It was one of those magical days when the wind made the United States flag and the Olympic flag that flew above Great Neck North High School wave in sync against a sparkling blue sky. As the parade for Olympic gold winner, Sarah Hughes, meandered through Great Neck, the love and admiration for her and all the fine things she represents, was palpable. Along with the expensive professional banners, there were homemade signs, cheers and squeals of delight and the universal comments were, "It's so great to have something so positive to celebrate! This is about family. This is about community. This is about reaching for a dream!" FULL STORY

The Great Neck Public Schools' board of education proposed a $123,512,000 budget for the 2002-2003 school year. Board of Education Vice President Barbara Berkowitz, presiding at the March 4 board meeting, termed this preliminary working budget a ''continuation budget ... a continuation of the level of excellence in our schools.'' (Ms. Berkowitz noted that she was presiding as Board President Judi Bosworth was in Albany "on school district business.'') FULL STORY

The fleet-footed Rob Freeman was not always "On the Right Track." Four years ago, I was given the opportunity to start working with Rob, a senior now at Great Neck South High School. His parents, Scott and Barbara Freeman, insisted Rob occupy his time after school with something other than skateboarding and hanging out. I don't believe they knew what they were in store for when they made that decision, or where that decision would take their son. While I recognized his abilities early on, convincing others would be a task in itself. I fondly remember trying to tell others this kid had something special, and many simply looked at me, like I was a few seconds short of a minute and we all know how important seconds are in the world of track. However, four years later there is no need for me to convince anyone that this amiable young runner has proven he has what it takes to turn it on, on the track. FULL STORY

"Walk with Words" is a weekly group where people come together to walk, have fun, and share their struggles while getting motivated to develop a healthier lifestyle. Dr. Virginia Porcello, director of Solutions Program for Eating Disorders, will give motivational advice and explore your feelings in a group setting. If you are struggling with obesity, binge eating, diabetes, or heart disease, join us Wednesday and Saturday mornings at Eisenhower Park (Parking Field #1) or Roosevelt Field Mall during inclement weather, from 8 to 9 a.m. Co-sponsored by the American Diabetes Association. Small fee. Call l-516-625-9181 today to register. FULL STORY