News Nearby: Courage Award For Grief-Stricken Family

Here’s a look at some of the top stories that made headlines this week in and around your community.

Miller Place-Rocky Point

Specht Family Honored with Courage Award

In honoring the courage of a brave little girl who in the face of cancer showed optimism and fortitude another brave family was honored as well.

Three Village

Ward Melville Principal: ‘Backpack Search Part of Quarterly Protocol’

Students at Ward Melville High School were subject to a backpack search Friday morning as they entered the school that principal Alan Baum said is part of the school’s annual security protocols.

Port Jefferson

Closure of Rose Lane Jams Traffic in Port Jeff Station

Local residents lamenting traffic jams due to the Rose Lane closure will likely be feeling the pain for the upcoming weeks. The Rose Lane closure began in July and according to the State Department of Transportation, it is expected to continue throughout fall, with no end date specified.

Sayville-Bayport

Fed Shutdown Shutters Fire Island Beaches, Lighthouse
The federal government shutdown has closed all local national parks, including Sunken Forest and Sailor’s Haven on Fire Island, as well as the Fire Island Lighthouse, and is having a negative ripple impact on the local economy as ferry and concession operators have had to halt service and retail sales.

Sachem

Bats At Nokomis? Mother of 8-Year-Old Bite Victim Says Yes

An eight-year-old Nokomis Elementary student is undergoing a series of rabies shots over the next week after she suffered what may have been a bat bite while using the bathroom stall at Nokomis.

Patchogue

Patchogue Group Mulls Bench Dedication For Local Volunteer

The Greater Patchogue Foundation Beautification Committee is considering dedicating its next public bench after Connie Fucillo, a long-time volunteer who lent her services to the Patchogue Theater for years.