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State's jobless may miss out on extended benefits - July 23, 2010 - The federal government on Thursday finalized an extension of unemployment benefits that will bring welcome relief to millions of the struggling jobless. But not, at least for now, if they live in the Sunshine State.

Know This Guy? Call Police !!!!!

A man suspected in a number of distraction robberies was caught on camera at a Bank of America branch in south Miami-Dade.

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Charlie Crist Blasts Florida Lawmakers

Crist's plan for windfall has a short shelf life - February 25, 2009 - C harlie's just giddy with the little people's money.

Mixed mood in S. Florida: anxiety, hope - February 25, 2009 - South Floridians reacted with cautious optimism and a wait-and-see attitude following President Obama's prime-time speech.

U.S. Congress set to open Cuban exiles' passage to island - February 25, 2009 - A huge spending bill being debated by Congress would effectively lift the restrictions on Cuban-American families' travel to the island.

South Florida tourism slump worsens in January - February 25, 2009 - January brought no relief to South Florida's tourism woes, although the destination is busier than elsewhere in the Sunshine State.

In stimulus plan, how much bang for the buck? - February 24, 2009 - Thousands of cities, counties compete for scarce infrastructure funds

Latest 'phishing' scam lures you with tax return - February 19. 2009 - Cyber-thieves' e-mail looks like it's from the IRS, but it's a rip-off

Beware Of Latest Scheme Targeting Social Networking Sites - February 4. 2009 - Friends of Bryan Rutberg were alarmed to hear Bryan was in trouble overseas recently, and one sent money to help out

Macy's eliminates all 600 jobs at Miami office - February 3, 2009 - Macy's is eliminating all 600 jobs at its regional headquarters in downtown Miami, part of a major corporate reorganization that includes cutting 7,000 jobs nationwide.

Florida could receive $13 billion stimulus - February 3, 2009 - TALLAHASSEE - Florida could receive more than $13 billion in the developing federal stimulus package, money badly needed in a state that plans to slash $4 billion from its own budget this spring.

FPL customers struggle to pay bills, deposits - February 3, 2009 - Customers are complaining about FPL turning off their power or demanding huge deposits to keep the lights on.

For Florida lawmakers, economy is top priority - February 3, 2009 - Unemployment among challenges facing Legislature

Charlie Crist keeps options open for Senate run. - February 3. 2009 - Gov. Charlie Crist won't close the door on running for the U.S. Senate in 2010 when Mel Martinez steps down.

Entrepreneurs' conference coming Feb. 26 - February 2. 2009 - About this time last year, economic troubles were on the wind. But few imagined the ferociousness of the financial tsunami that hit world markets last fall.

Judge wrests control from mortgage helpers - January 31, 2009 - A Broward Circuit judge has placed Margate-based foreclosure rescue company Outreach Housing into receivership and banned its principal, Blair Wright, from certain business activities. The action follows a suit by the Office of Financial Regulation alleging the company was wrongly taking money from homeowners in foreclosure.

GOP governors press Congress to pass stimulus bill - January 31, 2009 - NEW YORK -- Most Republican governors have broken with their GOP colleagues in Congress and are pushing for passage of President Barack Obama's economic aid plan that would send billions to states for education, public works and health care.

Dade School Board considers freeze on worker raises to meet budget cuts - January 31, 2009 - Miami-Dade School Board members took a tentative vote to delay the raises promised to teachers and other employees.

New speaker a quiet conservative - January 31, 2009 - Larry Cretul, the Florida House's new speaker, has been a steady right-hand man to Ray Sansom.

Fla. House Speaker Ray Sansom steps aside' - January 31, 2009 - Besieged by criticism and facing criminal and ethical investigations into his dealings with a state college, House Speaker Ray Sansom stepped aside from his post today.

Sansom steps aside after 'very painful three months' - January 30, 2009 - Citing the "grave pain" that negative publicity has caused his family, Ray Sansom announced Friday he was stepping down as state House speaker.

Stimulus Formula Discounts Florida, GOP Says - January 30, 2009 - WASHINGTON - Florida Republicans from the Tampa Bay area and elsewhere are questioning whether the state would get its fair share of the $819 billion stimulus package the House passed Wednesday.

Florida may come up short in stimulus - January 30, 2009 - Florida leaders counting on more than $3.5 billion from a massive federal stimulus package to shore up the state's education budget learned Thursday there could be a catch.

Study: Fla. Gets C-Minus in Keeping Good Teachers, Removing Bad Ones - January 30, 2009 - WASHINGTON | Most states, including Florida, are not doing what it takes to keep good teachers and remove bad ones, a national study found.

State Farm must submit policyholder information to state - January 30, 2009 - In order to drop its 1.2 million policies covering homes and boats, State Farm Florida Insurance must submit policyholder information to state insurance regulators.

Magistrate backs Miami-Dade school district decision to deny teacher raises - January 30, 2009 - The Miami-Dade school district should not have to give teachers the raises guaranteed in their contract, a special magistrate said. The final decision is up to the School Board.

Homelessness surges as funding falters - January 30, 2009 - Providers to the poor try to stretch meager resources to meet growing need

Crist: Florida 'better off' without State Farm - January 29, 2009 - ORLANDO, Fla. — State Farm said Tuesday that it has had enough of hurricane-prone Florida and intends to drop all of its property-insurance customers during the next 2 ½ years, forcing about 1.2 million policyholders to find new coverage

Court: Fla. cops can be sued over 'safety checks' - January 29, 2009 - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- Law enforcement agencies can be sued over "safety checks" that go bad, a sharply divided Florida Supreme Court said Thursday.

Florida International Business Expo offers a global platform - January 29, 2009 - The Florida International Business Expo has attracted dozens of smaller businesses with networking possibilities and minimal booth fees.

Analysis of U.S. Sugar land buy criticized - January 28, 2009 - A cost analysis paid for by an environmental group backs a controversial lease arrangement in the state's Everglades restoration land buy from U.S. Sugar.

Healthcare group eyes fees on small Florida tobacco companies - January 28, 2009 - With deep cuts looming in the state budget, children's advocates are eyeing a potentially bountiful source of new dollars: small tobacco companies.

Stimulus package may include $4 billion in medical aid for Florida's poor - January 28, 2009 - Billions in healthcare dollars may be flowing to Florida in the stimulus package, but the Legislature has made it tough to use them to expand programs.

Gelber to run for U.S. Senate - January 28, 2009 - State Sen. Dan Gelber launched his campaign for the U.S. Senate from his Miami Beach home.

Crist's vetoes irk Republicans - January 28, 2009 - Gov. Charlie Crist is starting to anger some fellow Republicans over the way he vetoed some of their budget cuts to popular programs.

Crist counts on federal relief to rescue Florida - January 26, 2009 - TALLAHASSEE - If Gov. Charlie Crist's wish comes true, Florida will enjoy a multibillion-dollar rush of federal dollars in the coming year -- staving off slash-and-burn budget cuts that could decimate schools, social services and other programs.

South Florida cities list projects for President Obama stimulus plan money - January 26, 2009 - 15 mayors in South Florida draw up wish lists that add up to $2.5 billion

Gain from Chiles' fund could end in state loss - January 26, 2009 - Temporary budget fix could lead to more woe in future

Obama could shift U.S. prosecutor's priorities in South Florida - January 25, 2009 - In the coming months, President Barack Obama will put his own stamp on crime-fighting efforts in South Florida by naming a new U.S. attorney to direct federal investigations and prosecutions.

'Angry moms' riled over state cuts to education - January 25, 2009 - With Tallahassee likely to embark on a new round of cuts in school funding, parents are rebelling in a variety of ways and could help tilt the political balance.

Meek gets this Senate race started - January 24, 2009 - U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek of MIami, the first candidate out of the gate for the U.S. Senate seat to be vacated by Mel Martinez, will hold his first fundraiser Friday with a very special guest: former President Bill Clinton.

Deal collapse raises questions over Worldcenter - January 24, 2009 - Builders behind a giant downtown development failed to close on an important land purchase for the project.

Florida job outlook bleaker - January 24, 2009 - The state's unemployment rate grew more than expected in December, hitting its highest point in 16 years.

New rules raise the bar for condo mortgages in Florida - January 24, 2009 - In a move that will make it even more difficult to qualify for a condo loan, Fannie Mae is putting a host of new conditions on mortgages for condominiums in Florida.

Florida looking for big boost from U.S. economic stimulus package - January 24, 2009 - State-by-state details of the giant economic stimulus package are beginning to emerge, though the figures could change

Crist praises Obama's promised stimulus package - January 23, 2009 - West Palm Beach - Gov. Charlie Crist told a crowd of 700 today the stimulus package promised by President Barack Obama offers hope on the heels of severe budget cuts.

Sen. Nelson outraged at bailout accountability - January 23, 2009 - WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson said he received assurances today from the Treasury Secretary nominee that there will be more accountability in how the next batch of funds from the $700 billion economic bailout will be used.

Budget Cuts Lead Schools To Offer Early Retirement - January 23, 2009 - The Miami-Dade School District is one of many looking to cut back on spending, and now they're looking to offering early retirement to offset the budget deficit -- something they haven't done in nearly two decades.

Florida jobless rate passes 8% mark, highest in 16 years - January 23, 2009 - "Florida's unemployment rate hit 8.1 percent in December, the highest rate in 16 years, the state labor department announced Friday morning

Metrorail North Corridor extension derailed another year - January 23, 2009 - For the second year in a row, the Metrorail North Corridor received low marks from federal regulators. But the long-sought project is not quite dead yet.

Troubled Miami-Dade reform school may be forced to close main campus - January 24, 2009 - A troubled South Miami-Dade reform school could lose its main campus after the state announced it would lose its funding in March.

New rules raise the bar for condo mortgages in Florida - January 24, 2009 - In a move that will make it even more difficult to qualify for a condo loan, Fannie Mae is putting a host of new conditions on mortgages for condominiums in Florida.

Florida job offices feel the squeeze, too - January 23, 2009 - Applying for unemployment benefits in Florida can't be done in person. Either go online, or do it by phone and wait.

U.S. Senate candidates in Florida face a hard sell in 2010 - January 22, 2009 - Florida voters will require a lot of courting from the field of politicians considering a 2010 U.S. Senate run.

Senate Select Committee on Florida's Economy brain-storms solutions to the state's economic crisis - January 21, 2009 - BOYNTON BEACH — Dozens of local citizens lined up to offer advice to state senators today as they met to address Florida's economic crisis.

Legislature Passed Over Loopholes When Working On Budget - January 21, 2009 - TAMPA - While the Florida Legislature slashed budgets for schools, children's health care and living assistance for the elderly in its recent special session, it ignored a couple of easy fixes – loopholes in corporate tax law -- that could have produced revenue to avoid some of the worst cuts.

President Obama makes his way to new office - January 20, 2009 - Inaugural parade heads to White House, celebrating first black U.S. leader

Study: South Florida could lose 84,800 jobs in 2009 - January 20, 2009 - South Florida will lose more jobs this year than any American metropolitan area except New York and Los Angeles, according to a study released this weekend by the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

Where Obama stands on Florida issues - January 20, 2009 - Here's the latest on how the new president has said he will deal with some issues of importance to Floridians:

Feds Intervene to Set Florida Water Quality Standards - January 19, 2009 - Rising Percentage of State Rivers, Lakes and Estuaries Impaired by Excess Nutrients

Florida's state management agency has new oversight provisions - January 19, 2009 - Here's a trivia question: What state agency manages the billions of dollars in Florida employees' pension fund, a property insurance fund, part of the prepaid college tuition plan, research dollars for healthcare programs for children and the elderly?

Inquiries keep Florida House speaker silent - January 19, 2009 - Ray Sansom continues to be a most unusual House speaker by keeping mostly silent as he faces inquiries into his dealings with his hometown college.

Floridians ready for Obama inaugural - January 18, 2009 - Thousands of Floridians are heading to Washington, D.C., by plane, train, automobile and bus to be there for the inauguration of Barack Obama.

Student proposals impress lawmaker - January 18, 2009 - TAMPA — If these students got their way, cigarettes would be more expensive, police would drive hybrid cars and plastic foam containers wouldn't be in the school cafeterias.

Two big dangers lurk for Florida - January 18, 2009 - When legislators last week wrapped up their special session, whacking $2.3 billion out of the state budget, it was only a preview of the dangers that lurk for the regular session, which begins in March. They may have to cut billions more, and could take action for all the wrong reasons.

States eye Obama rescue plan - January 18, 2009 - Authorities predict states could face $145 billion in combined budget shortfalls in 2010

Crist, Legislature inhabit separate realities - January 18, 2009 - State Rep. Anitere Flores was exactly right. The Republicans who run the Florida Legislature and the Republican who commands the governor's office are living in two different worlds.

Florida driver's license settlement: $2.9M for lawyers, $1 for you - January 16, 2009 - Cash-strapped Florida will shell out $10.4 million to settle a suit that reimburses state drivers $1 each.

A failure of leadership - January 14, 2009 - There is little doubt that the Florida Legislature will vote along party lines today when it approves a patchwork plan to solve the state's $2.4-billion deficit.

Florida Budget Cuts Hammer Schools & Healthcare - January 14, 2009 - State Senate Approves $2.8 Billion Budget Plan

Budget-squeezed states want a share of online sales - January 13, 2009 - BUYING ONLINE IS CONVENIENT -- AND A WAY TO AVOID SALES TAX. BUT BUDGET-SQUEEZED STATES WANT A SHARE OF CYBER-BUYING

Congressman Kendrick Meek of Miami plans to run for U.S. Senate - January 13, 2009 - Miami U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek plans to run for Mel Martinez's U.S. Senate seat.

Legislators Expect Deal By Monday On Budget Cuts - January 11, 2009 - Deal Made To Help Nursing Homes - New Traffic Fines, Other Changes To Help Plug Deficit

Ten years later, family of slain Aventura doctor waits for justice - January 10, 2009 - It's been 10 years since Dr. Bradley Silverman was gunned down in his office. After a long wait, his accused killer is still awaiting trial.

High and low points in the first half of Gov. Charlie Crist's term... - January 10, 2009 - High and low points in the first half of Gov. Charlie Crist's term:

A Teflon governor: Charlie Crist remains popular despite Florida's hard times - January 10, 2009 - At the midpoint of his term, Gov. Charlie Crist has aced some tests and botched others. But his popularity with voters endures.

Prosecutors charge Palm Beach County Commissioner McCarty's husband - January 10, 2009 - Prosecutors say he didn't report illegal acts by his wife for years

Fla. lawmakers pass business loans bill - January 9, 2009 - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- The Senate has approved Gov. Charlie Crist's $10 million pilot program to encourage business expansion with low-interest loans.

DeFede: Same Old Legislative Misery - January 9, 2009 - For several days I've been trying to write this column regarding the special legislative session taking place in Tallahassee. State revenues are off leaving the state with a $2 billion hole in this year's budget that they need to fill immediately. And projections are there will be another $4 billion gap in the 2009-2010 budget that the Legislature will have to address when it convenes for its regular session in a couple of months.

Pharmed co-founders sentenced to 9 years in prison - January 7, 2009 - Saying she wanted to maintain community values in a time of rampant healthcare fraud, a federal judge sentenced Carlos and Jorge de Céspedes, brothers who were once pillars of the community, to nine years in prison Wednesday.

Lawmakers plan to cut $491M in school budgets - January 7, 2009 - TALLAHASSEE - The impact of the Florida Legislature's budget-cutting special session will hit hardest in the classroom, as school districts learned Tuesday how deep a cash crunch they would face under plans legislators will formalize today.

Legislators embrace cuts, avoid tax hikes - January 7, 2009 - TALLAHASSEE — Teachers are digging into their own pockets for school supplies. Identity-theft investigations are slowing down. And thousands of nursing home workers are bracing for layoffs.

Fla. Republicans sticking with no-taxes approach - January 7, 2009 - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- Budget deficit reduction is taking on a partisan tone in the Florida Legislature.

Lawmakers start work on $2.3B budget deficit - January 6, 2009 - Renewing your driving license might be a little less convenient when the Legislature finishes adjusting Florida's already-tightened state budget to head off a $2.3 billion revenue shortage.

South Florida business bankruptcies highest since at least 1990 - January 6, 2009 - More South Florida businesses headed to bankruptcy court last year than at any time since at least 1990.

Crisis getting worse, lawmakers are told - January 6, 2009 - Lawmakers returned to Tallahassee to cut the state budget and close the deficit but were greeted with more bad financial news.

Plenty of opportunities, rewards for special education teachers - January 6, 2009 - Mary Kornbluth starts work at 7:30 every morning, but her day is a little different from the average elementary-school teacher.

Education Union Proposes Sales Tax Increase - January 5, 2009 - Lawmakers Addressing Budget Crisis Wednesday

Miami-Dade schools' finances draw state scrutiny - January 5, 2009 - The Miami-Dade school district has increased its reserves, but additional budget cuts are likely needed, meaning more layoffs and program cuts.

.Florida House Speaker Ray Sansom quits college post - January 5, 2009 - TALLAHASSEE -- Under fire for accepting a job at a college into which he poured state money, House Speaker Ray Sansom unexpectedly announced Monday that he is quitting the post as vice president of Northwest Florida State College.

Lawmakers To Slash Budget In Special Session - January 4, 2009 - Legislators Looking To Cut $2.3 Billion

State's growth nearly nil - January 3, 2009 - Florida's population growth crawled to a near standstill last year, the compounding result of a national recession and the downturn in the state real estate market. It was the slowest rate in Florida since 1944, during the height of World War II.

Editorial: Stop raiding trust fund to balance budget on backs of needy children - January 3, 2009 - Health of children essential in keeping Florida's economy, finances sustainable

Cuban American named Florida Supreme Court justice - January 3, 2009 - Gov. Charlie Crist named Jorge Labarga to the Florida Supreme Court. The Palm Beach judge represents the second Cuban American to serve on the high court.

s the Integrity of Florida's Judiciary in Question? - January 1, 2009 - Over the last month, the drama played out over the most recent nomination to the Florida Supreme Court has sparked sharp criticism of the judicial nominating process.

State's minimum wage grows to $7.21 an hour - January 1, 2009 - Some of Florida's lowest-paid workers will get a raise beginning Thursday.

Liquor, tobacco shielded from lawmakers' special session - January 1, 2009 - The Legislature meets for special session next week to figure out how to close a $2.3 billion budget hole in this fiscal year's $65 billion budget. House Speaker Ray Sansom and Senate President Jeff Atwater have proclaimed that any fix to Florida's sales-tax-dependent budget can't include increasing taxes on booze or cigs or even giving the nod to the governor's deal with the Seminoles to get more than $100 million from their casino operations. Read the actural order.

An Irresponsible Budget - - December 31, 2008 - House Speaker Ray Sansom and Senate President Jeff Atwater on Tuesday officially released their call for the special budget-cutting session set to start next week and it closely mirrors the trust-fund raids and cuts Gov. Charlie Crist recommended.

Obama pledges schools upgrade in stimulus plan - December 31, 2008 - WASHINGTON --  Barack Obama probably cannot fix every leaky roof and busted boiler in the nation's schools. But educators say his sweeping school modernization program _ if he spends enough _ could jump-start student achievement.

Florida Legislature to hear public's views on budget cuts - December 31, 2008 - As the Legislature heads into a special session on the state's budget crisis, lawmakers will offer the public a chance to speak out on proposed cuts.

Dania city manager's farewell letter leads to his firing - December 31, 2008 - Dania Beach's city manager was fired over a letter that offended some commissioners, the latest -- and final -- friction between the two sides. Read the Letter, I read the letter and the Dania Beach's Commissioner's should be Fired for this type of actions

Floridians get four hours to make budget suggestions - December 31, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE — The state Legislature will give the public a fleeting chance to sound off next week before making deep cuts in programs to patch a $2.3-billion budget deficit.

Supeme Court overturns death penalty case - December 30, 2008 -  The Florida Supreme Court made an unusual decision on Monday and agreed to overturn the death sentence of Willie H. Nowell who was convicted for first-degree murder. They remanded the case back to the trial court with new directions for a new trial.

Rustic filming locale Jimbo's Place 'should not be affected' by Virginia Key plan - December 30, 2008 -    The local film community, stressed already by deep slashes to the state's film incentive budget, can rest easy about losing one of its most popular shooting locations, a city official says.

Film industry leaders lobby Florida Legislature to pass stronger film incentives - December 30, 2008 - After cuts reduced Florida's filming incentives by 80%, members of the industry are lobbying the Legislature to pass a bill to restore Florida's competitive edge.

Alexander tells senate to ignore Crist budget solution - December 29, 2008 - IIgnore Gov. Charlie Crist’s budget recommendations that count on Seminole gambling money and make one-time cuts to day-to-day programs to cure Florida’s $2.3 billion budget gap, Senate budget chairman J.D. Alexander is ordering fellow senators.

Gov. Crist removes mosquito control commissioner (with DOCUMENT) - December 29, 2008 - A commissioner for the South Walton Mosquito Control District who had been on suspension since last December has been removed from office.

School has a friend in Legislature - December 29, 2008 - E-mail shows close ties between House Speaker Ray Sansom and Northwest Florida State College, where Sansom landed a job.

Almost one in 10 Floridians on food stamps - December 28, 2008 - Unemployed and strapped for cash, Floridians are asking for state assistance to feed their families in record numbers

Reform judicial nominations - December 28, 2008 - As became evident this month, Florida gives the governor too much power over selecting judges.

Lawmaker: End tax money for candidates - December 27, 2008 - UMATILLA - State Rep. Alan Hays wants Florida to end the practice of giving public money to statewide candidates to help finance their campaigns.

Stop Being Stupid - December 27, 2008 - I’ve got a new year’s resolution and a new slogan for the country.

States slash Medicaid amid economic woes - December 26, 2008 - States from Rhode Island to California are being forced to curtail Medicaid, the government health insurance program for the poor, as they struggle to cope with the deteriorating economy.

Miami-Dade poor defendants face court delays - December 25, 2008 - Miami-Dade's poor defendants will face longer court delays in most cases, as the public defender tries to cope with high caseloads and shrinking budgets.

Refinance rates low; few qualify - December 25, 2008 - Interest rates may have reached their lowest level in nearly 40 years, but that doesn't necessarily spell relief for South Florida's struggling homeowners.

Florida DOT projects set to roll - December 25, 2008 - Obama stimulus plan would deliver $7 billion, help bring jobs to SW Fla.

Gov. Crist : Chiles fund will be repaid fast - December 25, 2008 - Gov. Charlie Crist said Wednesday he tried to make budget cuts as painless as possible in his proposal to plug a $2.3 billion hole in the state's spending plan.

Crist Admits Seminole Deal Has Little Hope - December 24, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE | Gov. Charlie Crist acknowledges there's little chance lawmakers will approve a deal to expand Seminole Indian gaming during a special legislative session next month.

Hispanic Florida Supreme Court hopeful reconsidered - December 24, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE — The third time may be the charm for a Cuban-born judge seeking appointment to the Florida Supreme Court.

Wellington judge talks with Crist as a finalist for spot on the Florida Supreme Court - December 24, 2008 - It was a long drive home to Wellington for Circuit Judge Jorge Labarga Wednesday, returning from a Tallahassee interview with Gov. Charlie Crist and staff as a finalist for a spot on the Florida Supreme Court.

No 'right to know' at nursing homes - December 24, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE - Florida's "right to know" constitutional amendment that lets patients check records of medical mistakes by doctors and hospitals doesn't apply to nursing homes, the Florida Supreme Court ruled Tuesday.

Florida lags in school funding - December 24, 2008 - Florida ranks below the national average for teachers' pay and per pupil spending, according to the 65th annual report from the country's largest teachers' union.

Florida prisons will have new cooks in the kitchen - December 23, 2008 - Florida’s inmates will soon have a new chef in the kitchen. By the second week of January all food served in state prisons will be prepared by state employees and inmates.

State's budget plan: Tap trust funds, increase debt - December 23, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE - Florida legislative leaders and Gov. Charlie Crist have agreed on a basic road map for closing a $2.3 billion budget hole next month by draining trust funds, delaying construction projects and going deeper into debt.

State joblessness on Gov. Crist's agenda - December 23, 2008 - Gov. tells residents to persevere amid economic recession

Up is Down, Down is Up - December 22, 2008 - According to the Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy, here were some of our state's rankings in 2007:

Broward School Board members seek change in No Child Left Behind law - December 22, 2008 - Congress should put the federal No Child Left Behind law's requirements and penalties on hold until it is improved and while school district budgets are tight, Broward School Board members said Tuesday.

Some South Florida elected officials exploit loophole in law to live outside districts they represent - December 21, 2008 - Vague residency rules for elected officials make the question hard to answer

Obama built Cabinet to impose ideas - December 21, 2008 - WASHINGTON - The Cabinet president-elect Barack Obama completed Friday is a largely centrist and pragmatic-minded collection of politicians and technocrats without a pronounced ideological bent.

Biden to oversee efforts aimed at middle class - December 21, 2008 - WASHINGTON -- As vice president, Joe Biden will oversee an Obama administration effort to find ways of building up the ranks of the middle class, that ambiguously defined segment of society most Americans identify with.

Florida wears U.S. corruption crown - December 21, 2008 - Tired of seeing Florida constantly at the bottom of national rankings? Take heart. The Department of Justice says we're No. 1 in one category: corruption.

Gov. Crist led all-out push to save Big Sugar deal - December 21, 2008 - With his Big Sugar deal on shaky ground, Gov. Charlie Crist mounted a hefty political push that shored up the support of South Florida water managers.

Lawmakers cash in with campus jobs - December 21, 2008 - Former and current lawmakers are finding employment at community colleges and state universities, even in times of cutbacks and curbs on enrollment.

Burst bubble pushes Florida jobless rate to 15-year high - December 20, 2008 - Normally, Florida’s jobless rate falls in November as the holiday hiring season gears up. But, as President Bush said this morning, these aren’t normal times.

Unemployment rises - December 20, 2008 - Unemployment is increasing in Florida, but Broward and Miami-Dade are better off than many other parts of the state.

Unemployment Inches Up - December 20, 2008 - Unemployment in Florida inched up three-tenths of a percent in November. 680,000 Floridians are now out of work. As Mike Vasilinda tells us, there are now 200,000 more Floridians out of work than there were a year ago.

A crumbling Florida House - December 19, 2008 - The Democratic leader of the Florida House doesn't look too good this week, but he still looks much better than the Republican speaker.

Spending cuts, gambling pact at heart of state budget plan - December 19, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE — Florida lawmakers can fill a $2.3-billion budget hole by trimming government spending, nearly emptying savings accounts and approving a gambling agreement with the Seminole Tribe of Florida, according to a draft document approved by Gov. Charlie Crist.

Judge Allen to face reprimand by Supreme Court - December 19, 2008 - Rebuke marks end of conflict involving Judge Michael E. Allen

Ethics lacking in both parties - December 18, 2008 - With Republican state House Speaker Ray Sansom under public scrutiny for his ethical lapses, you would think Democrats would be particularly careful about their own conduct. You would be wrong.

Where's the Leadership?- December 18, 2008 - It's a question every Floridian should be asking themselves about our state government these days. We're facing a $2 billion dollar deficit, with an economy that isn't predicted to recover until 2010.

Economists: Florida's economic slide to continue; won't see turnaround until 2010- December 18, 2008 - Florida's economy is going to get worse before it gets better, and lawmakers will have to deal with a $2.3 billion shortfall to balance the $66 billion budget, economists told lawmakers Wednesday.

States Squeeze Cities, Spreading the Economic Pain - December 18, 2008 - The worst budget crisis in decades is forcing states to cut funding to cash-strapped cities, which already are slashing police, firefighters and other services.

DeFede: Hooray, Florida Still #1 For Corruption - December 18, 2008 - Ever since Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich was arrested, there has been a lot of talk about whether Illinois is the most corrupt state in the country.

Hard details in sugar deal - December 18, 2008 - Skeptical lawmakers and a House committee review loom among upcoming hurdles for the state's controversial Big Sugar land buy.

Funds available to aid Florida start-up firms - December 16, 2008 - A fund that gives money to venture capitalists for investments in young Florida firms is accepting applications.

Florida Electoral College Members Choose Obama - December 16, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE (CBS4) ― Members of Florida's Electoral College met on Monday to cast their votes for President-elect Barack Obama. Typically, the Electoral College vote is more ceremonial than anything.

Crist suspends arrested Deerfield Beach mayor - December 16, 2008 - Deerfield Beach Mayor Al Capellini, who was arrested Friday on a felony corruption charge, was suspended Monday from his city position by Gov. Charlie Crist.

Battle Continues Over Miami-Dade Teachers' Raises - December 15, 2008 - Teachers, School Board Members Attend Mediation

Budget concerns put the squeeze on sugar deal - December 15, 2008 - If water managers decide Tuesday to spend $1.34 billion to buy U.S. Sugar's sprawling farm fields, it will require the fiscal equivalent of maxing out the credit card.

Fla. Legislature Meeting In 2009 To Slash Budget - December 15, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE (CBS4) ― In today's economy of budget shortfalls at the private and public level, many experts predicted Florida's legislature would hold a special session to deal with a budget deficit of millions, and Monday the announcement was made official.

Obama's healthcare stimulus plan could bring $1.8B to Florida - December 15, 2008 - Obama's healthcare stimulus plan could bring $1.8B to Florida

Successful insanity defense stuns Miami-Dade attorneys - December 15, 2008 - A Miami-Dade jury reached an extremely rare verdict, finding a Miami man not guilty by reason of insanity of murdering his parents.

Crist Says He Will 'Fight For Florida' - December 13, 2008 - Gov. Charlie Crist reflected this week in an interview with The Tampa Tribune on current controversies, the highs and lows of 2008 and what lies ahead in 2009.

Number of foreclosure filings in Florida among nation's highest - December 13, 2008 - In November, Florida again had the nation's second-highest number of properties with foreclosure filings, RealtyTrac said in a report.

Ros-Lehtinen Talks About Auto Bailout - December 12, 2008 - S. Fla. Representative Voted Against Bill

Judge Rejects State Farm Rate Hike Request - December 12, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- An administrative law judge has rejected a 47.1 percent rate increase request by State Farm Insurance, the state's largest private property insurer.

Crist, critics clash on health plan - December 11, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE - Gov. Charlie Crist's administration on Wednesday signed contracts with six health insurers to offer relatively low-cost, no-frills health-care plans to Florida's nearly 4 million uninsured.

Florida's budget gap surges to $2.3-billion - December 11, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE — As the economy tanks, Florida legislators learned Wednesday that the state's budget deficit has ballooned to $2.3-billion — a $150-million increase in just a matter of weeks due mostly to soaring health care costs. The grim financial picture was laid out in detail during a rare pre-session meeting of the full Senate called by Senate President Jeff Atwater, who told the lawmakers that the state is running out of time and money.

Lawmakers seek to postpone vote on sugar deal - December 11, 2008 - Miami-Dade lawmakers, with a litany of concerns over state's sugar land-purchase deal, asked for a legislative review.

Many Parents Clueless About Newborn Genetic Tests - December 10, 2008 - (WCCO) Each year blood samples are taken from thousands of newborns to screen for more than 50 medical conditions.

Charlie Crist Signs for Florida Health Care - December 10, 2008 - Today, Floridians are one step closer to having the affordable, quality health insurance options they deserve. This morning, six insurers signed contracts with the State of Florida and became authorized to begin selling Cover Florida benefit options in less than one month. Beginning January 5, 2009, Floridians who have been looking for health coverage will have the opportunity to purchase a Cover Florida plan.

Crist defends pricey trade-mission tab - December 9, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE -- Gov. Charlie Crist on Tuesday defended the $430,000 cost of a 12-day European trade mission last summer. The trip, paid for by Florida businesses, cost far more than the original estimate of $255,000, and included $1,300 in room-service charges and $320 for portable electric fans to keep Crist cool, according to an analysis by the Sun Sentinel.

Miami-Dade lawmakers land key appointments - December 9, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE -- From controlling the state's purse strings to corralling Republicans, Miami-Dade's legislators have landed a few top spots in the state House and Senate that underscore South Florida's clout.

Gov. Crist Announces $11.5 Million To Help Florida Homeowners - December 8, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Governor Charlie Crist announced Monday that Florida has received nearly $11.5 million to continue providing statewide foreclosure prevention counseling and legal assistance to homeowners in foreclosure.

School Board Considers Abandoning $85M Computer Upgrade - December 4, 2008 - Computer Project Exceeds Budget, Misses Deadlines

Educators to state: Put your money where your mouth is - December 4, 2008 - Florida legislators should back up their talk about quality education with larger appropriations, the school chiefs' association president said.

Rep. Ros-Lehtinen Hangs Up On Obama, Emmanuel - December 3, 2008 - MIAMI -- Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen hung up on President-elect Barack Obama and chief of staff designate Rahm Emmanuel on Wednesday, thinking the calls were a joke.

FPL customers to see small decrease in bills - December 3, 2008 - State regulators approved a slight reduction in the monthly bills of Florida Power & Light customers starting next month, due to a decrease in fuel charges.

U.S. Sugar deal is 'bad business,' water managers told - December 3, 2008 - Water managers were urged to take a step back and reassess the $1.34 billion Everglades land deal between the state and U.S. Sugar.

Some banks to delay foreclosure sales - December 2, 2008 - The Florida Bankers' Association agreed to a 45-day pause in scheduling foreclosure sales of homesteaded homes. But the agreement doesn't bind banks to any action.

$8 million awarded in North Miami Beach shooting death - November 26, 2008 - A Miami-Dade jury found that inadequate security contributed to a fatal shooting at a North Miami Beach apartment complex.

Crist Working on Moratorium - November 25 - 2008 -Governor meets with officials in an attempt to freeze foreclosures.

Judge Bars Lawyer From Doing Debt Consolidation Work - November 25 - 2008 - MIAMI -- A south Florida lawyer is out of business, but thousands of her former customers are getting a gift for the holidays.

Crist scales back holiday foreclosure moratorium plan - November 25 - 2008 - TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Charlie Crist expects to give a holiday gift to homeowners facing foreclosure - some help to postpone any action until next year. But the present is one they already have.

Miami Judge Rules Against Fla. Gay Adoption Ban - November 25, 2008 - MIAMI -- Florida's strict law banning adoption of children by gay people was found unconstitutional Tuesday by a state judge who declared there was no legal or scientific reason for sexual orientation alone to prohibit anyone from adopting.

Fla. governor embraces college tuition increases - November 21, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Gov. Charlie Crist's plan for Florida's public universities veers away from his previous opposition to raising tuition, allowing for increases of up to 15 percent a year. But a top Democratic lawmaker said it's the wrong time for that course as people struggle with foreclosures and layoffs.

Sen. Nelson: Press Iran on missing S. Floridian - November 21, 2008 - WASHINGTON -- Florida Sen. Bill Nelson is calling on Congress to press Iran to divulge more information about Robert Levinson, a retired FBI agent who went missing in 2007 from a Persian Gulf island.

Governor's tuition plan gets mixed reception - November 21, 2008 - Gov. Charlie Crist's tuition-raising plan is being hailed by state university presidents, questioned by Democrats and tepidly endorsed by Republicans.

Florida could borrow from tobacco fund - November 21, 2008 - The governor wants to consider covering part of the state deficit by borrowing from the tobacco settlement fund.

Gov. Crist still may borrow from Fla. tobacco fund - November 20, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Gov. Charlie Crist said he still may propose borrowing from the state's tobacco settlement trust fund to help avoid a budget deficit even after getting a report Thursday that the fund has lost nearly $600 million due to the declining stock market.

We think: Crist, lawmakers need to work now to balance the budget - November 20, 2008 - How low can they go? That seems to be the only suspense surrounding the official forecast of Florida tax revenues due Friday.

Florida high court ends Escambia tax case - November 20, 2008 - Supreme Court denies rehearing in battle over $135M bond issue

Sugar land price still $400 million too high, consultant says - November 19, 2008 - A 'fairness opinion' from a financial consultant undercuts the state's $1.34 billion bid for sugar lands by nearly 30 percent.

New Florida Legislature leaders face budget challenges - November 18, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE -- Acknowledging the state's challenging fiscal crisis, Florida legislators voted in two new Republican leaders for the next two-year term on Tuesday.

Florida's pension fund takes hit, but it's still above water - November 18, 2008 - Even though the state's public employee pension fund decreased 27 percent over the past 13 months, plan administrators says Florida's still better off than most states.

25 states compensate the wrongfully convicted - Novermber 18, 2008 - Twenty-five states and the District of Columbia have laws that provide compensation for the wrongfully convicted:

Land deal could lift U.S. Sugar's sagging fortunes - ovember 15, 2006 - Is it a buyout or a bailout? Either way, a pending deal to sell land to the state for Everglades restoration could reverse Big Sugar's flagging finances.

Federal grants to be used to buy up South Florida foreclosures - November 14, 2008 - South Florida governments are gearing up to spend more than $161 million in federal grant money to stimulate the housing market.

Aventura commissioner proposes help for struggling condo associations - November 14, 2008 - Foreclosures are having an impact on condo associations in Aventura, and commissioners want the Florida Legislature to do something to help.

U.S. Sugar deal draws water managers' concern - November 13, 2008 - The governor may be sweet on the new Big Sugar deal, but the water managers he appointed still have plenty of reservations.

Florida leaders in denial about budget problem, Sink says - November 8, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE — Florida Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink suggested Friday that the state's Republican leaders are in denial about the dire economy and they should call a special legislative session now to deal with the impact on the state budget.

State wants to borrow up to $1.25B to cover basics - November 8, 2008 - TALLAHASSEE - Florida's cash crunch is so severe that budget officials are asking Gov. Charlie Crist for permission to borrow up to $1.25 billion from trust funds to pay for basic services.

Gov. Crist calls for business tax cuts - November 8, 2008 - Gov. Charlie Crist toured City Furniture's headquarters and cited the company as an example of business success.

Florida banks well-capitalized, ready to lend, bankers association says - Novermber 6, 2008 - According to the Florida Bankers Association, banks in Florida are well-capitalized and ready to lend.

Onslaught of dirty tricks as election day nears
In the final hours of the campaign, bogus fliers, e-mails and calls increase

Election Deception: The Web's 12 Dirtiest Tricks
If scammers have things their way -- with the help of a dozen sneaky ploys -- plenty of ballots will never make it to the boxes.

General News Grouped Together

The Florida Amendments

Who's Up for Election

Democratic challenger aiming for Ros-Lehtinen upset

Ileana Ros-Lehtinen rising above party's ills