Suffolk Reporter

The John S. Hobart Elementary School recently dedicated a plaque to honor the esteemed artist Al Plastino, known for his significant contributions to the world of comic art. The dedication ceremony took place in the school's lobby, where a portrait of former U.S. Senator John Sloss Hobart, painted by Plastino, is displayed.

Plastino's family members, including daughters Arlene Podlesny and Janice Iapaolo, and granddaughter Melanie Podlesny, attended the event alongside William Floyd School District fine arts chairperson Theresa Bianco and other school officials. The gathering also featured original artwork by Plastino.

Al Plastino is celebrated for his work with DC Comics, particularly as one of the most prolific artists of Superman. He co-created characters such as Supergirl, Brainiac, Parasite, and the Legion of Superheroes. His notable piece "Superman's Mission for President Kennedy" was published posthumously as a tribute to President Kennedy and is part of the permanent collection at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library.

Theresa Bianco remarked on how students connect with superheroes and expressed pride in having an artist like Plastino from their community: “Our students connect to these superheroes... Now when they pass that painting, they will stop and look a little longer.”

The plaque dedication was initiated by Melanie Podlesny through a project presented in her high school English class taught by Brian Sckipp. Sckipp's enthusiasm for Superman led him to bring this idea forward to Mrs. Bianco.

During the ceremony, Melanie Podlesny presented her grandfather’s career achievements to students from both Hobart Elementary and William Floyd High School. The presentation included insights into his work on comic strips like "Ferdinand," "Nancy," "Peanuts," local Long Island scenery, and portraits of elected officials.

As part of honoring Plastino's legacy within the community, prints of one of his Superman illustrations were distributed among staff members by his family as tokens of appreciation.