Blade runners on remote turn heads [Times photo: Mike Pease] Robot lawn mowers zipping around a Toro test site off Bruce B. Downs Boulevard have gotten some curious --- and envious -- stares.

Habitat rule raises questions
Environmentalists worry that in one case the city ordinance intended to preserve wildlife does not actually create new habitat.

State's fall imports sell briskly despite price
It could have been a genuine Florida pumpkin.

Driving business or fueling stereotypes?
Owners say a junk car outside their restaurant is part of the building's atmosphere. Hispanic residents say it promotes a negative image.

School reels from lives cut short
Teenagers at Gaither High School cope with two deaths a week after a terrible car crash.

Track to host state competition
Lake Park's BMX track, developed informally in the mid 1970s, is now nationally recognized.

The feathered's friend
Artist John Costin hopes his hand-colored etchings of Florida's most beautiful large birds inspire preservation efforts.

Maintenance is key for healthy roses
If you want to make a big fall color impression and not have to replant seasonally, you might want to add a few roses to your garden.

Cory Lake Isles has new group
CORY LAKE ISLES -- A Cory Lake Isles resident has formed a civic association after saying she was excluded from the neighborhood homeowners association in her gated community.

Planned commercial hub gives way to homes
TAMPA PALMS -- What was once viewed as a corporate and industrial center, is now set to become a new development of homes, apartments -- and offices.

More surveys will gauge reclaimed water issue
ODESSA -- If the homeowners who live in Van Dyke Farms want reclaimed water, Hillsborough County officials will do their best to see they get it. And if they don't, well, the county will just take it elsewhere.

Senate candidates focus on growth of suburbs
NEW TAMPA -- Voters got to see and hear both candidates for state Senate District 13 at a political forum this week where they tried to connect with residents in Tampa's newest suburb.

Once again, long-winded debates, acrimony characterize meeting
The Northdale Special Tax District board welcomes new members, votes for officers and lapses into long discussions and critical words.

Gaither, Bloomingdale is one to watch
Three of four contests tonight are district games, but the only one that will really settle anything for local teams is Gaither at Bloomingdale, where the Cowboys are heavily favored to earn a district championship.