TOBAY Notebook: Take Precaution Against Rabies

Town officials have put together a brochure to warn residents about the dangers of rabies.

Although deaths from the viral disease have plummeted in the U.S. over the last century, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the decline can be attributed to efforts to prevent the disease.

Rabies has been detected in raccoons in the Town of Oyster Bay, according to Councilman Joseph Pinto. 

“While none tested so far this year has been positive for rabies, it doesn’t mean our communities are rabies-free," he said.

Summertime is particularly important because humans and pets are more likely to come into contact with wildlife who can pass rabies.

“People should avoid contact with wild or stray animals,” Pinto said. “Residents should report any animal, especially raccoons or opossums they see that are ill, dead or acting unusually, to the Nassau County Department of Health Rabies Control Program at 227-9663."

Dogs, cats and domesticated ferrets must be vaccinated under New York State Law and pet owners are urged to keep their vaccinations up to date.

The Town's brochure also gives more tips on how to take precautions against rabies, and what to do if an animal bites you. You can get it at any Town Hall, download it from their website, or contact the Town's Public information office.

Music Under the Stars: Week Four

If something tells you you're into something good, it wouldn't surprise us to learn that you've attended the Town's Music Under the Stars series.

The free concert series has set its lineup for its fourth week beginning with Peter Noone and Herman's Hermits at at John J. Burns Town Park, Merrick Road in Massapequa, on Monday, July 25 at 8 p.m.

The next night, Tuesday July 26, country music star Mel Tillis performs at Burns Park at 8 p.m.

Then it'll be time for show tunes as  "Broadway Tonite!" will be held at Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury, on Wednesday, July 27 at 8 p.m.

Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra will perform at Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park, Washington Avenue in Plainview, on Thursday, July 29 at 8p.m.

Finally, '80s band Air Supply, featuring Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock will take the stage at Burns Park on Friday July 30 at 8 p.m.

Planning Advisory Board

The next Town Planning Advisory Board Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 21, at 7 p.m. in the hearing room at Town Hall East 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay.