Each year, drunken drivers cause deadly accidents and claim innocent lives. Their stories often become local and sometimes national lore, cautioning others about the potentially deadly consequences of a crime that some see as socially acceptable. But there is another type of loss that goes with drinking and driving, I recently learned. One that may be considered insensitive or politically incorrect to discuss. Three defense attorneys I interviewed saw the possible loss of one's reputation and even future employment as an unfair fate that befalls many of their clients. I contacted the lawyers after the Nassau County Police Department and the district attorney's office gave me a firsthand look at what a DWI arrest entails. Police simulated my arrest for DWI, including everything from handcuffing me to locking me up. Later, the district attorney's office brought me to District Court, where I took a tour of holding cells, courtrooms and assistant district attorneys' offices. I wrote about the experience for Herald readers. But as I spoke with defense lawyers, expecting to hear mainly about the financial burden of a DWI conviction, I learned that some of the most serious consequences for the convicted are harder to quantify. more

The rain did not deter hundreds of runners from participating in the South Nassau Communities Hospital 5K Run on Sunday, Sept. 27. more

The Institute for Interfaith Dialogue and the Institute for Irish Studies at Molloy College will host "Our Common Heritage," a collaborative presentation on Nov. 15 at 3 p.m. in the Hays Theatre of the Wilbur Arts Center on the Rockville Centre campus. more

Emily Margaret Ertz, of Oceanside, will skate in the ICEtravaganza. more

Kevin McDermott gives the word "determination" a new definition. The Chaminade and Duke alumnus, just 22, suffered a life-changing accident in July, and has shown a tremendous strength of will in his efforts to prevail over his severe injury. Many of his friends are taking action to help. more

South Shore Audubon will have a Halloween party for children on Saturday, Oct. 17. It will include live animals, arts and crafts and snacks. The party will be at the Tackapausha Museum and Preserve on Washington Avenue in Seaford from 1 to 3 p.m. more

On Oct. 18, the Nassau Amateur Radio Club will be open for both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to talk to other scouts and scout leaders around the world. more

Although it is the most common form of cancer in the United States, it is also one of the most preventable, and treatable, forms of cancer when detected early. more

The Long Island Power Authority announced on Sept. 25 that it would not purchase the Barrett Power Plant in Island Park. more

Molloy College Film Festival will present a free series of films, open to the public, on the theme of mental illness with screenings on three dates, each at 5 p.m. First film is on Oct. 1. more