AVON PARK — The city's search for a new police chief could be put on hold if City Manager C.B. Shirey becomes the Avon Park Executive Airport's manager next month. Shirey said that the council would instead try to find his replacement before they fill the vacant police chief position. He had no estimate on how long this could take, saying it depends on how quickly the city begins advertising the open position. The Avon Park Police Department has had its police chief position vacant since late September, when then-Police Chief Frank Mercurio was forced to resign. Since then, Shirey received 60 applications for the position. APPD Cmdr. Michael Rowan, who has assumed Mercurio's old duties while the city was searching for a new chief, said he did not expect this delay to have any further impact on the department. ...more

December 21, 2007

Jon Gruden addresses the media ...more

December 19, 2007

The Florida Orchestra will open its next masterworks program with the joys of Mozart and Sibelius, but just as important as the music will be a bit of security behind the scenes. ...more

December 11, 2007

TAMPA – The Florida Orchestra will open its next masterworks program with the joys of Mozart and Sibelius, but just as important as the music will be a bit of security behind the scenes. That's because musicians and management this week agreed to a new three-year contract, one shaped by difficult budget cuts and concessions, but a contract nonetheless. ...more

December 11, 2007

WAUCHULA — The Avon Park girls soccer team tallied its second win of the season against the Hardee Wildcats in a Class 4A-District 10 match-up at Wildcat Stadium on Thursday, winning 3-0. Missy Lander, who has been a vocal leader on the field for Avon Park, was one of three that scored for the Red Devils, who have earned both victories this season against the 'Cats. "We are passing the ball so much better now," said AP head coach Greg Thacker. "I finally have a squad that will stick with the program, and are working hard." Thacker moved Lander to the forward position and has been pleased with the decision. ...more

December 8, 2007

Commissioner Bill Dodson announced Tuesday that he is running for a third term on the city commission. ...more

December 8, 2007

President Pervez Musharraf announced Thursday that he intended to lift emergency rule and restore the constitution by Dec. 16, saying he had fulfilled his promise to bring democracy to Pakistan and calling on political parties to participate in January elections. ...more

November 30, 2007

Dear Abby: While dining out these past couple of weeks, I have noticed something troubling. I have overheard several elderly people talking very loudly on their cell phones and giving out personal information. ...more

November 25, 2007

University of South Florida coach Jim Leavitt said the Bulls will face a "tremendous" challenge when they visit Pittsburgh on Saturday. ...more

November 20, 2007

Bucs players discuss Sunday's game against Atlanta and other topics: ...more

November 14, 2007