A single probable case of whooping cough was observed in Highlands County this year, while the Polk County Health Department reported a dramatic increase, with 23 confirmed cases since Jan. 1. ...more

July 31, 2008

A broken compact fluorescent light bulb releases a mercury-containing powder, some of which can evaporate into the air, and is difficult to contain or clean up. ...more

May 23, 2008

After facing recall after recall of millions of Chinese-made items, the nation's biggest toy sellers are imposing stricter measures on their suppliers - including tougher standards for lead content - to get ahead of expected new federal legislation. ...more

February 16, 2008

Hoping the green fleece baby blanket she made in her consumer science class might comfort a critically ill child, Samantha Martin included designs she thought might be soothing for a youngster, such as a rattle, duck and horse. ...more

November 25, 2007