Record plunges in state revenue are punching a $1.5 billion hole in the state budget this fiscal year, triggering emergency authority for Gov. Charlie Crist to dig into state reserves. ...more

August 16, 2008

As Floridians gear up to vote in this November's presidential election, everyone is talking about how Iraq, Afghanistan, energy prices and health care will affect our nation over the next four years. ...more

August 16, 2008

Inflation is running at the fastest pace in 17 years, the job market is under further strain and foreclosure filings are surging. ...more

August 15, 2008

NEW PORT RICHEY -- In an era of high energy prices, Pasco County officials are checking out a Pinellas firm that converts sewage into a natural gas substitute that can power alternative-fuel cars or even run arc welders. ...more

August 6, 2008

Ted Johns of New Port Richey offers the unbelievable tale of "Schmeron" and "Schmaliburton." ...more

August 6, 2008

Rising prices, falling home values, stagnant wages and tight credit. It's a potent combination that has struck the American consumer hard. ...more

August 5, 2008

The prospects for a quick economic recovery dimmed Thursday, with new data showing the economy grew at a slower-than-expected rate this spring despite some oomph from tax rebate checks - and actually shrank late last year. ...more

August 1, 2008

Christmas in July? Maybe not a bad idea this year. Retailers are already talking about price increases of up to 15 percent this year on holiday goods, from staples like tree ornaments and toys to luxury gifts like European handbags and clothing. The main cause? It's the same old chestnut, soaring energy prices. ...more

July 31, 2008

Costco Wholesale Corp., which had been one of the few bright spots in retailing, said Wednesday that its earnings will miss Wall Street expectations, as it struggles with higher energy costs that are crimping its bottom line. ...more

July 24, 2008

Only a month ago, sizzling commodities prices seemed destined to soar higher with record-breaking rallies in crude oil and corn. But the boom appears to be taking a breather, cooled by a weakening economy and a milder Mother Nature. ...more

July 24, 2008