It has been five years since the attack that replaced the Twin Towers with Ground Zero and in one workday morning forever changed the world. The annual September 11 Memorial Service sponsored by area clergy was again a reminder that while all have had their worldview shattered, some have shattered personal lives as well. It is still the most powerful moment in the ceremony, when individuals are invited to ascend the steps of the gazebo and voice the name of a loved one-parent, child, spouse, relative, friend or co-worker-and the line is always way too long. FULL STORY

On Nov. 12, 2005 John McConnell, of Manhasset, was riding his bike to meet his friend and coach, Tim McNamara, also from Manhasset. Six days earlier Alan Schwartz of Port Washington had achieved his goal of finishing his first marathon, and planned to meet up with John and Tim that morning for an easy run now that marathon training was over. FULL STORY

Local sailor, John Thomson, and his crew on board Infinity, raced in the 2006 Rolex Farr 40 World Championship in Newport, RI Sept. 6-9. Thomson's crew included Peter Stalkus (tactician), Tony Reaper, Robbie Oldmeadow, Paul Cuneo, Ronnie Saccardo, Sean McNeill, Sayard Benvenuti, Matt Fries, and Mac Manion. Other local sailors included two boats from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point. Pete Must and his crew on Nimbus, won the Service Academy Trophy. The other entry representing USMMA was Solution, helmed by Jeremiah Lyons, with Ralf Steitz as tactician. FULL STORY