Reading program tries to close gap
An intensive reading instruction program is likely to be aimed exclusively at second-graders.

Reviews mixed on fire chief's work
Three fire commissioners give Chief Mike Morgan high scores, while two give him low grades. He ends up with a 4.6 percent raise.

Recorded phone calls result in charges
A Hernando Beach man is accused of recording and releasing conversations with a county commissioner.

Proposal for bus service inches ahead
The Metropolitan Planning Organization approves documents needed to secure grants for the system.

Hospital should select site east of Brooksville
Editor: This letter is to express my concern about the proposed site for relocation of Brooksville Regional Hospital.

Raging bulls
Professional cowboys hope for a ride on "a hard-bucking son of a gun" this week at Brooksville's annual Bullriding Blowout.

Classic rock concert headlines Rally by the River
The Independence Day celebration also will feature arts and crafts, kids games, a car/truck show and lots of food.

School Board rejects plan to dictate homework levels
BROOKSVILLE -- The School Board decided Thursday against a sweeping rule on how much homework students should receive, instead opting to leave such decisions up to teachers and their schools.

World champs about to make new run for glory
Many of last year's champion Belles are on the older Debs team that begins play Saturday in the Dixie League state softball tournament.

Arroyo gets 4th start; faces Phils
Former Hernando High pitcher Bronson Arroyo will make his fourth major-league start Saturday for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He is scheduled to face the Philadelphia Phillies at Veterans Stadium.

Man charged with exposing himself to girl, 9
HUDSON -- James Joseph Woodall of Spring Hill, a registered sexual predator, was arrested for lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 16, loitering and prowling after leading police on a chase through woods along U.S. 19, according to reports. Deputies found him in a stream.