Terrigno graduated second in her class from Neptune High School, then attended Hofstra University on a scholarship.

[5] Her best-known action as mayor was, after the city council passed an anti-discrimination ordinance, taking down a controversial anti-gay sign, "Fagots [sic] Stay Out," at local landmark restaurant Barney's Beanery.

[2][8] On the witness stand, Terrigno acknowledged making "errors in judgment" but denied any criminal wrongdoing.

[3] Federal District Judge Laughlin Waters sentenced Terrigno to sixty days, which she served in a halfway house.

[7] Terrigno's planned appearance at the 1986 West Hollywood gay pride parade, representing a local restaurant, sparked controversy.