APRIL 2013
your life on the Crystal Coast
spring has sprung at home and in the wild it is the season of renewal
southern garden:
Container gardening For Beginners a ship in a Bottle Lands in Beaufort LionFish tournament:
if you can’t beat ’em … eat ’em! nCCF:
go native! o.W.L.s.:
King of the Fishers the Beaufort Boat Building Challenge a match made in heaven LooK inside For apriL’s things to do on the CrystaL Coast
A casual Island eatery with a
Touch of Class.
SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER Seafood • Salads • Steaks Burgers • Sandwiches Open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-8pm Friday & Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-8pm
311 Mangrove Drive (Across from CVS) EMERALD ISLE
252.354.7775
STARTING BREAkFAST MAy 1
www.flipperz.net
We work miracles with
monogramming!
Located in the entrance of the restaurant, Flipperz Fudge Co. and Flipperz Retail are great places to satisfy your sweet tooth, purchase wine, take home a unique gift or order custom embroidery for your friends, family & business!
MONOGRAMMED PURSES | WRISTLETS iPAD COVERS | HATS | BEACH BAGS
BOATBUILDING CHALLENGE 20 if you can’t beat ‘em, eat ‘em! 11 The Indo-Pacific lionfish has invaded our waters and is crowding out our native species. Plus, it’s covered with venomous spikes! Here’s the plan: let’s eat ‘em.
inside t his mont h
ship in a bottle lands in beaufort 12
A P R I L . 20 1 3
Have you ever wondered how they get those tiny ships into the bottles? A local master craftsman passes on his knowledge to the curious and serious alike.
the REGULARS
hooking a fresh catch 13 There are a few tricks for making sure your next seafood purchase meets your high
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expectations. Use all your senses to make your choice.
Things To Do in April 8
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camellias 14
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This belle of the Southern garden is actually an import from the North! A staple of the
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Parrot Heads: Spring Has Sprung! 36
The Beaufort boatbuilding challenge 20
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It’s that time again. Time for two-man teams to compete in a boatbuilding contest and
Captain James Rosemond wonders about compatibility, celebrates the triumph of hope
APRIL 2013
and encourages you to chuckle along as he accompanies a friend to the altar. Bar!
massage therapy: a modern healthy choice 25
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GO NATIVE AT THE NATIVE PLANT SALE 34 Evolved specifically to deal with our local climate and conditions, native plants are a great addition to your home landscape or garden.
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Diving the Crystal Coast 38 ■
a match made in heaven 22 ited salad
Hooked Up Fishing Report 37
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race to the finish line. A family-friendly activity for everyone who loves the water.
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Ask the Aquarium: Whelks 18
Southern Garden: Containers 19
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Southern garden, camellias come in varieties to suit every taste, and every need.
OWLS: Kingfishers 16
This month’s cover shot comes to Carolina Salt via Clay Ashby, an aspiring young photographer from Cape Carteret.
Thank you for picking up Carolina Salt magazine, published to depict your life here on the Crystal Coast. All articles are written by locals. We cover a wide range of topics including local history, outdoor sports, wildlife, special events and more. Every month we look to you, our readers, to keep our magazine fresh. If you have a story to tell, an event to promote, an interesting local photograph or just some good times stories to share, send them our way. Participation is welcomed and appreciated. Reader contributions are the founding principle of the magazine. We want to be a local resource for you, our readers … SO GET INVOLVED! If you like what you see, tell people about it ... especially our advertisers. Let our folks paying the bills know where you saw them. For questions, concerns and more information about Carolina Salt, send e-mail to will@crystalcoastoutdoors.com or give us a call at 252-723-7628. For up-to-date info regarding our latest shenanigans, be sure to look us up on Facebook under Crystal Coast Outdoors. Editorials & Advertising Please contact the publisher Will Ashby at will@crystalcoastoutdoors.com or 252-723-7628 for ad rates and editorial ideas. Ad & editorial deadline for the May issue is April 16, 2012. Email your letters to the editor, photos, community listings and articles to will@crystalcoastoutdoors.com. Next issue will be published May 1, 2013. Published by Crystal Coast Outdoors Publications P.O. Box 572, Morehead City, NC 28557 • 252-723-7628
WE DEPEND ON OUR READERS! CALL IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN SUBMITTING AN ARTICLE OR PHOTO! publisher
Will Ashby
c r e at i v e d i r ec t o r
G r a p h i c De s i g n e r
Chevy Kaylor
Bryan Frazier
s a l e s d i r ec t o r
Al Roberts
Contributing Writers
Janelle Fleming • David Cartier • Louis Lindic • Jan Eppolite • Linda Bergman-Althouse • Michael Stanley • Sherry White Vic Fasolino • Capt. James Rosemond • Gary T. Hardison • Kim Worrell • Ken Hunt • Lee Mason • Carla Stevens Lindsay Parker • J.B. Bagby • Sally Steele • Judy Long • Ken Stone • Capt. Jeff Cronk • Lee Moore
THINGS TO DO IN April April 5–6
Newport Pig Cookin’ Contest
USA’s largest whole hog BBQ pig cookin’ invites you to two days of food, fun and springtime celebration. Concession stands, rides, bake sales, funnel cake, live music, souvenirs and much more. Admission and parking are free. Barbecue plates are only $7. Serving for BBQ begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Visit www.newportpigcooking.com for more information. April 6
Free Kayak Rigging Clinic
[ 1 p.m.] Bring your kayak over for advice and assistance! Visit Flatwaters Paddling at 3102 Emerald Drive in Emerald Isle. Call 252-354-7878 to reserve your spot. April 7
Bubbles & Blooms: A Garden Party in Beaufort
[ 4 – 7 p.m. ] Welcome spring at The Cedars Inn in Beaufort with Bubbles & Blooms: A Garden Party, Enjoy a sampling of champagnes and appetizers while strolling in the garden. Cost is $30 per person (tax and gratuity not included). Reservations are required; call 252-838-1463 or email cedarsevents305@gmail.com. April 9
Community Night at Core Sound Waterfowl Museum
[ 6 p.m. ] At the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center at 1785 Island Road on Harkers Island. County historian Rodney Kemp will lead discussions on area history each second Tuesday of the month. A covered dish supper begins at 6 p.m. followed by a 7 p.m. program. Call 252-728-1500 for more information. April 11 – May 1
26th Annual Carteret County Senior Games
[ 9 a.m. ] Fun, fellowship & food! The Carteret County Senior Games will April 11 at 9 a.m. Opening ceremonies, breakfast and performing arts and cheer show to be held at Fort Benjamin Park in Newport. Event runs through May 1. For more information contact Carteret County Parks & Recreation at 252808-3301 or visit www.ccparksrec.com. April 12
Friday Free Flicks
[ 7 p.m. ] At Emerald Isle Community Center, located at 7500 Emerald Drive. Movies are family ori-
ented. Free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Popcorn and drink for $1. Please bring chairs and blankets, but no outside beverages or snacks. Call 252-354-6350 for movie title one week prior to showing. April 13
Down East Folk Arts Society Concerts
[ 8 p.m. ] Join Down East FolkArts as we launch our twentieth season, clapping to the music and enjoying the intimate venues at the upper room at Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant in Beaufort! Membership is encouraged, volunteers are welcomed and all are invited to enjoy the live music! Check the website at www.downeastfolkarts.org for details on activities or call 252-633-6444 for more information. Admission is $15 ($12 for members; $8 for students).
BHA Living History Presentation: Music of Stephen Collins Foster
[ 2 p.m. ] The Beaufort Historical Association’s Living History Program will feature a presentation on the life and music of American composer Stephen Collins Foster in the c.1796 Courthouse on the Beaufort Historic Site, 100 Block Turner Street, Beaufort. The narration about Foster’s life will be presented by Bob Malone and interspersed with a musical selection of some of Stephen Foster’s most popular songs performed by Harmony Creek. Call 252-728-5225 for more information. April 19
International Film Presents: ‘Where Do We Go Now?’ A Film from Lebanon
[6:30 – 7:30 p.m. ] Carteret Community College Foundation presents its Second Annual International Film Series. On April 19, Lebanese film “Where Do We Go Now? (Wo Hallah La Wen?”) will be presented in Joslyn Hall at 7:30 p.m. with live music from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $5. International pastries & refreshments will be available for purchase in the lobby. For a more eventful evening, guests can enjoy our “Dinner and a Movie” option, featuring a catered dinner from Piccata’s at 6 p.m. in the Camp Glenn Building on campus. Each dinner reflects the movie’s nationality and is served with a glass of wine. Individual tickets are $30; series tickets (dinner and movie for all four showings) are $100. Reservations are required for the dinner portion of the event. Contact Tiffany Taylor at 252-222-6056 or taylort@email.carteret. edu to make reservations.
Pig Pickin’ On The Beaufort Dock: Join In ‘A Night in Tortuga’
[ 6 – 11 p.m. ] The Dockhouse & the Pyrates of Onslow Bay invite you to join in a fun-filled evening at the Dockhouse Restaurant on Front Street in Beaufort. Food and entertainment will set the stage for an evening of piratical fun. The Dockhouse is providing a pig pickin’ dinner complete with all the fixings. BBQ pig, chicken and fish with sides will accompany our feast this year. Live music by our own Vicki Fox! At 7:15 the real fun begins with the Wench Auction, with guest emcee Big Mama D, voted Charlotte’s Best Singer for the past five years and owner of the longest running burlesque and vaudeville show in North and South Carolina! Local wenches will put their collected bounties up for auction, each treasure donated by our local businesses. A few of the items up for bid include a half-day charter with Seavisions Charters Pirate and wench costume trips aboard local touring boats and much more! Tickets for the event will be sold in advance at the Dockhouse and Beaufort Trading Co. for $15 ($20 at the door). Ticket price includes a plate of food, drink token and entry to the auction. This is a 21 and up event only; IDs are required upon entry. All proceeds benefit the 2013 Beaufort Pirate Invasion. For information contact Heather Watkins at 704-877-1820. April 20
Scrapbooking Workshop
[ 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. ] Scrapbooking Workshops with Linda Phelps for ages 12 and up will take place at Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation. Pre-registration is required. Fee is $5, with additional packages available. Use of tools and snack included. Fees payable at workshop. Call Linda Phelps at 910-3266164 or email rphelps@ec.rr.com.
Friends of the Western Carteret Library Homes Tour & Art Show
Each property on this year’s tour is quite unique and hostesses will welcome visitors at each site. The Art Show and Sale will be special this year as it is Carteret County’s first juried art show. Made possible by the cooperation of the Seaside Arts Council, it is an event not to be missed at the Land’s End Clubhouse! A visit to a working artist’s studio will be included as a part of the tour. Online sales will be available until 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 19, at $15.00. Pick up advance online tickets or purchase at the Visitor Center on Highway 58 the day of the event. Tickets may also be purchased on the day of
THINGS TO DO IN april the event for $18 at Land’s End Club House on Coast Guard Road in Emerald Isle. Call Diane Schools at 252-354-2916 or MariPat Wright at 252-354-3611 for more information.
Our friends at O.W.L.S. introduce you to the Belted Kingfisher. Did you know this nifty bird, with its trademark large head, is a terrible housekeeper? Or that its legs are positioned too far back to allow it to walk on land? Curiousity piqued?
American Music Festival Series
[ 8 p.m. ] Check website for locations and featured musicians at www.americanmusicfestival.org.
Publick Day
[ 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. ] An old-fashioned flea market on the Beaufort Historic Site features vendors selling antiques and collectibles, art, crafts, handmade jewelry, books, food and much more. No admission charge. Vendor information is available for this fun spring event. Call 252-728-5225 for more information or email lindsay@beauforthistoricsite.org.
flip ahead to P16
Fort Macon State Park Civil War Reenactment
[ 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. ] At Fort Macon State Park on Atlantic Beach. Events will be performed throughout the day by the 1st NC Volunteers. Flag talks, uniform talks, women’s dress talks and musket firings and drills are a few of the programs being performed. Call 252-726- 3775 for more information.
AAA Presents an ‘Our State’ Day Trip to Historic Beaufort
[ 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. ] Experience the history, lore and culture of the Core Sound on this exclusive day trip to Beaufort and Harkers Island. Limited to 40 travelers. Cost is $75 per person. To make reservations, visit www.ourstate.com/events. For more information call Laurie Weaver at 1-800-948-1409.
Tour de Bogue Banks
[ 8 a.m. ] The Kayak for the Warriors organization in Pine Knoll Shores has added a new facet to its annual offerings. Tour de Bogue Banks registration fee is $45. For information, call 252-247-4353 or visit www.kayakforthewarriors.org. April 24
9th Annual Beaufort Wine & Food Weekend
Great wines plus the food of coastal Carolina’s finest restaurants are a perfect pairing. Visit the seaside town of Beaufort in style while attending tastings, seminars, dinners, wine and cheese pairings and more. Each year this event gets better and better, confirming the increasing appreciation of fine wines in North Carolina and around the country. A not-to-be-missed culinary experience. Visit www. beaufortwineandfood.com or call 252-728-5225.
April 27
Free Crystal Coast Earth Day Festival
[ 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. ] Join Cape Lookout National Seashore and more than 20 other environmental educators in an Earth Day Celebration for the whole family. Get close to marine invertebrates (like whelks and sea stars) with a touch tank, meet rescued wildlife, make coastal crafts and discover ways you can help protect our environment. This free event is held at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach. For more information, visit the Crystal Coast Earth Day Festival’s Facebook page.
Lookout Rotary Spring Road Race
[ 7 a.m. ] 5K and 10K Run, 1-Mile Fun Run, 5K and 1-Mile Fitness Walk & 1-Mile Tot Push or Pull. Event takes place at Sports Center, located at 701 North 35th Street in Morehead City. Registration opens at 7 a.m. Pre-register online at www.runtheeast.com or www.lookoutrotaryrace.com. For information, call 252-726-7070 or call Sports Center. May 2
Chamber of Commerce ‘Business After Hours’ Expo
[ 4 – 7:30 p.m. ] The Carteret County Chamber of Commerce presents its annual Business After Hours Expo at the Crystal Coast Civic Center in Morehead City. “This is a unique event, because we combine the buzz of a business trade show, featuring about 65 exhibitors, with all of the excitement,
fun, food and fellowship of a colossal ‘Business After Hours’ event,” said Julie Naegelen, who serves as Expo coordinator for the Chamber. “As a special treat, Chamber member restaurants and caterers will be there to offer samples of their specialty dishes.” The public is invited to attend the Business After Hours Expo; admission is $5 per person. Complimentary beer and wine will be offered from 5 p.m. to closing. For this reason, please, no children. Those who attend can register for door prize drawings, including a vacation to a resort in Mexico that is being offered by the Crystal Coast Photo Booth. Call 252-726-6350 for more information. May 3
Alive at Five Concert Series [ 5 – 8 p.m. ] The Alive at Five Concert Series is free to the public. Concerts take place at Katherine Davis Park in downtown Morehead City between 6th and 7th Streets. No coolers allowed. For more information, call 252-808-0440.
Classic Movie Night at Emerald Isle Parks & Rec 6 pm. Movies are classic films or movies based on classic novels. Free and open to the public, children must be accompanied by an adult. Parental Guidance may apply to some films. Popcorn and drink for $1.00. Please bring chairs and or blankets, no outside beverages or snacks. Call 252.354.6350 for movie title one week prior to showing.
THINGS TO DO IN april May 4
Beaufort National Boatbuilding Challenge
[ 9:15 A.M. – NOON ] Teams of two get four hours and enough materials to build a Carolina Bateau. Boats will be judged on speed of construction, finish quality and a rowing race. Come and watch or come to build! Entry fee is $100. You get $500 worth of materials (you keep the boat!), a free plan set and two tickets to the award reception. This
event is free and open to the public. For information or to register, contact Vic Fasolino at 252-6480944 or beaufortchallenge@gmail.com. You can also visit www.beaufortchallenge.com. May 4
‘Down and Derby’ Fundraiser [ 4 – 8 P.M. ] Presented by Emerald Isle Friends of the Path and Emerald Isle Beach and Pool Club. All proceeds will benefit Emerald Isle’s bike and pe-
April 4, 11, 18 & 25
APRIL 13–14
Talkin’ Art with Donna Nyzio
Nautical Tool & Tag Sale
Join Beaufort artist Donna Nyzio every Thursday at 3 p.m. through May 30 at the North Carolina Maritime Museum as she goes step-by-step, creating two maritime-inspired masterpieces. No matter if you’re an artist, armchair historian or sailing buff, Donna’s candid approach will hold your attention. The first painting will depict Blackbeard’s ship Queen Anne’s Revenge as she may have appeared when she ran aground in Beaufort Inlet back in 1718. The second will depict the tall ship HMS Bounty throughout her life, including her appearances in Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean movies and her unfortunate demise off North Carolina’s coast. Watch these oil paintings come to life while Nyzio recounts her historic research, aesthetic choices and lessons learned along the way. 252-728-7317. APRIL 3
Shackleford Banks Hike [ 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ] Experience the Outer Banks with a guided hiked. Not suitable for children under 6. Reservations required by calling 252-728-7317. Fee is $25. APRIL 5
Kayaking for Kids [ 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. ] For kids ages 12-18. Basic instruction and safety lessons and a guided paddle trip through a salt marsh habitat. Reservations required by calling 252-7287317. Fee is $45 ($25 with own kayak). APRIL 12–14
Marine Sanctuary Film Festival
252-728-2762 www.ncmaritimemuseums.com
destrian path. At Emerald Isle Beach & Pool Club in Dolphin Ridge. Live entertainment, cash bar, silent auction and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $30 per person. For tickets, contact Carla Abee at 252-342-8248 or cabee@transportationimpact. com, Joe Eckard at 252-241-0590 or joe@spinnakersreach.com, Diane Schools at 252-354-2916 or dschools@ec.rr.com. You may also stop by the Emerald Isle Community Center at 7500 Emerald Drive to purchase tickets.
Held by the Youth Working Group of the Monitor National Marine Sanctuary and the Town of Beaufort, this film festival will highlight student entries on the topic of ocean conservation from around the region. For more information on the festival, visit monitor.noaa.gov.
[ 7 – 10 a.m. ] For Sale: Old boats, trailers, motors and tools! Proceeds support the museum. Call 252-728-2762 for donation drop-off or pick-up information. APRIL 17
Ports and Pilots
[ 10 a.m. – noon ] Get a firsthand look at some of the exports and imports moving through the North Carolina Port Facility in Morehead City. Fee includes video presentation on harbor pilots and transportation to the port. Not suitable for children under 12. Reservations required by calling 252-728-7317. Fee is $10. APRIL 19
Explore Rachel Carson Reserve
[ 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ] A guided hike explores the different habitats found on Town Marsh and Bird Shoal. See the flora and fauna up close. Reservations required by calling 252-728-7317. Fee is $15. APRIL 26
Learn to Kayak
[ noon – 3 p.m. ] Basic instruction and safety lessons followed by a relaxing paddle through a salt marsh. Ages 12 and up ( under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). Reservations required by calling 252-728-7317. Fee is $45 ($25 with own kayak). by appointment only
Sailing Lessons
Learn how to sail! Pick from traditional boat handling, adult or family sailing lessons. Call 252-728-2762 for prices and details.
Custom Kayak Trips
For groups of 4 to 8 people ages 12 and up (under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). Call 252-728-7317 for availability and prices.
If you can’t beat ‘em,
eat ’em! by janelle FLeming
THE INDO-PACIFIC LIONFISH They’re crowding out our native species. They’re covered with venomous spines. On the upside, they taste good!
Did you know that there is an invasion occurring on the North Carolina coast? The Indo-Pacific lionfish was mistakenly let into the Atlantic Ocean waters in the early 1990s and it has been steadily moving up the Atlantic coast from Florida every since. It is native to the Indo-Pacific range, but the lionfish population has exploded for a few reasons: they have no known natural predators in the Atlantic Ocean; they eat approximately half their own body weight each day, which leads to rapid growth and maturation; scientists believe that the females are mature after six months and can lay about 30,000 eggs every four days; and traditional fishing methods have not worked to harvest these fish. It’s proved to be an incredibly toxic and destructive mix for our grouper, snapper and crustaceans in the fertile waters of the Atlantic Ocean. These native species are competing harder for grazing space, and juveniles are quickly becoming dinner for the lionfish. What to do? The Inaugural If you www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
Can’t Beat ‘Em, Eat ‘Em Lionfish/ Lobster Spearfishing Tournament. The tournament is a joint effort between Bistro-By-the-Sea, Discovery Diving, the Eastern Carolina Artificial Reef Association (ECARA), Carteret Catch and Hampton Inn of Morehead City. The tournament will be held annually to raise public awareness of the lionfish problem in the Atlantic, to develop a possible management strategy by creating a sustainable commercial fishery and to encourage the sale of locally caught seafood. The spearfishing tournament is a tenday event that begins with an educational forum at Discovery Diving, a local dive center in Carteret County. Participants in the tournament will learn about the origins of the lionfish epidemic, discover issues associated with the epidemic and learn how to properly spearfish and collect lionfish without being punctured by their venomous spines. Discovery Diving has also set aside a special charter during the weekends that
will take participants to locations that are known to be overrun with lionfish. Additionally, the meat that will be collected as part of the tournament will be given to Bistro-by-the-Sea so that they can prepare the lionfish for participants at the closing ceremony and for public education at a Big Rock weigh-in. All of these activities work to educate the public on the lionfish issue as well as introduce them as a possible addition to the dinner menu. Non-profits ECARA and Carteret Catch are asking for any donations that businesses can make in order to make the spearfishing tournament a success. A contribution of $100 or more will qualify a business as a sponsor of the tournament. As a side benefit, it is considered a taxdeductible charitable gift. Sponsors’ business logos will be featured in all promotional materials. For more details on the event, including the rules and registration information, visit www.carolinareef.org/index.php/n. If you can’t beat ’em … eat ’em!
Carolina Salt Magazine
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39th Annual Wooden Boat Show Runabouts, dinghies and day-sailors once again take the spotlight for the 39th Annual Wooden Boat Show on Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The spirit of boatbuilding comes alive with traditional skills demonstrations, displays, educational activities, sailboat races, historic vessels and boat models. You can even enjoy a free boat ride.
Lee Hinsen (right) of Morehead City learns the art of building a ship in a bottle from Jim Goodwin.
Ship in a bottle lands in Beaufort By David Cartier
On any given day you can walk down Front Street in Beaufort, North Carolina and learn about the art of traditional boatbuilding. The Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center, opened in 1991, carries on the rich maritime heritage of the North Carolina coast by actively teaching wooden boatbuilding to new generations. Located across the street from the North Carolina Maritime Museum, the Watercraft Center is unique in that visitors can watch boatbuilders constructing new boats using traditional techniques. But today was different. When I walked through the door, there was an unusual type of boatbuilding taking place—on a much smaller scale. Among the large, handcrafted boats were a group of people meticulously handcrafting one-of-a-kind ships … in bottles. The atmosphere was quiet as the craftsmen concentrated totally on the task at hand. It was a new type of boatbuilding class. Nationally recognized craftsman Jim Goodwin was teaching a workshop on how to build a ship in a bottle. In three days, Goodwin would show participants how to construct and insert a topsail schooner (along with a lighthouse)
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Carolina Salt Magazine
into a 750ml bottle. While they were learning a new skill, it was clear Goodwin was giving them something more: inspiration to preserve this unique craft. Goodwin is uniquely qualified to teach this historic craft. His ships in bottles and set dressings have been featured in The Lovely Bones, the Dreamworks movie adaptation of Alice Sebold’s 2002 novel. In the film, Mark Wahlberg plays an accountant and father who builds ships in bottles in an attempt to capture dreams. In the movie, he often barricades himself in his study at home, lost in his world of miniature ships in bottles. Most recently, Goodwin’s ships in bottles were used for a sketch on NBC’s Emmy Award-winning latenight comedy Saturday Night Live. Goodwin devotes his time to preserving the art of building ships in a bottle by giving demonstrations at museums and festivals. He returns to Beaufort on May 4 to show his work at the annual Wooden Boat Show. You can see more of Goodwin’s work on his website at www.carolinasib.com.
beaufort boatbuilding challenge Held simultaneously with the annual Wooden Boat Show, The Beaufort Boatbuilding Challenge features eighteen twoperson teams competing at full speed to build a 12’ Carolina Bateau rowing skiff in less than four hours. The rowing race always packs the Beaufort waterfront. The top three teams receive cash prizes. They also qualify for the national boatbuilding championship. Learn more about the 6th Annual Beaufort Boatbuilding Challenge at www. beaufortchallenge.com. See article on P20.
visit Historic Beaufort on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ historicbeaufortnc.
252-728-2762 www.ncmaritimemuseums.com
HOOKING A FRESH CATCH By Louis Lindic, Executive Chef Old Salt Restaurant
Many people have asked me as a chef, “How can you determine if the fish you purchase is fresh?” Believe it or not, there are quite a few safeguards that you can use to assure you of a quality purchase. We are very fortunate to live on the coast where there are ample numbers of seafood stores supplying us with fresh fish, caught daily. There is even a professional organization called Carteret Catch. This organization is comprised of local fishermen, seafood purveyors and restaurants that promote the freshest seafood while keeping the revenue right here in our county to boost the local economy. Be sure to keep your eyes open for their logo at seafood stores and restaurants, not only to assure a great product, but also to support our local industry. Since fish is such a perishable protein, the store that you choose should have a large turnover of the product, constantly restocking their cases with fresh products.
Use Your Senses
The next question is, how far did the fish have to swim to get to the seafood counter? There are several tell tale signs of the long-distance fish (remember: perishable), if you use your senses of sight, smell and touch. Sight. When purchasing a whole fish, look at the eyes of the fish. They should be clear and bulging. Any cloudiness or sunken eyes are telling you to make a different selection. For filets and steaks that have been precut, the fish should be shiny and moist—any dryness or discoloration is a bad sign. Smell. Don’t be shy about asking the salesperson to smell the fish! A great specimen should have the briny smell of the sea, not an ammonia scent. Touch. The feel of a fresh product is firm and free from any slime. If there are any soft or slimy parts … red flag.
Shellfish As far as shellfish is concerned, the true safeguard (in addition to the previous points) is to select only mollusks—like clams, oysters and mussels—with tightly closed shells. No broken shells! If by chance, you prepare mollusks and a couple of them do not open, it is nature’s way of telling you not to eat those. Once you have made your selection and the fish has passed all your tests, there is much you need to do to prepare it. One of the chefs that I trained under once told me, “Spend the extra money for the fresh stuff, because you cannot make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear.” As far as cooking the fish, James Beard, known as The Father of American Cooking, came up with what he named The Canadian Fish Rule. The way it works is, no matter how you are going to prepare your fish (grill, bake, broil), cook it ten minutes for each inch of thickness at its thickest part. For example, cook a portion that is one inch thick for 10 minutes, an inch and a half for 15 minutes and three-quarters of an inch for 7 to 8 minutes. If you follow these simple steps, you are 95% guaranteed a perfect meal … just don’t overcook the your find! So, the next time you go to a seafood restaurant and they’re out of the fresh catch for the evening, rest assured that it really is a fresh catch, not something they just pulled out of the freezer!
Carolina Salt Magazine
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Camellias… { S OUTH E R N C H A R ME R } by Carolina Home & Garden
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amellias have long been a Southern favorite flower. But did you know they started out in Boston and Philadelphia and didn’t reach the South until just before the Civil War? Camellias are a wonderful plant for the garden because they ask little and give tremendous gifts back. They tolerate drought and love shade. They bloom in seasons when nothing else will. Simply put, they are surprisingly easy to grow and are a perfect flowering shrub for our Southern coastal conditions. Talk about blooms! Everything from boutonniere to dessert plate sized flowers at times of the year when all other flowering shrubs have withered away. Some varieties have sprays of more delicate flowers that fill the air with fragrance. The large, exotic blooms of many camellia varieties make a wonderful centerpiece in a simple, waterfilled vase in the dead of winter, when you need it most! Camellias are evergreen plants, keeping their dark, glossy, green leaves in the winter. The most familiar and iconic of the winter-blooming shrubs is Camellia japonica, a native of Asia that arrived in the United States in the late 1700s. Although truly thought to be Southern Belles, they were introduced in the Northeast where they were grown in conservatories. Years
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later, the tender plants made their way to the South where they could thrive outdoors yearround; they quickly gained popularity. Meanwhile in the North, a researcher discovered camellias were even more cold hardy than previously thought. In 1979, a research geneticist at the U.S. National Arboretum found a fall-blooming variety, Camellia oleifera, that withstood the harsh winters that killed other camellias. From that specimen he developed other species that are now reliably hardy in cold climates. They bloom in autumn, before frost has the opportunity to turn flowers and buds brown … even in the warm and temperate Zones 7- 9, where the plants thrive. Besides the commonly known C. japonicas (winter blooming) and C. sasanquas (fall blooming), there are about 120 more species of camellias. Just as there are many different types of maple trees— Japanese, red, silver, etc. One species of camellia is where the Southern favorite
summertime drink “sweet tea” comes from, as well as hot tea, Japanese green tea and chai. Almost all camellias are easy to grow, requiring light shade and moist, welldrained acidic soil high in organic matter. Maintaining mulch over their shallow roots also helps in growing strong specimens. Who likes to prune? If not, there are dwarf camellias. There is a camellia to fit every spot, tall, short, narrow, wide or spreading. You can even trellis camellias in place of climbing roses. If you would like to learn more about this wonderful plant and discover some exceptional varieties for our area, come on over to Carolina Home and Garden. Be sure to stroll through the nursery and see the assortment of many of the wonderful selections. Thanks to Cindy Watson of Cam Too for her contribution of information for this article.
APRIL 2013 >> www.CarolinaSalt.com
O . W. L . S . || l i n d a b e r g m a n - a l t h o u s e
King of the Fishers { T H E B E LT E D K I N G F I S H E R }
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When you’re birding and hear a distinctive loud, harsh, rattling call and a pigeon-sized bird flies out over the water, hovers and then plunges in headfirst, you have probably just witnessed a Belted Kingfisher in action. Once in a while kingfishers make their way to the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter due to tangling, concussive injuries or an overzealous hunting dog. Kingfishers can be found throughout the world’s tropical and temperate regions, although they are absent from some of the driest deserts and the polar regions. There are many types of kingfishers, but North Carolina is home to the belted variety only. Our Belted Kingfisher is approximately 13" long and 22" across with wings extended. In color they are dull blue above and white below with a bluish belt across the breast, except for the female who has rustycolored flanks and a brilliant rusty band across her chest. It’s quite the role reversal in the bird world for the female to be more brightly colored than her male counterpart. The wings and short tail-feathers are black, spotted and barred with white. The flight of this bird is rapid and its motions on the wing consist of a series of 5 or 6 flaps followed by a direct glide. The large, some say enormous, shaggy head is crested. Their feet and legs are small in comparison to their body size and are located too far back to allow for walking on the ground, which makes their feet fairly weak and only suitable for perching. Although somewhat large compared to songbirds, they weigh only five ounces. The kingfisher’s diet is mostly fish, but they will eat crayfish, shellfish, small birds, mollusks, mammals, worms, insects and lizards. They seem to particularly enjoy grasshoppers. If these food sources are not available, they will eat berries. Their characteristic habit is to sit motionless while watching for their prey, dart after it and return to their perch. They plunge dive like a pelican from as high as 50 feet, making a steep headfirst dive into the water to catch small fish. Their aim must be perfect because they hit the water with closed eyes. Then they fly to a nearby perch with their prey and beat it to death before tossing it into the air and swallowing it headfirst. After a tasty meal, they disgorge any indigestible bones and scales in pellet form. Wildlife rehabilitators learn quickly that kingfishers do not peck—they make use of their considerable jaw musculature to clamp down tightly with that long, straight bill. And clamp they can, which makes perfect sense when we remember the bird must dive into water to grab wiggly, slimy, smoothly scaled fish and hold on firmly if lunch is to be served—a weak bill wouldn’t get the job done. Their grip is almost vise-like. And to make matters worse, both mandibles are edged with tiny irregular serrations that serve
to hold slippery fish (or a rehabber’s finger) with great force. Ouch! Kingfishers make tunnel nests in riverbanks with that sturdy digging tool mounted on their faces. They burrow into the vertical walls of dirt that edge a body of water, forming tunnels from two to ten feet. The entry hole is just large enough to admit the passage of a single bird at a time (safety feature!). In these tunnels, the female lays 5 to 8 nearly round, white eggs at one-day intervals and incubation begins by both sexes with the first egg. They hatch at oneday intervals, so the young are different sizes, with the oldest being up to a week older than the youngest. The parents do not remove the nestlings’ droppings like conscientious songbirds do. Chicks apparently not only defecate in the burrow but also throw pellets containing indigestible prey parts. What a mess they must be living in by the end of the nesting period! So we learn that kingfisher parents are not good housekeepers. When food is scarce, only the older nestlings survive and there is much competition for the regurgitant food brought by the parents. About 23 days after hatching, the chicks are fledged and the parents begin teaching them hunting skills. Although you might see a youngster begging on a branch, you will probably never see a parent feeding it. Once they are in hunting homeschool, it’s all tough love! However, if threatened by a predator, mom has been known to drop fluttering onto the water, feigning injury to entice an intruder to wade or swim after her. All the while, her mate, perched on a branch or clinging to the edge of the bank, jerks his tail, erects his crest, vocalizes with angry intensity and then springs off to pass and repass the threat with his most intimidating cry to fend off the dangerous intruder. By 10 days after fledging the young are skillfully able to retrieve small fish. That means the parents’ job is done and the youngsters are driven out of their territory. Studies suggest that the parents are monogamous, with the same pair coming together each breeding season and returning to the same burrow to breed and roost for many years in succession. So bonding occurs with the adults but with the kids, not so much! Nest predators in our area will be raccoons or snakes and both adult and juvenile kingfishers need to be on the lookout for the capable Cooper’s Hawk. North Carolina Belted Kingfishers overwinter here and will be joined by migrating kingfishers from Canada and the New England region who are seeking ice-free areas to hunt. This species, although elusive and difficult to study, is listed as one of the top 20 priority avian species of concern.
We invite you to drop by to say hello and take a tour of our facility at 100 Wildlife Way in Newport on Tuesdays, Thursdays or Saturdays at 2 p.m. for the nominal fee of $3 per person (carried infants are free). OWLS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to promoting and protecting native wildlife. Donations of supplies from our wish list or good ol’ fashion money are greatly appreciated. If you’d like to volunteer at the shelter, contact our volunteer coordinator at 252-240-1200, stop in to fill out a screening application or visit our website and click on the “How Can You Help” link for a copy of the volunteer application. Need a guest speaker? We can do that too! Our non-releasable education animals jump at the chance to be the star of a getting to know your wildlife program! Come see what we do and how you Can help us do it!
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ks hel ge, w f o lar ass y of a r foot. m y la ril n bod rima uscu sed i nd e p m u h T ists ack h is ea s -bl s evich . n e o fl s c yish se , rs, c he gra e den , fritte od dis brook s t m s Th ders eafo We ariu w rs ett . Aqu cho othe m m C
Q.: Are conchs and whelks the same thing? What do they eat?
A. These large marine snails look and behave much alike, but they belong to different families. Their ranges and diets are also different. Whelks are . E by of N found in temperate waters. Conchs are found in warmer, o y s ot Ph urte tropical waters. Both are voracious feeders and relentless o c hunters. In North Carolina we have whelks, which are often mistakenly identified as conchs. The most common whelks are knobbed, lightning and channeled whelks. The attractive, spiral-shaped shells of these bottom feeders are much sought after by beachcombers. Whelks are almost exclusively carnivores (conchs are herbivores). Although slow movers—about four meters an hour—whelks are constantly on the prowl, slurping up crustaceans, marine worms, carrion and fellow bivalve mollusks like clams and oysters. Whelks have gills, a head with eyes and two pairs of tentacles containing organs of touch, taste and smell. Depending on the species, they can measure from a few tenths of an inch to as much as two feet in length. Sliding along just beneath the sand on their muscular foot, whelks are drawn to prey by odor. Detecting a clam, the stalker makes its way toward CONTINUED ON P40 ››
Information provided by the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. The state operates three public aquariums; one in Pine Knoll Shores, another at Fort Fisher and a third on Roanoke Island. The aquariums are administered by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources and are designed to inspire appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments. For more information about the Aquariums, log onto www.ncaquariums.com or call 1-800-832-FISH.
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m i c h a e l s t a n l e y || SOUTH E RN GARD E N
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or many people, gardening can seem like a daunting task. But it’s not be as difficult as you think and the rewards of stunning ornamental planters and fresh vegetables as close as you back doorstep are well worth the effort. If you are one of those people who is intimidated at the thought of having a garden, I would like to offer some encouragement. There are two prerequisites for success in gardening: sustained interest and information. Green thumbs are not born, but made through experience and observation. My suggestion for the first-time gardener is to start small. In no time you will be growing container gardens will knock your socks off. One way to do this is by growing in containers. Container
gardening is also a good option for people with limited space. First you want to choose a container. It needs to be large enough to accommodate the plants at maturity. It also needs to have adequate drainage. Don’t be afraid to be creative! Anything that can hold soil and allow proper drainage can be used as a container … even an old washtub or wheelbarrow. You may use decorative ceramic, plastic or resin pots or choose inexpensive black nursery pots. Container gardening can fit any budget. The size of the container you use will depend on the plant. For vegetables such as lettuce, radishes and herbs, you want at least an 8" pot. For vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers
and pole beans, plan on at least a 7–10 gallon pot. When using old pots it is important to clean them before planting. Use six ounces of bleach in a gallon of water as a cleaning solution; make sure you rinse thoroughly with clean water. Never use garden soil in a container. It will compact, causing poor drainage and air circulation around the roots. I also warn against using cheap potting soils. They usually are too heavy and don’t drain well and your plants will not perform well. We want you to be successful, so start with a good quality soilless potting mix. (Plan on changing the potting soil every two years.) Most potting mixes don’t contain nutrients; those that do won’t have enough to last the entire season. When planting, be sure to use a slowrelease fertilizer to keep your plants healthy. Water-soluble plant food can also be used. Spacing requirements for your plants can be found on the plant’s tag or seed packet. Use that information to determine how many plants you can use per container. When planting mixed containers, be sure that the plants you choose have similar requirements for light and water. This can be especially important in ornamental container gardens. Watering is the most important aspect of container gardening. Check your containers daily (twice a day on hot, windy days). Test the soil with your finger and water only if it feels dry. When you water your containers, you want to water thoroughly until water seeps out of the pot’s drainage holes. Check for insects and disease problems periodically. Early detection is key in keeping your plants healthy. If you love the thought of gardening but don’t think you have a green thumb, the friendly staff at S&H Feed & Garden Supply is available to answer all your questions. So come on and get those
Container Gardening Basics Don’t think you have a green thumb? Why not give container gardening a try? It’s a great way for beginners to open up the world of gardening.
www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
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Boatbuilding
Challenge B y Vic F asolino
If you are into boats, fun, history and competition, you really need to spend a spring afternoon at the Beaufort Boat Building Challenge. On the first Saturday in May for the past five years, teams of two are given a set of boat plans, a stack of wood and four hours to construct a 12-foot rowboat. The starting gun sounds at 11 a.m. But just assembling the boat in four hours is not enough—the completed boats are then raced in the waters of Taylor’s Creek. Competitors are awarded points for the fastest construction time, the best-quality boat and the best race time. The results are not always as expected. Some boats get completed… some don’t. Some are true works of craftsmanship…some have two left sides. Some are held together with fasteners….some have a lot of caulking. Some oars break…some teams swim. But there is always a winner! The Challenge is held under a big white party tent. There are hot dogs for sale by our local Boy Scout Troop 9, a rowboat raffle and activities for children. Since the day is always the same as the North Carolina Maritime Museum Boat Show, you can watch the excitement of the start in the tent and then stroll the rows of beautiful traditional wooden boats on display along Front Street. The Watercraft Center will also be open with displays and nautical crafts. Be sure to return to theChallenge tent as the first teams blow their “finished!” whistles. The first boats are usually completed in about three hours with the current record at just a tad over 2 hours and 33 minutes. You will want to be on the boardwalk for the rowing races as some of those boats that were finished first surely won’t get many points for seaworthiness. The sponsor group for the Beaufort Challenge is the North Carolina Boat Building Heritage Foundation whose mission is to preserve the long standing traditions of wooden boat construction in Carteret County and After the boats are built, they’re raced. Some are true works of to promote the highly useful carpentry skills needed in boat construction. Net proceeds from the Challenge craftsmanship. Some … not so much (Some teams swim back to the are used to provide scholarships to deserving docks). Stop by the Beaufort Boatbuilding Challenge for a day of students. This year, full scholarships will be provided fun and excitement, with exhibits and activities for everyone. to two students to pursue Marine Programs at both
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Carteret Community College and Cape Fear College. High school teams are also a significant part of the Challenge. Croatan, West Carteret and East Carteret High Schools will be sending teams to compete. Each of these schools now offers a boat construction class for which the Heritage Foundation provides the materials and it is from these class students that competitors are chosen. If you are thinking that building a boat in three hours requires some homework, you are quite right! Each year the Beaufort Challenge holds a Demonstration Session led by previous www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
competitors to show what ideas and tricks they employed in a previous Challenge. This year’s Demonstration Session will be led by the 2-time competitors, Tom Russell and John Coffman and will be held on March 30th at the NC Maritime Museum, 315 Front St, Beaufort, from 9:30am to noon. This free demonstration is open to anyone and particularly useful to those considering entering the May 4th Challenge. The Beaufort Waterfront has always had a heritage of boating and boatbuilding and you won’t have a better chance to watch it come more frantically alive then on May 4th.
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“Scotty” was displayed on the caller ID. It is funny to watch in Otway talking to the preacher and getting everything set up. It’s the process that follows a ringing cell phone in this new age of going to be at the Welcome Home Baptist Church in Otway.” technology, always starting with a glance at the screen. I listened in surprise as he went on. “Hey Buddy,” I said, answering the phone open. “Well, I was just going to call you in a minute and ask you to be a “I am single. That’s right, I am really single again,” Scotty replied. witness and sort of my best man, but you will be the only one there, “What’s going on this time?” I responded with a heavy dose of besides the preacher and his wife. It is going to be at nine o’clock cynicism. “Scotty, I have heard that from you a million times.” on Saturday.” “I am serious this time, I ain’t kidding you.” Explaining what had changed, Scotty told me that he and Susan Scotty and I had been through this many times. We often used had talked and decided to give it a shot, either get married or break to commiserate about how women always try to change a man. up for good. “I just love that woman so much, I told her we just Scotty and I have the wanderlust bug in common. We both suffered needed to go ahead and get married.” failure in our first marriages. In both “Well, congratulations Scotty. Susan of our cases, it was the same qualities is a fine woman and you are lucky she that attracted our first wives to us that is willing to put up with you! I would be ultimately caused the failure of the honored to witness, as a matter of fact; I marriage. We are both are capable of a wouldn’t miss it for the world.” strong and loving relationship, as long I was truly pleased that they were as our women can put up with our need doing it. Susan is great for him; she to wander (not in the biblical sense, in gives him a little balance. I just hope she the literal sense). The last thing either knows what she is getting into, because one of us can be accused of is being a keeping up with Scotty is like chasing homebody. the Tasmanian devil when he is spinning “I just can’t be the kind of man she like a tornado. wants. I told her that my truck is leaving Saturday morning the alarm on my every weekend, whether I am in it or phone sounded at seven a.m. I have no not,” Scotty lamented. idea why I set it on the siren alarm; it It is these common characteristics that scares me awake every time it goes off. cement the strange friendship I have I rolled out of bed, quickly shaved and with Scotty; we are so alike at a primal showered. level, that it overcomes the differences It was a beautiful April day with a in our backgrounds and life experiences. light north wind and not a cloud in the “Well, I am sorry to hear that. I hope sky. I left to head east after grabbing JAMES ROSEMOND everything works out.” I tried to comfort a quick cup of coffee, cruising down him in some pathetic way. That is tough Highway 70 through Beaufort. It was a to do with him. He lets life’s troubles roll wonderful drive, the sun was bright and off his back like water on a duck. the huge azaleas that adorned the little brick ranch houses along the “Don’t you worry about me; I am just moving on. Are we diving highway were in full bloom. Crossing over the North River Bridge this weekend?” around 8:30, I passed commercial fishermen standing knee-deep in I told Scotty that I would love to, but that we needed to watch the the shallow water, throwing their cast nets on the schools of mullet weather … it didn’t look all that great. I called him later in the week. churning the surface of the water. Just past the end of the bridge and “Heeey Buuuddy, what are you doing?” he answered. I could hear the “Welcome to Otway” sign was my left-hand turn toward the the roar of wind and loud pipes and immediately knew he was on his little Baptist Church where the union of my two friends was about motorcycle. How he heard the phone ring, I will never understand. to take place. “The question is Scotty, what are YOU doing?” I wondered how the community had gotten its name. It seems “I am on my bike heading Down East from Morehead; let me call obvious for so many of the Down East communities with names like you back when I stop.” Sealevel, Atlantic and Straits, which are descriptive in nature. “Absolutely, call me back,” I responded. I am not real fond of Then it dawned on me. One day long ago, two fishermen must people driving cars and trucks while talking on their cell phone, but have come close to each other on the north river and one inquired doing so while on a motorcycle is just plain dangerous. as to where the other one lived. Down Easterners are never one to I retreated to my desk and placed the phone nearby, waiting waste an unnecessary word and the other fisherman just pointed patiently for it to ring. It only took ten minutes over and said, “Otway.” “I was just getting ready to call you, buddy,” he said. Down a long gravel driveway lined with tall old pines was the little “Well, me and Susan are getting married this weekend. I was just
A match made in Heaven
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Massage Therapy : A Modern, Healthy Choice B y G ary T. H ardison
As we take inventory of the past few years, it is evident to all that we as a country have been through some challenging times. The economy, the stock market fluctuations, the housing crisis, businesses going under, international and domestic terrorist attacks, violence … They have concerned and affected us all and have kept us all on pins and needles. Sometimes our usual ways of coping aren’t enough to help us manage our health. We find ourselves stressed out, burned out, exhausted to the point of not handling our day-to-day activities in positive ways. While we are focused on managing these activities we can easily lose our focus on our most valuable asset of all: our health. We tend to put many things in front of our health, with the intention of doing something good and positive for ourselves. If we actually did act at this point, from a preventive standpoint, that would be great. Usually, we put it off, finding ourselves back in our normal way of life. Our health issues or pain take the back seat once again. That’s where massage therapy can be a good choice to help us move in a new and different direction. While there are many components of a comprehensive health care plan, massage therapy is considered to be a front-runner. It makes an impact fast and without any side effects at all. With all the medications that are being prescribed today (with all their potential side effects), massage therapy is by far one of the best things to consider for relief from pain and the stresses of life.
www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
After you decide on massage, there are many options from which to choose. If you are suffering from subacute, acute or chronic pain or recovering from surgery or a severe accident, there are many options to consider to get you the results you want. Medical Massage. This type of massage involves treatment that is appropriate to treating disease, chronic pain and injury. It requires a firm background in pathology and working closely with a physical therapist or physician with consent. Deep tissue work is used. Myofascial Release/Deep Tissue. This involves three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement to the face in order to release the restrictions which present as knots or adhesions near the musculature. It is very effective in relieving cervical pain, back pain, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, neurological dysfunction, restriction of motion, chronic pain and headaches. Reflexology. Reflexology is based on an ancient Chinese therapy. Trained practitioners are able to stimulate the body’s organs and relieve areas of congestion by applying pressure to reflex points, primarily on the feet and hands. It is great for increased relaxation and to stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids. It is very useful in treating emotional and stress-related illnesses. Pregnancy Massage. This helps reduce the discomforts of pregnancy, as well as alleviating concerns and enhancing the physiological and emotional well-being of
the mother and fetus. It can help facilitate labor, shortening labor times and easing pain and anxiety. It is recommended to have a physician’s referral prior to therapy. Myofascial Alignment. This is a holistic approach to relief of back and neck pain based on the concepts and principles of Rolfing, osteopathy and related physical medicine. It is focused on detecting and correcting strain patterns to prevent back/neck pain. This technique involves deep tissue work with assisted stretching and non-force spinal alignment. Bamboo Massage. Hollow organically treated bamboo canes are warmed and used at room temperature in a general massage session. The cane is heated and is rolled over the muscles to address knots and to help one to relax to a deeper level. Therapeutic Chair Massage. This type of treatment is performed with the client fully clothed sitting comfortably in a specially designed chair. It uses both body and somatic techniques, including Swedish massage and shiatsu, in many different types of settings, like businesses, airports and street fairs. This is just a short list of the hundreds of varieties of massage that are offered today. In many cases, the treatments or therapies can be integrated and customized for each client based on his or her personal set of needs. As we continue to learn new ways to manage stress and develop new ways of coping, let’s incorporate massage therapy as a integral part of our health care plan.
Gary T. Hardison is a state licensed and nationally certified Massage Therapist, who has been practicing for nearly 10 years. He is currently working his magic at A Flair for Hair Day Spa in Cedar Point.
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F LAT W AT E RS PADDLING || k i m w o r r e l l
Spring SUP Equipment Check ! It’s time to gear up for the Spring paddle season! By gear up, we mean get your paddling equipment ready to hit the water. First, take a good look at what equipment you have and what you want to do with it this coming season. Look at the overall condition of your SUP or kayak and determine if it’s still waterworthy. Sometimes we let our equipment sit over the winter season; it gets knocked around a bit too much and might be in need of repair. Also, if you’ve changed what you do with your equipment, you might consider buying something better suited to your current activity. If you’re SUP surfing instead of SUP racing, you might need a new SUP. Whitewater kayaks don’t work as well in the ocean, so if you’re changing from one to the other you might need to re-equip. Make sure you have the right gear for the right activity! Kayaks. Make sure that all fittings are in good condition. Put some stress on them to make certain they can handle the hot summer months coming up. Make sure your storage holes are clean and that the covers all fit properly. Check your bungees to see if you need to replace or tighten them. All of your eyelets should be still in place and able to take the stress of cords and snaps. Check your seats to make sure they still work properly, move to adjust, slide or whatever your particular seat is designed to do. Also, it’s a good time to decide if you need to upgrade to a comfier seat. If your kayak has a rudder, put it up on stands and test out the rudder cords. Check the back-and-forth motion and the ease at which it can be deployed and brought back up. Also check out your foot pedals or other rudder controls. Make sure the foot pedals still adjust, if they’re adjustable. Check your drain plug to ensure it’s not stuck or worn out. Check for dry rot in any foam areas. Always check before and after use for severe scrapes and cuts that might need repair.
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Take a good look at your PFD and make sure it’s still in serviceable condition. The best way to do this is to try it on and test the straps for smooth operation. While you’re at it, make certain you have a working whistle attached. Test out your paddle and make sure it didn’t get warped or stuck in a position you don’t like. A little spray lubricant will usually loosen up frozen paddles. If you have a paddle leash, test it out. Test your whole rig in shallow water if you can. SUPs. The materials your paddleboard is made of will determine what you need to check for. Epoxy and fiberglass: Check for dings or other damage. If the paint is just chipped off, you’re probably fine. If the ding went into the fiberglass, get it fixed before you put it back in the water. If you don’t, it will absorb water—then it can easily become costly (or impossible) to repair. Look for discoloration to determine if your board has been exposed to too much heat. Check for soft spots as well. This could be a sign that your board took a big hit; the fiberglass might be cracked. Plastic or rotomolded boards: Check it like a kayak. For inflatables, fully inflate and check with water for bubbles. Ensure that your inflating equipment and backpack are serviceable. As with kayaks, check your bungees for tautness. Check any areas that might be built in to your board for attaching leashes, coolers, bungees and cameras for leakage. You can do this by running water over them and looking for bubbles. Check your pads for deterioration and comfort. Don’t forget to check your PFD for serviceability and comfort. This might be a good time for a replacement. Also, if you carry some type of hydration system, double check it for cleanliness and leaks. Check your paddles, dry bags, gloves, booties, cameras, hydration systems, all cords and bungees and clips for CONTINUED ON P42 ››
APRIL 2013 >> www.CarolinaSalt.com
There’s treasure buried in your mortgage payments! Ever dream of wandering a beach and finding an X that marks the spot? To find real buried treasure, you need to look in unusual places. Let’s look in some spots you may not have considered. A secure berth was a pirate’s dream; their own special place to moor up without worries. Wouldn’t it be nice to secure your own personal berth by paying off your home mortgage? Is there a way to speed up the process? Let’s dig deep! We will use the Federal Housing Finance Agency average home loan of $200,000 and current 30-year mortgage interest rate (around 3.5%) for this example. The monthly principal and interest payment will be $898.09. At 18 years and 10 months, half of your mortgage is paid off. Assuming your house holds its initial value, you will have added $100,000 of equity to your initial down payment. At the end of seven years (the average time an American family lives in the same house), almost 15% of your mortgage is paid off … $30,000 of additional equity. How much extra can you afford to pay? Last month we saw how to dig up an extra $160 per month by regulating a treat, discontinuing something you’re not using and by not paying for something you get for free. Let’s start by applying that $160. Principal and interest payment will remain at $898.09. Now pay in that additional $160 per month against the principal each month (read your mortgage agreement for your lender’s terms on extra principal payments). The half-paid point is now 13 years and 9 months. At the seven-year-average-stay point, you will have paid off almost 23% of your mortgage—over $46,000 of additional equity and in 23 years you will have paid off your entire 30-year mortgage! Congratulations on lopping seven years off your mortgage. Have more available cash and want to pay off sooner? Double your principal payment. Your mortgage invoice should break down your payment into interest and principal. Your very first payment is $583.33 for interest and $314.76 for principal.
{ BY KEN HUNT, CPA }
(Although your payment stays the same, the split changes every month with interest going down and principal increasing.) If you kick in an additional $314.76 on your normal first payment, doubling your principal payment, your second payment ($898.09) payment will break down as $581.50 for interest and $316.59 for principal. Now double that $316.59 with your second payment. If you keep doubling the principal payment, you will have paid off your mortgage in 15 years and 1 month, almost half the time! The one caveat in this strategy is that your matching amount goes up each month by ~0.6%. This doesn’t seem like much, but you start by matching $314.76—by payment 180, you’re matching $891.52. A side benefit is the amount money you save on interest over the years. Paying off in 30 years will cost you $123,312.15 in interest. In the “add $160” example, interest expense drops to $91,157.58. In the “double pay on principal,” interest expense drops to $61,891.59. Want to pay down your mortgage faster? First, find the extra money in your budget. This usually involves trading off. If you have a smaller income, make small cuts. If you have a larger income, divert money from savings or other investments. Second, come up with a goal. For smaller incomes, the goal might coming up with an extra amount per month; for larger incomes the goal could be the year you want to be paid off. Third, develop a payment strategy. You might also apply your yearly raises, bonuses or investment earnings to the principal or even apply windfalls like cash gifts or an inheritance. By using your treasure wisely now, you will secure your future berth and free up the money spent on a mortgage payment sooner. Remember, peace of mind is the real buried treasure!
This photograph by Carla Stevens, along with the work of other photographers, will be shown April 1–30.
April Art Exhibit Three members of The Coastal Photographers, Dennis Szeba, Kevin Geraghty and Carla Stevens, will be exhibiting images captured at the aquarium and its surrounds at the Emerald Isle Rec Center April 1–30. A reception will be held Thursday, April 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. and the public is invited. The Coastal Photographers are a small group of serious photographers who meet once a month to discuss work. Through critiquing each other’s images, they provide individual insight into the stories and impact of their work. Both refreshing and illuminating, this challenging learning experience is invaluable. Dennis Szeba started a graphic arts business in North Carolina specializing in product photography and advertising design. His work has been widely published. His North Carolina clients include IBM, AT&T, NCSU, Coastal Carolina Community College, Albert J. Ellis Airport and Onslow Memorial Hospital. Now semi-retired, he currently photographs subjects that appeal to him on an artistic level. Visit him online at www.szebapho.com. A volunteer with the Emerald Isle Sea Turtle Protection Program and the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, Kevin Geraghty has been actively photographing and exhibiting his work since 2006 when he first started photographing loggerhead turtle babies. Kevin’s photos can be seen and purchased from his website at www.keving.smugmug.com. A portion of the income from sales of turtle photos is donated to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center on Topsail Island. Much of the work by Carla Stevens would be characterized as “people photography,” best defined through abstracts, motion and a strong use of color. Her aquarium images show a different approach, although any life captured while swimming through water can take on a delightful abstract quality. Visit her online at www.carlastevens.com.
The Best (Free) Weekend in Beaufort! On May 10 and 11, the town of Beaufort will hold the 25th Annual Beaufort Music Festival. Since 1988, this independent event which takes place on Front Street in downtown Beaufort has attracted a diverse range of statewide and international talent. Acts such as Steep Canyon Rangers, Tift Merritt and The Avett Brothers are just a few of the artists at the festival. Throughout the year, a very small but dedicated committee works together to organize and schedule fundraising events and activities. These fundraisers help raise money for the festival, which traditionally takes place the second weekend in May. One of the best aspects of the Beaufort Music Festival is that it is a free festival that serves to promote town awareness as well as Beaufort’s artistic and cultural history. For headliners this year, the Beaufort Music Festival is proud to present Holy Ghost Tent Revival, Friday May 10 and Robert Randolph & The Family Band, Saturday May 11. The 2013 Battle of The Bands winners Six Pack of Gentlemen and The Spread, along with many other supporting acts, will be a part of the musical entertainment available on the Beaufort Waterfront. For more information please visit: www.beaufortmusicfestival. com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ BeaufortMusicFestival or follow them on Twitter at www.twitter. com/Beaufortmusic (@Beaufortmusic).
Salt it’s easy to advertise! c a l l u s at 2 5 2 - 7 2 3 - 7 6 2 8 www. c a r o l i n a s a lt. c o m
Foster, known as the “Father of American Music,” was a songwriter known for his parlor and minstrel music. He wrote over 200 songs.
BHA’s Living History Program:
The Life and Music of Stephen Foster The Beaufort Historical Association’s Living History Program will feature a presentation on the life and music of American composer Stephen Collins Foster, Saturday, April 13 at 2 p.m. in the c.1796 Courthouse on the Beaufort Historic Site, 100 Block Turner Street, Beaufort. The narration about Foster’s life will be presented by Bob Malone and interspersed with a musical selection of some of Stephen Foster’s most popular songs performed by Harmony Creek. Foster, known as the “Father of American Music,” was a songwriter known for his parlor and minstrel music. He wrote over 200 songs. Some of the most popular include Oh! Susanna, Camptown Races, Old Folks at Home, My Old Kentucky Home, Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair, Old Black Joe and Massa’s in the Cold Ground, among many others. Many of his compositions remain popular today. Other programs and events taking place in the 2013 Living History Program include a Children’s Quilling Workshop, Adult Depression Bead Workshop, Children’s Paper Making Workshop, Children’s Colonial History Program, Children’s Pine Needle Workshop, Adult Pine Needle Workshop, Knotless Netting Workshop, Weaving Workshop and more. As part of the Beaufort Historical Association’s mission to educate and preserve history there will be no fee for the presentation on the life and music of American composer Stephen Collins Foster, but seating is limited and reservations are recommended. For dates, times and more information about the presentation or to reserve your seat, please call the Beaufort Historical Association at 252-7285225. More information on this and other Living History Programs can also be found by online at www.beauforthistoricsite.org.
the beaufort historical association:
Publick Day at the Historic Site On Saturday, April 20, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the grounds of the Beaufort Historic Site will become an old-fashioned marketplace. It’s Publick Day in Beaufort, which kicks off the summer season for the Beaufort Historical Association. As in years past, the grounds of the historic site at 100 Block Turner Street will recreate “Publick Times” when colonial merchants set up shop outside during court sessions. Vendors will be selling antiques, collectibles, arts and crafts, wood crafts, furniture, handmade jewelry, baskets, pottery and much more. Fashioned after Williamsburg of the 1700s when the General Court was in session, Publick Day then gave visitors from far and wide an opportunity to come to town to see and be seen, conduct court business, shop, gossip, dine and dance. Just as it was years ago, today’s visitors will also be treated to shopping and food. “Publick Day is a lot of fun for both vendors and shoppers,” says BHA Executive Director, Patricia Suggs. “It’s a great place to shop for one-of-a-kind handmade items and gifts. There is always something new and different. We really enjoy seeing what the Carteret County Master Gardeners have to offer with their wide array of native flowers and plants for sale to get all our spring gardens going.” While on the Historic Site, be sure to stop in the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery, Carteret County’s oldest art gallery, to see the beautiful artwork by Beaufort Wine & Food featured artist Mike Hoyt. Originally from Florida, Hoyt now makes his home in North Carolina and Taos, New Mexico. Hoyt’s painting career has taken him from his native Southeast and the American Southwest to France, Spain, Portugal, South America, New England and the www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
Pacific Northwest. He studied design at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and worked with several noted impressionists at the Cape Cod School of Art and the Scottsdale Artists School. In recent years, Hoyt has become a popular workshop instructor in the Southeast. Hoyt’s painting, Fruits de Mer, will be on display at the Gallery and is the featured painting in the 9th Annual Beaufort Wine & Food Weekend limited edition poster. The original painting will be available as an auction item at the Beaufort Wine and Food Celebrity Gala on April 26. Images from this painting will be used for all the advertising and brochures for the weekend. The Mattie King Davis Art Gallery will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vendor space is still available for Publick Day. Applications are being accepted to rent a 10' x 10' space for $25 if you are a BHA member and $40 for non-members. Space is first-come, first served, rain or shine and non-refundable. Vendors must supply their own tables and tents if needed. All proceeds from Publick Day go towards the ongoing restoration efforts and educational programs of the Beaufort Historical Association. For more information on Publick Day, call 252-728-5225, 1-800-575-7483 or visit www.beauforthistoricsite.org.
Carolina Salt Magazine
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Hey Boaters! Do You Know What You Don’t Know? Did you know that it’s illegal to tie your boat to a channel marker? Can you tell the difference between a marker designating safe water on both sides and a marker indicating a hazard to navigation? Do you know the proper way to fuel your boat, avoiding the possibility of a static electricity discharge (and an explosion)? Does your family know that any person under the age of 26 must successfully complete an approved boating safety education course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10HP or greater? (NC G.S. 75A-16.2)
For those who lack knowledge, a boating motto could well become: “Boating can be dangerous, costly and miserable.” So, if you are new to boating or need a refresher, take a course that will give you knowledge and confidence. Boating is fun … we’ll show you how! If have answered no to any of these questions, then join the ranks of the many boat owners who think they are safe when they power up that brand-new boat or old faithful and head out on the open water, but have not had a boating course. Fortunately, the United States Power Squadrons® offers America’s Boating Course (ABC), which enables boat owners to learn the ways of the sea and gain confidence in safe boating practices. It is also a great refresher before the coming boating season. Fort Macon Sail and Power Squadron will offer the twoday ABC Boating Course on Friday, April 19, from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday, April 20, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It is approved for NC boater safety education certification. The course begins with nautical terms, types of boats, basic construction and propulsion, effects on sea worthiness and other issues that will help you to select the proper boat for your needs. Boat handling instruction includes an explanation of your responsibilities as your boat’s owner: required and recommended equipment, fueling, turning, backing, passing, handling rough water and other adverse conditions. Learn about your legal responsibility for your wake, homeland security measures, licensing and operation of marine radios, federal and state regulations and a myriad of other basics. The ABC class also includes the basics of navigation and piloting, use of charts and compass, recognition of navigation www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
markers and the use of sound signals. It also covers personal watercraft operation. Other classes offered this spring include Piloting, GPS/VHF Seminars, Reading a Chart/Coastal Navigation Seminars and the Seamanship Course. An exciting addition to the curriculum is Boat Operator Certification, including on-the-water operation of your boat or a squadron boat. For a description of these courses, including cost and location, please visit www. fmsps.org under the Boater Education tab, email SEO@fmsps. org or call 252-822-0022. Membership in the Power Squadrons opens the door to many social events with fellow boaters and is a great way to learn best cruising venues along the Crystal Coast. Find out how at http:// www.fmsps.org.There are frequent cruises to local destinations, planned and led by experienced captains, all of whom are fully educated in the fundamentals of boating. It is a great way to learn the local waters enjoying the camaraderie of fellow boaters. You can join our boating activities and follow us in your boat or ride in a member’s boat. Last year’s destinations (soon to be updated) are listed at the above website under boating activities. To locate a squadron near you, visit www.usps.org/cgi-binat/tools/pages.cgi?locates. To find a class or seminar near your ZIP code, visit http://www.usps.org/cgi-bin-nat/eddept/cfind. cgi?C.
Carolina Salt Magazine
35
Presented by North Carolina Coastal Federation
April 22–26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 3609 Highway 24, Ocean
10% discount for members
Native Plant Sale
GO NATIVE!
The North Carolina Coastal Federation has long touted our native plants—those hardy trees, shrubs, grasses and flowers that grow with ease even under the hottest summer sun. With the increasing popularity of these rugged yet attractive plants, the federation is extending their traditional native plant selling season. The Native Plant Sale kicks off during Earth Day week at the federation’s Ocean headquarters, located about halfway between Morehead City and Swansboro. Plants will be available from April 22–26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and April 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Federation members will be extended a 10% discount. Plants will continue to be available throughout the summer and fall as quantities last. Sale coordinator Rose Rundell explains: “We’ll be offering the most popular native plants during this time. These plants are sometimes hard to find, so while the sale is a fundraiser for the federation it’s also providing a great service to people who want to improve their landscaping.” Rose suggests that people call beforehand if they are looking for a specific plant to be sure it’s available or that it can be ordered.
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Carolina Salt Magazine
Native plants provide a beautiful, hardy, drought-resistant, low-maintenance landscape that benefits the environment. Once established, they save time and money by eliminating or significantly reducing the need for fertilizers, pesticides and water. Native plants have evolved over thousands of years in a particular region. Coastal natives, for instance, have adapted to the climate of the region and will thrive with less care. Native plants provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species, turning your yard into a haven for critters. Many of the most popular native plants will be offered throughout the season at the Coastal Federation’s headquarters. Plant information and care instructions are available for each plant. One of the most popular herbs today in both North America and Europe is the showy purple coneflower. These plants are among those that will be available at the Coastal Federation’s native plant sale. The daisy-like flower heads are very attractive with rose purple rays and large, cone-shaped purple brown centers. The long lasting flowers, borne on long, stiff stems, are perfect in cut flower arrangements and well suited for drying. They
Plants offered include American beautyberry Atlantic white cedar Bald cypress Purple coneflower Eastern sweetshrub Highbush blueberry
Little blue stem Live oak Purple muhly Red bay Sea ox-eye Sweet bay Virginia iris Water tupelo Wax myrtle Yaupon
usually bloom from June to August. Native Americans used the coneflower to treat insect and snake bites and as a toothache remedy. Today, taken orally, extracts from purple coneflower roots and leaves are reported to stimulate the immune system and increase resistance to infections. In Europe more than 200 pharmaceutical products are made from the extracts. The coneflower’s benefits are extended to wildlife too. Butterflies sip nectar from purple coneflowers all summer long as well as bees. The seed heads provide food for birds. For more than 30 years, the NC Coastal Federation has worked to safeguard our coastal rivers, creeks, sounds and beaches. They are the state’s only nonprofit organization focused on protecting and restoring the coast of North Carolina. They have regional offices based in Manteo, Ocean and Wrightsville Beach. APRIL 2013 >> www.CarolinaSalt.com
In Theatre: ‘The Marvelous Wonderettes’ The Marvelous Wonderettes is a delightful trip down memory lane, a flashback to 1958. It is Springfield High School’s prom night and The Marvelous Wonderettes will showcase the pop hits of the 50s. Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy and Suzy, are The Wonderettes, four best friends with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts and voices to match. The girls will start out with Mr. Sandman and Lollipop, both popularized by the Chordettes and move on to other 1950 classics, many of which are done in wonderful four-part harmony. The audience is then whisked away to the girls’ ten-year class reunion in Act II. The Wonderettes perform high-octane renditions of classic 60s tunes and we see how their friendships have changed and endured. The girls open Act II with Heatwave and continue to treat the audience to some great oldies: You Don’t Own Me, Son of a Preacher Man, R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Rescue Me and many more. Written and created by Roger Bean, The Marvelous Wonderettes is directed by Judy Long. The show is produced through special arrangement with Steele Spring Productions. WHERE ���� Masonic Theater, 514 Hancock Street, New Bern WHEN ������ April 26–26, May 2–4 at 8 p.m. April 28, May 5 at 3 p.m. TICKETS �� $15 in advance ($18 at the door); may be purchased at the Bank of the Arts, Cook House, 308 George Street, New Bern or by calling 252-638-2577. For more information, please visit RiverTowne’s website at www.RiverTownePlayers.com. www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
Parrot Heads
» by KE N STONE
Spring has sprung!
The beginning of the warm season … YAY! It’s gonna keep getting better and better as we ramp up for the coming season! Parrot Heads started out the merry month of March with our PHriday PHlocking paying homage to St. Patrick with lots of PHolks a-wearin’ the green and getting happy feet to an Irish jig or two. Plenty of games, great food and laughter as usual. Even had a 50/50 raffle with Rowdy Rene choosing to send the winning pot on to a family in need. A crew of 22 Parrot Heads woke up Saturday morning to help out the NC Coastal Federation in cleaning up and trail maintenance at Hoop Pole Creek. The best find this year was, oddly, a full set of men’s clothing—go figure? Anyway, Parrot Heads, Federation folks and other volunteers left the environs around the creek looking pristine and natural, a good deed. On to the big event for the month: the Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Day Festival, where we set up our booth complete with a 22-item Riff Raff Raffle of goodies donated by generous Parrot Heads and local merchants, with all funds going to the Carteret County Domestic Violence Program. There were lots of happy raffle winners announced. As usual, we had a rip-roaring good time (that’s what we do, Party With a Purpose) while raising $964 for the Domestic Violence Program. Now $964 seemed like an odd number, so we threw in a few extra bucks to round it up to $1000—we know the program can put the funds to good use. We set up our pirate cutout for free photo ops, promoted the Parrot Head Club, signed up new members, gave out a bunch of green beads and bling, had Party On the Parrot getting photos with kids and adults alike, saw some green hair coloring come out and joined in the general great time. The town does an incredible job of pulling this huge and festive event together and we’re always happy to participate in it. As April flows in we’ve got a busy calendar, so come on out and join us for some community spirited fun: 4/5 ���� PHirst PHriday PHlocking with the theme of “Scavenger Skills” to get PHolks pumped for the next day’s town-wide Scavenger Hunt and tunes by Scearce & Ketner. 4/6 ���� Town-wide Scavenger Hunt (registration at The Emerald Club) 4/11 �� New member welcome and social at Senor Dick’s Piano Bar 4/13 �� Adopt-a-Highway Spring Litter Pickup
And while you’re scheduling things, you should remember to wish a big Happy Birthday to those Parrot Heads who made their debut into the world during the month of April. They be: Phyllis Harke, Jordan Williams, Susan Johnson, Wendy Merrill, Steve Hoyle, Ty “Water Master” Cannon, Annie Hughes, Matt Teachey, Mystie Turnage, Russell Burgess, Valerie Johnson, Matt “Mr. E. Club” Morel, James “El Presidente” Hicks, Diane Hulse, Gary Schroeder, Dan Grainger, Kim Venters, Bob Messig, Debbie Blondin and Catherine Hudson. The season’s upon us so take a deep breath, be kind to those around you and of course, don’t be an April Fool (or a fool in any other month for that matter). Get a designated driver if you’re having a cold one. Life moves pretty fast; if you don’t stop to look around once in a while you could miss it. See y’all around the Isle! Peace out!
the hooked up fishing report … Well, the Crystal Coast has made it through another mild winter. Coastal residents and fish populations alike experienced much warmer than normal temperatures, but April brings even warmer weather and fishing along the Crystal Coast really heats up! Anglers can expect to see some dramatic changes inshore, nearshore and offshore as many species migrate into the area. So now is the time to drop the boat in the water, put the family onboard and go have some fun!
inshore Anglers willing to put in the time and research will find small schools of Redfish working mud flats, creeks and shallow bays this month. Our redfish spend much of the winter feeding sporadically due to slowed metabolisms and when they make their move up the coast and into our rivers and coastal backwaters in April, they feed aggressively! The shallow bays in high-salinity areas will be covered with a slimy algae locals call “turd moss,” requiring anglers to use specific methods and baits to avoid getting slimed. One of my favorite baits is Berkley’s 5" Gulp jerk shad fished on a weightless hook for extremely shallow water. These baits will suspend and mimic a wounded minnow while avoiding the slime. Once our water temperatures break 60 degrees, try your top-water baits for a very impressive surface display. I really like the action of Sebile’s 3¾" Bonga Minnow in both the mullet and natural golden shiner colors. These top-water baits are durable and have an amazingly irresistible action. Although redfish make a big push into the backwaters in April, one of the most abundant species will be Bluefish and they offer families some serious fun and constant action. Ranging from a half to over 5 pounds, these aggressive feeders will dominate the food chain from the inlets to the sounds by the middle of the month. They can be found working the entire water column around the inlets and connecting channels as they ambush glass minnows. Blues will also feed aggressively along the edges of sand and grass flats and even move into many shallow bays. When around the inlets and all connecting channels, look for small turns and seagulls feeding on silversides along current rips at the edge of sandbars. Either drift or troll an area until you find feeding blues. You can often anchor up and fish the same spot over and over with suspending baits, deep diving lures, metal jigs and top water baits. Have fun, but be careful as they often shake like crazy when brought aboard.
eport
R Fishing
CAPTain JEFF CRONK Fish’n4Life Charters
910‑325‑8194 336‑558‑5697
www.nccharterfishing.com
nearshore Our nearshore fishing has a lot to offer the small boat angler in April. A good number of our artificial reefs and hard/live bottoms will be holding Albacore and Bonito this month. The bonito typically make their showing on AR 315, 320, 330, 345 and 355 in mid-April and the bite lasts through mid-May. They will congregate around highrelief structures, surfacing in the early morning hours, descending in the water column often unnoticed during mid-day and resurfacing late in the afternoon. The albacore will be around before the bonito, but both species provide an amazing fight on light spin tackle and fly rods. They will make incredibly fast runs of 50 yards or more in seconds! Some of my favorite baits include a ½–2-oz. Pink Stingsilver, a ¼-oz. Bett’s double spec rig and Yozuri’s deep diving hard baits. These fish CONTINUED ON P41 ››
www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
Carolina Salt Magazine
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A
s the cool days in March faded away to warm days that got into the 80s, everyone got a case of spring fever, but water temperatures did not warm up as fast as the air. The offshore water temperatures in March ranged from the low to upper 50s, while the inshore water temperatures ranged in the low to mid 50s—normal for March. With weather continuing to warm, inshore water temperatures should continue to rise and diving at Radio Island will become more comfortable.
RIL
DIS C OV E RY DIVING || l e e m o o r e
Th
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Cr
ys
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Co
as
t
In
AP
range, some divers The Crystal Coast is known for its inshore wrecks in the 60–70' range—perfect decide to for the beginner or a diver who wants more bottom time. It is also known for gain addiwrecks farther offshore in the 80–120' range that are visited in the summer by more experienced divers who enjoy the diverse marine life and the rich tional training history of the wrecks. The Crystal Coast also has wrecks that are in the and learn to be140–160' range. come technical divWrecks that are resting in 140–150' of water are at the edge of the ers. Technical diving recreational diver’s limit. Most of the time, the top of the wreck is still differs from recreation in the 120' range. Wrecks that fit into this category are the Naeco diving in that it is more and the stern of the Far East Tanker. These wrecks are dove gear intensive, multiple tanks several times each summer. The Naeco is at a depth of 140' are used, decompression stops and is dove more frequently because it is south of Beaufort are required and more complex Inlet and its closeness to the Gulf Stream gives it a better dive planning is required. The gear chance of having warm, clear water. The stern of the involved is generally double that of Far East Tanker is at a depth of 150' on the east side a recreational diver. Technical divers of Cape Lookout. The water is usually a little cooler have redundant systems, at least two dive and there is a higher chance of strong currents computers, multiple tanks (each with its own near the wreck. regulator), at least two timing devices and at The wrecks that are in 160' include the least two dive lights. bow of the Far East Tanker and the USS Traditional jacket-style buoyancy compensators Yancey. The bow of the Far East Tanker are replaced with wing and backplate-style compenis in 160' of water, with the top in 140'. sators. The wing is the part that holds the air. It is called The wreck is upside down and has a wing because it rests on the diver’s back and looks like almost all of its deck plates intact. a set of wings when inflated. The backplate is attached to There is very little growth on the wing with wing nuts and it holds the diver’s tank(s). Nylon them because of the current straps secure the wing and backplate to the diver, with one comthat passes over the wreck. ing over each shoulder and around the waist. Quick disconnects The USS Yancey is in 160' are not used on the straps. of water, with the top in
☛
vi
Di
To experience the wrecks that are in the 140– 160'
ng
120'. It is resting on its starboard side.
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Doubles (two tanks banded together) or large-capacity tanks (120 cubic feet or larger) with H-valves (valves with the ability to attach two regulators) are used as the primary air source for technical divers. Divers using doubles will have a regulator on each tank as part of their redundant system. Pony bottles (smaller tanks, usually 40 cubic feet or less) can also be used as a backup air supply. The pony bottle will have its own regulator. Stage bottles might also be used. Stage bottles are usually 80 cubic foot tanks that have a specific gas mixturedesigned to be used at a predetermined decompression stop. Multiple stage bottles might be used on one dive.
Technical Diving training can help divers experience the deeper wrecks off of the Crystal Coast. If you need more information about additional training or the equipment involved in Technical Diving, contact Discovery Diving at 252-728-2265, dive@discoverydiving.com or follow them on facebook. APRIL 2013 >> www.CarolinaSalt.com
tide chart Cape Hatteras Tides:
April
North Carolina, Cape Hatteras, Bogue Inlet
April 2013
N 34° 39' / W 77° 06' Date
Day
1
Mo
1209pm
High Tide 2.0
High Tide
Sunrise
Sunset
Moonrise
Moonset
617am
2
Tu
1245am
2.6
112pm
3
We
149am
2.5
223pm
4
Th
258am
2.4
5
Fr
406am
6
Sa
507am
7
Su
8
Mo
9
Low Tide -0.1
611pm
Low Tide -0.2
649am
724pm
1221am
1043am
1.9
719am
0.0
715pm
0.0
648am
725pm
119am
1145am
1.9
826am
0.1
826pm
0.1
646am
726pm
211am
1249pm
335pm
2.0
932am
0.1
941pm
0.1
645am
727pm
258am
154pm
2.3
441pm
2.1
1034am
0.0
1051pm
0.0
643am
727pm
339am
258pm
2.3
540pm
2.3
1129am
-0.1
1152pm
-0.1
642am
728pm
417am
402pm
602am
2.3
631pm
2.4
1217pm
-0.2
641am
729pm
452am
504pm
652am
2.3
718pm
2.5
1247am
-0.2
102pm
-0.2
639am
730pm
525am
604pm
Tu
737am
2.3
801pm
2.6
136am
-0.2
142pm
-0.2
638am
731pm
559am
704pm
10
We
819am
2.2
841pm
2.7
222am
-0.2
221pm
-0.2
637am
731pm
633am
803pm
11
Th
859am
2.1
920pm
2.6
305am
-0.2
258pm
-0.2
635am
732pm
709am
900pm
12
Fr
938am
2.0
958pm
2.5
346am
-0.1
334pm
-0.1
634am
733pm
747am
956pm
13
Sa
1017am
1.9
1037pm
2.5
427am
0.0
410pm
0.1
633am
734pm
828am
1050pm
14
Su
1056am
1.8
1117pm
2.3
508am
0.2
448pm
0.2
631am
735pm
913am
1140pm
15
Mo
1138am
1.8
551am
0.2
530pm
0.3
630am
735pm
1001am
16
Tu
1200am
2.3
1224pm
1.7
636am
0.4
616pm
0.4
629am
736pm
1051am
1226am
17
We
1247am
2.1
117pm
1.6
726am
0.4
709pm
0.5
627am
737pm
1144am
109am
18
Th
140am
2.0
215pm
1.7
819am
0.5
811pm
0.6
626am
738pm
1239pm
149am
19
Fr
237am
2.0
315pm
1.8
912am
0.4
915pm
0.5
625am
739pm
135pm
225am
20
Sa
334am
2.0
411pm
1.9
1001am
0.3
1018pm
0.4
624am
740pm
233pm
300am
21
Su
428am
2.0
502pm
2.1
1048am
0.2
1115pm
0.2
623am
740pm
332pm
334am
22
Mo
519am
2.1
550pm
2.3
1132am
0.0
621am
741pm
434pm
407am
23
Tu
607am
2.2
636pm
2.6
1208am
0.1
1215pm
-0.2
620am
742pm
538pm
442am
24
We
654am
2.3
722pm
2.9
1258am
-0.1
1258pm
-0.2
619am
743pm
644pm
518am
25
Th
741am
2.3
809pm
3.0
147am
-0.2
143pm
-0.4
618am
744pm
752pm
559am
26
Fr
828am
2.3
856pm
3.1
236am
-0.3
229pm
-0.5
617am
744pm
901pm
644am
27
Sa
917am
2.3
946pm
3.1
326am
-0.4
317pm
-0.5
615am
745pm
1008pm
735am
28
Su
1008am
2.2
1038pm
3.1
417am
-0.3
407pm
-0.4
614am
746pm
1110pm
833am
29
Mo
1103am
2.1
1133pm
2.9
511am
-0.2
502pm
-0.2
613am
747pm
30
Tu
1202pm
2.1
607am
-0.2
601pm
-0.1
612am
748pm
1207am
1041am
Phase
3rd
New
1st
Full
935am
©2013 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW
Your Complete Bait &Tackle Shop
200 Wet & Official NC EthanolDry Slips Citation Wildlife Free Weigh Service Gas at the Boat Station Agent Docks! Service The most complete bait & tackle marina on the East Coast. Extensive boat storage and a friendly staff make Dudley’s a one-stop shop for all your boating needs.
www.DUDLEYSMARINA.NET
Highway 24 East • Swansboro • 252-393-2204
41
›› whelks, CONTINUED FROM P18 its quarry, digs it out of the sand and envelops it with the large, fleshy, muscular foot that makes up the majority of its body. Positioning the edge of its shell between the clam’s two halves, the whelk exerts steady pressure to pry open its prize. The battle can take hours. Usually a piece of the clam’s shell breaks off under the pressure and the whelk inserts its tube-like proboscis and rough, raspy-
42
Carolina Salt Magazine
toothed tongue, called a radula, to begin shredding the clam’s flesh like a grater and sucking up the shavings. Whelks also use the radula to drill holes through the shells of other mollusks. These long-lived snails inhabit both offshore and sound waters. Mating takes place in spring and fall and females lay long egg strings made up of interconnected, egg-filled, disk-
shaped chambers which they anchor in the sand. It can take several days to lay a string, which consists of more than 100 chambers. Inside each chamber are dozens of eggs that hatch and feed on unhatched eggs until they develop into nearly exact replicas of their parents. The tiny young escape via a small hole in the chamber. Like many newborn sea creatures, very few survive.
APRIL 2013 >> www.CarolinaSalt.com
›› hooked up, CONTINUED FROM P37 will also destroy a small 3–5" top-water bait in the early morning hours when large schools are surfacing. Although both species can be consumed, the bonito is the better of the two, with a very light pink meat that is very tasty! Both Captain Mike Taylor (252-725-2623) and myself, Capt. Jeff Cronk (910-325-8194), have spent over 20 years targeting these species and guiding our clients to the incredible action each season! April will also provide some other opportunities within 10 miles of our beautiful beaches. Our bluefish show up and range from ½–10 pounds or more and can be caught in the surf as well as along the same reefs holding our albacore and bonito. These fish are often overlooked and can provide some intense action and are very good table fare. As with most of our surface feeders, we’ll bleed out those we choose to keep for the cooler, which improves the quality of the meat. Most of our live/hard bottoms will be holding plenty of Grunts, Porgys, Tautogs and some early Summer Flounder. You’ll only need two rigs to take advantage of all this action: a 1½–2-oz. bucktail for jigging and the standard double hook bottom rig tipped with squid should get all the attention from these bottom fish.
cool new products Over 10 years ago, myself and my tournament partner, Capt. Mike Taylor, introduced jigging for flounder on the nearshore
www.CarolinaSalt.com >> APRIL 2013
live bottoms and ledges along the Crystal Coast. Shortly after, we paired a Flounder Fanatic Bucktail and a Berkley Gulp bait and never turned back. We’ve proven, with deckloads of flounder, that it is truly the most effective way to target these nearshore summer flounder (Fluke). In attempt to perfect this method and improve the strike-to -hookup ratio, I’ve been working on a new bucktail designed to securely hold a Berkley Gulp bait while allowing the hook to lay pointing upward every time it hits the bottom and thus increase hookups while decreasing hangups. Don Bett of Bett’s Tackle and I put his this idea and his patented right angle hook technology together and designed the ultimate bucktail for deep-water jigging. The new Billy Bay Flounder Fanatic Bucktail has been designed to catch more flounder! It’s a 2-oz. bucktail and features Bett’s patented right angle hook with black Teflon coating and a ring-shank bait keeper system. As a professional guide who already lands thousands of flounder each year, I’m confident this in truly a unique bucktail that can benefit every angler whether targeting flounder and other bottom fish or chasing striper and cobia. Be sure to ask your local tackle store about the Flounder Fanatic Bucktail before your next fishing trip!
Carolina Salt Magazine
43
›› MATCH, CONTINUED FROM P22 church and Scotty and Susan were standing outside next to his motorcycle, still dressed in leather and their little skullcap black helmets. The preacher’s wife was vacuuming the bright scarlet red carpet as we entered the sanctuary. “Y’all come right in—I will be finished in a minute.” “Don’t you look pretty honey,” she said to Susan, extending her hand in greeting. Then she turned to Scotty, picking up that he was a little tense. “Don’t you worry none, this is the easy part. We been together 21 years and I know it’s ’til-death-do-we-part and some days I think I might just kill him.” Scotty laughed and said, “I am just fine, ma’am. You didn’t have to get all these flowers for us, but they sure are beautiful.” The little woman let out a laugh from deep in her torso: “Honey, those aren’t for you, there is a funeral coming in here at ten. One beginning and one end, all in the same morning.” I found her humor entertaining and thought to myself that being the preacher’s wife must be an interesting role in a small Baptist church in eastern North Carolina. I always get weddings and funerals confused and usually explain it by stating, “Well, either way somebody’s life is over today.” The minister came out and greeted
everyone, looking at Scotty: “Are you ready?” “Yes sir” Scotty said with a chuckle, accelerating his attack on the chewing gum. I was asked to hold the ring and then the ceremony started. The Minister fumbled through his book and found the appropriate pages. “Scotty, repeat after me.” As he read the vows, it became apparent that he had not performed too many weddings. I learned later, that he had been a career military man, who had followed his calling to the ministry just a year earlier. How he wound up at the Welcome Home Baptist Church in Otway I am not sure, but judging from his Down East accent, I assumed it was a homecoming of sorts. At one point while reading the vows, he said, “Hold on, wait a second, I read that wrong, let me read it over.” Scotty was repeating his vows as the minister was reading them, but instead of looking at Susan, he looked at the minister. “Son, you need to look at Susan, you are not marrying me.” The minister reached out to me and asked for the ring and then handed to Scotty. Repeating the vow, “With this ring, I thee wed,” he placed the ring on her finger and then reached for his cheek to wipe a tear. Susan repeated her vows to Scotty, looking him square in his eyes and projecting her
sincerity and emotion with each word. I thought to myself that she really loves and admires him. A little tear formed in my eye. Susan placed the band on Scotty’s finger. “I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.” Scotty wasted no time at all in planting a deep kiss on her lips. Susan smiled wider than I had ever seen her smile and I was happy that I had witnessed this event. We snapped a few pictures and then made a little small talk leaving the church. “You guys be careful riding on that steel horse,” the minister said as Scotty and Susan began to don their leathers. Scotty turned to me and thanked me sincerely for coming and I assured him that it was my pleasure and I was honored to be there. “I’ll call you next week, thanks again for coming.” Scotty and Susan rode off on his Harley as I stood in the driveway. It seemed like a perfect ending to the morning, as a watched them turn right and ride off on their new life together. Captain James Rosemond runs the dive charter boat Tortuga, is a freelance writer and the author of “Hiding on the Bottom.” VISIT HIM AT www.tortugacharters.net.
›› spring sup, CONTINUED FROM P26 serviceability. Nothing like drowning your favorite camera or phone the first time out! Don’t forget to check out your carrying system. It’s a sad occasion when you place your kayak or board on top of your vehicle only to find there’s a problem with your carrier! Check your straps too. Sometimes they freeze up if left out in the weather. Check all safety equipment: PFDs, pumps, leashes, inflatables, lights, whistles, horns, dry bags and first aid kits. Visit Flatwaters Paddling if you need advice, help or parts! Let’s be standing at the starting line ready to jump in and paddle
with the security of knowing that our gear is ready to Get Up! Paddle!
Calendar of Events for April and Summer Flatwaters Paddling SUP yoga and tours are up and running. Call 252-354-7878 for reservations and details. Rentals are available. Visit the free Kayak Rigging Clinic on April 6 starting at 1 p.m. Bring your kayak for advice and assistance! Call 252-3547878 to reserve your spot.
A casual Island eatery with a
Touch of Class.
SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER Seafood • Salads • Steaks Burgers • Sandwiches Open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-8pm Friday & Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-8pm
311 Mangrove Drive (Across from CVS) EMERALD ISLE
252.354.7775
STARTING BREAkFAST MAy 1
www.flipperz.net
We work miracles with
monogramming!
Located in the entrance of the restaurant, Flipperz Fudge Co. and Flipperz Retail are great places to satisfy your sweet tooth, purchase wine, take home a unique gift or order custom embroidery for your friends, family & business!
MONOGRAMMED PURSES | WRISTLETS iPAD COVERS | HATS | BEACH BAGS
trY our unlimited salad Bar!
simPlY Grilled… ChiCken Breast, Boneless Pork ChoPs, shrimP, sCalloPs, tuna and salmon.
What’s on your plate tonight?
w w w. r i B e Y e s s t e a k h o u s e . C o m
TWO LOCATIONS ON THE CRYSTAL COAST 104 Golfin’ Dolphin Drive • Cape Carteret • 252.393.2509 502 Front Street • Beaufort • 252.728.6105