FLANDERS, N.Y. — A new sign put up last year to replace a “Welcome to Flanders” sign has now been vandalized, police said.
Southampton police responded Tuesday to a report of the damaged sign, located at the corner of Pleasure Drive and County Road 105 in Flanders.
The sign for “Pleasure Drive” was also removed from its position. According to police, the license plate is believed to have been damaged and stolen within the last few days.
City of Southampton detectives are appealing for help to identify the person responsible. Anyone with information about the incidents is asked to contact detectives at 631-702-2230. the Southampton police tip line at 631-728-3454 or email tips, crimetips@southamptontownny.gov.
In May last year, an insurance company undertook to replace the “Welcome to Flanders: Home of the Big Duck” sign that went up in February.
Aflac donated the new $7,000 sign. Angela Huneaul, president of the FRNCA commented at the time: “When the sign was stolen in February it was devastating for the community. Who would want to steal a sign that has been there for over 20 years?”
Aflac, he said, immediately contacted FRNCA, offering to replace the “Welcome to Flanders” sign. “We are overwhelmed by their generosity. We are a 501c3 and rely on business support, membership and a grant from the city. We didn't know how or when we would be able to replace the sign,” Huneal said.
FRNCA, he said, is maintaining the Riverside traffic circle and landscaping around the six “welcome” signs.
“At the end of each year, we hope to have enough to carry us into the next year. This gift from Aflac was overwhelming and received with open arms,” he said. “They heard our story and wanted to do what they could to bring joy to a horrible situation.”
