The stretch before Christmas [Times photo: Ron Thompson] Paul Yetton adjusts a string of holiday lights on a large pine tree outside the Historic Courthouse in Inverness. Yetton and other county workers were putting up decorations Tuesday, including the lights and a star atop the 30-foot evergreen.

Stabbing victim still in hospital in fair condition
HOMOSASSA -- One of the three men stabbed Saturday at a party in Homosassa remains at Tampa General Hospital.

Thurman's silence seals signs case
The husband of Ginny Brown-Waite admitted he stole her rival's campaign signs. After no one stepped forward to press charges, the prosecutor closes the case.

Former judge faces more legal questions
Michael Blackstone, now a private attorney, is accused of acting improperly in connection with a child custody case.

Vultures forecast: clearing up
It seems the destructive birds can only take so much: The sight of vulture carcasses hanging in trees appears to be scaring them off.

Ex-officer's long, strange journey ends
A man who quit the Inverness squad and then was accused of fraud must serve 10 years of probation, make $30,000 in restitution and get help for substance abuse.

Standout senior shooter takes aim at 1,000 mark
Ryan Ludwick was eating his pre-game meal Tuesday when Seven Rivers Christian coach Jim Ervin told the standout shooting guard he was 10 points shy of 1,000 for his career.

Love gives Hurricanes new look
Citrus found a new power source Tuesday night, as junior Alexsia Love had 19 points and seven rebounds to lead Citrus to a road victory over rival Williston.

Volunteer gives wisdom, time to Inverness Primary students
INVERNESS -- For eight years Robert Greene has been volunteering at Inverness Primary School as a mentor or tutor. At age 92, he is still active and giving to the community.

Author shares tricks of trade
Students at Crystal River Middle School get to attend workshops with writer Kathy Feeney, who has written 25 nonfiction books..

For the seriously artistic
A Lecanto Middle School art teacher offers a yearlong art class for eighth-graders who are considering the arts high school.

City may challenge tax exemption
Heron Woods, because it rents homes to low-income residents, is exempt from property taxes. Inverness is studying its options.

Letters: Dairy farm should never have passed
Editor: Another reason for the commissioners to rethink their actions is the dairy farm. First mistake was to give the staff authority to review and approve any requests having a potential for controversy. Second mistake was that commissioners depended on their astute staff and legal counsel to review, even after serious public objection, and determine that the staff approval was correct.