Good Morning,

This week around Patchogue and nearby towns, there is a lot to catch up on. Student art is on display, local leaders and volunteers are being honored, and new programs are helping keep families safe and supported. We are also following an e-bike crash in North Bellport while sharing community events, local updates, and a little history along the way.

Brian Grant

Editor

A teen riding an electric bicycle in North Bellport was hit by an unlicensed driver. 
Thankfully, the teen only suffered minor injuries. Police are investigating the incident.

South Country students' artwork is being displayed in art shows in St. James and Stony Brook. The shows are a great opportunity for the students to showcase their artistic talents to the community.

Suffolk County's new Hall of Fame class features notable individuals inducted for their achievements and contributions. The announcement was made by County Executive Steve Bellone.

What was introduced in 1887 that brought Patchogue into the modern age?

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PSEG Long Island celebrated Good Samaritan Day by honoring the volunteer efforts of its employees who support neighbors in need.

Karen Mowbray, a dedicated Measurement Dispatcher from Patchogue, was among those recognized for her impactful community service, especially at veterans' events that bring her deep fulfillment.

Nearly 900 PSEG Long Island employees contributed over 8,000 volunteer hours in 2025, joining together for fundraising, food drives, and assistance to seniors, veterans, and those facing hardship.

Standout volunteers like Meghan Chambers, Gary DeFelice, Zach Elkort, and Danielle Neff each played vital roles in fall distribution programs for local veterans.

Company president Scott Jennings commended these actions, emphasizing the importance of both infrastructure and community bonds.

PSEG Long Island’s outreach also included Earth Month tree giveaways and the Power to Feed Long Island food drive, affirming its commitment to strengthening neighborhoods across the region.

The Patchogue-Medford Library and Suffolk County Sheriff's Office have launched the innovative R.E.A.D. program to support individuals reentering the community after incarceration.

Participants are given library cards while still in jail, allowing them access to educational materials, job search tools, and technology as soon as they are released.

Sheriff Errol Toulon emphasized that since most inmates eventually return home, providing them with these resources is crucial for successful reintegration and community safety.

Kevin Verbesey, from the Suffolk Cooperative Library System, praised the recognition of libraries as essential reentry partners, aiming for true community accessibility.

Library Director Danielle Paisley expressed pride in helping returning residents find information, support, and opportunity.

The START team oversees this effort, issuing confidential 90-day cards that protect participant privacy.

This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to giving everyone a fair chance and building a more inclusive Suffolk County.

Senator Dean Murray will host an Operation Safe Child ID event at the Bayport-Blue Point Public Library on March 20, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM.

He’ll be joined by Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo, Congressman Andrew Garbarino, Legislator Dominick Thorne, and the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office.

The program allows families to easily obtain updated ID cards for their children, helping authorities respond quickly in emergencies.

Parents and kids can stop by anytime during the event for safety resources and to create personal Safe Child ID cards.

This effort follows other community initiatives, including a Pink Out Game led by the Bayport–Blue Point Varsity Cheerleaders, raising funds for breast cancer support, and the district’s Community & Cocoa 5K, promoting suicide prevention.

Together, these events reinforce the commitment to keeping Bayport-Blue Point safe and supportive for every resident.

• A free Bicycle Rodeo will take place March 28 where kids can practice riding in a mock roadway and learn bicycle safety skills. 

Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled for Thursday, March 19 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 4 Bell Street in Bellport.

Stay informed about events for Bellport Village seniors like exercise classes, craft workshops, and group trips.

Learn basic fly-casting techniques with the Long Island Chapter of Trout Unlimited at this informative event held in Connetquot River State Park Preserve.

• Daisy’s Nashville Lounge in Patchogue is hosting the official St. Patrick’s Day Parade after party this Sunday, March 22.

• Patchogue Medford Youth & Community Services is hosting its annual Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at the North Patchogue Fire Department with two seatings from 8 to 9:30 AM and 10 to 11:30 AM. Tickets are $20 for adults 18 and up, $10 for kids ages 5 to 17, and free for children under 5.

• Brookhaven Highway Department is hosting a free  Child Safety Seat Check on Thursday, March 26. Appointments are required.

Aroogas Sports Tavern & Game Room in Patchogue is inviting the community to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Patchogue parade on Sunday, March 22 at 12 PM.

Electricity was introduced in Patchogue in 1887 when miller Edward Terry converted his gristmill on West Main Street into a small power plant by installing turbines.