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Good Morning, North Fork! We have snow on the ground, that’s nature’s way of telling us to slow down.

In today’s North Fork Buzz:

• Slower Speeds Ahead

• Twisted Sisters

• Christmas Tree Season

Ready, Set, Go!

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The Lowdown

Slower Speeds Ahead 🚗

If you regularly cruise County Road 48, consider this your friendly heads up: things are about to slow down a bit.

The Southold Town Board has signed off on Suffolk County’s plan to lower speed limits along the heavily traveled stretch, aiming to make the road safer and a whole lot less confusing. Large portions of CR-48 will soon be set at 45 mph, with a 40 mph zone rolling through the residential stretch between Loyal Road and Chapel Lane.

Town officials leaned on the expertise of county traffic engineers who conducted the safety study, noting that when it comes to accident prevention, it’s worth giving the plan a shot.

While Suffolk County ultimately controls the roadway and will implement the changes, Southold officials plan to keep an eye on crash data over the next year to see if slower speeds make a difference.

Get the full story 👉 Dan’s Papers

Twisted Sisters 🍸

Sharon Harbin and Kristy VanBrunt are the brains and heart behind Rocco’s Twisted Sisters, a delightfully quirky bar that opened in November and already feels like it’s been part of the neighborhood forever.

Inside, you’ll find a pool table, classic cocktails flowing, pizza on hand, free chips (yes, free), and walls lined with custom art, including pieces by Harbin herself. The goal was simple: create a space where locals can walk in, exhale, and feel comfortable being exactly who they are.

After years working behind the bar at places like Whiskey Wind Tavern and Legends, the sisters took a leap of faith and said yes to running their own spot. Scary? Absolutely. Worth it? So far, very much yes.

The name Rocco’s Twisted Sisters is a nod to their rebellious streaks and unapologetic authenticity, something that carries through in everything from the décor to the energy behind the bar.

Get the full story 👉 Northforker

Christmas Tree Season 🎄

It’s officially find the perfect tree season.

From skinny, slightly scrappy Charlie Brown trees to full, proud Douglas Firs, East End tree farms are buzzing this year as families bundle up and head out to pick the one that’ll anchor the living room for the holidays.

At Zuhoski Farms in Cutchogue, it’s been one of the busiest seasons yet. Owner Steven Zuhoski says trees are flying faster than ever, marking the quickest sell-out since the farm started growing its own trees nearly 20 years ago.

Over in Mattituck, Shamrock Christmas Tree Farm has already cleared out nearly an entire lot of Douglas Firs and expects thousands of visitors before December wraps.

While national stats say artificial trees still dominate most American homes, the North Fork is clearly holding strong to the real deal tradition. With farms like Lewin in Calverton, Santa’s in Cutchogue, and Ahkobaug in Aquebogue still open, there’s plenty of opportunity to fill your home with that unmistakable scent of pine. ($)

Get the full story 👉 Suffolk Times

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Happenings: This Week

Monday

🩸 Blood Drive Roll up your sleeve, The Mattituck Park District is hosting a Blood Drive at Veterans Memorial Park. It’s a small act with a big impact, and yes, there’s a little thank-you involved. MPD resident donors will receive $5 off a Summer 2026 Resident Park District Pass, because saving lives pairs nicely with future beach days. More Info

🤶 Meet Mrs. Claus The holiday magic is headed to the Southold Library and Mrs. Claus herself is making an appearance. Come Meet Mrs. Claus for a cozy, storybook worthy afternoon featuring the classic Twas the Night Before Christmas. After story time, Mrs. Claus will be on hand to say hello, snap photos, and help little ones write a letter to Santa or create a festive holiday card. More Info

🎶 Ugly Sweater Karaoke Dust off your most gloriously hideous holiday sweater The Halyard is hosting Ugly Sweater Piano Karaoke. Head to the Piano Bar for a night of singalongs, belly laughs, and sweaters so questionable they deserve their own apology letter. Prizes go to the ugliest of the ugly, so bring your A-game. More Info

Tuesday

🧀💐 Fondue & Floral Head over to Flavor Fork for a Fondue & Flora. Kick things off with Elissa from Imaginariums by Elissa, crafting a succulent birch log candle arrangement. Then it’s aprons on as Chef Sarah leads a hands on cheese fondue session. Melty from scratch goodness with all the classic dunkables. More Info

Wednesday

🎅🏻 Sensitive Santa Not all holiday magic needs to be loud, Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm is proving it with their Sensitive Santa event. Designed for kiddos who shine brightest in a calmer, low-sensory setting, this special visit offers soft lights, quiet moments, and all the Christmas warmth without the overwhelm. More Info

Thursday

🍝 Dinner for Two Cancel your cooking plans and cue the comfort food. Dinner for Two by Maroni Southold is serving up a cozy classic, featuring Grandma Maroni’s famous Italian meatballs over penne pomodoro. Even better? Every delicious bite supports the Southold Historical Museum. More Info

🎨 Mandala Ornaments Head over to The Giving Room as they team up with Ali Katz Kitchen for a cozy, creative holiday hang. Get hands on making mandala ornaments or painting a canvas tote bag (dealer’s choice), all while sipping rich hot cocoa and nibbling on festive holiday treats. Artist Julie O’Daly will be on hand to guide the process. More Info

🍔 McCall Burgers Burger nights just found their new home at Silver Sands. McCall Burger Nights are back all season long, serving up McCall’s famous grass-fed Charolais burger and fries every Thursday and Friday. More Info

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Extra Honey

Move Better - Feel Better - Live Longer

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Live Music + Fun Breakdown

Monday

The Watershed | Erin Chase | 6-9 PM
The Halyard | Ugly Sweater Karaoke | 7-10 PM

Tuesday

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

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THANKS!

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Tom Loncar- Publisher
Nicole Loncar- Editor + Partnerships