An Elmont resident went before the Village of Floral Park's board of trustees Tuesday night in hopes of being granted a special use permit for public assembly. Lauren Walsh, the applicant, would like to open a dance/performing arts studio at 280 Jericho Turnpike, a longtime vacant building in the village. Walsh filed an affidavit, according to Mayor Ann Corbett, notifying surrounding neighbors within a 200-foot radius about her application. FULL STORY

The first week of the new year brought with it the inaugurations of newly elected and re-elected officials for the Town of Hempstead. On Jan. 4, local residents gathered in Hempstead Town Hall to celebrate the inaugurations of Supervisor Rich Guardino, Councilmembers Anthony Santino, Dorothy Goosby and Gary Hudes, Town Clerk Kate Murray and Receiver of Taxes Donald X. Clavin, Jr. FULL STORY

Children and parents were on hand recently to hear Assemblyman Tom Alfano announce the enactment of the Scooter Helmet Law in New York State. Alfano announced Governor George Pataki's signing of the bill and discussed the importance of wearing a helmet when riding a scooter. FULL STORY

Adam Wagner of Floral Park Boy Scout Troop 482 will be holding a bicycle helmet collection for his Eagle Project. New or gently used helmets will be donated to Project Challenge of Long Beach, that will then distribute the helmets to those in need of one. Wagner is asking for people to assist him by donating a helmet to help in preventing head injuries. Wagner feels that if his Eagle Project can help prevent just one injury then it will have been worthwhile. Adult and children helmets are needed. FULL STORY