"It's been a very interesting year," said U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman, as he addressed the crowd at his annual holiday party at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point last month. Congressman Ackerman spoke of a "difficult year" and he spoke of "personal enemies, not political opponents ... and it's not right." The congressman stated "We need to all pull together, work hand-in-hand for our country and for the world." FULL STORY

Most people do not get the chance to hear a president speak in person. In fact, it would seem even rarer for high school students to have this privilege. However, on Nov. 10, South High social studies teacher Lynda Good along with seniors Jeffrey Baily, Emily Glazer, Stephanie Kim, Brandon Muller, Laika Simeon and Michael Tommasiello went to Hofstra's 11th Presidential Conference titled "William Jefferson Clinton: 'The New Democrat' From Hope." FULL STORY

Abilities, formerly the National Center for Disability Services, an independent, multi-faceted nonprofit organization based in Albertson was named by the Knickerbocker Foundation as the beneficiary of their 2005 Knickerbocker Cup. FULL STORY

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, along with seven other institutions made the announcement of their decision to create a new NCAA Division III conference in mid-December 2005. FULL STORY