Loss, Lawsuits & Live Music

Good Morning,

There’s a lot going on around town this week. We’re following a heartbreaking crash in Medford, a tough legal battle for two beloved Dairy Queen owners, and delays on important sidewalk and housing projects in Patchogue as the federal shutdown lingers.

-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

Local Pulse

🚨 A 22-year-old man was killed and three others injured when a BMW crashed into trees early Monday morning in Medford, Suffolk County. The crash happened around 2:50 a.m. on Bellport Avenue, according to police. [Daily Voice]

💔 A GoFundMe has been launched for the beloved “DQ Sisters” of Medford after a lawsuit over a little-known pay law jeopardized their Dairy Queen franchise. Patty DeMint and Michelle Robey are known for mentoring staff and giving second chances in their community. [Daily Voice]

Local Pulse

Patchogue CDA Navigates Federal Shutdown as Sidewalk Improvement Projects Await Funding Release

The Patchogue Village Community Development Agency (CDA) convened on October 2nd to review ongoing projects, financials, and the potential impact of the federal government shutdown on housing operations. While the meeting began with routine approvals, including the minutes from September 4th and a detailed financial report, attention quickly turned to more pressing matters.

A key agenda item was the $150,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) contract for sidewalk improvements on Waverly Avenue and accessibility ramps on Hillside Avenue. Though the mayor has signed the contract, execution awaits final approval from the Town of Brookhaven and the required environmental review. Once complete, a release of funds will allow the village to move forward with procurement and construction.

CDA Executive Director Marian Zucker also addressed concerns over the government shutdown's impact on Section 8 housing. The agency received full October funding but anticipates shortfalls for November unless reserves are released by HUD. Board members discussed possible delays in lease-ups and the difficult decisions that may follow if funding stalls. A contingency plan is in place, and Zucker committed to updating the board and possibly notifying participants and landlords if conditions worsen.

To see the full meeting Patchogue Village

Community Highlights

• All You Need Is George, a live all-star tribute to George Harrison featuring Jackie Greene, Steve Kimock, and more, is coming to town on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Tickets go on sale October 10.

• Take a peaceful virtual stroll through downtown Patchogue in this 4K walking tour by Walking with Genny, showcasing the charm and walkability of one of Long Island’s most inviting villages.

• Sherri Shepherd brings her Make It Make Sense Tour to the Patchogue Theatre on Saturday, January 31 at 7pm, promising an evening of sharp wit and hilarious storytelling. Patchogue Theatre

• RUMBA in Patchogue is hosting a 3-floor Silent Disco Takeover this Friday, October 10, with multiple DJs and island cocktails to keep the party flowing. Reserve your spot early and grab a headset before they run out!

• The Brookhaven Highway Department and Suffolk County Sheriff's Office are offering a free Child Safety Seat Check on October 23 from 3–7 PM at Safety Town in Holtsville. Brookhaven Safety Event

• Massachusetts hard rockers ALL SINNERS return with We Own the Night, a bold new album out November 14 via Rat Pak Records, blending classic metal grit with modern melodic intensity. Catch them live this Thursday, October 9, in Patchogue as they join LA Guns at 89 North.

• The Bayport-Blue Point Heritage Association invites the community to its General Membership Meeting on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 2–4 PM at the BBP Library, featuring The Devil in New York: The Witchcraft Trial of Goody Garlick with Dr. Tara Rider of Stony Brook University. [Bayport-Blue Point Heritage Association]

• The Patchogue Theatre is celebrating The Goonies 40th Anniversary with a special screening and live Q&A featuring Corey Feldman and Kerri Green on March 22, 2026. [Patchogue Theatre]

• The SCPD 5th Precinct and community partners are hosting Bellport Unity Day at Robert Rowley Park on Monday, October 13, 2025, from 12–3 PM, featuring a Trunk-Or-Treat, games, BBQ, and live music for the whole family. [SCPD 5th Precinct]

• The Bellport Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Discover Bellport Sidewalk Sale, a full day of shopping and local deals on Saturday, October 11 from 10 AM to 6 PM. [Bellport Chamber of Commerce]

• Patchogue Arts Council • MoCA L.I. is presenting Shades of Acceptance by Shay Steuart, a mixed-media visual autobiography exploring identity, adoption, and authenticity through photography and painting. The exhibition runs through December 15, 2025, at the PAC • MoCA L.I. Satellite Gallery with SEPA Mujer. [Patchogue Arts Council]

• Gateway’s Haunted Playhouse is offering a $10 discount on tickets Sunday through Thursday. Use code FEAR at checkout to save on your terrifying trip through The Harvester. [The Gateway]

• The Town of Brookhaven is accepting entries for its Recycles Poster Contest until Oct. 28. Students can submit artwork on the themes Choose to Reuse! or Recycle Right! for a chance to be honored by the Town Board and featured in local publications. [Town of Brookhaven]

• Fire Island News profiles returning cover artist Diane Keil, whose nostalgic new piece Through the Eyes of a Child graces the end-of-summer edition, with her work on exhibit at Bayard Cutting Arboretum through Oct. 19. [Fire Island News]

• Plaza Cinema & Media Arts Center is showing Eleanor the Great until Oct. 8—a heartwarming drama about a 90-year-old woman starting over in New York and forging an unexpected friendship. [Plaza Cinema & Media Arts Center]

• The Gateway Performing Arts Center is hosting its Haunted Masquerade Fundraiser on Friday, October 10 at 6:30 PM, promising a spooky and elegant evening to support the arts. [Email or call 631-286-8851 for ticket info.]

• The Bellport Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Welcome Autumn Members Network Meeting on October 8 at Porters on the Lane, featuring a hands-on brand strategy workshop led by Aditi Mukherjee of Chai Gate. Dinner is included, and attendees will leave with ready-to-use social media content. [Bellport Chamber of Commerce]

Community Highlights

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