North Pinellas County news Officials plan to tidy up properties Commissioners say they support hiring additional code enforcement officers to make the county more attractive. Growing pains promise improved Countryside Mall Mall officials say expansion and renovation will make shoppers' experiences there better.

[Times photo: Jim Damaske] Teacher intern Alexi Michelson, 27, talks with students Friday. From running away to reaching out Six years ago, Alexi Michelson fled an abusive boyfriend and arrived in Clearwater pregnant and alone. Today, she is graduating from USF. Some say park has gone to the dogs Droppings are making life unpleasant at R.E. Olds Park, they say. But dog owners say a pooch prohibition in the park is not the answer.

School bells may change schedule
The board has proposed altering the starting times at 13 Pinellas elementary schools, posing challenges for parents.

Volunteers run for life -- all night
A fundraiser for the American Cancer Society draws about 300 participants for relays lasting throughout the night.

Woman's arm amputated after bus runs over her
CLEARWATER -- A 57-year old woman remained in critical condition Friday, a day after her right arm was amputated from injuries she suffered in a freak accident.

Driver blamed in fatal crash
CLEARWATER -- Police say a 37-year-old Clearwater man ran a stop sign and then a red light in his Mazda RX7, causing a car crash that killed one of his passengers Friday night.

Chamber recognizes businesses
The Greater Palm Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce recognized its small, medium-sized and large businesses of the year at a chamber breakfast Thursday.

Parishioners find their calling: the theater
Members of Oakhurst United Methodist find the play's the thing -- for releasing their creativity and raising money for Christian

Sports
Local Phillies player to pitch for real thing
Brad Baisley of the Clearwater Phillies pitches in an exhibition game for Philadelphia on Monday night.

Army's Robbins named league's best in softball
A former Seminole High softball player at Army has been named Patriot League Player of the Year while leading the Cadets to their first appearance in the NCAA tournament. causes.

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