Hundreds of workers at the St. Pete Times Forum got an unwelcome surprise this morning when they picked up their paychecks: Included was a note from management saying it won't offer free employee parking starting March 1. ...more

February 13, 2009

Fire commissioners recently agreed not to get involved in the district's hiring process. ...more

February 12, 2009

A study commissioned by the Tampa Bay Rays determined that baseball fans from beyond Tampa Bay generate between $136.5 million and $212.5 million in direct tourism expenditures annually, while attendance has grown over the past three years. ...more

February 11, 2009

A memorial service was held for Caylee Anthony two months after the slain Florida toddler's remains were discovered in woods near where she lived with her mother and grandparents. ...more

February 10, 2009

Frosty temperatures didn't deter crowds of determined fairgoers who bundled up in hats and gloves for opening day at the Florida State Fair on Thursday. Attendance was light, possibly due to the chilly temperatures, but fair workers expect a busy weekend. Before the gates opened, law enforcement officers tried their skills at water-gun races and ping pong-ball tosses, checking for foul play along the midway to ensure no cheating. The fair is open through Feb. 16, offering visitors thrill rides, livestock exhibits, traditional fair food and headline entertainment. The fairgrounds is at 4800 U.S. 301 N., Tampa. Gates open daily at 9 a.m. Closing times and ticket prices vary. For details, go to www.floridastatefair.com or call (813) 621-7821. ...more

February 6, 2009

Universal Orlando is cutting back some attractions in its two-park Florida resort to save money. ...more

February 5, 2009

I have to admit I was more than a little dismayed at the lack of attendance at the Jan.17 performance of "Don't Drink the Water" performed at the Highlands Little Theatre by local talent. All the people out there griping about nothing to do in the area just don't listen. For the past number of years, I have been giving praise to the actors and actresses at the Highlands Little Theatre, as well as the behind-the-scene people who do so much. The set design does not arrange itself, the costumes do not just jump on the cast, the lines don't just flow out of their mouths, the lighting doesn't just happen, the cast just don't happen to enter, exit and so forth at the right time. It takes hours of work! So it was heartbreaking to see the number of empty seats in the theater as if people just don't care. ...more

January 27, 2009

A high-end movie theater coming to Hyde Park wants to offer cocktails and appetizers with movies, a proposal that will require them to get a liquor permit. ...more

January 20, 2009

PLANT CITY The Florida Strawberry Festival ranked 35th among the top 50 largest fairs in North America, a trade Web site said. ...more

December 24, 2008

The academic success of children rides on their love of learning. ...more

December 22, 2008