SEBRING — The City Pier Beach remains closed today following the drowning Saturday afternoon of a 23-year-old man. Bobby Clark swam beyond the marked swimming area at the park and experienced a cramp before going under, police said. His body was recovered around 3 p.m. by emergency personnel divers. "It was a tragic event that happened this weekend," City Administrator Bob Hoffman said Monday. "We are still learning more about it and our hearts and prayers go out for the victim and the victim's family." ...more

June 9, 2008

Nick, We don't know each other, but we are both in similar situations with the media + a high degree of public scrutiny. If you are anything like me, I'm sure you receive tons of "fan mail" each day from total strangers who say pretty much anything you can think of. I just want you to know that you are not alone. And for what it is worth, I can sympathize with the dynamics of your case, esp. in light of the public. It's not us, Nick, but something "off" with society, that our situations garner more attention + print than the President, the election, or even an earthquake killing thousands. Nothing prepares you for nor prevents it; sensationalism. I have only been here 1 month in administrative confinement, due entirely to my case's "high profile status." I've honestly, not been following your case, except in hearing that our names are mentioned frequently on the news. Keep your head up and never lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel. You have more people support + pulling for you than you will ever know. I believe the character of an individual is measured over the long haul. And I have no doubt that you will rise above your current surroundings having experienced a personal inner growth known only to yourself in those many hours of isolation. You remain in my prayers, ...more

June 7, 2008

EDITOR'S NOTE: Jessica Castillo, 12, just finished the sixth grade at Cambridge Christian School in Tampa. She was chosen writer of the year by teacher Sharee Romaine, who wrote, "I wasn't planning to choose a writer of the year until this student's 'Heart of Christ' paper was turned in to me." ...more

June 7, 2008

The following is the text of a letter written by Stephanie Ragusa and addressed to Nick Hogan. ...more

June 6, 2008

There are so many critical issues in our country that must be expressed. We sometimes wonder if we are ever heard by our government and our official politicians? ...more

June 4, 2008

All children deserve a good home. That is the philosophy of Frank and Michaelle L. Balogh. The Baloghs have already adopted one child from Taiwan and are preparing to adopt two more. ...more

May 28, 2008

I am writing this letter in hopes that it will reach all of the special people who were there for Bill and I during our journey together. Our family could not begin to tell everyone how much we appreciated all the special words of encouragement, prayers, cards, or anything you did to help carry us along. Here is a poem that says it all. Perhaps you sent a lovely card, or sat quietly in a chair Perhaps you sent a floral piece, if so we saw it there Perhaps you spoke the kindest words, as any friend could say Perhaps you were not there at all, just thought of us that day. Whatever you did to console our hearts We thank you so much whatever the part. ...more

May 2, 2008

I would like to publicly thank everyone for all their prayers and best wishes after my recent accident. I would also like to make a special request: a young man arrived on the scene and loaned me a U.S. Marine fatigue jacket. I would like to return this to him, but I did not get his name. Would this good samaritan please contact me so that I can thank you and return your jacket? The phone number is 1-800-445-8429 ...more

February 25, 2008

TAMPA - The news so far is disappointing on the recovery of Channel 10 weatherman Dick Fletcher, who suffered a stroke Monday, the station says on its Web site. ...more

February 21, 2008

Thank you to everyone throughout Highlands County who donated to my clients in the ACTS Housing program. Paul has received plenty of furniture thanks to all of you. Many of my other clients received furniture and housing items as well. ...more

February 21, 2008