at least until about a dozen police showed up one morning late last month and took what few belongings the people owned. ...more

October 20, 2007

Nothing says 'trick or treat' quite like a severed hand and foot roasting on a barbecue grill. And nothing warms the mischievous Halloween heart as much as - Are you sitting down? - a high-tech, remote control whoopee cushion. ...more

October 11, 2007

China's state media on Monday welcomed U.S. toy maker Mattel's apology over its recalls of Chinese-made toys, saying that although overdue it should help restore the country's sullied export reputation. ...more

September 25, 2007

Over the years, it has been seen as both a sleeping giant and a thorn in the city's side. ...more

September 17, 2007

This letter is in response to Mr. Royce's comments in regard to an appointed superintendent instead of an elected superintendent. By the tone of your comments, Mr. Royce, it sounds as though you might be vying for Wally Cox's job. You are sure quick to give your misinformed opinion. All of Highlands County's schools are not "D" schools. Our school educators and employees take a lot of pride in the hard work it takes to educate this county's children. Frankly, I think people are sick and tired of hearing misinformed people such as yourself spout false accusations. Although Mr. Cox has quite the impressive credentials, excellent reputation, years of experience in the system and apparently the support of Highlands County schools and families, you and your coffee buddy Mr. Tuck sound like two wanna-bes running for the CEO of the Highlands County School District. ...more

September 16, 2007

Should the superintendent of Highlands County Schools be elected or appointed? If you own or operate a local business (builder, Realtor, restaurant, etc.) If you are a practicing professional, if you depend on the growth and prosperity of our county for your livelihood, or you are a parent with children in our public schools, you should be concerned that some of our local public schools have consistently been graded D schools. Do potential new residents decide not to locate in Highlands County because of the reputation (deserved or not) of some of our schools? Have businesses that could provide quality jobs to our area decided not to locate in Highlands County fearing that they could not attract qualified employees (with school aged children) because of the reputation of some of our public schools? ...more

September 16, 2007

I agree with Andy Tuck's suggestion that the school superintendent be selected rather than elected. School administration is a profession with a complex skills set. We are best served by someone who meets the job's requirements and has specific experience related to our current needs e.g. upgrading FCAT scores. Because of its locale and reputation, Highlands County would attract a number of qualified candidates, most likely successful superintendents from smaller districts seeking career advancement, which is generally tied to the size of the operation. ...more

September 14, 2007