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Today’s headlines
Residential community in the works for Pasco
WESLEY CHAPEL -- In the hands of a development company from St. Lucie County, the Wiregrass Ranch in Wesley Chapel could grow into a new town complete with thousands of homes, dozens of businesses, schools and a tennis stadium.

Alliance's words hurt them, state says
Florida's legal strategy in recouping its Enron losses will focus on the fund manager's investment guidelines.

Insurer pulls plug on policies
Nationwide will not renew policies on hurricane-prone properties in Florida.

Progress CEO: We're not Enron
Shareholders' meetings usually give CEOs a chance to trumpet their recent accomplishments and forecast the future.

Tourism group in cash pinch
Pinellas officials might seek a $1-million loan to ensure funding for its marketing efforts.

Business today
MERRILL, NEW YORK NEAR DEAL: Merrill Lynch & Co. has agreed to a "framework" to settle the New York attorney general's investigation of alleged conflicts of interest at the nation's largest brokerage firm. A Merrill Lynch spokesman declined to provide details. Attorney General Elliot Spitzer's office wouldn't confirm the development or comment on negotiations. Lawyers for Spitzer and Merrill Lynch also agreed to postpone a court hearing set for Thursday until May 16.