Shop Local, Big News & A Bit of History

Issue #266

Author

Brian Grant
November 07, 2025

Good Morning,

Small Business Saturday fun is coming quick and grant for a local nonprofit, there's a lot happening around town. We’re also looking back at a proud Bayport moment, checking out what’s playing at the Plaza, and getting ready to welcome a rock legend to Patchogue Theatre. Enjoy the weekend.

-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

Local Pulse

🛍️ Small Business Saturday returns to Patchogue on November 29, with the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce leading the charge through its annual Shopping Bag Giveaway. Packed with offers, giveaways, and treats from local businesses, the event encourages the community to shop small and support local gems this holiday season. Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce

💰 SEPA Mujer has received a $175,000 state grant to renovate its Patchogue headquarters, boosting its ability to serve over 3,500 Latina women across Long Island. The funding, announced by NYS Assembly deputy speaker Phil Ramos, will support upgrades like energy-efficient windows, HVAC improvements, and a new client counseling office. Suffolk County News

🍸 A Halloween post from The Cliffton Bar in Patchogue sparked local outrage before being revealed as another dose of the bar’s signature satire. The viral message, which condemned “disrespectful” crowds and announced a sudden 30+ age policy, was part of the bar’s ongoing troll-style marketing. South Shore Press

🎸 Billy F Gibbons, the legendary ZZ Top frontman, is hitting the road in 2026 with the BFG Band, including a Valentine’s Day stop at the Patchogue Theatre. The tour features Texas greats Chris “Whipper” Layton and Mike “The Drifter” Flanigin for a 28-date run across North America. BRR

Day in History

Bayport’s New School Shines Bright Despite Stormy Dedication Night

On the rainy evening of November 3, 1927, Bayport’s new high school was officially dedicated, drawing a large audience to its spacious auditorium despite the inclement weather. The event marked a significant milestone for the community, replacing the previous school destroyed by fire in 1925.

photo from The Bayport-Blue Point Heritage Association

The evening featured a rich program of music and speeches, opening with an overture performed by the Central Islip State Hospital Orchestra. Mrs. George N. West, chair of the building committee, introduced the event, followed by a dedicatory address from W. Kintzing Post and an invocation by Rev. A. L. Hubbard.

Dr. Samuel W. Grafflin of the West Side YMCA in New York delivered the keynote, emphasizing personal initiative as key to educational success. Tenor Charles Kattau, accompanied by Miss Edna Jackson, added a musical touch with two solos.

Architect Wilson Potter formally presented the building, which was accepted by James H. Snedecor, president of the Board of Education. American flags were presented by local chapters of the Eastern Star, Jr. Order of United American Mechanics, and Daughters of Liberty, symbolizing patriotism and civic pride.

Built at a cost of $200,102, the new two-story brick school will accommodate all the grades and-four years of high school. It has a capacity of 400 pupils and the auditorium will seat 7,00. Its dedication represented both a fresh start and a shared investment in Bayport’s educational future.

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Community Highlights

  • The Plaza Cinema & Media Arts Center is showing It Was Just an Accident, a gripping new drama by Jafar Panahi, from Nov. 7–13, with a film discussion led by Professor Peter Mascuch on Sunday, Nov. 9 after the 7:00PM screening. Plaza Cinema & Media Arts Center

  • The Bay Area Chorus of BAFFA will perform a free concert, Gifts of Music, featuring works by Bach, Copland, and holiday favorites on Sunday, November 23 at 4 PM at the United Methodist Church of Patchogue. [Bay Area Friends of the Fine Arts]

  • Arooga’s Sports Tavern is honoring Veterans Day with a free lunch for all veterans on Tuesday, November 11, from 12 PM to 3 PM at their Patchogue location.

  • The Patchogue River Christmas Boat Parade returns for its 30th year on November 23 at 5 PM, lighting up the waterfront with a “Rock Star Christmas” theme and dazzling, decked-out boats. [Patchogue River Christmas Boat Parade]

  • Earth Warriors Yoga & Wellness is hosting a playful Puppy Yoga class on November 9 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM featuring adoptable puppies, mimosas, and a pop-up dog boutique. A portion of proceeds supports a local shelter. [Earth Warriors Yoga & Wellness]

  • The Better Man Distilling Co. is hosting its 5th Annual Holiday Market with local vendors, cocktails, and live music on Nov. 29–30. Enjoy doggy photo ops and performances by Andrew Weiss & Friends and the Brian Mancuso Band. The Better Man Distilling Co.

  • The Bayport-Blue Point Heritage Association invites all to its General Membership meetings at the BBP Library, featuring raffles and community updates. On Sunday, November 16, Marsha Collock will present Films of the American Great Depression: 1929–1939, exploring how classic cinema provided both reflection and escape during tough times. BBPHA

  • Robert Bruey and the Shadow Cats are playing live at People's Pub in Bayport on Friday, November 7th at 8:30 PM. Don’t miss this night of music on Bayport Ave, Bayport, NY.

  • The Lighthouse Mission is collecting Thanksgiving food donations to support local families in need. Drop off items at 1543 Montauk Hwy, Bellport by Saturday, November 15, Monday–Friday (9AM–4PM) or Saturday (10AM–2PM).

  • NYS Senator Dean Murray has opened his Thanksgiving Day Student Showcase, inviting students to submit essays, poems, or artwork about what they’re thankful for by November 21. [NYS Senate]

  • The Town of Brookhaven’s Youth Bureau and INTERFACE Program are hosting a Thanksgiving Food Drive from October 14 to November 13, collecting non-perishable food items and $10 grocery gift cards to help families in need enjoy the holiday season. [Town of Brookhaven]

  • 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.

Community Highlights

Local Sports

🎾 Bayport-Blue Point (Section XI) returns as the #1 seed in Division 2 at the NYSPHSAA Girls Tennis Team Championships, set for today at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The team kicks off the semifinals bright and early at 7:30 AM against #4 seed Honeoye Falls-Lima. [NYSPHSAA]

🏈 Patchogue-Medford celebrated a spirited homecoming with a 35-28 football victory over Bay Shore and a parade full of themed floats, skits, and performances. The ACES life skills program students, who funded parade trailers through their Raider Bean business, were honored as grand marshals for their lasting impact. [Patch]

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