Nassau County Executive Thomas S. Gulotta recently met with independent minor league baseball officials to discuss plans for a team in Nassau County. The meeting included former New York Mets Shortstop Bud Harrelson and Frank Boulten, chairman of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.

"I want a baseball team in Nassau County," said County Executive Thomas S. Gulotta. "Initial discussions were encouraging and constructive."

Gulotta has indicated his goal to make Nassau County a major sports Mecca in the Northeast. Discussions with minor league baseball officials follow a recent announcement that the New York Islander's ownership agreement had been successfully achieved and that Nassau County will remain the home of the Islanders.

"Nassau County resident deserve quality affordable family sports entertainment," Gulotta said. "A professional minor league baseball team in Nassau County would be a major win for taxpayers and our sports fans while promoting Nassau County's future economic strength."

"I believe that a professional baseball team in Nassau County will create a healthy and entertaining rivalry for Long Island," stated Bud Harrelson, president of the Atlantic League and manager of the Long Island Ducks.

"The Atlantic League of Professional Baseball recognizes that Nassau County deserves a team," stated Frank Boulton. "We are committed to bringing a team to Nassau by the year 2000."