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Oyster Bay holds its annual Polar Plunge By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent
Mike Polansky/Herald photos
Participants brave the cold water to support Special Olympics.
More than 750 participants took part in the 12th annual “Freezin’ for a Reason” Polar Plunge at TOBAY Beach March 29, braving cold waters despite air temperatures that reached into the 70s. An especially large group of Nassau County police officers led the way into the water, which was a chilly 48 degrees, making the plunge a challenge for everyone involved. Among the participants was the Massapequa High School swim team, led by Head Coach Kelly Malone and Assistant Coach Bill Eickelberg. The annual event supports Special Olympics New York, and Rebecca Hoffman, Director of Development for the charity, said the event raised $130,000. That will help provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
Court tosses LI schools’ mascot case—for now By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent
On March 27, U.S. District Court Judge Margo K. Brodie dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Massapequa School District and three other Long Island school districts challenging the State Board of Regents’ ban on Native American imagery, such as the Massapequa “Chiefs” logo and mascot. While 13 local districts were affected by the state ban, only Massapequa, Wyandanch, Connetquot, and Wantagh challenged the ban in court. The judge ruled that the plaintiffs did not present enough evidence to support
their claim that the actions of school officials were a matter of public concern and thus protected by the First Amendment. She gave the plaintiffs 30 days to amend their complaint before the dismissal becomes final. The Chiefs name and logo have been part of the Massapequa schools’ culture for many years. In response to the court’s decision, the Massapequa Board of Education issued a statement to the community: “We are disappointed to share that a federal judge has dismissed our lawsuit challenging New York State’s regulation banning Native American mas-
cots. While this decision is not the outcome we had hoped for, it does not change our unwavering commitment to protecting and preserving the identity and traditions of our community. “Throughout this process, our priority has been to stand up for local control and the ability of communities to honor their heritage in a respectful and meaningful way. We firmly believe that decisions about our schools should reflect the voices of the people who live here, not be dictated by the state. “Despite this setback, we remain steadfast in our advocacy and will continue to explore all available options. We will be consulting with legal counsel in
the coming days to determine our next steps. “Thank you for your continued support as we work to protect the values and traditions that make Massapequa special.” The “Chiefs logo is also used by the Village of Massapequa Park, the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce, and the Massapequa Fire Depart-
ment. Notably, the Big Chief Lewis building is a prominent landmark for visitors entering Massapequa from the east on Sunrise Highway. Local officials strongly supported the district’s position following the court’s ruling. Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino expressed disappointment, stating, “Our community is proud of its Native American history CONTINUED ON PAGE 9