Birdie buddy [Times photo: Dan McDuffie] Birdie, a 2-year-old Quaker parakeet, cleans itself while sitting on Ed Peterson's shoulder. The pair were taking a ride Tuesday on Peterson's wheelchair around Lake Zephyr in Zephyrhills. Peterson says Birdie can say "hello" and occasionally likes to bite him.

Agencies are spared cuts from United Way
PORT RICHEY -- While social service agencies in Hillsborough and Pinellas face budget cuts from withering United Way funds, their Pasco County counterparts can breathe a sigh of relief this year.

Schools may drop morning soda ban
Because teens have found ways to thwart vending machine timers, administrators want to extend the hours for soda sales, which funnel money into school programs.

3-1 vote benefits commissioner
A land use measure affecting Commissioner Ted Schrader's property passes 3-1.

Local experience bodes well for manager choice
As a former local public administrator, Harold Sample's selection as the next Dade City manager is getting rave reviews.

Elaborate try to beat drug test foiled
An 18-year-old turns to an odd device to pass a drug test but never gets to use it.

Sparks fly over police accusation
A City Council meeting is disrupted by an angry exchange between a Port Richey resident and the police chief.

Inmate charged with smuggling pills
NEW PORT RICHEY -- Ten Pasco County inmates were sent to the hospital on Wednesday morning after a 28-year-old inmate gave them Xanax he had smuggled into the jail, said sheriff's spokesman Jon Powers.

Royal Knights lifters looking toward future
River Ridge is sending seven to state and getting ready for next year.

Area stars Phillips, Simpson moving to next level at PHCC
Wesley Chapel's David Simpson and Gulf's Joe Phillips are expected to fit in well with Pasco-Hernando's style.

McDermott steps up at Zephyrhills
Former assistant takes over as wrestling coach.

Nothing is in Alford's way
Without spring football to worry about, Pasco's Ben Alford can focus on getting to the state meet in the pole vault.

Judge hears case of strippers' arrest
NEW PORT RICHEY -- A judge heard arguments Wednesday on whether undercover sheriff's deputies can pose as customers in adult entertainment clubs for the purpose of arresting exotic dancers on lewd-conduct charges.

Driver killed in head-on crash
An unidentified man in a Honda crosses the center line of State Road 54, and the driver of an oncoming dump truck is unable to avoid the car.

Police reports: Man is accused of wielding stun gun
HOLIDAY -- A 58-year-old New Port Richey man was arrested Monday after he threatened another man with a stun gun, according to the Pasco Sheriff's Office.

Letters: Best way to protest improper use of flag: Close your wallet
Re: In midst of patriotic burst, remember to treat flag well, April 20 editorial: