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August 2024 issue of Northforker

There’s no better time to make lasting memories than during summer.

Looking back at my summers growing up, I remember exciting family vacations that took us to new places, but I also recall summers at our Wading River weekend house, spent splashing around in the water while my dad commanded the grill as though it was his ship and he was a seasoned sea captain on his thousandth voyage. 

As an adult, I see why we spent so much time there—planning a vacation is hard! But living on the North Fork, I’ve found that all the hallmarks of a good vacation are right here in our community. This month’s issue is a celebration of summer, and all that comes with it, from annual traditions to exciting excursions.

Most North Fork families have been to one of the many chicken barbecues in the area. The largest, of course, is that of the Cutchogue Fire Department, held every August. Fascinated by this mouth-watering tradition, I spoke with members of the fire department and its ladies’ auxiliary and learned the history behind the annual fundraiser. What I found was a group of hard-working, dedicated and lovely folks who pour their hearts into one of the hottest (literally) events of the season. The Cutchogue barbecue goes back to the 1950s, and I was lucky enough to speak with a few volunteers who were there from the very beginning.

If August feels too hot to handle, though, there’s always time for a dip in the water. Sal Vaglica did a deep dive on Scott’s Pointe, a Calverton water and adventure park in the making for about 30 years. I’m embarrassed to admit I’d never heard of an indoor surf wall, but now I can’t wait to try it—even if I know it’ll just result in an instant wipeout.

One of my favorite summer snacks is a fresh tomato sandwich, a simple but tasty (and reasonably healthy) treat. Hannah Selinger spoke with three heirloom tomato farmers around the North Fork to learn all about the local crop.

Dennis Schrader and Bill Smith have created something truly special in the Landcraft Garden Foundation, a sprawling botanical garden that is open to the public on weekends. Victoria Caruso does an amazing job telling the story of this beautiful hidden Mattituck gem. Seriously, read that story and buy tickets to the garden—you’ve never seen anything like it.

One of my favorite places to go—not just on the North Fork but anywhere—is Little Creek Oysters in Greenport. With a friendly and warm staff, terrific oysters (I like them grilled with Little Creek’s proprietary compound butters) and good vibes, it’s no surprise that Little Creek has become one of Greenport’s most popular destinations. Little Creek also contributes immensely to our local and vital aquaculture industry, making them a deeply important organization for the region. Read Amy Brill’s excellent story on their 10th anniversary.

Elsewhere in this issue, I spoke with the Perlman Music Program about their unique and prestigious Shelter Island summer program, which gives young musical prodigies from around the world the place and space to work on their craft. Ana Borruto quizzed Layla Sailing Captain Liz Gillooly on her favorite things on the North Fork.

From all of us at Northforker, we hope you’ve enjoyed taking this long, fun summer journey with us and made some fantastic memories of your own.

Lee Meyer
Managing Editor  
Northforker

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