This week on the Long Island Tea Podcast, Sharon and Stacy recap the week and dive into the State of the Region — covering historic milestones tied to America’s 250th anniversary, major community developments, Broadway buzz, local theater highlights, winter fun across the Island, and plenty of feel-good Long Island stories. They also sip, mix, and create their own perfect red wine blend thanks to our friends at RGNY, proving that great Long Island moments can be enjoyed both out and right at home.

#ShowUsYourLongIslander

This week’s spotlight is on Bayles Boat Shop, a historic Long Island landmark taking part in the United States Semiquincentennial.

As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, Long Island is marking the moment with the Long Island 250th Passport Book, encouraging residents and visitors to explore historic sites and collect commemorative stamps. Bayles Boat Shop was honored as one of the first stops, with John Lanicek presenting the inaugural stamp. We also spoke with Len Carolen, who shared what this milestone means for the shop.

Bayles is also building a never-before-used armed whale boat inspired by the Culper Spy Ring, debuting in Port Jefferson Village on May 2nd, highlighting its ongoing role in preserving Long Island history.

Show us YOUR Long Islander by sending a DM or emailing spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com.

#LongIslandLife

Southampton Expands Beach Access

-Southampton plans to spend $25.8 million to buy and demolish an oceanfront mansion, creating a new public beach and protecting a rare maritime dune habitat.

Long Island Shows Up for Broadway

Broadway attendance from Long Island is up nearly 11%, with more than 586,000 residents heading into the city this past season.

Broadway Close to Home

John W. Engeman Theater (Northport): Ring of Fire (Now–March 1)

CM Performing Arts Center (Oakdale): Legally Blonde (Now–February 1)

The Gateway (Bellport): The Rat Pack Is Back (Jan 23–Feb 15)

Did You Know?

Tony Award winner Idina Menzel is from Syosset, Long Island.

Theater with Impact

CM Performing Arts Center is launching SPARKLE, a new program using theater to help young children with autism build communication skills.

Farmingdale Community Theater

Farmingdale Village plans a $5 million, 8,000-square-foot community theater to energize downtown.

Sopranos actor Joseph Gannascoli hosted a book signing in Wading River.

A Patchogue woman claimed a $1 million New York Lottery prize.

Igloo experiences are back at spots across the Island, from North Shore vineyards to Montauk favorites.

Sip & Create

Thanks to RGNY, the Scielo Blending Kit lets you create your own red wine blend at home.

Pick up your very own kit here: https://shop.rgnywine.com/products/scielo-ny-red-wine-blending-kit

#thisweekendonlongisland

Sponsored by East End Getaway

Friday, January 23

America 250 Red, White & Blue Ball – Sea Star Ballroom

The Warped Tour Band – The Suffolk

Saturday, January 24

Light the Night Winter Trail Walk – Quogue Wildlife Refuge

Fireside Session with Randi Fishenfeld – Bay Street Theater

Sunday, January 25

Westhampton Winter Market (Saturdays through April 25)

North Fork Polar Bear Plunge – Veterans Beach, Mattituck

For more, visit eastendgetaway.com.

#CelebriTEA

Long Island had a strong Golden Globes showing with Billy Crudup and Judd Apatow, plus Madison Beer is heading to MSG this summer after a recent album signing in West Babylon.

#ConnectWithUs

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Love the show? Leave us a review and tell us How YOU Doin’ at 877-386-6654 x400.

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This week on the Long Island Tea Podcast, Sharon and Stacy kick off the New Year by recapping the week and highlighting what’s happening across Long Island — including your guide to wellness to start the year off right. From inspiring local stories and major community milestones to exciting new developments, summer previews, and plenty of hot tea, it’s an episode packed with everything Long Islanders love.

#ShowUsYourLongIslander

This week’s spotlight is on Long Island native Timothy Fabrizio, a passionate collector and storyteller whose search for a dream car uncovered an unforgettable piece of hip-hop history.

What began as an attempt to buy his father a rare 1990s Rolls-Royce Corniche convertible turned into something much bigger when Timothy discovered the car had once been driven by Tupac Shakur during the height of Death Row Records. His research traced the vehicle back to a 1996 Death Row delivery convoy, firmly linking Long Island to one of the most iconic eras in music history.

By connecting automotive culture, hip-hop, and personal storytelling, Timothy transformed a luxury classic into a living piece of pop culture artifact, bridging coasts, generations, and genres.

Show us YOUR Long Islander by sending a DM or emailing spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com

#LongIslandLife

Suffolk County’s grocery landscape continues to evolve in 2026 with new openings including Sprouts Farmers Market in Centereach, Trader Joe’s in Miller Place, and additional Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace locations. These stores enhance everyday convenience for residents while offering visitors high-quality, locally inspired food options.

Long Island Students Shine Nationally

Thirty-three Long Island high school seniors were named semifinalists in the 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search, more than any other region in the country, highlighting Long Island’s continued leadership in STEM education and innovation.

Riverhead Town Square Update

Construction of Riverhead’s long-awaited Town Square is expected to begin in 2026. A hotel is scheduled to break ground in May, with additional features such as a playground and amphitheater rolling out later in the year. Hotel completion is anticipated in summer 2027.

Did You Know?

Ellio’s Frozen Pizza was founded on Long Island by Ellias Betzios, George Liolis, and Manny Tzelios.

#HotTEAs

New Blog: Your Guide to Relaxation and Wellness on Long Island

Long Island is home to a wide range of spas and wellness centers ideal for resetting and recharging during the winter months. Featured destinations include AIREM Modern Beauty Rituals in Bridgehampton, The Baker House 1650 Spa in East Hampton, Gurney’s Montauk Resort and Seawater Spa, Montauk Manor’s Space MTK Spa, Canoe Place Inn in Hampton Bays, and East Wind Spa in Wading River.

Whether you are a local or visiting for a weekend getaway, these wellness destinations offer the perfect way to start the year feeling refreshed. Read more at discoverlongisland.com/blog, and let us know where we can find you relaxing.

#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland

Sponsored by East End Getaway — your go-to resource for East End events.

Friday, January 16

Hamptons Jazz Fest Masonic Music Series: Rhythms of the Americas

Masters of the Telecaster at The Suffolk

Saturday, January 17

Winter Garden Walk at Bridge Gardens

Fireside Session with Brian Mitchell at Bay Street Theater

Westhampton Winter Market (Saturdays through April 25)

For more events and things to do, visit eastendgetaway.com.

#CelebriTEA

Jimmy Fallon was spotted shopping at Roosevelt Field Mall.

#ConnectWithUs

Instagram: @longislandteapodcast

YouTube: @DiscoverLongIslandNY

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X (Twitter): @liteapodcast

Facebook: Long Island Tea Podcast

Email: spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com

Shop: shop.discoverlongisland.com

Love the show? Leave us a review and tell us How YOU Doin’ by calling 877-386-6654 x400.

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This week on the Long Island Tea Podcast, Sharon and Stacy pack up the mics and head to the Northport Hotel, where the twinkling lights, charming Main Street views, and cozy North Shore vibes feel like stepping straight into a Hallmark holiday movie. From organization updates to festive happenings across Long Island, it’s a warm, merry episode full of community, cheer, and plenty of hot tea.

#TasteOfLongIsland

We’re recording remotely at The Northport Hotel, a 26-room luxury boutique stay in the heart of downtown Northport, offering an intimate and elevated escape just steps from the harbor, shopping, and the John W. Engeman Theater.

Joining us on the show are Kevin O’Neill, owner of The Northport Hotel, and Michael Ross, Executive Chef, sharing what makes the property special and what’s ahead in the New Year.

Learn more or plan your stay: thenorthporthotel.com

#LongIslandLife

Celebrating a Long Island Legend: Billy Joel Symposium Announced

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame will host its first-ever Billy Joel Symposium June 6–7 at Stony Brook University, celebrating Billy Joel’s lasting impact and deep Long Island roots. 🎹

Billy Joel Reposts Discover Long Island

Billy Joel shared a Discover Long Island clip of Mike DelGuidice performing “Piano Man” at the Tourism Awards Gala to his Instagram Stories — a true full-circle Long Island moment.

Long Island Honors Fallen Veterans

More than 7,500 fallen service members were honored during a wreath-laying ceremony at Long Island National Cemetery in Farmingdale, reflecting the region’s deep respect for those who served. 🇺🇸

No More “Peek-a-Boo” Tickets on the LIRR

Starting in 2026, LIRR and Metro-North mobile tickets will auto-activate at purchase, with a $2 surcharge for riders who wait until they spot the conductor.

Escape to the Caribbean from MacArthur Airport

Direct flights from Long Island MacArthur Airport make it easier than ever to escape to sunny destinations like Cancun, Puerto Rico, Fort Myers, and Tampa.

#ThisWeekendOnLongIsland

Sponsored by East End Getaway — your go-to resource for East End events.

Friday, December 26

• Winter Fun-cation: Holiday Edition at the Long Island Aquarium offers kids a full day of fun, learning, and winter break activities.

Saturday, December 27

• Westhampton Holiday & Indoor Farmers Market wraps up the year with handmade goods, food, and local finds.

Plan your weekend at eastendgetaway.com.

#CelebriTEA

Napoleon Dynamite Turns 20 at Patchogue Theatre

Celebrate the cult-classic comedy’s 20th anniversary on April 25 with a special screening and live appearance by stars Jon Heder, Jon Gries, and Efren Ramirez.

#HotTEAs

Love the show? Leave us a review and tell us How YOU Doin’ by calling 877-386-6654 x400 for a chance to score $5 off merch.

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