Recently, I was sent a Syosset High School alumni newsletter. After reading many of the letters from the alumni of Syosset High School, I can see a lot of frustration with the name change of the "Braves." My husband and I are proud alumni and the tradition of the "Braves" name has a lot of memories for us.

There had been talk/rumors about the name being changed since last year, and I had voiced my opinion on the subject many times against the name change, but didn't know the protocol, or how to make a difference.

I feel the school board does an absolute, great job and I voted for all of them, it's just I don't think they knew this would create such a spiraling effect, and terrific outcry from current and past alumni.

I believe the NY State Commissioner of Education is still going to change it anyway, to be "politically correct." Although, the name "Red Hawks" still has connotations toward the American Indians, too. Check out: http://www.redhawk-trading.com/contact.htm (it's a site advertising tepees) and http://www.redhawkaig.com/ (American Indian Goods).

Since the name "Braves," is such a big part of a tradition of the Syosset schools and evokes such a legacy to our schools and community, maybe ballots should have been sent to all the taxpayers in the community. We always get other school-related newsletters. Perhaps, maybe an announcement of this sensitive topic should have been made public far enough in advance for interested parties to arrange to attend, and voice their opinions. I assume there may be a big cost factor in changing all the uniforms, too.

But I feel that the American Indians should be honored that we used "Braves" as a strong and courageous name for as many years as we did. It was good enough for many years and should continue to be. I know I am not offended, and I am of Cherokee descent.

Linda Manning-Koziatek