In the opening days of the state budget battle, the budget axe chopped several programs aimed at giving students access to college. Assemblyman Tom Alfano was one legislator who said those kind of cuts were "dead on arrival." Alfano was as good as his word as news spread that the state budget enacted this past week would restore and save programs like college loans, TAP, Bundy Aid and Regents Scholarships. FULL STORY

The Stewart Manor Fire Department will host the first battalion parade and block party Sunday, Sept. 5 beginning at 5 p.m. and proceeding through the streets of the village. A barbecue will follow in the municipal parking lot next to the firehouse. Food, music, games and antique fire trucks will be on hand. Senator Michael Balboni and Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy are among local dignitaries slated to attend. FULL STORY