As a resident of Manhasset for 62 years (and a volunteer firefighter here for 42), I am thoroughly disgusted by the attitude of some of our current civic group "leaders" in the matter of proposing to honor the memory of Police Officer Joseph Coote who in 1961 was slain while trying to stop the robbery of Food Fair Supermarket (then on the site of Today's Man on Northern Boulevard).

Rather than some plaque obscurely placed where nobody will appreciate the ultimate sacrifice made by this fine officer in protecting the lives and property of Manhasset residents, indeed how truly fitting it would be to have several street signs naming a portion of Plandome Road (or, for that matter, any prominent street) in his memory. Honoring Officer Coote in this manner would truly symbolize his vigilant patrol and protection of what we hold dear. Sadly this honor is too long overdue.

It is not often that I agree with the editorial staff of Newsday, but this time they are "right on target". Our several "leaders" as mentioned in a recent editorial have taken "NIMBYism and snobbery to a new low." I heartily concur! - and I do hope that Town Supervisor May Newburger will prevail by renaming a street to honor Officer Coote.

Herman P. Wiegand