The week in words

By TIMES STAFF
Published August 12, 2007

Editor's note: The following is a recap of the week's news events , in the words of the newsmakers

"I believe in Rudy. I think he's going to do a great job as president."

School Superintendent Heather Fiorentino, who has agreed to head Rudy Giuliani's effort in Pasco County.

"It's not as if we're going to Haiti and bringing all these kids in."

Ray Gadd, assistant superintendent of Pasco schools, after a discussion on whether the school district or county government should pay for road improvements in Wesley Chapel.

"He pretty much stole any innocence I would have had."

18-year-old woman who for years was sexually molested by Douglas James Drape, a former Pasco Fire Rescue battalion chief sentenced to prison for 15 years.

"They all clearly have enough growth to sell to retailers. But they will have to struggle to get a foothold because of the timing."

Judi Lapin, president of a California-based consulting company that advises retailers. She referred to three large malls planned in the Wesley Chapel area, within a five-minute drive from each other.

"People are unhappy. They feel like she embarrassed the town."

Curtis Beebe, chairman of a committee seeking to remove Camille Hernandez from the Dade City Commission.

"That certainly put us over the top. We'll absolutely be able to have a backpack for every kid."

Bob Loring, East Pasco Toys for Tots director who has been collecting money to give poor kids school supplies. He was reacting to a $5,000 gift from an anonymous donor.

"I tell her that every day I drive up the second deadliest highway in the nation, U.S. 19," he said. "Living has its risks."

Jerry Calhoun, who resigned as Port Richey city manager to take a job in Iraq. He was referring to his wife, Ligia, being nervous for his safety.

[Last modified August 11, 2007, 21:02:04]