Government Shutdown Ends; Homecoming Ahead

Good morning, Commack. Here's a look at what you should know about today.

• It's official. The U.S. Senate voted 81-18 Wednesday night to end the 16-day government shutdown. The House then voted 285 to 144 to approve the Senate plan, which will funds the government through mid-January. It will also raise the debt limit through Feb. 7, 2014.

• Congressman Steve Israel (D-Dix Hills) spoke with Anderson Cooper after the vote and said that he wants for Congress to find a "middle ground" and move forward with issues such as Medicare, jobs, immigration and balancing its budgets responsibly. We'll have more on this story later this morning.

• Commack High School will celebrate Homecoming Saturday. To get in school spirit, students will dress up in their favorite decade-themed outfits from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s today. The Homecoming Dance begins at 7 p.m. Friday evening and the parade will start at noon Saturday with the kickoff at 2:30 p.m.

• Speaking of undefeated teams, Commack is off to a stellar fall sports season. Boys cross country is undefeated, and the girls soccer and girls gymnastics teams are both in first place. The boys soccer team has also already scored a spot in the playoffs.