August 28, 2020 - COAST

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2 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

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6

ON THE TOWN Check out these upcoming live shows by local singer-guitarist Rory Kelleher and DJ Randy Gill.

8 BEYOND THE MUSIC Skip Hancock opens up about how the pandemic has affected his live music career.

table of contents

12 COASTAL CULTURE Meet painter Jill Block, a native of Kill Devil Hills and a self-taught abstract expressionist.

COURTESY OF NAGS HEAD FIRE AND RESCUE

18

EATING IN Three okra recipes from a local produce market to tempt even the biggest skeptic.

22 COVER STORY Stunning shots by OBX photographer Sean Paul Ballentine offer a reminder that respite is never far away.

32

Try these five kid-friendly alternatives to a day at the beach, including a scavenger hunt and stargazing.

A fire damaged a historic cottage in Nags Head Friday.

Historic Nags Head cottage damaged by fire

By Jeff Hampton

Staff writer

A fire Aug. 14 damaged one of the historic, unpainted cottages in Nags Head that were built before the Outer Banks tourist boom.

None of the occupants were injured, according to a release from the Town of Nags Head. The extent of the damage was not immediately available.

The house is part of an historic district of older

ON THE COVER This week’s Coast cover features a shot by local photographer Sean Paul Ballentine. It was taken in May just north of Jennette’s

cottages built in the late19th and early 20th century. The district was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

The row of homes located near Jockey’s Ridge on Virginia Dare Trail are distinguished by wood shingles, wrap around porches and shutters hinged at the top.

Jeff Hampton, 252-491-5272, jeff.hampton @pilotonline.com

Pier in Nags Head. He says a long exposure created the smooth effect of the ocean and the little waves that day.

See more of Ballentine’s summer behind the camera lens on page 22.

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K A Y AK

BANKS SEPT 14-20 • OUTER BEAUFORT FISHING IS OPEN TO ALL NC COASTAL WATERS COURTESY OF AMY JO

Amy Jo posted a lovely sunrise photo to the Outer Banks of North Carolina Facebook page taken in June in Nags Head. See page 36

ABOUT COAST For more than 30 years, COAST has been the go-to source for information about the people, places, and things that make the Outer Banks one of the top destinations on the East Coast.

The publication shines a spotlight on locals who are making their mark, and it provides current information about the latest happenings that should not be missed — from music and art, to food, festivals, fishing, and more.

COAST. All local. All the time.

EDITOR Victoria Bourne, victoria.bourne@ pilotonline.com, 757-222-5563 LOCAL EDITOR Dave Fairbank

davefairbank100@ gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carrie Brothers, Dave Fairbank, Jeff Hampton, John Harper, Maggie Miles, Mary Ellen Riddle, Megan Scott, Scott Sechman

or an idea for a story? If so, we’d like to know. Contact victoria.bourne@ pilotonline.com.

ADVERTISE WITH US Find out how you can engage more readers with an integrated marketing program.

John "Ski" Miller, media sales manager, ski.miller@virginia media.com; Elizabeth Cato, senior account executive, elizabeth.catoe@ virginiamedia.com

THINGS TO KNOW During the summer season (May-August), when Coast is a weekly publication, information must be submitted at least 10 days in advance of an event.

During the shoulder season (September-October), when Coast is a monthly publication — with the exception of November-December and January-February, when two months are combined — information must be submitted at least 14 days in advance of an event.

HOW TO GET YOUR NEWS OR EVENT IN COAST Do you have an event coming up that’s open to the public,

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6 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

ON THE TOWN

FACEBOOK PHOTO

COURTESY OF RANDY GILL

Outer Banks musician Rory Kelleher has been playing six or seven nights a week this summer. “I feel fortunate,” says Kelleher. “I know a lot of people are struggling.”

Randy Gill is a longtime local club/mobile DJ and former radio personality and program director. His Saturday gig will be his first since the pandemic started.

John Harper

12, Hatteras Village; 6 p.m.

Monday, Inn on Pamlico Sound, 49684 N.C. 12, Buxton; 7 p.m. Tuesday, Rodanthe Pier, 24251 Atlantic Drive, Rodanthe; 8 p.m.

Thursday, Turner’s High Moon Bar and Grill, 40618 N.C. 12, Avon ■ Cost: No cover charge

Live music on Hatteras Island, in Manteo on tap Correspondent

Multiple Dates Rory “Live” Kelleher The singer-guitarist has one thing in mind when picking songs to play: “I try to be diverse,” says Kelleher, 38, who uses the moniker “Rory Live.”

He specializes in authentic remakes of tunes ranging from “Fly Me to the Moon” (Frank Sinatra) to “Do It Again” (Steely Dan) to “Home” (Phillip Phillips).

“I try to entertain,” says Kelleher. “I want to give (the audience) something to hold on to.”

Other artists on his 250song play list, which Kelleher describes as “Top 40 hits from the last 60 years,” include Led Zeppelin, John Prine, Tom Petty, Leonard Cohen, Merle Haggard, Pearl Jam, The Beatles,

Jackson Browne, Tom Waits, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Dawes, Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams and Mumford & Sons.

The approach seems to be working for the musician who, despite the disruption of live entertainment caused by concerns and restrictions related to COVID-19, has been playing six or seven nights a week this summer.

“I feel fortunate,” says Kelleher. “I know a lot of people are struggling.”

Born and raised in Altoona, Pennsylvania, he’s been a fixture on the Outer Banks music scene for a decade, performing almost exclusively on Hatteras Island.

All of this year’s gigs have been on the long, narrow strip of land south of Nags Head. And they’re regular weekly shows.

A fine finger-picking-

style guitarist (a Takamine Acoustic Santa Fe model is his preferred instrument), Kelleher also has a gift for getting in touch with his inner-whoever-the-artist-is.

“I actually try to do my impression of the singer,” he explains.

On a recent video on his Facebook page, the modern-day troubadour does just that. He captures the comforting lilt of Bob Marley’s voice on “Is This Love,” the pleasant twanginess of Craig Fuller’s tone on Pure Prairie League’s “Amie” and the rumbling, gruffness of Johnny Cash’s voice on “ I Walk the Line.”

“I try to be true to the original,” Kelleher reiterates.

■ When and where: 6 p.m.

Friday and Sunday, Breakwater Restaurant, 57878 N.C. 12, Hatteras Village; 6 p.m. Saturday, Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill, 58646 N.C.

Saturday, Aug. 29

DJ Randy Gill Randy Gill is getting back to where he once belonged.

The longtime, local club/ mobile DJ and former radio personality and program director will be laying down the jams at Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop on the Manteo waterfront.

It’s his first gig since the pandemic started.

“I just wanted to do something that reminds us it’s summer,” says Gill, 58, who grew up in Petersburg, Virginia.

To that end, Gill will be

focusing on Carolina Beach Music and rhythm-andblues oldies, with some rock, country and reggae tunes mixed in.

“There will probably be some Bob Marley and Jimmy Buffett,” he says.

“Just fun, upbeat stuff.”

Expect to hear such shag classics as “I Love Beach Music,” “Carolina Girls” and “Stand by Me.” Gill also said he’ll be spinning modern Beach Music hits such as “Baby, Come Back to Me” by Mr. X, “I Ain’t Leaving Mississippi” by Jaye Hammer and “Got to Be You” by Doctor Victor.

Also on the play list are the Temptations, Sam and Dave, the Four Tops, Boz Scaggs, Wilson Pickett, the Drifters, Maurice Williams, Jerry Butler and the Supremes.

“It’s hard to plan ahead,” he says. “We’ll just see what

makes (the audience) tap their toes.”

■ When: 6 p.m.

■ Cost: No cover ■ Where: Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop, 305 Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo ■ Info: 252-473-3333, poorrichardsmanteo.com John Harper has been covering the local entertainment scene for The Coast and Virginian-Pilot since 1994. He’s also written hundreds of stories on subjects ranging from history to sports to food.

Harper is a longtime radio broadcaster and program director on the Outer Banks and can be heard from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the local Triple A outlet WVOD-99.1-The Sound. He’s the host of the popular Saturday morning flashback feature “10 at 10” and is also an award-winning wedding D.J.

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BEYOND THE MUSIC

Skip Hancock: Keys to nearly everything

By Scott Sechman Correspondent

Generally, I tend to focus my attention on musicians who live on our lovely sandbar. Primarily on the northern-most reaches of the island, as that’s where I live.

On occasion I will turn my gaze southward and write about some of the able musicians that entertain the visitors and residents on Hatteras Island.

This week, I look north to the bustling metropolis of Coinjock. There I find Skip Hancock, pianist extraordinaire, singer, bandleader, recording artist, sideman and educator at the Naval School of Music.

Many of us on the Banks know him as that guy who plays keyboards with guitarist Joe Mapp. That makes Hancock a “Coordinate.” Mapp’s ensemble is Joe Mapp and the Coordinates, and in his world, there are only a few such beings.

Hancock’s fellow Coordinates are drummer and percussionist Dan Martier and bassist Ed Tupper.

Damn good company he keeps.

Hancock has been gigging in the Tidewater region for well over 25 years. Before the coronavirus pandemic popped up and put the big damper on our once busy schedules, you’d find him nearly weekly at Art’s Place in Kitty Hawk, providing chordal backing and blazing, yet tasteful, solos on keyboards.

I had a chance to converse with the erudite Mr. Hancock.

What has been the hardest part of dealing with the pandemic?

The unknowns. When will it be safe, when will I be able to work again, and very bothersome, dealing with people out in public that don’t socially distance or wear masks, either when I go out to buy groceries or play gigs (few though they are).

What have you been doing during the shutdown?

Lots of practice and composing. Lots of work on my property that I haven’t had time for before the pandemic.

What have you missed the most?

Playing jazz with fine players

COURTESY OF SKIP HANCOCK

Skip Hancock spoke about the struggle working musicians are facing amid the pandemic. “I want to work, but right now only a very few gigs are available at all.”

like Joe Mapp, Dan Martier and Ed Tupper on the Outer Banks; or with my bandmates in Virginia.

What concerns you going ahead?

Besides getting through it safely, the lack of venues to play after it is safe to do so. Many are such small businesses that they may go under. I played many senior residences in Virginia, (30% of my income) and they won’t be back anytime soon.

One of them was a Sunday brunch gig I had for 11 years until the pandemic shut it down. Of course, since there are so few gigs right now, my income has dropped to zero in many weeks.

Since Congress, as of this moment has allowed the PUA (Pandemic Unemployment Assistance) to lapse, the only money coming in is NC PEA (Pandemic Emergency Assistance), which is the only state benefit for self-employed people, which is $132 a week. Try

living on that!

The real conundrum, assuming that Congress reauthorizes the PUA, is that in North Carolina, if you’re self-employed and getting PUA, if you earn more than $156 in a week, the PUA disappears entirely!

The benefit is not prorated!

From a rational viewpoint, does this make sense?

Since gigs are only coming back slowly, if I play two gigs in one week for say, $250 total, that’s all I have for the entire week. There’s no provision at all for the way work is going to come back. Likely, part time and then, slowly getting back to full time. Or so we all hope. Last year I worked 249 gigs (about five gigs per week) and I made a decent living. Two gigs a week doesn’t pay my bills. So, do I play two gigs a week and starve, or not seek out work and take the PUA until it runs out?

(Author’s note: It ran out July 31).

I’ve been a full-time musician

for over 30 years. I’ve spent my life honing my craft and making connections with other musicians and venues. I want to work, but right now only a very few gigs are available at all. For all the honking about “getting back to work” in Congress, no one seems to think of compromises for the self-employed that can’t go back to work full time right now.

Is there any music that has helped you get through this?

I have very eclectic tastes for a jazz musician. When I want to really listen to music, classical seems to hold up better overall after repeated plays. Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky, Holst, Chopin, etc.

What makes you smile or laugh?

Watching behavior in the wildlife in my yard, my cats and my wife.

Who or what keeps you centered?

Nature. No matter what system of belief you may have, it is

undeniable proof of that which is larger than self. The closer you look, the more complexity and beauty you see.

What has encouraged you during the pandemic?

The helping hands of those running food banks and free kitchens. I have to admire their dedication and generosity in this time. The heroic work being done in hospitals around the country is more than admirable. Also, the raising of consciousness about racial issues. As a nation we’re taking a long, hard look at issues that have been swept under the rug for far too long. I hope positive change for everyone results in a more balanced future.

What has discouraged you during the pandemic?

Lack of a coherent national response. In the beginning President Trump called it a war, but it seems to be a war in which each state has to fight individually. It’s as if Pearl Harbor happened and each state sent their National Guard to fight separately.

How will you keep yourself safe when work resumes?

I have to watch out for myself of course, but bars and restaurants have to enforce mandates for distancing and mask wearing. People who think that the virus is a myth, the Earth is flat and the moon is made of green cheese have to start obeying the rules, regardless of their beliefs, or we’ll never be out of it until everyone has survived it or died from it.

Are there any new insights you’ve gained or new activities that you’ve engaged in that you’d like to maintain going forward?

I’m more aware of the racial issues than before. Things I didn’t think about because they weren’t in my face every day.

Also, new activities and trying to get by on less.

Transplanted to the Outer Banks from the wilds of the L.A. area, singer-songwriter Scott Sechman has shared stages with Bill Medley, Tom Rush, Al Wilson and the Grass Roots during his ongoing music career.

He has contributed to Mojo and various online outlets. His column, Beyond the Music, appears Fridays in Coast.

“Ember in the Surf” by Art Kramer.

Outer Banks beach rules for your pets Many people vacation with their pets, and the Outer Banks offers pet-friendly restaurants, dog parks and pet-friendly beaches, provided some rules are followed.

Each town on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore has its own restriction pertaining to pets.

All municipalities have ordinances to clean up after your pet, and that the State of North Carolina requires rabies tags to be worn at all times.

Also, remember to bring plenty of fresh water for your pet.

Here’s a guide:

and 6 p.m. from the Friday before Memorial Day until the day after Labor Day. At all other times, the leash may be extended, but must be retractable to 12 feet.

Well-trained dogs may be unleashed under close supervision of owner, not to exceed 30 feet in distance between owner and dog. (252) 261-3552

Kill Devil Hills

Leashes are required, but there is no length requirement.

Leash law requires leash not to ex c e e d 10 feet in length. From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day from May 15 through Sept. 15 each year, no dogs shall be allowed on town b e a c h e s , ex c e p t t h o s e a i d i n g a handicap person. (252) 449-5300

Duck

Nags Head

Currituck County

Leash law requires leash not to exceed 10 feet in length. Pets are allowed to play unleashed on the beach under close supervision of owner. Year round pet-friendly beaches. (252) 255-1234

Southern Shores

Leash law requires leash not to exceed 10 feet in length. From May 15 to September 15 of each year, animals are prohibited on town beaches. Leash laws enforced remainder of year. (252) 261-2394

Kitty Hawk

Leash law requires leash not to exceed 6 feet in length between 10 a.m.

Leash law requires leash not to exceed 10 feet in length.

Leashed pets allowed on towns beaches year round. (252) 441-5508

Manteo

Leash law requires leash not to exceed 6 feet in length.

Leashed pets are allowed on the waterfront year round. (252) 473-2133

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Leash law at National Parks requires leashes not to exceed 6 feet in length.

(252) 473-2111

Old World Glass Byers’ Choice Carolers Possible Dream Santas Ginger Cottages

Christopher Radko Snowbabies Jim Shore Fontanini

Karen Didion Originals Hollywood Nutcrackers Disney Ornaments LED Lights

• Remember your visit to the Outer Banks with a personalized ornament • Browse among our Thousands of Ornaments Table Top - Home Decor • Jewelry - Engraved Gifts Halloween Haunted House On the way to the NC Aquarium, Festival Park & Lost Colony.

Hwy 64 in Manteo on Roanoke Island

252.473.2838 • OuterBanksChristmas.com OPEN DAILY AT 9:30 A.M.

THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

OUTER BANKS ORIGINAL CHRISTMAS SHOP...SINCE 1967

9

FYI

10 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

COAST LIVE MUSIC CALENDAR | AUG. 28-SEPT. 2

CONTRIBUTED

Randy Burton will play the Beer Garden in Corolla on Aug. 28.

MANTEO/ WANCHESE Dare County Arts Council (Courthouse Sessions): Aug. 28 – Surf and Sound Chamber Music Quartet (Live stream on DCAC Facebook page) OBX Marina Tiki Bar (Wanchese):

CONTRIBUTED

CONTRIBUTED

Graham Outten has four shows, including Cravings Tap Shack on Aug. 29 and Outer Banks Brewing Station on Aug. 30.

Kim Kalman plays Saltbox Café on Aug. 29, Aug. 31 and Sept. 3 and Froggy Dog on Aug. 28, Aug. 30 and Sept. 3.

Aug. 28 – Ty Fleming

KILL DEVIL HILLS

Aug. 30 – Graham Outten

KITTY HAWK

DUCK

Poor Richard’s: Aug. 29 – DJ Randy Gill

Jack Brown’s: Aug. 28 – Mercy Creek; Aug. 29 – Don Zientara; Aug. 30 – Derek Smith; Aug. 31 – Stephen Brown Band; Sept. 1 – Jonny Waters; Sept. 2 – The Ramble; Sept. 3 – Graham Outten

Rooster’s: Sept. 2 – Phil Watson

Longboards: Aug. 28 – TBA; Aug. 29 – TBA

Aqua: Aug. 28 – Monte Hooker; Aug. 29 – Devin Frazier; Aug. 30-31 – Randy Burton; Sept. 1 – Monte Hooker; Sept. 2 – Graham Outten; Sept. 3 – Bobby Soto

NAGS HEAD Tale of the Whale: Aug. 28 – Jessica Diaz; Sept. 2-3 – Joey Wood

Saltbox Café: Aug. 29, Aug. 31, Sept. 3 – Kim Kalman Stonefish Beach Bar (Avalon Pier): Aug. 28 – TBA; Aug. 29 – TBA

Rundown Café: Aug. 28 – SOULone; Aug. 29 – Joe Mapp; Aug. 30 – Bryan Campbell; Sept.

3 – Kamea Blake

Outer Banks Brewing Station:

See Page 11

15 + Varieties of New York Bagles • Homemeade Soups and Lunch Specialties Cakes, Cupcakes, Cookies, Pastries & More • Cozy Coffee Shop ALL MADE FRESH DAILY

Locally Sourced Seafood Steamer Dinners Salads, Sides, and Dips Steamed Shrimp & Crabs (252) 441-8808 | 101 Grey Eagle St. | Nags Head whaleboneseafood.com

CALL (252) 986-5109 40126 NC HWY 12, AVON HOURS: SUMMER 6AM - 4PM OFF SEASON 6:30AM

breakfa s special t 7 days a week

Wednesday - Saturday 6 pm - 10 pm!

Family Friendly!

August

2020 Events and Specials!

RESTAURANT & BAR

KILL DEVIL HILLS, NC

Pub Menu Specials Daily 4:00 - 6:30 (Dine In Bar Only)! 25¢ Shrimp • 99¢ Ribs • 79¢ Wings Sunday

Monday

$2 Discounts MUG

1/2 PRICE BLOODY MARY’S AND MIMOSAS

Look for Breakfast

Great Drink

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Specials All Day!

Tuesday

and

in the Visitors Guide and Restaurant Guide

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Locals Sign up for Birthday Club

Thursday

Visit our Gift Shop!

We also sell

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APPETIZER

10oz

Prime Rib

All late nite entertainment is canceled until we are allowed to fully open.

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Restrictions: $8.95 ★ The Restaurant and Bar are open from LOBSTER 7 am - 10 pm daily.

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Macaroni and lobster smothered in a 3 cheese pancetta sauce topped w/sliced tomatoes and seasoned bread crumbs served with 2 lobster claws

Shrimp & Grits

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Friday

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441-6530 • www.jollyrogerobx.com • MP 6 3/4 Beach Road, KDH

★ Please remember when you are sitting at the bar, food must be ordered. ★ For the time being, we are a restaurant and not a bar. ★ You are required to wear face masks upon entering and while waiting to be seated. You are not required to wear them while you are seated at a table. ★ Absolutely no vaping is allowed in the restaurant. ★ We apologize for any inconvenience and hope we will be back to normal operations soon.

Dinner Specials Start at 4 pm

Locals! - Nightly 20% OFF Dinner w/ Local ID

Locals! - Mon-Fri 20% OFF Lunch w/ Local ID

CONTRIBUTED

CONTRIBUTED

Phil Watson will play Morris Farm Market (Barco) on Aug. 30 and Rooster’s on Sept. 2.

Natalie Wolfe will play the Village Table and Tavern in Duck on Sept. 2.

Continued from 10

Café Pamlico: Aug. 31 – Rory Kelleher; Sept. 1 – Brian Surratt; Sept 2 – TBA; Sept. 3 – Stephen Vang

Cravings Tap Shack: Aug. 28 – The Break; Aug. 29 – Graham Outten; Sept. 2 – Craig Honeycutt and Folkjet; Sept. 3 – Derek Smith and the New Day NC Coast: Aug. 28 – The Wilder Bros.; Aug. 31 – Bryan Campbell; Sept. 1 – Greg Shelton; Sept. 2 – The Wilder Bros.

Red Sky Café: Aug. 28 – Greg Shelton; Sept. 1 – Jeremy Russell; Sept. 2 – Live jazz TBA; Sept. 3 – Bryan Campbell

Roadside Bar and Grill: Aug. 28 – Yacht Dogs; Aug. 29 – Burton Murray Band; Sept. 2 – Stephen Brown Band; Sept. 3 – Blue Dog (Ruth Wyand and Dan Martier)

Bernie’s Brother: Aug. 28 – Bryan Campbell

Village Table and Tavern: Aug. 28 – Phil Delpierre; Aug. 29 – Birddog; Sept. 1 – Marc Murray; Sept. 2 – Natalie Wolfe; Sept. 3 – Mercy Creek

AVON

COROLLA Beer Garden: Aug. 28 – Randy Burton

HATTERAS ISLAND Froggy Dog: Aug. 28, Aug. 30, Sept. 3 – Kim Kalman

RODANTHE/WAVES/SALVO Neptune’s Kitchen and Dive Bar: Aug. 28 – TBA; Aug. 29 – TBA; Aug. 31 – TBA

Turner’s High Moon: Aug. 28 – TBA; Aug. 29 – TBA; Aug. 30 – TBA; Sept. 3 – Open mic w/ Rory Kelleher

Rodanthe Pier: Sept. 1 – Rory Kelleher; Sept. 3 – Jamie and Mark

BUXTON

Breakwater: Aug. 28 – Rory

HATTERAS VILLAGE

Kelleher; Aug. 30 – Jam session w/ Rory Kelleher; Sept. 2 – Brian Surratt Hatteras Sol Deli and Café: Aug. 28 – Brian Surratt; Aug. 29 – Rory Kelleher Quarterdeck (Frisco): Aug. 30 – Mary Joy McDaniel; Sept. 3 – TBA The Wreck Tiki Bar: Sept. 3 – TBA OCRACOKE Coyote Music Den: Sept. 1 – Livestream in-house concert w/ Marcy Brenner, Lou Castro,

available on Facebook, coyotemusic.net; Sept. 2 – Livestream in-house concert w/ Marcy Brenner, Lou Castro and Martin Garrish on Martin Garrish and Friends Facebook page, coyotemusic.net MAINLAND BJ’s Carolina Café (Jarvisburg): Sept. 2 – TBA Morris Farm Market (Barco): Aug. 30 – Phil Watson Sanctuary Vineyards (Jarvisburg): Aug. 29 – TBA; Sept. 3 – TBA

THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

Outside Dining and Karaoke!

Look what Jolly’s doing this season!

11

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12 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

COASTAL CULTURE

Painter creates art for herself

Abstract expressionist Jill Block moved from photography after success of big project

By Mary Ellen Riddle Correspondent

It has been said that a person’s instincts are the soul speaking, and that working from the soul is how one creates true art. Combine the two ideas, and you gain a sense of how Jill Block creates her abstract paintings. She paints in the moment where she can intuitively act and react. The results reveal original work that is open for interpretation.

Tall and lithe, with long blonde hair and swaying turquoise earrings, Block is a picture of beauty.

Her joy for painting radiates across her face. She presents the same grace and artistry found in her work. The Kill Devil Hills

Jill Block, Kill Devil Hills artist What: Abstract expressionism paintings Contact: www.jillblock.net, @jillblockart on Instagram.

native has a strong sense of self and, as she says, paints for herself.

Block speaks in an uncomplicated way when talking about her art.

“It’s just something that comes out of you through your paint brush,” the 36-year-old woman said.

The work reveals skill on many levels. The self-taught artist understands how to create acrylic paintings that show mature depth, form, contrast, composition and color. These components come together to form intriguing compositions. There is a freshness to each work that she completes in one sitting, a four- to six-hour time frame.

See CULTURE/Page 13

PHOTOS COURTESY JEREMY BLOCK

"Blushes in Green.”

JEREMY BLOCK

Jill Block, a self-taught artist, understands how to create acrylic paintings that show mature depth, form, contrast, composition and color, Mary Ellen Riddle writes.

Block refers to herself as an abstract expressionist.

She enjoys visiting museums and galleries in New York, Washington, D.C., and Virginia and is intrigued by abstract art. ‘What were the artists thinking when they created it,’ she asks herself.

While in the galleries, she studies the techniques the artists used, including their brushstrokes. She especially appreciates the work of Willem de Kooning and Mark Rothko, both midcentury abstract expressionists, and Pablo Picasso who, with Georges Braque, founded cubism in the early 1900s.

The Abstract Expressionism movement developed in the 1940s in New York and focused on expressing reality in a nonrepresentational way by employing color, shapes, and line and energetically merging shapes and forms and hues that end up as a

painting of pure emotion and thought. While Block does not say she is expressing reality as in abstracting from something real, she fits into the category.

On process, Block starts by putting a burnt sienna wash over a large canvas and waits for it to dry. Of her palette, she chooses colors that call to her at the moment. Playing music while she paints puts her into the best mood and makes her more creative.

Depending on her mood, Block listens to classical music or a variety of Indie Rock. “But either way I feel music is key to my art and soul,” she said.

Without intention to create something that resembles a realistic object, Block creates shapes and strokes and pairs and blends colors on the canvas. Shapes can float in ethereal spaces or congregate closely in a tightknit form. Brush strokes can be layered on top of each other with other colors atop them that swirl See CULTURE/Page 14

THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

Continued from 12

13

CULTURE

JEREMY BLOCK

“Surviving the LAments” is an acrylic paining by Kill Devil Hills artist Jill Block.

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CULTURE Continued from 13

and mix.

“Almost like a river,” Block said.

She enjoys seeing the progression and how different hues come into being unplanned. What is important in this regard is using colors that complement one another. Adding a pop of neon pink or orange at the end lends a burst of energy to a painting. The finished work — sometimes exhibiting bold colors, other days muted tones — is open to interpretation.

“It evokes different emotions in each person, including myself,” Block said.

Occasionally, Block sees something representational in the work, such as a face, and brings it out a bit. And, she has been known to paint abstracted realism for clients when asked. But, when painting for herself, the closest she gets to pairing a specific idea to a painting is when she names her works. The name may arise at once upon completion. Or, Block ponders what she sees in the finished work and a title comes to mind.

“Other times, if I’m listening to an amazing album, my paintings will inherit the name of the song or a beautiful phrase in that song,” she said. Titles include “Pastel Crown,” “Blushes in Green” and “Eye See.” This music and art lover has had a passion for creating since she was a child.

Her art classes in school were her favorites. Having a mother and father who could draw also made an impression on her. She credits them for her artistic side. An early digital camera her father bought when she was 14 introduced her to photography.

As someone who would change her outfits10 times a day, Block initially was drawn to fashion photography. “I would photograph jewelry, (and) my girlfriends dressed up like they were going to be in Vogue,” Block said. She turned her photography into a side job and photographed friends’

JEREMY BLOCK

weddings and did portrait photography.

The tide changed in 2013.

Block wanted a big piece of art to go above her couch and decided to paint it herself. She was happy with the work, and it inspired her to keep painting. In 2019, she entered her first show, the Duck and Beyond annual art show in Duck

and won Best in Show. That same year she had her first solo art exhibit at the boutique Modern Beach House.

“I showcased seven pieces, and in the first hour three of my paintings had sold!” Block said.

This year, she entered a painting in the Frank Stick Memorial Art Show that the Dare County Arts

Council hosts each winter.

She won an Excellence Award, as well as the People’s Choice Award.

Block sells from her website and gains her biggest exposure from Instagram.

She does commissions and works with interior designers to find just the right painting for a customer.

Painting intuitively has

worked well for Block. “I think painting is very therapeutic,” she said. “Your mind isn’t thinking about everyday stuff.” Her abstract can free the viewer’s mind, as well as leave the door open for them to interpret their own experience. This welcoming gesture begs the question: What does Block see in her

art?

“I see a great imagination.”

Mary Ellen Riddle has been writing the Coast’s art column for more than 27 years and brings to her work a BFA in painting from East Carolina University and a profound passion for the role the arts play in society.

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MEET THE BREWER

Outer Banks Brewing Station’s ‘quasi-brewer’

Co-owner wanted to make a collaborative space

By Carrie Brothers Correspondent

Eric Reece, along with Aubrey Davis and Tina Mackinzie, opened Outer Banks Brewing Station in 2001 with a goal to provide quality beer and food in a comfortable, community-driven setting. Their shared goal to give back to the environment in the process resulted in the installation of a wind turbine that powers the brewpub and earned them the title of first wind-powered brewery in the United States.

Co-owner Reece brought his experience brewing commercially to the operation. We wanted to learn a little more about him and he obliged.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m kind of the head janitor and responsible for the whole building. I brew together with brewmaster David Virgil, so I’m technically a quasi-brewer. I brewed with our first brewmaster, Scott Meyer, back in California in the mid-1990s at Bison Brewing Company. I was his assistant brewer.

When we came out here, the idea was that I was going to brew with him for a few years and then take over, but I got caught up in the front as the place became bigger and spread into music. It took me years to get back. I’ve always been working with the guys in some way or capacity, but the past five years I moved back into it. It’s a collaborative effort.

Scott Meyer brewed with us here for our first 12 or 13 years.

Since then we’ve had Bart Kramlik and Dave Virgle. I brewed with Bart and Dave at the Weeping Radish in the late 1990s. Dave has been with us four years.

How does Outer Banks Brewing Station approach its beer program?

We used to be super experimental, but the tourist population aren’t super experimental so what we’ve done is we’ve narrowed it back to styles that people might not have particularly heard of but won’t be crazy to their palates.

On tap all the time we have our

Olsch and our Lemongrass Wheat. We’ll have some kind of hoppy pale, whether it be an IPA or a hoppy pale ale. We have some kind of midrange, an amber or brown, and a dark, some kind of porter style. We try to keep those general categories and then fill it in with everything else.

I wanted to get together with people who really loved what they do and give them the freedom to allow them to do what they really want to do. It’s a collaborative effort. ... Our first sign out on the road we hand painted and it said, “Integrity is not a fad.”

What about being a brewpub rather than a brewery sets you apart?

Brewpubs weren’t made to be production breweries.

A brewpub’s obligation, in my eyes, is not to be the experimenter, it’s to move with the needle of the times. Whatever the local ingredients and their availability are, use those. When stuff comes up, use that. We’re at the bottom of the buying power scale. You sell most of your product onsite, so your profit margin is a bit bigger if you’re not losing it in the restaurant, so take that money and put it into the raw ingredients. Our silo outside is full of Weyermann Pilsner Malt; it’s an excellent top-quality malt out of Bamberg, Germany.

Does Outer Banks Brewing Station have any exciting projects in the works right now?

We just finished a pear hard seltzer using cider yeast. We made a peach muscadine (flavor) and it looks like a peach, it smells really good, and it has flavor! We’ll carbonate that and put it out and I think that’ll be really fun.

Dave’s got this little sour program that Scott originally started.

We get barrels from Sanctuary Vineyards or Kill Devil Rum (Outer Banks Distilling) and we age the beers all for a year or more and then release them in little 5-gallon kegs and do 10-ounce pours. They’re all aged and have these complex flavors. That’s what’s interesting and fun, how to

COURTESY OF OUTER BANKS BREWING STATION

Eric Reece, left, with brewer Dave Virgil. Reece opened Outer Banks Brewing Station in 2001 with Aubrey Davis and Tina Mackinzie (not pictured), with a goal to make quality beer in a community-driven setting.

do those interesting things and how to do them here.

What do you think has given Outer Banks Brewing Station its staying power?

I credit it to being so diverse.

People come here for totally different reasons. ... We’re a nightclub, we’re a family restaurant, we try to be environmentally proactive, we have a huge backyard — there’s a lot of stuff going on here.

Finally, the hardest question there is for a true beer lover: Do you have a favorite beer?

I love all alcohols and I say that because I am a 100% mood and weather drinker. I’m not constrained by admitting I love alcohol. I don’t drink a lot and I only pick the things I really enjoy. This

is a long-winded way to say it’s got to match the mood and the weather. I drink wine and my liquor cabinet is full of esoteric stuff because I love creating that taste.

If it’s nice and cool, a Samuel Smith’s Organic Chocolate Stout on certain nights and certain moods. If it’s hot out, a Hoegaarden, and if it’s really hot an Aventinus. The list is endless! Surf Wax IPA by Burial Beer — on a perfect day that is the ultimate beer. To quote somebody else: “The beer in front of me right now.”

Beer is the common man’s drink, and in these divisive times, what better way to start a conversation than beer?

Outer Banks Brewing Station Where: 600 S. Croatan Hwy., Kill Devil Hills Hours: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Wednesday-Monday More info: Limited dine-in and outdoor seating; takeout and curbside pickup available.

Contact: 252-449-2739; www.obbrewing.com; @outerbanksbrewingstation on Facebook

17

HATTERAS HOT LIST

By Carrie Brothers Correspondent

Village Conery Ice Cream & Yogurt Inside this little shop on the corner of N.C.12, visitors can find Hershey’s handdipped ice cream, frozen yogurt, Italian ice, ice cream cakes and everything in between. Family-owned and operated since 2000.

■ Where: 26204 Monitor Lane, Salvo ■ Hours: noon-10 p.m.

Tuesday-Sunday; closed Monday ■ Info: 252-987-0531; facebook.com/VillageConery

Happy Belly Ice Cream

Family-owned and operated, visitors to Happy Belly can enjoy handdipped ice cream, candy and

smoothies. For those wanting to enjoy the hot weather with their cold confections, socially-distanced seating is available on a screened-in porch. Candy, handcrafted coffee mugs and coasters, and apparel are also available for purchase.

■ Where: 57204 N.C. 12, Hatteras ■ Hours: noon-9 p.m.

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THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

Cool treats to beat the heat vors that are rotated with 24 flavors available each day.

There is also a gift shop full of shell jewelry, cast stone indoor/outdoor statues, and knick-knacks. Currently only takeout is available, but outdoor seating is provided.

■ Where: 46860 N.C. 12, Buxton ■ Hours:2-10p.m.MondaySaturday; closed Sunday ■ Info: 252-995-4059; Uncle Eddy’s Frozen Custard and 18 hole Mini Golf on Facebook

Cups and Cones

Visitors can’t miss the bright pink building on U.S. 12 in Avon. The extensive menu at this locally owned shop boasts 40 flavors of Hershey’s ice cream and a coffee menu for those who may need a little caffeine.

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COURTESY OF UNCLE EDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD AND 18 HOLE MINI GOLF

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EATING IN

Market shows three times the love to okra Recipe featuring the vegetable is in cookbook by Tarheel Too produce market

By Megan Scott

Correspondent

Okra. Whether you love it, or love to hate it, North Carolina can grow it. Okra likes the heat, which means it’s right at home here in our hot, sandy soil. And it’s ripe for the picking right about now.

Ed Goninan, who owns and operates the Tarheel Too produce stand in the Seagate North shopping center in Kill Devil Hills answered my request for something super-seasonal and local with an enthusiastic nomination for okra, along with a mention of watermelon, and some lovely-looking figs. But okra seemed like the right thing to share here. Mainly because it can be so controversial and, as Goninan says, the doubters simply don’t know what they’re missing.

Maybe okra’s inherent slippery slime turns you off.

Or maybe okra is just some unfamiliar green vegetable you think you can do without. But to listen to Goninan tell it, okra is the stuff summers are made of.

He loves it tossed with olive oil and grilled, preferably on the back porch surrounded by his sons and accompanied by a few beers, where the okra emerges charred but still maintains that fresh veggie “pop.” The cookbook Tarheel Too’s staff collectively created features a sautéed version with fragrant garlic and spicy red pepper flakes that produces tender-crisp, bright pods saturated with delicious garlicky flavor.

And in case you’re craving something crunchy, we’ll share a fried version where okra’s ooziness is absorbed by a delicious,

Okra from Tarheel Too Produce Market cooked three ways.

Grilled Okra MEGAN SCOTT PHOTOS

Tarheel Too Produce Market in the Seagate North shopping center in Kill Devil Hills.

Tarheel Too Produce Market Where: Seagate North shopping center, 3105 N. Croatan Hwy., Kill Devil Hills What: Fresh, local fruits and vegetables When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Saturday, (April-September) Contact: www.facebook.com/TarheelToo

If you’re an okra lover, you’ll delight in all three. If you’re a skeptic, surely one of these preparations can change your mind. salty cornmeal coating.

Among these three options, one is sure to please your palate and induct you into North Carolina food culture for good. After all, isn’t part of inhabiting the Outer Banks, even if just for a week or two, indulging in the local offerings? As much as shrimp hauled in from the sound should make it to your plate at least once this week, so should a batch of okra plucked from the garden.

Speaking of gardens, the COVID-19 pandemic had so

many Outer Bankers tilling, sowing and growing that come July, Goninan and his wife, Dawn, had an influx of locally-grown produce being offered up for sale or trade. Luckily, customers’ demand for fresh fruits and veggies has been strong.

Throughout quarantine, Tarheel Too offered custom produce boxes and “surprise boxes” for pickup and delivery, providing a socially-distant, communitybased source of the fresh fruits and veggies we all need.

Once restrictions were lifted, the Goninans and their crew opened with guidelines in place, providing the beach with an option for nutritious food outside of the confines and huddled masses of the grocery store. They even opened a second location in Manteo this year to better serve customers of the southern beaches.

After 24-plus years in the produce business, and a reputation for being the nicest farmer’s market guy with the best prices on the Outer Banks, Goninan’s okra proposition is best accepted. Here are three ways to try it, each one highlighting the tender, grassy-tasting pods in a different way. If you’re an okra lover, you’ll delight in all three. If you’re a skeptic, surely one of these preparations can change your mind.

Megan Scott is co-owner of The Spice & Tea Exchange in Duck. You can check out her food blog at www.servingtonight.com.

Serves 4 1 pound okra, left whole 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Preheat your grill and toss okra pods in olive oil, salt and pepper.

Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until charred in some spots – about 10 minutes total.

Season with more salt if desired.

Sauteed Okra

Serves 4 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound okra, stemmed 2 medium garlic cloves, minced ½ teaspoon hot red pepper flakes (or more to taste) Salt to taste Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it is quite hot, add okra and sauté for 3-4 minutes.

Lower the heat to medium and add garlic and hot pepper flakes. Continue to cook until okra is crisp- tender, but don’t let the garlic burn. If necessary, lower the heat a little.

When okra is ready, salt to taste, and serve immediately.

Fried Okra

Serves 4 1 pound okra, stemmed and sliced into ½-inch pieces 1 cup cornmeal 2 teaspoon salt, divided ½ teaspoon smoked paprika 1 ¼ cup vegetable oil Mix the cornmeal, 1 teaspoon salt, and paprika together in a large bowl. Add the sliced okra and toss to coat.

Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Once it starts to shimmer, add the okra in a single layer (fry it in batches if necessary). Lower the heat to medium.

Fry the okra on the first side for 4 minutes. Move and toss it around and fry for an additional 3 minutes.

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, season with remaining teaspoon of salt and serve.

Staff writer

Just for fun, Virginia and Anthony Agreste drove from their Virginia Beach home six years ago for a look at one of the oldest houses in Moyock.

They had no plans to buy it. It had been on the market for years and it was showing its age.

But they were awestruck at the detailed carving on the porch columns, the scrolled window trim, the original heart pine floors and the spacious lot next to a slow-moving creek.

A few months later, it was theirs.

“We just loved it,” Virginia said.

The 121-year-old, twostory house on Shingle Landing Road is the first to be named a landmark property in Currituck County. As such, the Agrestes qualify for a 50% cut in local property taxes.

Guided by the Currituck

County Historic Commission, the program is an incentive for owners to preserve older homes. The county Board of Commissioners gets final approval on each house.

Moyock is the fastest growing community in Currituck County. Hundreds of new homes have gone up in subdivisions along N.C. 168, around the old center of town. A large number of the people moving there work in Virginia.

The Agrestes’ house is one of a few Currituck buildings more than 100 years old that are still standing. Many of the old farmhouses are gone.

“It’s kind of like walking into a museum,” Anthony said.

The home has more than 30 windows that still have old-fashioned wavy glass. The original shutters were saved and stored, but need restoration and replacement. The couple has

JEFF HAMPTON/STAFF

Virginia and Anthony Agreste, with daughter Ava, stand on the porch of their Moyock home, built in 1899.

already replaced or improved electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems, but they aren’t done yet.

“If you’re using hot water in the kitchen, you’re

not getting hot water upstairs,” Virginia said.

Next to the lot runs Shingle Landing Creek, a slow-moving waterway that connects to Northwest River. Three centuries ago,

boats hauled shingles made at mills nearby from the cypress trees in the Great Dismal Swamp.

The home of more than 2,000 square feet was one of the nicest in the rural county when it was built in 1899 by Martin C. Poyner, a farmer, postmaster and store owner.

The Poyners were among the first families to settle in Currituck County in the early 1700s. Martin and his relatives ran a general store, a bottling company and an oil company.

Poyner’s house was well known enough that the Edenton Fisherman and Farmer printed regular accounts of its construction.

A report in February 1899 said it was “hard to finish on account of the bad weather.”

Then in March, a brief in the newspaper said, “M.C. Poyner’s home was finished last week and is now ready for occupancy. It is a

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credit to the village.”

The newspaper clippings were included in the Agrestes’ application to make the house a landmark property.

M.C. Poyner could walk from his big, new house to his store where they offered freshly churned butter and block ice from Elizabeth City. The soda fountain sold Cherry Smash and Coca Cola, according to the Currituck County Heritage book.

Poyner died seven years after the home’s completion, according to an obituary. He was 59.

The home remained in the family for four generations until the Agreste’s bought it.

“We are big believers that older houses were built better than new ones,” Anthony said.

Jeff Hampton, 252-491-5272, jeff.hampton@ pilotonline.com

THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

By Jeff Hampton

19

Moyock home is first Currituck landmark property

20 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

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THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

Hatteras Island

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Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

22

23

OUTER BANKS

intro Victoria Bourne photos Sean Paul Ballentine

T

here’s no denying the beauty and wonder of the Outer Banks. Even at its worst, when the sea is raging, and the wind is howling there’s a fierce loveliness that inspires and impresses. In its quieter moments, as the sun rises over the Atlantic Ocean, casting a pastel glow on the dunes and nearby wildlife, it is a contemplative picture of perfection.

It’s easy to see why this barrier island is popular among professional and amateur photographers alike.

We reached out to Sean Paul Ballentine, a freelance photographer for Coast since 2019, asking to see what he sees through his lens. Ballentine, who grew up in Chesapeake, Virginia, moved to Duck in 2012 to be closer to the ocean, the beach and living on the coast. The beautiful landscapes, wildlife and scenery of the Outer Banks inspired him to become a photographer, he says, an endeavor he has pursued as a hobby since 2016.

And while he loves to take pictures of the ocean and beach and resident creatures such as birds, crabs and deer, Ballentine is drawn especially to sunrises and sunsets. “Those are

Opposite: “Bodie Island Nights III” This picture is a shot of the Bodie Island Lighthouse taken in May before daybreak. This is a full 30-second long exposure shot which helps capture the stars and the night sky.

my favorite things to shoot,” he says. As a full-time overnight associate at the Walmart in Kitty Hawk, he has the unique opportunity to head out after a shift to capture morning hues.

“I don’t really plan on my shots as far as location and what I’m going to do,” he says.

“It’s literally just how I feel and where I feel like going at that particular moment.”

The following is a collection of photos taken by Ballentine this summer. They are a reminder that despite the ongoing uncertainty in the world today, respite is not very far away.

Above left: “Summer July Moonrise” A picture taken one evening in July as the moon was rising out of the ocean in Duck.

I loved the color of the moon.

Above right: “JP Surfing” A picture of my nephew JP surfing a wave in July in Duck. It was a beautiful day with some good waves.

THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

A PHOTOGRAPHER’S

24 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

“JULY LOW TIDES”

A picture taken one morning in July of shells and waves during low tide in Corolla. Taken at a very low angle, this shot captures the beauty of the foreground of shells and the background of the ocean, as well as the beautiful pink cloud in the sky. This was a long exposure shot before the sun came up.

Right: “Kitty Hawk Paradise” A morning picture taken in June at a public beach access in Kitty Hawk. When the sun came up into the clouds, it created a beautiful glowing effect with some rays coming down. It was beautiful warm weather with no wind.

25 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

26 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

“VENUS AND MOON”

A picture taken in July in Duck. I went out on the beach early in the morning before daybreak, and I saw the moon and Venus side by side and took a full 30-second long exposure shot. A long exposure shot helps capture the night sky. It was clear with some clouds and the weather was fair and warm.

Continued on page 28

27

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THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

Homee Accents

28 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

“SUNRISE AND SAILBOAT”

A sunrise picture taken in Duck in June. I just happened to see the sailboat come right in front of the sun coming up out of the ocean. I thought that was very cool! I have never taken a picture like that. It was perfect timing!

Continued from page 26

Corolla Driving permitted after the paved road ends heading north through Corolla.

Beach driving is also permitted from Oct1-April 30 at designated beach accesses.

Speed limit 25 mph unless otherwise marked.

Duck

Southern Shores No Driving permitted.

■ (252) 261-2394 ■ southernshores.org

Kitty Hawk

No Driving permitted

■ (252) 261-3552 ■ townofkittyhawk.org

Kill Devil Hills

Driving permitted Oct. 1-April 30 (some areas may be closed to driving due to beach erosion and unsafe conditions). Speed limit 25 mph unless otherwise marked.

■ (252) 449-5300 ■ kdhnc.com

Nags Head

Oct. 1-April 30, a beach driving permit needed ($25) Available at the Nags Head Town offices and many tackle shops. Speed limit 25 mph unless otherwise marked.

■ (252) 441-5508 ■ townofnagshead.net

Driving an off-road vehicle (ORV) on the beach can be fun and adventurous, but where beach driving is permitted, there are general rules to follow: ■ The standard speed limit is 25 mph ■ Enter and leave the beach only at designated, open ramps − never between or on the dunes ■ Drive only on that portion of the beach which lies between the foot of the dunes and the ocean ■ Proceed with caution and consideration for other beach users; open containers of alcohol are prohibited in vehicles; your vehicle must have a state road registration and valid license plate; the operator must have a current driver’s license.

■ The use of off-road vehicles (ORV) on the beaches along Hatteras National Seashore is permitted yearround, with some limitations.

■ No permit is currently required to drive on the National Park Service (NPS) beaches, but it is advisable to check with a ranger to understand NPS guidelines and assure that you are not entering a closed zone.

■ Driving in the Pea Island Refuge is strictly prohibited.

■ Signs located at the various beach access ramps will state if driving is permitted on that particular area of the beach. Speed limit 25 mph unless otherwise marked.

■ (252) 473-2111 ■ nps.gov/caha/

in Duck

ND SOU UCK RIT CUR 12

WATERFRONT SHOPS

EACH YEAR, WE LOOK FORWARD to sharing our summer with Free Family Events at the Duck Town Park. Over the years, we’ve enjoyed spending time with our residents and visitors with fitness classes, magic shows, live music, and outdoor movies. 2020 has thrown some challenges our way but hasn’t affected the spirit of Duck!

WAT E R TOWER

WEE WINKS SQUARE

DUCK ROAD

Vehicles are not permitted on our beach between May 1 and September 30.

Vehicles are permitted during the other months of the year using designated private vehicular access points.

There are no public access points for vehicles within the town. Driving on the dunes is prohibited at all times.

■ (252) 232-2075 ■ co.currituck.nc.us

Hatteras Island to Ocracoke Cape Hatteras National Seashore

SHOP PLAY DINE STAY

THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

I

t’s fun to cut loose and drive on the sand in an off road vehicle — it’s the closest we, humans, can come to feeling like one of the wild mustangs that gallop on the northernmost beaches of Currituck County.

But unless rules are followed, driving on the same beaches as those magnificent beasts can be dangerous for the driver, passengers and the horses. It’s important to understand the law — and the unspoken agreement between human and animal.

Unless otherwise marked, speed limits are 25 mph and 15 mph or slower near the horses, pets, wild animals, and other people.

The speed limit on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands (Cape Hatteras National Seashore) is 15 mph.

Here are some other important rules of the off-road world: ■ Watch for fishing lines and children playing.

■ Stay at least 50 feet away from wild horses.

■ Never drive on dunes or vegetation.

■ Obey all posted signs.

■ Park perpendicular to the water in the middle of the beach.

■ Traffic flows near the shoreline and dunes, with parked cars sitting between.

■ Tow straps, shovel, spare tire, jack and jack board are recommended, and sometimes required to be in the vehicle.

■ Open containers of alcohol are prohibited in vehicles ■ Drivers need to have a current, valid driver’s license ■ Avoid driving or parking on the wrack line. The wrack line is a line of accumulated natural debris left by a previous high tide.

Wrack lines are an important food source for birds.

■ Pedestrians always have right-of-way on the beach For more information, contact the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau at (252) 473-2138 or visit outerbanks.org.

Following are general beach driving rules in each area (check with each town for the latest information):

29

General beach driving rules

Please check our website and social media pages for updates about events in Town, including virtual ways to connect with us and learn more about Duck.

DUCK COMMONS

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SCARBOROUGH LANE SHOPPES

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30 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

INNER BANKS

Wild foraging: The edible bounty at our feet

By Maggie Miles Correspondent

Since the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, people have been looking at the food system we rely on, namely the grocery store, and wondering if we have been taking it for granted.

On the Outer Banks, close to 100% of the food we consume is brought in from somewhere else. A recent report from a U.S.-based humanitarian organization called CARE says the number of people around the globe facing severe food insecurity or a food crisis could double to 270 million by the end of the year. At least 6 million people have registered for food benefits since the virus began to spread, according to the report.

It has some people turning to centuries-old practices, such as foraging, as a way to connect back to the land for respite and sustenance. A few stalwart locals are already looking to the bounty beneath their feet.

Rabiah Hodges, who lives in Nags Head Woods, had been spending tons of money on herbs for a heart condition when, after watching some videos on wild herbs, she realized those same plants grew all around her home.

“I was like, excuse me? I don’t have to buy all of these things off of Amazon and I can find these things out in the woods?” Hodges recalls.

Just in her driveway alone, she says she can find dandelion, chickweed and two types of plantain (the lowgrowing herb, not the fruit), all of which are considered nuisance weeds, but that actually have many medicinal anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and digestive benefits.

Hodges uses herbal teas and tinctures for a litany of issues stemming from an inflamed gut, and about 30% of the herbs she uses are wild foraged around her home, she says.

Terry Rowell, another local forager, doesn’t use specific plants for specific ben-

COURTESY OF TERRY ROWELL

Terry Rowell, a local forager, doesn’t use specific plants for specific benefits, he just trusts that if he eats a variety of them, he’ll get the nutrients he needs. He's pictured munching on some wild foraged sea beans.

efits, he just trusts that if he eats a variety of them, he’ll get the nutrients he needs.

Some of his favorites are sassafras, used to make root beer and thickening agents for things like gumbo, and lamb’s quarters, which he says is tastier and more nutrient dense than spinach.

Rowell makes time to forage every day, he says, and sometimes what he finds makes up 100% of what he eats on a given day.

Foraging may be a great way to have more food sovereignty and access to nutrient dense edibles, but for Rowell it’s also a way to connect with his ancestors.

Not only did Native Americans consume a foraged diet, but settlers survived

“You can’t be looking for these plants and have a ton of things going on in your mind. You have to be completely just in it. … And then you get to go home with a bunch of food!”

— Terry Rowell the winter because they learned to eat it, too, says Rowell. “So, it gives you a connection to the past.”

Jim Gould got into eating wild edibles as a kayak guide years ago. He had to learn the local flora and fauna for the tours, and then thought, “I’m going to try some of this stuff!”

He can name an endless number of native species he’s tried: Yaupon holly, a

native plant that is high in caffeine and can be dried for tea; dotted horse mint for digestion and antioxidants; duck potatoes with roots that taste similar to water chestnuts; and cattails, the insides of which he says tastes crisp and flavorful like a cucumber.

Gould also forages plants such as American beautyberry to use as insect repellant when crushed up

and rubbed on his arms.

Terri Kirby Hathaway, a marine education specialist for North Carolina Sea Grant in Manteo, organized an annual wild food festival that ran for years on the Outer Banks until the mid-1990s. People came from all over to create dishes from foraged plants and animals, she says.

They’d make things like sea rocket quiche, mole crab

stew, sea lettuce squares, glass wort cheese balls and beauty berry pie. But generally, contemporary society leans more toward ease and instant gratification, she says.

“It used to be you had to go out and find your own food and we’ve started relying so much on convenience,” she says. “It’s not convenient to go out into the marsh and collect things and bring them home and wash them and all that … .

As a result, “we’ve lost the connection to nature,” she says. But, she notes, foraging is a great activity to get the whole family outdoors together.

There are some tips to See BANKS/Page 31

31

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Jim Gould got into eating wild edibles as a kayak guide years ago.

BANKS

Continued from 30 foraging, don’t pick close to the road and don’t be greedy, leave some of the plant behind to reproduce.

But all share a word of caution: always triple check your plant identifications before consuming anything.

They suggest saving some of the plant in case you have a negative reaction and have to go to the doctor for medical assistance.

In fact, going with someone who knows what they’re doing is the best idea for novices, they say.

But, Rowell says, no matter what, use foraging as an opportunity to be present in the moment.

“You can’t be looking for these plants and have a ton of things going on in your mind,” he says. “You have to be completely just in it. …

And then you get to go home with a bunch of food!”

Note: It’s always important to consult with your doctor before making any changes related to your health.

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THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

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Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

32

Kid-friendly activities aside from the beach

By Maggie Miles

Correspondent

The coronavirus pandemic has made everything just a little bit harder, including keeping the kids entertained. Although a day at the beach is always a great way to burn off youthful energy, sometimes you just want to do something different. We’ve got five alternatives that the whole family can enjoy.

DAVE FAIRBANK/FREELANCE

The Pea Island Cookhouse Museum is at 622 Sir Walter Raleigh St., Manteo.

MAGGIE MILES/FREELANCE

Check out the original Little Red Mailbox at the Glenmere Avenue beach access in Kill Devil Hills.

1. Make your own family scavenger hunt with historical significance Creating a scavenger hunt is a great way to get the family out to learn fun facts about Outer Banks history.

There are a lot of wellknown historical tidbits about our barrier island, like being first in flight, and being home to the Lost Colony, but the Outer Banks is rich with many little known relics and memorabilia that your children, and you, will find fascinating.

Local writer Hannah Bunn West gives a couple of examples, with a little history from her forthcoming book due out in 2021 from Arcadia Publishing and The History Press: Where can you find the original cookhouse building from the Pea Island Lifesaving Station?

Answer: At the Pea Island Cookhouse Museum located in Collins Park in Manteo Moved to its current location in 2006, the Cookhouse Museum commemorates the remarkable service of the all-Black lifesaving crew of the Pea Island station under the leadership of Keeper Richard Etheridge. A life-sized bronze statue of Etheridge

presides over the park. He was a former slave who served in the Union during the Civil War and was the first African-American Keeper in the history of the U.S. Lifesaving Service.

Where can you find the brick foundation of a home from a real Outer Banks ghost town?

Answer: On the Roanoke Trail in Nags Head Woods Nature has reclaimed the area, now a preserve managed by the Nature Conservancy, but it was once home to a thriving local community as far back as the mid-1800s. Recognizable Outer Banks family names like Tillett, Twiford and Midgette lived in the woods and farmed, fished and raised livestock. They also catered to tourists to make a living, cleaning the cottages of “The Unpainted Aristocracy” along Cottage Row and selling soft crabs and produce door-to-door. The last home remaining in the woods was lost to a fire around 1950, but you can still see its brick foundations in the underbrush along the Roanoke Trail.

2. Visit the Little Red Mailbox, where you can leave a note of special meaning or hope

When Sue Goodrich, 60, of Nags Head, lost her mother in 2014, she would go to sit on the beach, look out at the ocean, and say, “Oh, mother!” One day, she says, she heard her mother’s voice respond, “If you ever feel sad, Sue, help somebody else out.” Shortly after, she met a photographer friend, Roy Edmond, at Starbucks. He showed her a photo of the Glenmere » SEE ACTIVITIES, PAGE 33

33 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020 JUDY HAHS/FREELANCE

Nags Head Woods Preserve is an extensive ecological preserve that protects a range of unique habitats, including forested dunes, interdune ponds, marshes and wetlands.

ACTIVITIES

While the below deck of the Elizabeth II is currently closed due to the pandemic, the above deck can still be toured as part of the experience at Roanoke Island Festival Park.

Continued from 32

beach access, and said, “I took this picture, but it’s missing something.” This was her nudge. She called the town of Kill Devil Hills with the proposal for the Little Red Mailbox. She thought town officials would think she was a crazy dreamer. But to her surprise, they embraced it immediately. Now, people of all ages come from far and wide to leave their messages of hope and read the messages others have left. As the journals fill up, they are taken to the town of Kill Devil Hills, every page scanned, and posted onto the town Facebook page for Mailbox Monday, and then kept in the town archives.

Children love it, too. A couple of years ago, an

English teacher from Loudoun County, Virginia, was inspired to keep a journal in her classroom. Each child wrote a note of hope, and she hand delivered them to Goodrich and the town mayor at the time, Sheila Davies. “Even in times of diversity and challenge, kids always have a message of hope,” says Goodrich. Now, there are mailboxes in 19 towns. “It’s been a nice, nice thing for people, especially during these times,” she says. “We are spreading hope, one little red mailbox at a time.”

Check out the one that started it all at the Glenmere Avenue beach access in Kill Devil Hills.

See ACTIVITIES/Page 34

CONTRIBUTED

34 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

DAVE FAIRBANK/FREELANCE

A statue of Richard Etheridge, the first Black officer in charge of a U.S. Lifesaving Station, stands outside the Pea Island Cookhouse Museum.

ACTIVITIES Continued from 33

3. Experience a new adventure in an old world at Roanoke Island Festival Park

This 25-acre interactive historic site, clad with costumed historic interpreters, gives young and old a glimpse at the lives of settlers and native Americans when the first English settlers arrived in 1585. Although the indoor museum and below deck on the ship Elizabeth II are closed, the park continues to offer a great educational and funfilled experience for kids, including the American Indian town, the settlement site and above deck on the Elizabeth II. The American Indian town features a garden area, dance circle, leader’s house, and longhouse with interac-

tive exhibits that allow guests to learn more about Algonquin Indian history and culture. The basket weaving and longhouse building activities are the only hands-on attractions that are unavailable currently. While below deck is closed, the upper deck of the Elizabeth II, the representational ship that interprets one of the English merchant vessels from the Roanoke Voyage of 1585, is still open to the public. The costumed interpretive staff of sailors will gladly answer your questions about the ship, the historic Roanoke voyages, or any other inquiry about the beginnings of English-speaking America. Currently they are allowing five guests aboard deck at a time so that visitors can safely socially distance.

In the settlement site, guests can still watch the

blacksmith at work, try out the bow lathe, test out the pillory, and explore the military tent. All their activities are outdoors and spread out, and hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the park. While there, stop by the ticket shop, filled with fun souvenirs, and don’t miss the large rock pit filled with shark teeth for children to find and keep.

4. Explore Nags Head Woods Nature Conservancy

Get your kids out to experience the sites, scents, sounds and most beloved by all children – critters – of a rare woodland habitat. Maritime forests such as Nags Head Woods are becoming increasingly rare due to human development throughout coastal environments. These woods boast an amazing amount of plant diversity, including trees such as oaks, hickories and beech. There are seven

HYUNSOO LÉO KIM/STAFF FILE

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is one of the darkest and best places for stargazing along the East Coast.

plant community types, including one that is globally rare: the maritime deciduous forest. So far, there are 550 plant species documented. As far as animals go, there are 150 species of birds, including prothonotary warblers, summer tanagers, and blue grosbeaks, 50 species of amphibians and reptiles, seven species of fish in the fresh water ponds, and more than 20 different mammal species.

If you are lucky, you might see the adorable fan favorite, the river otter, and if you are really, really lucky you might spot the most recently sighted animal in the woods, the bobcat.

Due to COVID-19, the office and visitor services are closed, but all trails remain open. There is an audio tour on the Roanoke Trail that tells of the history and town that used to be located in the woods, and if you would like help identifying plants there are free apps that you can download on your phone. Some great options are PlantNet and

PictureThis. Just take a picture of the plant on your phone and it will identify it.

Remember to stay 6 feet apart on the trails, and in the summer months, don’t forget to use lots of bug spray.

5. Make a family night of star gazing With minimum artificial light in the Outer Banks, the celestial show at night is amazing. If you come from the city, you may never have seen a show like the one the night sky of the Outer Banks and the Outer Albemarle Peninsula can offer. The beaches of Cape Hatteras, Ocracoke and Duck are some of the best places to go. Use apps like Sky Guide to identify constellations with your kids. If you want a beautiful keepsake, local photographer Wes Snyder offers Family Milky Way Portraits. Using a special camera, he can take a photo of your family with the Milky Way in clear view

behind you.

If you’re up for a short drive inland, Coastwatch Magazine recently named the Outer Albemarle Peninsula, the 2.4 million acres of public lands and waters and surrounding estuaries and barrier islands, as some of the darkest skies and best star gazing on the Atlantic Coast. A famous place to go star gazing there is Pettigrew National Park, just outside of Columbia. The park has a sky chart on its website so you can pick a perfect night to go. If a date has a blue square next to it, that means it’s probably going to be a great night for star gazing.

If you want to leave it to a professional and learn from a local, then Ghost Crab Quest might be for you. The company specializes in various Outer Banks explorations, including star gazing. One of the owners and tour guides, such as Jim Gould, will meet you at a designated spot and give you and your family a beginner’s astronomy lesson.

Exposure to the sun

Enjoying the sunshine means also being aware of the dangers of prolonged exposure to the sun. Proper and regular application of sunscreen to exposed skin will help protect your skin from sunburn and sun damage. Remember to reapply sunscreen every time you get out of the water.

Rip currents Rip currents are channeled currents of water that flow away from shore, and can quickly pull even the strongest swimmers out to sea. Since the current flows under water, it’s important to know the signs of a rip current and avoid the water in that area.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), indicators of rip currents include: • A channel of churning, choppy water.

• Notable differences in water color.

• Lines of foam, seaweed or debris moving steadily seaward.

• A break in the incoming wave pattern.

Check the National Weather Service Surf Zone Forecasts for the latest rip current, high and low tide and surf height information. You’ll want to check

the Outer Banks regional forecast.

Flags on public beaches also indicate rip current alerts: green for low hazard and calm conditions, yellow for medium hazard with moderate surf conditions, and red for high hazard with rough conditions indicating rip currents. Be sure to look for flags on lifeguard stations and read the sign keys when arriving at the beach.

If you see warning signs of rip currents or moderate or high hazard flags, stay out of the water and alert others to do the same. If caught in a rip current, you should stay calm to conserve energy and allow yourself to think clearly.

Don’t try to fight the current. Instead, swim out in a direction following the shoreline and swim toward shore once you’re out of the current.

OUTER BANKS VACATION RENTALS & REAL ESTATE SALES

Beach life is the

Whether you are listing a home for sale, looking for an investment property or seeking the perfect Outer Banks beach house to call home, we offer unprecedented service in making your experience the best it can be.

Watch for flags posted at many beach access sites signifying water conditions.

Lifeguarded beaches

The Outer Banks welcomes several million guests annually and many of these people enjoy our shores and waters. For travelers who prefer swimming on beaches with lifeguard stations, here’s a list of lifeguard stations. Please note: lifeguard locations are subject to change at any time. Roving lifeguards also patrol the beaches on ATVs. Corolla Bonita Street, Buck Island, Crown Point, Currituck Bath House at The Currituck ClubHamilepostton Inn, Pine Island, Herring Street, Lighthouse Ramilepost at Corolla Village R, oad, ean Sands (sections D, F, O, P, S), Sailfish Street, Shad Street, Sturgeon Street, Villages of Ocean Hill

Duck Barrier Island Station, Four Seasons, Plover Drive, Schooner Ridge Drive, Sprigtail Drive Southern Shores Chickahauk Beach, Hillcrest Beach Kitty Hawk Byrd Street: milepost 2, Eckner Street: milepost 3, Kitty Hawk Bath House, south of Kitty Hawk Road: milepost 4 Kill Devil Hills 1st Street: milepost 7.5, 2nd Street: milepost 7.25, 4th Street: milepost 6.75, 5th Street: milepost 6.5 (near K-MART), Asheville Street: milepost 7.5, Atlantic Street: milepost 9.5, Calvin Street: milepost 9, Carlow Avenue: milepost 8.25, Clark Street — milepost 9, Hayman Boulevard: milepost 5.75, Helga Street: milepost 5.5., Lake Drive: milepost 9.75, Martin Street: milepost 9.25, Neptune Drive (Ocean Acres): milepost 9.75, Ocean Bay Boulevard: milepost 8.5, Oregon Avenue: milepost 8.6, Woodmere Avenue: milepost 8

Nags Head Albatross Street: milepost 10.25, Bonnett Street: milepost 11.5, Enterprise Street: milepost 14, Epstein Street: milepost 14.5, Forrest Street: milepost 15.75, Gray Eagle Street: milepost 16.5, Gulf Stream Street: milepost 16.6, Hollowell Street: milepost 12, Hargrove Street: milepost 17.5, Juncos Street: milepost 19.5 Cape Hatteras National Seashore Cape Hatteras, Swim Beach, Coquina Beach, Ocracoke Swim Beach

Jellyfish

Jellyfish and Portuguese man o’ war stings are best avoided by staying aware of beach surroundings. In the case of a sting, it should be treated quickly.

Jellyfish have clear, jellylike bodies, with tentacles with stinging structures hanging below, and swim under water.

Both inject venom when they sting, and can sting even after they’re dead, so avoid touching those washed up on the beach.

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THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

A trip to the Outer Banks’ beautiful beaches is an enjoyable and memorable experience for many visitors and families. Whether you’re going swimming, sailing or surfing, taking strolls in the sand or laying out to catch some sun, or participating in any of the many other activities at our coastal attractions, we want your time at the beach to be as safe as it is fun.

Here are some tips and resources to help you stay safe:

Beach warning flags

35

Take beach safety seriously

36 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

READER PHOTOS

COURTESY OF AMY JO

COURTESY OF BRANDI ANNA ROSA-LEWIS

COURTESY OF SUSIE MULLINS

The Outer Banks is a great place to create new memories and family traditions; often those moments are captured in photos.

We reached out to Outer Banks fans through a couple of group pages on Facebook (Outer Banks of North Carolina and OBX, NC) to request images that capture the essence of this barrier island — from family snapshots to fishing photos to wildlife encounters — and boy did we get some great submissions! We’ll share batches of them on this page and in future Coasts, as space permits.

Jockey’s Ridge Brandi Anna Rosa-Lewis submitted a photo of her children looking out onto Jockey’s Ridge. Rosa-Lewis says she grew up on the Outer Banks and now resides in Virginia Beach.

Curious Minds

Anne Kerr from Syracuse, New York, says she and her siblings’ families visited Corolla in August 2019 for her niece’s weeklong gradation party. Kerr says her grandchildren, ages 3 and 4, saw the ocean for the very first time. Her grandson, Bryson Robarge, loved to stand and let the waves

wash over him, she says, and never wanted to leave the water. “He was so funny in the water and using his magnifying glass to see what he could!”

Nags Head Sunrise

Amy Jo posted a lovely sunrise photo to Outer Banks of North Carolina Facebook page taken in June in Nags Head.

Banker Ponies

Susie Mullins posted a photo to Outer Banks of North Carolina Facebook of one of the Corolla wild horses strolling the beach in Carova.

COURTESY OF ANNE KERR

37

There are Treasures to Behold

Just Outside the OBX on highway 158 south of the VA/NC state line you’ll find an award-winning winery, Sanctuary Vineyards, offering both tours and tastings, and NC’s first craft brewery, The Weeping Radish, offering unique farm-to-fork fair to those who know good food.

Come see why your vacation begins on the road to Corolla.

Call 877.287.7488 for more information, driving directions or a free visitors guide

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Visit us online at VisitCurrituck.com

THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

On the Road to Corolla

38 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

Welcome to the Coast’s coloring page!

No matter your age, coloring is a great way to relax and unwind. Use whatever color palette you like to make this beach scene your very own.

39 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT Friday, August 28, 2020

Get Out of the Sand and into Great Wide Open Golf

The Courses are Calling The Currituck Outer Banks and Mainland are home to six awe-inspiring out-of-the-way golf courses, giving golfers the option to experience more than one course in a day, testing old pros and newcomers alike with variety of play. Come see what those in the know are calling Currituck’s best kept secret for yourself.

Call 877.287.7488 for more information, driving directions or a free golf guide

Corolla • Carova • The Mainland

Visit us online at VisitCurrituck.com

40 Friday, August 28, 2020 THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

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