Volume 1, Number 1

I always considered myself pretty aware of what was happening on this Island. Not that I have my 'sources'. I somehow knew about the first time there was going to be fireworks on Jones Beach (this year). I know about many of the great geographical sites. On many occasions I have taken friends and at times gone myself, to spend time in 'our' wine country. It still gives me some sense of connection that the wine is made here. At times I have mentioned it to fellow travelers with a certain sense of pride. It felt good to read of the size and phenomenal growth of Computer Associates whose home base is right here in Islandia. Though I have little to do with any of the prior items, I still find myself taking a certain sense of connection in the fact that it is all here on our Island. That feeling certainly gets stronger when I am traveling and have occasion to talk to others about where I'm from.

Last summer I was on vacation in the Canadian Rockies and the Pacific area. Needless to say it was a wonderful trip. I had read about and seen television stories of the proliferation of Micro Breweries both in our country and in Canada. I was still not prepared to see the numbers of these new companies that I happened upon in almost every town visited. There is a certain pride that the locals exude when they talk about the new brewery in town. I could see how they were almost proud to feel a connection to this new business.

One new brewery stands out in my mind. In Whistler, BC there is a company called Whistler Brewing Company. They are off the beaten path and it took some path exploring to locate them and pay a visit. The people connected to all aspects of the company were wonderful to relate to and it seemed like I couldn't ask a 'stupid' question. They were very anxious to help in any way they could. Though there wasn't any formal tours as yet the master brewer was happy to take us around the facility and actually show u s how they did it. After having some samples I found that I could not leave with out a hat and a mug that were adorned with the companylogo.

Now fast forward to last week and I am browsing through the "Long Island Travel Guide" which is put out by the Long Island Convention and Visitors Bureau 800-441-4601. Much to my amazement I come across an article with the headline, 'LI Now Features Two Micro-Breweries'. The article refers to the fact that they are 'springing up all over the country'. Less than a year ago the James Bay Brewery opened in Port Jefferson Harbor. Visitors can sample the six different brews and watch the brewing process. The second one is the Long Island Brewing Company located in Jericho. The L.I.B.C. had their brew house imported from Prague and it features an interesting copper-top bar where the brews can be sampled. They also have a display of history of beer and how it is made.

I haven't been off the Island for long enough stretches at a time for them to have built these facilities while I was away. A real native son completely missed this happening..... How Come?