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South Quarter ’80s retro store in Sayville closing, Island Strong on pause

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South Quarter, the Sayville shop that brought 1980s MTV–era flair and swagger to downtown, is closing after nearly five years in business, its owners announced Wednesday.

The store’s parent brand, Long Island Strong, which has become a local cultural icon, is also entering a pause, according to ownership.

“With pride, we are announcing the CLOSING of South Quarter and the current state of Long Island Strong,” the owners wrote in a Facebook post. “Normally these posts start ‘with a heavy heart’ but we’re filled with pride and joy with what we have accomplished over the last 10 years.”

South Quarter first opened in April 2021, just as the region was emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. The store specialized in nostalgic clothing designs celebrating Long Island culture and quickly became a local favorite.

Its launch was highlighted in Greater Long Island at the time, which noted the shop’s unique 1980s-inspired aesthetic and dedication to supporting the community. Stepping in South Quarter was like falling inside a 20-inch color television tuned to MTV in 1985.

The owners cited changes in their personal lives as a reason for the decision to close.

“In short, our lives are much different now than they were 10, 5, or even 3 years ago. What were once kids, toddlers and babies are now in college, graduating soon and growing too fast,” they wrote. “What were once ideas and dreams are now functioning businesses and flourishing careers.

“Evolution should be part of every individual’s success story and while it is hard to say goodbye to something so incredibly special to so many people, it’s time for us as owners to move on to our next phase in life.”

A unique blend of owners

Brian Harmon photo

South Quarter and Long Island Strong are products of a longtime friendship and entrepreneurial energy among a group of local men with diverse careers and a shared love of Long Island.

The shop and the brand were founded by Terrance Saporito, an IT professional; Brian Jones, a commercial roofer; Chris “The Long Island Killer” Wade, an MMA fighter; and Al Carrabis, a successful car wash owner and long‑time friend of Saporito’s.

When they opened South Quarter, the name itself — “South” for its South Shore location and “Quarter” for the four partners — reflected their collaborative vision of creating a vibrant community experience rooted in nostalgia and local pride.

Over the years, South Quarter and Long Island Strong became known not just for their clothing but for their charitable work.

“From creating iconic designs that filled the Long Island community with a sense of love for their home to donating tens of thousands of dollars to local charities, organizations, and individuals in need, we have created memorable experiences and relationships that will last a lifetime,” the post said.

Liquidation sale

Brian Harmon photo

The store is currently liquidating its inventory, offering deep discounts of 30-70%, in-store and online. The store will be open only Thursday to Sunday.

While South Quarter will close, Long Island Strong will remain active in a limited capacity, supporting charities, fundraisers, and licensing projects. “If you choose, keep following. You never know what we might do next…” the statement concluded.

Brian Harmon photo

Top: GLI file photo by Brian Harmon

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