🚔 Arson Investigated, Former Superintendent Charged, and Honoring History

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Local Pulse

🔥 A North Bellport home on Taylor Avenue caught fire Monday morning, prompting an arson investigation by Suffolk police. The residents escaped safely, and the American Red Cross assisted five individuals affected by the incident. [Patch]

🚔 Former Pat-Med Superintendent Michael Hynes has been charged with DWI following a crash in Sayville. Police say the incident occurred Sunday night, with Hynes allegedly driving under the influence. [MSN News]

🪦 The Cemetery Restoration Committee in Patchogue continues its dedicated work to preserve a historic local cemetery containing graves of veterans from multiple wars and notable Suffolk County figures. With community donations and a $7,295 matching grant from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, the group restores headstones and maintains the site’s history through cleanups and fundraisers. [GLI]

Local Real Estate

Medford Real Estate Market: A Seller's Dream

The housing market in Medford, NY, continues to favor sellers, with median home prices climbing steadily. In December 2024, the median sold price reached $545,000, a 13.5% increase from the previous year. The median price per square foot also rose to $340. With limited inventory and increased demand, homes are selling faster and often above asking price.

Medford's real estate market reflects a broader trend in rising home values across nearby areas. Yaphank saw the highest year-over-year increase at 47%, while Gordon Heights and Farmingville also experienced notable growth. The increase spans all property sizes, with five-bedroom homes leading the way at 12% growth, followed by three-bedroom homes at 11.6%.

Despite the rising prices, the inventory of homes available for sale is shrinking. The number of homes on the market dropped 27.8% month-over-month to just 70 in December 2024. Single-bedroom homes experienced the sharpest decline, with a 50% reduction in listings. This low inventory, combined with 67% of homes selling above the asking price, underscores the competitive nature of the market.

The average time to sell a home in Medford was just 30 days in December 2024, slightly faster than the previous year. Most homes sold within 30 days, leaving buyers with little time to deliberate.

For those considering entering the Medford housing market, working with an experienced real estate agent and acting quickly could make the difference in securing a home. Whether you're buying or selling, Medford's housing market remains dynamic and fast-paced.

Local Pulse

Will Cicadas Return to New York in 2025?

As spring approaches, the iconic buzz of cicadas is set to return to parts of New York as Brood XIV emerges after 17 years underground. Billions of these periodical insects are expected to appear across 13 states, including New York, Georgia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, starting in April. Brood XIV cicadas will emerge when soil temperatures reach approximately 64°F, with sightings in New York likely peaking in May and June.

The last time Brood XIV was seen was in 2008. This year's emergence will focus on regions such as Long Island and areas near New York City, although their exact population in New York remains uncertain due to declining numbers and environmental challenges like droughts. Male cicadas will produce their signature loud calls, some recorded at decibel levels exceeding 100, to attract mates. Following mating, females lay eggs on tree branches, and within weeks, young cicadas retreat underground for another 17-year cycle.

Residents curious about these unique insects can participate in citizen science by reporting sightings through the Cicada Safari app, which allows users to document and submit photos to researchers.

To learn more about Brood XIV and contribute to ongoing studies, visit the Cicada Safari website or download the app via the Apple Store or Google Play.

Source: Democrat and Chronicle

Community Highlights

• The Patchogue St. Patrick's Day Parade has announced its Grand Marshal for this year's celebration, bringing excitement to the upcoming event. Patchogue St. Patrick's Day Parade

• Learning to Look: The Art of Printmaking on Thursday JAnuary 23, offers a fascinating exploration of printmaking techniques and artistry. Discover the creative process behind this timeless art form in an engaging and educational experience.

• Sing Off Series Finale takes place on Thursday, February 6 at 7:00 PM at 89 North Music Venue. Experience an exciting night of music and competition starting at just $23.18. Don't miss this showcase of

• The Oar is offering a new prix fixe menu weekly, featuring delicious and creative dishes to enjoy. The Oar

• Fan Halen, known as "The World’s Most Authentic Tribute to Van Halen," will perform on Saturday, January 25th, 2025, at 8:00 PM, delivering a high-energy experience that captures the essence of the legendary rock band. Patchogue Theatre

• Two legendary founders of The Rascals, Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish, are reuniting for an unforgettable performance, featuring their timeless hits like “Groovin’” and “Good Lovin’.” Presale begins Wednesday, January 22 at 10 AM, with public sales starting Friday, January 24 at 10 AM. Patchogue Theatre

• The Town of Brookhaven’s Women’s Services Division is hosting a free “Prepare for Financial Success in the New Year” workshop on January 22, from 6 PM to 7:30 PM, at Brookhaven Town Hall. Financial advisor Denise J. Nostrom will guide attendees on goal-setting, budgeting, and managing debt.

• The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) is holding a public hearing in New York on January 22, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Marine Resources Headquarters in Kings Park, to discuss proposed changes to recreational fishing measures. The hearing offers both in-person and virtual participation, with written feedback accepted until February 15, 2025. More Information.

• The Bellport-Brookhaven Historical Society Museum is hosting "Farm to Fabric with Isabella" on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM, exploring the journey of textiles from agricultural origins to finished products. BBHS Museum

• Krush The Band NY and Mean Machine will perform live at 89 North Music Venue in Patchogue, NY, on February 7, 2025. Don't miss this concert! More Information

• Plaza Cinema is showcasing The Brutalist, a grand and critically acclaimed epic about an architect rebuilding his life post-war, from January 24-30, 2025. With 7 Golden Globe nominations and multiple wins, this captivating film stars Adrien Brody in an award-winning performance. Plaza Cinema

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