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Community Corner

Beyond Mindless Vandalism: Elwood Sign Destroyed

The American flag that had been placed behind the sign was stolen, as well.

Before I went to Florida, I had noted that one of the two community signs, which we have all viewed at the off-center intersection of Warner Road, Burr Avenue and Little Plains Road had disappeared. Perhaps, like me, you noticed and assumed that it was due to a traffic accident given the proximity of that sign to the very tricky intersection.

However, while I was away I received an e-mail from Mary-Jane Mackey, president of Elwood Taxpayers Association, who advised that the loss was due to vandalism, and, in addition someone had subsequently stolen the U.S. Flag and flagpole which had been placed behind the sign.

What could possess an individual, or group, to so callously destroy/steal not only community symbols, but symbols of national unity?

This goes beyond the mindless vandalism which some homes have experienced, notably to mail boxes, and which we generally have associated with teenagers with more time on their hands than brains or integrity.

Some of you may recall that the sign, and the follow-on installation of the flag pole and flag, was the result of fund-raising and personal donations to Elwood Taxpayers Association who, with assistance — if I correctly recall — from Suffolk County Legislator Steve Stern, carried out the design and contracted for the manufacture and installation of the signs.

Therefore, this vandalism also personally affects the good people who generously donated their money, and their time, in an attempt to assist in fostering community identity and community spirit for all who live within the Elwood School District.

I wish I had an answer for this destructive and utterly disrespectful behavior, but I don't.

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