The Sewanhaka Central High School District Board of Education moved a step closer to resolving the abandoned Alva T. Stanforth (ATS) building and its surrounding property when it passed a resolution to keep the 20 acres of property and develop it all for athletic fields, meaning the former junior high school would be torn down. The plan would have to be approved by voters of the district, which includes residents of Elmont, Franklin Square, Floral Park and New Hyde Park, through a referendum. Sewanhaka School Board President Martin Cernese said it is unlikely the plan would go out to a referendum before the budget vote in May. FULL STORY

A standing room only crowd of 300 people gathered together to witness the swearing-in of Assemblyman Tom Alfano as he took his oath of office for the 21st district in the State Assembly. Alfano, surrounded by his family, was sworn-in by State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Dean Skelos. Also attending the ceremony were State Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno and Senators Chuck Fuschillo, Pat McGee, Carl Marcellino, John Flanagan, Kemp Hannon and Olga Mendez. State Parks Commissioner Bernadette Castro, Insurance Commissioner Greg Serio, Secretary of State Randy Daniels and Assemblyman Steve Labriola were also on hand for the event. FULL STORY