The faithful fireman
The 39-year Lutz volunteer firefighter has witnessed horrific blazes, dramatic rescues, growth in the community and a decline in volunteerism. The department recently said "Thanks."

Rising road peril driven by anger
First of two parts.

Lower speed limit needed on Ehrlich
The writer sent us a copy of a letter he also sent to Hillsborough County Commissioner Jim Norman.

Offices, housing favored; day school project falters
The following petitions were heard by zoning hearing master Martin H. Smith earlier this month:

From Pinellas to Panama, firm based in Lutz caps noise levels
LUTZ -- A little-known roofing company made one local television studio quieter this year. WCLF-Ch. 22, a 36,000-square-foot Christian television station based in Largo, successfully used Roof Hugger structured plaster blocks to buffer out noise caused by rain and wind. They had the product installed about six months ago and are happy with it, said Wayne Wetzel, the president of Channel 22.

Middle school busies itself creating culture
Extracurricular activities shape the identity of the new Davidsen Middle School, which opened overcrowded.

Trapper suing county over loss of rooster
The bird was intended to trap a panther, but it didn't pan out. And the rooster was given away.

Plantation vote declared invalid
A Boys & Girls Club center was approved, but irregularities force a new election.

Eagle Scout continues to go above and beyond
The 28-year-old scout, who has Down's syndrome, still participates with his troop and earns merit badges. He has at least 39.

'Tis the season
Celebrate Safe at Busch Gardens -- Hold the alcohol and pour on the fun at a New Year's Eve celebration in a 335-acre African themed park. Ride world-class roller coasters in the dark such as Montu, Kumba and Gwazi, and party the night away with live music and disc jockeys from WSSR-FM 95.7.

Couples finally ready to strut their stuff in style
After several months of ballroom dancing instruction from two pros, neighborhood dancers are equipped to swing it.

Ad firm rolls out deals on wheels
The ad-emblazoned wheel covers remain stationary even when the vehicle is moving. Now they are popping up around the Suncoast.

Week in review
TREE FIRE IN ORIGINAL CARROLLWOOD: When she plugged in the family Christmas tree Tuesday morning, Debra Arias heard an electrical crackle. Then she saw the tree smoking. Arias and her father, Jack Lamb, tried to drag the blazing 7-foot tree out the back door of her home at 2110 W Fore Drive, but the base of the tree got caught in the door. Flames caught hold in the house and spread.

Avatar draws on wide sources to provide path to self-fulfillment
What is Avatar?

Start the new year with a tour of YMCA
Employees at the center, under construction on Compton Drive in New Tampa, will lead public tours Monday. Memberships go on sale this week.

Roman wrestling has become a tradition at Chamberlain
Philip is the latest in the family to lead the team. He's hoping to secure a berth in the state tournament.