I am writing in response to the letter to the editor, in the December 29, 2006 edition of The Massapequan Observer, entitled, "Blames Mall for a Big Flop." I attended the same event, (Massapequa Schools Talent Showcase) as a representative of our Oyster Bay Town government and had an entirely different reaction.

I was focused on the fact that one of our Town's newest corporations, Westfield Group, which recently acquired the property that is the Mall, was donating $7,000 in college scholarship money to our young people. They were doing this in a way that not only was showcasing our youth and their obvious talents but they are aggressively working to integrate their business with our community. I think the emphasis should be on thanking them and congratulating their efforts.

I grant the letter writer his criticism about the sound system, but that little snafu only affected the speeches, which were mercilessly short. The orchestra and bands that played sounded fine and isn't it really about the children anyway. I write to congratulate Westfield for its generosity to our children, and to its commitment to Massapequa.

As a lifelong resident of Massapequa, I wish them a very prosperous New Year. I hope they continue to find innovative ways to contribute to our community and in this regard I offer my assistance to Westfield in any way possible. Bravo and keep up the fine work.

Steve Labriola

Oyster Bay Town Clerk