Big Shows, Big Hearts & a JetBlue Detour

Good Morning,

We’ve got a little of everything: a plane scare in the sky, a heartwarming story of one family's final gift, and some exciting shows coming to town. Plus, what really matters most to homebuyers on the South Shore? Let’s get into it.

-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

Local Pulse

🚔 A man near Academy Street in Bayport allegedly claimed he had a gun but didn’t show it. He was last seen walking south on New York Avenue. NewsBreak

✈️ A JetBlue flight from Long Island MacArthur Airport to Orlando was forced to land at JFK after the crew reported a possible engine issue, the FAA said. The plane landed safely, and an investigation is underway. Patch

💝 A Patchogue family honored late great-grandmothe’s legacy by donating her liver to save a 65-year-old grandfather from Commack who was just months from death. The emotional meeting between families celebrated the life-saving “last gift” from a woman known for her generosity. New York Post

Community Highlights

Buyers Weigh Charm vs. Practicality in South Shore’s Housing Market

In the evolving landscape of the South Shore real estate market, walkable downtowns with bustling local businesses remain a sought-after feature. But, not necessarily a dealbreaker. Local real estate professionals report that while vibrant town centers like Babylon, Sayville, and Patchogue offer undeniable charm and lifestyle appeal, priorities still differ across buyer groups.

Eileen Baradzi of Netter Real Estate notes that for families and long-term investors, strong school districts often outweigh walkability. “Even older buyers without school-age children recognize the resale value,” she said, emphasizing that access to quality education is frequently the top concern.

Still, there’s no denying the growing allure of community-centric living. Jeanne Edwards of Douglas Elliman explains that buyers are drawn to neighborhoods where everyday needs, work, and social life are all within reach. She credits the South Shore’s historical development—dating back to the 1860s railroad expansion—for creating diverse housing options in these walkable towns.

David Sanders of Compass echoes that sentiment, saying today’s buyers are “chasing a feeling,” where lifestyle and location blend effortlessly. Meanwhile, Amanda Wood, who lives near downtown Lindenhurst, points to the community pride that comes from living in a lively, accessible town.

See the full article by Samantha Salerno in Fire Island News

Community Highlights

• Hammer of the Gods: The Led Zeppelin Experience is coming to the Patchogue Theatre for an electrifying tribute show on Saturday, October 25 at 8:00pm. [BroadwayWorld]

• EagleMania: The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute is coming to the Patchogue Theatre for a one-night performance on Friday, November 14. [BroadwayWorld]

• The Bayport-Blue Point Chamber of Commerce is hosting its August General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, August 27 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at People’s Pub, featuring half-price beer and wine from 6–7 PM and complimentary appetizers. [Bayport-Blue Point Chamber of Commerce]

• The 42nd Annual Snapper Derby returns to Mascot Dock in Patchogue on Saturday, August 23 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, with prizes, bait provided, and fun for young anglers ages 6 and up. [J&J Sport Fishing]

• The South Country Library is hosting a free outdoor screening of Finding Nemo at the Bellport Marina Bandshell on Wednesday, August 20 from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. [South Country Library]

• The 17th Annual Sandcastle Contest takes place Saturday, August 23 at Ho Hum Beach, with prizes, local recognition, and fun for all Bellport residents. [Bellport Village Program Fund]

• The Sitting Ducks are performing smooth classic yacht rock as part of the Bellport Summer Bandshell Concert Series on Friday, August 22 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. [Bellport Village]

• A new temporary exhibit opens August 16 at the William Floyd Estate, showcasing life on the historic property and recent rehabilitation efforts. The exhibit runs weekends through September 27. [Fire Island National Seashore]

• The Village of Patchogue’s Planning Board/Architectural Advisory Committee is holding its next meeting on August 26 at 6:00 pm, where upcoming development plans and architectural proposals will be reviewed. [Village of Patchogue]

• Bellport Village and the Bellport Village Program Fund will host the annual Sandcastle Contest on Saturday, August 23 at Ho Hum Beach, with prizes and recognition in local media. Registration takes place at Ho Hum Beach.

• The Patchogue Arts Council and Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce present LED: Light Evoking Dreams, October 23–28, transforming Patchogue into a surreal dreamscape with projections, performances, interactive art, and a new Let’s Get Weird Film Festival. Don’t miss this glowing celebration—mark your calendars and plan your visit! [Patchogue Arts Council]

• Experience Meadow Croft After Dark on August 23 with Postcards from Papa, an evening of history, storytelling, and drinks in the Roosevelt summer home featuring guest presenter Brittany Cutrone of Laughlin Vineyard. [Bayport-Blue Point Heritage Association]

• The Gateway Playhouse will present Phantom by Maury Yeston and Arthur Kopit, a lush and emotional retelling of the Phantom story, running from August 1 to 31 with a 24-member cast and grand stage spectacle. Long Island Advance

• The Patchogue Arts Council is accepting submissions for Arts on Terry 2025, a curated contemporary art street fair on September 14, featuring booth space for fine artists. [Patchogue Arts Council]

Community Highlights

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