Dueling political fundraisers in Islip

Call them dueling fundraisers.

Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter sent out a mailing two weeks ago soliciting for a fundraiser on Oct. 19.

A short time later, new Islip GOP chairman William Garbarino, whom Carpenter opposed, sent out his own mailing for a $125-a-head “Salute to Greatness” fundraiser for this year’s candidates, a week before the supervisor’s event.

Both fundraisers were scheduled for Capt. Bill’s in Bay Shore.

Later, Carpenter sent out a brief notice headlined, “CLARIFICATION” to supporters.

“We understand that there was some confusion with another event taking place the week before at the same location,” the notice read. “We want to clarify that Angie was unaware of this event and unfortunately will be unable to attend.”

”There’s no conflict,” said Garbarino. “Our fundraiser was for the candidates running this year and we invited all the town people to come and back the team.” He said Carpenter’s fundraiser “is a week later and only for her. It’s totally different.”

Garbarino said was unaware of Carpenter’s event and that he had no intention of undercutting her. He said Carpenter never told party headquarters about her date, the way potential scheduling conflicts are normally ironed out.

“I hope that her plans may change because we’d be happy to have her,” said Garbarino.

Rick Brand