NC Living 2011

Living

NCCOAST

2011

SETTLING DOWN ON THE SOUTHERN OUTER BANKS

WELCOME HOME An Inside Look at Life

Along the Carolina Coast

LEGEND OF BLACKBEARD Resurfaces on the Crystal Coast

Planning Your Permanent

‘STAYCATION’

Where Vacations Take Flight.

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CONTENTS

DESTINATION | CARTERET COUNTY

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DESTINATION | CRAVEN COUNTY

18 26

SETTLING IN

30

CULTURE CLUB

32

4 | NCCOAST LIVING

DESTINATION | ONSLOW COUNTY

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Enjoy your permanent “staycation’ with this list of all the tourist attractions found in your new backyard.

Whether it’s the search for art, music or theater, you’ll find them all on the Crystal Coast.

BURIED TREASURE

Dig up some history as the NC Maritime Museum sheds light on Blackbeard’s pirate ship, found right here off the coast of Beaufort.

38 39 42

34

HEAD OF THE CLASS

43

36

THE ‘GOLF COAST’

46

Take a crash course on the ins and outs of your new school district.

Tee up on one of the area’s beautiful golf courses with this directory spanning the Southern Outer Banks.

DESTINATION | PENDER COUNTY

22

SURF FISHING 101

Catch dinner while relaxing on the beach by following this introduction to a classic North Carolina pastime.

RESIDENT ADVISOR

Make sure you know where to vote and get ready for the road.

‘SEA’ WHAT YOU’RE MISSING

Get battered, broiled and fried during this peek inside North Carolina’s second largest festival.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Know when and where to be all year with this breakdown of popular festivals and events.

ADVERTISING INDEX

Flip to the services and companies found in this edition of NCCOAST Living.

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Living L iv i n g

NCCO

Published by NCCOAST Communications 201 N. 17th St., Morehead City, NC 28557 252.247.7442 • 800.525.1403 • fax 877.247.1856 nccoastcommunications.com nccoast.com

AST

2011

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ME WELCOOME Hide Look at Lifet An Ins rolina Coas the Ca Along

D OF LEGEN EARD B ces on the BLACResKurfa ast stal Co Cry

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Publisher: Tom Kies Managing Editor: Craig Ramey (editor@nccoast.com) Staff Writer: Amanda Dagnino Graphics Manager: Kim Moore Graphic Coordinator: James Lowe Graphic Designers: Mimi Davis, Lindsay Parker, Roze Taitingfong Sales Manager: Jamie Bailey (252.241.9485) Sales: Ashly Willis (252.723.3350), David Pennington (252.723.7801) or email sales@nccoast.com

’ Planni ATION ‘STAYC

Entire contents, ad and graphic design elements copyright 2010-2011

by NCCOAST Communications. Reproduction of any portion of this publication is strictly prohibited unless written consent is obtained from the publisher. Content is as accurate as possible at presstime.

Cover photo by Mimi G. Davis

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CLIMBING THE D I N G BAT T E R LADDER “Congratulations!

Today is your day.

You’re off to Great Places!

You’re off and away!”

-- Dr. Seuss, Oh! The Places You’ll Go

W

hile standing shoulder to shoulder in a stream of thousands of people, it’s hard to have a private conversation … and even more difficult to keep from listening to other peoples’ conversations. This was the case for me during the recent North Carolina Seafood Festival (get the lowdown on this popular annual event on Page 42). With the crowd flowing as it does on the streets of downtown Morehead City, people were sampling seafood dishes ranging from fried shrimp and flounder to shark bites and oyster burgers. But one woman wasn’t having it. An obvious first timer to the fest, she stopped in the middle of the street, turned to her husband and said, “Is there anything here but seafood?”

She said this, mind you, while standing with her back to a pizza stand. But nevermind that. We’re not here to pick on the poor woman, just to observe that she probably wasn’t a local. And neither am I for that matter. You have to be born here to wear that badge of honor and as an 8-year resident, I am what’s known as a dingbatter.

To be fair, the term dingbatter can be a derogatory one, especially if your boat is roaring through a “no wake zone” or you’re feeding the seagulls (get bombed a few times and you’ll think twice about throwing breadcrumbs into the air), but like fine wine, dingbatters do get better with age.

So, we must embrace our ding-

batterness. After all, between growth at the military bases in Jacksonville and Havelock, and the boom of people that began retiring here in the 1990s that continues through today, us dingbatters are actually starting to outnumber the locals.

However, at the end of the day, this is our new home and we want to feel like locals, too. That’s our mission here at Living – we want you to start enjoying your new place on the coast as soon as possible. Inside you’ll find a beginner’s guide to life on the Southern Outer Banks. Be on the lookout for tourist attractions waiting in your own backyard, mark your calendar with the year’s biggest events, get informed on area school districts, learn how to surf fish and much more.

So, it is my pleasure to say to you, “Welcome to your new home on the North Carolina coast.”

Craig Ramey, Editor Living Magazine

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DESTINATION CARTERET COUNTY

DESTINATION CARTERET COAST COUNTY THE CRYSTAL

B U I L D I N G C A ST L ES IN THE SKY M

aybe it’s a simple answer, like time spent on the beach and nightly seafood dinners, or something a little more complex, like discovering the unspoiled heritage of decoy carving and boat building, but there’s a certain allure to the Crystal Coast that makes its visitors want to pull up stakes and call this little corner of North Carolina “home.” Spanning from its western gateways of Emerald Isle and Newport through Atlantic Beach, historic Beaufort and down to the scenic respite known as Down East, Carteret County’s diverse communities each have their own look, history, feel and above all … personality.

PHOTO BY

MIMI G.

DAVIS

ATLANTIC BEACH

The oldest town on the 30-mile stretch of barrier island known as Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach is, for many, the quintessential family vacation spot.

Free from the crowds and attractions that mar such popular spots as Myrtle Beach, yet convenient to shopping, restaurants and nightlife, Atlantic Beach is the ideal spot to spend a week – or a lifetime. While the other four towns on Bogue Banks boast a large retired population, Atlantic Beach is home to many

12 | NCCOAST LIVING

young families who have found the perfect place to settle down.

The seaside community has an easy-going, laidback feel to it. When paired with its attractions and many annual offerings, Atlantic Beach is irresistible to many. From the Carolina Kite Fest each October to the Civil War History found at Fort Macon State Park, Atlantic Beach is a true diamond in the rough. Details: Town of Atlantic Beach, P.O. Box 10, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, 252-726-2121, atlanticbeach-nc.com.

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BEAUFORT North Carolina’s third-oldest town, Beaufort is the seat of Carteret County. Founded in 1709, Beaufort-by-the-Sea, which it is fondly called by local historians, literally oozes historical significance. From the live oaklined roadways to the boardwalk promenade along the waterfront, this fishing hamlet sweeps visitors back in time with its blend of Victorian, Federal and Colonial architecture and its perfectly-presented Southern charm.

With an eclectic waterfront shopping and dining district, an active historic site, a collection of boat and walking tours and the NC Maritime Museum there is plenty to see and do in Beaufort. A tour of historic homes, the Pirate Festival and an array of programs at both museums keep visitors coming back time and time again. When you’re not busy, make sure you take time

to watch for the wild ponies that reside just across Taylors Creek on Carrot Island. Details: Town of Beaufort, P.O. Box 390, Beaufort, NC 28516, 252-728-2141, beaufortnc.org.

DOWN EAST Down East refers to the rural communities of Atlantic, Bettie, Cedar Island, Davis, Gloucester, Harkers Island, Lola, Marshallberg, Otway, Sea Level, Smyrna, Stacy, Straits and Williston.

These small fishing and boatbuilding communities maintain many of the traditions carried forward from generation to generation. The region’s natural beauty received some validation with its inclusion as a NC Scenic Byway.

When exploring Down East, don’t miss the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center on Harkers Island, a virtual clearinghouse of the area’s history, culture and folk arts.

The museum sits next to the Cape Lookout National Seashore headquarters on Harkers Island, where visitors can learn more about the Cape Lookout Lighthouse and wonders of the Outer Banks. The island is also where you’ll find a collection of water taxis ready to carry families to the cape for a day of fun in the sun. Details: theoriginaldowneast.com.

EMERALD ISLE When a development consultant flew over the small sliver of largely uninhabited land he was amazed by the lush maritime forest surrounded by water on three sides. Emerald Isle, he tagged it, and each year the largest community on Bogue Banks celebrates that decision with the area’s largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Sitting at the western end of Carteret County, shouldered by Cape Carteret on the mainland and Indian Beach on the island, Emerald Isle is a popular vacation spot for couples and families.

The town offers expansive views of both the sound and the ocean and is home to one of the island’s two remaining fishing piers, making it a popular site for surf fishing and the town’s shopping centers.

Details: Town of Emerald Isle, 7500 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, NC 28594, 252-354-3424, emeraldisle-nc.org.

WWW.NCCOAST.COM | 13

PHOTO BY MIMI G. DAVIS

INDIAN BEACH/ SALTER PATH Primarily residential, Indian Beach and Salter Path swell with vacationers each summer while retaining a quaint neighborhood feel. With beach access points along Hwy 58, this is a great area to find a slice of secluded beach to claim for the day. The area’s collection of resorts, hotels and condominium rentals provide plenty of options when choosing a vacation spot while the community’s commercial fishing industry makes it the perfect place to get a fresh catch at dinner. Recreational opportunities include kayak and personal watercraft rentals as well as fishing.

For home buyers, the towns provide a plethora of soundside and oceanside options. Details: Town of Indian Beach, P.O. Box 306, Indian Beach, NC 28575, 252247-3344, indianbeach.org.

MOREHEAD CITY The commercial center of Carteret County, this centrallylocated town features downtown

14 | NCCOAST LIVING

shopping with specialty shops to suit just about every need.

Art galleries, dining options and nightlife line the waterfront while national chain restaurants and stores hug the western end of town. Morehead City is home to the county’s only hospital, community college and one of the state’s two deepwater ports.

It boasts an array of entertainment options, including live music venues, a movie theater and a large sportfishing charter fleet.

For folks looking to stay awhile, Morehead City offers a mixture of historic coastal cottages, contemporary homes, condominiums and apartments.

It may be the largest of the county’s towns, but there is certainly no shortage of community fellowship and pride in Morehead City. You can visit your favorite department store on one block and swing by a church bazaar a block over, creating a nice patchwork of contemporary con-

venience and traditional small town charm. Details: Town of Morehead City, 706 Arendell St., Morehead City, NC 28557, 252726-6848, townofmorehead.com.

and is a great chance to see that small town pride in action. Details: Town of Newport, P.O. Box 1869, Newport, NC 28570, 252223-4749, townofnewport.com.

NEWPORT

PINE KNOLL SHORES

Named the “Town with Old Fashioned Courtesy,” Newport is the sort of town known for throwing open its doors and welcoming new faces. Nestled between Morehead City and Havelock, Newport supports a large military population, both active duty and retired, many of which become active in the close-knit community. Newport’s biggest draw, the Newport Pig Cooking Contest, celebrates its 33rd year in 2011

Developed by the children of the late Theodore Roosevelt, this Bogue Banks’ enclave of residential neighborhoods is quiet and secluded, despite being minutes from the most important amenities. Early developers were focused on maintaining as much of the natural landscape as possible, creating rolling, soundfront neighborhoods heavily wooded with maritime vegetation. The recognized sea turtle, bird and tree sanctuary continues that philosophy today. If you’re looking for a break from the town’s beautiful beaches, don’t miss the NC Aquarium, which draws visitors from around the state. Details: Town of Pine Knoll Shores, 100 Municipal Circle, Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512, 252247-4353, townofpks.com.

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DESTINATION CRAVEN COUNTY

A L L T H AT’ S N EU S E WO RT H Y

S

teeped in history, Craven County is home to North Carolina’s second oldest town, more than 150 historic landmarks and the birthplace of one of the world’s most popular sodas. However Craven County’s lifeblood isn’t just landmarks, it’s being able to step back in time and experience those landmarks by walking through the gardens where state royalty once played or by cruising the rivers that brought the founding fathers to our shores. Luckily, we can have the best of both worlds in the present, where the quaint downtown shopping district of New Bern DAVIS MIMI G. PHOTO BY and the neighboring high-tech weapons aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in Havelock are an ideal blend of contemporary comforts and historical preservation.

HAVELOCK Havelock is best known as home to the Marine Corps’ largest air station, Cherry Point, one of the largest employers in Craven and neighboring Carteret County. With an annual air show that draws visitors from around the state and a variety of outreach programs throughout the year, the base maintains a close working relationship with the community. Havelock is also the site for the annual North Carolina Chili Festival in the fall, the only such event sanctioned by the International Chili Society. Details: City of Havelock, P.O. Box 368, Havelock,

18 | NCCOAST LIVING

NC 28532, 252-444-6400, cityofhavelock.com or the Havelock Chamber of Commerce, 252447-1101, havelockchamber.net.

NEW BERN On the heels of celebrating its 300th anniversary in 2010, North Carolina’s second oldest town is the colonial capital of the region. The town was founded by Swiss Baron Christopher de Graffenried, who named the site after Bern, Switzerland, beginning a longstanding bond between the two cities. Conveniently built where the Trent and Neuse rivers converge, the

picturesque downtown area offers breathtaking waterfront views and boasts a downtown hub of shopping, dining and attractions.

With more than 150 historic landmarks, New Bern is the perfect spot for history buffs to spend a day – or a weekend. Adding to the GETTING CONNECTED lure is the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola CRAVEN COUNTY VISITOR and a reproduction AND CONVENTION CENTER, of the original P.O. BOX 1713, NEW BERN, NC Georgian brick 28563, 800-437-5767 governor’s man- VISITNEWBERN.COM. sion in the heart of downtown at Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens. With a year-round schedule of historical programs and lectures, the site leads the way in history education for the region.

In 2010, Tryon Palace opened the NC History Center, which incorporates history with cutting edge technology. Details: City of New Bern, P.O. Box 1129, New Bern, NC 285631129, 252-636-4000, ci.new-bern.nc.us or the New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce, 252637-3111, newbernchamber.com.

RIVER BEND Just a few miles south of New Bern, this residential community is bordered by the Trent River on the south and a canal system on the east. Originally named the City of River Bend Plantation in 1980, the town changed its name in 1981.

The quiet golf-course community offers a variety of residential options, from condominiums to large private homes with golf course and water views. Fishing, sailing and kayaking make the neighborhoods popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Details: Town of River Bend, River Bend Town Hall, 45 Shoreline Dr., River Bend, NC 28562, 252-638-3870, ci.river-bend.nc.us.

TRENT WOODS Nestled along the Trent River, the quiet town of Trent Woods offers a tranquil waterfront lifestyle for everyone, filled with recreational opportunities. While Trent Woods is a popular retirement spot, it’s also a great place for a family just starting out. The town has been welcoming new residents with hospitality and a neighbor-helping-neighbor attitude since it incorporated in 1959. Details: Town of Trent Woods, George R. Scott Jr. Municipal Building, 912 Country Club Drive, Trent Woods, NC 28562, 252-637-9810.

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DESTINATION ONSLOW COUNTY two other island towns, North Topsail Beach enjoys some “island exclusivity” and is home to picturesque marshes on the sound side and beautiful dunes and beaches on the ocean side. These natural attractions allow tons of activities, including kayaking, beachcombing, boating and more. Details: Town of North Topsail Beach, 2008 Loggerhead Court, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460, 910-328-1349, north-topsail-beach.org.

RICHLANDS

A SENSE OF CO M M U N I T Y

T

PHOTO BY

DEPT. OF

DEFENSE

he first thing Onslow County brings to mind for most people is its military presence – and rightfully so. As the home to Marine Corps Base Camp, the largest Marine base on the East Coast, and Marine Corps Air Station New River, you don’t have to travel far before seeing “Welcome Home” signs or countless men and women dressed in uniform. However, there’s plenty more to Onslow County than just the military. Whether it’s a day on the beach, surfing, shopping, camping or a stroll through historic Swansboro, this is country living with the city comforts.

JACKSONVILLE Jacksonville is the commercial nexus of Onslow County and home to both Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station New River. Jacksonville has a small town feel, while still providing all the stores and conveniences associated with larger cities. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune is home to an active duty, dependent, retiree and civilian employee population of more than 150,000 people. Marine Corps Air Station New River provides a full array of aviation facilities supporting the Fleet Marine Force and other Department of Defense members.

In return, Jacksonville embraces its proud military background, saluting those who serve and their families. Details: City of Jacksonville, P.O. Box 128, Jacksonville, NC 28541, 910-938-5200, ci.jacksonville.nc.us.

SWANSBORO Historic Swansboro is full of waterfront

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charm. Located along the White Oak River, the town boasts everything from specialty shops and terrific restaurants on the downtown waterfront to eclectic annual events like the Mullet Festival. Go antiquing, charter fishing or dine at one of the town’s eateries while enjoying a perfect view. Historic Swansboro offers bicycle trails and plenty of places to put in a boat or kayak to sightsee on the go. Nearby Hammocks Beach State Park offers an excellent opportunity to view nature up close. Details: Town of Swansboro, 502 Church St., Swansboro, NC 28584, 910-326-4428, swansboro-nc.org or Swansboro Chamber of Commerce, 910-3261174, swansboroncchamber.com.

NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH For locally famous Stump Sound oysters and renowned inlet surf fishing, the only place to go is North Topsail Beach. Even though it shares a third of the Southern Outer Banks barrier island known as Topsail Island with

Richlands has the distinction of not only being an agricultural hub, but also the site of the first graded school, the first public high school and the first library in the county. The town boasts a beautiful historic district and is home to the Albert J. Ellis Airport, which offers daily flight service via US Airways Express and Delta. Details: Town of Richlands, 118 Hargett St., Richlands, NC 28574, 910-324-3301.

SNEADS FERRY Sneads Ferry is located on the New River near the northern tip of Topsail Island off NC Hwy 172. The river joins the IntraGETTING CONNECTED coastal Waterway at Sneads Ferry, ONSLOW COUNTY providing access to TOURISM the Atlantic Ocean. 800-982-2144 Sneads Ferry has ONSLOWCOUNTYTOURISM.COM a bustling commercial fishing community that takes in more fish than any other Onslow County port.

Seafood lovers never miss the Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival every August. Charter boats and headboat fishing is available, as well as horseback riding, shopping and great seafood restaurants. Details: Onslow County, 118 Old Bridge St., Jacksonville, NC 28540, 910-3474717, co.onslow.nc.us, sneadsferrynorthcarolina.com or Onslow County Tourism, onslowcountytourism.com, 800-982-2144.

HOLLY RIDGE Chartered in 1941, Holly Ridge is a thriving residential hamlet. The town’s population of 1,000 residents is a shadow of its former self, when, 60 years ago, there were more than 110,000 people living and working at Camp Davis, a World War II Army artillery-training base. Holly Ridge includes restaurants, shopping, golfing and more. Details: Town of Holly Ridge, 212 N Dyson St., Holly Ridge, NC 28445, 910-329-7081.

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DESTINATION PENDER COUNTY HAMPSTEAD

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ome to Topsail Island beaches, one of the oldest peanut plantations in North Carolina and a rich military history dating back to a Revolutionary War victory at Moore’s Creek Battleground, Pender County has been a favorite among visitors and locals for centuries. Also known as the Gateway to Wilmington, Pender County was officially founded in 1875 when it separated from New Hanover County. The name is a tribute to William Dorsey Pender, a Confederate general who was mortally wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg. Aside from its history, Pender County offers a plethora of family-oriented beaches, beautiful rivers, verdant maritime forests and is home to the North Carolina Blueberry Festival held each June in Burgaw.

TOPSAIL BEACH Seeking secluded sandy beaches and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets? Then travel southward on Topsail Island to Topsail Beach. This sleepy community is the smallest of the three on the island, only sporting approximately 600 residents.

Topsail Beach is a very conservationminded environment, partly due to its status as an official sea turtle sanctuary. The friendly seaside community also has a

22 | NCCOAST LIVING

quaint shopping district and vacant beaches that are just perfect for family fun. There are ample opportunities to relax while shore fishing, or you can try your hand at minigolf. For the more military-minded, the Topsail Island Museum explores the unique relationship Topsail Island had with the military during World War II. Details: Town of Topsail Beach, 820 S. Anderson Blvd, Topsail Beach, NC 28445-9831, 910-328-3377, topsailbeach.org.

Known as the “Seafood Capital of the Carolinas,” Hampstead is a blooming unincorporated community in Pender County. Located between Wilmington and Jacksonville on Hwy 17, Hampstead is home to three elementary schools in the area that all share the name Topsail, and funnel into one middle and high school.

Among sharing proximity to beautiful beaches and city comforts, Hampstead is also known for its abundant golfing scene.

The area supports four distinct courses, ranging from the affordable Topsail Greens to the fancy links located within the Belvedere Plantation.

The community is one of the fastest growing areas GETTING CONNECTED in the state. Rapid PENDER COUNTY expansion of the TOURISM county’s water sys- PO BOX 177, tem for the area BURGAW, NC 28425 has brought with 888-576-4756 it plans for a new VISITPENDER.COM sewer system. Also, the NC Department of Transportation has recently proposed a bypass around Hampstead that will ultimately tie into the new I-140 bypass around Wilmington. Details: Hampstead Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 211, Hampstead, NC 28443, 800-833-2483, hampsteadchamber.com.

SURF CITY Surf City is a small town on the border of Pender and Onslow counties. Surrounding both ends of the bridge to Topsail Island, Surf City is the largest of the three island towns, as well as the commercial center for the area. The town is home to a wonderful boardwalk for sound fishing and Surf City Pier, a haven for surf fishing. It is also home to the new 10,000 sq. ft. Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, which offers tours during the summer months.

Visitors and locals can enjoy bike tours of the island, a delight from spring through fall.

Additionally, if you enter the town via Hwy 50, you’ll cross the Intracoastal Waterway over one of the last swing bridges in North Carolina, a legacy to this unique area. Details: Town of Surf City, 214 N. New River Drive, Surf City, NC 28445-9821, 910-328-4131, surfcity.govoffice.com.

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STAYCATION

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A L L T H E R E A SO N S TO C A L L E A ST E R N N C H O M E W

hy wait all year for a single week at the beach when you can just move there, right?

It makes perfect sense. Who wouldn’t want to end the workday with an hour of surfing? Why not melt away your stress with entire weekends spent on the beach?

But eventually, it’s going to rain, summer is going to turn into fall or you’re simply not going to DAVIS be in the mood to rinse the sand off your feet.

MIMI G. PHOTO BY Then what? Well, there’s more to living near the beach than dips in the ocean. Eastern North Carolina is surrounded by museums, historic sites, landmarks, military milestones and homes for aquatic life ranging from sharks to turtles. There’s so much to do beyond the beach that you could take a mini vacation nearly every weekend without ever driving more than an hour away – around here we call those “staycations.” So unfold your map, fill up the car and get ready to turn those boring old “weeklong” vacations into year-round staycations.

26 | NCCOAST LIVING

CARTERET COUNTY CAPE LOOKOUT NATIONAL SEASHORE

Cape Lookout National Seashore is a 56-mile stretch of North Carolina’s Outer Banks featuring one of the state’s most recognizable lighthouses, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2009.

The lighthouse, which is open Thursday-Saturday during the summer months, is maintained by the National Park Service and its headquarters is located at the end of Island Road, Harkers Island. These three barrier islands make a prime spot for seashell hunting.

Because the seashore is only accessible by private boat or

ferry, this pristine area offers unparalleled fishing, camping and much more. Details: 252728-2250, nps.gov/calo.

NC AQUARIUM AT PINE KNOLL SHORES The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores gives visitors the opportunity to explore the coast from a different angle— underwater! Get up close and personal with shipwrecks without getting wet, have a staring match with a 350-pound sand tiger shark, watch river otters play or even touch a stingray. Aquarium exhibits let visitors tour North Carolina’s aquatic environments “from the mountains to the sea.” In

the 306,000-gallon Living Shipwreck exhibit, fierce-looking sand tiger sharks up to eight feet in length, hundreds of colorful fish, sea turtles and many other denizens of the deep glide around a three-quarter-scale replica of a German U-boat shipwrecked off the coast. Don’t miss the many educational programs offered for the whole family. Regular hours are 9am-5pm. Details: 252-2474003, ncaquariums.com.

FORT MACON STATE PARK With a new visitor’s center and a schedule of daily programs, one of the state’s most visited parks continues to draw visitors to the point at Atlantic Beach.

Fort Macon State Park encompasses 385 acres of beach, dunes and maritime forest, but it’s the pentagonal brick Civil War fortress garrisoned for the SpanishAmerican War that brings the visitors in droves. While some casements have been transformed into museum exhibits, others have been left untouched (except for a few safety precautions) so guests can truly experience what life in the fort was like. Hike the nature trail, fish from rock jetties or stop by the bathhouse area for the public swimming beach, boardwalk, picnic area and educational programs. Details: 252726-3775, ils.unc.edu/parkproject/visit/foma/home.html.

BEAUFORT HISTORIC SITE

Guided and self-guided tours are available as well as doubledecker bus tours of town. Don’t miss the art gallery full of work by regional artists. Check beauforthistoricsite.org for a calendar of major events organized by the Beaufort Historical Association.

Details: 800-575-SITE.

CORE SOUND WATERFOWL MUSEUM & HERITAGE CENTER Heritage is a vital thread to the Down East region of Carteret County and since its inception, the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum has been the ringleader in gathering and protecting those ties that bind the communities – fishing, hunting, boatbuilding and decoy carving. Located at the end of Harkers Island Road, next to the National Park Service, this newly-completed facility is a virtual clearinghouse of Down East history and memorabilia.

From community exhibits to the Jean Dale, a restored fishing vessel completed in 2010, the Waterfowl Museum is the place to come to learn more about this unique rural region. Details: 252728-1500, coresound.com.

THE HISTORY PLACE Morehead City’s only museum, The History Place, focuses on just that – the rich, abundant history of this waterfront area. Visit an early school room, peek in to a Victorian parlor to touch the wheels of spy Emeline

Located in the 100 block of Turner Street in the heart of Beaufort, the Beaufort Historic Site takes you back to the early days with the Historical Association’s collection of restored buildings, Living History programs and full calendar of annual events. See what life was like 300 years ago by browsing the Courthouse of 1796, peeking in to the apothecary shop and strolling through the Old Burying Ground.

Fort Macon State Park PHOTO BY

MIMI G.

DAVIS

NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores Pigott’s carriage. Civil War memorabilia, furniture, artwork, vintage clothing, glassware and more come together to paint a picture of what life was like in early Carteret County. Also on site, the Jack Spencer Goodwin Library, with more than 6,000 publications, genealogy materials, Civil War history collections and an extensive picture file, is available to the public for research. Details: 252247-7533, thehistoryplace.org.

NC MARITIME MUSEUM The NC Maritime Museum focuses on the area’s rich maritime history and its longstanding relationship with the sea that surrounds it. The past is researched, preserved and presented through exhibits, hands-on programs and field trips. Learn to sail, tour the port, or just gather for lunch to talk about the wild Spanish Mustangs that dot the adjacent island. Full programming and loads of annual events keep visitors coming back for more. The museum features artifacts from the local shipwreck believed to be Blackbeard’s flagship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Visitors with the shipbuilding bug can visit the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center across the street and either watch

the restoration and construction of wooden boats and ship models or join in one of the boatbuilding programs. Details: 252-728-7317, ncmaritimemuseum.org.

RACHEL CARSON RESERVE Referred to locally as Bird Shoal or Carrot Island, this portion of the NC National Estuarine Research Reserve is named after wildlife advocate, Rachel Carson and boasts breathtaking views of the natural habitat. Get up close to the salt marsh and flats, walk in the hoof prints of the island’s wild ponies and spend a day on your own personal stretch of beach. Only accessible by boat, the 2,650-acre reserve is a favorite place for hiking, shelling and exploring the natural and human processes that affect coastal areas.

For more information call 252838-0883 or nccoastalreserve.net.

CRAVEN COUNTY TRYON PALACE HISTORIC SITES & GARDENS The reconstructed Tryon Palace, originally built in 1770 for British Colonial governor William Tryon, served as North Carolina’s colonial capitol. The Georgian-style mansion fell into disrepair and was greatly dam(continued on page 28)

WWW.NCCOAST.COM | 27

PHOTO BY MIMI G. DAVIS

ONSLOW COUNTY MUSEUM

Tryon Palace (continued from page 27) aged by fire, however reconstruction began in the 1950s and continues to welcome visitors today. In 2010, the site opened the NC History Center, a stateof-the-art museum and meeting space. Details: 252-514-4900, tryonpalace.org.

CROATAN NATIONAL FOREST Get back to nature with the Croatan National Forest, offering hiking trails, boat launches, campgrounds and day-use areas.

Croatan crowd pleasers include the pocosin habitat, estuaries and a large number of carnivorous plants native to the area, including the Venus flytrap. Civil War buffs will want to visit the site where the Battle of New Bern was fought, now a portion of the national forest. Headquarters is located at 141 East Fisher Ave., just outside of New Bern. Details: 252-638-5628, cs.unca.edu/nfsnc.

NEW BERN FIREMEN’S MUSEUM Established in 1955, the New Bern Firemen’s Museum offers a unique perspective on New Bern’s heritage. Preserving New Bern fire fighting history, museum exhibits are original pieces of equipment from this city’s long and honored past. And as the first

28 | NCCOAST LIVING

city in North Carolina to charter a fire company, New Bern has a lot to show off. Details: 252-6364087, newbernmuseums.com.

ONSLOW COUNTY BEIRUT MEMORIAL On Oct. 23, 1983, the people of all nations watched in disbelief as the news came from Beirut of the tragic bombing and the deaths of 241 US Marines, all from Camp Lejeune. The Beirut Memorial was erected in honor of these men who died trying to uphold peace and freedom. The memorial is located off NC 24 (Lejeune Boulevard) at the entrance to Camp Johnson. Details: beirut-memorial.org.

HAMMOCKS BEACH STATE PARK Visitors looking for a more rustic, natural coastal experience can go to Hammocks Beach and enjoy surf fishing, hiking, camping, swimming, picnicking and shelling. Seventeen primitive campsites are available on Bear Island for year-round camping.

Park employees also present educational programs on such topics as sea turtles, sea life, pollution, the island’s history and shells. Details: 910-326-4881, ils.unc.edu/parkproject/visit/ habe/home.html.

The Onslow County Museum in Richlands is a public, nonprofit, educational institution whose purpose is to stimulate an interest in and teach about the cultural and natural history of Onslow County. Residents and visitors to the county can learn about its marine, agricultural and industrial resources and development and hopefully gain an understanding and appreciation of its past, present and future. Details: 910-324-5008, co.onslow.nc.us/museum.

PAMLICO COUNTY ORIENTAL HISTORY MUSEUM Located at 802 Broad St. in Oriental, the museum depicts everyday life in the sailing town of Oriental. Visitors can see everything from oyster scoops to a bronzed porthole from the shipwreck of the sailing steam Oriental, from which the town got its name. Details: 252-249-2493.

PAMLICO COUNTY HERITAGE CENTER AND MUSEUM This combined heritage center and museum is dedicated to the preservation of the rich history of Pamlico County. Changing exhibits feature hand-crafted farm, woodland and marine implements, equipment, modes of transportation and heavy machinery representative of rural eastern North Carolina during the 19th and 20th centuries. Open weekdays 1-4pm, on 10642 Highway 55 East, Grantsboro. Details: 252-745-2239.

PENDER COUNTY MISSILES AND MORE MUSEUM During the government’s use of Topsail Island between 1946 and 1948, more than 200 experimental rockets were fired from its shores, helping steer the US guided missile program. The museum celebrates the island’s elusive

past through artifacts, exhibits, oral histories and ongoing programs. While you’re here, make sure you watch out for the eight military towers that still grace the island – including two that have been incorporated into home construction. Details: 910-329-4446, topsailmissilesmuseum.org.

MOORE’S CREEK NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD Moore’s Creek is the site of a February 1776 American Revolution battle in which North Carolina Revolutionaries defeated a force of North Carolina loyalists, in part thwarting a British invasion of the Southern colonies. Visitors can follow a one-mile trail with exhibits leading through the battlefield and across Moore’s Creek.

The site is also a popular spot for fishing, nature walks and wildlife viewing. Details: 910-283-5591, nps.gov/mocr.

POPLAR GROVE PLANTATION Poplar Grove Plantation, between Hampstead and Wilmington, offers a snapshot of life on a peanut plantation. Costumed guides lead visitors through the restored mansion, recount its colorful history and demonstrate skills important to daily 19th Century life. Details: 910-686-9518, poplargrove.com.

TOPSAIL TURTLE HOSPITAL The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City helps nesting sea turtles and hatchlings, as well as sick and injured sea turtles.

Caring for an average of 20 sea turtles each day, volunteers administer medicine, food, water and lots of tender loving care in hopes the turtles can be rehabilitated and released back into their natural habitat.

Details: 910-328-3377, seaturtlehospital.org.

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ARTS & MUSIC MATTIE KING DAVIS ART GALLERY 100 Turner St., Beaufort, 728-5225 SCOTT TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY, INC. 214 Pollock St., Beaufort, staylor@clis.com VISION GALLERY 407-A6 Atlantic Beach Causeway, Atlantic Beach, 247-5550 WOOD ARTISTS’ GALLERY 1186 Salter Path Road, Salter Path, 726-1400

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hile the towns and hamlets that dot the Crystal Coast maintain an air of small-town charm, we’d also like to think we have access to a good amount of culture as well. We may not have all the Broadway plays, Van Gogh exhibits and big name concerts found in Y ET POTTER GES STRE ID BR most metropolitan hot spots – but there are certainly options for those interPHOTO BY ested in the arts and music. From small theater performances to venues for live music and plenty of art galleries to browse along the way, Carteret County has a little bit of something for everyone.

GATHERING GALLERIES From Down East folk art to pottery studios, the Crystal Coast has a rich heritage of artists and galleries that bring color to every corner of the county. Many galleries are owned by the artist as well, creating a textured experience for those lucky enough to see the latest works coming to life by clay, paint, metal, wood and even from old broken surfboards.

ART ESCAPES & FRAMES, INC. 2900 Arendell St., Morehead City, 247-5111 ARTFUL VENTURES 706 Cedar Point Blvd, Cedar Point, 393-3728 ARTS & THINGS 704 Evans St., Morehead City, 240-1979

ARTS COUNCIL OF CARTERET COUNTY 812 Evans St., Morehead City, 726-9156 BENEATH THE PALMS 1 West Ridge Center, Morehead City, 726-2111 BRIDGES STREET POTTERY 1920 Bridges St. Morehead City, 342-1134 CAROLINA ARTIST’S STUDIO GALLERY 801 Arendell St., Morehead City, 726-7550 CARTERET CONTEMPORARY ART 1106 Arendell St., Morehead City, 726-4071 DOWN EAST GALLERY 519 Front St., Beaufort, (800) 868-2766 FISH HEADS 108 Middle Lane, Beaufort, 728-7188 HANDSCAPES GALLERY 410 Front St., Beaufort, 728-6805 LAUGHING GULL GALLERY 2816 W. Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, 726-2362

*ARENDELL ROOM 715 Arendell St., Morehead City, 240-2753 *BACK STREET PUB 124 Middle Lane, Beaufort, 728-7108 BALLYHOO’S ISLAND SPORTS GRILL 140 Fairview Drive, Emerald Isle, 764-3247 BEACH TAVERN 413 W. Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, 247-4466 *CABANA CLUB 5386 Hwy 70, Morehead City, 222-0111 CABANA’S OCEANSIDE BAR & NIGHTCLUB 102 Islander Drive, Emerald Isle CHEF’S 105 105 S. 7th St., Morehead City, 240-1105 *CRAZY COYOTE SALOON 1106 Cedar Point Blvd, Cedar Point, 393-8900 CRU WINE BAR 120 Turner St., Beaufort, 728-3066 DOCK HOUSE 500 Front St., Beaufort, 728-4506 *EASTERN CAROLINA SHOWCASE THEATER 1311 Arendell St., Morehead City, 726-1501 *EMERALD CLUB 8802 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, 354-2929 FISH TALES 232 W. Beaufort Road, Beaufort, 504-7263 *JACK’S WATERFRONT BAR 513 Evans St., Morehead City, 247-2043 *MANGO’S 119 Atlantic Beach Causeway, Atlantic Beach, 342-7792 *MEMORIES BEACH & SHAG CLUB 128 E. Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach, 240-7424 *PADDY’S PUB 325 Mangrove Blvd, Emerald Isle, 354-7865 QUEEN ANNE’S REVENGE 510 Front St., Beaufort, 504-7272 SAMMY’S ICEHOUSE Corner of Evans and 6th streets, Morehead City, 648-8399 All numbers are area code 252 *denotes nightclub only

THE WORLD’S A STAGE Carteret County may be small, but it has a very active band of thespians in the Carteret Community Theatre that take on several plays and musicals each year. While small in venues and cast, people are often amazed by the talent the organization brings to the stage, making them a must-see. In the past year this small troupe had a list of plays that included “The Sound of Music,” “The Vagina Monologues,” “August: Osage County” and “Broadway at its Best.” Check the theater’s website carteretcommunitytheatre.org for 2011 productions.

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HISTORY

UNCOVERING BLACKBEARD’S INFAMOUS QUEEN ANNE’S REVENGE

BY MATTHEW ADKINS

T

hree hundred years ago, the coasts around North Carolina were a very different place. Shipbuilding, tobacco and fishing dominated the economy, the War of the Spanish Succession was in full swing and pirates ruled the waters. One pirate in particular found the barrier islands especially fruitful and plump with opportunity. He originally sailed under the captain Benjamin Hornigold, but quickly made a name for himself through the clever use of terror and violence. He had a sharp intelligence and a fearless demeanor.

The year was 1717, and the man was known around the world as Blackbeard.

In 1680, Edward Thatch (or possibly Teach) was most likely born in the English town of Bristol. Very little is known about his earlier life, but in 1716 he left England and joined the crew of pirate Benjamin Hornigold. He sailed and plundered with them until the capture of the French slave ship La Concorde de Nantes.

Hornigold gave the vessel to Blackbeard and made him its captain. The ship was renamed Queen Anne’s Revenge (QAR), either in sympathy for Anne and the Stuart claim on the British throne or in reference to the Spanish Succession, which was known in the Ameri-

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cas as Queen Anne’s War. Blackbeard, sailing with Queen Anne’s Revenge as his flagship, led a profitable, but short career. In 1718, he ran aground trying to enter Beaufort Inlet, sinking his prized vessel. He was captured and pardoned, but soon returned to piracy. This aroused the attention of then governor of Virginia Alexander Spotswood, who dispatched Lt. Robert Maynard. On Nov. 22, 1718 the two had a ferocious battle off the shores of Ocracoke Island in which Blackbeard was killed.

Zip forward to today and you will find modern piracy a distant and strange phenomenon.

The pirates of old have since been romanticized and are now viewed as an irreplaceable part of our historical heritage. QAR project director Dr. Mark Wilde-Ramsing has been working since the mid-1990s to unearth some history about perhaps the most famous pirate ship of them all the Queen Anne’s Revenge.

Along with QAR project field director Chris Southerly, the team finished up its six-week dive season in late October, 2010.

Once the artifacts are pulled up, they must go through a delicate process designed to reverse the aging effects of the ocean. Shanna Daniel, in charge of the conservation procedure, explains it further.

“They are first put into wet storage and eventually X-rayed. Once the artifact has been established, the material is broken down with various processes.”

Processes such as electrolysis, a method that uses electrical currents, to separate naturally occurring elements.

“It is very important to remove the salt, especially on the wooden pieces,” she continues.

“We have to take it very slow to avoid any unnecessary damage. An average-sized cannon takes around five years to be ready for display.”

Right now, only about five percent of what has been discovered is currently on display.

The rest is either tucked away in storage, in the labs, or still underwater. Director of NC Museums, Joseph Schwarzer, explains the significance of Blackbeard’s story.

“Ten years ago, Blackbeard was a legend – nothing concrete. Now we have tangible facts about piracy and Blackbeard through efforts of conservation of artifacts that normally would have destroyed themselves. It’s extremely important to the community that they get to see and learn about this national treasure.”

Plans for a major renovation at the NC Maritime Museum are underway, and the new 11,000 square foot exhibit is expected to open in 2011.

“North Carolina has a ton of valuable underwater artifacts. We do not want to turn this into a pirate museum, but there is no denying that this will be an enormous point of destination for economical tourism,” encourages Schwarzer.

For more information, check out ncculture. com or ncmaritimemuseum.org.

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EDUCATION

MOVI NG TO THE HEAD O F THE CL ASS W hen it comes to weighing out the pros and cons of relocating to a new area, perhaps no issue carries more weight for a family than the school system that will be responsible for teaching and influencing their children. Beyond the amenities of fishing and gorgeous sunsets on the beach, or even more pressing matters like affordable housing and the job market, choosing the right school system is a decision that can have lasting social and economic influence.

Make sure you’re educated on the school system your child will be a part of by taking a look at the counties listed below. And there’s room to think beyond graduation as well with training and associate’s degrees offered at community colleges. No four-year universities are in the five-county area of Carteret, Craven, Onslow, Pender and Pamlico, however, East Carolina University, located in Greenville and UNCWilmington are both close enough for the kids to drive home on the weekends to do their laundry.

CARTERET COUNTY The Carteret County Public School System serves the students of Carteret County from Cedar Point to Cedar Island. There are 17 public schools committed to creating opportunities for all students to do their best and succeed. The school system employs approxi-

34 | NCCOAST LIVING

mately 1,200 individuals and is the largest employer in the county.

Carteret Community College is located on the shores of beautiful Bogue Sound – part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. With more than 100 courses to choose from, students can pursue a certificate, diploma or associate degree.

The college transfer curriculum enables students to obtain an associate in arts or associate in science degree and transfer to a four-year institution. The college also offers general education opportunities for upgrading job skills, gaining certification and satisfying personal interests with a variety of corporate and community education courses. The student body consists of approximately 1,900 curriculum and 4,500 continuing education students, reflecting a rich diversity of age, income, ethnicity and educational background.

CARTERET COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS, K-12 CARTERET COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM 107 SAFRIT DRIVE, BEAUFORT, NC 28516 252-728-4583 CARTERETCOUNTYSCHOOLS.ORG HIGHER EDUCATION CARTERET COMMUNITY COLLEGE 3505 ARENDELL ST. MOREHEAD CITY, NC 28557 252-222-6000 CARTERET.EDU

CRAVEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS, K- 12 CRAVEN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM 3600 TRENT ROAD NEW BERN, NC 28562 252-514-6300 CRAVEN.K12.NC.US

CRAVEN COUNTY There are 24 schools in Craven County to cover its enrollment of more than 14,700 students from New Bern, Havelock, Bridgeton, Cove City, Dover, River Bend, Trent Woods, Vanceboro and Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.

With approximately 3,000 students a semester and two campuses – one in New Bern, the other in Havelock – Craven Community College is continuously growing to meet the needs of Eastern North Carolina. The college is a leader in computer technology and offers an ever-expanding registered nursing program, as well as an aeronautical technology program. In addition to a college transfer program, credit programs range from criminal justice and education to manufacturing and electronics engineering technology.

An Adult Enrichment Academy, fire training, literacy education and other workforce training courses help round out the college’s offerings to the community.

HIGHER EDUCATION CRAVEN COMMUNITY COLLEGE 800 COLLEGE COURT NEW BERN, NC 28562 252.638.4131 CRAVENCC.EDU

ONSLOW COUNTY The Onslow County School District, home to many of the military families surrounding Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, has 35 schools. There are 18 elementary schools, one early childhood development school, eight middle schools, seven high schools and one alternative school. The Onslow County School System serves approximately 21,500 students.

Coastal Carolina Community College provides services and integrated training solutions to ensure Onslow County’s industries are among the most competitive in the global marketplace. The college’s training professionals work with manufacturers, assembly companies, technology intensive customer care centers, and small businesses to improve their business performance by aligning people strategies

HIGHER EDUCATION PAMLICO COMMUNITY COLLEGE 5049 HWY 306 S. GRANTSBORO, NC 28529-0185 252-249-1851 PAMLICO.CC.NC.US PAMLICOCC.EDU

ONSLOW COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS, K-12 ONSLOW COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM 200 BROADHURST ROAD JACKSONVILLE, NC 28540 910-455-2211 ONSLOW.K12.NC.US HIGHER EDUCATION COASTAL CAROLINA COMMUNITY COLLEGE 444 WESTERN BOULEVARD JACKSONVILLE, NC 28546 910-938-6792 COASTALCAROLINA.EDU

PAMLICO COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS, K-12 PAMLICO COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM 507 ANDERSON DRIVE BAYBORO, NC 28515 252-745-4171 PAMLICO.K12.NC.US

PENDER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS, K-12 PENDER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM 925 PENDERLEA HWY BURGAW, NC 28425 910-259-2187 PENDERCOUNTYSCHOOLS.NET HIGHER EDUCATION CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE 411 N. FRONT ST. WILMINGTON, NC 28401-3993 910-362-7000 CFCC.EDU

with business strategies. Curriculum programs are designed to provide college transfer, technical and vocational education. In addition, continuing education offerings provide occupational skill training, basic skills and community service education, with a course for almost every interest and continuing education need.

PAMLICO COUNTY Pamlico Community College currently serves more than 15 percent of the county’s adult population, approximately 250-300 curriculum students and 1,600-1,800 continuing education students per year. PCC is a fully accredited two-year community college with programs from computer technology to accounting to allied health programs. A contract program with ECU enables students in specific education programs to transfer into four-year programs.

PENDER COUNTY Cape Fear Community College of Wilmington, with a convenient satellite campus in Hampstead, is among the largest of North Carolina’s community colleges. More than 25,000 people attend classes at CFCC every year. The college has 60 technical programs in a wide range of areas to give students hands-on training to get a job right after graduation.

The community college also offers a college transfer program where students can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree at a fraction of the cost of attending a four-year college or university. The growing community service course offerings include arts and crafts, sailing, kayaking and motorcycle safety. In the college’s Center for Business, Industry and Government, low-cost classes are offered in computer training, construction, foreign languages, leadership and management.

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FINDING THE FAIRWAY Isle Bridge, is an 18-hole championship course with “Tifeagle” greens and Bermuda fairways GOLF COURSES DOT THE LANDSCAPE OF known as Silver Creek Golf EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA. Resort. This beautiful par-72 HERE ARE A FEW OTHERS YOU MAY WANT golf course designed by Gene TO TRY OUT. Hamm offers four sets of tees BELVEDERE COUNTRY CLUB where men can be challenged (HAMPSTEAD), 910-270-2703 by 7,005 yards of course while CASTLE BAY COUNTRY CLUB (HAMPSTEAD), 910-270-1978 ladies can enjoy 4,962 yards EMERALD GOLF CLUB worth. Challenge yourself with (NEW BERN), 252-633-4440 elevated greens, water hazards JACKSONVILLE COUNTRY CLUB and bunkers. Prior to your game, (JACKSONVILLE), 910-346-9255 warm up on the driving range or NEW BERN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB work on your stroke at the put(NEW BERN), 252-637-4061 ting greens. Call 252-393-8058 NORTH SHORE COUNTRY CLUB (SNEADS FERRY), 910-327-2410 to book your tee time.

OLDE POINT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Don’t miss out on the Crys(HAMPSTEAD), 910-270-2403 tal Coast’s premier golf club, PARADISE POINT GOLF COURSE Star Hill Golf Club, nestled in (CAMP LEJEUNE), 910-451-5445 the heart of Cape Carteret near QUAKER NECK COUNTRY CLUB Emerald Isle and minutes away (TRENTON), 252-224-5736 from Swansboro. Celebrating ROCK CREEK GOLF COURSE (JACKSONVILLE), 910-324-5151 more than 30 years of golf traRIVER BEND GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB ditions and 27 championship (NEW BERN), 252-638-2819 holes, Star Hill features three TABERNA COUNTRY CLUB nine-hole courses, the Lakes, (NEW BERN), 252-514-2854 Pines and Sands, with bentTOPSAIL GREENS GOLF CLUB grass greens sure to excite the (HAMPSTEAD), 910-270-2883 average golfer and challenge ew sports can deliver the scenic backdrop golfers the expert. For more informaenjoy during a round of golf on the Carolina coast. tion, call 252-393-8111.

From Virginia to South Carolina, blend into the landscape with a mix of lush Those looking for real coastal golfing won’t maritime forests, beach and water views; however, the Crystal Coast seems be able to beat the Country Club of the to be a Mecca in the middle with a concentration of six golf courses. And with Crystal Coast, a semi-private course nestled so many people choosing this area to retire, courses remain steady through- among sand dunes and the maritime forest out the year with vacationers, retirees, beginners and pros all taking a of Pine Knoll Shores. Offering 18 holes of swing at the challenges and beauty they have to offer. Even two-time tall pines, majestic oaks and a view of Bogue US Open winner and World Golf Hall of Fame inductee Curtis Strange Sound, the Country Club of the Crystal Coast is the only course on the island. Despite being bought a home in Morehead City, leaving him just minutes from any of limited to such a small area, the course still the area’s challenging courses. offers 5,925 yards of play and includes a pro shop, tennis courts and clubhouse with lounge, restaurant and banquet facilities. The Country putting green. For more information call, 252Most courses feature clubhouses open to the Club of the Crystal Coast is located at 152 247-2541 or visit brandywinegolf.com. public at competitive rates, with resident pros Oakleaf Drive in Pine Knoll Shores. For more Beaufort’s only golf community is the North and well-equipped pro shops. information, call 252-726-1034.

River Club. Located just five miles from the Accessed from Hwy 70 just west of MoreTucked in the heart of Morehead City and historic Beaufort waterfront, the championhead City, Brandywine Bay Golf Club is an stretched along the Newport River is Moreship course is open to the public with resident 18-hole, par-71 championship course in the reshead City Country Club. An atmosphere of and nonresident memberships available. The idential resort, Brandywine Bay. With four sets picturesque water views and bentgrass greens, North River Club offers PGA professionals on of tees and just over 6,500 yards from the chamthis course offers a swimming pool and memstaff, a large driving range and a putting green. pionship tees, Brandywine Bay is a rewarding bership to residents of all the surrounding For more information, call 252-728-5525 or challenge for golfers of any skill level. The mix communities and counties. For more informavisit northrivergolfclub.com. of water and sand hazards inspires many golftion, call 252-726-4917 or visit 2900 Country On Hwy 58, 3.5 miles north of the Emerald ers to hone their skills on the practice range and Club Road in Morehead City.

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ON THE HOOK

SURF FISHING 101: S EC R E TS TO S U CC ESS

BY WAYNE JUSTICE ishing is a rewarding recreational pastime and a great way to enjoy our coast. Many people who visit the Crystal Coast know that surf fishing peaks as our traditional tourist season winds down. And now that you’re here for good, maybe it’s time to join the ranks of anglers pursuing the ocean’s bounty.

First, buy a fishing license. See the recreational license section of the NC Division of Marine Fisheries website, ncfisheries.net, or go by a local tackle shop for information.

While at the tackle shop, you can pick up an affordable starter rod and reel combo for less than $50. If

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you are on a budget or new to the sport, a seven-foot foot rod with a spinning reel spooled with 15-pound line can get you started and handle most of what is swimming within casting range of the shore. However, experienced anglers know there is no perfect rod and reel that fits every scenario. I have a light set-up for speckled trout, flounder and a mix of other small nearshore fish, and a heavier combo for drum or sharks.

Regardless of what rod and reel you choose, purchase a sand spike to keep your gear out of the sand, and rinse everything down thoroughly after every use.

Now, all you need are bait and tackle and you are ready for action. Anglers often use live or cut baits to lure fish in the suds to bite. Shrimp, squid and bloodworms are all popular and each has advantages in

R ES I D E N T A D V I SO R

T

certain conditions. Get the freshest bait possible and avoid frozen bait unless it is your only option. I personally love to use fresh mullet to target flounder, red drum and bluefish. Small finger mullet can be fished whole or cut into chunks. I fillet larger fish to use as cut bait but be careful that the size of the bait isn’t too large for the hook you are using.

Anglers can choose from a number of different bottom rigs.

The popular two-drop bottom rig can catch a variety of species. Pick up some hooks and some pyramid weights to catch “a mess” of spot, sea mullet and pompano. I also keep fish-finder rigs for red drum, Carolina rigs for flounder and fireball rigs for bluefish in my tackle box. You never know what may show up on the beach in the fall, and it is good to be prepared.

The same goes for artificial lures. Many work well in the surf, but certain lures have gained a fish-catching reputation. I love to fish soft plastics and slow-sinking mirror lures for speckled trout and red drum. I have found flounder will rarely turn down a gold kastmaster spoon fished slowly through the wash, and there is nothing more fun than catching big bluefish right at your feet on an old topwater plug.

With so many tempting options, anglers often find themselves in need of a larger tackle box. It is

possible, however, to get by with just the basics and without a big budget. A day of surf fishing can cost as little as $10, once you have a rod and reel and license.

Before you head to the beach, it is important to learn to recognize local fish species and understand size limits and other regulations if you are planning to keep any of your catch. Many species look similar, and it is possible to misidentify your catch and inadvertently keep an undersized fish.

Anglers also should be mindful of leaving a “small footprint” with their activities. Help keep the beach clean and wildlife safe – always recycle your old fishing line. Only keep what you will eat, and consider the joys of catch and release. I personally get more joy watching big fish swim away after a good fight more than harvesting them, but I must admit to depleting the local flounder population when I am lucky enough to catch one over 15 inches!

Wayne Justice is the special activities coordinator at the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.

The aquarium offers a number of fishing programs designed to inform anglers and promote fishery conservation. See the Pine Knoll Shores section of ncaquariums. com or call 252-247-4003 for more information.

he boxes are unpacked, you’ve met the neighbors and your flip flops are already starting to show some wear, but you’re not officially a resident yet. Remember, Big Brother wants to know you’re in town, too. So don’t forget to fill out your North Carolina voter registration, vehicle registration and to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license if you’re settling down from out of state.

For information on changing your mailing address and having mail forwarded, visit the US Postal Service website at USPS.com.

Much of the process for changing and establishing your mail service can be accomplished online.

REGISTER TO VOTE Residents can register while conducting business with any driver’s license examination office, such as applying for or renewing a driver’s license, or by contacting the local county Board of Elections office. In Carteret, that office is located in the Beaufort Square Shopping Center, 1702 Live Oak St. in Beaufort, along with other county departments including

SELECT AREA DRIVER’S LICENSE LOCATIONS: CARTERET COUNTY 5347 HIGHWAY 70 W, MOREHEAD CITY 252-726-5586 CRAVEN COUNTY 2106 NEUSE BLVD., NEW BERN 252-514-4734 ONSLOW COUNTY 229 WILMINGTON HIGHWAY (US 17), JACKSONVILLE 910-347-3613 PAMLICO COUNTY 13451 NC HIGHWAY 55, BAYBORO 252-745-4539 PENDER COUNTY 805 S. WALKER STREET, BURGAW 910-259-2799

the Parks and Recreation Department and the Soil and Water Conservation Office. The Carteret County Public Library has also relocated to the site.

For more information on voter registration, visit sboe.state.nc.us.

DRIVER’S LICENSE AND VEHICLE REGISTRATION To obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina, an applicant must have at least two acceptable forms of identification. You must also complete and pass the written, sign and vision tests and if you surrender a valid license from another state, it is up to the examiner’s discretion whether to require a road test. Proof of residency and liability insurance on your car are required, as is possession of a social security card. Remember that new licenses are mailed to your home by the DMV so expect a delay of 5-10 days between taking tests and receiving a license.

After moving to North Carolina, you must register your vehicle at the expiration of the registration of your vehicle in your prior state of residence (usually 30 days), or upon finding gainful employment, whichever occurs first.

To register, the DMV requires the title (unless it is in the possession of a lien holder) and a valid registration card from the state of prior registration. Private passenger automobiles also require a title fee and a registration fee in order to obtain a license plate and validation decals.

For active military or enrolled college students who are residents of another state, a change of registration may not be required. For additional information, visit the NC Division of Motor Vehicles’ website, dmv.dot.state.nc.us.

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LOCAL FLAVOR

PHOTO BY MICHAEL MOORE

‘ S E A’ W H AT YO U ’ R E M I SS I N G

BY MATTHEW ADKINS

I

f delicious seafood, music and crafts are your ultimate passions in life, then the North Carolina coast is one of the best places for you to be during October. Fall is festival time and what better way to spend the weekends than gobbling down all sorts of delectable treats with your family?

The second largest festival in the state and 2010 winner of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 Event/Festival of the Year, the all-encompassing NC Seafood Festival has been held in Morehead on the first weekend of October for the past 24 years. While exact figures on festival goers are relatively hard t o pin down, it is safe to say the number of attendees usually totals well into the 100,000’s.

With moderate foot traffic to and from the festival, the back roads and sidewalks leading up begin to feel like an extension of the event. The surrounding architecture and neighborhood make for a scenic jaunt while the sounds and anticipation

42 | NCCOAST LIVING

for the festival pull you along.

Stretched throughout the streets of Morehead City’s downtown waterfront, the festival is approachable from all angles, with pedestrians freely coming and going. The first thing encountered could be the NC Aquarium exhibit, where, under the supervision of professionals, children are able to interact with various reptiles, such as turtles, snakes and lizards. Or perhaps you’ll join the crowd at the Oyster Rock Pub Beer Tent. Spirits are high as the crowd shuffles back and forth to the music. Space inside the tent is usually rather tight, so, like most everything else at the Seafood Festival, showing up early is a must.

Somewhere in between those two, the local library has its

presence, giving away free books and movie cassettes to the public. Donations for the free literature were kindly accepted, naturally, but not necessarily required. This always is a great place to spend a few minutes browsing. It’s a bit of a treasure hunt. Who knows what sorts of books you may find if you spend a bit of time looking?

And, of course, there is the crowd pleasing BMX Stunt show. The performance is a real jaw dropper as a few professional riders from around the world attempt skillful maneuvers while flying high in the air. Interested festival goers line the boundary ropes and scream madly as each rider launches himself skyward, twisting and spinning several times before making a smooth landing. When the riders take a water break, the audience really pulls it together as the commentator dispenses BMX swag to the masses. Don’t worry if you happen to miss the first show. As it is one of the major crowd attractors, it is often repeated two or three times a day.

Other draws include the various concerts on different stages around the festival. The music selections are diverse, ranging from rock to beach music to traditional Cajun melodies. If you are looking to get off your feet for a cou-

ple minutes, these are the perfect places to grab a seat and rest up.

Once you are ready for action again, make your way to the corner of 7th and Evans. Here you will find the rides that form a central hub to which everything else seems to radiate from. The area is divided into two distinct halves.

The adult side features a collection of rides with exciting names such as the Scat, Loop Plane and Sea Ray. One of the biggest hits for 2010 was the Super Shot, slowly raising people high above the surrounding buildings before quickly plummeting them straight down.

On the kid’s side the atmosphere is often more chaotic than its counterpart, even though the rides are less extreme. Mobs of children can reliably be found running around screaming in absolute delight as they determine which ride to go on next. Whether they are entering into the confusing Monkey Maze or waiting in line for the Barrel of Fun, kids are practically guaranteed a good time here.

Lit up charmingly with myriad flashing neon lights, the rides are operational well into the night.

Mechanical attractions are not all that the area offers, though.

With a selection that rivals almost anything other than the state fair, plenty of carnival games are present, offering whoever pays a couple of dollars the chance to win stuffed animals or the tradi-

MUST

PHOTO BY MICHAEL MOORE

tional goldfish. A few vendors are also around, selling typical vendor food such as cotton candy and stuffed Italian sausage. However, you must venture down the street if you are looking seafood.

Once you are on the move again, the most noticeable thing is the different smells. The aromas change as you move down the line, so if you don’t particularly enjoy those constant whiffs of roasted shrimp with butterfly potatoes or black-eyed pea and alligator chili, you can always keep shuffling forward until you find something you like. This particular Seafood Festival, the spinach clam chowder vendor happened to champion the most … distinct … odor.

There is much to be tried and tasted. For starters, why not begin with some shrimp scampi or lobster bites covered in your favorite dipping sauce? Or perhaps

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

DO

Not Sure if You’re a Local or a Tourist Yet? Why Not Be Both by Taking Advantage of These Popular Annual Events?

you are in more of a crabby mood and would prefer some sea spuds (baked potato with crab) with a side of crab balls and French fries. Fried alligator nuggets are always a treat and pair nicely along with shrimp rolls, clam strips, fried grouper, or even grilled mahi mahi.

“I always try to try something new every year. I have had alligator before, so this year I went for the Louisiana crawfish and Cajun shrimp fajitas,” explains Jill Adkins of Swansboro. “I wasn’t too keen on the crawfish, but the fajita was absolutely delicious!”

Bringing the preparation of some of that marvelous seafood cooking into better focus is the Chef Tent. Here, cuisine connoisseurs can be dazzled by cooking demonstrations by various highly renowned chefs. Two large screens posted above the make-

shift kitchens allow everyone in the room to follow along as the seafood is artfully prepared and presented. Also in the Chef Tent you can often find other food related booths, such as the Texas Pete Sauce station as well as an interesting section concerning the APC Prawn Farm.

And finally there are the craft booths. Talented potters, sculptors, musicians, jewelry makers, photographers and a plethora of other artists line the streets selling their wares. The depth and range of what is offered is staggering and presents way too much to properly take completely in. There really is something for everyone if you spend the time to look.

If you simply cannot see everything in one trip, don’t worry.

The Seafood Festival is a threeday event, running from Friday to Sunday. The gates are open around 11am each day and stay that way until 11pm on Friday/ Saturday (5pm on Sunday). For a different experience than what you may be used to, try going after sunset. Things usually loosen up and get more jovial later on as the day crowd leaves and the night crowd slowly filters out of the Oyster Rock Beer Tent. There is also a fireworks display around 9pm on Saturday. Though, regardless of when you come, the Seafood Festival is definitely one of the area’s largest celebrations.

Be sure not to miss it!

JANUARY

DOLPHIN DIP. Each New Year’s Day the Dolphin Dip Foundation brings people together to celebrate life and cleanse their souls by taking a dip in the ocean. Roland Ave, Surf City Beach Access. Details: 910-526-3788, topsailcoc.com.

RUNNING OF THE DRAGON. In China, the dragon represents power, wisdom and strength and brings wealth and good luck to his neighbors. In Oriental folks hope the same is true as they line the streets with noisemakers and gather their luck by touching the dragon. Details: visitoriental.com. (continued on page 44)

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for a day-long celebration. The event features local, regional and nationally touring acts. Details: newbern-nc.org.

(continued from page 43)

FEBRUARY

GLOUCESTER MARDI GRAS. Get a feel for the Mississippi Delta with gumbo, dance and music.

Featuring and led by the Cajun/ Zydeco musicians of Unknown Tongues, this festive event is free and open to all who want to join in the spirit of the rural Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana in a Down East setting. Costumes are welcomed (bring your beads!) and there’s lots of fun for the kids. Held at the Gloucester Community Center. Call 252729-8021 for information.

CAROLINA CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL. Featuring chocolatiers from across the nation offering samples and sales of their tasty treats at the Crystal Coast Civic Center along with a variety of special events.

Details: 877-848-4976, carolinachocolatefestival.com.

TASTE OF CORE SOUND. Sample some of the region’s plethora of seafood at the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center fundraising. Details: 252728-1500.

SUMMERTIME BLUES SURF ART AND MEMORABILIA SILENT AUCTION. This fundraiser at the Watermark Restaurant, Atlantic Beach, supports the Buddy Pelletier Surfing Foundation.

Details: buddy.pelletier.com.

MARCH EMERALD ISLE ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVAL. Featuring more than 75 arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, clowns and static displays along with amusement rides, a climbing wall and face painters. Avid runners can compete in the 8K Road Race.

Details: 252-354-6350.

TASTE OF NEW BERN. Local restaurants, eateries and specialty food shops offer a taste of their menus and showcase their skills and innovative cuisine. Features live music and

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BEAUFORT OLD HOMES AND GARDENS TOUR. Explore

PHOTO BY MIMI G. DAVIS

a culinary combat competition.

Details: 252-637-7972.

SWANSBORO ROTARY’S OYSTER ROAST. This all-you-can-eat and drink event features steamed oysters, flounder, clam chowder, a pig pickin’, hushpuppies, coleslaw, hotdogs with chili, beer, soft drinks and coffee.

Details: 910-326-6175.

APRIL

BEAUFORT WINE AND FOOD WEEKEND. This annual event thrills the senses, offering festivalgoers a tantalizing taste of food, wine and art through wine tastings, dinners, gala events and more with celebrity and regional chefs and a full list of winemakers. Details: beaufortwineandfood.com.

JAZZ AND BLUES FEST. Various jazz and blues musicians come together for a weekend of performances in New Bern.

Details: jazzandbluesfest.com.

NEWPORT PIG COOKIN’ CONTEST. Dish up some good times and family fun at the nation’s largest whole hog barbecue.

Concession stands, rides, crafts, bake sales and live entertainment with plates of the best barbecue around. Details: newportpigcooking.com.

NEW BERN HOMES TOUR. Historic homes in New Bern will swing open their doors in support of the New Bern Historical Society.

Visit private homes, churches, gardens and landmarks. Details: newbernhistorical.org.

WESTERN CARTERET PUBLIC LIBRARY’S HOMES TOUR AND ART SHOW. This annual event allows guests a sneak peek into private beach homes to raise funds for the library. Details: 252-354-2916.

MAY

BEAUFORT MUSIC FESTIVAL. Whatever style of music makes your heart sing, you’re sure to find it here at this familyoriented weekend of free outdoor concerts. Details: beaufortmusicfestival.com.

beautifully-restored historic homes, glorious gardens, churches, artist studios and public buildings throughout Beaufort thanks to the Beaufort Historical Association. The program’s Antique Show & Sale runs concurrently at the Crystal Coast Civic Center. Details: beauforthistoricsite.org.

BIG ROCK BLUE MARLIN TOURNAMENT. Fun and excitement come to the Morehead City waterfront with one of the largest sport-fishing tournaments in the country and a purse that has many times topped $1 million. Details: thebigrock.com.

MCAS CHERRY POINT AIR SHOW. MCAS Cherry Point in Havelock opens its gates to the public for this annual air show that highlights the latest in Marine Corps war-fighting technology and military aviation along with thrilling acrobatics and historic demonstrations. Details: cherrypointairshow.com.

WOODEN BOAT SHOW. The week begins with an opportunity to sail aboard traditional boats and concludes with more than 50 wooden classic and antique boats on exhibit. Demonstrations and hands-on workshops for professional boatbuilders, enthusiasts and new fans of wooden boats round out the event. NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort. Details: 252-728-7317.

square in historic downtown Burgaw. Details: visitpender.com.

JUNE

JULY

headquarters is at the Swansboro Rotary Civic Center. The public is invited to come see what the boats bring in at weigh-ins held at Hammocks Beach State Park.

Details: swansbororotary.com.

charity competition at Oceanana Pier in Atlantic Beach gives spectators a chance to see professional and amateur surfers battle against one another for trophies and bragging rights.

Details: 252-727-7917, buddy. pelletier.com.

SWANSBORO ROTARY KING MACKEREL BLUE WATER TOURNAMENT. Tournament

BERNAROO. New Bern Parks and Recreation Department’s Bernaroo arts and music festival converges on Union Point Park

THE NORTH CAROLINA BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL. Held on the courthouse

BUDDY PELLETIER MEMORIAL LONGBOARD CLASSIC. A local

ORIENTAL CROAKER FESTIVAL. An all-American, small-town Independence Day celebration.

DECEMBER

Includes live music, a kids fun park, arts and crafts vendors, nautical flea market, parade and Croaker Festival Regatta.

Details: 252-249-0555, croakerfestival.org.

CENTURIES OF CELEBRATIONS AT TRYON PALACE. Tryon Palace houses are decorated for the holidays in different time periods, with “very special” holiday tours and incredible holiday lights.

Details: 252-514-4935.

BARTA BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB BILLFISH TOURNAMENT. This NC Governor’s Cup Series tournament sets up base on the Beaufort waterfront with prizes for marlin releases and weigh-ins for tuna, dolphin and wahoo. Kid-friendly event offers low entry fees and supports the Boys and Girls Clubs of Coastal Carolina.

Details: bartabillfish.com.

HISTORIC BEAUFORT ROAD RACE. This popular road race takes place on the third Saturday in July and includes a 10K run, a 5K run and walk and a 1-mile run and walk. There are also wheelchair events and a 5K baby-jogger race. Entry fees vary. Details: beaufortroadrace. com.

AUGUST

CAROLINA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL. Theatrics by the Carolina Shakespeare Festival take to the stage each summer with its own interpretation of a classic work.

Details: csfest.com.

OUTER BANKS WILDLIFE SHELTER’S SAND SCULPTING CONTEST. Held at The Atlantis Lodge in Pine Knoll Shores, participants are invited to spend a day on the beach playing in the sand to raise money for wildlife rescue.

Details: 252-240-1200.

CORE SOUND DECOY FESTIVAL. bountiful seafood with a fun party for the entire family. A Shrimp Ball is held one week prior to the event. Details: 910327-3255.

SEPTEMBER

CRYSTAL COAST SUPER BOAT GRAND PRIX. Entertainment, including several bands in downtown Morehead City, and a super boat race at the NC State Port. Details: 252-4228853 or e-mail kmccann@ crystalcoastgrandprix.com.

OCTOBER

colorful kites of every kind at the Sheraton in Atlantic Beach.

Activities for the whole family.

Details: 252-247-7011, kitesbirdstuff.com.

NC CHILI FESTIVAL & BIG BOY TOY SHOW. Featuring red chili, salsa, chili verde and wing competitions. There is also live entertainment, food, games and arts and crafts. Details: havelockchamber.net.

MUM FEST. New Bern blossoms

SNEADS FERRY SHRIMP FESTIVAL. More than 40 years old, the Shrimp Festival is a two-day affair that celebrates the area’s

NC SEAFOOD FESTIVAL. Visitors come from all around to the

BEAUFORT PIRATE INVASION.

NEW BERN GHOSTWALK. Features a number of ghostly homes and “spirits,” each providing its own tale from New Bern’s colorful past. Details: newbernhistorical.org.

CAROLINA KITE FEST. See and fly

with this chrysanthemum-based festival – a weekend celebration of flowers, entertainment, great food and of course, good old-fashioned Southern hospitality. Expect entertainment, amusement rides, arts and crafts vendors, commercial and food vendors, roving dance troupes, street performers and thousands of mums at Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens.

Details: mumfest.com.

This family-friendly weekend sees pirates invade the hamlet of Beaufort only to be captured and tried on the grounds of the Beaufort Historic Site. Weekend includes a barbecue, party and parade. Details: 252-728-5225.

Morehead City waterfront during the first weekend of October for the state’s second largest and tastiest festival. Enjoy vendors selling seafood specialties of every kind imaginable, arts and crafts, souvenirs and even lottery tickets. Details: ncseafoodfestival.org.

COASTAL CAROLINA FAIR. The Craven County Jaycees Fairgrounds is home to this new county fair. Family fun with midway rides, competitions and live entertainment. Details: cravencountyfairgrounds.com.

NOVEMBER

A DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS IN DOWNTOWN NEW BERN. Enjoy a Celebration of the Christmas season with luminaries throughout the business district, theme Fridays in the shops and illuminated trolley tours. Visit Santa in his house in Bear Plaza, listen to the NC Symphony and other holiday concerts and even get a tree from the Christmas Tree Ship. Details: newbernchamber.com.

BHA COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING FEAST. Beaufort restaurants come together to create the ultimate Thanksgiving feast for this Beaufort Historical Association fundraising. Eat on site, or take your dinner to go. Details: 252728-5225.

More than 90 exhibitors display and sell decoys and waterfowl artifacts at Harkers Island Elementary School in Harkers Island. The decoy competition consists of both decorative and nondecorative (floating) contemporary carvings. Details: 252-838-8818, decoyguild.com.

WATERFOWL WEEKEND. The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center opens its doors the first weekend in December with a full slate of traditional, down-home fun.

Expect decoy carvers with their wares, educational exhibits, competitions, arts and crafts and plenty of food. Details: 252-728-1500.

FESTIVAL OF TREES. Hospice of Carteret County’s annual Festival of Trees is held at the Crystal Coast Civic Center in Morehead City. Enjoy live entertainment while browsing and take a moment to visit with Santa during his busy season. Details: 252-808-6085.

HOLIDAY FLOTILLA. Each Christmas, the residents along the Crystal Coast like to celebrate the season with their own personal style. Boats decked out in Christmas finery cruise past the Morehead City and Beaufort waterfronts at sunset.

Details: 252-728-1638.

COASTAL CAROLINA CHRISTMAS WALK. Tour the buildings of the Beaufort Historic Site adorned in colonial holiday finery. Enjoy period music and learning how residents of Beaufort celebrated the holidays. Free. Details: beauforthistoricsite.org.

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ADVERTISER INDEX S

ettle in, start shopping and get ACQUAINTED with your new home on the Carolina coast with these local businesses.

ACCOMMODATIONS

HOME SERVICES

Wayfarers Cove...........................................................................................................................7

Bayan Construction ...................................................................................................................21 BMIL Technologies .......................................................................................................................9 Coastal Dredging.......................................................................................................................21 Coastal Renovations ..................................................................................................................21 Duocraft Cabinets......................................................................................................................11 Liftavator ..................................................................................................................................15 Seegars Fence Co. .....................................................................................................................40 Yardworks, Inc. Landscaping and Lawn Care ..............................................................................31

AIRPORTS Albert J. Ellis Regional Airport....................................................................................................21 Coastal Carolina Regional Airport ..............................................................................................19

DINING Alex & Brett ..............................................................................................................................17 Beach Bumz..............................................................................................................................17 Beaufort Grocery Co..................................................................................................................41 Clawson’s ..................................................................................................................................41 Ribeye’s ....................................................................................................................................41 Ruddy Ducks .............................................................................................................................17 Sammy’s Icehouse.....................................................................................................................17

DOCTORS/DENTISTS Crystal Coast Family Practice .....................................................................................................31

FINANCIAL & INSURANCE LPL Financial ...............................................................................................................................7 MetLife .....................................................................................................................................24 Nationwide Insurance................................................................................................................15 Wells Fargo ...............................................................................................................................47

FISHING & BOATING Carolina Princess .......................................................................................................................17

HOME DÉCOR/DESIGN/FURNISHINGS Artistic Tile ..................................................................................................................................7 Beach Furniture Outfitters .........................................................................................................40 Budget Blinds..............................................................................................................................6 D’s Interiors ..............................................................................................................................35 Dee Gee’s Gifts & Books ............................................................................................................17 Eastman’s Carpet.......................................................................................................................25 Edgewater Linen .......................................................................................................................37 Furniture Distributors ................................................................................................................16 Handcrafted Homes ..................................................................................................................40 Island Furniture.........................................................................................................................37 McQueen’s Interiors.....................................................................................................................8 Pat Patteson Builders ................................................................................................................33 Periwinkles ...............................................................................................................................41 Shore Decor ................................................................................................................................5 Southern Glass & Mirror ............................................................................................................15 William’s Floor Covering ..............................................................................................................2 Window Wall and Interior Décor ................................................................................................29

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UTILITIES Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative ..........................................................................................29

REAL ESTATE A Place at the Beach Realty .......................................................................................................23 Al Williams ................................................................................................................................47 Beaufort Realty.........................................................................................................................41 Bluewater Real Estate...................................................................................................Back Cover Cannon & Gruber Realtors...........................................................................................................7 Emerald Isle Realty .....................................................................................................................2 Met Life/Grand Villas ................................................................................................................10 Realty World First Coast: Steve Brown..........................................................................................3 Shorewood Real Estate ................................................................................................................3 Snug Harbor .............................................................................................................................35 Sun Surf Realty .........................................................................................................................24 Zander Guy...............................................................................................................................23

SHOPPING & SERVICES Beach Shop and Grill .................................................................................................................23 Beachcombers ...........................................................................................................................37 Bert’s Surf Shop ........................................................................................................................23 Boathouse, The .........................................................................................................................19 Bumble Bee Market ..................................................................................................................23 Four C’s.....................................................................................................................................19 Harbor Specialties .....................................................................................................................41 ICW ........................................................................................................................................8 Mark Ray Studio .......................................................................................................................17 Port City Motors ........................................................................................................................17 Quarter Moon ...........................................................................................................................23 Sandi’s Beachwear ....................................................................................................................37 Stamper’s Jewelers....................................................................................................................41 Tassel’s Shoes and Accessories......................................................................................................8 Twice as Nice .............................................................................................................................19 Weaver’s Web ...........................................................................................................................19

From Sound to Sea and Beyond…..Actively Serving Carteret County’s Real Estate Needs!

252-726-8800 / 800-849-1888 Visit Us on the Web: www.alwilliamsproperties.com 300 Atlantic Beach Causeway Atlantic Beach, NC 28512

Al Williams Properties has been a “Coastal Tradition” for more than 20 years. Our REALTORS offer a strong knowledge base of the local coast and surrounding mainland areas.

Financing to make you feel at home The personal and financial rewards of owning a home are many. And you want to be sure your financing works best for your home and your life, for today and tomorrow.

So, whether you’re buying your first home, a second home or refinancing your current one, a Wells Fargo Home Mortgage consultant will listen to your goals and help you choose the financing that’s right for you.

Count on one of the nation’s leading retail mortgage lenders for the exclusive programs and personalized service you need to meet your goals. We’re ready to help you enjoy a lifetime of homeownership.

Contact your Wells Fargo Home Mortgage consultant for details.

Surf City 910-328-1999

Jacksonville 910-353-8800

Emerald Isle 252-354-8195

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