"Now is the winter of our discontent" are the opening words of William Shakespeare's bloody play The Tragedy of Richard the Third. Long Islanders are still suffering through the bleak winter of 2003-2004.

Some among us are growing deeply discontented with the Canadian blasts of cold air and the 3-ft. icicles hanging from the gutter and leaders on our roofs. (see photo) Black ice is another meteorological term we have grown accustomed to. I will not even broach the heating bills or the money spent on mittens, scarves and sweaters.

Cabin fever is defined as growing wearing and testy from being confined to quarters around the house. That disease is rampant. Unfortunately no end appears to be in sight.

In the midst of the Arctic winter we are pummeled by pictures of sunny Florida, desert-like Arizona and exotic Hawaii on television and in the newspapers. Our friends in Florida always manage to sneak in beautiful weather reports of sun and heat after they have read about our terrible suffering.

I imagine the price of Florida real estate will get a huge boost after this tough winter. Before people depart to head south, I would like to make a pitch for Long Island.

"There is no more beautiful spot in the world than Long Island!" There, I have said it. From the long, sandy beaches of the Hamptons to the fun towns of Roslyn, Syosset, Jericho, Great Neck and Huntington, the quality of life is excellent.

We are also in proximity of that stimulating and exciting place called New York City, which has something for everyone.

Here are just a few activities that can be found just outside your door in Nassau and Suffolk Counties: museums, rolling golf courses, hiking and biking, tennis, botanical gardens, camping, birding, nature trails, state parks, world class beaches, marinas, fishing, inland waters, restaurants of American and international cuisine, horse farms, theater and night life, art galleries and amusement parks and zoos.

Is that enough?

Okay, so we don't have 70, 80 or 90 degree temperatures during December, January and February, Sometimes you have to weather (sic) a storm before you can enjoy the spring, summer and autumn.

Hang tight Long Islanders, the winter is almost over!