Politics & Government

LIRR Expecting Delays Into Wednesday

Morning commute to be troubled; Tonight is Candidate's Forum at Plainview Middle School

is not expected to return to normal service until at least Wednesday, meaning at least another full day of cancellations and packed trains.

Just after midnight Tuesday, there were no planned cancellations westbound on the Ronkonkoma or Port Jefferson lines, the two branches running through Hicksville station. But other branches will be affected this morning.

The problem is attributed to the aftermath of a derailed Amtrak train in an East River tunnel shared by both railroads, according to the MTA. The stricken train has been righted, but the track has suffered extensive damage, MTA reported.

Find out what's happening in Plainviewwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Each day the "5 Things" column will tell you five essential pieces of information you need to know today, like events happening or community topics being covered on the site later on in the day. Have an event or topic that should appear in this column? Add it to the calendar or send us a news tip.

Tuesday's highlights are:

Find out what's happening in Plainviewwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

1. The LIRR will reduce the number of trains normally operating into Penn Station during the morning rush by about one-quarter. Tuesday morning, 22 of the 98 trains will be canceled, terminated or diverted. Customers are urged to allow extra travel time and expect scattered 10- to 20- minute delays. Commuters should check the MTA's website for the latest information on delays and cancelations at www.mta.info.

2. Tuesday night is "Candidates Night" at the , from  7–9 p.m. Three school board candidates vying for two positions will take questions from the public. Tuesday's event will be moderated by the League of Women Voters.

3. In celebration of Yom HaAtzmaut (Israeli Independence Day,) presents "Impressions of Israel:  featuring artistic and creative images of the sights of Israel: the people, shopping, nature, foods, landscapes, buildings and more with personal commentaries from the artists themselves. This week-long event is free and open to the general public.

4. is holding an open house Tuesday from 7:30–9:00 p.m., where prospective members can meet the Temple's Rabbi, Cantor, Director of Education, educators, and current members. It's a great way to become acquainted with members of the Reform Synagogue.

5. Did you read about the WTC artifact that is coming to Plainview as a centerpiece of a memorial park? We also told you the remarkable story of a We'll crown our latest  today. We'll be posting new local bloggers all this week. Let us know your ideas for other family-friendly features and news stories for, or browse our "events" calendar for other happenings around town.


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