A couple of weeks ago at the request of the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) I mentioned the West Nile Virus in this column. I would like to update you with more information on this topic as per Nassau County's July 10 press release.

To date, no mosquitoes, birds, horses or humans have tested positive for West Nile Virus in Nassau County. The Nassau County Departments of Health and Public Works are conducting mosquito control efforts by inspecting breeding sites and, when necessary, applying larvicide. Mosquito surveillance will continue at 42 trap sites located throughout the county.

Nassau County will not be applying adulticide for mosquito control of West Nile Virus, but will be routinely larviciding by helicopter in the South Shore marshes for the control of mosquito larvae.

To report a dead bird or a mosquito problem, please call 571-8707 Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; or www.co.nassau.ny.us/health/WestNileVirus.html.

The health department suggests that you continue your everyday activities such as outdoor sports, gardening, walking, etc. They offered a number of things that you can do to protect yourself and your family such as:

* Avoid areas with high mosquito populations, including going out in the early a.m. and at dusk;

* Clean and unclog rain gutters to keep them draining properly;

* Remove or empty standing water from old tires, garbage cans, pails, children's toys or any object that can hold water;

* Avoid using bug zappers since they also kill beneficial insects;

* Replace outdoor lights with yellow "bug" lights;

* Install/repair screens on windows and doors;

* Wear a hat, socks, loose fitting long pants and long-sleeved shirt; women should avoid wearing perfume; and

* If desired, apply mosquito repellent that contains "DEET," carefully follow directions on the container, especially when using with children. When overused or used improperly, repellents may cause allergic and toxic reactions. Remember, do not allow children to apply repellents to themselves. Check with your local pharmacist regarding the best "over the counter" product you should use.

Long Island's newest sports team has been making headlines and winning fans since their season began two years ago. Playing at the brand new EAB Park in Central Islip, Ducks' games have been drawing an average of over 5,700 fans for each game. The five playgrounds will be taking a trip to see the Ducks play on Tuesday, July 29. Buses will depart from each of the five playgrounds at 5 p.m. and will return to the pool at the end of the game. The cost of the trip will be $10 per person, which includes a ticket to the game and transportation to and from the stadium. Supervision for this trip will be provided by Recreation Department personnel. There is a limited number of tickets available for this game. Please register at the playground nearest to your home for this trip.

Compliments are due to the recreation department for arranging this season's outstanding Concert Series at the Village Gazebo, located on the Village Green at the corner of Stewart and Hilton Avenues. This week's program, scheduled for this Thursday, July 24, will feature Libby and Company - free form jazz for your enjoyment.

The program will begin at 7:15 and admission is free. Please bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a very pleasant evening. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be held at the Cultural and Performing Arts Center at Cluett Hall at the St. Paul's School. Please contact the recreation program line (742-5888) with questions pertaining to the concert.