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County Beat

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  • Free park admission for library patrons http://countybeat.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11002/free-park-admission-for-library-patrons/ On the weekend of Sept. 10 through Sept. 12, you can get into any Florida state park for free by showing your library card, a library book or by donating a used family-oriented book.The promotion is in conjunction with International Literacy Day on Sept. 8 and National Library Card Sign-up Month.Also, from 9 a.m. to [...] Free park admission for library patrons
  • Tourism-related businesses to share ideas http://countybeat.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10999/tourism-related-businesses-to-share-ideas/ MANATEE COUNTY – Owners of restaurants, motels and other tourism-related businesses in Manatee are invited to a discussion about the latest trends and issues in their industry.The county's tourism bureau will host the forum at 3 p.m., Sept. 8, in County Commission chambers, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.To register to attend, call 729-9177, ext. 234, [...] Tourism-related businesses to share ideas
  • Teen Court training on Sept. 14 http://countybeat.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10996/teen-court-training-on-sept-14/ MANATEE COUNTY – Students ages 10 to 17 can participate in training for the Teen Court program at 5:15 p.m., Sept. 14, in the jury assembly room of the Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.Teens can participate as a prosecutor, defense attorney, baliff, juror or trial clerk. They review cases involving juveniles and make [...] Teen Court training on Sept. 14

Dateline Sarasota

Most Recent Topics
  • How much policing do the police need? http://datelinesarasota.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10267/how-much-policing-do-the-police-need/ City Commissioners will likely step in next week and settle a few debates over how far  reforms at the Sarasota Police Department should go.Six months of analysis and inspection at the department helped usher out former Police Chief Peter Abbott. Now the Commissioners will decide the fate of a half-dozen high-impact recommendations from a citizens [...] How much policing do the police need?
  • Baseball legal fees $91,000 so far http://datelinesarasota.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10264/baseball-legal-fees-91000-so-far/ The lawyer bills for most of the baseball trial  work have not arrived yet in the mail, but we can start the tally of baseball legal expenses at $91,000 and work our way up from there.The fees are one issue from the baseball trial that won't be settled with the judge's ruling last week, and [...] Baseball legal fees $91,000 so far
  • Panel's recommendations topic of police meeting http://datelinesarasota.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10256/interim-police-chief-to-speak-tonight/ Interim Police Chief Mike Hollaway will speak tonight at the NAACP general membership meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the North County Library, 2801 Newtown Boulevard.Hollaway, a 28-year veteran who has not yet decided whether he will apply to be police chief, will be discussing his plans for the department and the 62 recommendations of the city's [...] Panel's recommendations topic of police meeting

Eric Ernst's blog

Most Recent Topics
  • FWC bans fox, coyote pens http://ericernstsblog.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10052/fwc-bans-fox-coyote-pens/ In case you missed it, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission last week banned fox and coyote pens statewide.This really should come as no surprise. The practice, in which coyotes and foxes are released within fenced-in areas to be hunted, and often fatally attacked, by dogs, is hardly a sound approach to wildlife management.Critics [...] FWC bans fox, coyote pens
  • First Reagan Day dinner to feature Hasner http://ericernstsblog.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10049/first-reagan-day-dinner-to-feature-hasner/ At Florida State Law school, Adam Hasner was always the one wearing the attention-grabbing Republican hats and T-shirts.That's how Ron Filipkowski remembers him. So when it came time for Filipkowski to chose a speaker for the Republican Club of South Sarasota County's inaugural Reagan Day Dinner, he invited his old college classmate, now a state representative from [...] First Reagan Day dinner to feature Hasner
  • Scratch for cat catchers http://ericernstsblog.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10047/scratch-for-cat-catchers/ Here's an idea for Sarasota County. Reimburse the scores of volunteers who collect stray cats for spaying and neutering.The city of DeLand is doing it.According to a Daytona News-Journal article, the city has set aside $5,000 to reimburse animal lovers who until now have spent their own money to vaccinate, neuter and medically treat feral [...] Scratch for cat catchers

Everything Golf

Most Recent Topics
  • Sarasota native Scott Dunlap leads Nationwide Tour event http://everythinggolf.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10922/sarasota-native-scott-dunlap-leads-nationwide-tour-event/ Scott Dunlap, who grew up in Sarasota and was a local high school golf star and at the University of Florida, shot an opening-round 65 and is tied for the lead in the Mylan Classic tour event on the Nationwide Tour.If Dunlap wins, he would likely make his way back to the big show, the [...] Sarasota native Scott Dunlap leads Nationwide Tour event
  • A few super deals at area tracks http://everythinggolf.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10920/a-few-super-deals-at-area-tracks/ For the first time in my five years in Sarasota, the Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club is offering a special that makes it affordable to play the semi-private track.The deal being offered at Stoneybrook, located on Stoneybrook Boulevard off McIntosh Road, is one of several super deals out there these hot summer days.In the mornings [...] A few super deals at area tracks
  • Timely tips: Hitting out of deep, wet rough http://everythinggolf.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10914/timely-tips-hitting-out-of-deep-wet-rough/ With all this rain lately, one topic that gets a ton of chatter in my golf group is how to successfully hit out of the thick, wet rough that is present at nearly every area course these days.I suggested to a pal last week that my keys were to take more club, commit to swinging [...] Timely tips: Hitting out of deep, wet rough

Hurricane Report

Most Recent Topics
  • Earl intensifies further as it nears North Carolina http://hurricanereport.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10497/earl-intensifies-further-as-it-nears-north-carolina/ This time yesterday, Hurricane Earl looked like it had reached its peak intensity of 135 mph and was on its way down. But after dropping to a 125 mph Category 3 yesterday, the storm began to pick up more steam. By late afternoon it had resumed its 135 mph strength and it didn't stop there.Last [...] Earl intensifies further as it nears North Carolina
  • Tropical Storm Gaston forms; hurricane warnings for Earl extended http://hurricanereport.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10494/tropical-storm-gaston-forms-hurricane-warnings-for-earl-extended/ Tropical Storm Gaston has formed in the central Atlantic and is heading westward toward the Lesser Antilles.Meanwhile Earl has returned to Category 4 strength, producing 135 mph winds. Earl is a giant and dangerous storm with hurricane-force winds extending 90 miles from its eye. Tropical storm force winds stretch 200 miles. The storm poses a threat [...] Tropical Storm Gaston forms; hurricane warnings for Earl extended
  • Hurricane warning for east coast; new tropical depression forms http://hurricanereport.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10491/hurricane-warning-for-east-coast-new-tropical-depression-forms/ Coastal North Carolina to Delaware is under a hurricane warning as Hurricane Earl moves northward in the Atlantic. The National Hurricane Center issued the warning at 11 a.m. this morning. The onset of tropical stor-force winds are expected to begin somewhere within the warning area in a day and a half.Earl remains a large and powerful storm with [...] Hurricane warning for east coast; new tropical depression forms

Telling Stories

Most Recent Topics
  • Will GOP scandals benefit Democrat longshot Meek? http://tellingstories.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10190/will-gop-scandals-benefit-democrat-longshot-meek/ When Rep. Kendrick Meek of Miami emerged as the lone Democrat vying for Mel Martinez's vacated U.S. Senate seat, more than a few Democrats groaned.Surely the Democrats had a more formidable challenger, such as U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, from Broward County, who is perhaps the most influential member of Florida's entire Congressional  delegation.The counter-argument, [...] Will GOP scandals benefit Democrat longshot Meek?
  • Surprise team of Final Four is close to his heart http://tellingstories.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10182/surprise-team-of-final-four-is-close-to-his-heart/ What's the line about the closer you are to something, the bigger it seems? That's how I feel about the Butler Bulldogs reaching the NCAA Final Four.I grew up less than two miles from the Butler campus in Indianapolis. Well into my 20s, I used to sneak into Hinkle Fieldhouse (it wasn't hard) and play [...] Surprise team of Final Four is close to his heart
  • What's ahead for the Legislature http://tellingstories.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10181/whats-ahead-for-the-legislature/ The News Service of Florida:The House budget is expected to pass this Thursday " right around the midpoint of the session. The House will take up its budget for amendments on Wednesday, and so far, few floor amendments have been filed. The bill should then come up for a final vote on Thursday. That would [...] What's ahead for the Legislature

Tom Lyons -- The Blog

Most Recent Topics
  • New condo law may help lawyers find work? http://tomlyonstheblog.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10085/new-condo-law-may-help-lawyers-find-work/ My July 15 column spotlighted a new Florida law that has a Sarasota condo tenant trapped in a dispute between her landlord and the condo association. That new law is designed to help condo and homeowner associations collect assessments and fees when a unit owner won't pay them. Since July 1, it [...] New condo law may help lawyers find work?
  • All-American girl bests evil alien thugs, thanks to gun and baloney http://tomlyonstheblog.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10081/all-american-girl-bests-evil-alien-thugs-thanks-to-gun-and-baloney/ A very conservative and very pro-gun guy who frequently e-mails me just sent one heck of a story, of the sort sure to get lots of people's blood boiling. Boiling with anger at illegal aliens, and at the evil news media for making sure the story was kept quiet. But [...] All-American girl bests evil alien thugs, thanks to gun and baloney
  • More on the 'Mom dying, need gas' scam http://tomlyonstheblog.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10075/10075/ Many readers responded to the column about the scammer repeatedly seeking and getting gas money to visit her supposedly dying mother in Naples, and about the questionable belief, apparently common at the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, that it is not a crime to run this scam. Some readers have mentioned the [...] More on the 'Mom dying, need gas' scam

View from Longboat Key

Most Recent Topics
  • View from Longboat shouldn't include oil platforms http://viewfromlongboatkey.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10028/view-from-longboat-shouldnt-include-oil-platforms/ If ever there was an appropriate subject for a column headed “View From Longboat Key” it would be the remark State Rep. Keith Fitzgerald made at a CONA meeting the other night, that the No. 1, the prime spot being considered for a Gulf oil well should they be permitted off our shores, is exactly [...] View from Longboat shouldn't include oil platforms
  • We should keep an eye on Ida http://viewfromlongboatkey.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10023/we-should-keep-an-eye-on-ida/ Longboat's Town Mgr. Bruce  St. Denis has put out a storm alert on Tropical Storm Ida which I thought spelled out what we on the island can look for and should be ready for.Here are excerpts:“Although the storm's center is currently anticipated to pass offshore, local effects will be felt in the form of high [...] We should keep an eye on Ida
  • My recommendations, if LBK plan is Ok'd http://viewfromlongboatkey.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10018/my-recommendations-if-lbk-plan-is-okd/ View from Longboat KeySometimes headlines, while basically accurate, can be misleading. Such was the case on my Herald-Tribune column last week. 'My Recommendations'  read the headline on a column that was basically some reactions to testimony by one side of the dispute over the Longboat Key Club's proposed development at the south end of the [...] My recommendations, if LBK plan is Ok'd

Off the Page

Most Recent Topics
  • 'Mockingjay' comes out tomorrow http://offthepage.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10244/mockingjay-comes-out-tomorrow/ Fans of Suzanne Collins' masterful young-adult novel “The Hunger Games” and its sequel “Catching Fire” are eagerly awaiting the publication Tuesday of the final book in the trilogy.“Mockingjay” is its title.The book will bring to a close one of the most exciting stories published for young adults (and, let's be honest, those of us like [...] 'Mockingjay' comes out tomorrow
  • Mystery Florida: A Conference to Die For http://offthepage.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10242/mystery-florida-a-conference-to-die-for/ Mystery writers from around Florida are gathering today and Saturday at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota for the 6th annual “Mystery Florida: A Conference to Die For,” many of them with an eye to getting published and to picking the brains of those already successful.I spent an hour there this afternoon on a marketing panel, along [...] Mystery Florida: A Conference to Die For
  • The beginning of the end of the printed book? http://offthepage.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10240/the-beginning-of-the-end-of-the-printed-book/ Something amazing right here. Amazon says e-books outperformed printed books, and not in a small way. The beginning of the end of the printed book?

Beer Geek

Most Recent Topics
  • Brewpub coming to downtown Sarasota http://beergeek.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10776/brewpub-coming-to-downtown-sarasota/ Mad Crow Brewery and Grill will take over Rustic Grill Brewpub coming to downtown Sarasota
  • Two beer-food pairings today http://beergeek.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10784/two-beer-food-pairings-today/ An early start to the Labor Day weekend. Two beer-food pairings today
  • A beer challenge, and I got so close http://beergeek.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10780/a-beer-challenge-and-i-got-so-close/ Could I drink only Florida craft beer for a week? A beer challenge, and I got so close

emilyland

Most Recent Topics
  • Following Rhythm http://emilyland.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10355/following-rhythm/ Rhythm is a powerful means of affecting the physical energies. Following Rhythm
  • Mankiller Quote of The Day http://emilyland.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10345/mankiller-quote-of-the-day/ "I learned a long time ago that I can't control the challenges the creator sends my way, but I can control the way I think about them and deal with them," Mankiller Quote of The Day
  • A Vision for Anew You http://emilyland.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10337/a-vision-for-anew-you/ 'Rejoice because spring is in the air and you're beginning again' A Vision for Anew You

Capitol Comments

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  • Crist wants lawmakers to consider renewable energy as well as an oil drilling ban http://capitolcomments.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10344/crist-wants-lawmakers-to-consider-renewable-energy-as-well-as-an-oil-drilling-ban/             Gov. Charlie Crist said today a renewable energy package will also be part of an upcoming special session that will focus on a constitutional ban against oil drilling off Florida's coast.            Crist said he expects the session to occur in 'a couple of weeks,' with the primary aim being placing a constitutional amendment on [...] Crist wants lawmakers to consider renewable energy as well as an oil drilling ban
  • Crist has privacy concerns about the abortion bill http://capitolcomments.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10340/crist-has-privacy-concerns-about-the-abortion-bill/             Gov. Charlie Crist said today he has 'concerns' about an abortion bill passed on the last day of the 2010 Legislature.            The bill would require women seeking an abortion in their first trimester to pay for an ultrasound and view the image unless they can prove they were a victim of rape, incest or [...] Crist has privacy concerns about the abortion bill
  • Crist will make a Senate decision on Thursday http://capitolcomments.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10336/crist-will-make-a-senate-decision-on-thursday/             The drama over Gov. Charlie Crist's political future will likely end Thursday.            Crist said today he wants to make a decision on the U.S. Senate race a day ahead of the scheduled end of the annual legislative session on Friday. The governor's options include: remain in the Republican primary and face former House Speaker [...] Crist will make a Senate decision on Thursday

Political Insider

Most Recent Topics
  • Chiles campaign confirms exit http://politicalinsider.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11493/chiles-campaign-confirms-exit/ Independent candidate for governor Lawton 'Bud' Chiles will drop out of the race for governor tomorrow at a press conference in Tallahassee, his campaign confirmed within the hour.Yesterday sources close to the campaign said Chiles was planning to withdraw, but the campaign would not confirm the rumor until this morning.'Lawton 'Bud' Chiles will hold a [...] Chiles campaign confirms exit
  • Late voters were better for Scott than many expected http://politicalinsider.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11491/late-voters-were-better-for-scott-than-many-expected/ There was an expectation towards the end of the Republican Primary for governor that Attorney General Bill McCollum had turned the tables late on Rick Scott.As the thinking went, Scott did well with absentee and early voters, while McCollum surged late and was expected to pick up more votes on Election Day. It was based [...] Late voters were better for Scott than many expected
  • Buchanan's net worth climbs http://politicalinsider.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11483/buchanans-net-worth-climbs/ The national economy may be bad, but U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan's bottomline is getting better.Buchanan's net worth jumped about $3 million since last year, according to personal financial disclosure reports filed with the U.S. House of Representatives. Buchanan now has a net worth estimated at $53.5 million, which makes him the 8th richest member of [...] Buchanan's net worth climbs

Real Estate Today

Most Recent Topics
  • A note of optimism http://realestatetoday.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11528/a-note-of-optimism/ Right about now, homeowners can use a reason, any reason, to be optimistic about the future of the real estate market.Once such reason comes from Walt Molony, a spokesman for the National Association of Realtors.He notes, “To accommodate household growth and units lost through age and obsolescence, we need about 1.4 million housing starts per year.”We [...] A note of optimism
  • Home-sales figures hardly surprising http://realestatetoday.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11523/home-sales-figures-hardly-surprising/ For once the experts got it right.  The home-buyer tax credits proved to be a narcotic for the real estate market.The news today that July sales fell by big percentages across the country shows that the credits just bunched up buyers at the closing table, rather than letting them proceed at an orderly pace over several [...] Home-sales figures hardly surprising
  • Reintroducing The Founders Club http://realestatetoday.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11511/reintroducing-the-founders-club/ The concept of re-introducing upscale real estate developments to the market is becoming a trend.A few weeks after Barbara Mei of Surfside Properties “re-introduced” the Beau Ciel condominium, built in 2003 on Sarasota's bayfront, with a mid-summer soiree in the elegant gathering room, London Bay Homes is doing the same thing with The Founders Club, which [...] Reintroducing The Founders Club

Maff's Memos

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  • MLB Network to broadcast spring games http://maffsmemos.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10800/mlb-network-to-broadcast-spring-games/ Major League Baseball Network will broadcast 78 games, including four involving Tampa Bay and Pittsburgh and three with Baltimore.Here's the complete schedule:March 21 p.m.* Atlanta Braves @ New York MetsMarch 31 p.m.* Pittsburgh Pirates @ New York YankeesMarch 41 p.m.* St. Louis Cardinals [...] MLB Network to broadcast spring games
  • Rays Aybar out with sore wrist http://maffsmemos.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10796/rays-aybar-out-with-sore-wrist/ Tampa Bay INF Willy Aybar will not hit for a week because of a sore wrist suffered during winter ball.Aybar said he injured the wrist on a check swing.He is wearing a brace.The Rays hitters took live batting practice against their pitchers on the field for the first time. Rays Aybar out with sore wrist
  • Hey, get your ice cream Saturday http://maffsmemos.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10790/hey-get-your-ice-cream-saturday/ Baseball and ice cream will be the flavor Saturday at Charlotte Sports Park. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Charlotte Sports Park, the Rays will hold an Ice Cream Social for fans. Admission and parking are free.Tampa Bay players will take batting practice on the stadium field from 11:20 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Following [...] Hey, get your ice cream Saturday

T.B.'s Buc Shots

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  • 'Huggy' has got it made http://bucshots.blogs.heraldtribune.com/14969/huggy-has-got-it-made/ TAMPA _ Kareem Huggins is going to make the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' 53-man roster. The first-year running back has earned it, with those two explosive runs in the first preseason game in Miami, that set him on his way to becoming the preseason leading rusher of the Buccaneers. He's held his ground in the last two preseason games [...] 'Huggy' has got it made
  • Is Clayton next to go? http://bucshots.blogs.heraldtribune.com/14931/is-clayton-next-to-go/  TAMPA _ Now might not be the best time to be Michael Clayton. It was fine when he was tearing it up as a rookie in 2004. Of course, it was great to be him, when he signed that nearly $26 million, five-year contract before the 2009 season, pocketing $10 million guaranteed from the Buccaneers.But since then, uh, [...] Is Clayton next to go?
  • NFL suspends Talib for one game http://bucshots.blogs.heraldtribune.com/14913/nfl-suspends-talib-for-one-game/ TAMPA _ Tampa Bay cornerback Aqib Talib has been suspended for one game by the National Football League and fined one additional game check for violating the NFL Personal Conduct policy. The punishment announced Tuesday afternoon, was handed down for Talib's involvement in an altercation with a cab driver last August. The former 2008 first-round draft pick, allegedly drunk and [...] NFL suspends Talib for one game

Crime and Courts

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  • For gangbanger, a risky decision http://crimeandcourts.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10143/for-gangbanger-a-risky-decision/ http://crimeandcourts.blogs.heraldtribune.com/files/2010/06/Deandre-150x150.jpg DeAndre Tunstall was considered one of the most violent young men in Newtown, known as the enforcer of a notorious street gang and charged with murdering a young U.S. Marine reservist.Tunstall, 20, was scheduled to plead guilty Friday morning to murder and be sentenced lightly " 25 years in prison when he could have been [...] For gangbanger, a risky decision
  • George Lopez and the sexting teacher http://crimeandcourts.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10118/george-lopez-and-the-sexting-teacher/ http://crimeandcourts.blogs.heraldtribune.com/files/2010/05/george-lopez-51-150x150.jpg The other night, my girlfriend and I were watching George Lopez on Nickelodeon.We watch Lopez mostly with my children, who love it because it means they are up past bed time and because George's mom, Benny, is so mean.On the last episode, a sex offender named “Chris” moved into the neighborhood after being jailed for [...] George Lopez and the sexting teacher
  • 'It's Newtown. You hear everything.' http://crimeandcourts.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10114/%e2%80%98it%e2%80%99s-newtown-you-hear-everything-%e2%80%99/ I don't know if this means everything or not:On Saturday, I was over near The Courts in Newtown looking for a guy who knew a guy who was involved in a deadly shooting.A tan Caprice followed me.From King to Osprey to 21st and over to The Courts, slowing at stop signs until he rolled down [...] 'It's Newtown. You hear everything.'

De Void

Most Recent Topics
  • Mighty Casey has struck out http://devoid.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11152/mighty-casey-has-struck-out/ A former NASA spaceflight engineer and long-time analyst for NBC, James Oberg occupies a unique position as an American opinion-shaper. His conversational command of the hardware, celestial mechanics and foreign intrigues on the high frontier " and his ability to sum it all up in layman's language " make his perspectives invaluable for cutting through [...] Mighty Casey has struck out
  • Any momentum out there? http://devoid.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11145/any-momentum-out-there/ http://devoid.blogs.heraldtribune.com/files/2010/08/corporate1-300x266.jpg Hmm. More than two weeks have passed since the release of Leslie Kean's 'UFOs: Generals, Pilots and Government Officials Go On the Record,' the most ambitious attempt to kick-start a national dialogue on this issue in a generation. Let's review the media reception:Six days after publication, MSNBC featured an online display of " oh. Another [...] Any momentum out there?
  • The endless memory-metal intrigues http://devoid.blogs.heraldtribune.com/11130/the-endless-memory-metal-intrigues/ http://devoid.blogs.heraldtribune.com/files/2010/08/mystery-300x225.jpg Who knew Phil Klass might've actually been onto something in his July 1, 1994, 'Skeptics Online Newsletter'? That's when Klass, an Aviation Week reporter who died in 2005 without ever having met a UFO case he couldn't explain away, urged the General Accounting Office to investigate Battelle Memorial Institute's connections to alleged Roswell UFO debris.At [...] The endless memory-metal intrigues

From the Editors

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  • Drywall coverage cited by Loeb journalism awards http://fromtheeditors.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10081/h-t-drywall-coverage-cited-by-loeb-journalism-awards/ Herald-Tribune business reporter Aaron Kessler has been named a national finalist in the Gerald Loeb Awards, which recognize excellence in business and economics reporting.Kessler was cited in the beat writing category for his coverage of contaminated Chinese drywall. The other finalists in the category are The New York Times, the Los Angeles Times and Cnet.Through [...] Drywall coverage cited by Loeb journalism awards
  • Flipping Fraud wins national Scripps Howard award http://fromtheeditors.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10073/flipping-fraud-wins-national-scripps-howard-award/ The Herald-Tribune investigation of real estate flipping fraud won the national Scripps Howard award for business/economics reporting, the Scripps Howard Foundation announced today.Herald-Tribune reporters Michael Braga, Chris Davis and Matthew Doig spent a year gathering and reviewing nearly 19 million Florida real estate transactions for signs of fraud. They uncovered $10 billion in suspicious property [...] Flipping Fraud wins national Scripps Howard award
  • Why does Heather Dunhill's column keep moving? http://fromtheeditors.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10061/why-does-heather-dunhills-column-keep-moving/ A reader writes: “As a long time resident of Sarasota (over 20 years) I have come to appreciate reading, first Marjorie North's, and now Heather Dunhill's column. It is with great pleasure that I open the paper and read her column and look at the pictures from the various events that she has attended. …”But [...] Why does Heather Dunhill's column keep moving?

Legal-Ease

Most Recent Topics
  • NEW: Judge's order fining foreclosure law firm http://legal-ease.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10520/new-judges-order-fining-foreclosure-law-firm/ http://legal-ease.blogs.heraldtribune.com/files/2010/09/order1-300x269.jpg I wrote earlier this week about Manatee County circuit judge who singled out a Fort Lauderdale foreclosure firm, and leveling a $49,000 fine for scheduling hearings and then not showing up in court. Circuit Judge Janette Dunnigan has now issued her order, found below:The order issued quickly after Monday's hearing, and is important because it starts [...] NEW: Judge's order fining foreclosure law firm
  • SRQ Elections Chief: Lawsuits part of the job http://legal-ease.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10512/srq-elections-chief-lawsuits-part-of-the-job/ With one charter review board promising to file a lawsuit against Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Kathy Dent, the elections chief said the law is on her side. Still, Dent's office just finished a four-year legal battle over elections law in the county, and this was the first election since that litigation ended.Here's the story [...] SRQ Elections Chief: Lawsuits part of the job
  • Judge trapped in elevator http://legal-ease.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10510/judge-trapped-in-elevator/ SARASOTA COUNTY " A judge was stuck in an elevator at the Sarasota judicial center for more than 30 mintues Monday morning.Several foreclosure hearings scheduled for 9:30 a.m. were cancelled after Magistrate Deborah Bailey could not get off the elevator to go to her 5th floor courtroom.Bailey said the elevator car went up to the [...] Judge trapped in elevator

School Matters

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  • Southeast High team wins Formula 1 nationals http://schoolmatters.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10600/southeast-high-team-wins-formula-1-nationals/ A team of Five Southeast High School students triumphed Thursday in the Formula One (F1) In Schools National Championships held at the Baltimore Convention Center. The team also won the Fast Time and Judge's Choice awards.F1 In Schools is an international event for middle and High School students to design and manufacture identical, miniature, CO2-powered balsa wood F1 race cars.The [...] Southeast High team wins Formula 1 nationals
  • State releases FCAT scores http://schoolmatters.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10598/state-releases-fcat-scores/ After years of steady gains, elementary school students are losing some ground in their reading and math performance on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test.Scores released this morning show that Florida fourth- and fifth-graders lost ground in both subjects. The percentage of students reading at grade level dropped one percentage point at both grade levels. In [...] State releases FCAT scores
  • Still waiting for FCAT http://schoolmatters.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10592/still-waiting-for-fcat/ The Florida Department of Education has asked testing contractor Pearson for $3 million in penalty fees for missing target dates for delivering Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test scores.And that major blow to the company checkbook is only for missing third grade reading and math 10th grade retake result deadlines. Pearson may also face penalties for missed deadlines for reading and math for [...] Still waiting for FCAT

Venice Views

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  • Weather cancels Nokomis Beach Bash http://veniceviews.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10426/weather-cancels-nokomis-beach-bash/ It's a Cry'n Shame we won't be hearing the Cry'n Shame at the Nokomis Beach Pavilion today.Hundreds were expected for the First Annual Nokomis Beach Bash sponsored by Sertoma Club of Venice, Sarasota County and Friends of Sarasota County Parks. Landshark Lager was going to be out there selling beer and I heard something about [...] Weather cancels Nokomis Beach Bash
  • Airplane dreams and airport realities http://veniceviews.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10405/airplane-dreams-and-airport-realities/ On my way into work this morning, I sensed Witchcraft and longed to be in the air.Yesterday, aboard the world's only flying B-24 Liberator, Witchcraft, I flew from Ft. Myers to Venice and experienced a bit of what it felt like to be a bomber pilot (and a rock star, with the throngs of adoring [...] Airplane dreams and airport realities
  • Hey brother, can you spare an orange? http://veniceviews.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10396/hey-brother-can-you-spare-an-orange/ The cold snap may have devastated citrus crops across the state but it seems to have had the opposite effect on my neighbors' trees.On my morning trots with Bella, our border collie, I see trees pregnant with luscious oranges and grapefruits. Below, blankets of fallen and rotting fruit.No one seems to be in a hurry [...] Hey brother, can you spare an orange?

A&E

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  • Conservatory auditions go to the dogs http://aande.blogs.heraldtribune.com/12800/conservatory-auditions-go-to-the-dogs/ Do you have a dog that wants to be a star?The FSU/Asolo Conservatory is seeking a barking diva (who can follow stage directions) for its fall production of Shakespeare's 'The Two Gentlemen of Verona,' which runs Nov. 2-21.Director Greg Leaming, who also runs the graduate acting program, said he ideally wants a 'a big, huge, [...] Conservatory auditions go to the dogs
  • 'Sylvia' proves treat for dogs, too http://aande.blogs.heraldtribune.com/12798/sylvia-proves-treat-for-dogs-too/ Dog lovers came out in force during the run of 'Sylvia' at Florida Studio Theatre, and they provided some help to Humane Society of Sarasota County. A.R. Gurney's comedy is about how a stray dog comes between a man and his wife.Along with The New Barker magazine and Wet Noses Boutique, FST collected donations of [...] 'Sylvia' proves treat for dogs, too
  • Suncoast Chorale names new director http://aande.blogs.heraldtribune.com/12796/suncoast-chorale-names-new-director/ The Suncoast Chorale, a vocal group based in Englewood, has a new executive director.The organization has named Lawrence Bobo to the post. Bobo previously served as a sales executive with Healthcare almanac and ServData, Inc. and various positions with the non-profit Center for Health Technologies in Miami.'Larry's musical experience comes in the form of sound [...] Suncoast Chorale names new director

4-H For You

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  • 4-H at the Fair 2010 http://4-hforyou.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10073/4-h-at-the-fair-2010/ The Sarasota County Fair had another successful year of rides, exhibits, food, and 4-H. Close to half of the fair's exhibits are 4-H or 4-H related. There's the Arts and Crafts Mini Building, Large Animal Barn, Small Animal Barn, Plant Tent, 4-H Elephant Ear Booth, and Agriculture/Dairy tent " all which are run by 4-H [...] 4-H at the Fair 2010
  • SRTLC, A Trip to Tennessee http://4-hforyou.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10060/srtlc-a-trip-to-tennessee/ On October 8th at the beautiful 4-H camp of Crossville Tennessee, 4-H members from the southern region of the USA met for 3 days of leadership, learning, and fun. This is the 4th successful year of SRTLC – Southern Region Teen Leadership Conference. The goal of the program is to have senior 4-H members come [...] SRTLC, A Trip to Tennessee
  • National 4-H Week http://4-hforyou.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10056/national-4-h-week/ Happy National 4-H Week!Oct. 4-10, we will be celebrating the many years of accomplishment and service the 4-H organization has provided. Oct. 6 will be the Sarasota County's Annual Awards and Recognition Night.On Oct. 13, 4-H will be recognized at the County Commission meeting with a proclamation at 9:00am.Be sure to watch on Access Sarasota! National 4-H Week

Explore Your Sarasota

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  • Stop laboring, start playing Friday http://exploreyoursarasota.blogs.heraldtribune.com/12104/stop-laboring-start-playing-friday/ When the work whistle blows at the end of the day Friday, stop laboring and start celebrating the long Labor Day Holiday Weekend!~ Find more events, attractions and hot spots on YourSarasota.com. ~Here's a list our team has assembled of events taking place all around Your Sarasota September 3 – 6, 2010:Friday 9.3 ~ Music [...] Stop laboring, start playing Friday
  • Mangez-vous de la quiche? http://exploreyoursarasota.blogs.heraldtribune.com/12004/mangez-vous-la-quiche/ Do you eat quiche? I do. And fortunately, there are beaucoup choices in Your Sarasota.~ Read Abby Weingarten's full report: Quiche niches ~Some might consider it just breakfast fare, but there's no harm in grabbing a slice of French “egg pie” during the lunch hour, too.  Bon appétit!Carr's Corner Café ~ 3025 N. Tamiami Trail, [...] Mangez-vous de la quiche?
  • Music, Beer and Play Fests fill weekend http://exploreyoursarasota.blogs.heraldtribune.com/12072/music-beer-and-play-fests-fill-weekend/ This weekend brings a variety of entertainment options to Your Sarasota from Friday through Sunday, August 27-29.Find more fun events on YourSarasota.com at Hot This Weekend!Here are a few Fests to get your weekend rolling:FridayFest on the Bay ~ Friday at the Van WezelThe Big-Z Band brings its soul-pop sounds to this free monthly fest [...] Music, Beer and Play Fests fill weekend

Legislature Today

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  • Tampa gets 2012 Republican National Convention http://legislaturetoday.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10110/report-tampa-gets-2012-republican-national-convention/ For the first time in 40 years, Florida will be hosting a presidential national convention.Tampa was selected this afternoon as the site for the 2012 GOP Convention. It is the first time a national convention has been held in Southwest Florida and the first time for Florida since Miami was the site for both Republicans [...] Tampa gets 2012 Republican National Convention
  • Crist declare drilling off Florida is dead http://legislaturetoday.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10109/crist-declare-drilling-off-florida-is-dead/ The News Service of Florida reports:Gov. Charlie Crist declared the issue of drilling off the Florida coast effectively dead Monday as he monitored the latest news surrounding an oil spill caused by an explosion on a BP rig last month.“It hasn't happened in Florida, but it happened in Louisiana and we may suffer as a [...] Crist declare drilling off Florida is dead
  • Final day of legislative session promises drama http://legislaturetoday.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10108/final-day-of-legislative-session-promises-drama/ The News Service of Florida reports:BUDGET: Both the House and Senate are expected to pass the $70 billion budget today. A vote can't happen until around 3 p.m. because of the 72-hour cooling off period. Passing a spending plan is the only thing that the Legislature must do, by law, every year. HOUSE IN SESSION: [...] Final day of legislative session promises drama

Grand Openings

Most Recent Topics
  • Mutt Management Inc., 24-Hour Doggie Daycare http://grandopenings.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10625/mutt-management-inc-24-hour-doggie-daycare/ Opened by Charlotte Hickey, the business offers supervision for dogs.Arrangements may be made for early drop off or late pick up.Hickey is a breeder of AKC champions and is an owner/breeder/handler. She is a Registered AKC Canine Good Citizenship Award evaluator.Mutt Management Inc., 24-Hour Doggie Daycare, 3925 Brown Ave., Sarasota. 554-4620, or 480-1826.Published in the [...] Mutt Management Inc., 24-Hour Doggie Daycare
  • Sarasota All Star Elite http://grandopenings.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10617/sarasota-all-star-elite/ Opened by Dawn Caulson and Chastity Blount, Sarasota All Star Elite teaches young athletes ages 5 to 18 the sport of competitive cheerleading.Cheerleading is a competition sport that involves boys and girls performing routines composed of tumbling, stunting, pyramids, dance and cheer segments.These routines are performed and scored against other competitive teams at various local, [...] Sarasota All Star Elite
  • DeSoto Palms Assisted Living Community http://grandopenings.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10612/desoto-palms-assisted-living-community/ An independent and assisted living community, services and amenities include a 24 hour medical staff, assistance with medication and personal care, check-in and emergency call alert system, on-site physician clinic, scheduled transportation, recreational activities and social outings, a cafe, game room, exercise gym, spa, beauty/barber shop, chef prepared cuisine, private dining room, and more.355-0303.DeSoto Palms [...] DeSoto Palms Assisted Living Community

Recess This

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  • Lessons from the recession http://recessthis.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10066/lessons-from-the-recession/ The special series 'From Recession to Recovery' is wrapping up on SNN Local News 6 but it is far from the end of the story.By the account of experts who track these things and people who are living it, a full recovery will likely take years. And the road to recovery won't necessarily lead [...] Lessons from the recession
  • The economy's dance card http://recessthis.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10065/the-economys-dance-card/ There's an old song about dancing with the one who brought you to the party and when it comes to the local economy, tourism was one of our key companions for the shindig in Southwest Florida.Now as local jobseekers, government leaders and entrepreneurs try to envision (and shape) an economic recovery, there's talk of [...] The economy's dance card
  • A $100 million wish list http://recessthis.blogs.heraldtribune.com/10061/a-100-million-wish-list/ What would you do with $100 million?At a recent forum on economic recovery put together by SNN Local News 6, the Herald-Tribune and Sarasota County, we took questions from audience members and residents following the forum at home. This is the question, from 'Will,' that closed the 90-minute event.We asked panel members what three to [...] A $100 million wish list

Inside Sports

Most Recent Topics
  • Booker starting for Marshall http://insidesports.blogs.heraldtribune.com/15534/booker-starting-for-marshall/ Andre Booker is the starting running back for the Marshall football team.The former Riverview High standout will be in the backfield Thursday, when the Thundering Hurd visit Columbus, Ohio, for a game against Ohio State. The game will be televised on the Big Ten Network.The 5-foot-10, 178-pound Booker rushed for 73 yards last year, but [...] Booker starting for Marshall
  • Arlington Country Day quits FHSAA http://insidesports.blogs.heraldtribune.com/15527/arlington-country-day-quits-fhsaa/ Arlington Country Day has departed from the Florida High School Athletic Association.Known for its basketball program, ACD won five straight Class 2A state titles from 2005-09 before losing last year to an Orlando Christian Prep that knocked out Bradenton Christian in the regional final.In 2002, the school paid more than $33,000 in fines to the [...] Arlington Country Day quits FHSAA
  • FSL announces All-Star Team http://insidesports.blogs.heraldtribune.com/15518/fsl-announces-all-star-team/ Charlotte Stone Crabs manager Jim Morrison and four of his players were named to the 2010 Florida State League All-Star Team, League President Chuck Murphy announced.Two Bradenton Marauders made the team.The team was selected by field managers, official scorers, and club sports writers representing the 12 teams in the league. Also announced were the Player [...] FSL announces All-Star Team