Carteret County Family Business 2016

Family BUSINESS

Carteret County

Vol. 4-2016 Vol. 3-2015

Dedication In 2015, Carteret County lost a beloved friend in Connie Willis, owner of Atlantic Beach Seafood & Fresh Market.

The creations that came from her kitchen will long leave a mark on our community – dips, homemade pies and chowders – but it was her spirit and love of life that will stay with us all. We are honored to dedicate the 2016 edition of Family Business to Connie.

The Family Business 2016 - Vol.4 Published by:

NCCOAST 201 N. 17th St. Morehead City, NC 28557 252.247.7442

Publisher

Sales

Graphic Design Creative Director Editorial

Photography

Allyson Sproul Jamie Bailey, Ashly Willis Morgan Davis Kim LaChance Amanda Dagnino Casey Futrell Photography

www.nccoast.com Entire contents, maps, advertisements and graphic design elements copyright 2016 NCCOAST. Reproduction is strictly prohibited without the publisher’s consent. Though every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all advertising and editorial copy contained herein, the publisher may not be held responsible for typographical errors. NCCOAST and employees, agents or representatives of the same may not be held responsible for any actions or consequences derived as a result of following advice or instructions contained herein. NCCOAST reserves the right to refuse any advertising or editorial content deemed inappropriate, misleading or in violation with the law

Family BUSINESS Carteret County Buy Local Whether you enjoy the Crystal Coast year-round or only spend part of the year with us, one thing is certain – you do business here in Carteret County. You rely on service providers, you visit medical professionals, you dine out and you shop at local merchants. And nothing could make us happier.

The Crystal Coast is a patchwork of small, family-owned businesses that meld together to meet all our needs, helping us maintain the quality of life we’ve come to enjoy in our coastal paradise. These customer-centered companies are owned by our friends, neighbors and partners. We sit next to them at local board meetings and cheer on their children at football practice. And we seek out their specialized advice. Together, they are a vital part of our small community – they are part of the broader picture that makes being a member of a small town so special.

Our visits to these local companies not only show our support of our friends and neighbors, it also impacts our community. Studies show that more than 45% of each dollar spent at a local business is circulated back into the community.

NCCOAST is proud of be a part of this rural business community. For more than 30 years our local staff has provided publications for our residents and visitors as well as commercial print services to the businesses that dot our landscape. As we begin a new year in Carteret County, we’re excited to spotlight our family-owned businesses. We invite everyone to take a moment to visit these companies and share the importance of investing in our own community. Be sure to tell them you saw their photo in the Family Business.

Our Crystal Coast business partners in order of their appearance: Pullman’s Landscaping McQueen’s Interiors Beaufort Realty Ginny Gordon’s Gifts & Gadgets Coastal Countertops El’s Drive In Emerald Isle Realty Ruddy Duck H.A. Young Moore Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Lawrence Family Dentistry Atlantic Beach Realty Atlantis Lodge

Photography by: Casey Futrell

Jame’s Sunshine Cleaners The Sanitary Fish Market & Restaurant William’s Floor Covering Pam Bird Softwater Solutions Coastal Carolina Orthodontic Atlantic Beach Seafood & Fresh Market Sweet Dreams Casey Futrell Photography Beaufort Furniture Nationwide Insurance VRM

• Top Soil • River Rock • Turkey Compost •Nuggets • Landscape Construction Materials and more

• Walkways • Driveways • Retaining Walls • Patios • High Rise Patios

• Complete Landscape Restorations • Sod/Hydro seeding • Irrigation

• Stone Walls • Outdoor Kitchens & Bars • Pool Decks • Water Features •

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nyone who meets Gerardo Rodriguez, owner of Pullmann’s Landscape Associates and the new addition, Seventy West Landscape Supply, can surely tell that he didn’t grow up in Carteret County. But for Rodriguez, it was love at first sight when he arrived on the Crystal Coast.

He loved the environment, he loved the people, and he knew this was where he wanted to build a life and carve out his own American Dream.

Born and raised in Costa Rica, Gerardo came to the United States at the urging of a local friend, Michael Farrell, who had traveled to Costa Rica to surf. In turn, Gerardo came to the Crystal Coast to visit his buddy and check out the local surf environment and instantly felt at home along our shores. He returned to the United States to attend college in Florida, mowing lawns along the way, like any college student might, to help put himself through school. It was a career choice that stuck with him.

It was the Crystal Coast, however, that remained in the forefront of his mind. In 1991 he opened Pullmann’s Landscape Associates – a curious name for a Costa Rican transplant. But Gerardo explains he was having trouble with his American accent during those early years. Some folks would even tease him by calling him Ricky Ricardo, because his accent was so similar to the beloved “I Love Lucy” character. It made him feel that the business name should have a more English ring to it – so, on his late father’s advice, Gerardo opted to use his mother’s maiden name, Pullmann.

It was a decision that has worked wonders for this busy landscape company. More than 20 years later, now a proud United States citizen, Gerardo also owns Seventy West Landscape Supply, which offers an array of products for landscapers and homeowners.

There were plenty of naysayers at the beginning, he remembers. There were those who said he couldn’t do it. But there were also plenty of people cheering him on. Through it all, he said, he stayed focused and worked to provide the best customer service possible for his client – customer service that would keep his clients coming back for more. And service that allowed him to see his own American Dream come to fruition.

252-726-1564 www.pullmannslandscape.com

4540 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC 28557 and Drip Systems • Low Voltage Landscape Lighting • Plants •Mulch •

• Fireplace & Fire Pits • Lawn Care & Maintenance Programs • Tree/Shrub Planting and Flowers •

The American Dream

Everything a Furniture Store Should Be… McQueen’s Interiors, a full service interior design store, was opened by Danny McQueen in 1973, on the Atlantic Beach Causeway, something of a one-man band. He’d sell the furnishings during the day and deliver them in the evening, growing his family business along the way. Now boasting a 12,500 square foot showroom in the Pelletier Harbor Shops in Morehead City, the next generation, daughter Dana McQueen, is at the helm.

Deeply rooted in Carteret County, the store and its staff of interior designers aim to reflect the coastal environment – be it shabby chic, transitional or traditional, a second home on the Crystal Coast or a primary residence. It’s not only a mission they take seriously, but one they look forward to providing each day. With some staff members who have been there as long as 30 years, McQueen’s consistently brings its best to the table day after day.

Knowing that the most important thing in creating a perfectly designed home is a client’s happiness, the designers at McQueen’s have achieved the pinnacle of success through the satisfaction of their clientele.

MCQueeN’S INterIorS 4426 Arendell St. • Morehead City • 252.247.3175 • www.mcqueensinteriors.com

or hundreds of years the names Duncan and Nelson have been synonymous with Beaufort. It is, according to John Nelson Duncan, III, owner of Beaufort Realty, a down to earth, simple place to live and raise a family with a coastal way of life that is so much more appealing than city living.

Duncan and his wife Melanie live in Beaufort along with their two sons, John Duncan, IV, a graduate of East Carteret and freshman at Appalachian State University, and Joseph Duncan, a sophomore at East Carteret. This unique perspective makes him the ideal contact to have when it comes to learning more about the area and its amenities and makes Beaufort Realty a local favorite when it comes to finding a new home or the perfect spot for a family vacation.

Beaufort Realty opened its doors in 1988 and Duncan started as an agent in 1995. In 1998 he purchased the business that celebrated the small seaport village and added a vacation and annual rental component; sure that he could lure some vacationers to Beaufort-by-the-Sea. The business he nurtured is a true full-service real estate company that has continued to grow through the years.

In the rental department, Alison Vick and Susan Taylor are always ready to discuss options in the area and accounts manager Debbie Pease is on task when the time comes to get all the paperwork in order. Rounding out the team are long-time friends and experienced brokers, Don McCall, Greg Moss, Jeff Adams and brother-in-law Arthur Harrison, ensuring that Duncan and Beaufort Realty are ready to handle all your real estate needs – vacation or annual, residential, commercial, rentals and sales.

325 Front St., Beaufort 252-728-5462 VacationBeaufort.com & BeaufortRealty.com

since 1982

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ince 1982, Ginny Gordon’s has been providing everything customers need for their kitchens. The store was originally located in Beaufort, the dream of a woman who long knew that the kitchen is indeed the heart of the home. Ginny Gordon was joined every step of the way by her daughter, Jenny Morrison. Together, the pair relocated the store to its current spot in downtown Morehead City in 1996, providing a nice, central location for the growing business.

An independent, family-owned business, Ginny Gordon’s stocks top items from a variety of vendors, many of which are small, family-owned companies as well. With its casual environment and eclectic assortment of ‘must have’ items, the store has developed a loyal customer base from around the county and across the globe. At Ginny Gordon’s, quality, functionality and personal service are the priority.

1011 Arendell Street | Morehead City 252-726-6661| www.ginnygordons.com

European Polish Pottery Harvery & Strait Wusthof Caldrea Harold Import Co. Messermeister Strahl Chemex Chapel Hill Toffee 350 Cheese Straws The Black Spatula USA Pans

Natural Elegance

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usband and wife team Amanda Jones-Bell and David Bell have been familiar faces at Coastal Countertops & Tile for several years. But it wasn’t until 2015 when it truly became official – they took ownership of the growing business.

In the year leading up to their purchase, the business had seen a marked amount of growth under Amanda’s leadership. The company added the tile component to the business in 2010 which features an 800 square foot tile showroom. This year, it expanded its slab yard, providing customers with more options than ever. It’s been a lot of hard work for the couple, but they’re no strangers to breaking a sweat. Amanda thanks her father for instilling an understanding of what hard work is all about.

With the help of their staff – Callie, Susan & Ellen – Coastal Countertops & Tile provides customer focused, professional service and has a reputation for listening carefully to their clients and striving to be practical when it comes to budget, whether they’re tiling a bathroom or an entire house.

There is nowhere else they would rather do business, the couple agrees. The Carteret County natives love the small town atmosphere and love getting to know their customers along the Crystal Coast.

Visit our Design Center 1117A North 20th Street, Morehead City 252-247-0015

www.coastalcountertopsnc.com Cambria Silestone Caesarstone Daltile American Olean Florida Tile Vetrostone Vetrazzo

El’s

252.726.3002

DRIVE-IN If trees could talk, we’re sure the grove of live oaks that shade the parking lot of El’s Drive In would have a lot of stories to tell. For more than 50 years, locals and visitors alike have met at El’s for one of their famous shrimpburgers – the taste of which is pure North Carolina coastal nostalgia. Reminiscent of days gone by, this community landmark finds that many vacationing families simply can’t leave the area until they’ve satisfied their craving for an El’s burger. And that is music to the ears of the deeply-rooted Franks family, which simply strives to provide the best possible meal at the most reasonable price.

Elvin Franks (1929-2003) began his restaurant career working with the late Dom Femia at Dom’s Lunch and later joined together to open DomL’s on the Atlantic Beach Causeway. In the early 1950s, he and wife Helen (1933-2015) a Morehead City native from the Promise Land, opened their own restaurant where Cox Family Restaurant is located today.

They operated there for five years before building at the present Arendell Street location in 1959 – opening what has become a must-stop for many Crystal Coast visitors.

It has been a family affair ever since. The couple’s only son, Mark, has worked there for as long as he can remember. After serving in the US Army, he returned to the family business full-time in 1974. The third generation, grandson Shelton, is now taking hold of the reins and working full time like his father and grandparents while his wife Kristen works at Carteret Health Care as a respiratory therapist. Daughter-in-law Gail handles the bookkeeping and serves as the human resources officer, but she has even filled in as a car hop when needed. Granddaughter Jenna, now a college grad, fills in when she’s not too busy directing band students at the Down East Middle School.

Likewise, the third generation of customers continues to flock to El’s for its fresh ingredients. There is no frozen beef here – each and every fresh burger is made by hand daily, just like their famous coleslaw, which is still made with the same family recipe as it was made with in 1959. Not much has changed at El’s since those early days. The staff still comes to your car to take your order and delivers it as soon as it is ready.

The Franks couldn’t imagine doing it any other way. Nor could they imagine doing it anywhere else. For these business owners, there is no place like Carteret County and Morehead City, and no people like those found here along the Crystal Coast. The family is thankful for the local and visiting families that continue, generation after generation, to visit their family business and are eternally grateful that El’s continues to thrive and continues to serve the community they love.

Featured in: Our State Magazine,

Southern Living and the Raleigh News & Observer and Cooking with Paula Deen

3706 Arendell St. Morehead City, NC

www.elsdrivein.com

A Carteret County Landmark since 1959

Tony Craig

Recognized by urbanspoon.com as oneof the Best NC Restaurants of 2015

For over 50 years, our property owners, guests and employees have been part of the Emerald Isle Realty family. Our founder, Mildred Batten Simmons, was just being a good neighbor when she agreed to look after cottages owned by her friends and rent them to other hometown folks from a small office in the downstairs of her beach cottage. Soon her brother and his wife, Jim and Mary Batten, took over the management along with their daughter Julia Batten Wax and son-in-law, Mark. Mark and Julia have grown this small family business into one of the most innovative, compassionate and successful companies throughout the Crystal Coast. Today Mark and Julia, along with their son, Nathan Wax and daughter, Allison Wax Carter, can be seen each day at the family business along with their high school and elementary

school grandchildren running work orders, hanging up keys and happily welcoming vacationing families to our island. The secret to our success and growth for more than 50 years is hard work, inspirational leadership, dedication, community service and the courage to innovate. We made the decision years ago to grow our business the old-fashioned way by being selective about the vacation homes we manage and showing all of our guests and owners the same southern hospitality Aunt Mildred did all those years ago. Along with our family, we are honored to have employees that have been with us for over 20 years. From our family to yours, we hope you enjoy the Crystal Coast and invite you to stop by to say hello sometime soon!

-The Wax Family

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he Kingery and Botta families joined forces to open the Ruddy Duck Tavern in June of 2008. Bill Kingery and Fabian Botta brought more than 40 years of experience in the restaurant business, although both have diverse backgrounds, making a perfect balance that is reflected at the Ruddy Duck Tavern. The restaurant features a complete menu, from appetizers, soups, salads, hamburgers and sandwiches to sophisticated entrees and everything in between in addition to a blackboard full of daily specials, making Ruddy Duck’s a preferred destination in Carteret County The men and their wives, Susan Kingery and Silvana Botta, focus on providing great quality food and generous portions at a reasonable price while supporting other local businesses in the process.

509 Evans St., Morehead City • 252-726-7500

Seafood

Pasta •

Burgers

Sa l a d s Pizza spirits •

•

www.ruddyducktavern.com

www.hayoungcontracting.com ∙ 252-723-9393 H. A. Young Contracting, LLC, is a licensed and fully insured general contractor serving the Crystal Coast and neighboring communities. Opened in 2009 by Hunter Young and wife Julie, the firm insists on quality workmanship and personalized service for all their client’s custom construction needs. Hunter graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in construction management and held a variety of positions in the construction industry – from laborer to superintendent to estimator/project manager – prior to venturing out on his own. Hunter and Julie live in Beaufort with their three children, twins Lucy & Libby, and son Anders.

East Coast Square – East 4218 –M Arendell Street Morehead City, NC 252-808-3100

East Coast Square – West 1165 Cedar Point Blvd.

Cedar Point, NC. 285 252-808-4440 www.mooresportsmed.com

Dr. Jeffrey Moore has practiced in Carteret County since 1988. A graduate of Duke University and the University Of Maryland School Of Medicine, Dr. Moore and his wife Kyra started this journey together over 35 years ago, finally settling in Morehead City to begin private practice and raise their family.

Dr. Moore opened Moore Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in 2010 with the desire of providing “big city” medical care in a “small town”setting, treating patients in an efficient, technically advanced and caring environment. Their goal is to minimize wait time and administrative hassles while maximizing outcomes. Along with a solid base in general orthopedics covering a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions, MOSM offers expertise in sports medicine, joint replacement, hand surgery and fracture care Outcomes are optimized by conservative, and if ultimately necessary, surgical treatment options. Patient education is central, which means each individual patient can make educated decisions regarding their care. The comprehensive approach continues after surgery at Moore Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, which provides the highest quality, result-focused physical therapy and rehabilitation program available in the area.

Over the last five years, MOSM has added staff, physicians and a second location in Cedar Point. No matter the location, or physician, Dr. Jeffrey Moore, Dr. David Kirby, Dr. John Spellman or PA Chuck Pfaff, MOSM continues to provide “big city” care in our “small town” setting.

Although Dr. Moore is from “off,” this has been home for 27 years. Besides being a perfect location to raise their five children, it has been theperfect place to practice as well. The intimacy of practicing in a small town has allowed Dr. Moore to develop long-term relationships with his patients and their families. And the patient contact continues long after the office visit. Next time you see him, be sure to ask him about his new title, Grandpa!

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Forever on the cutting edge of family dental care, Lawrence Family Dentistry is dedicated to providing the best possible dental care to the residents of Carteret County and beyond. Dr. Denny Lawrence, II believes in delivering the latest in dental technology including one visit crowns, digital x-rays, placement and restoration of dental implants and Zoom Advanced In-Office Whitening. We believe in concentrating on minimally invasion dentistry. With flat screen TVs and massaging dental chairs, he strives to give you a relaxing experience – like being at home.

Dr. Lawrence was born and raised right here along the Crystal Coast, making it easy for him and his staff to provide hometown quality care and service with the most superior materials and techniques available – familiar faces, treating familiar faces, with exemplary care. Be on the lookout for son Poole while visiting, often referred to as the office mascot. Dr. Lawrence and wife Sarah’s household is rounded out by daughter, Grayson, and twins, Henry and Anne Rives.

3302 Bridges St., Ste. H, Morehead City

252-247-3922

www.lawrencefamilydentistry.com

Your source for Vacation Rentals & Sales

513 Atlantic Beach Causeway & Dunesc

REALTY

cape Villas

Bringing You to the Beach Since 1990!

800-786-7368

atlanticbeachrealty.net Two offices to serve you located at 513 Atlantic Beach Causeway & Dunescape Villas

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Nestled in the maritime forest of Pine Knoll Shores, the Atlantis Lodge has hosted vacationing families for more than 50 years. Whether they’re lounging under the shade of live oaks by the pool or relaxing in the beach under the Atlantis’ trademark yellow umbrellas, guests at the Atlantis know they’ll look forward to their next stay with this familyfriendly coastal landmark.

The Atlantis Lodge was opened by Ruth Bray and her son-in-law, AC Hall, in 1963 on the beautiful Crystal Coast. Ruth ran the Atlantis until she retired in 1980, When AC and his wife Dot moved to the beach to take over. AC was the Raleigh city planner for 30 years, but moved to the coast to enjoy the sand, the surf and the return visits of Atlantis guests who became like family.

For many guests, time at the Atlantis Lodge is a tradition. Year after year they return to this warm, pet-friendly environment of the Atlantis Lodge. There are plenty of activities for the entire family. Guests have complimentary use of lounge chairs and umbrellas, two bicycles, kayaks and boogie boards. The “Lounge” is on the third floor with a beautiful view of the ocean and offers a ping pong table, pool table and big screen TV. The swimming pool is not the typical concrete hole in the ground.

There is plenty of shade from trees and a quiet waterfall above the baby pool. VERY relaxing. The site also features a new dog park, providing a secure, fenced in area for the four-legged guests to play safely.

With a variety of room sizes, including a large selection of suites with kitchens, and a full array of amenities, the Atlantis Lodge has become a home away from home for many visitors.

The family tradition continues today, with Dot and AC’s daughter, Donna, now serving as general manager of the beach-front resort. Donna and her dog Cody moved to the beach in 2003 to help run the lodge.

Cody quickly put himself to work as the official greeter. Two additional doggie greeters joined the team this year, Bodie and Bingo. They make sure everyone feels welcome! Donna is busy keeping everything updated with fresh ideas while preserving the character of the Atlantis. Along with her husband, Austin, and her three brothers, Rick, Barry and Tod, they plan on keeping the Atlantis in the family and thriving for many years to come

The length of the stay is not as important as the length of the memories. Your friends at the Atlantis will make sure they are good ones.

123 Salter Path Road, Pine Knoll Shores 252.726.5168 www.atlantislodge.com

Pelletier Harbor Shops 4426 Arendell Street 2B Morehead City, NC 28557 252.247.5263 www.jamesclothingboutique.com

Rebecca Cole Lauren Kell y

Finnagen

Jamie Dickinson Price Owner

CLEANERS & LAUNDRY

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ffering same day service on professional dry cleaning and laundry with an emphasis on customer service, Sunshine Cleaners has been a permanent part of the Carteret County landscape since 1947. The company is owned by Vince and Edwina Johnston, who purchased the business from his father and brother in 1996, after managing the site since 1975. In the years that followed, several additions were made, including a new location on Highway 24 in 1997 and the purchase of two additional businesses Crystal Clean Laundromat and T&J Cleaners.

With a focus on customer service and a handson approach to business, Vince and Edwina, along with sons Clark and Tyler, are carrying Sunshine Cleaners into the future.

• Same Day Service • Executive Alterations Shirt Service • Coin Laundry • Linen Service • Leather & Suede Cleaning

Crystal Clean Laundromat

230-C Hwy 24 | 2505 Bridges St. | 3031 Bridges St. Morehead City

Supporting Local Fishermen Since 1938

Open Daily

Supporting local fishermen since 1938

Celebrating 78 Years In February of 2016 the Sanitary Fish Market & Restaurant reached a milestone rarely met by eateries – it celebrated 78 years of business on the Morehead City waterfront.

The walls of restaurant are lined with memorabilia tracing the steps of the family business through generations. In the middle of the walls are photographs of the late Capt. “Tony” Seamon and Capt. Ted Garner, who partnered in 1938 to open the counter diner with a dozen stools. Seamon, who worked in construction, and Garner, who was originally a barber, began taking parties out on the Monnie M. for a little coastal fishing. Since many of the patrons weren’t familiar with the cleaning and cooking of the fresh catch, Seamon would cook the fish while afloat.

At the urging of customers, the pair set up a couple of kerosene burners and a counter close to the dock, making it easier for folks to enjoy the seafood without having to take a fishing trip. It was an instant hit – lines formed the first day they opened and haven’t stopped yet. Families return year after year to the ever-growing building nestled over the water.

The Garner and Seamon partnership lasted until Garner’s death in 1978. Ted Garner, Jr. purchased the restaurant outright in 1979 and while he still oversees the restaurant, the day-to-day operation is left to son Jeff and daughter Lisa. Recognizing an ever-changing market and current trends, Jeff hired a new chef to take the restaurant to the next level. Chef James Scott has expanded its offerings to include signature dishes, daily soup and sandwiches, pasta creations and fantastic salads.

Their latest endeavor is the Sugarloaf Island Deli which is schedule for a grand opening during Memorial Day weekend 2016, serving a variety of deli selections and paninis. Spacious outside seating, draft beer and dockside pick-up service will surely be great attractions for this new venture.

“Not only are we the third generation of owners, but we’re welcoming fourth and fifth generations of customers,” said Garner. “People come back year after year. People come because their grandparents ate here.

It’s not just a family tradition for us, it’s a tradition for generations of repeat customers.”

252-247-3111

501 Evans St., Morehead City Waterfront www.sanitaryfishmarket.com

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For more than 20 years, William perri, has felt blessed to be the owner of the carpet store right down the street. He often had dreams of what William’s Floor Covering would become and has dedicated himself to keeping his dreams alive, working hard to make the business the best that it can be. He’s sure to note, however, that the success of William’s would not be possible without the support of the store’s loyal customers, business partners and friends, as well as store’s experienced installers, the front line in delivering finished products and securing a high level of customer satisfaction.

William hopes that his vision and hard work will inspire everyone to stop by William’s Floor Coverings and Interiors to experience the company’s honest, knowledgeable approach to meeting the region’s flooring needs. With the mission of providing the best customer service possible, before, during and after the sale, William and his family look forward to serving the community for years to come.

Come by and checkout our new area rug lines and be greeted by our official mascot, Skully arrrgh rogers and the new four-legged member of the family, puppy Eloise “Ella.”

Offering hardwood, ceramic tile, vinyl, bamboo, cork, laminate & Vinyl planking Great selection of window treatments Product lines include: Karastan • Shaw • Mohawk Masland • & much more Area Rugs by Capel, Jaipur Nourison, and Surya

William’s

Floor Covering & interiors

Owner, William Perri, with his wife, Ruamie, daughter, Ashley and dogs, Skully and Ella

Manager, Jimmy Pittman

Service Before, During, and After the Sale.

5458 A Hwy 70 west • MoreHeAd City

252.726.4442 • 252.726.6154 williAM Perri - owner • JiMMy PittMAn - MAnAger

Hours: Monday - FrIday 9:00 aM - 5:00 pM • saTurday By appT. • aFTEr Hours By rEQuEsT

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xperienced and Successful in Buying and Selling Property on the Crystal Coast...

Realtor Pam Bird has been expertly assisting buyers and sellers in acquiring coastal property since 1998. Because of her own experience living waterfront and raising a family on Pelletier Creek, just off Bogue Sound in Morehead City, she understands the unique attraction to our Crystal Coast.

Pam Bird and her three children, Kristen, and twins Ryan and John, can talk firsthand about the joys and the blessings of the coastal lifestyle and all that it involves … backyard cookouts with family and friends, boating, kayaking, crab pots off the dock and much, much more.

And so, because she understands, real estate is a natural for Pam Bird. She sees the powerful yet familiar pull her clients feel toward our area. So many of her clients came here as small children, and now they bring their children, and our coastal tradition continues. Other clients come just to visit and vacation, and they find themselves “at home” here. Some come to make the coast a permanent home, or they may already live here and they benefit from her ability to match buyers with exactly what they want, while keeping the process easy and comfortable.

“What’s so special about our coastal area is that it has such rich family traditions,” she said.

“Many of my clients have memories of coming to the beach here as children, so they want to make memories for their children. It just continues.

“I think there are two words that speak of our area; powerful and familiar. Once you get here and get out of the car, it just feels right.”

So give Pam Bird a call or send an email to find “your very own special place at the coast.”

Pam Bird

Broker, realtor, GrI, aBr, SFr

252-241-0160

pambirdawp@gmail.com ∙ www.alwilliamsproperties.com

al Williams Properties, atlantic Beach, NC

Soft Water Solutions, LLC

Will Johnson, Bill Johnson, and Sybil Britt

Your Water Care Dealer for Eastern NC Bill Johnson, Owner/Manager 4911-B Bridges Street Ext. Morehead City, NC 28557 Office: 252.222.3220 Fax: 252.222.3212 www.softwatersolutionsllc.com Soft Water Solutions, LLC is a full service water treatment company with service from the VA/NC border to Wilmington as Eastern North Carolina’s WaterCare Dealer. Parent company WaterCare, Inc. is located in Appleton, Wisconsin and has been manufacturing water treatment systems since 1946. All products are made in the USA. Soft Water Solutions, LLC is locally owned and operated by Bill Johnson and family, who have more than 40 years experience in the water treatment business in Eastern North Carolina.

The goal at Soft Water Solutions is to provide the highest quality water at an affordable cost. They focus on 100% customer satisfaction along with personal and professional service. The company services all makes and models of water treatment systems.

Technicians are factory trained and certified and each one has been cross trained to service over 30 brands and models from water softeners, iron filters, sulfur systems, irrigation rust control systems and reverse osmosis drinking water systems as well as whole house reverse osmosis systems.

Soft Water Solutions, LLC offers a free water analysis and consultation to assist all new customers with better quality water for their home or business.

The company’s equipment warranties are among the longest in the industry. In addition, they offer the popular automatic salt service, which includes ongoing maintenance of any brand water softener for as long as the customer owns it at no charge except for the salt as needed. Low monthly payments are available on all equipment sale and rentals.

Call Soft Water Solutions today if they can help you or your family with better water or salt delivery service.

Coa s ta l

Car olina

Orthodontics

Dr. Ball and Family

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he longest running orthodontic practice in Eastern North Carolina, Coastal Carolina Orthodontics opened its doors in Morehead City in 1980 with the desire to provide the highest level of patient care.

It was a homecoming for Dr. Ray Ball, a Morehead City native and West Carteret graduate. Ball completed his undergraduate, dental and orthodontic degrees at UNC-Chapel Hill and served as a naval reserve officer before returning home to open the practice. Ball later partnered with Drs. Rick Vanek and Alex Willis of Jacksonville. In 2013, after over 30 years of serving the community, Dr. Ball asked Dr. David Walker to succeed him in the Morehead office as he began his retirement.

Dr. Walker, also a graduate of West Carteret and UNC Chapel Hill, and a former Fellow with the National Institutes of Health, was excited to have the opportunity to return to his hometown. All of the doctors at Coastal Carolina Orthodontics work together as a team to provide cutting edge care to the people of Carteret and the surrounding counties.

Both Dr. Walker and Dr. Ball have achieved board certification through the American Board of Orthodontics – a distinction held by fewer than 30% of all orthodontists across the country, making them the only Board Certified Orthodontists in the area. Additionally, both are experts in working with Speed and Damon Braces, and are the areas Invisalign specialists.

Being able to practice in Carteret County is a dream come true for Dr. Ball and wife Laura and Dr. Walker and wife Leeanne. Both enjoy working in the close-knit community where they have had the privilege of treating multiple generations. “The greatest joy”, said Dr. Walker, “is being able to give back to the community that has given so much to us, both in terms of the quality of care we provide and in our community endeavors.”

The doctors’ dedication to the community has been particularly notable through their Partners in Education Program which donates a portion of every child’s full treatment fee back to his or her school. To date, more than $73,000 has been contributed to local schools and the practice has a goal of reaching $200,000 by 2020.

Over the past 30 years, Coastal Carolina Orthodontics and its doctors have received numerous accolades at the local, state and national level, but by far the greatest, according to Dr. Walker, was being dubbed The Smile Makers by their family of happy patients!

Dr. Walker and Family

Serving Carteret, Craven & Onslow Counties for almost 50 years!

Morehead City: 3606-A Medical Park Court (252) 726-1137 Havelock: 98 Stonebridge Trail (252) 447-1181

Jacksonville: 17 Office Park Drive (910) 353-5234

www.smilemakersnc.com

AtlAntic BeAch SeAfood & freSh MArket

The Willis Family

Upon moving and expanding to our new location, we will continue to honor our mother, Connie Willis, and provide her wonderful recipes and creations that she has made through the years.

Connie Willis 1945-2015 415 AtlAntic BeAch cAuSeWAy, AtlAntic BeAch | 252-247-2430

W

hen looking for fresh local seafood in Carteret County there is one family business that simply can’t be overlooked – Atlantic Beach Seafood & Fresh Market. Headen Willis opened the family’s first seafood market in Salter Path in 1943. The Atlantic Beach Seafood Market was added in 1999, making it a family business for decades.

The tradition continues today, with Sonya Willis, Headen’s granddaughter, running the show. Her support staff includes her father, Brinkley Willis; son, Chandler; daughter-in-law, Kamile; and nephew Jamison. Until her death in 2015, Sonya’s mother was well known for her homemade recipes that she eagerly served their customers. In her honor, the company continues to share her wonderful recipes and creations.

“Our family has all grown up in Carteret County and we find it so rewarding to own a small local company. We believe in local business, and strive to support those around us just as they help support us,” Sonya said. “Our customers are our friends and we love watching them and their children grow up.”

Moving into a new location in March 2016, customers will find the same wonderful local seafood they have come to count on. In addition, watch for an array of fresh homemade dishes, including steamer pots, casseroles, crab dip, shrimp balls, chowders, pies and more.

Steamer pots to go (Take out only) • Homemade Crabmeat Casseroles Crab Dips • Shrimp Balls • Chowders • Breads Homemade Key Lime Pies and Lemon Pies Wines • Oils and Vinegars • Special Orders Shrimp • Crabmeat • Scallops • Lobster Tails • Crab Legs • Tuna Grouper • Mahi • Trigger • Flounder • Salmon

AtlAntic BeAch SeAfood & freSh MArket

A

drienne opened Sweet Dreams in 1996 as a bed and bath store, featuring bedding sets, custom bedding, window treatments and accessories. In 2000, she was joined by daughter Shannon.

With the two ladies taking the lead, the store quickly outgrew its small space, so Adrienne and her husband Al, along with friends Darryl and Wanda Daniel, built The Shoppes at Cedar Point to allow Adrienne to expand. Sweet Dreams Gifts & Interiors opened in the new retail space in November 2002, with about 2,500 square feet of space. In 2006, the store grew again, adding a 2,000 square foot rug store.

Fine Gifts Home Furnishings Interiors

/âlÎÌ ÀkA Ä GIFTS & INTERIORS

Rugs by :

Company C Surya Nourison Dalyn Kaz Rizzy Couristan Owners: Adrienne Barnes Jolly and Shannon Brooks

Not only is Sweet Dreams the largest rug dealer in the county, but they also carry home accessories, jewelry, baby clothing, children’s toys and a variety of gifts.

Adrienne and Shannon see Carteret County as a wonderful place to live and work. Many of their clients have supported the business since its very beginning, including visitors who swing by every time they come to the beach. And they wouldn’t have it any other way.

504 Cedar Point Blvd.

Cedar Point 252.393.8100

PHOTOGRAPHY

W

eddings, babies, families, pets – Casey Futrell has been capturing important moments for hundreds of local families for nearly a decade, bringing a fresh perspective and an eye for the beauty that surrounds us on the Crystal Coast. This year, she tackled the Family Business project – and we couldn’t be more happy with the results. Her use of natural light and her ability to draw out the best in her subjects never disappoints.

In June, 2007, Casey married her high school sweetheart. And it was while searching for a wedding photographer that she knew she had found her calling. She hasn’t stopped since.

Casey is dedicated to sharing her talents to her fullest potential, along with her love and passion for her craft. Casey lives in Swansboro with her husband, daughter, three dogs, a chubby cat and a sweet little parrot!

252.725.0558 www.CaseyFutrellPhotography.com

B

eaufort Furniture is a new business, now just over two years old, although it has gained a following of families wanting made in the USA furniture. Owners Andy and Sharon Birmingham have deep roots in North Carolina.

Andy is the fifth generation carrying on the family tradition of fine craftsmanship in everything he produces. Go back five generations and you will see examples of the fine work and detailing the family is capable of, including the historic Hamlett train station, built by Andy’s great-great-grandfather and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Likewise, Andy’s grandfather and father have built many fine homes, continuing the high standards of that family tradition. As part of that, the family has always built fine furniture pieces on request for clients and for their own homes.

Building furniture was something Andy always had in the back of his mind. When Sharon and Andy honeymooned in Beaufort a few short years ago, they fell in love with the town and great residents of Carteret County. An idea was born – and they couldn’t think of a better place to do this, a place so rich in history and hometown values. The couple made the decision to be true to their roots and history and build Beaufort Furniture based on those values. Their four-legged partner, Maile, oversees day to day operations.

While the core business is building high quality wood furniture, both stock designs and custom built to suite, they have also chosen to support other family-owned businesses and sell other products that support their mission. Everything in stock continues the tradition of high quality, made in the USA products, most of which are from North Carolina companies.

Remember – Support Yourself and Your Family – Buy Made in the USA Products.

520 Hedrick St., Beaufort | 252-728-3201 www. beaufortfurnitureco.com

Stop in and say Hello to Maile!

We Build our Furniture Right Here in Beaufort!

Classic and Custom Designs Lifetime Construction Warranty

100% Made in the USA

Beaufort Office

503 Cedar Street Beaufort, NC 28516 | 252-728-3119

Morehead City Office

4657 A Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC 28557 | 252-726-7844

Mac’s father, Edward Willis, was the first Nationwide Insurance agent in Carteret County when he opened the doors to the Willis Insurance Agency in 1949. After a tour in the U.S. Navy, Mac joined his father in 1971 and purchased the agency upon his father’s retirement.

Forty-five years later, the company continues to thrive, with offices in both Morehead City and Beaufort providing quality products and services to the community. Four additional members of the family have joined the team – son, William Willis; daughter, Tina Eubanks; Karen’s mother, Shirley Gore; and daughter-in-law, Billie Watson. The business family is rounded out by staff members Kathy Vanetten, Jackie Johnson, Theresa Dixon, Gary Bacon, Susan McCall, Robert Williams, Joe Stabley, Amanda Styron and Alexis Webb. The company’s roots run deep and they are proud of their family history and long association with Nationwide Insurance Companies.

Why Willis Insurance Agency?

The agency has proudly served the people of Carteret County and the surrounding area for more than 50 years.

It has a reputation for conscientious and professional service by those who trust the agency to protect their most valued treasures: their families, homes and businesses. The Willis family respects the trust each customer invests in them and strives to provide the personal attention and individualized service they deserve. In turn, they take pride in the confidence their customers feel when they are able to meet their personal and business needs with coverage that helps secure their future.

Why Carteret County?

To be able to do what you love, where you love is one of the greatest gifts of life. The Willis family believes in the small town values that make the Crystal Coast a wonderful place to live and work. They believe, when you are blessed as they have been, it is not only your honor but your responsibility to give back.The agency endeavors to support those organizations and causes that enhance the quality of life and the safety of the citizens and community, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of Coastal Carolina, Family Promise, Boy Scouts, Carteret County Public Library, Beaufort Historical Association and the Carteret County Public Schools who provide countless educational and cultural resources, Habitat for Humanity, Crystal Coast Hospice House and the Broad Street Clinic. Helping others in the community is their small way of saying “thank you” to their customers for the many years of partnership.

Insurance is our Business. Service is our Vocation.

Mac Willis Insurance Agency Owners: Mac and Karen Willis

SOFT WA RE ... the System

106-D Professional Park, Beaufort, NC 28516 Office: 866-849-0817 Fax: 866-633-9234 www.vrmsoftwaresystem.com

Front to back, feature for feature: the finest rental management system in the industry today!

From the day VRM opened its doors in 2000, it has focused on providing web-based software for the vacation rental management industry that surpasses its competition in both quality and customer service. With more than 100 clients from Maine to Hawaii and 15 employees across the United States, Virtual Resort Manager brings together detail-focused, customer driven individuals to provide allinclusive management options for small to mid-sized vacation rental and real estate companies. Despite the geographical distance, the family of employees comes together almost effortlessly to provide a positive, personalized customer experience.

Virtual Resort Manager is unique in its industry in that it provides a combination of vacation rental management software, website development and online marketing services to its clients. By combining services, VRM is able to provide product packages at a reduced cost to clients without compromising the quality of services provided. For clients, this means they’re not only saving money, but also time.

Normally, a client would be forced to find multiple vendors to obtain all of the services offered by VRM. By bringing all the moving parts under one roof, the company reduces the opportunity for human error and frees up time for clients to spend doing things more important to them.

The belief at VRM is that family makes you stronger, as individuals as well as a business. Virtual Resort Manager is co-owned and run

by Pete and Jennifer Wenk. Pete’s nephew, Mike Mueller has recently rejoined the VRM team after a seven year absence. His new position is Director of Business Development. In addition, two of the company’s greatest assets are siblings Mike Hill and Connie Hill Hutchins. The pair of Dynamic Duos keeps everyone sharp and on their toes. Due to their hard work at VRM, the company has reaped the reward of the commitment, trust and respect cultivated in a family environment. Clients love that the company provides excellent service and appreciate VRM’s understanding of the importance of family values. The company culture supports a firm belief that family not only comes first, but it makes everyone better at what they do.

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