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Fire Island Water Taxi cut through the Great South Bay as the afternoon sun started to turn everything golden. Jeff and I had decided to make a proper night of it: Low Tea at the Blue Whale, the Barn on Fire presentation at Whyte Hall, dinner at Pines Bistro, and dancing at the Pavilion.

Date Night Fire Island: Dinner, a Show, and Dancing Under the Stars

Posted on July 8, 2026

Time feels a little more precious during the summer compared to the other times of the year, making the question of how to spend it all the more consequential. Like many, I devote a great deal of my time to reading. Whether lazing in a hammock or lounging on a beach chair, this summer's stack has something for everyone: a giant glowing jellyfish, an art heist in Paris, a missed romantic connection at 30,000 feet, family secrets on Block Island, murder, mystery, and enough emotional drama to keep you slathered in sunscreen and suspense all summer long.

Books & Authors

SUMMER READING: What’s in My Beach Bag?

Posted on July 4, 2026

Before Fire Island, on one hazy 1960s summer, at a Girl Scout Camp on Long Island, a young Meryl Meisler hears whispers of a mystical realm just across the bay. On this island, they say, “fairies ran about naked and lived in little houses with charming names like Shirley’s Temple.” This opening vignette — shared by a now-renowned, longtime photographer of queer New York nightlife — sets the tone for John Dempsey’s ambitious account of Fire Island’s art history.

Books & Authors

John Dempsey’s Fire Island Art: 100 Years

Posted on June 29, 2026

If America were handing out scores for the stories it chooses to remember, LGBTQ+ ballroom culture would earn a verdict without hesitation: tens across the board.

Tens Across the Board: Why Ballroom Culture Belongs at the Center of LGBTQ+ History

Posted on June 25, 2026

“I'm growing spiritually, and now in my 81st year, I've become more understanding of myself and am really enjoying the journey of spirituality. I'm also in AA, and I share my so-called system of growth with others, and I'm having a great time.” — Lynne Milnes

Meet the Cover Artist: Lynne Milnes

Posted on June 19, 2026

“It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A.,” goes the all-too-familiar lyrics of the Village People song that gets everyone moving on the dance floor, remains a crowd favorite during the seventh-inning stretch at Yankee Stadium, and easily boosts people’s spirits. But the lyrics also ring true. It is fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A., especially if you’re a college student in New York City (NYC) during the ‘80s, which is the case for Evan, the protagonist in Sloane by Kevin Banks.

Books & Authors

The Sloane House: Where ’80s NYC Art Students Found Community

Posted on June 15, 2026

Think you know baseball? Sure, you’re familiar with how the game is played today, with its pitch clock, 400-foot home runs, and the designated hitter—but what about its roots? Now, fans of America’s pastime can see how the game was played in its early days when the Brooklyn Atlantics and New York Mutuals vintage baseball teams face each other in Brightwaters on Saturday, June 20.

sports

Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library to Host 2nd Annual Baseball Day on June 20

Posted on June 11, 2026

Situated across from the Cherry Grove dock, Top of the Bay Bistro on Fire Island offers stunning views of the Great South Bay — along with an exceptional American Nouveau menu, fabulous cocktails, and live entertainment weekly. This summer, Executive Chef Xavier Alcequiez has taken full rein of the establishment, with former proprietor Ron King remaining behind the scenes and discreetly supporting Alcequiez and the team in any way he can.

Dining

Xavier Alcequiez: Taking the Reins at Top of the Bay Birstro in Cherry Grove

Posted on June 7, 2026

Sunday, June 13 (Noon) Patchogue Pride Dust off those flags, grab your glitter, and put on your best grin as the Patchogue Pride Parade makes its way down Main Street, Patchogue. Starting at noon, the parade will proceed along Route 112 west toward Blue Point. This glitter-filled extravaganza celebrates our fabulous diversity; who wouldn’t want to join in? For details, visit patchoguepride.com.

Happy June: Pride Parades and More Along the South Shore

Posted on June 1, 2026

Top Toque 2025

Dining

News 12’s Erin Colton Returns to the Ocean Beach Chamber of Commerce 3rd Annual Top Toque Cooking Contest

Posted on May 31, 2026

Beauty queens, the parents of transgender children, a former Special Forces police officer, and the Deputy Mayor/Alderman of Amsterdam are among the accomplished transgender individuals telling their stories. His documentary, which has earned recognition at the World Film Festival in Cannes, is having its world premiere at The Suffolk Music and Arts Festival, presented by the Love Wins International Film Festival and Babylon Pride, in collaboration with House of Yes in Sayville, on June 6.

LGBTQ+ Love Wins International Film Festival debuts with Heartfelt Cinema at Sayville Movie Theater

Posted on May 29, 2026

Sunday, May 31 (10 a.m.-1 p.m.) The Sagtikos Manor Historical Society will host The Peony Path Tour at Sagtikos Manor, 677 West Montauk Highway, Bay Shore. Attendees will take a private tour of the Manor’s walled garden and learn the history and horticulture of the Peony, the Sagtikos Peony Project, and other restoration efforts. Cap the day off with a stop at the magnificent peacock fountain and waterlily pool. Light refreshments will be provided. Admission: $20. Tours begin at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For details and reservations, visit sagtikosmanor.org

Dining

Say So Long to the Month of May, and Hello to June! Things To Do this Weekend and the Week Ahead

Posted on May 28, 2026

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