Last week we reported on the institution of a lawsuit brought by the Manhasset/Great Neck EOC Board of Directors against the EOC of Nassau County, alleging improper transfer of title to 65 High Street from the local group to the county. We also reported the subsequent threat on the part of the Nassau EOC to padlock the building and remove equipment. The Manhasset/Great Neck Board of Directors obtained an injunction stopping that action for 10 days. This week we report on a meeting at 65 High Street at which the director of Head Start for Nassau County suggested that it might be time for the program to look for new quarters. Whether this was in reaction to the lawsuit has not been established, but it certainly would appear to be the case. A rally to support the Manhasset-Great Neck Board of Directors' actions was scheduled to be held after this paper went to press, but we can assume, judging from the climate at last week's Head Start meeting, that it will have occurred and that the community will support its leaders.

Without making a judgment on the facts of the case, it appears that the time has come for the Manhasset-Great Neck EOC to separate itself from the Nassau County EOC. This can not be done without risk and it is important that the Manhasset-Great Neck Board make sure that it can continue its participation in the federal programs that have funded activities at 65 High Street. It is unfortunate that the county and the local EOCs seem to have irreparable differences, but it is not a new thing. That relationship has been a troubled one for many years and the list of directors of the program is a long one.

Just as in a family, sometimes there is no choice but a separation. When that occurs it is in everyone's best interest to make the separation amicable. As far as Manhasset-Great Neck is concerned, it is fortunate to have young, vigorous local leadership at the present time, which makes the timing right. With luck, Nassau County EOC may see that it is time for this offspring to leave the nest and bid it bon voyage.