Island Review - March 2024

▪ Women's History Month

▪ Sweet Tea

▪ Garden Gate

▪ Rental Signs

▪ At the Aquarium

▪ The Ocean Breeze

▪ Emerald Tidings

 Food for Thought

▪ Property Watch

▪ Chamber Connection

▪ Book Bag

▪ Events Calendar

▪ Mayors’ Notes

coasting

E.I. Garden Club Hosts Annual Event

The Emerald Isle Garden Club is hosting their Annual Card & Games Party. The event will take place on March 6 from 1 - 4pm at the Emerald Isle Community Center located at 203 Leisure Lane Emerald Isle.

Advance ticket sales only, none sold at the door and must be received by February 26th. Contact Theresa Connelly-Kavanagh at 252-764-0420 or eigardenclub@gmail.com

Tickets include delicious desserts, beverages & and a chance at a door prize.

Tickets will be sold at the event for assorted baskets & gifts & a cash raffle.

One Very Big Quilt - Now on Display

Twenty years ago, a small idea was hatched that grew into a REALLY BIG quilt with a huge and lasting story of North Carolina’s health care system.

The resulting “Stitching North Carolina: The Hundred County Quilt” was on display at Core Sound Museum & Heritage Center in Harkers Island through the month of February and has moved to the Museum’s Morehead City location at 806 Arendell Street in recognition of National Quilt Month in March.

The quilt measures 16 feet by 8 feet and contains blocks made by quilters for all of North Carolina’s one hundred counties.

Karen Amspacher, Executive Director of Core Sound Museum & Heritage Center said, “This quilt represents North Carolina’s history, locations and people. We are excited to highlight this beautiful creation at Core Sound since our mission includes sharing the stories of quilts from Down East as part of a statewide tradition.”

The history of the quilt is also linked to the history of the UNC Health System. To celebrate the opening of the North Carolina Women’s and North Carolina Children’s Hospitals in September 8, 2001, Joy Javits was tapped to lead a project that would represent all 100 counties served by the hospitals. A brilliant quilt made by many hands was the center piece at the celebration alongside

children’s drawings of county flags and writings by women.

The need for an expanded health care system in North Carolina was recognized during World War II when young men were rejected from military service due to health reasons more frequently than in any other state. Not surprisingly, the state’s number of doctors and hospitals ranked near the bottom. North Carolina needed a state hospital.

A two-year medical school was established in Chapel Hill in 1879 and was expanding to a four-year program. This was seen as the logical setting for the state hospital which would serve all North Carolinians regardless of their ability to pay. North Carolina Memorial Hospital opened for business on September 2, 1952, and has grown into five hospitals in the years since.

The Hundred County Quilt was stitched by 125 quilters between 2001 and 2018 and continues to tell the story of the hospital system and the history of North Carolina wherever it visits. “We believe this is its first visit to Carteret County,” Nan Miller, an avid Carteret County quilter and exhibition coordinator added.

"We are still researching who the quilter from Carteret County was selected to do our county’s square. If you know, please contact the Museum. We are hoping someone can help us identify who that contributing quilter was,” added Amspacher.

The Morehead City location is open 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday.

LWV Hosts Celebrates Women's History

The League of Women Voters of Carteret County is again collaborating with the Carteret County Historical Society to host a reception at the History Museum of Carteret County to celebrate omen’s History Month in March.

The reception will be held from 5:30-7:30pm. The theme this year will be “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.”

This reception is open to the entire community. The goal is to continue celebrating the accomplishments of local women who have made a notable impact in our community.

The History Museum of Carteret County is located at 1008 Arendell St. in Morehead City. League members will offer light fare donated by local female chefs/restaurateurs and members. Tables of information represented by local female-centered agencies and organizations will be available, and a silent auction will be held to benefits the League's educational activities, including Vote411.org, a one-stop online website for election-related information including all of the candidate profiles for every race in Carteret County.

Gracie Bender, Director of the History Museum states: "Across the nation, local, county history museums like ours constantly endeavor to link nearby history with national events. The historical society’s partnership with the League does just that by highlighting important national milestones for women’s rights.”

This reception is a fundraiser for both the League and the History Museum. Tickets are $10, which will go to support the activities of the History Museum and the League of Women Voters of Carteret County.

Photograph Courtesy of ©Trend Wallcoverings

Chamber Celebrating Business Awards

Every year, the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce presents the Celebrating Business Awards in recognition of businesses, organizations and individuals who have made remarkable impacts on the Crystal Coast’s business community and community as a whole. On February 23, the Chamber hosted a luncheon and ceremony at the DoubleTree by Hilton Atlantic Beach Oceanside to honor the nine 2024 winners.

Giving Hope Award: Carteret County Public School Foundation

The Giving Hope Award, recognizing continuous charitable giving and service, was proudly presented to the Carteret County Public School Foundation.

The Carteret County Public School Foundation is dedicated to elevating the quality of education and focuses on enriching education for all students, supporting faculty, and securing funds for projects that cannot be funded with local, state or federal dollars.

“Whether we are implementing dynamic classroom programs, supporting aspiring educators through scholarships, or providing assistance during crises within our education community, CCPSF remains steadfast in its commitment to empower the youth and contribute to the overall development of our community,” Development Director Erica Jones said.

Small Business of the Year: Robby Oakes Mortgage Team, CIMG

The Small Business of the Year Award was presented to the Robby Oakes Mortgage Team at CIMG in Morehead City. Their dedication to customer service, integrity of business practices, and community support sets a benchmark for small enterprises.

“It is such an honor to be selected as Carteret County’s small business of the year,” Managing Director Robby Oakes said. “We are very thankful for this community, and we do everything we can to support our schools and local non-profit organizations. We pride ourselves on customer service, integrity, and giving back. We appreciate all of the support we have received from the members of our community.”

New Business of the Year: Grow Fitness & Wellness LLC

In recognition of entrepreneurial spirit and true grit, the New Business of the Year Award was presented to Grow Fitness & Wellness LLC. Owner Rachel Cooper started the business in her garage in Beaufort, providing a much-needed gym facility for the town. In late 2022, she made the decision to expand her staff and services and moved into a permanent location.

“The thing that people like about GROW is that we are all “real” people. We are a family,” Cooper said. “It’s different from walking into a “machine” gym and going about your business. There is a sense of community. Everyone talks to each other, encourages, laughs, and pushes each other. It’s fun when you’re out and about and you see your gym buddies. People you may not normally talk to.”

Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award: Cheryl Mansfield

Cheryl Mansfield was awarded the Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award for her remarkable dedication to serving the community as a loyal volunteer with several organizations, including

the Morehead City Rotary Club - Lookout, the Carteret County Domestic Violence Program, and the Chamber where she serves as a member of the Board of Directors. She is also a financial advisor with Edward Jones.

“I’m still in shock, honored and speechless! I love to volunteer and give back to my community. I couldn’t do what I do without the support of my husband,” Mansfield said. “I don’t do what I do for recognition; I do it because I love living in Morehead City. Carteret County is so special, and I want to help make it the best place to live and visit.”

Citizen of the Year: John Hagle

John Hagle was honored with the Citizen of the Year Award for his commitment to the betterment of the community through his volunteer and civic work. He spent 15 years serving the Town of Beaufort as a commissioner (2008-2023), is a supporter of many local organizations and has served in many volunteer capacities, from tax-preparer to Beaufort Historic Site bus driver. He has served on the Chamber board for many years, and spent two of those as Board Chair.

Young Professional of the Year: Nataleigh Fabian

Nataleigh Fabian, both a Broker/REALTOR with HomeFront Realty and special education teacher in Craven County, received the

(Continued on page 18)

Erin Knight, President Carteret County Chamber of Commerce

Kathryn Metts Executive Director

March on Down to Main Street

Anew month is upon us, and we are looking forward to the promise of longer days, warmer temperatures, and the return of spring. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Daylight Savings Time and set your clocks an hour forward on March 10th to enjoy extra daylight hours exploring all that downtown Morehead City and the Crystal Coast have to offer.

Shake off the winter blues and get outdoors all month long! Take advantage of the trails, parks, and natural areas scattered throughout our beautiful county. In downtown Morehead City alone, there are numerous public water accesses at your disposal, plus an engaging Fish Walk scavenger hunt that connects the history of our community’s fishing heritage through public art. Stop by the Downtown Morehead City, Inc. office at the Historic Train Depot for a copy of the Fish Walk map!

There are lots of great holidays to celebrate and downtown events to attend this month. Starting strong with International Women’s Day on March 8th, we encourage you to patronize the women-owned businesses in your community. Many of our downtown shops, restaurants, and services are proudly owned and operated by some strong, leading ladies!

Looking for an excuse to eat pizza? Head downtown on Pi Day, 3.14, and grab a slice to celebrate. Several of our local restaurants serve up delicious pizza options, and our coffee shops and bakeries can fulfill your sweet tooth pie needs too.

While you’re treating yourself, go ahead and book a weekend vacay. Text the group chat and organize a stay in downtown Morehead City for St. Patrick’s Day. Don’t forget to don your green apparel and make the most of eating and drinking your way throughout the district. Our bars and restaurants will be buzzing with pub crawls, Irish specials, and lucky activities to boot.

And, although spring officially starts on March 19th, you can certainly get ahead on your spring style by refreshing your wardrobe with one-ofa-kind finds from our many boutiques and gift shops. Plus, our downtown stores have a great selection of Easter basket gifts and goodies for your little ones, so be sure to stock up early!

Regardless of age, interest, background, or preference – there truly is something for everyone in downtown Morehead City!

Downtown Morehead City, Inc. is a North Carolina Main Street 501c3 economic development organization that supports new and existing businesses in the downtown area, and partners with the Town of Morehead City on various design and economic vitality projects. We encourage you to support small, local businesses all year long! Downtown Happenings is an e-newsletter distributed monthly to those who would like to be in the know on the latest projects and events that are taking place downtown. Sign up at our website, www.downtownmoreheadcity. com

Hail to the Handy, Dandy Binder Clip

You can never have too many binder clips … in the workplace or at home.

One of the greatest inventions of all time, the binder clip is a lightweight but heavy-duty clamp that underpins giant corporations as well as micro businesses.

The inventor of the binder clip in 1910 was Louis E. Baltzley of Washington, D.C. His binder clip was capable of clamping together multiple sheets of paper. It was viewed as a solution to hold together business papers written by his father, Edwin Baltzley.

Prior to the binder clip, pages of a document were punched with multiple holes and literally sewn or bound together using ribbon or yarn. Obviously, it was a tedious process to remove and revise a single sheet as well as to add or delete pages.

Clearly, binder clips are more durable than paper clips, which can easily be bent and lose their gripping ability. Binder clips are also superior to staples, which can be difficult to remove, if changes to a document are necessary.

Made of metal with two stiff wire loops, the binder clip is bent into the shape of an isosceles triangle. Pressing the extended wire loops between one’s thumb and index finger creates an opening at the top of the triangle for the insertion of any number of sheets of paper. Releasing the pressure on the wire loops causes the jaws to clamp down, securing the document. Voilà.

Louis Baltzley initially produced his invention through the L.E.B. Manufacturing Company, and the letters “L.E.B.” are stamped on one side of the sheet metal. Manufacturing rights were later licensed to other companies.

“Inventing stuff” was in Louis Baltzley’s genes. His maternal grandfather Elias Howe of Spencer, Mass., invented the sewing machine in 1845. Howe’s invention proved to be five times faster than the swiftest hand sewers working in American textile factories.

Howe eventually established the Howe Machine Company of Bridgeport, Conn., and his sewing machine won the gold medal at

the Paris Exhibition of 1867.

Louis Baltzley received about 30 patents during his career. Other items he invented or improved include: culinary beaters, smoking stand ashtrays, ping pong rackets, metallic trash receptacles, sifter tops, a fruit pitting device, a fish hook manufacturing device and adjustable wrenches.

Freelance journalist Linda Hales commented that the only good invention to ever come out of Washington, D.C., is Louis Baltzley’s binder clip – the “springy steel clamp that has tamed mountains of documents.”

“As Washingtonians know, the local industry is regulation, not invention, so we’ve never been a hotbed of industrial design. Still, genius has emerged from our midst,” Hales said. Even in an age of technology and social media, “papers still have to be brought under control. And office workers the world over are reaching for Washington’s humble masterpiece.”

Phaidon, a global publishing firm based in London, England, ranks the binder clip as Number 97 out of 999 all-time great inventions, Hales added.

One wonders if the Phaidon folks considered all the “alternative uses” for binder clips?

One of the most celebrated uses for a binder clip occurred on April 30, 1996, during testing of the North American XB-70 Valkyrie research aircraft, capable of flying at Mach 3.08 speed (approximately 2,283 mph).

Air Force Col. Joe Cotton was at the controls when the experimental jet’s landing gear jammed. He creatively used a binder clip to short-circuit the electrical system and activate the landing gear. Newspaper headlines exclaimed that a 39-cent binder clip “saved a $750 million aircraft.”

For the fascinating full story, access the Roadrunners Internationale website.

Mike Wagoner

tide tables

MARCH 2024

APRIL 2024

34º 43’ Latitude

76º 42’

HIGHLOW

Atlantic Beach -:41 -:39

Atlantic Beach Bridge +:22 +:34

Beaufort Inlet -:19 -:17

Bogue Inlet -:13 -:13

Cape Lookout -:43 -:49

Core Creek Bridge +1:00 +1:19

Drum Inlet -:29 -:31

Duke Marine Lab +:16 +:12

Ft. Macon USCG -:09 -:10

Harkers Island +1.26 +2:06

Harkers Island Bridge +1:42 +2:04

Hatteras Inlet -:18 -:15

Newport River +:44 +1:02

New River Inlet -:10 -:11 DST FOR MOREHEAD CITY, NC

DST FOR MOREHEAD CITY, NC

34º 43’ Latitude

76º 42’ Longitude

Tidal Time Difference

Between Morehead City &:

HIGH LOW

Atlantic Beach -:41 -:39

Atlantic Beach Bridge +:22 +:34

Beaufort Inlet -:19 -:17

Bogue Inlet -:13 -:13

Cape Lookout -:43 -:49

Core Creek Bridge +1:00 +1:19

Drum Inlet -:29 -:31

Duke Marine Lab +:16 +:12

Ft. Macon USCG -:09 -:10

Harkers Island +1.26 +2:06

Harkers Island Bridge +1:42 +2:04

Hatteras Inlet -:18 -:15

Newport River +:44 +1:02

New River Inlet -:10 -:11

CHAMBER

(Continued from page 12)

Young Professional of the Year Award, recognizing her commitment to community support, volunteer service, and drive for professional growth. She is a proud booster of the Morehead City Middle School band, and volunteers with Downtown Morehead City, Inc. and the Carteret County Association of Realtors community service group. She was chair of the Chamber’s Connect Carteret Young Professionals Network in 2023, and currently sits on the boards for both the North Carolina Council for Exceptional Children and their Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities.

Receiving the Young Professional of the Year award is an incredible honor,” Fabian said. “My journey in advocacy and community service has been a fulfilling adventure. I am profoundly thankful for the support of the Connect Carteret and Chamber community. I joined Connect Carteret in 2022 when I moved to Carteret County with the intention of making a few friends and doing a little good. In turn, I have been rewarded with tremendous networking and philanthropic opportunities as well as personal and professional growth. This recognition acknowledges the strength of collaboration and compassion that defines our beautiful, coastal community.”

Extraordinary Chamber Leadership Award: Wanda Bennett

Wanda Bennett, owner of Work on Wonderful and 2023 Chamber Board Chair, was honored with the Extraordinary Chamber Leadership Award for her exceptional dedication to the organization’s growth during a year of transition in staff leadership. She took the initiative to form various Chamber committees and guided them into self sufficiency with staff support. The biggest challenge of 2023 fell on the Search Committee that Bennett Chaired. Under her leadership, they rose to the occasion and landed an excellent President for the Chamber, Erin Knight.

“What could have been a most challenging year, turning into a most wonderful year,” Bennett said. I am very grateful for a dedicated staff and Board of Directors, and look forward to continued growth in the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce for the years to come.”

Ambassadors of the Year: Debbie Fisher and Sue Schurer

Debbie Fisher and Sue Schurer were awarded Ambassadors of the Year for their hard work as volunteer Chamber representatives. As Ambassadors, the two already busy professionals pounded the pavement, visiting Chamber members all across the county.

Fisher is a vital part of the Chamber spending countless hours for years to support small businesses in Carteret County. Debbie is a Mary Kay Sales Director of 35 years and owner and operator of Office Fusion Solutions.

“I am honored and humbled by this award,” Fisher said. “This is what we all should be doing: Supporting each other in business and even having collaborations with each other.”

Schurer is semi-retired after spending 30 years as a professor of German Studies at Susquehanna University in Central Pennsylvania. Only semi, because she couldn’t resist staying busy with a part-time job and volunteerism with the Chamber.

“I didn’t realize I was ‘outstanding’ in my field!” Schurer said. “I am thoroughly enjoying retirement with my grandchildren and love keeping active with a part-time job at Honey Baked Ham in Morehead City and service to the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce.”

The Carteret County Chamber of Commerce is grateful to the recipients of these awards, both for their Chamber involvement and contributions to the community at large.

John Hagle

Cheryl Mansfield

Wanda Bennett

Robby Oakes Mortgage Team

Sue Schurer

Debbie Fisher

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March Brings Spring to the Beach

March in Atlantic Beach signals the traditional beginning of spring. Daylight savings time begins March 10th. Spring equinox is the 19th of March signaling the actual first day of spring and the sun stands directly over the equator. You may have heard the weather proverb, “If March comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb,” which means that if the month starts out stormy, it will end with mild weather. There is, however, a different interpretation: The constellation Leo, the lion, rises in the east at the beginning of March. Thus, the month “comes in like a lion,” while Aries, the ram, sets in the west at the end of the month, and hence, the month “will go out like a lamb.” A little trivia added for your enjoyment.

The NC DOT continues its work on the main intersection and plans to be complete by the end of the month. Weather conditions have caused some delays but they are remaining diligent in their efforts. The DOT has begun work on the much anticipated pedestrian crosswalk west of Palm Suites and it should be finished soon complete with flashing beacons and an island refuge and will be beneficial to pedestrian traffic and safety.

The Beach nourishment project should be nearing completion this month and like other projects weather has caused some delays. We are working on our own annual dredging projects and should have them identified and in the bidding process for May construction. We have a

Buying or Selling Property?

citizen dredging committee who along with town employees identify and select dredge sites. Our Public Works department will have all facilities ready for the start of season, Easter Weekend, March 29-31.

Speaking of Easter, our annual Egg Hunt will be a Beachfront event this year at the Circle on Saturday, March 23, 10am. The Egg Hunt has always been a hit with the young ones. The town park concession stand and mini golf will open Saturday and Sunday beginning March 30 until May 11 when it will begin opening seven days a week.

March is also a good time to get your own little piece of paradise ready for the season. When you are planning your maintenance, especially any lighting changes, please consider the treasure we have each year on our beaches when the sea turtles come ashore, dig their nest and leave eggs to further the life cycle. Consider animal friendly lights and their placement to prevent light disorientation of the little ones.

The Atlantic Beach Fire Department has taken possession and placed into service a brand new Ladder Truck. It’s an E-One Typhoon HP78 Aerial Ladder Truck and will serve as a fire engine and 78’ ladder truck. The new truck will help maintain the department’s Class 3 fire rating. She’s a beauty and is dedicated in honor of former Fire Chief Adam Snyder.

Until next time enjoy the beach, our beach, Atlantic Beach.

Mayor Danny Navey

Pam Bird

Sarah Bird 252-241-7925

Paige Coker

Alicia Nelson 252-241-0402

Al Williams 252-726-8800

Terry Rogers 252-342-3617

Dennis Simpson 252-269-1929

Shelton Edmondson 252-908-5878

Leigh Anna Weaver 252-558-8955

Clark Woodard

Beachfront Egg Hunt

Join us at The Circle in Atlantic Beach for our Beachfront Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 23, 2024! Free photos with the Easter bunny will be from 10:30am to 11:30am This event is “mist or shine,” meaning we will still offer the egg hunt as long as there is light rain only.

Egg hunts will be divided by age group.

The Toddler Zone for ages 0-3 year-olds will begin at 10:15am

4 to 7 year-olds begin at 10:20am

8 to 12 year-olds begin at 10:30am

Admission is free, and tickets are not required. If someone offers to sell you a ticket to the Beachfront Egg Hunt, please consider it fraud. Parking and restrooms are available at The Circle (115 Atlantic Blvd.).

We look forward to an EGG-cellent Easter in Atlantic Beach!

BMF Sponsorship Now Open

The Town of Atlantic Beach is proud to present the 10th Annual AB Beach Music Festival on the boardwalk at the Circle on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 11am to 6pm. This year’s festival will feature, in order of appearance, Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot, The Band of Oz, The Embers, The I-42 Band, and The Mighty Saints of Soul!

The Beach Music Festival is Atlantic Beach’s largest and most highly anticipated event of the year. With hundreds in attendance throughout Beach Music Week and over 5,000 attending the festival, we are thrilled to offer free entertainment to so many!

Exciting News For 2024: We now have a sponsorship tier that includes a RESERVED TENT SPOT ON THE FRONT ROW of the tent zone. Visit our website to view our full sponsorship packet and details!

Why Sponsor Us?

Our sponsors receive recognition on our website, Facebook page (46,000+ followers), Instagram page (9,000+ followers), and the BMF t-shirt.

Sponsors will be invited to the Business After Hours on Wednesday, May 15, featuring Jim Quick & Coastline, and a Sponsor’s Reception at Memories Beach Club on Friday, May 17.

During the festival, sponsors will have access to our complimentary VIP tent, which includes a shaded lounge, buffet lunch, snack station, drink station (beer, soda, and water), and private VIP restrooms.

Save time by sponsoring online! For 2024, you can complete your sponsorship form and payment online by visiting atlanticbeach-nc.com.

Hiring For Summer 2024

We are now accepting applications for summer positions at The Town of Atlantic Beach. Part-time seasonal positions are available at the Atlantic Beach Town Park from April through October. We are seeking mature, reliable, responsible, and energetic persons for 20-30 hours a

week, flexible shifts: days, nights, and weekends required. Hours of operation: weekends only in April, May through August open 7 days per week, 10am to 10pm, weekends only again September through October. We offer $14.00 an hour and schedules can be adjusted to accommodate college classes & secondary jobs.

We are also hiring Ocean Rescue Lifeguards! If you are at least 18 years old, possess strong swimming skills, and are looking for an exciting and rewarding summer job … this is it!

This seasonal position offers an opportunity to save lives, challenge yourself, and form relationships that can last a lifetime. Successful candidates will demonstrate strong swimming skills, excellent physical fitness, dependability, responsibility, and the ability to interact with the public. Both full-time seasonal and part-time seasonal positions are available.

For all summer positions, please apply online at atlanticbeach-nc. com/employment.

Boost Your Diet with Powerhouse Foods health & wellness

Anutritious diet is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. That’s an important thing to remember for people looking to turn over a healthier leaf and accomplish their long-term wellness goals.

Avoiding certain ingredients, like saturated fats and added sugars, and choosing foods known for their nutritional benefits is one way individuals can utilize diet to live healthier. Although such foods cannot entirely eliminate risk for certain diseases or make a person invincible, eating more of them certainly can benefit individuals’ overall health.

Kale: Kale long has had a place on healthy eating lists. Kale is a good source of vitamins A, C and K, and also contains alpha-linolenic acid, which is an omega-3 fatty acid. According to Britannica, studies show kale can help combat heart disease and cancer, and also boost eye health by reducing risk for cataracts and macular degeneration. Kale is not the only dark, leafy green vegetable that has earned superstar status. Swiss chard, spinach, collard greens, and turnip greens are equally beneficial.

Berries: There is strong antioxidant capacity associated with berries that helps reduce the risk of heart disease and other inflammatory conditions, says Healthline. That’s why blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and cranberries are so revered by nutritionists. They’re also great sources of fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Honey: This natural sweetener is a powerful ally to animals and

insects. Honey is one of the most appreciated and valued natural products, according to the study “Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research,” published in 2017. Since ancient times, honey has been used therapeutically due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, and antiproliferative effects.

Walnuts: Studies have found that those with higher nut consumption have improved cardiovascular risk factors and lower rates of cardiovascular disease. Nuts are an important part of the Mediterranean diet, which has been found to be heart healthy as well, according to Harvard Health. Walnuts are a particularly good choice for lowering LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and apoprotein B (a protein linked to cardiovascular disease).

Legumes: Legumes, also known as pulses, include beans, lentils, peas, peanuts, and alfalfa. Legumes are full of nutrients, like minerals, protein, fiber, and B vitamins. Healthline notes legumes also improve feelings of fullness, which may help people eat less at each meal.

Teff: Not too many people have heard of teff, which is a very small grain that is a dietary staple in parts of eastern Africa. Teff is high in the nutrients iron, magnesium, zinc, calcium, and vitamin C. Teff also contains ample protein and fiber. Teff also is gluten-free, so it can be ground and used in place of other flours in cooking, says Britannica.

Kefir: Fermented foods and beverages have garnered increased attention recently because of their effect on helping maintain gut health. Kefir is loaded with vitamins, minerals and nutrients, says the Cleveland Clinic. It is a fermented milk that boasts higher concentrations of probiotics than some other fermented foods, like yogurt. Kefir has approximately 12 active probiotic strains.

These nutrient-rich foods can make great additions to healthconscious individuals’ diets.

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The Genius of Israel

By Dan Senior and Saul Singer

What an important book to be published in light of the recent turmoil in Israel even though it was written before the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas on Israel. Dan Senior, an American political columnist, and Saul Singer, the Jerusalem Post editor, have compiled the fascinating story of how the cultural uniqueness of Israel has formed the key to its survival as a nation. One overriding question is –why are the people of Israel so happy while living in the constant threat of attack from the outside?

The authors note that Israel is a very expensive place to live, especially in the cities. Over half of Israeli adults say they have been victims of terror attacks or have family and friends who have been. The political atmosphere is always divisive. With all of this the scale of optimism is high. Israelis live longer than those in other nations. Senor and Singer explore why Israel is an outlier in many respects such as the country is younger in average age of citizens than any other country and has a high birthrate. Perhaps the key element in the Genius of Israel is the great sense of purpose shared by the people.

The authors explain several Jewish words which give insight into the nations well- being. One is “hevre” which refers to the social network which serves as “supra-family”. Hevre is formed in the schools, in organized youth groups, at work, and especially through military service. Another term is “gibush”. Gibush refers to bonding, a purposeful intent to keep the bonds together such as families that gather frequently. The authors point out that in such a small country you are never far from family or friends. This togetherness is traced back through the history of Israel as told in the Old Testament.

One interesting aspect of life in Israel is the fact that the people like to argue. Senior and Singer point out that Jewish people have been complaining since the moment they became a people as when they complained to Moses about their food in the wilderness. Much attention is given to the political factions which compete for power and the great diversity within the religious community. Yet, with all of these challenges the people still feel unified. Perhaps nothing contributes to the unity more than the IDF, the Israeli Defense Force, as almost all young people serve in some capacity. Military service is the great common denominator.

There is so much in this book about this small nation which is eye-opening. There is also much here about our culture in America by comparison. Readers will be led to think seriously about the balance between individual rights and the collective responsibility of a people. Also, this book is a study on the importance of service to others in national strength.

Curt Finch Emerald Isle Books

Relax & Enjoy Tea for Two on Tuesday March 19

Circle Tuesday, March 19, on your 2024 calendar. It’s “Tea for Two Tuesday,” a relatively new holiday being celebrated all across America.

Bob Matthews of Rochester, N.Y., creator of the Holiday Insights website, said his team invented Tea for Two Tuesday in 2016 and determined that the holiday will be celebrated each year on the third Tuesday in March.

So, that makes it one of those “tricky holidays” with a date that moves around a little each year –like Thanksgiving.

“Tea for Two Tuesday invites two or more people to simply enjoy a cup of tea together,” Matthews said. “Tea is a very relaxing and soothing beverage” … and tea drinking is an even more pleasant experience when shared with others.

“We encourage you to have ‘a spot of tea’ with any number of people. Go ahead…make it a tea party. The more, the merrier.”

The song “Tea for Two” was written in 1924, so bring out the fine china this year to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the tune, composed by Vincent Youmans with lyrics by Irving Caesar, that was featured in the Broadway musical “No, No Nanette.” (One of the premier covers was released in 1955, sung by artist Doris Day.)

“The older we get, the more we turn to tea over coffee and other drinks,” Matthews added. “We encourage you to try different types of tea. There is no shortage of tea flavors, some have caffeine, and some are caffeine-free, the latter of which is best for evening consumption.”

Matthews even offers a “Tea for Two Tuesday” quotation attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. She commented: “A woman is like a tea bag – you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.”

That could surely ignite a lively “tea leaves” conversation.

The Holiday Insights website offers a wealth of information about the origin of tea as a beverage that is quite healthy and good for you. Tea contains no calories, sodium, fat or sugar. Tea has a bunch of antioxidants that help to lower the risk of cancer, heart attack, stroke and diabetes. Tea evens helps fight cavities.

People in China began drinking tea 5,000 years ago. More than 3 billion tons of tea are produced commercially each year, with China accounting for about half of the total production. Trailing China in volume are India, Kenya, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. There are four general categories of tea, with black tea being the most plentiful, followed by green tea. White tea makes up a small percentage of the total along with Oolong tea. (The name “oolong” comes from the Chinese words “wu long,” which

means “black dragon.”)

The leading countries in tea consumption are Turkey, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Pakistan and Iran. The United States is 35th on the list.

But the biggest tea party the world has ever seen occurred on Dec. 16, 1773, in Colonial America.

On that night, all the fish in Boston Harbor, Mass., had to dodge 342 chests of imported tea from the British East India Company that were dumped overboard – approximately 45 tons

of tea leaves, which would carry a value of well over $1.7 million in today’s dollars.

The “Boston Tea Party” was the first blatant act of defiance to British rule by the colonists who vehemently opposed “taxation without representation.”

The rebellion was organized by the Sons of Liberty faction of revolutionists, who included prominent patriots such as Samuel Adams, Benedict Arnold, Patrick Henry, John Hancock and Paul Revere. Iced tea drinkers invited to raise a glass on June 10

Drinkers of iced tea get their day in the sun on Monday, June 10, when America observes “National Iced Tea Day.”

One of the cloudy mysteries associated with the beverage that deserves further exploration, however, is: Who invented iced tea?

Englishman Richard Belchynden gets a lot of votes. He was a tea grower and merchant who was assigned by the British government to promote English teas at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, Mo.

On a sweltering August day, not a soul was interested in stopping by his booth for a cup of hot tea. Belchynden reportedly dropped ice into his tea, and the drink became an instant success. Ta da. It’s a nice story, but Belchynden wasn’t the first.

The earliest cookbook reference to iced tea is found in “The Kentucky Housewife,” compiled in 1839 by Lettice Pierce Bryan of Lincoln County, Ky.

Her recipe for “Tea Punch” packed a punch. She wrote: “Make a pint and a half of very strong tea in the usual manner; strain it, and pour it boiling hot on one-and-a-quarter pound of loaf sugar. Add a half pint of rich sweet cream and stir in gradually a bottle of claret or champagne.” Serve entirely cold, in glass cups.

A nonalcoholic recipe for iced tea came from the 1876 edition of “Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping,” a collection of recipes from the women of the Marysville (Ohio) First Congregational Church. The editor was Estelle Woods Wilcox.

She said: For a perfect tea without the least trace of bitterness, put tea in cold water about eight hours before it is to

be used. “The delicate flavor of the tea and abundant strength will be extracted, and there will be not a trace of the tannic acid, which renders tea so often disagreeable and undrinkable.”

“Housekeeping in Old Virginia,” a cookbook compiled in 1877 by Marion Fontaine Cabell Tyree of Lynchburg, Va., is another early source.

Tyree was a great granddaughter of Virginia’s Patrick Henry, who helped organize the “Boston Tea Party” rebellion in 1773. Her iced recipe specified: Pour one quart boiling water and two teaspoonfuls green tea into teapot. Let stand about four hours. Strain, without stirring, pour into pitcher.

At teatime, Tyree said, “Fill goblets with ice, put two teaspoonfuls granulated sugar in each and pour tea over ice and sugar. A squeeze of lemon will make this delicious and healthful, as it corrects the astringent tendency.

The rise of sweet tea in the South was fueled by William B. Reilly of New Orleans, La., who launched the Luzianne brand of coffee in 1902. Thirty years later, Reilly Foods Company developed one of the first teas ever specially blended for pouring over ice.

“Luzianne was proud to help popularize iced tea as a cool way to beat the Southern heat,” said a company spokesperson. “Our reputation for clear, smooth-tasting, refreshing iced tea was soon established across the South.”

Access the family-owned business recipe for sweet tea at luzianne.com. All you need are four family-sized tea bags, a gallon of spring water and a cup of sugar. The trick is knowing which ingredients to combine when.

For a kick, add lemon or orange zest, lemon juice or lemonade while the tea is warm – or spike it with fruit juices or bourbon, tequila or vodka. Douse with a sprinkle of sparkling water to make a refreshing party punch.

Yes. We think Lettice Pierce Bryan was on the same page with her Tea Punch in 1839. Bless her heart.

Mike Wagoner

I want you to know how much we appreciate the work you did to make our bathroom a reality. Your work was truly exceptional but more than that, we appreciate how you truly wanted to please us by going over the job until we were satisfied. Thanks again - George W. (Beaufort) Custom

As out-of-state owners of a beachfront property on Emerald Isle, Artistic Kitchen & Bath was recommended by our property management company. It was great to find an outfit that offered "one-stop" shopping for everything we needed. We upgraded and completely renovated our kitchen, wet bar and five bathrooms, including custom cabinets, hardware, countertops, tiling, flooring, appliances and bathroom fixtures, plus all the plumbing, electrical and painting needs. - Kyle P.

at the aquarium

Get Hooked

Fish on! Sign up now for the annual Get Hooked Fishing School on March 16. The popular one-day course features in-depth presentations by experienced anglers and local charter captains on many aspects of the sport. Additional demonstrations will feature fly-tying or instructions on helpful knots.

The school offers an opportunity to gather a lot of information in one day in one place. The action-packed event includes participation in up to six sessions of instruction, a catered lunch, giveaways, and drawings for some great fishing gear.

Get Hooked is from 8am to 4:30pm and all sessions are at the Aquarium. Advance registration is required, and space is limited. The fee is $60 per person and $54 for Aquarium members. Registration is also accepted by phone and at visitor services at the Aquarium.

Speakers for the 2024 Get Hooked Fishing School include Captain Rick Patterson - Fishing Inshore Structure, Captain Noah Lynk - Nearshore Variety, Captain John Mauser - Saltwater Fly Fishing, Captain Jake Geary - Fishing Artificial Reefs, Captain Joe Tunstall - Shallow water Sight Casting, Captain Mitchel BlakeYear-Round River Systems, Captain Josh Sutton - Trophy Speckled Trout, Captain Jeff Cronk - Red and Black Drum.

Visit the website for more information and to register: www. ncaquariums.com/pks-special-events.

Spring Things

Nothing says spring quite like getting outside when plants are blooming, and birds are calling. The Aquarium Spring Breaks Camps allow children to get outside for some fun and learning during their spring break. Registration is online only, and camp fills up quickly. Follow the link to see available dates. There are spots still available for grades 4-6.

Participants enjoy outdoor activities, animal interactions, discovery labs, and behind-the-scenes action. Participants must bring their own lunch and bottled water and wear closed-toe shoes. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather. Camps are held 8:30am- 2:30pm. Price is $40 or $36 for members. Camp payment is due in full once registration is confirmed. www. ncaquariums.com/pks-camps.

Other spring activities include daily programs at the Aquarium. Watch staff feed animals in different habitats, learn about the sharks in the 306,000-gallon Living Shipwreck habitat, and watch the otters interact with enticement items. A schedule of events can be found at www.ncaquariums.com/free-programs-pks.

Swamp and Savannah Art Exhibit

An art exhibition in the Spadefish Gallery at the Aquarium features photography and poetry by Melissa Dowland, a true naturalist who leads Teacher Education at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

The exhibit, called Savannah & Swamp, features Dowland’s photography of many beautiful places across the state and beyond. The photographs on display capture the nature found at many North Carolina State Parks such as Merchants Millpond, Jones Lake, and Lake Waccamaw, along with National Wildlife Refuges and National Forests.

Of the exhibit, Dowland writes, “The word ‘savannah’ evokes images of African grasslands and grazing zebras. ‘Swamp’ brings to mind murky waters, alligators, and the whine of mosquitoes. Yet both savannahs and swamps are common in eastern North Carolina and are places of exquisite beauty and stunning biodiversity.”

“These areas hold a wild beauty on scales both grand and minute,” Dowland writes and portrays that sentiment in the detailed images of sundews, luna months, warblers, and landscapes of vast treecovered swamps. The exhibit will be up for the next few months.

Plant a Tree, Save an Island

When W.B. “Bill” McLean first visited the western end of Bogue Banks, he was most impressed by the richness of the maritime forest and the deep emerald-green canopy of trees. McLean would later purchase this land in the early 1950s for $350,000 with his partners George Spell, J.A. “Bus” Singleton, Hiram Grantham, and the Holding brothers. The gentlemen tossed around possible names including Gulf Stream Beach. The name that resonated and the one we know and love today, was Emerald Isle by the Sea, shortened now to Emerald Isle. Without that magnificent forest of native cedars, majestic water oaks, dogwoods, yaupon bushes and tall pines, our beloved name could have been much different. But have you ever pondered that to save our island, and keep our emerald-green hue, you might just need to plant a tree?

Old timers like me can remember watching two small islands, Dog and Cat Island, just off of 2nd Street in Bogue Sound, disappear after the hurricanes in the 1990s. The hurricanes destroyed the trees and then the root systems that were holding the sand and sediment in place could no longer effectively hold back the wind and tides. Gradually, these two beautiful, small islands diminished and then were gone.

Arbor Day is typically in April, but the time to start planning and planting your trees and shrubs is now in the early weeks of spring before the weather becomes too warm. When choosing which trees and shrubs to plant for sustainability, may I encourage you to consider native species? I have long been a fan of the work of North Carolina Sea Grant which is headquartered at North Carolina State University, with a multicampus program with offices in Wanchese, Morehead City, and Wilmington. Taking a collaborative approach to research, education, and outreach, one of their important tasks is ensuring healthy coastal ecosystems and resilient communities. For choosing proper plants for your coastal landscape there is no better resource than what these coastal scientists have recommended. Their website is excellent and informative: ncseagrant.ncsu.edu/ coastal-landscapes.

Science has demonstrated that native plants and trees are our best insurance for coastal resilience and are also vital for their role in performing services after hurricanes and severe weather to “stabilize sediments to reduce erosion and store surface water to minimize flooding.” Native plants are simply more viable in our harsh maritime environments. In many cases, non-native plants have proved to be invasive species that have done more harm than good to our coastal landscapes. In other instances, it just makes good sense to reintroduce native plants that had been replaced by trendy ornamentals that may do well in the Piedmont of North Carolina but are too frail for the coastal salt climate and sandy soil. Our wildlife is acclimated to our native plants for sustenance and refuge. From Sea Grant’s NC Coastal Landscaping booklet, “Shrubs and trees native to the coastal environment are more likely to withstand the effects of storms, because they are resistant to wind and floods. Native plants are well adapted to the sunlight, temperatures, precipitation, hydrology, salt and soils of the coastal region, and therefore generally do not require excessive irrigation or fertilizer.” I’d like to recommend one more excellent book, Seacoast Plants of the Carolinas. Paul Hosier, retired UNCW provost and a Coastal Landscapes Initiative (CLI) partner, is the author of the joint publication of the University of North Carolina Press and North Carolina Sea Grant.

Joyce Kilmer in her famous poem “Trees” penned, I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree. And then she concludes, Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree.

Only God can make a tree but you and I can plant one, or several, and help save our island for future generations to love and enjoy.

Julia Batten Wax Owner/Broker Emerald Isle Realty Jwax@eirealty.com

Julia Batten Wax Owner, Emerald Isle Realty

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Knoll Shores

Board Holds Productive Annual Retreat

The Pine Knoll Shores Board of Commissioners (BOC) held their annual retreat on February 1 – 2, at the Trinity Center’s Beach House to review the past year’s accomplishments, ongoing projects, and plans and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. We met with the chairpersons of our numerous citizen volunteer committees, boards, councils and commissions to review their progress, plans, and ways the Town can assist them in achieving their goals. We discussed a detailed Capital Improvement plan for the next five years. We also devoted some time to discussing a list of issues and concerns, brought forward by the Town Manager and Commissioners, in an attempt to clarify potential misunderstandings and reach common ground on processes and policies. This session on issues was animated, productive, and very open to what I refer to as “intellectual hospitality”, otherwise known as “agreeing to disagree,” in what was, more often than not, a very productive process.

While we had many accomplishments to be thankful for in the past year, I will only mention a few of the highlights here. First and foremost, we celebrated our 50th anniversary as a Town; we successfully recruited and hired a new Town Manager and made a number of other personnel and staffing changes; we completed a major review and update of our strategic plan; and we elected two new Commissioners. In other areas, we purchased a new fire truck, backhoe, and radios for our police/fire/ EMS departments. We installed a new septic system and equipment barn at Town Hall and put new roofs on Town Hall and the Public Safety Building. We also replaced water mains on the east end of town and rehabilitated one of our water wells; we installed storm drains in

several areas, secured easements for more storm water projects, and were awarded a Resilient Coastal Communities grant for construction of “nature-based” storm water controls. Not everything went according to plan. For example, we are continuing to work toward successful completion and adoption of a new Unified Development Ordinance that is taking more time than we originally expected (but it’s worth the extra time to get it right), and we are continuing to debate the controversial issues surrounding the construction of new sidewalk segments as we have been doing for many years now.

Our Strategic Planning Committee (SPC), under the leadership of departing Chairman (and new Commissioner) John Ferguson, and new Chairman Robert McClellon, completed a year-long update and revision of the Town’s Strategic Plan, that was adopted by the BOC at their February retreat. Our plan has seven strategic Areas: Fiscal Planning; Infrastructure; Public Safety and Disaster Planning; Sense of Community; Resilience; Natural Resources Management; and Managing Growth. The committee utilized a PESTEL analysis to examine and rank the potential threats our community may face in the coming years in each strategic area, from potential Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal unknowns and surprises. They then used this analysis to revise some of the objectives in each strategic area and devise recommended implementation goals for the years immediately ahead. These recommendations were presented and discussed with the BOC during the retreat. While space won’t allow me to list the details of the PESTEL analysis and Implementation Goals here, they are available on out town’s website (townofpks.com) in the documents library.

GET THE MOST FROM YOUR TIME ON THE ISLAND!

Mayor John Brodman

pks women's club

PKS Women's Club

This month we are excited to host our annual fashion show and luncheon on March 22, at the Country Club of the Crystal Coast. This is our principal fundraiser supporting the twelve plus local charities to whom we contribute. All the money we raise stays in Carteret County! Members will be modeling the latest fashions from Davis Beach Wear, The Posh Pelican, Tassels, and Z and Z Designs. Tickets are available at Spoondrift or call 252-808-7165. The silent auction is online and can be accessed at: new.biddingowl.com/ pkswc. Bid on unique items and experiences while helping those in need. As an example, Judy Davenport, member, shared a story with the group. She was soliciting contributions for the auction from a local restaurant. The owner was not there at the time so she talked to the manager and left the brochure hoping the restaurant would contribute. After reading the brochure, the manager approached her with a sealed envelope and said she wanted to personally contribute because in the past she had received help from the organizations we support. Inside the envelope was a crisp $100. We hope you support this worthy cause and make a difference in the community.

Last month we took a lively look back at all the ladies through the years who have made our club great as we celebrated Pine Knoll Shores Women’s Clubs’ 40th anniversary on Friday, February 23, 2024 at PKS Town Hall. We enjoyed refreshments, conversations, and camaraderie as we gathered to commemorate this milestone.

We were honored to have Betsy Mercer lead a program on Laughter Yoga. Laughing yoga can help reduce stress, promote a

greater sense of well-being, lower blood pressure, and help you connect with others. She led us in several activities which led to much laughter. She suggested we look for Laughter Yoga on the Youtube channel for more activities and information. The more you laugh, the better you feel!

Michelle Powers, member, selected The Founders of the Women’s Club as our famous women to celebrate. Verna Armstrong, Wanda Lattan, and Betty Hammon invited interested women to meet at Town Hall in 1984 to discuss the formation of a new civic organization. The Garden Club had been in existence since 1974, but as the town’s population increased it was determined that another club with different objectives could be supported. After all, not every woman likes to “play in the dirt”! These are the women who had the initiative to create an organization that helped us all to meet our neighbors, create a social network, learn about our community and improve our own knowledge while assisting our community in various ways through our philanthropic activities. Volunteerism and Philanthropy are central to the club’s continuing mission.

We welcome new members. Any woman who lives or works in Pine Knoll Shores is eligible to join, as is any woman in a nearby community that is not served by another women’s club. Our monthly meetings are usually held on the fourth Friday of each month at 10 a.m. If interested in finding our more about the club, we invite you to follow our Facebook page at facebook.com/PKSWC.

Brenda Sheppard

Below are our distribution sites for Island Review. If you have a suggestion, please email mark@ beachhousepubs.com or call 252-504-2344

Where can I find my Island review

MOREHEAD CITY

Atlantic Breeze

Banks Grill

Captain's Table

Carteret Health Care

Chalk & Gibbs *

Chamber of Commerce

Cox's

Crystal Coast Visitors Center

Downtown Morehead City

Landmark Sotheby’s*

Ginny Gordon's

Guthrie Interiors

McQueen's Interiors

William's Hardware

CAPE CARTERET

Cape Carteret Public Library

Cape Carteret Aquatic

Carolina Home & Garden

Lowes Foods*

Mac Daddy's

CEDAR POINT

Bogue House Restaurant

Cedar Point BP Grill*

SWANSBORO

Piggly Wiggly

Swansboro Chamber of Commerce

EMERALD ISLE

Advantage Coastal Realty*

Bluewater Realty*

BP Station

Century 21 - Coastland

Churchwell’s Jewelers

Dollar General*

Emerald Isle Books

Emerald Isle Insurance

Emerald Isle Parks & Rec

Emerald Isle Realty*

Emerald Isle Town Hall

Emerald Isle Welcome Center

Emerald Isle Wine Market

Food Lion*

Island Essentials

Islander Motel-Suites

Land’s End Michaelangelos*

Shorewood Realty

Snapperz*

Sound Ace Hardware

Spinnakers Reach*

Sun-Surf Realty

The Village Market*

Watson Matthews*

SALTER PATH TO PKS

Alberts Florals & Gifts

Big Oak Drive In*

Bogue Banks Public Library*

Dollar General*

Eastern Carolina Properties*

The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

Pine Knoll Shores Town Hall*

N.C. Aquarium PKS

Sav-A-Stop

Summerwinds

Whaler Inn Beach Club

ATLANTIC BEACH

A Place At The Beach

Al Williams Real Estate

Alan Shelor Real Estate*

Artistic Kitchen & Bath

Atlantic Beach Post Office*

Atlantic Beach Realty

Atlantic Beach Seafood

Atlantic Beach Town Hall

Atlantic Beach Town Park*

Bluewater Realty*

Cannon & Gruber

Dollar General*

Edgewater Linen

Food Lion*

Gull Isle Real Estate

Island Furniture

Kite’s Unlimited

MF Chappell Wine Merchant

Michaelangelo’s*

The Pool & Patio Store

Realty World First Coast

Southwinds

Spectrum Real Estate

Subtropics

Windows & More

*Location has a blue Beach House box outside!

Cheers to Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day and a pint of beer go hand in hand, whether you’re enjoying a backyard barbecue with friends and family or heading out for the night.

So what ale will you choose this St. Patrick’s Day?

According to Vine Pair, beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage in the world. The global beer market is valued at more than $790 billion.

Beer brand popularity depends on the system of measurement. Data from Brand Finance, a leading brand valuation consultancy firm, shows that Heineken is the most valuable beer brand in the world, followed closely by Corona Extra.

However, when utilizing the methodology of the popular beer app “Untapped,” which measures the number of times users have “checked in” with a particular beer, the most popular brew is different. In 2023, Guinness Draught earned the top spot, followed by Bud Light.

Again, measuring a different way, this time according to sales data available, and taking into consideration global sales by volume as estimated by GlobalData Consumer, Snow, a beer only sold in China, is the best-selling beer in the world. Snow sold 101.2 million hectoliters of beer in 2017, the most recent year for data. Budweiser came in second place at nearly half the volume sold (49.2 million).

Cheers to you this St. Patrick’s Day, no matter what brew you pick. We hope you have a wonderful holiday as the door to spring opens wide. And, of course, enjoy responsibly.

March 2024

Atlantic Beach

staying busy

BOARD

5 Planning Board, usually 1st Tuesday, 6pm, call 726-2121, town hall meeting room. 25 Town Council, usually 4th Monday, 6pm, town hall meeting room.

Indian Beach

13 Town Board, 2nd Wednesday, 5pm, town hall.

Pine Knoll Shores

5 Board of Adjustment, as necessary, 1st Tuesday, 9am. 7 Strategic Planning Committee, 1st Thursday, 2pm. 11 Fire/EMS Department, 2nd Monday, 7pm. 11 PKA, 2nd Monday, 9:30am, town hall. 12 PARC, meetings to be held on the 2nd Tuesday, 9am. 13 Board of Commissioners, 2nd Wednesday

18 PIKSCO, 3rd Monday, 5:30pm. 20 Community Appearance Commission, 3rd Wednesday, 9am. 26 Planning Board, 4th Tuesday, 5pm.

Emerald Isle

12 Town Board, 2nd Tuesday, 6pm, town board meeting room, 7500 Emerald Drive. 21 Business Assoc., 3rd Thursday, noon, EI Parks & Rec., 354-3424. 25 Planning Board, usually 4th Monday, 6pm, town board meeting room, 7500 Emerald Drive.

Around the County

19 Carteret County Republican Party, 3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm, CCGOP Headquarters, 5370K Brandywine Crossing Hwy 70, Morehead City, all Republicans welcome to attend, 247-5660, carteret.nc.gop.

28 Carteret County Democratic Party, 4th Thursday, 5pm, Promise Land Market, Morehead City, all Democrats invited to attend, carteretdemocrats.org.

EMERALD ISLE March 2024

Emerald Isle Parks & Recreation - All activities take place at the Community Center in Emerald Isle, unless otherwise noted. The Community Center’s hours are: Mon-Fri, 7:30am-7:30pm, Sat, 8:30am-3pm, closed Sunday. Call (252) 3546350 for more info. Be sure to visit our website www.emeraldisle-nc.org/eiprd.

Adult Programs

•AA: Wednesdays 6:30pm & Saturdays 6:30pm at town board meeting room.

•Art Club: Meets every Wed, 12-4pm at town board meeting room to critique, create and converse. All are welcome.

For a complete list of adult programs visit www.emeraldisle-nc.org/clubs.

Athletics (Fun for all ages!)

Open-Play Indoor Soccer: Mon 6-7pm, 12 and under, Wed 6-7pm, Fri 6-7pm, 16+

Open-Play Basketball: Tue 6-7pm - 16 & under, Sat 9-11:30am, age 12 & under, 11:30am-3pm, age 16 & up.

Open Indoor Volleyball: Thu 6-7pm, 16+

*UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, ALL ATHLETIC EVENTS COST $2 FOR NON-MEMBERS*

Fitness

The Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation offers a variety of fitness classes. Fees: Members $1/class, non-members $5/class (unless otherwise noted).

Fab, Fit & Fun: Mon & Fri 8am STEP Aerobics: Thu 8am

TABATA: Mon & Tue 5:30pm 20/20/20: Tue 8am

ZUMBA: Wed 8am POUND: Wed 9:30am

HIIT: Mon & Wed 12pm

Shotokan Karate: Tue & Thu 6:30pm & Sat 10:15am - Members $5 and NonMembers $10

Yoga Program Schedule

Taught by certified Yoga instructors on staff, these classes focus on basic Yoga postures & asana for the beginner; Fees: $2 members & $7 non-members (unless otherwise noted)

• Yoga: Mon 9:15am; Thu, 8am; Fri 9:15am

• Chair Yoga: Mon 10:30am & Thu 9:30am

• Gentle Yoga: Sat 9am

Special Events and Information

Mondays: Story Time and Pre-K Play. 9am-10am. We’ll have a fun story session in our classroom and afterwards, head over to our spacious gymnasium for open play. All children must be accompanied by an adult, as supervision is not provided. It’s a perfect opportunity for parents and kids to connect, socialize, and have fun together. Please bring any supplies needed such as diapers, wipes, bottles, etc. Call (252) 354-6350 for more details.

Fri. 15: Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival Preview. 3-8pm. At the Emerald Plantation, comeome ride the St. Patrick’s Festival amusement rides for one low price all evening! No food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, or alcohol sales on Friday night. Contact (252) 354-6350

Sat. 16: Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival. Emerald Plantation Shopping Center, 9am-6pm. Admission to the festival and parking are free. This year’s festival will feature over 75 arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, amusement rides, face painters, and many other fun, family-oriented activities. No pets on festival grounds. Main tent is open to 21 years and up, no strollers allowed in the beer tent. Contact (252) 354-6350 for more information

Sherry Stanley

919.794.1866 sherrys@bluewaternc.com

Susan Goines

252.728.0063 susang@bluewaternc.com

Bebbie Quinones

252.622.1404 bebbieq@bluewaternc.com

Candice Tirado

714.420.7412 candicet@bluewaternc.com

Beach Life Properties, or The Fab 4 as they like to call themselves, consists of four professional real estate agents with Bluewater Real Estate in Emerald Isle, NC. They are all long-time residents of Carteret County and know the beautiful Crystal Coast area intimately. They keep the highest level of integrity and commitment to their clients as well as maintain the highest level of professionalism in the home buying and selling process. The team has built their business on referrals, and commitment to the relationships they have built with their clients. Give one of us a call TODAY!

Come Celebrate St. Paddy's in E.I.

As the Mayor of Emerald Isle, I am delighted to share with you the wonderful experiences our town offers in March, a month that heralds the arrival of spring and brings a renewed vibrancy to our community.

March in Emerald Isle is a time of rejuvenation, where the natural beauty of our coastal town comes to life. The warmer weather and longer days are perfect for enjoying our stunning beaches, whether it’s for a peaceful stroll along the shore or for more active pursuits like kayaking and paddle boarding. The town’s parks and outdoor spaces begin to show their spring colors, offering settings for picnics, bird watching, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

A centerpiece of our March calendar is the St. Patrick’s Day Festival, scheduled for March 16, 2024. This festival,

held at the Emerald Plantation Shopping Center, features live music, amusement rides, arts and crafts vendors, and a variety of food and drink options. It’s a day for our community to come together in a festive atmosphere!

Beyond the festival, March is a month where we focus on strengthening the bonds within our community. We encourage residents and visitors to explore local businesses, from quaint boutiques to our renowned seafood restaurants, each offering a unique taste of Emerald Isle’s charm.

In closing, I invite you to experience all that Emerald Isle has to offer in March, and beyond. It’s a place where the beauty of the coast meets the warmth of a close-knit community, creating an environment that’s truly special.

THE MAGAZINE YOU LOVE - THE INFORMATION YOU NEED!

Have your favorite magazine for Bogue Banks property owners and residents delivered directly to your door each month.

For just $25 a year, we’ll drop a copy of the Island Review in the mail to you, ensuring that you don’t miss a beat. Simply fill out the form below and mail it in with your check for $25. Or better yet, call the office at 252-504-2344 to get started immediately with a credit card. NAME:

Mayor Jason Holland

staying busy SWANSBORO

March 2024

Swansboro Parks & Recreation

All activities take place at the Recreation Center (830 Main St Ext) in Swansboro, unless otherwise noted. The Recreation Center’s hours are: Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm, Sat, 8am-12pm, closed Sunday. Call (910) 326-2600 for more info. Be sure to visit our website at swansboro.recdesk.com to register for events.

Adult Programs

Onslow Senior Services Nutrition Site: Mon-Fri, 9am-12pm

Fitness Programs

POUND Fitness Class. Saturday’s 9-10am. Come get fit with Ripstix! Join us at the Swansboro Recreation Center for a 5-week Pound fitness class with OFFICIAL POUND Instructor Karen Daly. Pound is a fun, total body workout that fuses the best strength training, Pilates, and cardio moves through drumming exercise. The use of Ripstix, lightly weighted drumsticks, challenges the body’s stability and balance resulting in constant core activation. Register for the series for $25 or drop-in for $6 per session.

HIIT Bootcamp Fitness Class - March 2-23, 8-8:45am. Unlock Your Strength and Energy! Join Our 5-Week Series. Are you ready to take your fitness and energy levels to new heights? Our Saturday series, kicking off at 8am, is your ticket to improved mobility, increased strength, and a toned, revitalized you! Led by our Visiting Fit Coach trainer, each 45-minute session is designed to help you become the best version of yourself. Our program is your path to greater strength, improved energy, and a more vibrant you!

Open Play Pickleball Annual Registration 2024. The 2024 Pickleball Open Play Membership starts January, and runs until the end of the year. This is a casual and coed season perfect for any age or ability. The league will meet Monday through Saturday mornings from 8am to 12pm (spring/summer hours) and 9am to 1pm (fall/winter hours). $35 for resident and $40 for non-resident for the entire season, or drop-in fee of $5 for any one session.

Tai Chi Class Series. Join Swansboro Parks & Recreation for Tai Chi with instructor Sifu Dr. Harold McMillion for an 6-week series. Tai chi is a series of gentle physical exercises and stretches. Each posture flows into the next without pause, ensuring that your body is in constant motion. Tai chi is sometimes described as meditation in motion because it promotes serenity through gentle movements — connecting the mind and body. Ages 18+. $25 series registration.

Programs

Fri. 16: Music Therapy. 10:30-11:30am. Swansboro Parks and Recreation and Down Syndrome Network of Onslow and Carteret County are partnering to offer inclusive musical therapy sessions geared towards youth and young adults they are all FREE to attend! Sessions will be held at the Swansboro Recreation Center at 10:30am

Sun. 18: Fellowship Night. 6:30-7:30pm. This program welcomes adults of all abilities to come together for a fun evening with a rotating theme or activity scheduled every month. This program is geared towards adults with disabilities and will be held once a month as an after dinner/evening group. We extend this invitation to anyone who is in their senior year of high school and above. For more information, call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center, 830 Main St. Ext.

~Emerald Tidings~

Emerald Isle Holiday Decorations Initiative

In response to the desire to enhance Emerald Isle’s charm beyond the summer season, a committee was established to revitalize the town’s holiday decorations. Led by Steve Finch, retired Town Commissioner, and supported by local resident Irving Monclova’s initial funding, the committee comprises Lydia Lewis, Van Sutton, Angie Sutton, and Darcel Browning, all committed to realizing this vision.

Currently, the committee has secured substantial funding from generous donors, with the Town of Emerald Isle Board of Commissioners pledging to match these contributions throughout 2024. All funds raised will directly fund the acquisition of new decorations and infrastructure improvements, including expanded electrical connections in strategic locations. This long-term project aims to elevate the holiday ambiance for residents, property owners, and visitors, establishing Emerald Isle as a premier holiday destination.

Individuals and businesses are encouraged to contribute, regardless of the amount. As we enter a crucial fundraising phase for the 2024 holiday season, timely donations are essential to facilitate procurement and installation. We deeply appreciate your generosity and support toward this exciting endeavor for our community.

Please make checks payable to The Town of Emerald Isle and send them to: The Town of Emerald Isle, Attn: Laura Rotchford, 7500 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, NC 28594.

Adhering to Speed Limits: Safeguarding Emerald Isle’s Community

Emerald Isle boasts serene beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a vibrant community that welcomes visitors and locals alike. As we traverse its scenic roads, it’s crucial to remember the importance of adhering to speed limits. Speed limits aren’t just arbitrary numbers; they are vital safeguards for our community’s safety and well-being.

At the heart of Emerald Isle’s charm is its commitment to maintaining a family-friendly environment. As families enjoy a leisurely stroll or cyclists exploring the coastline, our streets are bustling with activity. By obeying speed limits, drivers actively contribute to the safety of everyone sharing our roads.

Exceeding speed limits not only endangers pedestrians, cyclists, and pets, it also puts fellow drivers at risk. In a community where families thrive and visitors seek solace, reckless driving has no place. Each mile per hour over the limit increases the likelihood of accidents and diminishes the precious sense of security we’ve cultivated in Emerald Isle.

Furthermore, adhering to speed limits aligns with our commitment to environmental stewardship. By driving at controlled speeds, we reduce fuel consumption and minimize harmful emissions, thus preserving the natural beauty that defines our beloved coastal town.

As responsible members of the Emerald Isle community, it’s incumbent upon us to lead by example. By obeying speed limits, we demonstrate our respect for our neighbors, our environment, and the spirit of camaraderie that defines our town.

The Town of Emerald Isle remains steadfast in its dedication to ensuring safe roadways for all. Through ongoing education and enforcement efforts, we strive to foster a culture of responsible driving and mutual respect among residents and visitors alike.

Let us embrace the shared responsibility of safeguarding our community’s well-being. Together, let’s pledge to honor speed limits, not just as rules to follow, but as a testament to our commitment to the collective safety and harmony of Emerald Isle.

In essence, driving within the speed limits isn’t just a legal obligation - it’s a moral imperative that reflects our dedication to preserving the essence of Emerald Isle for generations to come. Let’s keep our streets safe, our community vibrant, and our Emerald Isle cherished by all.

EI Coffee Press

We’re thrilled to introduce you to the brand-new “EI Coffee Press” – your go-to source for the updates, community stories, and information about our beloved Emerald Isle!

Keep an eye out for the paper edition of the “EI Coffee Press” at your favorite local businesses, and remember, your community stories are our stories.

Emerald Isle Yard Debris Collection Program

The Town of Emerald Isle is committed to maintaining a clean and beautiful environment for all its residents and visitors. As part of our ongoing efforts, we would like to remind everyone of our Yard Debris Collection Policy.

The Emerald Isle Public Works Department operates two knuckle boom collection trucks, five days a week. In 2023, the Yard Debris Team drove a total of 20,452 miles and made 35,283 residential stops. They secured 598 loads of material, totaling 2,691 tons of sticks, that will be chipped and recycled.

Where is the Knuckle Boom truck today? Public Works rolled out technology that gives Town residents a bird’s eye view of

where the yard debris trucks are along their routes. The system allows residents to view the truck routes and see when their yard debris may be picked up by Public Works staff. Depending on various factors, such as distance traveled and the size of yard debris piles, times may vary on a weekly basis. EIPW’s Yard Debris Tracker: www.emeraldisle-nc.org/230/Yard-Debris-Truck-Tracker

What are the yard debris guidelines? To maintain a clean and safe environment, property owners are asked to adhere to the following guidelines regarding yard debris collection:

Placement: Place yard debris at the curbside in front of your property, ensuring it does not obstruct traffic flow or interfere with utilities. Avoid placing debris under power lines, on water meters, or near mailboxes.

Vacant Lots: Yard waste from vacant lots cannot be collected by town staff. Property owners are responsible for the removal of yard waste generated from vacant lots they own. If the property owner of the vacant lot also owns a developed lot in Emerald Isle, he/she may place yard waste at the vacant lot to be picked up as long as it was not generated from the vacant lot.

Trimming Size: Trimmed trees and shrubs should not exceed six feet in length and should be piled for efficient collection. Loose leaves and grasses may be bagged in biodegradable bags.

Size Limit: Yard waste piles should not exceed 10x10x4 feet. Excess material will be left for the next collection cycle or should be removed by the homeowner or contractor.

No Co-mingling: Yard waste must not be mixed with building materials like landscape timbers or lumber.

Prohibited Disposal: Do not deposit yard debris into catch basins or manholes. Loose leaves or grasses should not be blown into stormwater systems or streets.

Illegal Dumping: Dumping yard waste illegally will result in prosecution.

Violations: Failure to comply may lead to temporary suspension of yard debris collection until violations are corrected.

For more information, visit: www.emeraldisle-nc.org/227/PublicWorks-Solid-Waste. Let’s work together to keep Emerald Isle clean and beautiful. Thank you for your cooperation.

Protecting Your Home from Unwanted Rodents

As residents of Emerald Isle, we cherish our coastal paradise and strive to keep our homes safe and comfortable. One challenge that many homeowners face, especially during colder months, is the intrusion of unwanted rodents. To help you safeguard your home, here are some valuable tips:

Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any openings where rodents could enter, such as gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and vents. Seal these openings using caulk or steel wool to prevent easy access for rodents.

Keep Food Secure: Store food in airtight containers, including pet food and birdseed. Rodents are attracted to accessible food sources, so keeping your pantry and kitchen tidy and organized will deter them from making themselves at home.

Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean up crumbs and spills, both inside and outside your home. Rodents are drawn to areas with food debris and clutter, so keeping your living spaces clean and clutterfree will make them less appealing to pests.

Trim Vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from your home to eliminate potential hiding spots and pathways for rodents to access your roof and attic.

Use Proper Storage: Store firewood and outdoor equipment at least 18 inches off the ground and away from the exterior of your home. Rodents often nest in stacks of wood and can easily transition from outdoor areas to the interior of your home if given the opportunity.

Schedule Regular Inspections: Consider scheduling professional

pest inspections on a regular basis to identify and address potential rodent infestations before they become serious problems.

By implementing these preventative measures, you can protect your home and family from the nuisance and potential health risks associated with unwanted rodents. Together, let’s ensure that Emerald Isle remains a pest-free haven for all its residents.

Fishing Tourney Scholarship Applications Available

The Emerald Isle Fishing Tournament has up to six scholarships available for area students who are pursuing a degree in Marine Sciences or Technologies.

These $3,000 scholarships are available to graduating seniors at Croatan, West Carteret, East Carteret and Swansboro high schools.

You can find the application details and materials on the Town’s website, or on the Emerald Isle Fishing Tournament website.

St. Patrick’s Festival Set to Return March 16

Gather your family, friends and best green attire - the Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival is slated to return on Saturday, March 16 at Emerald Plantation Shopping Center.

On this date, you can enjoy the 31st Annual St. Patrick’s Festival, which includes art and crafts vendors, nonprofits, food and drink vendors, a beer tent, amusement rides, live music and more! Please note, applications have closed for all event vendors.

On Saturday, amusement rides will be operating from 9 a.m. - 6 pm. In addition, food vendors, 90 arts and crafts vendors, beer garden and live entertainment will run from 10 am. - 5 p.m.

On Friday, March 15, join us for amusement ride armband night from 3- 8 p.m. There will be no food and drink vendors on this date.

Jr. Lifeguard Camp Registration Opens April 1

Are you interested in camp opportunities for your children through the Town of Emerald Isle? Registration for Jr. Lifeguard Camp opens April 1, followed by registration for Summer Day Camp on April 10.

Summer Day Camp is held through Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation and spots are awarded through a lottery system.

EI Ocean Rescue Lifeguard Applications Now Open

Do you have what it takes to be an Emerald Isle Ocean Rescue Lifeguard, or know someone who does?

Applications are now open for lifeguard positions in 2024. You can find the job description and application on the Town’s website. The Emerald Isle Fire Department will begin testing in January, and training will start mid-March. Lifeguards will be on the beach strand in phases, beginning April 1.

Beach Access Parking Permits Available Soon

Regional Beach Access Parking Permits for Emerald Isle taxpayers, and other select groups, will be available online starting March 1.

Beginning April 1, you will also be able to apply for these permits in person. Please note, due to high demand, same-day service may not be available.

Paid beach parking will begin on on April 15 and will run through September 15. You can find additional details about paid parking and these passes on our website.

Peanuts Shine in this Stir Fry Dish

Peanuts work well in sweet desserts and are commonly found in the form of peanut butter swirled with jelly atop bread for lunchtime sandwiches. However, peanuts can be an ingredient in savory dishes as well. In fact, peanuts often are included in the popular Thai dish “Pad Thai,” which is Thailand’s variation on a traditional Chinese stir-fry. It’s salty, sweet and often spicy. Try this version, courtesy of “300 Best Stir-Fry Recipes” (Robert Rose) by Nancie McDermott.

Pad Thai Serves 2 to 4

4 ounces dry rice noodles

1/4 cup chicken stock or water

3 tablespoons fish sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon hot pepper flakes

3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

1 tablespoon chopped garlic

4 ounces boneless pork or skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced

8 to 10 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 egg, beaten

1/2 cup chopped garlic chives or green onions

2 cups bean sprouts, divided

1/3 cup chopped roasted salted peanuts

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

4 lime wedges

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add noodles and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are softened but still firm. Drain, rinse well in cold water. Drain and set aside.

2. In a small bowl, combine chicken stock, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar and hot pepper flakes and stir well. Set aside.

3. Heat a wok or a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of the oil and swirl to coat pan. Add garlic and toss well, until fragrant, about 15 seconds.

4. Add pork, spreading into a single layer. Cook, undisturbed, until edges change color, about 1 minute. Toss well. Add shrimp and toss well. Cook, tossing often until shrimp are pink and firm and pork is cooked through, 1 to 2 minutes. Add noodles and cook, tossing often and pulling to separate noodles, for 1 minute.

5. Add chicken stock mixture, pouring in around sides of pan. Cook, tossing often, turning and scraping noodles to heat and soften them, until noodles curl up and are tender and shrimp are cooked through, 1 to 2 minutes more. Add an additional 1 to 2 tablespoons of chicken stock or water as needed to keep noodles from sticking or burning.

6. Push the noodles to one side and add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add egg and swirl to expose to hot pan. Cook, undisturbed, until edges have begun to set, about 15 seconds. Cook, stirring often, until egg is softly scrambled but still very moist, about 1 minute.

7. Add garlic, chives and 1 cup of the bean sprouts and cook, tossing often, until they have begun to wilt, about 1 minute more. Add peanuts and lime juice and toss well. Transfer to a serving platter. Place the remaining bean sprouts and lime wedges on one side. Serve hot or warm, mixing in the raw bean sprouts and squeezing a little lime juice over the noodles just before eating.

Preparing for Nesting Season

As we continue to flip over our calendars in 2024, March brings with it a time of preparation for the Emerald Isle Sea Turtle Patrol! Sea turtle nesting season begins on May 1 and runs through August 31. In order to have everything and everyone ready to go May 1st the sea turtle program is in full force preparation mode!

Our program this year will consist of about 300 volunteers covering the 13+ miles of beaches here in Emerald Isle. At this time, our volunteer list is full, and we are on a waitlist for those wishing to participate in the program. In early March, the Nest Response Team, and program director Dale Baquer will attend the state meeting to learn updated policies and procedures on sea turtles, volunteer programs as well as statistics from last season. It is always an exciting time, seeing how conservation efforts are improving the lives of the majestic sea turtles that grace our beaches every summer.

March 16th, EISTP will have a booth at the Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Day Festival. Please take time to stop by our booth, learn a little about sea turtles, pick up a long-sleeved sea turtle shirt, or purchase raffle tickets for the beautiful gifts we will have to win! Other ways you can support the sea turtle patrol during the spring months include, making a monetary donation (www.

eiseaturtlepatrol.org/donations or mailing a donation to Emerald Isle Sea Turtle Patrol, 312 West Firetower Rd, Peletier, NC 28584). Help us pick up the trash found on the beach, prior to May 1st, we do not have volunteers walking the beach every morning, with the wind, trash can unintentionally wind up on the beach, you can help us keep it out of the ocean by picking it up if you spend time on the beach. With the up tick of visitors, comes the increased holes dug on the beach. These holes are a hazard to not only sea turtles, but emergency personnel vehicles, humans and dogs alike. Please help us remind everyone that you are welcome to dig holes, but please fill them in when you are finished having fun!

Lastly, as always, if you see a stranded sea turtle, injured bird or animal, please reach out to the EISTP and Shore Bird Rescue Team! Our volunteers work hard to make Emerald Isle a wonderful place for humans and creatures alike. You can find us on Facebook at (www. facebook.com/EISTP) Shore Bird Response Team can be reached at 252-723-7487. For sea turtle strandings reach out to EI Police department non-emergency number at 252-354-2021.

Jami Thomas

81 Rehabilitated Turtles Released

Fort Macon and Cape Hatteras, NC: The North Carolina Aquariums were thrilled recently to release a large number of rehabilitated coldstunned sea turtles from December and January stranding events thanks to U.S. Coast Guard Stations Hatteras Inlet and Fort Macon.

On Jan. 30, Station Hatteras Inlet released 22 rehabilitated sea turtles from the Sea Turtle Assistance & Rehabilitation (STAR) Center at the N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island by Station Hatteras Inlet. These recovered patients were small, juvenile Kemp’s ridley and green species.

On Feb. 12, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Richard Snyder released 59 turtles as part of their cruise from Station Fort Macon. The healthy turtles were transported to Station Fort Macon thanks to the help of volunteers from the Network for Endangered Sea Turtles (N.E.S.T.) and the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (KBSTRRC) along with biologists from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Rehabilitated turtles from both the N.C. Aquariums and KBSTRRC were released.

The 59 sea turtles released Monday included N.C.’s most common species: loggerhead, green, and Kemp’s ridley. Most of these turtles were brought to rehabilitation centers because of cold-stunning, which occurs when the water temperature drops quickly before the turtles can migrate to warmer water. This condition primarily affects juveniles of the species.

The release made room in the Aquarium facilities as they continue to rehabilitate cold-stunned turtles. Presently the NC Aquariums are caring for 62 cold-stunned patients with 41 at the STAR Center, 15 at the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and six at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

Sea turtles strand on North Carolina beaches throughout the year. If you find a stranded sea turtle in North Carolina, call 252-241-7367 or your local stranding response team.

Crewmembers prepare to release two juvenile Kemp's ridley sea turtles into warm water (above), along with a small green sea turtle (left). U.S.C.G Cutter Richard Snyder photo.

Emerald Isle Sea Turtle Patrol

Eagerly Preparing for Spring

To me, March seems to be a transitional month. Some days it feels like spring and the next day it feels like we’re back in the dead of winter. It has been a long time since most gardeners have been out digging in the soil, primping the bushes, or preparing to plant. We want to get back out there now and do something, anything in the yard! Here are a few things to do when you have that itch to make preparations for spring.

Lawn weed control. I’m getting more and more questions about how to control weeds without using chemicals. So aside from spraying those winter weeds with a lawn weed control product to get them out of the lawn, maybe try pulling a few of the larger ones out of the ground. A hand trowel or a weed puller can be very handy for getting out weeds with a long taproot. Push the tool into the ground an inch or so from the crown of the plant and then rock it back to loosen the soil under the plant to make it easier to pull it out of the ground with as much of the root as possible. Weeds that have shallow roots like chickweed or hop clover should be easy to pull out of the soil, but there are often so many of them that it can be daunting. Keep at it and one by one they will all come out.

Another method of lawn weed control that I read about in a study done by some researchers in Florida is to top dress the lawn with compost in March and again in May. Top dressing is applying a thin

(1/4 to 1/2 inch) layer of compost over the entire lawn area. It’s not an easy task. I’ve used a wheelbarrow to move the compost from the back of my truck to the area where it needs to be applied and then spread it as best I can while removing it from the wheelbarrow. It’s important to use a leaf rake to spread it out uniformly over the area to work it down into the canopy of the lawn and to hopefully create an even covering of the area. The study showed that not only did it help to reduce summer weeds, but adding the compost also helped the grass to come out of dormancy a little quicker and it was greener and thicker the following summer. If you have the time, it might be worth the effort. If you use this method, let me know what your results are.

Starting seeds indoors. I wrote an entire article about this last year, but it’s worth mentioning. If you start some seeds indoors, it’s important to read up on how long it might take to get the seed to the point where it’s ready to move outside into the garden. Starting seeds allows you to choose from a wider variety of plants than the ones that might be available in the garden center. For tomatoes and peppers it takes about 6 to 8 weeks to get the plant from the seed planting date to where the plant is ready to go outside in the garden. It’s not an easy thing to do to keep the seeds from stretching indoors and then acclimating them to the outdoors, but definitely worth the

Shawn Banks, County Director N.C. Cooperative Extension

attempt.

Get Stepping. It’s a good time to take a walk and check out some of our nature trails in the county to see what’s happening in nature. When the wind isn’t blowing, I enjoy taking a walk and checking out what might be blooming along the trail. There are so many different environments to visit in the county that there is bound to be something in bloom. Small trees like Carolina cherry-laurel, black cherry, or even blueberry plants should be blooming at this time of the year. It’s always the unexpected blooms that are the most fun to see as I walk through the woods, over the dunes, or near the marsh. There is usually a plant I’ve never noticed before that seems to scream, “Look at me, I’m pretty today.” Escaping into nature is also a good way to lower blood pressure after working on a tax return or paying bills. Who doesn’t need a good relaxing walk in nature every now and then.

One last thing. I’ve heard a lot of people say that Good Friday is the time to start planting. If that is the case, then with Good Friday falling on March 29th this year, March is a good month to prepare the vegetable garden for planting. Remove any weeds, work in some compost, plan where everything is going to grow and figure out where to get some excellent plants or seeds. I prefer to wait until closer to the middle or end of April to plant my summer vegetables, but I learned many years ago that local wisdom is often correct when it comes to growing vegetable crops.

Whatever you decide to do, remember that March temperatures may be up and down like a roller coaster at an amusement park, but spring is right around the corner.

property watch

ATLANTIC

Brian and Jane Rollins to Phillip Piaski, 168 Morris Drive, $65,000.

Carol and Edwin Salter, and Rena Bogle and Edwin Salter, Jr. to Crystal Goodwin, 127 Salter Lane, $139,000.

ATLANTIC BEACH

Charles Dixon to Russell Lupton, Jr., 1918 W. Fort Macon Road, $120,000.

Ngoc Pham and Tien Le to Pamela and Andrew Davis, III, 102 Dogwood St., $330,000.

Gwendolyn and Elbert Pitt, Jr. to Young Wallen Properties III, LLC, 301 E. Commerce Way Road, $335,000.

James and Heather Cole to Pamela and James Poole, III 121 Pelican Drive, $391,000.

Intrepid Endeavors, LLC to Derek Delcastilho and Season Atkinson, 1904 E. Fort Macon Road, $392,500.

William and Allison Taylor, and Edward and Greer Taylor to Richard Conaboy and Ashley Gilbert, 427 W. Fort Macon Road, $395,000.

Lawrence and Melodie Brady to James and Jo-Ann Willams, 2308 W. Fort Macon Road #101H, $425,000.

Jerry Owens to Karla Chaves, Amanda Flores, Samuel Chavez, and Gregory High, 2106 E. Fort Macon Road, $500,000.

Sands Villas 417, LLC to William Howell and Evelyn

Lawrence, 1400 E. Fort Macon Road, $650,000.

12 Ocean Drive, LLC to Samuel and Bonnie Anderson, and Scott Anderson, 108 W. Terminal Blvd., $765,000.

12 Ocean Drive, LLC to Stephen and Sheldon Barr, 108 W. Terminal Blvd., $756,000.

Steven Auerbach and Elyssa Bolton to Philip and Kimberly Hoft, 239 Old Causeway Road, $900,000.

Percy and Laura Lee to Justin and Anna Danner, 247 Moonlight Drive, $1,700,000.

BEAUFORT

James and Marsha Wester, Monica Ruiz and Jose RuizCorejeo, Velvet and Justin Lile, Crystal Arnold, Brittany and Matthew Bredbenner, and Clay Arnold to Velvet and Justin Lile, 303 & 309 Anchor Road, $14,000.

Pelsang, LLC to John Morrisey, 205 Jonaquins Drive, $32,500.

Leslie and Jeanne Burnbach to Robert Garris and Regina Szommer, 206 Jonaquins Drive, $45,000.

Kameron Gwynn and Alisa Macon to Bridgewater Phase 2, LLC, 661 Hwy 101, $70,000.

Kross Properties, LLC to Brian and Tanya Hoy, 173 Garbacon Drive, $100,000.

James and Ann Sweetman

to Sankar and Srilakshmi Varanasi, 299 Garbacon Drive, $135,000.

Michael and Lynn Carraway to Kimberly Stone, 1397 South River Road, $138,000.

KC Rental Properties, Inc. to Kristopher Cummings, II, 796 Laurel Road, $150,000.

Blue Treasure, LLC to Nathaniel Cohen, 553 Avocet Drive, $190,000.

Shawn and Heather Webster to William Mutschler, 159 Heron Point Road, $215,000.

Louis and Kimmi Hallow to William Maloney, 201 Gatsey Lane, $285,000.

Stephen Hamilton to Jonathan Besch, 610 Craven St., $292,000.

Dustin and Taylor Wilson to Denise and Demetiris Collins, 219 Jonaquins Drive, $335,000.

Trudy and Ernest Parker, III to George and Sandra Wheatly, 205 Ash Lane, $350,000.

Fred Crumpton to Hewson Homes, LLC, 137 S. River Drive, $420,000.

Streamline Developers, LLC to Robert and Barbar Chappetta, 171 Freedom Park Road, $423,500.

Patricia Siehien to Sandra and Robert Skirving, 401 Taylorwood Drive, $527,000.

Mary and James Rose, Jr. to Linda Wilkes, 222 Taylorwood Drive, $529,000.

Theodore and Bonnie Bubetsky to Partlo Garner, LLC, 106 River Drive, $585,000.

Donald and Sybil Rahilly to Caviston Group South, LLC, 492 Sandy Point Drive, $1,100,000.

BOGUE

Shelly Point Associates

Limited Partnership to David and Deborah Compton, 180 Hunting Bay Drive, $90,000.

Marcelen Pinion to Kenneth Kulp, 476 Bogue Loop Road, $375,000.

CAPE CARTERET

Richard Farrington, III to M & K Coastal Properties, LLC, 207 Club Point Drive, $160,000.

Richard and Kari Emory to Lucia Lento, 209 Neptune Court, $400,000.

Paula and Daniel Kornegay, Jr. to N & M Rental Properties, LLC, 312 Dolphin St., $408,000.

Jason and Leslie Muse to Mark and Jaime Melito, 207 Bogue Sound Drive, $495,000.

CEDAR ISLAND

Russell and Susan Carter to North Bay Group, LLC, 3191 Cedar Island Road, $125,000.

CEDAR POINT

Cedar Point Developers, LLC to Horizons East, LLC, 102 Firefly Circle, $82,500.

Bogue Banks & area property transfers as recorded at the Carteret County Registrar of Deeds during JANUARY 2024

Cedar Point Developers, LLC to Seventy West Builders, Inc., 213 Coastline Circle, $82,500.

Kirsten and Max Evans to Joanne and Randy Stallings, 110 Casey Court, $155,000.

John Kinsey, Jr., and Robert and Blakely Kinsey to Katherine Gourley, 188 Cedar Point Blvd., $290,000.

Julie Anderson to Frederick and Jackie Hoffman, 119 Holland Farm Road, $390,000.

Marcela and Michael Bojtos to George and Sheri Lamont, 222 Royal Oaks Court, $395,000.

American Commercial Properties, LLC to Daniel and Jacqueline Wort, 103 Hope Town Court, $620,000.

Seventy West Builders, Inc. to Ronnie and Kimberly Jones, 247 Coastline Circle, $624,000.

Mary Jacocks and JoAnn Kilday to Patrick and Roxann Davidson, 304 Shoreline Drive, $655,000.

John Kinsey, Jr., and Robert and Blakely Kinsey to Katherine Gourley, 186 Cedar Point Blvd., $704,000.

Nashmegha, LLC to Cedar Point Property Holdings, LLC, 605 Cedar Point Blvd., $740,000.

DAVIS

Kathy and Gary Peak, Sr. to Edward Williamson, Jr., 239

Horseshoe Road, $25,000.

EMERALD ISLE

Rosemary Minton to AV Property Investment, LLC, 111 Fawn Drive, $98,000.

Donna Sutton to Wetherington Investments, LLC, 310 West Warren Drive, $233,000.

Michael and Llewellyn Peoples to Hosey Ice, LLC and Blue Dahlia Investments, LLC, 5714 Emerald Drive, $400,000.

Devin and Morgan Williams to Erik and Jana Askeland, 9201 Coast Guard Road #B205, $560,000.

Pappys New Nests, LLC to Kenneth Blythe, 209 Stroud St., $572,000.

Scott and Cheryl Culver to James and Kristen Gerhart, 2807 Pier Pointe Drive #A1, $600,000.

Laurie and Eric Wainwright to Gonde Holdings, LLC, 5407 Sunset Lane, $625,000.

David and Nicole Klein to Eric and Janet Robinson, 115 Deer Horn Drive, $750,000.

Stanley Property Group, LLC to Jeffrey and Sheri Rice, 202 Channel Drive, $825,000.

Camellot III, LLC to D & S East, LLC, 201 Islander Drive #B2, $850,000.

Eric and Suzette Dowling to David and Karen Sampson, 6413 Sea Crest Court, $1,132,500.

Koral Properties, LLC to Remarque Home Builders, LLC, 601 Ocean Drive, $1,200,000.

Richard Lewis and Elizabeth Pemberton to John and Dina Foster, 8503 W. Oceanview Drive, $1,200,000.

John and Barbara Watkin to Adam and Ngoc Hulbig, 9306 Ocean Drive, $1,400,000.

Stephen and Denise Stefano to Paul Musco, Jr., 104 Brigantine Court, $1,550,000.

Sharon Dixon and Jacqueline Brooks to Julie and John Thomas, III, 7330 Sound Drive, $1,800,000.

Coastal Land Ventures, Inc. to Bell Cove, LLC, 9104 & 9106 Coast Guard Road, $3,425,000.

Kaleo Prime, LLC to Marcus Osterhoudt, 3107 Ocean Drive, $3,450,000.

HARKERS ISLAND

Patricia Testa to Rushing Properties, LLC, 102 Harkers Point Road, $235,000.

Patricia Testa to Rushing Properties, LLC, 104 Harkers Point Road, $250,000.

Suzanne and James Jablonski to William Mutschler, 107 Beacon St., $414,000.

Parker Enterprises of Carteret County NC, LLC to Rocky and Brenda Best, 1016 Island Road, $550,000.

INDIAN BEACH

David and Mary Phillips to William and Margaret Faulkenberry, 1701 Salter Path Road #301H, $615,000.

Chris and LeAnne Avery to James and Elizabeth Howell, 1701 Salter Path Road #202C, $685,000.

MARSHALLBERG

Travis Cox to Stephen Hamilton, 260 Goose Pond Road, $130,000.

Thomas Kirk, II to Juliana and Shannon Inman, Jr., 260 Goose Pond Road, $150,000.

MOREHEAD CITY

Seagirt Properties, LLC to BWFW, LLC, 1019 N 20th St., $7,000.

Donald and Linda Small to John McMullen, Jr., 1104 Arendell St., $65,000.

Marks Mansfield Construction, LLC to Brady and Virginia Rodgers, 1118 Blair Farm Pkwy., $100,000.

Leon Clay to Bobby and Tina Hersinger, 419 Oakmont Drive, $105,000.

Effie Hall and Nancy Shoush to Amanda Demchik, 214 Dorcas Drive, $152,000.

Sanchez Industries, LLC to Jennifer Garner, 3905 Guardian Ave., $153,000.

Creek Fever II, LLC to Daniel and Lisa Inglis, 3905 Guardian Ave., $164,000.

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Samuel Boyd to Jason Morton, 4108 Gordon Court, $180,000.

Katherine Garcia to Sheila Johnston, 3200 Crystal Oaks Lane, $185,000.

Aleshia Loyd to Susan Johnson, 404 Penny Lane #F, $190,000.

BWFW, LLC to TP Storage 101, LLC, 1017 N 20th St., $250,000.

Kyle and Michaela Fox to No Quarter Investments, LLC, 3207 Old Gate Road, $262,500.

Max and Jorinda Murphy to Gary and Natasha Gooding, 130 Old Murdoch Road, NEW179 Brooks Ave., $280,000.

Rebecca Thornley to Gordon Yowell and Donna Dimatteo, 515 Village Green Drive #B, $288,000.

Jill Wall to Monica Greene, 919 Harrell Drive, $290,000.

John and Julie McBarron to Dance Arts Studio Academy of Performing Arts of Morehead City, LLC, 123 Bonner Ave., $295,000.

Malen Wilson to Heritage Investments of the Coast, LLC, 1903 Arendell St., $325,000.

Steven and Pamela Taylor to Michael and Melba Barton, 3724 Kenzie Court, $340,000.

Daisy Casey to Alexander Jacobs, 116 Bay Club Circle, $385,000.

Mark Brennesholtz to Walter Davis, 211 Reserve Green Drive, $385,000.

Brian and Sandra Deuel to Lawrence and Milena Kilgore, 1918 Kingfisher Drive, $449,000.

Willie and Peggy Tyndall to Patrick Nichols and Michelle Koons, 410 Oakmont Drive, $470,000.

Christopher and Nola Higgs to Chauncey Leggett IV and Jacquelin Jenkins, 211 Mansfield Pkwy., $498,500.

Beverly Pham and Phuc Nguyen, and Cam Huynh to Angelia King, 1928 Snowy Egret Drive, $570,000.

William and Kaitlyn Gallagher to Michael Deweese, 3709 White Drive, $585,000.

Martha and John Sherman, Jr. to Eva and Thomas Higgins, 150 Lands End Court #B31, $850,000.

Edward and Anita Griffiths to Mechworks Mechanical Contractors, Inc., 5447 Hwy 70, $900,000.

Bell Investment Group, LLC to Steven Pittel and Roxanne Isaacson-Pittel, 4705 S. Shore Drive, $1,050,000.

Stephen and Sandra Corman to 128 Edwards, LLC, 130 Edwards Drive, $1,750,000.

ORP Galantis Properties, LLC to Retreat at Morehead City, LLC, 500 Friendly Road, $2,920,000.

NEWPORT

David Bailey to Ronald Settle, 719 Mill Creek Road, $9,000.

Corlan Properties, LLC to Richard Baur, 194 Gray Road, $35,000.

Corlan Properties, LLC to Charles and Julia Strange, 128 Gray Road, $40,000.

Anchor Homes, LLC to Harlie and Justin Farrell, 201 Bogue Carrier Court, $43,000.

Sheryl Hayes to Eva Jones, 118 Backfield Drive, $58,000.

Wayne and Sara Dodson to Alexandra Dodson, 1508 Haskett St., $70,000.

Goddard & Peterson, PPLC to Gary Gooding, 2537 Mill Creek Road, $112,000.

Mobeco, LLC to Edward and Anita Griffiths, 2617 W. Forest Drive, $220,000.

Beverly Pham and Phuc Nguyen to Christian Corbitt, 106 Ole Field Circle, $280,000.

Streamline Developers, LLC and Palm Adventures, LLC to Abdelsalam Alnimer, 745 Cannonsgate Drive, $285,000.

Trumaine and Latoyia Collins to Edward and Anita Griffiths, 306 Carrie Court, $285,000.

D. R. Horton, Inc. to Judy Svendsen, 140 Bur Oaks Blvd., $298,500.

D. R. Horton, Inc. to Ryan and Christy Adkins, 152 Bur Oaks Blvd., $352,000.

Nila and Lawrence Winder to David and Joy Stinnett, 404 Waverly Court, $400,000.

Bruce and Ellen Brotzman to Willie Wall, 315 Oxton Place, $450,000.

Tina and Chester Pittman, Jr., Kimberly and Chester Pittman, III, and Andrew Pittman to Clifton Gurganus and Teresa Matias, 425 Old Swansboro Road, $495,000.

RHC Custom Construction, Inc. to Cameron Leudesdorf and Haleigh Robinson, 204 Blue Heron Drive, $500,000.

Danny and Sheila Stevenson to Andrew Law and Jessica Yuhas, 117 Gull Harbor Drive, $550,000.

Jason and Leia Hall to Lois and Paul Holliday, 405 M & J Court, $585,000.

Anthony and Kirstie Corsan to Chip and Sharon Lofton, 108 Mallard Court, $615,000.

Streamline Developers, LLC to Craig Chwojdak and Judy Gray, 215 Colleton Square, $889,000.

Harriette McIver to Bruce and Ellen Brotzman, 107 Live Oak Road, $940,000.

Christopher and Lindsay Huneycutt to Steven Morton and Christine Johnson, 620 Cannonsgate Drive, $991,500.

PINE KNOLL SHORES

M. Douglas Goines to Allison and Curt Lassiter, Jr., 130 Salter Path Road, $294,500.

David and Ewa Silver to Elizabeth and Andrew Thomas, Jr., 273 Salter Path Road, $380,000.

Ronald Manion, Jr. to Kathleen Young and Megan Kratochwill, 109 Oakleaf Drive, $610,000.

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Pamela and Donald Bailey, Jr. to Helen and Harold Russell, Jr., 570 Coral Drive, $785,000.

Clare Winslow to Eric Mazur and Janet Reimer, 128 Oakleaf Drive, $835,000.

Allison and Carroll Oglesby, III to David and Jennifer Stone, 545 Salter Path Road, $880,000.

SMYRNA

Patrick and Debra Holiday, Katrina and Mark Daw, Timmy Holiday, and James Holiday to Tracy Moore, 59 Hwy 70, $22,000.

STELLA

Maureen and Joseph Wyzykowski, Sr. to Duane and Joanne Wells, 171 White Oak Bluff Road, $85,000.

SWANSBORO

Debra Gilbert to Freddie Roberts, 316 Appaloosa Court, $235,000.

John and Karen Christian to David and Claudia Demorest, 215 Palomino Lane, $282,000.

216 Echo Ridge Road, LLC to Cody and Mercedes

Ryba, 216 Echo Ridge Road, $346,000.

Diane Lusk to Judith and Robert Dobler, Sr., and Debra Dobler, 105 White Heron Lane, $375,000.

*Publisher’s Note: This data is provided as public information available to all county residents. Island Review accepts no liability for errors or omissions and has endeavored to be as accurate as possible. Price given indicates the number of tax stamps purchased at deed filing (representing $2 for $1,000 of sales price, in $500 increments) and as such, may not exactly reflect the true purchase price.

ARIES (March 21-April 20) - Aries, think about collaborating on a fun project with someone close to you. Find out if anyone needs help on something they may be working on if you don’t have a project in mind. If you notice you have been running into obstacles as you work to achieve your goals, you may want to step back and try to figure out another course of action. By the end of the month, however, you need to get back to business, especially if hobbies or other interests have been taking up much of your time. Avoid distractions at all costs. Keep in mind that communication with a spouse or a loved one is vital; otherwise, you risk arguments for no reason at all. Sit down and have some frank conversations about your needs.

TAURUS (April 21-May 21) - Excitement concerning work goals or a business venture may compel you to take some action to get your ideas heard by higher-ups, Taurus. The audience will be receptive. Expect an offer that notes your efforts and achievements to come your way. Do not let this immediately go to your head, but enjoy the fruits of your labors. You may be excited about new prospects that are on the horizon. With so much change coming, it can be exciting to see what lies in wait. Remember, if you face adversity, you can rest assured that you can handle anything that is thrown at you. Although, you may need a little help from some close friends or family.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) - Gemini, trying to resolve issues in a relationship this month may leave you feeling unsettled. It might be that you are trying to avoid sensitive topics that you will have to address eventually. Lately your willpower has been weak. If diet plans are getting sidelined by your inability to stay on track, you may want to enlist a buddy to keep you motivated. Have you been devoting a lot of attention to others of late, sometimes cutting into your own needs? Be attentive and caring, but pay attention to your own needs as well. Others may not understand who you are and could make assumptions that are inaccurate. They may just need some more information to get a clearer picture.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) - Cancer, if you are feeling content with yourself and life in general lately, that is excellent. Embrace this positive state of mind and take the necessary steps to continue the good feelings. Take a break when you can because there is soon to be a whirlwind of activity coming in your direction. Enjoy down time while it is still available to you. By the middle of the month, your calendar will be filling up quickly. Slow down when you need to; otherwise, you may prematurely burnout. Many elements of your life are start to level out as the month comes to a close. That can be a comfort to you because you seemingly have been running around for some time and could use a break.

LEO (July 23-August 23) - You might be feeling nostalgic or sentimental. Look over old photographs or watch family movies for a bit. If you want to take it further, reach out to childhood friends. Exercise caution so that your actions are not misinterpreted. You do not want others thinking you are doing things for the wrong reasons. Try to lighten up and be positive this week. If expenses and finances have been troubling you of late, you can breathe a sigh of relief when things lighten at the end of the month. Others have nothing but good things to say to you this month. Bask in their kind words and adoration, and use this as motivation for future endeavors.

VIRGO (August 24-September 22) - Find new activities that you can add to your daily routine, Virgo. This may be a sport, hobby or even a new club. Add a dose of creativity to each and every day for good effects. This month you could find yourself being the center of attention at a gathering with friends or family. Use the opportunity to get your thoughts out there and heard. You will need to uphold your end of the bargain for the time being as others are counting on you delivering. You cannot dodge any responsibilities right now. With no big events on the horizon, you may want to manufacture one to have a reason to party. Start planning your guest list and come up with a fun theme to get behind.

LIBRA (September 23-October 23)Uncertainty regarding long-term plans may be driving emotions of shyness. If you are having trouble, plan excursions or events with friends you trust. Libra, you will need to pick a course and stick with it, especially during the middle of the month. There is a lot of temptation out there but if you don’t commit you’ll never get things done. You may receive some offers from employers or entrepreneurs that seem very appealing. Before you jump into something new, do your homework. While you should be mindful of your goals, you also can support those around you as they pursue their own. Serve as inspiration to people in your life right now.

SCORPIO (October 24-November 22)Encouragement comes from people you may not feel are on your team. Take all of the support you can get as you start plowing through some long-term goals. Arguments that have been slowly building up may come to a head this month, Scorpio. Your best bet is to stay out of the fray by keeping your distance and avoiding commentary. It will become obvious how others rely on you for advice and to get jobs done correctly. All of that responsibility can put extra pressure on you, so take it all in stride. This is a good time to start tackling some projects around the house that have been put off for some time. Redecorating and remodeling can be an inspiration right now.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23-December 21)It’s always the right time to tell others how much they mean to you, Sagittarius. It will not take grand gestures to do so, merely your loving words. It is possible that someone new you will meet this month can become a close friend who sticks with you through thick and thin. Look for this person in the days to come. You may discover that people are flocking to you left and right. You will not have trouble making new friends if you so desire. Take a step back and reevaluate your approach to a situation because the way you have been doing it just hasn’t yielded the results you expected, Sagittarius. Take suggestions and tips.

CAPRICORN (December 22-January 20)Your busy schedule has everything feeling more hectic even if it really isn’t. Carve out some time to sit quietly or enjoy some alone time to refresh. Now might be a time to figure out how to reduce some stress, especially if you find that people are avoiding you as of late. A change in attitude is all it takes. Remember to always take ownership of any actions that may have put you into a strained relationship with those close to you. Admitting mistakes is the first step in mending fences. High energy may have you swinging at the fences every time you try to tackle something. You may want to dial things back and take a more measured approach.

AQUARIUS (January 21-February 18) - This month you may be feeling especially charitable. Open your heart up to others who may need some extra support. This may be a stranger or someone you know. You might be ready to delve into the next chapter of a relationship. Figure out what means the most to you and move those priorities to the forefront. You may only now be getting to those resolutions you made a few months ago, but better late than never. Focus on projects around the home that will revitalize your spaces. Various transitions in your life could temporarily disrupt your daily activities. You’ll find a new groove soon enough that will feel comfortable and provide you with what you need.

PISCES (February 19-March 20) - Some news from a family member may catch you offguard, Pisces. You’ll soon recover when you learn that it is extremely happy news. You may even get good news of your own. Inspiration is coming your way. You will have plenty of time to do anything you want to put your mind to. Start making that running list of ideas. Physical activity can do wonders for you. If you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed or even tired, take a walk or hit the gym for some exercise that can alleviate many symptoms. Don’t take stock of what all the naysayers have been dishing out. You know yourself better than others and recognize what you are able to accomplish. Get started on plans.

best buy$

FINANCIAL SERVICES & INSURANCE

Bluewater Insurance Services: 201 Mangrove Drive, Emerald Isle, 252-354-1414. Offering coastal homeowner, commercial property, automobile and builders risk insurance along with general liability, workers compensation and more. The dedicated team is ready to provide their undivided attention to help you meet the needs of your family and business. Visit bluewater.com/insurance.

Crossbridge Financial: 2906 Hull Road, Kinston, 800-655-9487, www.crossbridgefinancial.com. Work toward the retirement you imagine with an independent financial advisor poised to help you customize your financial planning and wealth management to help bring your future into view.

Emerald Isle Insurance: 8754 Reed Drive, Unit 9, Emerald Isle, 252-354-5086. Protect your beach property & save on flood insurance by working with Rhonda & Sherry for coverage on your primary residence, second home or rental unit.

GEAR & EVENT RENTALS

Island Essentials: Linen & Leisure Supply Company, Emerald Isle, 888-398-8887, 252-3548887, info@islandessentials.com. High quality baby & beach gear rental equipment with free delivery & pick-up to your vacation home or special event. Bed & bath linen service also available. Year-round, reserve ahead to ensure availability.

HEALTH & BODY

Cape Carteret Aquatic & Wellness Center: 300 Taylor Notion Road, Cape Carteret, 252-3931000, ccaw.net. M-F 5:30am-9pm, Sat. 8am-4pm, Sun. 1-6pm. Youth & adult programs, swim lessons, yoga & Pilates, bosu, indoor heated pool, hot tub & steam, professional staff & personal trainers, regular & seasonal memberships.

Carteret Health Care: 3500 Arendell St., Morehead City, 252-808-6000, www. carteretgeneral.com. The nearly 150-bed comprehensive medical center recently completed a $53 million expansion featuring a cancer treatment center, women’s health clinic and more with a focus on the highest level of care.

HOME SERVICES

C.O.D. Home Services: Coastal Carolina premier contractor – whether you’re remodeling one room, for building an entire home. Recognized in 2016 by the NC Home Builders Association, owner Mark Merrell works hand in hand with clients to make all their dreams come true. Call 252-354-3635 or email codhomeservices@ymail. com.

Ducote Services: 2213-1 Bridges Street, Morehead City, 252-223-2133. Roofing, framing, and decks, they do it all. If you need general home repairs or full renovations, they will work with you to make your home safe and structured.

Emerald Isle Homeowner’s Services: 9106-B Coast Guard Road, Emerald Isle, 252-764-2563. Relax and leave your keys with us! A full service “boutique” property management services company specializing in vacation rentals, VRBO and annual rentals. Discover the low, streamlined service plans.

Home Repairs by Darryl Marshall: 230 West Shorewood Drive, Emerald Isle, 252-354-2883, homerepairs1@eastnc.twcbc.com. Serving Emerald Isle property owners for almost three decades. Specializing in remodeling and home repairs, services include carpentry, painting, roofs, decks, replacement windows and doors and yard maintenance. Call with all your home improvement needs.

John Harrell Electric Company: 919-921-7808, jharrell1510@yahoo.com. A licensed and insured electrician for the residential and commercial homes in Carteret County and surrounding areas. Liftavator: 4430 Hwy 70 East, New Bern, 888634-1717, encelevators.com. Service all brands of elevators & lifts with 5-year product warranty & 2-year service warranty. Licensed & insured. 24-hour service available. Building, installing & servicing elevators since 1985.

Royal Coat: 252-727-5418, www.royalcoat.com. Let the team at Royal Coat add a functional, decorative touch to your concrete surfaces, from patio and pool decks to driveways and garages. Free estimates.

The Simplified Island: Www.thesimplifiedisland. com. Looking for some help to declutter and organize your home? Make an appointment with the simplified island to simplify your home life.

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR DECOR

Artistic Kitchen & Bath: 252-241-7579. Free design consultation and estimates! The area’s most unique and extensive selection of interior and exterior tile, mosaics, glass, stone and hardwood. Professional installation. Drop by M-F, 10-5, Saturday by appointment, 607 Atlantic Beach Causeway, Atlantic Beach, or visit www.artistictileandstonenc.com.

Atlantic Breeze Storm Shutters: 3906 Arendell St., Morehead City, 252-727-9040. Free estimates! The Carolina’s only custom Bahama & Colonial manufacturer. Visit our showroom to see our complete line of storm shutters & awnings, in fiberglass & aluminum, folding accordion, roll downs- no storm bars, canvas & retractable awnings.

Budget Blinds: 3078 Hwy 24, Newport, 252-247-

3355, cell: 252-229-6431, budgetblinds.com.

Charlie Utz gives free in-home consultations in Carteret & Craven Counties on cellular shades, plantation shutters, blinds, woven woods, draperies & more.

Carolina Cabinets on Demand: 102 Five Aprils Drive #3, Peletier, 252-424-8265, 252-723-1352, www.carolinacabinetsondemand.com. Carolina Cabinets wants to help create the home of your dreams. Showcasing a wide variety of cabinet options to choose from, they will help you every step of the way. Let them help you make your house a home!

Great Windows: 252-728-3373. Quality custom made window treatments including blinds, shades & shutters. For a perfect match, professional decorators come to your home or business. Products include: Great Windows, Hunter Douglas, Timber and Somfy motorized remote control. Fast one-week service (shutters 15 days). Call today for a handcrafted, flawless fit, precise installation and 100-year warranty.

Island Furniture and Accessories: 407 Atlantic Beach Causeway, 252-727-4778. The only furniture store on the island. Specializing in coastal furniture and accessories for indoors and out. Interior design services available. Open 10am-5pm, Monday-Saturday. Visit www. shopislandfurniture.com.

McQueen’s Interiors: Pelletier Harbor Shops, Hwy 70/Arendell St., Morehead City, 252-2473175, mcqueensinteriors.com. 10,000 sq. ft. showroom of unique contemporary, traditional & coastal furnishings. Complete professional design services to make your home truly one-of-a-kind.

OUTDOORS & MARINE

Coastal Fence Co.: 7300 Highway 70 East, New Bern, 252-637-2591. Commercial and residential fence and gate services in eastern North Carolina, Coastal Fence has been a loyal, professional, and affordable company for 40 years. For all your gate and fence needs, call Coastal Fence!

Dunson Pool & Spa: 101 Crescent Drive Suite A, Beaufort, 252-838-6180. Whether you’re looking for a hot tub to help smooth out those sore muscles, searching for a needed part or ready to ready to take the plunge with a Swim Spa of your own, Dunson Pool & Spa’s Beaufort showroom is full of great ideas.

East Carolina Services: 1010 W. Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, 252-240-1117, www. eastcarolinaservices.com. Fully licensed and insured landscape and pool maintenance offering hardscape design/construction, softscapes, irrigation, night lighting, sod and

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more. The pool and patio store offers free water testing as well as chemicals, equipment and accessories. Now selling Grill Dome Kamado Grills and Bull Grills.

Emerald Pool Works: Are you dreaming of a backyard pool? Custom design and construction of pools and hot tubs. Learn more at emeraldpw. com or call 252-764-7030.

Yardworks, Inc. Landscaping & Lawn Care: 902 WB McLean Blvd., Cape Carteret, 252-3939005, yardworkslandscapes.com. Over 20 years of experience working on the Crystal Coast. Quality service in landscaping, irrigation, lawn care, outdoor lighting, hardscapes and design.

REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION

Al Williams Properties, Real Estate & Development: 407 Atlantic Beach Causeway, 252726-8800, 800-849-1888, alwilliamsproperties. com. From sound to sea & beyond. We can serve your coastal real estate needs. Open 6 days/ week, by appointment on Sunday.

Beach Life Properties: 200 Mangrove Drive, Emerald Isle. Meet the Fab 4 today to start looking for your dream beach home!

Bluewater Builders: 201 Mangrove Drive, Emerald Isle, 252-354-7610, buildwithbluewter. com. From vacation homes to primary residences, Bluewater’s expertise can make your dream of living on the Crystal Coast a customized reality.

Bluewater Real Estate: 200 Mangrove Drive, Emerald Isle, 252-354-2128; 407 Atlantic Beach Causeway Suite #6F, Atlantic Beach 252-7263105; bluewaternc.com. Vacation, monthly & annual rentals. Real estate sales of island & mainland properties for all of Carteret County. Carolyn Blackmon: Broker/realtor with Bluewater Real Estate, Emerald Isle. A Carteret County native ready to assist newcomers and locals alike when buying and selling real estate along the Crystal Coast. Call 252-515-4831 or visit www. bluewaternc.com.

CENTURY 21 Coastland Realty: 7603 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle. With 30+ years we have served the rental and sales needs of Emerald Isle. National name recognition. Vacation, monthly and annual rentals. Knowledgeable and service award winning sales team supported by century21.com. Courteous local staff to meet your needs. Call us and see – you will not get a recording, only quick, professional personal service. Call 800-822-2121, 252-354-2131 or visit www.coastland.com.

Emerald Isle Realty: 7501 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, Sales: 252-354-4060, 800-304-4060, EmeraldIsleRealty.com. Awarded 2005, 2009 and 2011 Top Office Production Award for Carteret County Our knowledgeable & professional sales staff is happy to discuss any of your

concerns & help you make the correct decision when buying or selling real estate on the coast.

Emerald Isle Realty Vacation Rentals: 7501 Emerald Drive, 800-849-3315, 252-3543315, private owner’s line 800-354-2859, EmeraldIsleRealty.com. With over 50 years in property management, maximizing the rental income on your investment property is our #1 priority. Call for a complimentary, confidential property management analysis.

Future Homes: 1075 Freedom Way, Hwy 24, Hubert (8 miles west of Swansboro), 910-5776400. Licensed general contractor with master craftsmen, modular technology, fast construction, display models.

Katrina Marshall, Real Estate Broker: Keller Williams Crystal Coast, 5113-A US 70 West, Morehead City, serving Morehead City, Bogue Banks and the surrounding area. Over 24 years experience working with property owners in Carteret County and the Emerald Isle area. Please call me to work for you, 252-499-0805 (office), 252-241-1081 (mobile) or kmarshall@kw.com. Landmark Homes: 252-393-2159, 800-6117705, landmarkhomesnc.com. Diane & John Ritchie offer fully licensed & insured, commercial & quality home building services as well as renovations to make your wishes come true.

Landmark Sotheby’s Realty: Steve Brown, Real Estate Broker with Landmark Sotheby’s International Realty in Morehead City, NC located at 4747 Arendell St., 252.723.8855. Steve has over 37 years experience in the real estate industry and specializes in the second home market. Utilizing the Sotheby’s International Realty brand with our multiple platforms and media partnerships, we provide your home with the ultimate exposure to a qualified audience. Call me today for specific details. Offices in Morehead City, Topsail, Wilmington, Southport, Ocean Isle Beach.

Sun-Surf Realty (Sales & Rentals): 7701 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, Sales 252-354-2958, 800849-2958, Rentals 252-354-2658, 800-553-7873, sunsurfrealty.com. Come for a Week, Stay for a Lifetime. Call to receive a Vacation Guide or email guestservices@sunsurfrealty.com for assistance in planning your island vacation. If you are ready to purchase or sell your beach home, call one of our knowledgeable sales professionals. Syndie Earnhardt, Realtor: 252-646-3244, HomesOnTheCrystalCoast.com, real estate broker with 34+ years sales experience in vacation homes and condos, investment properties, year-round/permanent homes and vacant land, while working with Bluewater Real Estate and specializing in the Crystal Coast. Buyer representation available.

RECREATION

Emerald Isle Beach & Pool Club: 101 Dolphin Ridge Road, Emerald Isle, 252-241-5302.

Emerald Isle’s only private beach club. Weekly and seasonal memberships available. Private beach access, swimming pool, tennis

courts, shower and changing facilities, game room, full ABC permits and gourmet eatery for the convenience of members. Visit emeraldislebeachclub.com.

NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores: 1 Roosevelt Blvd, Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512, 252-2474003. Enjoy a day with the family to see everything from sea turtles to jellyfish to otters and everything in between. Partake in arts and crafts planned on specific days. For planned events check out their website at www. ncaquariums.com/pine-knoll-shores.

SHOPS & SERVICES

Churchwell’s Jewelers: 7901 Emerald Drive, Ste. 6, Emerald Isle. Featuring nautical, equestrian and traditional jewelry. Custom design available. Call 252-354-7166 or visit churchwells.com.

Emerald Isle Books: Emerald Plantation, Emerald Isle, 252-354-5323, emeraldislebooks.com. Great selection of books, greeting cards, kites, stationery, games, toys & puzzles for the entire family. Hardback books discounted 10%.

Ginny Gordon’s: 1011 Arendell Street, Morehead City, 252-726-6661, ginnygordons. com. Spice up your kitchen like a real cook. Selling cookware, aprons, cookbooks, and much more since 1982. Very nice and helpful people that will work with you to make your kitchen feel more like home.

Hang 10 Donuts, NOW OPEN, 157 Atlantic Blvd. Keep your eyes peeled for the opening of this new donut shop at the Atlantic Beach Circle! Impressions Art Gallery & Studio: 4426

Arendell Street #3, Morehead City. Come see or create your own beautiful art pieces to be put on display. Find peace and beauty in your local gallery. Visit today!

Performance East: 130 Masonic Ave., Cedar Point. Outdoor powersports are on full display at this off-shoot from the store’s headquarters in Goldsboro. Family owned since 1994 –

Performance East offers both sales and service of a variety of high-profile brands, from Sea Chaser to Yamaha. Visit performanceeast.com.

William’s Hardware: 3011 Bridges St., Morehead City, 252-726-7158. Your local True Value hardware store, with easy access to the beach, is ready to help you complete you next DIY project. Lawn and garden, power tools, plumbing and electrical supplies and keys cutting, you’ll find it all with a touch that only local service can provide.

How Can a Financial Advisor Help?

Why are more clients seeking help, how can a financial advisor make a difference, and is the advice worth the cost? Let’s explore answers to these questions.

Complex investment options. As the financial landscape changes, there are many more choices to make regarding investments, along with new regulations that may be difficult to navigate without professional guidance.

Aging baby boomers. A large percentage of the population is nearing retirement and seeking help to figure out how to maximize their savings to live comfortably after ending their careers. Longer life expectancies have also made retirement planning and guidance more important across age groups.

Economic factors. In times of market volatility, financial guidance becomes especially important. Financial advisors can help answer questions like “will rising inflation affect my goal of retiring in the next 10 years, or do I need to adjust my portfolio to better keep up?”

Saving time, reducing stress, and avoiding mistakes. Professional advice you trust and a knowledgeable person to ask when you’re unsure takes much less time and reduces the anxiety of trying to get it right on your own, help you avoid making critical financial mistakes which can be costly and detrimental to your financial plans. An advisor likely has a more comprehensive financial education and more investing experience than you have.

Staying on track. Regular check-ins with your advisor can help keep you on course toward your financial goals, keep track of your progress, and adjust your saving and investing strategies when necessary.

Comprehensive planning. Although you may have the resources to study new investment options or specific savings tools it would be

time-consuming. An advisor can provide insight into budgeting, saving, retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, debt management, risk management, and business planning.

Possible access to connections. Advisors may collaborate with a network of attorneys, CPAs, insurance agents, and other professionals who can work together to help you achieve your goals.

How to Evaluate and Choose an Advisor

The best way is to ask family and friends for recommendations. So, what should you look for when choosing an advisor to help guide your financial decision-making?

Firm affiliation, experience, and certification. You should evaluate the education and background of a potential financial advisor. If your advisor has designations, research them and find out what the requirements were for obtaining them.

Fee structure. Some financial professionals collect commissions based on the investments they pick or the products they sell you. Others charge a flat fee or a percentage fee based on assets under management regardless of their recommendations or your investments. Be sure to ask about your financial advisor’s fee structure and how they get paid.

Trust and personal attention. Your advisor should give you as much information as you need to make the best financial decisions for you and your family. So, it’s important to feel your advisor is listening to you, considering your circumstances and needs, and making recommendations you trust.

If you, a friend, or family member is considering working with a financial advisor, we’d love to hear from you. As always, we aim to provide support and help you reach your financial goals.

East Carolina Services ......................................25

Emerald

Dunson

.......................38

Emerald Isle Books............................................29

Emerald Isle Homeowner Services .....................5

Emerald Isle Insurance ......................................21

Emerald Pool Works ..........................................35

Emerald Isle Realty Sales ....62, 63 & Back Cover

Emerald Isle Realty Vacation Rentals ...............37

Future Homes ....................................................15

Ginny Gordon’s ..................................................45

Great Windows ..................................................17

Home Repairs by Darryl ....................................23

Island Essentials................................................25

Island Furniture..................................................15

Katrina Marshall.................................................29

Landmark Homes ..............................................23

Landmark Sothebys International Realty.............3

Liftavator ............................................................10

McQueen’s

NC Aquarium .......................................................9

ReCoast Homes ................................................23

Royal Coat .........................................................51

Sun-Surf Realty Property Mgmt.........................19

Sun-Surf Realty Sales .......................................10

William’s Hardware ............................................51

Yardworks ..........................................................34

Our Clients Say it Best

Navigating this shifting market can be challenging FOR BOTH BUYERS & SELLERS!

“Crystal did an excellent job for us. She was polite, professional, and very responsive with answers and just keeping us updated through the process. I don’t think we could have hand-picked anyone better. We really appreciated her help.”

- D. Barth

We can’t wait to welcome you to the family! experience

Angela is terrific. She is hard-working, experienced, and personable. She knows the area very well and is also very adept at negotiations. She is always available and communicates regularly to meet all needs.”

- J. Redgrave

“Working with Laina was an absolute pleasure! She was extraordinarily helpful in finding and showing houses that were a perfect fit! On top of that, she was always on time and able to answer questions and guide us through the home-buying process. Laina has absolutely set the bar for REALTORS®, and I am glad I was able to work with her to buy my house!”

- I. Trident

Our Team of Real Estate Professionals are Ready to Put Their Knowledge to Work for You!

“A Tradition on the North Carolina Coast Since 1962!”

For over 62 years, our elite team of REALTORS® have represented thousands of sellers and buyers along our beautiful Crystal Coast. Emerald Isle Realty is focused on our clients. Each transaction is handled personally with unmatched customer service, integrity, confidence and expertise. If you are ready to get the most for your investment, reach out to our award-winning team today!