North Fork/Riverhead Weekend Agenda: Karaoke for a Cause, Nature Walks

Story by Joseph Pinciaro:

The weekend is almost here, but with heavy rains possible on the way, those looking forward to some outdoors events may want to call in advance. For more going on, check out our full calendars on North Fork Patch and Riverhead Patch.

 SHELTER ISLAND  
• Book reading: Dog trainer and author of "Hamptons Dogs," Lisa Hartman, will be talking at the Shelter Island Library on Friday at 7 p.m.  

ORIENT  
• Bird Walk: Join an Orient Beach State Park Ranger on Saturday at 9 a.m. as she takes a group of nature enthusiasts on a bird watching tour of the park. Meet at the snack bar; cost is $8.  

SOUTHOLD  
• Benefit Paddle: 'Paddle for Paws,' leaving from Port of Egypt Marina on Saturday afternoon at 4, will benefit education programs at Group for the East End as well as the North Fork Animal Welfare League. Cost is $55 ($75 for a double kayak) and includes the paddle and a barbecue following the event.  

PECONIC  
• Merliance Tasting: The Long Island Merlot Alliance, a group of North Fork winemakers, will release their offering from the "landmark 2010 vintage." Six winemakers will be on hand Friday at 7 p.m. at Raphael, along with at least 20 wines. Cost is $40.  
• Tour deCure: Kicking off – and ending at – Pindar Vineyards on Main Road, this bike ride is raising funds for the American Diabetes Association. Different length of rides are offered, kicking off at different times on Saturday morning; cost of entry is $150.  

CUTCHOGUE  
• Nature Walk: Another walk outside on Saturday morning will be taking place at Downs Farm Preserve in Cutchgoue. Led by Group for the East End, the walk will focus on invasive species.    

RIVERHEAD  
• Karaoke Fundraiser: The Fourth Annual 'Sing for the East End' fundraiser will be held on Saturday at 7 p.m. at Vail-Leavitt Music Hall. This year's event will benefit the East End Hospice's "Good Grief" program, which supports children who recently lost a loved one. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 the day of.  
• Flapjack Fundraiser: Also benefitting East End Hospice is a breakfast fundraiser Sunday morning at Applebee's on Route 58.