FOC Newsletter, Chairman’s Letter, Summer 2008

As you venture through the park, keep a lookout and listen for Northern Bobwhite Quail and Ring-necked Pheasant. The Wilvert family of Islip Terrace has raised over 1,000 quail and 200 pheasants, from chicks, and released them into the park. Some of the birds that were released last year have reached adulthood and can be heard calling to each other. Part of a quail’s diet is ticks. We’re hoping that they can help control the tick population throughout the park. This project has taken much patience and hard work on behalf of the Wilverts. They deserve much credit and gratitude for their efforts.

If you have visited the park lately, you may have noticed that there has been no progress on the mill restoration. New York State has given the Friends authority to solicit bids from local contractors for resuming and completing the necessary work. The deadline for bid submissions was July 15 and several bids have been received. Final contractor selection will be completed within a few weeks. Let’s hope we see some progress shortly. We are still seeking donations to help support this project.

A committee of board members and park employees is busy planning the Friend’s eleventh annual Gala. Our theme this year is trout and trout fishing. There will be representatives from local fishing clubs on hand to demonstrate the art of fly casting, give you a chance to try your hand at it and answer your questions. There will also be equestrian exhibitions, decoy carving, music, carriage rides, auctions, and food. Again, we must call upon the generosity of our members and friends and remind everyone that we need contributions of Gala auction prizes as well as food donations from local restaurants. If you would like to contribute an item, please call the park, 631-581-1072, leaving your name and phone number and someone will contact you to arrange pickup or drop off time of the item.

Take advantage of the warm summer days and enjoy a walk, horseback ride or fishing session in the park.

Sincerely,
Bob Labuski

Current Chairman's Letter

Past Chairman's Letters:
Summer 2011
Spring 2011
Winter 2010-11
Fall 2010
Summer 2010
Spring 2010
Winter 2009-10
Fall 2009
Summer 2009
Spring 2009
Winter 2008-09
Fall 2008
Summer 2008
Spring 2008
Winter 2007-08
Fall 2007
Summer 2007
Spring 2007