Letter from the Editor

by Tomik Dash

It’s an odd thing to be working on all things related to summer while it’s still cold outside. Currently, when I hit the streets of NYC, I wear long johns layered underneath my pants. I’m bundled up in a down coat that doesn’t let the cold anywhere near my skin. And yet my life is consumed by things that won’t be happening until several months from now, when the sun will be beaming and a warm breeze will blow across my thighs as I make my way down Fire Island Blvd in my shortest of short shorts.

I often daydream of the time when I can board the Sayville Ferry and cross Great South Bay into the gay little utopia that is the Pines and Cherry Grove. To act like I haven’t been counting down since the end of last September, when I took my last ferry ride off of the island would be a lie. When friends who have never been ask me what it’s like out there, I often reply that it is what you make it. If you want a weekend blitz of parties, you can have that. If you want a relaxing getaway, you can have that as well. If you’re an artist who needs a place to go for inspiration, your cup shall runneth over! There are so many different facets of the community out there and I wanted to create a place where it can all come together.

FAG RAG Fire Island is born out of all of that. And this Preview Issue serves to give you a glimpse of what’s to come this summer. From our photo shoots, two of which were shot on the island, to our resource guide that will let you know what will be happening when the season gets started. Think of this as a diet version. And on Memorial Day weekend when the first print issue goes out, you’ll get the full calorie fantasy! I just lost all of the vodka soda gays, didn’t I? For those of you still here, I hope you enjoy, and be sure to follow us on IG @fagragmag, because there is still SO much more to come.