Trip proves an uplifting experience [Times photo: Carrie Pratt] A pilot shows off the pleasures of his occupation, soaring in a balloon through Pasco's early morning air. A soaring celebration The county's millennium party will feature a hot air balloon competition and ballon rides for those who want to take flight while landlubbers can enjoy music, food and arts and crafts.

Cutting suspect blames mother A teen accused of attempted murder in an attack on his stepbrother says his mother was involved, too. But officials are not planning to charge her. Sheriff hopefuls critical of study Three candidates for the office say there is no reason to pay a consultant $125,000 for a survey. Putting up with kids isn't always child's play I'm not anti-child.

Llama on the lam, but not for long
The animal wanders away from its pen behind an assisted-living facility. Deputies chase it home.

2 who locked out son won't see court
Prosecutors say the two, who have 16 adopted children, "were in fear of this child."

Rescue wins boy grown-up honor
Jeremiah Jackson says he learned how to swim when he was 5. Last month, he saved his aunt, uncle and little cousin.

Outlawing SLAPP lawsuits helps to protect our rights
Re: Legislature says one thing, does another, May 3 letter

Woman, 34, had sex with teen, police say
ZEPHYRHILLS -- A 34-year-old Zephyrhills woman was arrested Wednesday on charges that she had sex with a 14-year-old boy, the Zephyrhills Police Department reported.

2 small developers lectured about unpaved roads
One postpones his plan, but the other wins approval of gravel roads after discussions with the county's Development Review Committee.

Planning group approves road projects
NEW PORT RICHEY -- After discussing ways to ease traffic congestion in central Pasco County, members of the Metropolitan Planning Organization on Thursday approved a series of federally and state-funded transportation projects to run through the year 2005.

Powwow features traditional wedding
Seminole marriage rites will be the highlight Saturday at the Ninth Annual Mother's Day Native American Powwow.

Planning group approves road projects
NEW PORT RICHEY -- After discussing ways to ease traffic congestion in central Pasco County, members of the Metropolitan Planning Organization on Thursday approved a series of federally and state-funded transportation projects to run through the year 2005.

Celebrate Mother's Day with dinners, dances
The Pasco Italian American Civic Club is sponsoring a Mother's Day dinner and dance Saturday at the clubhouse, 7621 Maryland Ave., Hudson. Doors open at 5:15, dinner at 6:30 p.m. followed by dancing to music by a DJ. The affair is sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary. Tickets are $10. For information, call 862-2183. LaVilla Gardens Civic Association is sponsoring a barbecue supper at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the clubhouse, 5730 Elena Drive, Holiday. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and younger. Country and blue grass music will be provided for dancing and line dancing.

Spring Hill man tries to flee during traffic stop
NEW PORT RICHEY -- In an attempt to elude Port Richey police after they tried to stop him for reckless driving, a 52-year-old Spring Hill man ran away from officers from three departments, swam across the Pithlachascotee River and was pepper sprayed before going to jail, according to reports.

Ridgewood's boys seeking gold medals
The Rams have had many exceptional teams over the years, but "distance-wise, this is the strongest group we've ever had," according to coach Glenn Cable.