Good Morning

A murder arrest in Yaphank, a major approval for a new Muslim cemetery in Bellport, and Long Island’s first adult-focused Pop Con lead this week’s local headlines. We also cover the Patchogue-Medford school board race and a packed calendar of community events.

Brian Grant

Editor

A paroled ex-convict allegedly fatally stabbed a 30-year-old mother of three in front of witnesses at a Yaphank Speedway gas station Saturday morning.  The suspect, who was paroled in March after a 2024 attempted assault conviction, was arrested Saturday evening and charged with second-degree murder. Read full story →

Bellport Muslim Cemetery has won approval from Brookhaven Town officials, clearing the way for the first faith-centered Muslim cemetery in New York State.  Organizers agreed to increase natural buffer areas by 32 percent in response to neighbor concerns and plan to hire locally from the North Bellport community. Read full story →

Patchogue-Medford Library is hosting Long Island's first Pop Con, an adult-focused Comic-Con style event on Saturday, May 30 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the main library on East Main Street. Food trucks and themed drinks will be available. Rain date is June 6. Read full story →

"Sponsored Article"

Mark Grossman, an experienced educator and former school board member, is running for the Patchogue-Medford Board of Education in the election set for Tuesday, May 19.

As the district faces pivotal changes, including a new superintendent and multiple board seats in play, Grossman stresses the value of seasoned leadership and strong collaboration with incoming officials.

• JOHNNYSWIM at Patchogue Theatre – The duo of Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano Ramirez bring their "Greetings from Georgica Pond" tour to Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts on Sunday, October 18 at 7:00 PM. The husband-and-wife team will perform music from their new album "When The War Is Over," blending singer-songwriter tradition with alternative flair, rock vigor, and pop ambition. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, May 20 at 10 AM and range from $47-$327 including fees. Available at the box office (71 East Main Street), by phone at 631-207-1313, or online. Learn more →

• Wining About Art – Art history meets curated wine tasting at this unique evening event. Explore "Pacific Currents: Creativity Along the West Coast" while enjoying a guided wine tasting experience. Perfect for art lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. Friday, May 22 at 7:00 PM. Get tickets →

• Kite Day at Shorefront Park – Patchogue Village invites families to Kite Day on Friday, May 23rd from 12:00-4:00 PM at Shorefront Park. Bring your kite and enjoy an afternoon of outdoor fun by the water. Learn more →

•The BBP Chamber of Commerce May Meeting is happening Wednesday, May 27th at Noon at the Bayport-Blue Point High School Auditorium.

• Free Christian Science Video Talk – Join us for "Equal Access to Grace - the Science of Spiritual Healing" with Tom McElory, C.S.B. This uplifting talk explores how divine grace can meet the need for healing of all kinds, and how this love is available to everyone without exception. Tuesday, May 19 at 1:00 PM. Learn more →

• NYS Senator Dean Murray & Assemblyman Joe DeStefano Event – Join NYS Senator Dean Murray and NYS Assemblyman Joe DeStefano for a community event on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Connect with your state representatives and learn about legislative updates affecting our community. Learn more →