🚨 From Crashes to Concerts — What’s Happening Locally

Good Morning,

This week starts with a mix of tough news and uplifting moments — from a tragic crash in Medford to inspiring community efforts like the St. Baldrick’s fundraiser. Plus, local arts, music, and events offer plenty of ways to connect, create, and enjoy the season.

-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

Local Pulse

🚒 A fire truck with it’s emergency lights on in Medford, collided with a car on Thursday, killing the car's driver. The cause of the crash is under investigation. [Firehouse]

🚧 Overnight closures are scheduled this week on the Long Island Expressway in the Town of Brookhaven for road maintenance. Drivers should expect detours starting Tuesday. [Patch]

⚖️ Joshua Guzman of East Patchogue faces new charges for allegedly selling carfentanil—a drug 100 times more potent than fentanyl—to a man who later died of an overdose. Suffolk DA Ray Tierney criticized Guzman's admission into a diversion program just days after the alleged sale. [Newsday]

🚔 Envey Garcia-Zambrano was arrested in Freeport for allegedly driving drunk with a 1-year-old in the car, Nassau County Police said. Officers pulled him over in a traffic stop and reportedly failed a sobriety test. [Daily Voice]

💈 The St. Baldrick’s event at Harbor Crab in Patchogue helped raise over $20,000 for childhood cancer research, with dozens shaving their heads in solidarity with young cancer patients. The community-driven effort continues to grow each year. Long Island News 12

Community Highlights

• The Patchogue Arts Council is hosting Learning to Look | Myth in Art on March 27, an engaging talk exploring how cultures from around the world represent their myths through visual art. Attend in person at PAC•MoCA L.I. or join via Zoom using Meeting ID: 880 1524 8901 and Passcode: 419010. [Patchogue Arts Council]

• Pianist and composer JK Hodge will present The Deep Roots of Music on Long Island on April 13 at 2:00 PM at the Bayport-Blue Point Library, exploring the region’s rich musical history. [Bayport-Blue Point Heritage Association]

• Bellport Village is hosting Senior Program Game Day on Tuesdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 4 Bell Street. Seniors are invited to enjoy games, socialize, and have fun every Tuesday!

• The annual St. Baldrick’s Day fundraiser returns to Momo’s Too in Bayport on March 22, 2025. Participants will shave their heads to support childhood cancer research, with live entertainment and community activities throughout the event. [Greater Long Island]

• Blues songstress Beth Hart is set to perform at the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts on April 22, 2025, at 8:00 PM. Don’t miss the chance to see her live! [Patchogue Patch]

• The Patchogue Arts Council invites you to CACCIO AL TESORO | TREASURE HUNT, an edumusical performance at The Suffolk in Riverhead on April 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM. Written and directed by Simona Rodano, this immersive bilingual show brings Italian traditions to life with music, dance, and storytelling. Patchogue Arts Council

• The Village of Bellport will hold a Tentative Budget Hearing for the 2025–2026 fiscal year on March 24 at 6:00 PM at Bellport Community Center. [Village of Bellport]

• The Colony Shop, a longtime staple in downtown Patchogue, offers a unique selection of formalwear and has become a cherished local destination for generations of shoppers. [Newsday]

Community Highlights

Discover our Parks: NY State Parks Launch Yearlong Wellness Challenge

From January through December 2025, New Yorkers are encouraged to connect with nature and boost their physical and mental health through the New York State Parks Wellness Challenge. The program includes 50 wellness-related “missions” that can be completed at state parks and historic sites across the Empire State—many of which are right in our own backyard. Whether it's a serene hike, a yoga session under the trees, a relaxing picnic, or a nature walk with friends, the challenge offers flexible, feel-good ways to enjoy the outdoors while supporting a healthier lifestyle.

Participants can track their progress and explore new locations while building habits that contribute to long-term wellness. It’s a family-friendly and accessible initiative that invites everyone, regardless of fitness level, to engage with the natural beauty and resources of state parks.

With many of these parks located right in our region, it’s a great opportunity for locals to explore nearby trails, beaches, and historic grounds—while working toward a fun and rewarding goal. Ready to take the challenge? Visit parks.ny.gov/wellness-challenge to get started and make 2025 a year of wellness in the wild.

Calling All Artists: Help Design the Official PGSB 2025 Logo

The Patchogue Arts Council has launched its annual call to artists for the official logo design of Paint the Great South Bay (PGSB) 2025, inviting the local arts community to put their creative stamp on one of the area’s most anticipated events. Artists of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to participate by submitting original artwork that represents the spirit of PGSB.

Submissions must be at least 2x2 inches and feature the text "PGSB 2025." While linoleum prints have traditionally been the medium of choice, all styles are welcome. The only requirement is that designs remain simple, graphic, and easy to read.

The artist whose design is chosen will receive complimentary entry to PGSB 2025, a free Patchogue Arts Council (PAC) membership or renewal, and exclusive merchandise featuring their artwork.

Designs should be submitted as high-resolution JPEGs to info@patchoguearts.org by midnight on March 25, 2025. Artists using printmaking methods like linoleum should photograph their final stamped image. All entries should include “PGSB Logo Submission” in the email subject line.

The winning logo will be announced by April 1, 2025, and will serve as the official visual for the event’s promotions. More details are available via Patchogue Arts Council.

Local Sports

💪 Medford native David Granucci came through in the clutch for Maritime, ripping a two-run single in the bottom of the ninth to cap a late rally against No. 19 Rutgers-Camden. Despite his heroics, the Privateers fell just short in a 5-4 loss in Winter Haven, FL.

🎾 Hunter College edged out St. Joseph’s-Long Island 5-4 in their season opener, winning two of three doubles matches and splitting singles play for a tight road victory in Patchogue. Alexander Hagiu and Raymond Lau led the way with a strong showing at No. 1 doubles. Hunter College Athletics

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