The fields of Balkh province in northern Afghanistan were free of opium poppies this year, a success touted often by Afghan and international officials. But one look at Mohammad Alam's fields uncovers an emerging drug problem. ...more

November 28, 2007

Joe Torre knew they didn't want him back. Even in those final few moments, as he sat in George Steinbrenner's office at Legends Field and listened to the Yankees' offer, he hoped there was a way he could stay on as manager. ...more

October 20, 2007

I find the news that our Highlands County government is going into business very disturbing. Isn't the role of the county government to promote an economic base for our community and to encourage investment by the private sector? ...more

October 18, 2007

LAND O' LAKES - The federal No Child Left Behind Act is looming larger than ever in Pasco County as two elementary schools face the possibility of a major restructuring that could increase district oversight of their operations and affect the jobs of teachers and principals. ...more

October 16, 2007

There's no doubt that Avon Park's city elections next month are crucial to the town. All the more reason for voters to scrutinize the candidates –– even though there are quite a bushful of them –– and come out and vote. A proposed ordinance that would have fined businesses and landlords who catered to illegal immigrants may have set the tone for some candidates to seek office, but growth remains the overarching issue for the city. Voters should look for candidates who can help Avon Park navigate some of these growth problems, at a time when the rest of the county seems to be growing at a faster rate and tougher challenges coming from Tallahassee lie ahead. ...more

October 15, 2007

Hearing the cries of protest about her suggestion that every newborn get $5,000, Sen. Hillary Clinton dropped the baby-bond idea and now advocates a more sensible reform: more retirement savings for all adults. ...more

October 11, 2007

Melinda Sheer, 39, Carrollwood Height: 5-foot-4 Starting weight: 145 Current weight: 128 ...more

September 27, 2007

Even with the occasional bumps in the road, Al Reyes appreciates how good he has had it this season. ...more

September 23, 2007

Improving home studies, staff training and children's attendance at hearings are some of the common goals that officials across Florida have set for enhancing child dependency procedures. ...more

September 16, 2007

"Buyers could hardly find a better time to buy," says Jeff Shaw, president of Century 21 Shaw Realty Group. ...more

September 16, 2007