A budget cut passed by the Sewanhaka Central High School District back in May still has parents up in arms, and has led to contentious school board meetings and threats of disruption from irate residents. more

Each year, drunken drivers cause deadly accidents and claim innocent lives. Their stories often become local and sometimes national lore, cautioning others about the potentially deadly consequences of a crime that some see as socially acceptable. But there is another type of loss that goes with drinking and driving, I recently learned. One that may be considered insensitive or politically incorrect to discuss. Three defense attorneys I interviewed saw the possible loss of one's reputation and even future employment as an unfair fate that befalls many of their clients. I contacted the lawyers after the Nassau County Police Department and the district attorney's office gave me a firsthand look at what a DWI arrest entails. Police simulated my arrest for DWI, including everything from handcuffing me to locking me up. Later, the district attorney's office brought me to District Court, where I took a tour of holding cells, courtrooms and assistant district attorneys' offices. I wrote about the experience for Herald readers. But as I spoke with defense lawyers, expecting to hear mainly about the financial burden of a DWI conviction, I learned that some of the most serious consequences for the convicted are harder to quantify. more

Kevin McDermott gives the word "determination" a new definition. The Chaminade and Duke alumnus, just 22, suffered a life-changing accident in July, and has shown a tremendous strength of will in his efforts to prevail over his severe injury. Many of his friends are taking action to help. more

President Obama is asking Gov. David Paterson, a fellow Democrat, to withdraw from the governor’s race, according to The New York Times. Paterson should consider obliging. As a matter of fact, why bother waiting until 2010? He should consider stepping down now. more

The Franklin Square Chamber of Commerce, led by President Mary Seifert, is getting ready for a new season of spending in the community by preparing to launch its discount card program aggressively in the coming months. more

As summer fades to a memory and the leaves start to turn, civic-minded local residents are beginning to think about election season. more

Eight years ago to the day, hundreds of people had gathered at Lido Beach Park and watched the clear, sunny sky in the distance fill with black clouds of dark smoke from the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. more

Just a nice little musical video from Long Beach. more

In recognition of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month, which aims to increase the community’s understanding of the grief associated with the loss of an unborn or newborn child, Winthrop-University Hospital’s Perinatal Bereavement Team will host the sixth annual Walk to Remember on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 9 a.m. at Field 5 of Eisenhower Park in East Meadow. more

The elementary school teacher already accused of a sex crime now faces charges in two counties. more