Politicians and citizens alike once again publicly criticized the Metropolitan Transportation Authority/Long Island Rail Road's (MTA/LIRR) failure to "think outside the box." They stood united against the controversial proposal to construct an additional track along the LIRR Main Line. Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray held the press conference at the Floral Park Train Station Aug. 31, the deadline for filing public comments for inclusion in the official MTA third track project record. To date, 85 local organizations and public officials oppose the project. FULL STORY

Dedicatedd, a local organization that works to eliminate drunk-driving, and Bartenders Against Drunk Driving (BADD) joined with survivors of drunk-driving accidents and families who have relatives of alcohol-related crashes in announcing Aug. 31 a series of efforts to raise funds and awareness as Labor Day Weekend neared. FULL STORY

The Garden City High School fields were filled with students, coaches and staff Monday, Aug. 29 ... the first day of fall sports. There was much anticipation and high expectations for a great academic and athletic school year. FULL STORY

Due to popular demand, the recreation department will again offer an adult pastel class taught by Arleen Ruth Urban. This class is open to adult village residents. The class will run from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays beginning Sept. 9. The classes will be held in Cluett Hall at St. Paul's. The registration fee for this program is $105. A list of art supplies to be purchased will be given out at the first class. FULL STORY