Teachers cram for new block schedule The new four by four schedule means teachers have to learn new ways to engage students in longer 90-minute classes. Expansion at CREST gives twice the space The school's student body kept growing, but the building didn't. After nearly nine months of renovations, principal Keith Posta says there is now "elbow room'. New school prepares to be envy of the district Forest Ridge Elementary School will open its doors to custom features such as an acoustic "story castle" for reading aloud, a food lab and special observation areas in some rooms with one-way mirrors for viewing students. Lesson plan Citrus County schools are revving up to full speed as summer winds down, with lots of changes in store.

Plan could ease burden for retirees
The County Commission will discuss Tuesday whether to write a letter supporting a proposal to open a local Social Security office.

A shelter shaken
Two former clients of CASA, a Citrus spouse abuse shelter, say they were mistreated. CASA supporters say the charges are outrageous.

Truckloads of old cars for sale
An auction will dispose of several antique cars -- or at least their parts -- that have been rusting for decades.

How about returning any extra tax money?
A funny thing is happening these days as our elected representatives ponder how to spend our money next year. From commissioners to legislators and everything in between, they're wringing their hands over having too much tax money.

Do homework on water park
It's far too soon to determine whether state-owned land along the Cross Florida Barge Canal in Inglis is an appropriate place to build a $100-million white-water park for rafting and kayaking.

Is degree a key to success?
Editor: Re: Emergency coordinator misses the cut, Aug. 1 Citrus Times:

Argenziano named to health task force
John Thrasher, speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, has appointed state Rep. Nancy Argenziano to serve on a task force that will study ways to improve long-term care for the elderly in Florida.

All-stars appreciate what they have accomplished
INVERNESS -- To fully understand the significance of the Inverness Senior All-Stars' first trip to the South Region softball championship, step for a moment into the shoes of ace pitcher Tabitha Schruffer.

The week in review
A look back at the week's top stories.