Over 1.2 million Libyan pupils have returned to school, nearly a year after they evacuated their classrooms during the country’s popular uprising against the regime of Muammar al-Qadhafi, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The international agency says about 27 million textbooks are being printed by Libya’s education ministry and 10 million have already been distributed in anticipation of the return to school.

But a shortage of both books and desks remain, and transport to and from school is also lacking for many children.

FINAL GOP DEBATE. Before New Hampshire Primaries.

SHOOTING ANNIVERSARY. Memorial & Choices.

IRAN NUKES. Atom Bomb Being Developed?

MEXICO VIOLENCE. US Border Security.

BACK TO SCHOOL. Libyan Students.

NYC councilman Jimmy Vacca (D-Bronx) says the 45th Precinct has the lowest crime rate in the Bronx and possiblu in the entire city.

During an exclusive interview with City Island Images, Vacca said “NYPD's 45th Precinct is leading the way in New York City, and I give much of that credit to Captain Russel Green. He’s involved in every quality of life problem we have. He is hands on and extremely involved in the day-to-day work.”

Green is being lauded by community leaders for a notable reduction in complaints in the Four-Five, which he took over in August, 2010.

If you ever had the opportunity to meet City Islander Dominic Cassetta, you may be saddened to learn that the deaf-mute painter was hit by a passenger car on Monday night.

According to Buddy's Hardware owner Karl Hoedl, who has gone to visit him a couple of time at Jacobi Hospital, Mr. Cassetta is suffering from brain swelling, multiple fractures, along with severe hear trauma.

Mr. Cassetta, who is in his 60's has been operated on at Jacobi Hospital and is expected to need medical attention along with rehabilitation for some time.

US JOB CRISIS. Here To Stay For Many In North America.

GOP WEEKEND DEBATES. New Hampshire Primary.

17 SUBWAY LINES REPAIRED. Expect Delays.

TEXAS DROUGHT. Driest Recorded Year.

SYRIAN CARNAGE. Bombs Continue.

Many residents in the Bronx community are saddened to learn about last night’s incident on Creston Avenue in Fordham Heights, where eleven-year old Ryan Aguari fell victim to gun violence and is now fighting for his life. This is the second time in two months a child has fallen victim to gun violence in The Bronx.