News by Deborah Williams
News by Deborah Williams on South Shore Press
Suffolk County Fireman Relates to California Wildfires
SSP spoke with Bill Biondi, Commissioner of the Mastic Beach Fire Department, about preparedness, forest management, physical demands, and family concerns for their loved ones as they are out there fighting the fire.
William Floyd School District Innovates in Teaching Civics and Government
William Floyd School District (WFSD) is a statewide leader in teaching government and civics from sixth through high school. Whether it is teaching the basics of how government works, the art of compromise, getting along with people with a different POV, or learning about media bias – WFSD is getting it done.
William Floyd Students Learn About How Government Works
They are learning that you can disagree with another person and still like them. And, more importantly, they are learning that you can engage in respectful discourse and even learn a little from someone you think is “wrong-headed”.
Rough Condition of New York’s Roads and Bridges Costs You Money
TRIP examined the condition, use, efficiency, and safety of the state’s surface transportation. Overall, the study found continued deterioration in the state’s infrastructure, which has led to rising costs for drivers.
Lee Zeldin Sits for EPA Administrator Senate Confirmation Hearings
Zeldin was not treated as harshly as Attorney General nominee, Pam Bondi. He was pressed on whether he believes climate change is real and on issues around drilling and car emission requirements, but, by and large, the hearing was respectful.
Biden Tried to Change the Constitution Leading Up to the Inauguration
On Biden’s way out the door, just three days before President Trump was inaugurated, Biden made an announcement on X/Twitter declaring the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) - the 28th Amendment – was the law of the land.
On Attempting to Watch the Inauguration in a Hotel Bar
I asked at the front desk if the inauguration would be on in the bar. They said, "You’ll have to ask the bartender. He controls the TV.”
Hunters, Fisherman, and Gun Owners Left Out of New York’s Automatic Voter Registration Law
During debate on the Senate floor, it became clear that the law excludes certain groups of potential voters who also interact with state registration agencies on applications and checks. Hunters, fishermen, and gun owners are specifically excluded.
State Conservatives: Governor Hochul ‘Lays an Egg’ at 2025 State of the State Address
There are over 200 proposals in the State of the State book including programs ranging from a Baby Benefit paying women $100 a month during pregnancy and $1,200 upon birth, child care funding, and free community college for students ages 25-55 in certain needed fields.
WFHS Senior Nominated for Prestigious U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
Victoria Basharina, a senior at William Floyd High School, has been selected as one of just 25 New York State nominees for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students who represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in the leaders of tomorrow.
Suffolk County Legislature Organizes for 2025
The Suffolk County Legislature held its annual Organizational Meeting, where Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst) and Deputy Presiding Officer Steven Flotteron (R-West Islip) were unanimously re-elected.
Suffolk County Wins Millions in State Regional Economic Development Awards
Empire State Development (ESD) announced more than $11 million has been awarded to support over 100 economic development projects through three programs during Round XIV of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative.
Hochul Unveils Free School Lunch and Breakfast Program
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a free breakfast and lunch program for more than 2.7 million students in New York.
Upcoming (French) Horn Festival Celebrates 20th Anniversary
More than 100 Suffolk County students will perform at the 20th Annual Day of (French) Horn Festival. Student musicians from Suffolk County schools will join together to celebrate the unique instrument - the French Horn.
Not the First Brush With Death for Suffolk County Police Officer
Officer Gallagher is no stranger to on-the-job danger and serious injury. Just two years ago, Gallagher was being released from the Stony Brook University Hospital after being stabbed while responding to a call about an argument between roommates.
NY’s Reparations Commission Blew Millions of Dollars, Wants Millions More
New York’s Community Commission on Reparations Remedies has asked for more time and money from the legislature to study and complete a report on the impacts of slavery and systemic racism.
Hochul Proposes Tripling of the Child Tax Credit
Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed tripling the Child Tax Credit for children under four years old and doubling the average tax credit for all families. Hochul released the proposal in advance of her upcoming State of the State 2025 address.
NYS to Ban Toll Evaders From the Thruway
There are 570 miles of NYS Thruway between Buffalo and New York City and if you are a serial toll evader get ready to be banned – maybe even have your vehicle impounded.
Rules For Thee, But Not For Me – Hochul Racks Up Private Plane Miles
Governor Kathy Hochul racked up a boatload of private plane miles while at the same time issuing dictates to average New Yorkers that they should not, and even cannot, use fossil fuels themselves.
Republican Senators say, ”Wait a minute” on Hochul Rebate Plan
The refund would return about $3 billion to New York taxpayers in direct payments to around 8.6 million New York taxpayers statewide in 2025. Those eligible would receive payments of $300 to single taxpayers who make up to $150,000 per year, and a payment of $500 for joint tax filers making up to $300,000 per year.
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Heavy Police Presence at William Floyd Varsity Girls' Track Meet
As more and more attention has been thrust upon the William Floyd Girls’ Track Team, so has the caution within the William Floyd School District.
Muslim Cemetery on Hold for East Moriches
Town hears it from residents, puts Muslim cemetery on hold pending further review.
After the Inferno: A Reporter’s Dispatch from the Ruins
After the Flames: South Shore Press Reporter Robert Chartuk Walks Through the Wreckage.