Remembering Joe Keyes, New Park Plans & a Bizarre History Lesson

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Patchogue’s Conservation Tree Committee is making big strides in urban greening, from Arbor Day celebrations to planting over 40 new trees.

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Local Pulse

📰 The Patchogue community is mourning the loss of longtime village trustee Joe Keyes, who passed away suddenly at 70. A dedicated public servant for years, Keyes played a key role in environmental initiatives, parks development, and was set to serve as grand marshal for this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. His funeral will take place on Saturday at First Baptist Church in Patchogue. [Patch]

🌳 Plans for a new park in Patchogue are moving forward, with officials releasing details ahead of an upcoming rendering. The project aims to enhance green space and provide new recreational opportunities for the community. A formal rendering is expected soon, giving residents a clearer vision of what’s to come. [Suffolk County News]

🚔 Police are searching for a suspect who broke a window and stole a cash register from a restaurant in East Patchogue. The burglary occurred in the early hours, and authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying the individual. [Patch]

🌳 The Patchogue Conservation Tree Committee is preparing for its Arbor Day ceremony on April 25 while advancing tree conservation efforts. Plans include removing declining trees, planting over 40 new ones by 2026, and launching public education initiatives. Future projects also focus on lake shore revegetation and a Memorial Tree Program.

Day in History

The Curious Baby Giveaway at the Patchogue Elks' Barn Dance

On March 14, 1930, the Patchogue Lodge of Elks hosted its annual barn dance, promising rustic charm, lively music, and an unusual twist: the giveaway of two live babies.

Though details remain scarce and no follow-up records exist, such giveaways were not entirely unheard of in the early 20th century. Informal adoption practices were common, and it’s likely the babies were placed with families rather than being literal "prizes." Although I did find a similar case around the same time recorded in Oregon. Public reaction at the time is unknown, but the event reflects the unconventional ways communities navigated hardship during the Great Depression.

Community Highlights

• The BBP Chamber Saint Patrick's Day Parade is happening this Sunday, March 16th at 11 AM along Montauk Hwy! 🎉 But before the big event, volunteers are needed—join the Parade Marshal Volunteer Meeting this Saturday at 9 AM at the Bayport-Blue Point Library and enjoy some café treats while helping make the parade a success. ☘️ Bayport-Blue Point Chamber of Commerce

• Guitar legend Michael Schenker is bringing his iconic UFO classics back to the stage on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts. Tickets, will go on sale to the public on Friday, March 14, 2025.

• The Bayport-Blue Point Chamber of Commerce is hosting its next Chamber meeting on Wednesday, March 26th, at 5:30 PM at Therm-a-Trol, 120 Division Ave, Blue Point. Enjoy a program on improving your online visibility while networking and enjoying refreshments. Bayport-Blue Point Chamber of Commerce

• The Using Our Voices Mental Health Run is coming to Patchogue-Medford High School on April 6, 2025! 🏃‍♀️💙 This student-led event unites multiple school districts to promote mental health awareness and provide vital resources for students across Long Island. Last year, they raised $20,000 and had 700+ students participate for free—all proceeds go to mental health organizations. Be part of this inspiring movement and make a difference! Register or learn more here.

• 🎸 "Becoming Led Zeppelin" is playing at Plaza Mac from March 14-20, 2025! This PG-13 documentary (2 hrs 2 mins) takes you deep into the origins and rise of Led Zeppelin with exclusive interviews, performances, and never-before-seen footage. Don't miss this must-watch for rock fans! 🎶 More info & tickets here.

Local Sports

🥍 Bayport-Blue Point (N.Y.) has earned the No. 13 spot in the USA Lacrosse National Top 25 public high school girls' preseason rankings. The list, compiled by USA Lacrosse writers and coaches, highlights the best teams built through strong local development and coaching. Bayport-Blue Point stands among New York’s top programs heading into the 2025 season. [USA Lacrosse Magazine]

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