Throughout Hicksville this week, flags were flown at half-staff in honor of local hero Cpl. Kevin T. Kolm, a member of the United States Marine Corps who was killed on April 13 while fighting in Iraq on behalf of his country. FULL STORY

After nearly one year of research and consideration, the Board of Commissioners of the Hicksville Fire District weighed all its options and approved a renovation project to address the severe overcrowded conditions and safety concerns at Station #2. Hicksville Fire Commissioners William McKee and Joseph Giardina met with the Hicksville Illustrated News earlier this week to discuss plans to move forward with the expansion of Station #2. A motion to authorize the improvement project at the existing 48-year-old firehouse, located at the intersection of Woodbury Road and Briggs Street, was approved 3-1 during a meeting last week by the five-member board; Chairman Robert Dwyer abstained from the vote. ] FULL STORY

For The Starlets, the 33-member Hicksville High School kickline team, each season demands many long hours of rehearsal, competition, coordination and precision. The team has garnered many trophies over the years, but because of the large amount of time and dedication to dance, a sense of team spirit and camaraderie is fostered. After performing with each other for four years, all of this came together for the Starlets as they now add another title to their collection - First-time National Champions! FULL STORY

The South Shore Audubon Society will sponsor a Sunday Morning Bird Walk on May 16 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Massapequa Preserve (parking lot of the LIRR Massapequa Station, northeast corner.) Members and non-members are welcome. Join a group of friendly birders who will share their knowledge with anyone interested in this fast growing "hobby." Walks are held every Sunday morning at varying locations, except in inclement weather. Bring binoculars. For additional information and/or directions to the walk, call Elliott at 486-7667. FULL STORY