Video

Petaluma Woman Has Personal Connection to Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell

Linda Postenrieder, who owns Pelican Art Gallery, is a graduate of  the prestigious Annapolis Naval Academy in 1982 and spent five years on active duty.

But in 1987 Postenrieder left the Navy, in part because she could no longer lie about being a lesbian. It was a hard choice, forcing Postenrieder to leave behind something she loved.

Postenrieder says the hardest thing about Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell was that it didn’t allow gay servicemen and women to disclose an integral part of themselves in an environment that was otherwise like a family. And while she celebrates the repeal of the law, she knows that the fight for equality for gay members of the Armed Forces is not over.

Shollenberger Park Faces Threat Following Asphalt Plant Approval

With 165 acres of ecologically sensitive terrain, including wetlands, Shollenberger Park has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. There are guided tours, birding classes and educational programs that educate visitors about the amazingly rich plant and wildlife that’s found here.

Just 30 years ago, portions of the park were littered with trash and used only for storing dredge spoils. But then volunteers set to work, converting the abandoned property into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. But the approval last month of an asphalt plant across the river from the park has many supporters worried about its future.  Check out the video.

Desperately Seeking…Work

In this tough economy, teens and older workers are often competing for the same jobs…and blaming each other when they don’t get them. That’s making some young adults reevaluate their dreams and make hard choices, including joining the military.

See the accompanying story in the New York Daily News.

Tough Times, Tender Steaks

Lower East Side merchants recently teamed up to create a recession dinner for New Yorkers who have lost their jobs or homes. The result was a night of good food, laughs, and above all, a reminder that in the toughest of times, neighbors have to stick together. Click to play video.

with Sophia Tewa

Sweet Tradition

The Polish community in New York City has changed over the years. Many younger generation Polish-Americans have moved out of traditional neighborhoods, like Greenpoint, and are increasingly abandoning the Catholic religion. But when Lent rolls around, a sweet old world tradition keeps them coming back to their roots.

With Valerie Lapinski and Kaili Boyd

New Plan to Keep Workers Safe

Last year, nearly 20 construction workers died on the job in New York City and another 200 were injured. Now, after a $4 million study, the city recently unveiled a new proposal aimed at improving construction-site safety.

With Sophia Tewa.