Legal Drama, Gene Hackman’s LI Ties & Can’t-Miss Events

Good Morning,

Today’s news is a mix of serious headlines and local highlights. Two high-profile legal cases are unfolding, including charges against a former school superintendent and a retired FDNY captain. Meanwhile, we remember the late Gene Hackman and his early days at Bellport’s Gateway Playhouse. Plus, there’s plenty happening in the community—from St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to live music and history talks.

Stay informed, stay connected, and as always, thanks for reading!

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-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

Local Pulse

🚔 Former Patchogue-Medford schools superintendent Michael Hynes has pleaded not guilty to a vehicular assault charge after allegedly driving under the influence and injuring another driver. His license has been suspended as the case moves forward. Greater Long Island

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Local Pulse

Retired FDNY Captain Pleads Not Guilty in Fatal Bay Shore Dispute

A retired FDNY captain from Babylon has pleaded not guilty to a first-degree manslaughter charge after authorities say he fatally attacked another man outside a Bay Shore church on Thursday night. Police identified the suspect as 66-year-old James Rogers and the victim as 65-year-old Mark Iacono of Patchogue.

The altercation took place outside the Bay Shore United Methodist Church on East Main Street around 8:45 p.m. Suffolk County police stated that Rogers and Iacono were acquainted, and the incident stemmed from a dispute over money. Rogers allegedly struck Iacono multiple times with his fists before remaining at the scene, where he was arrested. Iacono was transported to South Shore University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

According to Rogers' attorney, Robert A. Macedonio, both men had attended an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at the church earlier that evening. Macedonio described the fatal altercation as the result of a "business dispute." Rogers, a retired FDNY captain who served 22 years, is now a registered nurse and operates two assisted living facilities. He has no prior criminal history.

During his arraignment at First District Court in Central Islip, Rogers pleaded not guilty. Judge Evan Zuckerman set bail at $500,000 cash, a $1 million insured bond, or a $5 million partially secured surety bond. Rogers is scheduled to return to court on March 11.

The church’s pastor, Rev. Daehyun Park, expressed shock upon learning of the fatality, stating he had witnessed police tape and emergency vehicles in the parking lot but was unaware of the severity of the situation.

Original story in Newsday By John Valenti 

Gene Hackman’s Long Island Beginnings: The Gateway to a Legendary Career

Before Gene Hackman became an Oscar-winning Hollywood icon, his acting journey had a Long Island connection that played a crucial role in shaping his career. In the summer of 1957, Hackman took his first steps into the world of acting as an unpaid apprentice at the Gateway Playhouse in Bellport.

Fresh from California’s Pasadena Playhouse, where he and classmate Dustin Hoffman were once voted “least likely to succeed,” Hackman landed at Gateway through a connection with fellow aspiring actor Robert Duvall. His initial work involved behind-the-scenes duties—building sets, finding props, and handling lights—but it wasn’t long before he stepped onto the stage.

Hackman’s first roles at Gateway included a small part in Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? and a brief turn as a police officer in Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution. His breakthrough came when director Ulu Grosbard cast him as Marco in Arthur Miller’s A View From the Bridge. Grosbard’s encouragement and introduction to acting teacher George Morrison helped set Hackman on his path.

While Hackman initially envisioned a career in theater, starring on Broadway in Any Wednesday in 1964, his talent soon found a home in Hollywood. His performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven cemented his legacy as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

Hackman, who passed away at 95, leaves behind a storied career—but for Long Islanders, his journey will always be rooted in Bellport, where he first honed his craft.

Original Story in Newsday By Daniel Bubbeo

Community Highlights

• St. Patrick's Day Parade – Bayport-Blue Point 🍀 Save the date! The BBP Chamber of Commerce has announced that the St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on March 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with a rain date of March 30. This year, the BBPHA is especially proud to celebrate Grand Marshals Craig & Wendy Clare. Wear your green and join the community for a festive celebration of Irish heritage and local pride!

• 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 ListenUp! Music & Arts Festival is happening on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Stereo Garden in Patchogue, NY. This 21+ event will feature live music and art, with tickets available for purchase. Learn more here.

•  Willie Lock is performing at Daisy's Nashville Lounge in Patchogue, NY, on March 8, 2025, at 8:00 PM EST. Admission is free!

• Join the Wilderness Survival Series: Finding & Purifying Water to learn essential survival skills. More details are available on the event page.

• Participate in the Patchogue Community Blood Drive - In Honor of The Ferrante Brothers on March 3. Learn more about the event and how to contribute on the event page.

• Bellport Village has announced a Tax Sale on March 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM for unpaid taxes on properties within the village. Interested parties can review the details and participate in the auction.

• La Plage Bistro is set to open in the former brewery location in Patchogue, bringing a new dining experience to the town. The restaurant will offer a mix of classic and modern cuisine in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

• General Membership Meeting – Avery's Five Mile Look

  Join the Bayport-Blue Point Heritage Association for a free and engaging General Membership Meeting on March 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the BBP Library. Historian Frank Giebfried will take attendees on a journey through the fascinating history of Avery’s Five Mile Look, a once-iconic hotel surrounded by scandal, gambling, rum-running, and its tragic end in 1939. Learn about the site's past and its future, including the restoration of the original fountain. Don't miss this exciting local history event!

Local Sports

🤼‍♂️ Bellport’s Camryn Howard made history as the school’s second-ever state wrestling champion, pinning defending champ Samson McKissick-Staley of Pittsford in just 1:14.

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