August's Ten Most Read, Talked About Stories

From outrage over raises awarded to school administrators, a brutal murder, and the tragic loss of three beloved community members, there were many stories in the month of August that grabbed readers' attentions and provoked conversations.

Here are the 10 most read and commented news articles this month.

1. : The news of the death of Lynbrook Schools Superintendent Dr. Santo Barbarino shocked and saddened the Lynbrook community and many others who knew and loved him. More than 60 readers reacted to the tragedy by posting beautiful tributes and comments reflecting on their memories of "Dr. B" and his lasting impact.
2. : A West Hempstead man was arrested earlier this month and charged with the murder of another West Hempsteader after he allegedly beat him to death outside National Wholesale Liquidators. The news prompted several readers to comment about the luxury apartments that are being constructed across the street and pockets of crime in the community.
3. : In July, the managers of Associated Supermarket in Malverne, the only grocer in the village, decided to close. Then, one day later, vowed to stay. But on Aug. 15, they changed their minds again and shut down the store, sparking more than 50 comments from Patch readers, some upset about the closure, others happy to see them go.
4. : Steps away from where a man was brutally murdered roughly one week before, shots were fired inside a lounge in West Hempstead, injuring two victims and spurring more conversation among readers about the safety of their community.
5. : Outraged that the Malverne School Board granted raises to the district's top administrators and a contract extension to its superintendent without conducting evaluations and consulting the community, more than 100 residents signed an online petition requesting the board to rescind both. The story led to a lively debate, garnering more than 90 comments from readers.
6. : A West Hempstead man allegedly drove all the way to Shoreham, where he was caught by a Suffolk County Police allegedly engaging in sex acts with an underage boy in his car.
7. : Nassau Land Trust, the non-profit that runs the farm in Malverne that Nassau County purchased in order to preserve it, put out an urgent plea for donations this month, explaining that it will need financial support until the farm becomes self-sustaining. More than a dozen residents responded with ideas on how the farm can generate more revenue and exposure.
8. : Antonio Bove is trying to open a third food business in the village of Malverne inside the vacant building that once housed the Cork N' Board restaurant. But when he went before the village board with his proposal for the first time, he was met with some concerns on whether the area had adequate parking to support his plan. So far, 50 readers have commented on the story, expressing both concerns and support for the business, and debating the future of Malverne's business district.
9. : The village of Malverne learned earlier this month of the sudden loss of its long-time Village Justice James Dougherty, who was serving his seventh term in office when he suffered a fall that led to his death weeks ago. A number of readers reflected on Dougherty's contributions to the community on Patch, including Former Mayor Tony Panzarella, who wrote, "He was an outstanding judge, and one of the most decent human beings I have ever known." 
10. : The news of Judge Dougherty's death came weeks after Malverne learned of the passing of another beloved community member. Harold Petersen touched many lives in Malverne serving as a fire chief, deli owner and coach. Malverne Mayor Patricia Norris McDonald and Fire Chief Scott Edwards reflected on the loss of Petersen as did friends and family who posted their thoughts on Patch.

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