As the Legislature is seemingly overrun by efforts to steady the county's fiscal standing, it was able to unanimously pass a piece of legislation last week that would facilitate bringing firsthand experiences into the classrooms of Nassau County's schools. FULL STORY

In an effort to discourage adolescents from smoking, New York State Senator Michael Balboni is launching a campaign whereby students in grades 5-8 sign a pledge promising to avoid cigarettes and tobacco. FULL STORY

Recently, the 2nd annual NYS G45 Chess Championship was held at Adelphi University, in Garden City. There were 203 players of all strengths and ages participating in different sections ­ from the world's best to kindergarteners just learning the game. A $2,000 prize fund, 30 grand prix points, and 42 trophies and medals, were awarded, with the tournament drawing players from as far away as Connecticut and New Jersey and upstate New York. FULL STORY