Town Officials Say Headway Made In Fight Against Graffiti

The town’s effort to cleanup graffiti in hamlets throughout Islip has been an initial success, according to councilman Gene Parrington. Utilizing its state-of-the-art graffiti removal truck, the town has power-washed and painted over 117,000 square feet of graffiti.

Officials said future efforts to combat graffiti would continue to rely on residents reporting graffiti in their neighborhoods.

Last year, the town was alerted to more than 400 graffiti locations from tips from community members. Of these, 100 sites were cleaned-up by the property owner, which the town encourages. Another 200 locations were cleaned by the graffiti truck, in instances that ranged from entire homes being vandalized, to small recurring gang-related signs. 

In addition, the town also worked with Suffolk County Police and the local community during two Paint Back the Streets events, which combined hundreds of residents and police volunteers with town employees and vehicles to address those areas most impacted by graffiti.

Vendors Needed For Sayville Fair

Islip Town and the Sayville Chamber of Commerce are joining forces to sponsor the 21st Annual Earth Day celebration in downtown Sayville. The event will take place on Saturday, April 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The rain date of Sunday, May 1. 

Vendors and exhibitors with earth-friendly goods and services who have a current N.Y. State Tax Identification number are needed, according to town officials.

Event organizers expect a large turnout at this year’s celebration, which features performers, continuous live music, clowns, animal exhibits, educational workshops, displays/demonstrations and so much more.

Those interested in obtaining a spot at the Earth Day celebration may contact Danielle Wynn, Earth Day Coordinator, at 224-5650 to obtain an application.  A $25 non-refundable fee is required and vendors will have to supply their own tables. 

Responsible Dog Owner Classes Offered

The Dog Federation of New York and The Town of Islip Animal Shelter are again joining forces to offer residents the Responsible Dog Owner Class. 

The upcoming schedule for the Dog Owner Education Class is Wednesday, May 11; Wednesday, June 15; and Wednesday, July 13, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. each day.

The three-hour classes are designed to help educate dog owners about basic puppy and dog behavior, training tools and techniques, children and dog safety, dog park etiquette, health and nutrition and New York State dog laws. 

Participants will receive free goodie bags loaded that will include a variety of items for dog owners.  This class is for people only as pets are to be left at home. Parents are encouraged to bring children who are age eight and older. 

For more information, call the Islip Town Animal Shelter at (631) 224-5660 or e-mail Nancy@LongIslandPetProfessionals.com for a reservation or for more information.