Jan Glidewell: Education cutbacks dim future brightness
During the recent gubernatorial campaign, Democrats generally thought the class size amendment was a good idea, although they were hazy about how to pay for it.

Wal-Mart settles on fourth site
First there were too many wetlands, then not enough traffic lights. The retail giant's latest choice may be just right.

Mike Hampton marks 3rd visit with children
The major-league pitcher comes back to his old elementary school to share lunch and wisdom with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Citrus County.

Husband of slain woman freed
Prosecutors drop a felony battery charge, and Gerald Owens is released on bail on a lesser charge. He remains a focus of an investigation into his wife's death.

Big farms may face stricter scrutiny
The planning board moves to beef up standards in the wake of environmental concerns raised by a new dairy farm.

Dream dies with trucker in wreck
Bobby Jean Price, 68, was a newly certified trainer when he and his trainee were killed in a wreck in South Dakota.

Free clinic tops highlights
Crystal River High's baseball field also will be renamed for the former Pirate and current major league star.

Lawmakers get an earful from education coalition
Citrus County School Readiness Coalition members tell three state legislators they feel handcuffed by restrictions on school funding.

Entertainment this week
ART LEAGUE PLAY: The Citrus County Art League continues with its presentation of the drama The Lion In Winter written by James Goldman. The play runs today through Sunday at the Art Center Theater, 2644 North Annapolis Ave. and the corner of CR 486 in Citrus Hills. Today and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m. Matinee on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. The box office is open Tuesday through Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Call 746-7606.

Christmas Parade steps to patriotic theme
"A Red, White & Blue Christmas' is this year's theme for the annual Crystal River event Saturday, which will honor American veterans.

Floral City mixes history with holiday celebrations
Candles, Carols and Carriages takes visitors to the town's historic homes under majestic oaks in anambience of yesteryear beginning tonight.

Citrus digest
Bar manager, wife face drug charges

Letters: Profits take precedence over home damage
Editor: Re: Wal-Mart arrival rattles neighbors, Nov. 29 Citrus Times: For the most part, citizens of Citrus County, especially those who live in the Inverness area, look forward to the opening of the Wal-Mart Supercenter.