The Levittown Property Owners Association met on Dec. 14, 2004 with President Jim Morrow presiding. At the year-ending meeting, the topic most extensively discussed was, once again, objections to the name change of the former Island Trees Memorial School to its new name, the Richard N. Segerdahl Middle School.

"Whatever the people in the Island Trees community want, the LPOA will support," stated President Morrow. Comments from the audience indicated often emotional objections to the name change. These included, "After 40-50 years of a name honoring casualties of WWII through the use of 'Memorial,' most people don't want the name changed. Besides, 10 - maybe less than five - years from now, most kids won't know Segerdahl or his record, or why the school is named for him. But residents of a community built for veterans will always remember that 'memorial' in a school's name is there to honor the veterans for whom the community was built, forever."

Other comments mentioned that "many schools in Nassau County include 'Memorial' in their name." President Morrow wondered if any law exists which forbids a name change if 'Memorial' in a school's name dedicated to honor veterans is contemplated. LPOA Executive Board member George Gibson consulted with the librarian of historical archives at the Levittown Public Library who checked through newspaper reports from files on the school's dedication in 1952-1953. President Morrow read from these reports when "the key to the buildings was presented." Research for a more complete record is ongoing. From the numerous comments expressing dissatisfaction with the school board's (not the community's) action, it would seem the issue remains unsettled.

Member Gary Fisch mentioned that PTA organizations in Levittown have been notified about the appearance of gang-inspired graffiti in Levittown. Other members indicated addresses where excessive piles of junk and debris have accumulated and remained for long periods. This is an affront to neighbors as well as a devaluation of their property. The LPOA takes the addresses supplied and notifies the Town of Hempstead Building Department (or Councilman Gary Hudes) as the town takes specific action to correct such cases.

Other random comments of members included: Nassau County has an excess of flu vaccine available; the Levittown Community Council invited the LPOA to place a table at its annual community festival in February (for recruitment or interest); the suggestion that we invite the new police inspector of the 8th Precinct, Inspector Monty Gerbush, to the Jan. 11 meeting as it has been some time since an inspector visited the LPOA. These visits have always been mutually beneficial. Finally, it was suggested we contact Town Supervisor Kate Murray on the issues the LPOA executive board members discussed at a meeting with her in October. Of particular interest is the situation at the North Village Green, and the court decision on the development of the Old Motor Parkway.

All were wished a wonderful and happy holiday season. The next LPOA meeting will be on Jan. 11 at 7:30 p.m. in the Levittown Public Library Community Room.

Submitted by: Daphne Rus, Secretary, LPOA