Jericho Turnpike statue finds new home at Mineola High School
The newest addition to Mineola High School doesn’t have a backpack or go to class. Instead, this quiet, strong figure greets students, parents and faculty outside of Mineola High School with raised hooves and a steely gaze. It’s impossible to miss the giant Mustang statue that now adorns the building’s exterior by the flagpole, a welcome addition to the district that was made possible through the efforts of several in the community.
The Mustang was donated by Avelino DeSousa, who had the statue in front of the building he owned at 212 Jericho Tpke. for nine years. The building’s new tenants, Winthrop Cardiology Associates didn’t want the statue there so DeSousa decided to give it back to the community. They asked the village board for suggestions on where to put it and Deputy Mayor Paul Pereira suggested the high school.
“When we built the building, we wanted to have a centerpiece, so we put the Mustang there because it represented the Mustangs from Mineola High School,” said Tony DeSousa, Avelino’s son. “Putting it at the high school was a great idea.” The school district held a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 13 to commemorate the statue’s move to the high school, as well as thank the people who helped make the transition possible. Winthrop University Hospital funded the relocation expenses of the statue and Mineola High School alumni Lou Caruso, from J&L Concrete provided the new base. Big Apple Supply also donated a blue stone to go around the base.
“What a great example of partnership when people from different parts of the community pool their talents and resources,” said board of education president Christine Napolitano.
“We know many wonderful memories will be made here, from parents taking pictures as their children first enter the high school to the traditions started by students decorating the Mustang for holidays and events. We hope this Mustang will be here for generations for our students and parents to enjoy.”
Pereira, who is a teacher and coach in the district, as well as an alum, helped coordinate the relocation efforts and told the students at the ceremony that he hopes the statue will inspire them to follow Avelino DeSousa’s example.
“This Mustang represents the dedication to lifelong learning, giving back to the community, being part of a global society,” Pereira said. “The Mustang represents our mascot and namesake, but it’s so much more than that. It’s emblematic of Avelino’s success and working hard and achieving the American dream, and I hope when you walk by this you will be inspired to work hard and achieve success.”
