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Hochul signs mental health bill for police protect our communities during times of crisis deserve counseling services that are taiJoined by police leaders and lored to their unique experiencb i l l s p o n s o r s, G ov. K at hy es and conducted with discreHochul signed the Lieutenant tion. By strengthening these Joseph Banish Mental Health programs, we are ensuring safe Act into law on Dec. 18. settings for honest conversaResponding to an increase in tions to improve the mental suicides and post-traumatic health and well-being of our stress disorder first responders.” among police offiS p o n s o r e d by cers, the bill will A s s e m bly wo m a n establish new confiJudy Griffin and dentiality requireState Sen. James m e n t s fo r l aw Skoufis, the bill enforcement during passed both houses peer-to-peer counof the Legislature seling sessions. last June. “I was Named in memory honored to carry of State Police Lt. this legislation to Joseph Banish, who establish a formal died by suicide in peer-to-peer mental 2008, the legislation JudY GRIFFIN health program for i s i n t e n d e d t o New York State our police,” Griffin reduce the stigma Assemblywoman said in a news associated with release. “This bill mental health among first is about supporting the men responders while ensuring that and women who protect us counseling communications every day by ensuring that they are protected. have the mental health resourc“Protecting New York’s first es they need to effectively serve responders and ensuring they communities across the state.” are well-equipped with support Suicide rates for police offito successfully fulfill their cers are more than 50 percent duties is an essential part of higher than the public at large, my public safety mission,” and the new law will provide Hochul said in a statement. Continued on page 7 “Law enforcement officers who
By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN
agriffin@liherald.com
T
Courtesy Baldwin School District
david Kreutz, as Rev. Shaw Moore, and Mia Smith, as Vi Moore, in the Baldwin High School production of “Footloose.”
Baldwin High School performers ‘cut loose’ during fall production By ALLYSON FERRARI aferrari@liherald.com
Baldwin High School’s performing arts program recently delivered one of the most highly praised musical performances in the school’s history with its production of “Footloose.” Adapted from the 1984 film, the stage version featured dance, emotion and a distinct ’80s style. “This year’s production perfectly exemplified how our music and theater programs serve as educational tools for students,” the high school’s fine and performing arts director, André H. Poprilo, said in a release from the district. “As an education administrator, witnessing students excel within the framework provided by our tal-
ented teachers brings immense joy.” Two members of the cast, junior Aaron Martin III, who played Willard Hewitt, and senior Mia Smith, who played Vi Moore, have been nominated for the highly prestigious Roger Rees Awards, for their outstanding performance in this production. Baldwin High School Orchestra director Stephanie Muir conducted the pit orchestra, which comprised student musicians and community professionals. The student-run stage crew, directed by senior, Caitlyn Dennis, managed sets, lighting and costumes. Stage Director Tricia Wilder, a Kindergarten teacher at Plaza Elementary School reflected on the students’ camaraderie and her delight in directing them. “The highlight Continued on page 3
his bill is about supporting the men and women who protect us every day.