North Fork Visitor Centers Reopen

The North Fork's two visitor centers — one in Laurel and one in Greenport — opened back up for business on Wednesday during a special luncheon from the

Local bed and breakfast owners, farmers, accountants, realtors, and others active in the business community came to the noontime event and enjoyed wine and sandwiches served up by woman like Ruth Phaff and Jeannette Olmstead, who work at the at the booths all season.

Suffolk County Legis. Ed Romaine and Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell, in his third day back at work after an extended health-related hiatus, also showed up at the event.

"This weekend is when the tourism season really begins," Romaine said. "Southold Town has made a concerted effort to promote tourism here and at the Greenport location. It's huge part of the economy in Southold."