But, Dr. Kamer pointed out, there is one potential bright spot on the horizon for our regional economy: East End tourism.

This weekend we witnessed a convincing demonstration of the power of this regional economic engine. In the middle of February, in the midst of a severe recession, visitors flocked to the North Fork in droves. They came to visit the wineries, listen to live jazz, eat out at local restaurants and take in the beauty of the North Fork in winter.

Local roads, tasting rooms and restaurants were almost as crowded as they are at the height of the season. Some wineries had to actually turn people away because their tasting rooms were full to capacity.(See story.)

The North Fork tourism economy may not suffer as much as we feared it would, after all. Or so we hope.

There are lessons to be learned in this.

First, the investment of public funds to preserve farmland and open space -- the environment in which our tourism economy thrives -- was a good investment. Traditional development (shopping centers, single-family homes) and tourism are antithetical.

Second, the health of the Long Island wine region is central to the health of our regional economy. (Buy local!)

Third, cultural tourism -- one of the biggest revenue generators in New York state, incidentally -- can and should play an important role in our economic future. Wine, art and music are natural partners. Cultural events at the vineyards and in other venues across the seasons will help drive tourism on the North Fork.

The North Fork is well positioned to weather the current economic storm. Its close proximity to a major population center, its natural beauty, the wine region and the right mix of forward-thinking event planning will all contribute to its survival.

Kudos to the L.I. Wine Council, the East End Arts Council and the L.I. Convention and Visitors Bureau for the foresight and creativity to conceive, develop and produce Winterfest.