The news story regarding the school district financial rating was interesting. I really liked the statement made by the Asst. Superintendent of Business Operations Mike Averyt, "What hurts the most was the legislature when they took our millage away." I have news for you Mr. Averyt, the legislature didn't take your money, that money belongs to the taxpayers. As a taxpayer, I don't feel overly compelled to ever see that money restored until some of the fat is cut out of the Highlands County School District. ...more

December 27, 2009

The developers of the Venus ranch land say there is a need for a law enforcement/military live fire training center in the south end of the county. Law enforcement and military personal already have a live fire training center on the north end of the county (the Avon Park Bombing and Gunnery Range). ...more

October 6, 2009

Well, we have yet another government entity crying for a tax increase. Now it is the school system. ...more

July 16, 2009

Highlands County Administrator Michael Wright was quick to mention an increase in the millage rate from 7.1 mills to 8 mills to balance the county budget. This would be adding insult to injury for homeowners in Highlands County. ...more

July 7, 2009

Commissioner Jeff Carlson is absolutely right when he said the county libraries have become repositories of pop culture instead of actual libraries. ...more

June 12, 2009

Gulf offensive coordinator Brian Wright was only looking for a few things heading into spring football practice - a backup quarterback and help on the offensive line. ...more

May 29, 2009

The news story on March 7 regarding the organized theft of baby formula provides an interesting commentary on the cost of crime. ...more

March 11, 2009

Mike Maroth faced major leaguer batters for the first time since 2007, and gave up two runs in two innings of the Toronto Blue Jays' 6-4 loss to Canada on Tuesday. ...more

March 3, 2009

TAMPA Dorothy Ford volunteered occasionally at Graham Elementary where her nieces and nephews attended. But she wanted to do more. "I was sitting at home getting fat, and I thought it was about time I got to doing something," said Ford, 68, who is retired. Through another volunteer at the school Ford learned of the foster grandparent program. It modestly reimburses volunteers, ranging in age from 60 to 93, who spend at least 20 hours a week helping in school classrooms, Head Start programs and shelters such as The Spring and Child Abuse Council. "It gives them the financial ability to volunteer," said Nancy McWilliams, Director of Community Relations for Seniors in Service Tampa Bay, which sponsors the program. ...more

February 18, 2009

Expanded Prep Summaries ...more

January 23, 2009