Another excuse for the MTA. The MTA, which seems to manufacture a new budget shortfall every time a train runs late, now has reported ridership dipped in 2009 for only the third time on record. Massive numbers of commuters have lost their jobs. Massive numbers of people are skipping shopping and theater trips, opting to eat and pay the mortgage instead. Gee, you could almost see it coming.

Movers, shakers and newsmakers. Hamburger chain adds MasterCard PayPass. , the Purchase-based credit card giant, said that Whataburger, a Texas-based fast food chain, Whataburger, will accept MasterCard PayPass payments at more than 500 locations across the South. Comments Off on Hamburger chain adds MasterCard PayPass. New CEO named at Aureon Laboratories. IMedicor, a Nanuet-based .

The editorial cartoons of Matt Davies.

Croton Falls Road Bridge closure planned for rehablitation of the span. Croton Falls Road over the Croton River in North Salem and Somers will be partly closed Wednesday through Nov. 22, and completely closed Sunday. The closure will allow for rehabilitation work on the Croton Falls Road Bridge. CROTON FALLS ROAD LANE CLOSURE STARTS WEDNESDAY. IN NORTH SALEM AND SOMERS.

In White Plains later this week.

Along for the ride as musicals come to life. Look for it here Monday at noon.

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More from the opinion-makers of The Journal News and LoHud. com, with a special look at Rockland. What issues do you hope they take up in 2012? What are your priorities for your representatives in the state Senate and Assembly? Replacing the Tappan Zee bridge? What are your top issues? Leave your answers in the comments below.

News and notes from the U. How unfortunate for Murray that he thought he ever had a chance.