Good News of the Week: Student Raises Cash for iPads for Autistic

As a local news organization, Patch covers stories of all kinds, from heartbreaking tragedies to nitty-gritty breakdowns of government and school district issues. But some stories are simply inspiring, often showing that at the heart of our communities is a desire to do good. Here are some of the touching headlines from the past seven days.

Seeing the difference an iPad made in the life of her autistic brother, 11-year-old Dix Hills student Nova Shek used her birthday money to make chocolate lollipops to sell to raise enough money to buy iPads for the other students at her brother's preschool.

"My husband and I explained to her that it wasn't an easy thing to obtain," said her mother Tina Shek. "They are a very expensive product and she said, 'That shouldn't be a reason that other kids shouldn't have it.'"

With the $1 lollipop she earned, as well as a few donations from people willing to pay a bit more for the treat, Shek was able to buy two iPads for the school.

Firefighters Honored for Valor

Three Hampton Bays firefighters were honored recently by the Suffolk County Fire Academy for assisting firefighters who fell into a basement while fighting a fire at 27 Quail Run on Valentine's Day in 2011.

Richard Stockinger, executive director of the fire academy, James Kappers, Edward Thompson, and Brian Tuzil each received a bronze medal of valor.

"They each committed an act of bravery that went beyond the normal duties of a firefighter," said Stockinger.

One Kings Park family found themselves in a desperate situation when their beloved dog escaped and disappeared into the neighborhood. Luckily for them, a Good Samaritan spotted the animals and helped them to rescue him. The owners later chose to thank him by telling the story on Patch.

"We feel so lucky and blessed to have him back. Ralphie is my mom's dog and she is away on vacation. She still has no idea of the frantic and extensive search that went on for her "baby". Thankfully, when she comes home on Friday night, we can tell her this "funny" story rather than the terrible tragedy this could have been.

"My family and I feel so appreciative of this helpful and caring community. Everyone willingly offered to help us out. There were so many eyes looking for him! If not for the help of those people, he might still be missing."

Other Good News:

• Student from Comsewogue Makes National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinals
• Port Jefferson Student Makes National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinals
• PHOTOS: Stony Brook Marches in Columbus Day Parade
• 500 Cookies Helped Keep U.S. Troops Warm