Archive for the 'People and Places' Category
Corn Mazes and Pumpkins on The North Fork
September 24th, 2007 category: People and Places3 Comments »
Now that the North Fork of Long Island has played host to our out of town summer visitors and fall is making it’s predictable appearance, the second
wave of visitors fast approaches. Fall in the the North Fork offers the beauty of changing colors, beaches less traveled, and…CORN MAZES.
My first foray into a corn maze took place with my niece and nephew a few years ago. Not knowing what to expect, we entered with a bit of adrenaline. At
the risk of ruining the experience for those planning to visit, just know to expect the unexpected, and laugh harder than you thought possible. I liken it to an outdoor haunted house, with more laughs and less gore. Hokey, effective, and FUN- and a day I’ll cherish with the kids.
There are several corn mazes available for the brave, with locations both on Main Road and the North Road (Sound Avenue). We happened upon Wickhams farm in Cutchogue- when they’re fully ready, this is a veritable Halloween feast for the senses. In addition to the corn maze, they offer a haunted “barn”. Pumpkins are available, as are gourds, front door decorations, and assorted Halloween goodies.
We are going to try Harbes corn maze on North Road this year- it’s just too tempting to pass up. Larger than some that we’ve seen, the maze appears to go on forever- and we’re hoping to get the same laughs that we enjoyed a few years ago.
Plan on picking up your pumpkins (or, literally picking your pumpkin), enjoying fresh roasted corn, and an array of fresh vegetables and pies- and bring along your camera. If you find that you’re laughing as hard (or harder) than the kids, well…you’re in good company!
TO GET A LIST OF OFFERINGS/PRICES/TIMES FOR CORN MAZES AND OTHER EVENTS ON THE NORTH FORK, CLICK HERE.
For an appointment to view houses while you visit, give us a call- you’ll catch us in the maze!
Summer’s End on The Northfork Doesn’t End the Fun!
August 29th, 2007 category: People and PlacesNo Comments »
The end of summer on the North Fork is bittersweet for me every year- as those with children prepare, I find myself with recollections of my daughter anticipating a new school year, with trips to Office Max and the mall; each trip with a child that grew; and ultimately, grew up.
Having fall approach stirs more than the gently turning leaves; it often has accompanying wistfulness for the years gone by, children long gone.
It was with delight and interest that I noticed the abundance of offerings in Southold, New York for the “rest” of us. The absence of the summer crowd leaves a quiet, rural town with tourism still quite strong in the fall as corn mazes and pumpkins greet the arrivals, but I’d never quite realized how much it offers adults, as well.
The Town of Southold Fall 2007 Recreation Program and Activities arrived in the mail, with offerings for those living in Cutchogue, East Marion, Peconic, Fishers Island, Greenport, Laurel, Mattituck, Orient, New Suffolk, and Southold, New York.
For those of us that can’t quite let go of the gardening season, a Plant Talk landscaping class ($40.00 fee), held from Sept. 20 through Nov.8 on Thursdays from 7-8:30pm will provide input and discussion for next year’s landscape design, lawn care, perennials, etc. will be led by Jean Jung. Classes will be held at Southold High school, room #102.
Keeping the dream of the ultimate garden alive is appealing to me- and I’ll get home early enough to see who was booted off on “Survivor.”
While I hate to admit that I have an ill behaved puppy, perhaps this fall will change that. From Sept.12-Oct 31, Wednesdays from 6:45-8:00 p.m. may just fix this issue. Dog Obedience, with Dan Gebbia, will be available for our renegade puppies to…conform (at least, somewhat, I hope). The cost is $70.00 per dog, and will run from Sept. 12-October 31. It will be offered at the Southold Town Recreation Center. French Cooking Made Easy (I don’t believe it, but I can barely butter toast) and Fall Cooking and Baking courses are available for those that enjoy the culinary arts: Martine Abitbol will be heading up the French connection from Sept.19-Nov.7, from 6:30-9:00p.m at Southold High school, room#13; cost:$65 per person. Paula Croteau, in the wonderful yellow house at 1450 South Harbor road, will inspire her students with a series of offerings- call for details: call 765-5182.
In addition to the above, there are exercise classes, navigation classes, bus trips to NYC, mature driving classes, blood drives, dancing classes (tango anyone?), computer classes, and yes, activities for the kids, as well. Visit the site to explore the fall possibilities at:http://www.southoldtownrecreation.org., or call 631-765-5182 for more info.
Options Realty, your real estate blog site covering the North Fork of Long Island, New York: vacation properties, rentals, sales, and conversation!
A Riverhead, New York Festival Kicks Off A Saturday
August 22nd, 2007 category: Downtown Riverhead, People and Places, Riverhead Real Estate1 Comment »
When people visit our east end of Long Island, whether to consider moving here, or simply for a summer getaway, the offerings are abundant every weekend. This Saturday, we decided to visit the Riverhead Polish Fair. It occurs every year in Polish Town, Riverhead, New York, and it sounded like a fun adventure.
Parking at Riverhead High School, we made our way through the festival, noticing the green lawns of charming homes that are offered in this unique area- while small, their reminder of another period in time is very enticing. The lot sizes are small and easy to manage, and the decorative accents outside offer a warm feeling of cared for homes.
We were delighted at the abundance offered at this festival, and came to understand the large crowds that it draws each year. In addition to watching the Little Miss Polish Festival contest, with little girls adorned in the dresses of their ancestry, we ate…and ATE. The food offerings are amazingly rich, and the smell made it very difficult to pass each station without a good look.
Vendors throughout the festival offered anything from a “fake” designer bag, to those little creatures that fit, one inside the other- the name escapes me, but I love opening each one to discover the littlest wooden surprise. Scarves, sweaters and an assortment of clothing were found in abundance.
Noticing a wind as we finished up our visit, we decided to engage in another favorite activity after the festival- sailing. After getting rigged up, we headed out into the bay- the winds were amazing. In an odd weather idiosyncrasy, it was actually chilly- a welcome respite from the typical summer heat.
And thus, a typical weekend on the east end of Long Island- festivals, tag sales, great food, sailing…makes me wonder how I could live anywhere else!
Saturday morning in Southold, New York…
August 10th, 2007 category: People and PlacesNo Comments »
A sunny Saturday morning in Southold, New York is a day that I relish. While weekdays are often packed with things to do in the North Fork of Long Island, Saturday for me is special in the summer.
This Saturday, the North Fork was full of tag sales. It’s in the Yard Salers Corner section of the Suffolk Times newspaper, right after the real estate section. In the summer, there are two full columns of enticement, and this Saturday was no different.
Some people in the North Fork take these tag sales very, very seriously. It was last year when we dined at Cliff’s Elbow Room that we overheard a group of people discussing their “strategy” for the following Saturday morning. We’re talking HARDENED TAGGERS.
The thing is, the early bird absolutely catches the first worm. I know this, because just as I’m pulling up on the dot, someone is leaving with an item that I want. Every time. This gets the pulse going early- jumping out of the car and nonchalantly speeding up my walk to view the “goods”, often up a winding woodsy driveway.
I don’t know if it’s the odd camaraderie (saying hello to the same “taggers” at each sale) or the quiet mood of these sales, but it’s FUN. It’s also relaxing. This, without mentioning that the sales held by centuries old families of the North Fork (or, the artsy NYC contingent) have GREAT THINGS. These are not your ordinary sales. The occasional baby sale notwithstanding, it is COMMON to locate vintage linens in perfect condition; antique fine china in full sets, no cracks; antique dressers for thirty bucks (solid wood with the mirror intact, and little drawers just below the mirror frame)- just GREAT STUFF.
Returning home by 10 a.m., you’ve seen your “friends”, found some steals, and had a terrific Saturday morning along the way…and some eggs over easy in that $200. frying pan that you found, still in it’s box, for a buck!
The North Fork, Long Island Flavor…
August 1st, 2007 category: People and PlacesNo Comments »
One of the great things about living and working on the North Fork of Long Island is the variety.
Much is said (deservedly) about the vineyards, the farm stands, and the beaches of our towns. But there’s much more. This week, a quick profile of some favored local spots:
Everyone finds their favorite “hot spots”, and mine include such diverse places as the Making Waves Hair Salon, The Southold Historical Society, and a new found deli that happens to be right on the way to the marina that houses our sailboat, Greenport Heights Delicatessen & Cafe.
I discovered Making Waves in Cutchogue, New York when I was brand new to the area, and absolutely love this salon. From the regular customers to the personality of the staff, it’s a relaxing way to spend what would normally have me feeling impatient (I’m not a high maintenance sort). Owned by Denise and Karin, the place really belongs to Hot Dog Frank (Frank, to his friends) who is the mascot of the salon. His toys are everywhere, and Denise spoils him rotten.
The result of his ruling the roost is that he is beloved by the customers, and has a sweet, welcoming personality. Combining Frank, great haircuts, a nice clientele, and wonderful owners make for a great North Fork experience. MAKING WAVES, CUTCHOGUE, NEW YORK: 631-734-7881
MATTITUCK LAUREL HISTORICAL SOCIETY THROWS ANOTHER BIGGIE!
July 20th, 2007 category: People and Places, Real Estate NewsNo Comments »
For those of you fortunate enought to be waking up on the North Fork on Saturday, July 21st. from 9-5, the Mattituck Laurel Historical Society is hosting another fabulous show and sale. On the agenda for Saturday is a display of antique furniture, available to admire or buy. If you love antiques, THIS IS THE BIGGIE!
Their ANNUAL ANTIQUE SHOW AND SALE. Exhibitors will offer antique furniture, Americana and much more. Indoors, at the Cutchogue East Elementary School on Main road, Cutchogue. Rain or Shine. Donation $6.00. For information call (631) 298-0020.
Alzheimers And Real Estate
July 4th, 2007 category: People and Places, Real Estate News, Real Estate Philosophy, Southold Real Estate2 Comments »
One of the most difficult diseases for families to accept is Alzheimer’s Disease. It is also common enough to wreak havoc on the best of financial situations if denial is present. Having experienced it first hand with my Grandmother, I’d like to share an exceptional book that will guide you through the maze. Additionally, some pointers learned the hard way.
The book is titled, “The 36 Hour Day”, authored by Nancy L. Mace MA and Peter V. Rabins, MD. Some pointers (learned the hard way, in my own experience):If behavior becomes odd- repetitive communication, name confusion (in our case, Grandma would answer the phone, “hi, LyLauriSu”- a combination of all of our names) start paying attention. Alzheimer’s creates a “void” in the memory bank. Just imagine a space in your brain that is suddenly blank. Nothing there when called upon to remember. For an interesting view, please link to: http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_4719.asp
Purchase the book to have all aspects of the disease illustrated. The purpose of this blog is to assist you with the real estate end of this devastating disease. If you REMOTELY SUSPECT that your loved one is dealing with this affliction, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of making sure that you are in possession of a DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY . This document CANNOT be procured once the victim is unaware of the implications, so act early. What many people do not understand is that a simple power of attorney is void if the individual is deemed “incompetent” with respect to decisions being made on their behalf. A durable power of attorney permits you to assist them regardless of their mental capacity.
HERE IS WHAT OCCURRED WITH MY OUT OF STATE GRANDMOTHER:Because of the insidious gradual nature of the disease, while things seemed odd, she was able to “fool” us for a time. Unaware of her day to day, the phone calls (while occasionally alarming) were often enough normal that we delayed action. Unbeknownst to us, the predators were in full swing in her daily life. Her “lawn guy” discovered that if he brought a full bag of leaves to the door, she’d pay him. He figured out that whatever afflicted her, he could bring the same bag to her door several times a day, and she would pay him again and again. Terminix, the pest control company, was employed by her to rid her of pests. The individual employed at the company (I’ll never forget his name on all of those checks- Robert Auvil) returned several times a week, and informed her that she still had “snakes in the crawl space”. At 400-800.00 a pop, he had the checks made out to himself, several times a month. Her banker became alarmed when she appeared at the bank to withdraw a large amount of money for new siding on her house- he was aware that just a few short years earlier,Unable to stop her, it was re-sided.All the while, the alarm increased as she repeated, over and over again, that it was sweltering hot, and that Readers Digest was going to be arriving any minute with the Grand Prize. Day after day.The end result was to put her in an environment that created safety. For most families, this is the most difficult decision- after all, if her memory was leaving, pulling her out of her home would surely create further damage, wouldn’t it?
We were absolutely shocked when she not only forgot all about “home”, but embraced the new living environment. Shocked.WE DID NOT HAVE A DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY. In order to provide her with the best care, her house needed to be sold, and the proceeds put into an account for her care. Without the durable power of attorney, control over the sale price, and the proceeds, fell to the state of Virginia.While this in and of itself was not impossible to work with, what was enormously stressful for my mother was working with the time line. The government is not known for speed. Documentation, court appearances, the sale of personal items via auction (all proceeds recorded and reported) and the ultimate sale of the house went from simple to extraordinarily complicated. All the while, Grandma was safely ensconced in her new environment, but the bills were piling up.
For the families going through the difficulty of the disease, the hours spent dealing with the system in place adds enormous stress to an already heartbreaking situation. It’s not necessary to go through the legal aspects if you get a durable power of attorney early enough in the progress of the disease. For anyone in this situation, my heart goes out to you. You’ll get through it, and have some surprises with your loved one that you never expected- I don’t recall ever laughing with Grandma as hard as I did during one of my last visits to her house. She was hilarious, despite the disease, and enjoyed roaring with laughter.
IF YOU SUSPECT THAT A FAMILY MEMBER IS IN THE EARLIEST STAGES OF THIS DISEASE, GET A DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY. IF YOU FIND YOURSELF WONDERING IF THIS MIGHT EVER AFFECT YOU, PROVIDE A DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY TO A TRUSTED FAMILY MEMBER.
Speak with your attorney to assist you with the decision. Some available resource links:
http://www.oag.state.ny.us/seniors/pwrat.html
http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=dgps2bbf_45d4qfmp&hl=en_us
http://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_legal_issues.asp
Real estate is often the source of funds for future care. Don’t find yourself at the mercy of a state entity to make decisions that you would be able to resolve with integrity yourself. Having the benefit of fast action, if necessary, is paramount for the safety of your family member.****This is not to be construed as legal advice. This is a real life situation that became complicated due to ignorance of the disease, and available options. Talk with your family lawyer about preventative solutions.
Mattituck-Laurel Historical Society Lawn Sale Approaches- The BIGGIE!
June 14th, 2007 category: North Fork Neighborhoods, People and Places, Real Estate NewsNo Comments »
To those in the North Fork of Long Island, New York that LOVE a great yard sale, the queen of sales approaches, featuring antiques, collectibles, furniture, bake sale and more. On July 7, 2007, from 8am to 4pm the Mattituck-Laurel Historical Society will be providing the creme de la creme- come one, come all!
An annual event, this is a sought after lawn sale, offering collectors of unique treasures the opportunity to locate anything from vintage linens, jewelry, clothing, china, and trinkets at amazing prices.
We’ve had the pleasure of attending this event, and it has never disappointed. The cars arrive early, so be prepared for a pleasant stroll along Main Road in Mattituck, New York to reach the sale. The sale is held on the lawn of the Museum grounds on Main Road (Rte. 25) and Cardinal Drive, Mattituck.
- and the number of participating vendors make this a “can’t miss” for those interested in items that are located on the North Fork.
Donation $1.00 – Rain Date 7/8 – For additional information, please call: (631) 298-0020 or 298-5248.
Take the weekend to look at houses for sale on the North Fork- Riverhead, Jamesport, Aquebogue, Laurel, Mattituck, Cutchogue, Peconic, Southold, Greenport, East Marion, and Orient, New York. We’d love to help!
Technorati Tags: Long Island, New York, North Fork, Southold
Hello Bayview
June 7th, 2007 category: Buyers, North Fork Neighborhoods, People and Places, Sellers, Southold Real Estate5 Comments »
Hello, Bayview, located in Southold, New York-
Options Realty is the “new kid on the block”- we are brand new, with something to PROVE.
We have a combined 32 years of real estate experience, receiving top accolades from some of the nation’s largest home builders. We know how to market properties.
Sean Stark, the owner of Options Realty, has a family with deep ties to the Southold area, and specifically the Bayview area. Sean’s Great, Great Grandfather worked a farm in Bayview in the 1850’s and 1860’s, and built a house on Pine Neck road. Sean’s parents were the original owners of one of the “red” houses that was beautifully re-done recently. It’s a connection to the area that lasts from generation to generation…
What we offer is an opportunity for you to try something different.
Technology is making a huge impact on the ability of buyers to locate your home. We provide a service that not only offers a local flavor, but shares this area with potential buyers across the country. We focus on EXPOSURE. It is our belief that real estate is a numbers game, and sharing your property with local agents, as well as agents across New York, and the United States, will provide you with the opportunity to get the most for your home. The more you know, and the more we offer, the more you’ll gain.
WE ALSO WANT TO SAVE YOU MONEY.
Below, please find information regarding sold homes in the Bayview area. These homes were listed with various agencies in the North Fork, and the information is gathered from the multiple listing service of Long Island.
We hope that this assists with your investigation of the market. Things change daily; these are the current statistics. Please contact us at 631-727-2227 for additional details.
AT OPTIONS REALTY, WE COMMIT TO RETURNING YOUR CALL, BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8 A.M. AND 8 P.M, MONDAY THROUGH SUNDAY, WITHIN 1/2 HOUR. TRY IT: 631-727-2227.We are located in the Old Post Office building in Riverhead, New York. We live in Southold. We are committed to you, and anxious to prove it.
Our home selling/home buying services include the towns and hamlets of Riverhead, Aquebogue, Jamesport, Laurel, Peconic, Southold, Cutchogue, Greenport, East Marion, and Orient, New York, all located in the North Fork of Long Island. Call us to sell your home; call us to buy a home. Visit www.optionsrealty.com, or view a listing at www.2220depotln.com in order to check out our individual web sites. Yours can be next!
Welcome Starbucks
May 31st, 2007 category: North Fork Neighborhoods, People and Places, Real Estate News, Real Estate Philosophy, Southold Real Estate1 Comment »
I had my first- in -forever Starbucks Mocha yesterday. At the Featherhill shopping center located in Southold, Long Island, New York, a store has just opened.
While the local community generally eschews the presence of visibly large chains and franchises, my favorite mocha flew under the radar somehow. As a small business owner, I can understand concerns about having large chains and franchises come into town- in addition to disturbing the delicate balance of charming, local venues with potentially garish looking entities that include a drive thru, it poses a genuine risk to the continued sustenance of local companies, not to mention the unique aspect of different shops with different local styles. As an area that experiences a high volume of summer traffic, disturbing the balance is a natural concern.
Interestingly, little is noted about the presence of another huge franchise entity, the Cendant Corporation. Having created a separate company that deals only in real estate, Realogy is the owner of several “local” companies, including Century 21, Corcoran, Sothebys International (Daniel Gale), and both ERA and Coldwell Banker. Quite a handful of New York real estate opportunities.
Agway is a large company, but that doesn’t detract from the wonderful store operated in Southold. The McDonalds in Mattituck gets frequent visitors that have a penchant for occasional fast food. While national drugstores are making an appearance, the Southold Pharmacy serves all of my needs, but perhaps I’ll visit the newly constructed CVS,also located in Mattituck (except, I’m always lured into the Love Lane shops, and find it hard to leave)…and what would we do without King Cullen in Cutchogue, when variety is sought? Large, and neccessary, at least to me.
Will I choose Starbucks over a local coffee provider? Yes, and no. If I want a fabulous mocha, Starbucks has my taste buds to a tee. A chain store rarely offers what the local businesses have to offer, and Starbucks doesn’t change that. It just offers a quality choice when the mocha craving hits-until now, it’s been a treat that’s been missing. That said, absolutely nothing can replace the quality breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and pastries offered in Southold- and I always order orange juice with them anyway.
I lived without Starbucks; I think that my quality of day to day would be compromised without our locally owned breakfast contingent. Another great place to stop, over coffee, and discuss your real estate needs: serving experience in real estate to Riverhead, Jamesport, Aquebogue, Peconic, Laurel, Mattituck, Southold, Cutchogue, Greenport, East Marion, and Orient!
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