The week in words

By Times Staff Writer
Published February 24, 2008

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

"This is horrific. I just cannot understand how a son can kill his own mother. It is just beyond me."

Nancy Tabbert, a friend of Sherrill and David Wright, who were slain in their Shady Hills home. Authorities on Thursday charged their son, Jackie Lee Braden, with the crime.

"Tristan's one of those people who has such a way with animals. He's a very patient, calm child. He doesn't scream and run around."

Misty Rhoden, a 4-H leader who supervised Tristan Taylor, who had high hopes for his 1,300-pound steer at the Pasco County Fair.

"I think I got lucky to be in the right place at the right time."

State Rep. Peter Nehr, who represents portions of Pinellas and Pasco counties, regarding his tip that led authorities to a marijuana grow house.

"All I can say is I didn't do it. The aliens did it."

John Ditullio, a neo-Nazi facing a murder trial, after Pasco deputies accused him of flooding a jail cell block.

"I was just in shock. I really didn't know what to think."

William "Billy" Poe Jr., after being hired to manage Dade City.

"If the money's not there, we can't spend it. And it's not there."

State Sen. Victor Crist, R-Tampa, regarding predictions that courts will be shut down because of state budget cuts.

"This is my favorite part of the year. It's the reason I like teaching the seventh grade."

Karen Oliva, a science teacher at Centennial Middle School, whose students visited the 12,500-acre Cross Bar Ranch and Well Field preserve last week. Students visit the ranch November through June to learn about the Pithlachascotee watershed and the wildlife it supports.

"This is the greatest day of my life!"

Daniel Miley, 22, as he competed in the Pasco County Special Olympics.

[Last modified February 23, 2008, 20:24:48]