Students at Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School showed their support in the war against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with a gathering to welcome the ALS Ride for Life group as they made a stop in Freeport on their way from the Hamptons to Manhattan. "This ride celebrates perseverance, determination, compassion, responsibility, awareness and hope," said Principal Amanda Muldowney. "These are all traits that we constantly try to instill in each of you." Assistant Superintendent for Personnel Dr. Mary Bediako was in attendance to show her support.
Students displayed banners of encouragement that they made showing support for those with the disease who are making the strenuous ride. The banners proclaimed the students' commitment to help support research into finding a cure. The wheelchair-bound visitors - ALS Ride for Life founder Chris Pendergast and Frank Wojcik and their volunteer entourage - were treated to a performance of Beth Jacoby and Larry King's song "Power of One" by second- and fourth-graders under the direction of music teacher Shannon Abramovitz. Abramovitz helped organize the event with Meghan McCormack-Carney.
Students and staff members were encouraged to wear navy, white or New York Yankees baseball gear for the event as a reminder that Major League Baseball Hall of Fame first baseman Lou Gehrig, who played for the Yankees, was diagnosed with the illness that is now closely associated with his name.