The issue is traffic, period.
I grew up in New Hyde Park and now have lived in the wonderful Village of Williston Park for the past 11 years and I send two of my three children to St. Aidan’s School.
I have been closely following the issue of the proposed Cross Street School lease to the Solomon Schechter Day School and I have read many letters to the editor and articles regarding the issue, which has evolved into a healthy debate that includes the topics of traffic, use of the fields by the community, school taxes and even the possibility making the school a community center.
I was present at a meeting with the rabbi from the Solomon Schechter Day School and the Village of Williston Park Safety and Parking Committee; it was a great opportunity to hear the rabbi’s explanation of the transportation of students and he was a true gentleman, who wants to be a good neighbor.
There have been many public and private discussions as well relating to these controversial topics.
While I cannot and will not speak for all those who oppose this plan for the school, I will say that whether this proposed lease of the Cross Street School was for a Hebrew school, a Christian school, a private school, or a technical (BOCES) school it would be met with the same opposition that this has been met with.
It is not about religion or race, its about increased traffic and use of the fields, period! I find it quite unfortunate and somewhat offensive that Mr. Goldstien, who doesn’t live in Williston Park, must inject his ugly and accusatory comments of racism into this topic, and paint the members of our community as anti-Semites!
He furthermore in his arrogant, condescending and racist commentary suggests to St. Aidan’s Parish that we re-educate the parish in religious harmony.
Williston Park in made up of descent and hardworking people who want what’s best for their kids and their community.
The people of our community have the right to oppose a plan that they think will negatively impact the community we live in without being unfairly labeled as racists. Perhaps the former adjunct professor of social sciences should enroll in a few night classes himself and re-educate himself about the effects of race-baiting and worry about the issues that impact the community where he lives.
Michael F. Uttaro
Williston Park
