Teen Case Update, Scam Warning & a $10M Win

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Good Morning,

We are buzzing with news and events today. A ninth arrest has been made in the case of a missing local teen, and authorities continue their investigation.

There’s plenty happening around town, from the upcoming public hearing on Community Development Block Grant funding to local events like the Bayport-Blue Point PTA Reflections winners' announcement, the Sing Off Series finale, and the Bellport Chamber of Commerce Installation Dinner.

Don’t forget to check out our sponsor today 1440. Click their link and see if it’s a fit for your day.

-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

Local Pulse

🚔 A ninth person has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of a Patchogue teen, according to sources. Authorities continue to investigate the case, which has led to multiple arrests so far. News 12 Long Island

⚠️ SCAM ALERT: The Village of Patchogue warns Planning and Zoning Board applicants about a scam requesting fee payments via wire transfer. Officials emphasize that the village never asks for payments this way. If you receive such a request, report it to Village Hall immediately and provide a copy for authorities. Patchogue Village

🔥 The Suffolk County Arson Squad is investigating a fire that broke out at a home in East Patchogue. Police say the blaze started early Monday morning on Swezey Street, but no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Patch

🎭 Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts has promoted longtime staffer Matt McKone to director of operations. McKone, who joined the theatre in 2015 and previously served as production manager, will oversee operational strategy and enhance audience experiences. Theatre officials praised his expertise and dedication as key to leading the venue into its next chapter. Greater Long Island

📱 The Patchogue-Medford School District has deleted its X (formerly Twitter) account after it was flooded with hateful comments. Officials said the decision was made to protect students and staff from online harassment. Greater Long Island

🚴 A bicyclist has died after being struck by a car in Miller Place, according to police. The crash occurred on Route 25A, and authorities are investigating the incident. Patch

💰 A Blue Point man struck it big, winning a $10 million jackpot from a New York Lottery scratch-off ticket. The lucky winner purchased the ticket at a local convenience store, making his life-changing win official. Greater Long Island

Local Pulse

Patchogue Residents Invited to Public Hearing on Community Development Block Grant Funding

The Village of Patchogue is set to receive approximately $150,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds in October 2025. A public hearing will be held on Thursday, February 6, at 6:00 p.m. at Patchogue Village Hall, 14 Baker Street to discuss potential projects.

As outlined in the official announcement, these funds must primarily benefit low- to moderate-income individuals, address slum and blight conditions, or meet urgent community needs. Eligible projects include eliminating physical barriers for people with disabilities, public facility improvements, street reconstruction, and limited public services (up to 15% of funds).

Past projects funded by the CDBG program have included sidewalk replacements on East Main Street, pedestrian safety enhancements at Rider Avenue and Main Street, and an ADA ramp replacement at Village Hall.

Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input on how the funding should be used to improve the community. The hearing will be led by Donald R. Wachsmuth, Chairperson, along with other committee members.

For more information, visit Patchogue Village’s website.

Community Highlights

• The Bayport-Blue Point PTA and PTSA have announced the PTA Reflections Local and Suffolk winners for the 2024-2025 school year, celebrating student creativity in response to the theme “Accepting Imperfection.” Several high school students have advanced to the NYS level in categories like photography, literature, and visual arts. BBP Schools

• Joel Meyers of Medford, New York has been recognized as one of Amedisys's Home Health Social Worker/Therapists of the Year. This award honors his dedication to providing exceptional care and support to patients in the community.

• Sing Off Series Finale takes place on Thursday, February 6 at 7:00 PM at 89 North Music Venue. Experience an exciting night of music and competition starting at just $23.18. Don't miss this showcase of

• Krush The Band NY and Mean Machine will perform live at 89 North Music Venue in Patchogue, NY, on February 7, 2025. Don't miss this concert! More Information

• Join the 2025 Installation Dinner of the Bellport Chamber of Commerce on February 12th from 6:30 to 9:30 PM at the Bellport Country Club! This is a fantastic opportunity to network with fellow business professionals, enjoy live music by the Sitting Ducks, and take part in our exciting raffle. Tickets are $50 per person, and you must sign up in advance. Don’t forget to bring your business cards and promotional materials to showcase your events and specials. RSVP now! 🎉

• Buffalo Wild Wings GO is celebrating the grand opening of its second Long Island location in Patchogue with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday. Patch

Community Highlights

Gateway’s ‘The Addams Family’ Musical a Smash Hit in Bellport

The Gateway Playhouse’s production of The Addams Family has been delighting audiences, earning praise for its humor, music, and stunning performances. Running through February 16, the show has been hailed as a must-see for theater lovers.

As reported by Patch, the production brings the iconic, spooky family to life with a mix of comedy and heartfelt moments. The show’s strong performances, intricate set designs, and high-energy musical numbers have made it a standout success in Bellport’s local theater scene.

The Gateway, known for its Broadway-quality productions, continues to draw audiences from across Long Island. Community members have praised the cast and crew for their dedication to bringing this beloved story to the stage.

Tickets for The Addams Family are still available, offering theatergoers a chance to experience the fun before the show closes. To read the full story, visit Patch.

Oyster Restoration Project Aims to Revitalize Patchogue’s Waters

At the latest Village of Patchogue Board of Trustees Meeting, local students, environmental experts, and community leaders gathered to discuss an exciting initiative: an oyster restoration project aimed at improving the health of the Great South Bay. The project, led by the Seatuck Environmental Association, will bring thousands of oysters back to the bay while engaging local students in hands-on environmental learning.

Oysters play a vital role in maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem. Each adult oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day, helping to remove pollutants and improve water clarity. Additionally, oyster reefs act as natural barriers against storm surges and create essential habitats for marine life. However, overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction led to the decline of the once-thriving oyster population in the bay.

The oyster restoration project will be a partnership between Seatuck, the Patchogue-Medford and Bayport-Blue Point school districts, and local government agencies. Students will participate in a year-long program where they will grow and monitor oysters, gaining hands-on experience in marine science.

Dubbed the Introducing Students to Long Island Estuaries (ISLE) program, this initiative will provide students with a deeper understanding of the ecological importance of oysters. The program will include field trips, classroom lessons, and teacher training workshops to ensure a well-rounded educational experience.

How the Project Works

The oysters will be grown in protective cages at Shorefront Park, where students will monitor their growth using scientific measurement techniques. By the end of the program, an estimated 10,000 oysters will be ready to be relocated to designated oyster sanctuary sites in the bay.

Two primary methods will be used to encourage oyster growth:

1. Oyster Reefs – Oysters will be placed on a base of cured shells to encourage new oyster larvae to attach and grow into clusters, creating a sustainable reef.

2. Habitat Papers – A new experimental approach that involves attaching oyster shells to shoreline structures to test their survival in tidal areas.

The oyster industry was once a booming part of Patchogue’s economy, with many roads—including South Ocean Avenue—originally paved with oyster shells. The project not only restores a key species but also revives a historic connection between Patchogue and its waterways.

While these oysters are not for consumption, their presence will contribute to a cleaner, healthier bay. With the support of the Village of Patchogue, environmental groups, and educators, this initiative will foster a new generation of environmental stewards dedicated to protecting our local waters.

Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project and ways you can get involved in keeping Patchogue’s waters clean!

House of the Week

Charming Colonial Home in Patchogue Village Now Available

Renovated vintage-style Colonial located at 178 N Ocean Ave in the heart of Patchogue Village is now on the market for $669,000. t in 1930, this 1,469-square-foot residence offers four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms.

home features a spacious front porch, modern kitchen and updated bathrooms. Recent upgrades include new heating and cooling systems. Its prime location provides easy access to downtown Patchogue, the train station, and major highways.

Local Sports

Nice to see a local athlete making waves! Bayport-Blue Point alum Leeann Redlo was named CAA Women’s Field Athlete of the Week after a standout performance in the pentathlon at the Patriot Games. She placed second with 3,387 points and delivered a nationally ranked high jump of 1.76m (5’ 3.37”), which is the 50th best in the country and second highest in the CAA. She also ran an 8.97 in the 60m hurdles.

Here’s a recap of February 3rd’s action!

Girls Basketball
West Islip 47, Bellport 29
Bayport-Blue Point 60, Elwood/John Glenn 44

Boys Basketball
Bellport 67, West Islip 47

Big win for Bayport-Blue Point girls and Bellport boys last night! Keep up the great work! 🏀🔥

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