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Big Votes, Big Games & Summer Starts Early
Issue #195
Brian Grant
May 23, 2025
Good Morning,
As Memorial Day nears, our towns are busy with big decisions and bigger celebrations. Voters approved school budgets, student-athletes made headlines, and summer events are getting underway. As we honor those who served, we wish you a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend.
-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer
Local Pulse
📚 Bayport-Blue Point School District voters approved an $89.1M budget for 2025-2026, reflecting a 3.8% increase from last year and a 3.45% tax levy hike. Voters also backed a $10M capital reserve fund, and elected newcomer Jack Sautter to the school board. [Suffolk County News]
🚨 Suffolk County officer George Trimigliozzi has been indicted for rape and sexual abuse, accused of assaulting two women he met on dating apps in 2021 and 2022. Already facing charges for allegedly running brothels, the suspended officer remains in custody pending further court proceedings. [PIX11]
🏫 Voters in the Patchogue-Medford and South Country school districts approved their 2025-2026 budgets on Tuesday. South Country’s plan includes the elimination of 51 positions as part of cost-cutting measures.
Day in History
When Amber Light Meant Safety—A 1935 Lesson in Traffic Reform
In the Patchogue of 1935, what might seem like a small flicker—an amber light returning to a traffic signal—was actually a bright signal of progress in public safety. The Patchogue Advance’s May 24, 1935 report on the restoration of the amber caution light offers more than a glimpse into vintage traffic systems; it captures a pivotal moment when local government responded thoughtfully to residents’ concerns.
For two months, traffic lights in the village flipped directly from red to green, skipping that vital moment of caution that helps drivers adjust. It may seem trivial today, but the absence of a pause led to near accidents and mounting anxiety. With summer approaching and road activity rising, the public outcry became impossible to ignore. The village board’s initial attempt—to install a red light in all directions—was promptly shut down by a new state law. That left them with one practical choice: bring back the amber.
The decision to reinstate the yellow warning, mandated to flash for six seconds between red and green, reflected a balancing act between local control and state law, urgency and practicality. It also showcased a board willing to admit when something wasn’t working and take swift action before tragedy struck.
Today, we may take that middle light for granted. But back then, the amber’s return was a sign of community listening, legislative nuance, and a simple truth: sometimes, slowing down saves lives.
Community Highlights
Boardy Barn Sundays are making a raucous return at Blue Point Brewing Company in Patchogue on June 1, July 6, Aug. 3, and Aug. 31, bringing back the legendary summer party vibe of the original Hampton Bays bar. Patchogue’s Memorial Day Parade steps off at 11 a.m. on May 26, traveling along Main Street and honoring those who served with a community celebration. Village of Patchogue Patchogue’s Blessing of the Fleet returns on Sunday, May 25, with live music at five riverfront venues, clergy-led boat blessings, and water taxis connecting the party all afternoon. The Atlantic Wind Symphony presents its Senior Awards Concert and Solo Competition on June 1 at 3 p.m., showcasing top Long Island talent and celebrating musical excellence. Atlantic Wind Symphony The Kiwanis Club of Patchogue is hosting its first-ever Bayfest BBQ on June 14 at Fireman’s Park, featuring food, drinks, games, live music, and a $25,000 sweepstakes raffle—each $100 ticket includes entry and a chance to win. [Kiwanis Club of Patchogue] Caught by the Tides, a sweeping drama tracing a poignant love story across decades in China, is playing May 23–29. The Screening Room The Patchogue Outdoor Market kicks off its 2025 season on June 8 with over 30 vendors, live music, demos, and giveaways—including free tote bags and cranberry vodka for early birds. [Patchogue Outdoor Market] The Patchogue Arts Council is now accepting submissions for its Annual Juried Members Exhibition, Patchworks 2025, running from July 26 to September 7, with a reception on opening day. Open to all current members, artists can submit up to two works in any medium by the June 25 deadline. [Patchogue Arts Council] Join the celebration at the Patchogue Lions 4th of July Parade on July 4 at 10:30 AM, honoring the theme “Stars, Stripes, and Trailblazers” and featuring Mayor Paul Pontieri as Grand Marshal. Patchogue Village Calendar The Patchogue Arts Council has opened registration for its Paint the Great South Bay 2025 plein air event, where artists can paint scenes from Smith Point Beach to the Fire Island Lighthouse. The event runs June 27 to July 7, followed by an exhibition and Wet Paint Sale from July 10 to 20. [Patchogue Arts Council] Ozomatli brings their signature blend of Latin, hip-hop, and global beats to the stage for the 30 Revolutions Tour on August 15—a high-energy celebration of three decades of music and community. Ozomatli Tickets The beach opens weekends only starting May 24 for Bellport residents, with daily ferry service beginning June 30 (weather permitting). Bellport Beaches Experience a magical evening of original music with Robert Bruey and the Shadow Cats on June 7 at People’s Pub in Bayport—lilting harmonies, rich instrumentation, and poetic storytelling await. People’s Pub Citrus and Gold, Inc. is hosting Keys & Confidence: A First-Time Homebuyer Experience on June 1 in Patchogue, featuring dinner, expert panels, raffles, and tools to help first-time buyers gain confidence. [Citrus and Gold, Inc.] If you're interested in participating in the Village of Bellport Memorial Day Parade, please contact Village Hall at 631-286-0327 or visit the Village of Bellport's contact page to register and obtain details about the route, staging times, and guidelines. |
Community Highlights
Local Sports
⚾ Longwood's Brendan Rivera threw a no-hitter in a 4-0 playoff win over Patchogue-Medford, striking out eight and walking none in a dominant Suffolk Class AAA performance. The junior ace helped his team advance in the winner's bracket while honoring the memory of former teammate Nolan Horn. [Newsday]
🎾 Bayport-Blue Point has battled its way to the Section XI boys tennis championship match, knocking out Shoreham-Wading River and Elwood-John Glenn. They'll take on top-seeded Ross in the finals at Smithtown East High School on May 27. [Section XI]
🥍 Bayport-Blue Point girls lacrosse is set to host Islip in the Section XI playoffs on May 27 after securing the No. 1 seed in Division C. [Section XI]
🎓 Thirteen Bayport-Blue Point High School seniors signed letters of intent to play sports at NCAA Division III colleges, marking a proud moment for the school's athletic program. The students will compete in a range of sports including baseball, soccer, and lacrosse. [Greater Long Island]
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