Real ID Rush, Indian Eats, & New Housing

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Good Morning,

Take look at what’s shaping life in our community today—from housing and hometown flavors to community events.

📰 A big thank you to our sponsor, 1440 Media, for helping bring you today’s news—consider showing them some love and checking out their daily, fact-focused newsletter!

-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

Local Pulse

🪪 With the Real ID deadline approaching in May 2025, some Long Island motorists are experiencing long wait times and confusion at DMVs. Officials urge residents not to delay, as demand is expected to surge closer to the deadline. [News 12 Long Island]

🍛 Art of Spices has officially opened in downtown Patchogue, bringing authentic Indian cuisine to Main Street with a vibrant menu of traditional dishes. The new restaurant aims to introduce locals to the rich depth and variety of Indian flavors. [MSN]

⚖️ Jacquelyn Comiskey, 52, of Bellport pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking and other charges related to the case of a missing 14-year-old East Patchogue girl. Her lawyer claims she cooperated with police and helped in the girl’s recovery. [Newsday]

Local Pulse

New Affordable Housing Lottery Opens in East Patchogue with 38 Units Up for Grabs

East Patchogue’s latest affordable housing initiative, The Grove, is now accepting applications through a housing lottery open until April 29. Located on East Main Street, the 55-unit development includes 38 apartments available at reduced rents, starting at $1,575 for a one-bedroom and going up to $3,076 for a three-bedroom, based on income and household size. The project, developed by Georgica Green Ventures, aims to open this summer, with eligibility for individuals earning up to $65,640 and families of four earning up to $140,580.

The Grove is part of a broader revitalization effort in East Patchogue, following a $2 million state investment in a cultural arts center. Local civic leaders say the project will help draw more residents downtown, benefiting local businesses and energizing the community.

Seventeen units are reserved for survivors of domestic violence and will be coordinated by New Ground, a nonprofit based in Levittown. These residents will also have access to on-site support services. Additional features at The Grove include a fitness center, playroom, and 1,000 square feet of retail space.

Residents can apply at ggvllc.com/lottery.

Based on Story in Newday by Jonathan LaMantia

Community Highlights

• Bellport Village has opened Kids Camp Registration for summer programs, with sign-up starting April 7 for residents and April 21 for non-residents. [Bellport Village]

• The Suffolk County Department of Health Services and the Town of Brookhaven are offering free rabies vaccinations for pets on Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter. [Patch]

• 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!

• 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 Great South Bay Music Festival is set to take place from July 24 to 27, 2025, at Shorefront Park in Patchogue, NY. The festival features a diverse lineup, with Damian and Stephen Marley performing on Friday, July 25.

Local Sports

⚾ One of the top pitching talents on Long Island, Jayden Stroman returns to Patchogue-Medford after a stint at IMG Academy. The Duke commit and younger brother of Yankees starter Marcus Stroman features a fastball that hits 97 mph, a sharp curveball, and a developed changeup—now stepping into a starting role this season. [Newsday]

🥍 Bayport-Blue Point rallied from a 7-5 third-quarter deficit with four straight goals to edge out Garden City 9-8. Sara Richardt led the charge with four goals, including the game-winner in a thrilling finish. [News 12 Long Island]

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