Together With

Good Morning, North Fork! Happy New Year! If your brain is still buffering from the holidays, don’t worry The Buzz is here to do the thinking and the planning for you.

In today’s North Fork Buzz:

• Dumpster Fire

• Salute to Service

• A New Term Begins

Ready, Set, Go!

Sponsored By Sophie’s Rest

Where good food and good times never rest 🍕🍻

Craving a local gem with history and flavor? Look no further than Sophie's Rest in Southold. Nestled at 730 Main Bayview Road, Sophie's is renowned for its thin cracker crust pizzas that locals can't get enough of. But that's not all, Tuesday night prime rib is a tradition you won't want to miss. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, it's the perfect spot to unwind, and savor delicious food. Whether you're a longtime resident or just passing through, Sophie's offers a taste of local charm and culinary delight. Stop by or call 631-765-5700.

Website

The Lowdown

Dumpster Fire 🔥

A fire caused a stir on New Year’s Day outside the Southold IGA when a dumpster caught fire around 4:15pm. Thankfully, the Southold Fire Department was on scene quickly and extinguished the flames before they could spread.

There was some minor damage to the exterior of the building, but the good news: no damage inside and no injuries reported. Fire officials confirmed the blaze was contained outside the store. Suffolk County arson investigators responded to the scene, with assistance from the Greenport and Cutchogue fire departments.

Get the full story 👉 Patch

A Salute to Service 🚓

After 30 years on the job, highway patrol officer Peter Onufrak officially retired with a ceremonial walkout on December 29, surrounded by current and former colleagues. Onufrak leaves behind a legacy of leadership, including serving as the department’s first Sergeant-At-Arms and earning Officer of the Year honors after rescuing two residents from a burning home in 2019.

Just two days later, Officer Dan Mackey hung up his badge after more than 25 years in law enforcement. Known for his steady professionalism and reliability, Mackey’s career made a lasting impact on the safety of the community he served.

Together, the pair close the book on 55 years of service with the Southold Police Department. ($)

Get the full story 👉 Suffolk Times

A New Term Begins 🏛

There were plenty of proud smiles in the room as 11 Southold Town leaders elected last November were officially sworn in on January 2 at the Peconic Lane Recreation Center.

Town Justice Dan Ross administered the oaths and took a moment to recognize everyone who ran, all 21 candidates reminding the crowd that simply stepping up to run is a form of public service. He also offered a heartfelt reminder that democracy, like a farm, a family, or a business, only thrives if you take care of it.

The ceremony was led by Al Krupski, who praised both newly elected and returning officials as neighbors first and public servants always. The morning also featured a beautiful National Anthem by a Southold High School Select Choir member and a blessing from Rev. Andrew Cadieux of Mattituck.

Get the full story 👉 East End Beacon

^{_{Stories with a ($) require a third party subscription}}

Happenings: This Week

Tuesday

📚 History Buffs Step back in time at 250 Years of Long Island History wit the Southold Library. In honor of America’s upcoming 250th birthday, Eco-Photo Explorers will take you on a fast-paced, story-filled journey through two and a half centuries of Long Island life, from wartime moments and big inventions to cultural milestones and unforgettable local events. More Info

🦪 Shuck Yeah Grab a drink, slurp an oyster, and feel very good about it at Support Your Local Farmer at the Rams Head Inn. The evening features Chris Coyne of Peeko Oysters, happy hour drink specials, and $2 oysters, with direct cash payment going straight to the farmer. More Info

^{_{Nothing in this section is sponsored. They’re just fun things you need to know. I’ll always let you know when something is sponsored}}

Local Spotlight

Play Ball ⚾️

It’s almost time for fresh grass, dusty cleats, and cheering from the sidelines, North Fork Little League spring registration for 2026 is officially open now through February 28.

Got more than one future all-star at home? Good news: family discounts are available for households with multiple players.

Sign them up, grab the lawn chairs, and get ready for another season of big hits, and even bigger snack bags. Play ball!

^{_{Nothing in this section is sponsored. They’re just fun things you need to know. I’ll always let you know when something is sponsored}}

Extra Honey

Move Better - Feel Better - Live Longer

Dr. Marilyn A. LoPresti, Ph.D. of North Fork Bodies in Motion introduces a new Vitality & Longevity Coaching program. Rooted in research-based wellness practices, her personalized sessions blend tai chi, qigong, and gentle movement, plus stress reduction strategies and mindful breathing techniques to support lifelong health. Each coaching experience is tailored to individual needs, creating a personal action plan for living well and aging well. Choose in-person or virtual sessions to bring balance, resilience, and renewed energy into daily life.*

Inquire via email for coaching and gift certificates at [email protected]

Facebook | Instagram

 _{^{*Indicates sponsored advertising content}}

Live Music + Fun Breakdown

Monday

The Watershed | TBA | 6-9 PM

Tuesday

First & South | Jazz E | 5-8 PM
Front Street Station | Music Bingo | 7 PM

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign Up

Want your business in the North Fork Buzz? Lets Chat

Did I miss something? Let me know at [email protected] 

THANKS!

Thanks for reading the North Fork Buzz today. Like what you read? Send it to a friend!

Tom Loncar- Publisher
Nicole Loncar- Editor + Partnerships