Everybody loves a hometown guy, especially when it comes to hometown politics. That's why you can't help but want to chuck Jack Mariano amiably on the chin - ya big lug, ya - whenever he goes all parochial on behalf of hyper-local issues. ...more

November 8, 2009

I am strongly opposed to any creation of new taxing districts, a.k.a. taxing methods such as MTSU, to specialize the collection of taxes for EMS, countywide fire rescue, public schools or any such purpose. ...more

April 23, 2009

With the reduction in revenue and property values during the current economic downturn, the Pasco County Commission will be required this summer to make some tough decisions as to what services we will offer next year, the level of service to be provided and how we will pay for those services. Based on letters to the editor, e-mails and one-on-one conversations with residents, we realize we need to do a better job of explaining to our citizens the budget decision process. ...more

March 29, 2009

Hillsborough County is facing a budget deficit of at least $110 million in fiscal year 2010 due, in large part, to reduced property tax revenue. ...more

March 19, 2009

Hillsborough County is facing a budget deficit of at least $110 million in fiscal year 2010 due, in large part, to reduced property tax revenue. ...more

March 18, 2009

Miami and Miami-Dade County commissioners are scheduled to cast their final votes Friday on a proposal for a retractable-roof, $515 million stadium in Miami's blighted Little Havana neighborhood. It will be the last step before groundbreaking for the stadium, which is projected to open in 2012. ...more

February 12, 2009

The Highlands County Tourist Development Council on Thursday recommended giving up to $8,000 in tourist tax money for two fishing tournaments, but tabled a request for more than $10,000 for the annual Run to the Heartland motorcycle event. ...more

January 11, 2009

The Pasco Tourist Development Council will ring in a new year with a new chairwoman, Commissioner Pat Mulieri. ...more

January 7, 2009

Highlands County tourism officials want to learn more about the people who travel here, and they have put together a 15-question survey to help them get the information. ...more

September 21, 2008

The Tampa Bay region offers residents plenty of sports to watch, indoors and out. So it's only fair we get more chances to play, too. ...more

August 16, 2008