BITTER BLAST

Arctic air takes hold of Long Island after first snowstorm.

Long Island Rail Road riders are bracing for another round of fare hikes.
On Thursday, the MTA Board was discussing a possible 4 percent fare and toll increase.
Transit authority officials say they need the money to make up for revenue shortfalls and increased operating costs.
If approved, a monthly LIRR ticket would go up by about $15 a month.
The MTA Board is expected to vote on the proposed increase in January.