Nearby: Red Tide Arrives Early

Long Island was busy this week; here are a few stories you may have missed.

Though no longer an uncommon occurrence each summer, a streak of red tide hit local waters as early as last week, a premature showing from the algal bloom that officials say is likely responsible for a fish kill in an Aquebogue creek.

A spokesman with the Department of Environmental Conservation stated on Thursday that on Aug. 2, dead killifish, snappers, and black sea bass — all with a coating of "orange slime" — were reported at Cases Creek in Aquebogue.

The report, which is "almost certainly" red tide according to the DEC, came earlier in the summer than typical occurrences — and bodes for a summer where locals will likely see the dark algae in higher quantities across the East End.

A group of almost 250 Sikhs and non-Sikhs gathered together to pray at the in Mineola Thursday night, coming together in an interfaith event and vigil for the recent .

has been voted Downstate New York's "Best tasting water," and now has a chance at being named New York State's best.

The regional contest was held in at the Museum of Natural History in Manhattan Thursday. Four regional winners were there to compete in the Downstate championship.

A panel of judges voted Plainview the winner, beating out the water of New York City, Westchester and the Suffolk Water Authority.

World Champion Powerboat Racer of Sands Point shattered his own record for navigating around Long Island on Wednesday in an event designed to raise funds for cancer research.

Hayim, the owner of of Long Island, was accompanied by throttle-man John Tomlinson in the feat accomplished in two hours, 11 minutes.

Out of all the restaurants on Main Street, no one would guess that some of the most talented chefs and bakers are using one kitchen to cook up their personal specialities.

, A Taste of Long Island allows local small food business owners to rent their commercial kitchen and sell their goods at their specialty food market that offers everything from wedding cakes to pasta sauces.