TOS Has A New Program Allowing You To Recycle Plastic Bags

Town of Smithtown Teams with Trex® to Turn Household Plastics into Sustainable Decking

Smithtown, N.Y. –  Residents can now recycle plastic bags, packaging and film at the Municipal Services Facility, located at 85 Old Northport Road in Kings Park. The Town of Smithtown has joined forces with Trex Company, the world’s largest manufacturer of high-performance, wood-alternative decking and railing, so that residents can upcycle discarded household plastics. The materials are used to create beautiful, durable and sustainable outdoor living products. A public recycling hub has been added to the Municipal Services Facility in Kings Park.

The new drop-off container is a part of the NexTrex® recycling program. The nationwide material sourcing initiative for the composite decking leader manufactures decking from primarily reclaimed content. This includes a mix of industrial wood scrap/sawdust and recycled polyethylene (PE) plastic film. Each year, the company upcycles in excess of 1 billion pounds of these would-be waste materials and is one of the largest recyclers of plastic film in North America. Over the past three decades, Trex has diverted more than 5 billion pounds of discarded PE plastic from ending up in landfills.

Did You Know? Plastic film cannot be recycled at your curbside bins. The NexTrex program offers a simple solution for residents and local businesses to responsibly dispose of plastic bags, shipping wrap and other plastic film waste. 

The NexTrex Grassroots Movement provides partnership opportunities for municipalities, non-profit organizations, and small businesses to establish their own collection sites. Trex works with partners across the country to recycle post-consumer, commercial and industrial plastic film via public collection and warehouse collection programs. Materials are sent to local collection sites where they are baled and shipped to the company’s manufacturing facilities in Virginia and Nevada to be upcycled into durable, beautiful, and eco-friendly composite decking and outdoor living products.

“With the NexTrex program, you know exactly where your recycled plastics are going and how they will be used. The best part is, participating is easy. Simply separate plastic film items from other recyclables and drop them off at our MSF collection site. We’ll work with Trex to do the rest.” - Mike Englemann, Town of Smithtown Solid Waste Coordinator 

Community members are encouraged to drop off discarded plastic film at the new MSF collection hub. Common items that can be recycled by Trex include:

• Grocery and retail bags

• Bread bags

• Case overwraps

• Dry cleaning bags

• Newspaper sleeves

• Ice bags

• Ziploc and other reclose-able bags

• Produce bags

• Bubble wrap

• Salt bags

• Cereal and cracker box liners

• Wood pellet bags

Tips for recycling plastic film: 

• If it stretches, it qualifies. 

• Look for the #2 or #4 recycling symbols to indicate polyethylene films.

• Make sure materials are clean, dry and free from contamination. 

“Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for people to recycle their household plastics by expanding our network of partners and increasing accessibility,” said Stephanie Hicks, materials and recycling programs manager for Trex Company. “The new recycling hub at Smithtown MSF is not only conveniently located, but affords access so that eco-minded residents from Smithtown can recycle at a day and time that works for them.”

To learn more about the NexTrex program, go to NexTrex.com. For more information about Trex, visit Trex.com.

About Trex Company, Inc.

For more than 30 years, Trex Company [NYSE: TREX] has invented, reinvented and defined the composite decking category. Today, the company is the world’s #1 brand of sustainably made, wood-alternative decking and deck railing, and a leader in high performance, low-maintenance outdoor living products. The undisputed global leader, Trex boasts the industry’s strongest distribution network with products sold through more than 6,700 retail outlets across six continents. Through strategic licensing agreements, the company offers a comprehensive outdoor living portfolio that includes deck drainage, flashing tapes, LED lighting, outdoor kitchen components, pergolas, spiral stairs, fencing, lattice, cornhole and outdoor furniture – all marketed under the Trex® brand. Based in Winchester, Va., Trex is proud to have been named America’s Most Trusted® Outdoor Decking 4 Years in a Row (2021-2024), as well as one ofAmerica’s Most Responsible Companies 2024 by Newsweek, and one of the 100 Best ESG Companies for 2023 by Investor’s Business Daily. For more information, visit Trex.com. You may also follow Trex on Facebook (trexcompany), Instagram (trexcompany), X (Trex_Company), LinkedIn (trex-company), TikTok (trexcompany), Pinterest (trexcompany) and Houzz (trex-company-inc), or view product and demonstration videos on the brand’s YouTube channel (TheTrexCo).

TOS Announces Two Neurodiverse Recreation Programs

The Town of Smithtown to Kick-off Autism Awareness Month with the announcement of two Recreation Programs for people living with Neurodiversities

Smithtown, NY: The Town of Smithtown will begin Autism Awareness Month with the announcement of innovative summer recreation programs for neurodiverse community members. The Town of Smithtown commemorates Autism Awareness Month every April, with visual displays of support located at the historical Bull statue, department (Highway, Parks, Buildings & Grounds) buildings and at Town Hall. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Smithtown Recreation Department, the Town of Smithtown is pleased to announce Camp SMILE (Smithtown Motivating Individuals thru Leisure and Entertainment) alongwith the Adult Socialization Program For Individuals Living with Disabilities. 

“I want to properly acknowledge a truly incredible team that is responsible for this wonderful addition to our Recreational programming. Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo, Recreation Director; Tom McCaffrey, his hardworking and thoughtful team members; Brandon Modrov and Tara Foglia along with the invaluable contributions of the Disability Advisory Board have made this dream a reality. No child should miss out on the enriching Summer camp experience. These two programs champion accessibility, and underscore Smithtown’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment where every resident can thrive and participate fully in community life.” - Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim

The Adaptive Sports and Socialization Summer Program For Children and Adults with Disabilities was previously introduced to the community last Summer with hopes of developing the program into a permanent recreation feature. After a widely successful season, the Smithtown Recreation Department has perfected the concept with two separate programs. 

Camp SMILE will offer the Summer recreation experience for children with developmental disabilities. Additionally, the Adult Socialization Program is tailored specifically for older individuals living with neurodiversities. 

“As we kick off Autism Awareness Month, we are so proud to introduce these incredible recreation programs that celebrate the diverse talents and abilities of all individuals… By fostering inclusivity and providing meaningful opportunities for participation, we aim to create a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.” - Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo, liaison to the Disability Advisory Board 

Camp SMILE will be offered throughout the Summer season in three two-week sessions from 9AM to Noon, Monday through Friday at a local Elementary School. Campers will have the opportunity to participate in arts in crafts, field and playground time, gymnasium games and other various entertainment scheduled throughout each week. The schedule, locations and additional details will be available in the upcoming 2024 Summer Recreation Guide, which will be mailed to residents and also be available online coming this Spring. 

“With the help from our community members as well as the disability Advisory Board it is our hope that we can expand the scope of neurodiverse community programming. Together we can do anything.” Tom McCaffrey, Director of Recreation

The Adult Socialization Program is geared towards residents who often experience higher barriers to participation in sports and socialization opportunities to enjoy the Summer season, meet new friends and build cherished memories. The program features events in and around the community, three to four nights per week, such as bowling, dinners, socials, trips, arts and crafts and special events. The events offered will change seasonally with the addition of nights at the pool in the summer at Smithtown Landing Country Club. Program director, Sue Cappelmann and her staff have created a calendar of events and will be on hand to oversee each activity. Staff members are professionals in the field with years of experience working with children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Resident’s wishing to learn more about these programs can tune in to SmithtownGTV on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWeDyTv-95Q

TOS Is Providing Useful Info In The Event Of Flooding Emergency

THE TOWN OF SMITHTOWN TAKES PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES TO MITIGATE RISK AS FLOOD WATCH IS ISSUED FOR SATURDAY IN EFFECT FOR THE WEEKEND

SMITHTOWN, NY: The Suffolk County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) issued a warning this morning as the National Weather Service has declared a flood watch in effect from March 23, 08:00 AM until March 24, 02:00 AM. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall (2.5 to over 3.5 inches) is possible beginning Saturday morning and expected to last late into Saturday night. As a result, excessive runoff may cause flooding conditions around rivers, creeks, streams, low-lying and flood-prone areas. Flooding may also occur in poor drainage and urban areas.

The Smithtown Department of Public Safety is urging residents to use caution while traveling. Do not drive cars through flooded areas and limit travel if possible. Public Safety will be monitoring the weather and updates from our OEM partners and as always, will have staff on duty 24/7 to serve the residents. Residents can stay informed with real-time updates by downloading the Town of Smithtown Mobile App which is free on Google Play and the App Store. 

The Smithtown Highway Department has already begun taking precautions for the forecasted heavy rains and wind. The fleet is currently out cleaning storms drains and gutter lines, zeroing in on low lying areas of which the weather advisory identifies as a risk for flooding conditions. The Highway Department will be on duty for the duration of the storm.

All residents are advised to monitor future weather forecasts, for possible flood warnings. Take precautions early for family, elderly relatives & neighbors, and pets for the duration of the weather event. Useful phone numbers and contact information for various utilities, government agencies and emergency services have been listed below the advisory.  

WARNINGS ISSUED BY THE NWS FOR OUR AREA:

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH LATE SATURDAY NIGHT

Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. 

IMPACTS: Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Prolonged rainfall will occur Saturday into Saturday night, and may be heavy at times. A total of 2.5 to 3.5 inches of rain is forecast with locally higher amounts possible. There will be potential for flooding, which could linger into late Saturday night for some area rivers and streams.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS: Monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS & EMERGENCY GUIDANCE: 

Public Safety: 631-360-7553: Public Safety operates Seven Days a Week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Power Outages - PSEG Information: View PSEG Long Island’s outage mapClick Here

To report and receive status updates on an outage Text OUT to PSEGLI (773454) or to report an outage online visit www.psegliny.com

To register have your account number available and text REG to PSEGLI (773454)

Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Do not approach or drive over a downed line and do not touch anything contacting the wire. To report a downed wire call PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour Electric Service number: 1-800-490-0075

Report Gas Outages or Emergencies: If you smell gas anywhere, including in your home, go outside and call National Grid 24 hour hotline at 1-800-490-0045 or dial911 immediately.

Elderly Neighbors & Special Needs individuals: Please check on your neighbors with disabilities, special needs and senior citizens. Make sure they have an emergency phone, plenty of water, food and supplies. Ask if they have someone to call in the event of an emergency.

Animals & Family Pets: Keep all pets indoors and sheltered from torrential rains and heavy winds. Consider walking dogs ahead of the bad weather. Have important items handy (leashes and/or or carriers, food, medication and water) in the event of a flooding evacuation emergency. Identify favorite hiding places so that pets can be easily found during emergencies. 

USEFUL NUMBERS:

Stranded Vehicles: If there is an emergency, please dial 9-11 immediately. All non life-threatening calls can be directed to the Department of Public Safety by calling 631-360-7553 

Local Fire & Police Phone Numbers: In an emergency dial 9-1-1

• Suffolk County Police Department: For non-emergencies, contact 631-852-COPS (2677). Dial 9-1-1 ONLY for life-threatening emergencies.

• Smithtown Fire Rescue Communications: 631-265-1500 for fire and EMS emergencies in the Smithtown, Kings Park, and Hauppauge Fire Districts.

• Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services: Dial 911 for fire and EMS emergencies in the St. James, Nesconset, and Nissequogue Fire Districts.

• Commack Fire Department: 631-499-5777 for fire emergencies in the Commack Fire District.

Report Power Outages to PSEG: Text OUT to PSEGLI (773454), report it online atMyAccount.psegliny.com, through the PSEG app, or call 1-800-490-0075

Report Gas Outages or Emergencies: If you smell gas anywhere, including in your home, go outside and call National Grid 24 hour hotline at 1-800-490-0045 or dial911 immediately.

LIRR Commuter Travel Information: For information regarding delays or travel questions, contact the LIRR 24 hour travel information center at 718-217-5477

Suffolk 311: Suffolk County 311 is a central call center available to residents who do not know which number to call for any non-emergency. Residents can reach the 311 line Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or leave messages after hours. 

Elderly Neighbors & Special Needs individuals: For assistance with elderly or special needs individuals, contact the Office for People with Disabilities at (631) 360-7642

Animals & Family Pets: To report animals in distress, strays or other loose/lost domestic or wild animals please call (631) 360-7575 

TOS's New Program Encourages Public To Drop Off Old Bicycles For Rehab

Smithtown NY: The Town of Smithtown Municipal Services Facility has grown programming and services for the 2024 calendar year, geared towards saving residents money while repurposing materials. The newest program has people hitting pedal to the metal, quite literally with the Smithtown Bicycle Co-op. Residents can now upcycle their bicycles for a good cause, when they drop off bikes to Municipal Services Facility (MSF.) Last month MSF employees delivered seventeen bikes to Smithtown Bicycle Co-op, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located at FlowerField (Unit 18) in St James. The organization fixes up and provides free bikes, classes and access to repair tools, promoting health, safety, education & the concept of “paying it forward” through Recycling, Education and Community. Residents can drop off used bicycles free of charge at MSF during regular hours.

Residents can also unload “plastic film” products such as shipping bags, grocery bags, bubble wrap, dry cleaning bags, zip-loc bags, produce bags, etc. The plastic film will be repurposed through NexTrex Recycling to produce various products such as recycled composite lumber. 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island Clothing & Textile Bins are now located at MSF. Clothing and other textiles may be dropped off at these bins during regular business hours.  There is no charge however, donation receipts are not provided. 

TOS Announces Fall Horseshoe Tournament Winners

On Saturday, October 28th, 2023, the Smithtown Recreation Department held its annual Singles and Doubles Fall Horseshoe Tournament at Gibbs Pond Park.

The winner of the Singles Tournament was Paul Williams with a record of 5-1. Ed Riss finished 2nd with a 3-2 record. Roman Pepkowski came in 3rd place with a 1-1 record. Paul Williams beat Ed Riss in the final 24 – 9.

Paul Williams and Andy Kassay were the winners of the Doubles competition with a 3-0 record. Bernie Van Rossem and Ed Riss finished in 2nd place with a record of 1-1. Paul Williams and Andy Kassay beat Bernie Van Rossem and Ed Riss in the final 21-9.

Congratulations to all the winners and to everyone who helped make this event so successful. We hope to see everyone at the Spring Horseshoe Tournament in May.
Contact the Smithtown Recreation Department 631 – 360 – 7644 for more information.