Ten-year-old Drew Buckley loves ballet so much that she wants other kids to feel the excitement — starting with the tips of their toes. ...more

January 13, 2010

The long, steady holiday build-up from just before Halloween has culminated in the gift-giving of Christmas. I hope everyone got (and gave) what they wanted, even as purse strings remain tight and the economic outlook is uncertain. ...more

January 1, 2010

So President Barack Obama thinks he bowls like a competitor in the Special Olympics? ...more

March 21, 2009

So President Barack Obama thinks he bowls like a competitor in the Special Olympics? ...more

March 20, 2009

Donna Byrne's story inspires other horse owners to help her with lodging, food and even new shoes for her horses. ...more

February 11, 2009

Donna Byrne lost her job in Arcadia a couple of months ago, so she decided to go to Texas – on horseback. ...more

February 10, 2009

John Hnilica has a lot of sole in his soul. The owner of Ed's Shoe Repair keeps alive a 28-year-old family tradition started by his retired dad, whose first name still graces the sign for the Port Richey store. Hnilica is approaching his 20th anniversary next year of taking over the family business. ...more

January 9, 2009

When I was little, I wanted a troll for Christmas. It wasn't just me; my brothers wanted one, too. Only problem was our mom hated trolls; she thought they were ugly and pointless. And, in the lean years after her divorce, I'm sure she thought trolls were a luxury in a household constantly in need of new shoes and mittens and hats for three growing children. ...more

December 25, 2008

John Hnilica has a lot of sole in his soul. The owner of Ed's Shoe Repair keeps alive a 28-year-old family tradition started by his retired dad, whose first name still graces the sign for the Port Richey store. Hnilica is approaching his 20th anniversary next year of taking over the family business. ...more

December 24, 2008

Imagine if a front-page article smearing your good name appeared in one of the biggest newspapers in the country. In place of proof, the newspaper substituted rumor and innuendo supplied by anonymous sources to support the outrageous allegation that you may have been unfaithful to your spouse and may have shamed the profession in which you have spent a lifetime building a reputation. Can you imagine what your reaction to such character assassination would be? ...more

February 25, 2008