April 2023 Southport Magazine

IN THIS ISSUE

Spring has sprung and we are ready! In this issue, you’ll learn about how Boiling Spring Lakes has become a model for how a community can come together to embrace and help preserve a threatened plant species, in this case the amazing (and super cool) Venus Fly Trap. Be sure to celebrate nature at Southport’s Nature Fest and Oak Island’s Earth Day events as well.

We also spoke to Chef Jason at St. James’ Members Club about his new cookbook exploring the ways he’s drawn from his native West Virginia Appalachian cuisine to create upscale dishes. And our Finding Flavor column returns to dive into a summer picnic staple--deviled eggs!

Ofcourse we also highlight more of the best this community has to offer, including all the fun things the crew over at the Maritime Museum has going on. There’s so much to do as Spring winds up and we sail into the summer season. Go out there and enjoy it all!

STAFF

EDITOR

Jeffrey Stites editor@southportmag.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Lisa P. Stites

lisa@southportmag.com

LEAD DESIGNER

Liz Brinker

lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

Chuck and Sue Cothran

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Carla Edstrom

Patty Langer

Ashley Park

Lisa P. Stites

Jeffrey Stites

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jeffrey Stites

PUBLISHER & SALES

Jeffrey Stites

jeff@southportmag.com

910-471-7741

CONSULTANT

Kris Beasley

PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461

Southport Magazine is published once a month by Live Oak Media with an extra publication in July for the Southport Fourth of July Festival. The opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of the staff.

Annual Subscription: $45

jeff@southportmag.com

910-471-7741

Currents

Venus Flytrap Haven

Boiling Spring Lakes A Preservation Model

STORY BY PATRICIA LANGER, FLYTRAP PHOTOS KATHY SYKES

In September of 2022, roughly 300 Venus flytrap plants were rescued from an area in Boiling Spring Lakes about to be developed for the site of a new fire station. A crew of volunteers dug up the plants and relocated them to public land at the Boiling Spring Lakes Preserve. Tyler Gramley, Vice President of the North American Sarracenia Conservancy (NASC), planned and led the effort, with help from members of the Fire Rescue Department, the city’s Board of Commissioners and Police Department, the NC Native Plant Society, and the “Venus Flytrap Champions.” The Boiling Spring Lakes Fire Rescue agreed to maintain the new site of the plants.

So why all the fuss over a bunch of plants?

Because Venus flytraps are extraordinary biological specimens that exhibit unique survival traits. And because the small, funky plants, which are native only to coastal areas in North and South Carolina, are a threatened species in the wild. And because Boiling Spring Lakes happens to be the epicenter of their geographically limited world, with plants growing in residential areas and in natural habitats.

TRAPPING PREY

Venus flytraps are arguably the most widely-recognized carnivorous plant on earth. Not only do they eat bugs, but their appearance is quite unique. Long green leaves are topped with a set of jaw-like pods that are lined with spikey white teeth, and a bright red center coated with sticky nectar. They look like big gaping mouths ready to snap shut and devour unsuspecting prey. It’s a bit gruesome, actually, to think about a plant that traps and eats flies and spiders. But I’ll admit, my impression of the Venus flytrap may have been warped by watching “Little Shop of Horrors” in the 1980s. You know, the movie about a carnivorous plant that looked a lot like a Venus flytrap, but that was sustained by human blood and became increasingly aggressive as it grew to an enormous size, constantly demanding to be fed.

“Feeeed me, Seymour!”

Well, believe it or not, the real-life flytrap is far more fascinating!

The Venus flytrap catches its prey with a “snap trap” that consists of two hinged lobes, lined along the perimeter with stiff white bristles. The lobes exhibit “rapid plant movement,” snapping shut when stimulated by prey. The trapping mechanism is tripped when prey contacts one of the tiny hairs on the red surface of the lobes. The mechanism is so highly specialized that it can distinguish between living prey and non-prey stimuli, such as falling raindrops or dust; two trigger hairs must be touched in succession within 20 seconds of each other or one hair touched twice in rapid succession, whereupon the lobes of the trap will snap shut, typically in about one-

tenth of a second. Crazy, right? The bristles then form a tight lock to prevent large prey from escaping (smaller insects that are not meal-worthy are allowed to leave!). After a few more triggers of the hairs, just to be sure the bug is worth the effort, the plant will start to produce enzymes inside the trap that break down the insect’s nutrients, which are digested. Typically, a trap will remain closed for about a week until all the nutrients have been absorbed and only a shriveled up, dehydrated carcass remains, according to an article on Wikipedia. I’ll admit it sounds pretty morbid, but since Venus flytraps grow in nutrient poor soil, they need to supplement their diet with insects in order to survive.

LOCAL RESIDENCY

“Did you know that the Venus flytrap is the official carnivorous plant of BSL?” I asked my husband recently.

“Oh, that’s cool,” he replied with mild enthusiasm. “But really, how many carnivorous plants are there?” he chuckled.

“Actually, there are 66 species of carnivorous plants in the United States, and an astounding 36 of them reside in North Carolina!” I replied smugly. “Furthermore, 14 of the species live right in the Green Swamp!”

Okay, so maybe I did just read all that on the Nature Conservancy website, but the facts still surprised him, and me too.

Even more surprising is the fact that the only place on earth were Venus flytraps grow naturally in the wild is right here in Coastal NC and just over the border in South Carolina. More specifically, their habitat is an 80-mile radius around Wilmington, with the highest concentration of flytraps found in the Green Swamp Preserve and in our local town of Boiling Spring Lakes.

According to an organization called the “Venus Flytrap Champions” (that’s right, it’s a thing), Venus flytraps grow in longleaf pine savannas found in two regions of the Carolinas — the Coastal Plains and the Sandhills. They grow in sunny, damp soil and in areas where water puddles, along

creeks and in other wet areas. In Boiling Spring Lakes they can be found in roadside ditches and swampy fields, but they are smaller than you think and can be hard to find. It’s easier to spot them when they bloom with delicate white flowers in late spring and early summer. If you do find them, snap a picture but DO NOT PICK THEM! Poaching, or picking Venus flytraps is a felony! Fortunately, the plants are readily available at nurseries and reputable retail locations, and growing them at home is encouraged.

LOSS OF HABITAT THREATENS THE SPECIES

According to the Boiling Spring Lakes website, the greatest threat to Venus flytraps is the loss of habitat due to construction of structures and roads. Other factors include runoff of pesticides used in farming and a lack of burning to remove competition from shrubs and trees. In some unusual situations, like in BSL, mowing of roadsides replaces burning by removing vegetation that shades out populations.

Because they are currently considered threatened as opposed to endangered, there is minimal protection for these plants on public or private grounds in many states, so they are rapidly disappearing.

An article on Wikipedia highlights the magnitude of the loss. A large-scale survey in 2019, conducted by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, counted a total

of 163,951 individual Venus flytraps in North Carolina and 4,876 in South Carolina, estimating a total of 302,000 plants remaining in the wild in its native range. This represents a staggering reduction of more than 93% from a 1979 estimate of approximately 4,500,000 plants.

BOILING SPRING LAKES — A SAFE HAVEN FOR VENUS FLYTRAPS

The North American Sarracenia Conservancy (NASC), a non-profit organization formed in 2005 to preserve the natural habitats and genetic diversity of the genus Sarracenia, also know as the Pitcher Plant, plays a role in preserving the habitat of the Venus flytrap. Like the flytrap, pitcher plants are carnivorous, trapping prey in hollow, liquid filled centers. And like the Venus flytrap, some species of pitcher plants are threatened, while others are critically endangered.

The NASC holds an annual auction to raise money to support “Nature Conservancy” lands in NC and to support the rescue and maintenance efforts of threatened plant species. In 2016, the NASC first bought land to add to the Boiling Spring Lakes Preserve and is currently adding 25 additional acres, in partnership with The Nature Conservancy and the State of North Carolina.

The Boiling Spring Lakes Preserve is a 6,000-acre land mass, home to rare flora and fauna, including a variety of carnivorous plants (including the flytrap), rare orchids, and the endangered red cockaded woodpecker. It is owned by the NC Department of Agriculture and managed by the Nature Conservancy, a global environmental non-profit dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. The BSL Preserve includes a 3-mile nature trail that begins at the Community Center off N.C. 87 and is open to the public, or anyone who wants to hunt for Venus flytraps.

A MOVEMENT TO SAVE THE CARNIVORES!

Turns out there are a lot of people who really, really love the Venus flytrap!

I recently met with Stephanie Bodmer, owner of the very hip, retro-themed Boiling Spring Lakes Motel, who has been spearheading efforts to make the little plant a big part of the Town’s tourist appeal. Bodmer successfully petitioned the BSL Council to

have the Venus flytrap declared the City’s official plant and has been instrumental in raising local awareness of the need to protect its habitat.

Stephanie learned about the plight of the Venus flytrap from visiting botanist Julie Moore, a biologist from Chapel Hill who stayed at the BSL Motel when she came to observe the plants in early 2022. Retired from the state government, Moore’s career focused on endangered plant species, so she was already familiar with the area from her work in the 1970s and 1980s.

“Julie taught me a lot about the Venus flytrap and explained to me that BSL is like ground zero for the plants,” Bodmer told me.

In January of 2023, Moore introduced Bodmer to Emmy-winning producer, director and documentary filmmaker Robert Ford (the Emmy was for his film about the paralympic games, “Rising Phoenix”). Ford, it turns out, is kind of obsessed with Venus flytraps. He stayed at the BSL Motel while researching the possibility of a documentary about the people of Boiling Spring Lakes and their efforts to protect the famous plants. Encouraged by what he learned, Moore is expected to return soon to continue his research while he works to procure funding for a film.

With all the recent interest in the Venus flytrap, Bodmer and Moore are encouraged.

“BSL has an opportunity to recognize the importance of preserving the Venus flytrap,” Moore said. “The more awareness we raise, the better. By encouraging voluntary conservation, which seems less threatening, people tend to be more receptive. There are many roles that BSL citizens can play to help this species survive and thrive.”

Moore is exploring ideas for public educational displays with conservation people from the State and has been in talks with the historic village of Brunswick Town as a possible location.

In April 2022, Stephanie called Moore after her friend Kathy Sykes noticed that Venus flytraps were being mowed down along East Boiling Spring Lakes Road by the NCDOT. Moore spoke with DOT

personnel and was able to stop the mowing. Shortly after that, Moore and Knapp spoke with personnel to develop a plan for the ongoing care of the plants along the roadside. Aaron Harward, Public Works Superintendent for Boiling Spring Lakes, stepped up to map out the exact locations of all the plants in town and designated these areas off limits to mowing during spring seeding season. Once the plants have begun to grow, the blades of the mowers will be set at a higher height to avoid damaging the plants. For his efforts to help protect and preserve the continued growth of the Venus flytrap, Harward was awarded a plaque of recognition from the Venus Flytrap Champions in February, 2023.

MOMENTUM KEEPS THINGS GROWING

It seems fair to say that the Venus flytrap movement in Boiling Spring Lakes has gained significant momentum over the last year, with renewed interest from local politicians, media outlets, and special interest

groups. Local developers have begun to work with the city to relocate plants to the BSL Conservancy before beginning any construction. Thanks in large part to Bodmer, Moore, and Harward, the city has posted information about the Venus Flytrap on its website, including tips for developers and property owners on how and where to relocate the plants, procedures for securing permits to move them, and links to volunteers with the NASC and Venus Flytrap Champions who will assist in relocations. Next up on the agenda is a public space where citizens can see Venus flytraps, educational displays, exhibits, and continued public awareness campaigns.

“We would love to see a designated space where the public can safely view the plants and learn more about them,” Bodmer said. “It would be great to have some local sources that could sell the plants too, so people are not tempted to poach. Down the road, an annual Venus flytrap Festival would be a great way to increase tourism in our town!” she added enthusiastically. Let’s hope it happens!

To learn more about the Venus flytrap, stop by the Boiling Spring Lakes City Hall for a brochure about the plant, or visit one of these websites:

Currents Hillbilly Cuisine

Members Club Chef Releases Cookbook

STORY BY LISA STITES

Goodchefs pull from their life experiences and places they’ve lived to create their dishes. For Jason Talbott, chef de cuisine at the Members Club in St. James, that means bringing lessons and skills he learned from family in the West Virginia Appalachian Mountains to the North Carolina coast. It’s what he calls hillbilly fusion, and he’s recently published some of his favorite recipes in his new cookbook, “Modern Appalachian Cuisine.” The cookbook is available in bookstores, or online at Amazon, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes & Noble. We wanted to learn more about chef Jason, how he got into the kitchen, and his collection of recipes and cooking tips.

How did you get interested in cooking? Your cookbook includes some family recipes — was cooking a family thing?

I really became interested in cooking

when I was young. As a family, we cooked together a lot — my mom and dad, also my grandparents. Some of the first memories I have are of watching my grandmother peel potatoes, also of watching my grandfather bake bread.

You talk about the Appalachian community relying on what’s available as far as ingredients - how has that influenced your cooking style?

I really believe wholeheartedly that the

farm-to-table trend started in Appalachia. People there were growing their own vegetables and hunting their own meat long before the Food Network made it cool. It wasn’t until I left West Virginia that I realized not everybody does that. So I really think my upbringing had a lot to do with my cooking style. Most of the people I knew when I was growing up were poor, so if you didn’t grow it or shoot it, you didn’t eat it. I really have to say that over the years I have learned how to mash different cuisines together with Appalachian

food. That’s where what I like to refer to as hillbilly fusion comes from.

How did you end up in Brunswick County and working in St. James?

Well, I actually heard of St. James because I did my externship for culinary school on Bald Head Island all the way back in 2000. I really fell in love with the area. So when the job of chef de cuisine of the Members Club came up, I couldn’t resist.

How long has this cookbook been in the works? Is it something you’ve wanted to do for a while, and why did you want to do one?

The cookbook came about really out of boredom during the pandemic. I have always really thought of writing one, but like most people, I had to find something to do with my time when I was sitting around all day. So after I had decided that I was go

ing to write one, I started thinking about what I should write about, and talking to my family, I decided to write about food from Appalachia. I wanted to show people

that you could make gourmet mountain food and it not be super complicated in the process.

Of the recipes you included, which is your favorite, and why?

My favorite dish in the book hands down is grit casserole. My grandmother Jean would make it all the time when I was a kid. I absolutely love my mom, and she still makes it for me almost every time I travel home to West Virginia.

We’ve seen a lot of new restaurants in our area the past several years and cooking shows are still so popular — what advice would you give someone who is just starting out as a cook or who wants to learn new techniques but doesn’t know where to start?

My advice would be find a good mentor and stick with them. Cooking is one of those things you need to practice to be good at. So the more you cook, the better you can get.

Is there anything else you’d like people to know?

Have fun when you’re cooking and get your family into it. Don’t make it a chore.

Maritime Museum

Events For Entire Crew On The Horizon

STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

TheNC Maritime Museum at Southport is sailing into spring with all sorts of events and activities for all ages. From a new club for model builders to a Jazz Night fundraiser, lectures, classes, and special time in the museum for home schoolers and children with sensory issues, there’s no better time to go find out what our own local museum (at 204 East Moore St.) has to offer.

New Orleans-Style Jazz Night Fundraiser

Come join the Friends of the NC Maritime Museum at Southport’s New Orleans Style Jazz night April 21, 6-9 pm at the Southport Community Building! Get your tickets to enjoy a night of jazz music featuring Le Group Du Jour with Mark Bachata on vocals, New Orleans style heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, a wine and Bourbon Street cocktail bar, a fun “wine grab,” and live and silent auctions. Tickets are available at the Museum, or online at www. FriendsNCNNSouthport.com. Every dollar raised at this event supports the mission of the Friends of the NC Maritime Museum at Southport.

Sponsorships are also available, including donations of products, services and gift certificates for the silent auction. Sponsors will be recognized on a poster that will be displayed at the event and in the Museum during the month of June, on their web-

site, in social media and in the after-event “Thank You” advertisement. To sponsor or donate to this event, contact a Jazz Night committee member by calling 910-4775154 or emailing SouthportFOM@gmail. com.

Lectures, Classes and Children’s Events

Sensory Saturday: Underwater Egg

Hunt

April 1, 10 am - noon

Stop by the museum for Sensory Saturday! From 10 am to noon on the first Saturday of every month, the exhibit hall lights will be dimmed and audio volume will be muted. For April’s event, visitors will have the opportunity to decorate their own maritime-themed Easter egg and participate in a special Easter Egg-themed scavenger hunt accessible and fun for all

ages and abilities. Museum volunteers will be on hand to assist as needed. The program is free (donations are appreciated) and open to the public. Registration is not required. For information, contact Curator of Programming and Education Shannon Walker at shannon.walker@ncdcr.gov or (910) 477-5153

Third Tuesday Lecture Series: “What Is There To Do When You Find an Old Indian Canoe?: Anti-Colonialism in Maritime Archaeology”

April 18, 7 pm

Join Dr. Sara Rich for a presentation that looks at the circumstances surrounding a 4,000-year-old Late Archaic dugout canoe illegally excavated from the Cooper River in South Carolina in 1997. The removal put the diver at odds with recognition of the rights of the Native Peoples of South Carolina. Rich’s lecture, “What Is There To Do When You Find an Old Indian Canoe?: Anti-Colonialism in Maritime Archaeology,” will be presented at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St., at 7 pm on April 18. The program is part of the museum’s Third Tuesday series, free lectures geared for ages 16 and older.

The programs are open to the public; donations are appreciated. Seating is limited, so advance registration is required. Register online at ncmaritimemuseumsouthport.com or by calling (910) 4775151.

Homeschool Friday: “Black, Blue, and Gold: Tar, Indigo, and Rice on the Cape Fear”

April 21, 11 am - 2 p.m.

Learn how these important plants (pine trees, indigo, and rice) and the skilled enslaved African laborers behind them helped create the economic backbone of

the Lower Cape Fear in the 18th century. Participants will have the opportunity to explore history through hands-on activities, stations, and take-homes. The program is appropriate for ages 4–18. Cost is $10 per child, which is payable at the door. Friends of the Maritime Museum at Southport receive a 10-percent discount. Participants are free to move at their own pace throughout the individual stations. However, they are asked to register for an arrival time to assist museum staff with crowd control inside the museum and grounds. Registration closes at 4 pm the day prior. For more information or to register, email shannon.walker@ncdcr.gov or call (910) 477-5151 to register.

Learning the Ropes: A Beginners Guide to Splicing

April 22, 10:30 am - noon

Curious about the nautical art of splicing and don’t know where to start? What’s the difference between a slice and a knot? Join the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport for a beginners’ primer with instructor Tom Lacey. Lacey grew up on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire and spent his summers working at a marina where he learned how to splice three-strand rope. The program is free and open to the public; donations are appreciated. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. Registration closes at 4 pm the day prior. For more information or to register, visit ncmaritimemuseumsouthport. com, email shannon.walker@ncdcr.gov or call 910-477-5151.

Model Club

The NC Maritime Museum at Southport uses scale models to bring the size of massive ships to a more accessible level.

However, according to Museum Manager John Moseley, the collection serves an even greater purpose.

“Each model is a piece of art and is a three-dimensional representation of history,” Moseley said. “Model makers spend many hours researching and perfecting techniques of construction and painting to develop this art form.”

To encourage and support others interested in model making, Moseley has partnered with the Wilmington Plastic Modelers Club for a new monthly program at the museum, located at 204 E. Moore St. in downtown Southport.

The next meeting will be held from 1-4 pm on May 13 at the museum. Members of the Wilmington club will be on hand with a variety of ships, planes, tanks, and cars in various states of construction. The public is invited to bring a model of their own to work on, to get help with their models or even with getting started. Club members will also be bringing a selection of specialized modeling tools that will be available for use. The meeting is free and open to all ages; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Seating is limited, so those interested in attending are asked to register in advance. To register, call 910477-5151.

“In major cities, there are clubs like this,” Wilmington resident and member of the Wilmington Plastic Modelers Club Jeff Maples said. “The hobby is actually very large.”

Those planning to attend a gathering only need to supply their own model to work on. Maples said model kits are available at local craft stores, and the museum sells model boat kits. However, he added, most of the materials are now purchased online.

“Clubs usually form around hobby

stores,” Maples said. But with much of the supplies transitioning from storefront to websites, that natural meeting location is lost. That’s one of the reasons for promoting the group aspect of the club and the museum gathering — the latter of which Moseley plans to continue on a monthly basis.

Maples emphasized the new program is for all skill levels, from the hobbyist to the master builder and everyone in between. And despite the club’s name, it’s not lim-

ited to plastic models — models in any type of material and genre are welcome.

“To us, that’s all that really counts,” Maples said. “We just want anyone and everyone who just wants to build a model.”

For more information about the meeting or to reserve a seat, call 910-477-5151 or visit ncmaritimemuseumsouthport. com.

It’s Nature Fest Time Southport Event Celebrates Outdoors

STORY BY JEFFREY STITES

Whiledriving west on N.C. 211, have you ever wondered what it’s like way back in the Green Swamp Wilderness? Do you know how oyster beds can form the base of a heathy ecosystem? Do you want to show the world just how well we live with wildlife in our communities? The 2023 Southport NatureFest, running from April 25-29, offers all these opportunities and more! We have the schedule below, so find your opportunity to learn more about our local flora, fauna and wildlife. Some events require registration, as noted, and the links will be going live at about our press time, so visit facebook.com/southportnaturefest to sign up!

Tuesday, April 25

NatureFest Series Lecture at 7 pm Location: Indian Trail Meeting Hall, 113 W. Moore St.

Oysters are often simply considered as food, but they are also a valuable part of the marine ecosystem. Oysters remove harmful pollutants, sediment, and excess algae from the water while also providing reef habitats for fish. Learn about the St. James “Living Shoreline” project at Waterway Park from J. Taylor Ryan, the project leader and founder. This living shoreline of oysters is a multi-generational Citizen Scientist Community Conservation program maintained in conjunction with the UNCW’s Center for Marine Science (Benthic Ecology Lab). The Living Shoreline project has been highly successful using bagged oyster shells and marsh grasses to prevent erosion, reduce boat wake damage, and restore habitat for marine life while enhancing oyster habitat.

Thursday, April 27

City Nature Challenge Activity at 4 pm

Location: Indian Trail Meeting Hall, 113 W. Moore St.

Kind of a scavenger hunt, friendly competition, and nature outing all in one. Learn about the International City Nature Challenge, a friendly competition to document local nature with your cell phone between the dates of April 28 and May 1. Bald Head Island Conservancy Educator Jennifer Wiggen will explain the City Nature Challenge and how to use an app called iNaturalist. After instruction, there will be a group walk to demonstrate how to participate in the City Nature Challenge. Registration required.

Friday, April 28

Green Swamp walking tour with Dr. Roger Shew at 8:30 am

Location: Green Swamp Preserve, Green Swamp Road NW

Learn about a truly unique landscape, the Brunswick County Green Swamp Preserve. Dr. Roger Shew will lead a group on a walking tour in this longleaf pine ecosystem. Besides the beautiful longleaf savannah, there will be opportunities to see native carnivorous plants. Registration required.

City of Southport Arbor Day celebration at 12 pm

Location: Taylor Field Park, 409 E. Nash Street

The Southport Forestry Committee hosts the annual

City of Southport Arbor Day celebration at noon. Dr. Roger Shew will be Arbor Day’s guest speaker. No Registration required.

Coastal birds lecture by NC Audubon Biologist Dr. Lindsay Addision at 5 pm

Location: Trinity United Methodist Church Murrow Hall, 209 E. Nash St.

Audubon Biologist Lindsay Addision will lecture on the variety of coastal birds in

our area. No registration required.

Saturday, April 29

Environmental non-profits information and exhibit booths at 8:30 am until 12:30 pm

Location: Taylor Field Park, 409 E. Nash St. Free activities include Lowe-White Park Pollinator Garden tours, the Ft. Fisher Aquarium ambassador animal reptile exhibit, and Co-existing with Wildlife presentations.

Participating nonprofits: Brunswick County Master Gardeners, Plastic Ocean Project, Bald Head Island Conservancy, NC Coastal Land Trust, Cape Fear Bird Observatory, Ft. Fisher Aquarium, Southport Beautification Comm, Going Green Publications, Southport Garden Club, Southport Forestry Comm, Trinity UMC Creation Care Team, and NC Island Wildlife

Cool & Fancy Gala

Up Your Arts Fundraiser At Jetport

CONTRIBUTED

Tickets are now on sale for Up Your Arts’ 2nd Annual Cool & Fancy Gala at the Cape Fear Regional Jetport from 4-7 pm on Saturday, April 22. Come dance to the fabulous sounds of 2023 Maggie Award winning band LunaSea and relax with beer, wine, delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts from Middle of the Island Catering in Hanger #70E on Beach Road near the old terminal location off Long Beach Road.

Individual $75 tickets can be purchased with a credit card online at https://www.upyourarts.org/southport-art-spaces/uya_cf_gala/2023-gala/.

Tickets will also be available using cash or check at five retail outlets in Southport starting March 8: Ricky Evans Gallery, the Wine Rack, Artisans Gallery on Howe, Franklin Square Gallery, and Uncorked By the Sea. Spon-

sorships with a variety of benefits are available by contacting info@upyourarts.org.

The winners of the “Raise Up Your Arts” pole banner project will be showcased during the gala, along with their banners, seen for the first time in public before they are installed on utility poles in Southport’s business district from May-November this year. Many thanks to the City of Southport

and Downtown Southport, Inc., for ensuring the success of this inaugural event.

Individual pieces of the banner winners’ artwork will be offered for sale during the gala’s live auction. An abundance of silent auction items are planned, as well, bringing within gala goers’ easy reach the delights of everything from a six-seater plane flight over the Cape Fear River to live musical performances at a private party.

Broussard

Stidham

Sparks

Kronenwetter

Earman Karen Saunders Alma Bouchard

LeFevre Joe LeFevre Morgan Qunn

Verilyn McKee

Smith

Quinn

Hufham

Russ Pamela Frandano

Fiss David Thorp

CIS Thrift Store Open

Finding Treasures and Supporting Schools

STORY CONTRIBUTED

Head into Boiling Spring Lakes on George II Highway and you will see a series of small businesses dotting the landscape. These are the lifeblood of this small rural community, adjacent to Southport. Hidden among them is the CIS Thrift Shop at 3000 George II Highway, next to the former Newbridge Bank building, currently being remodeled to house the Boiling Spring Lakes Police Department.

The thrift shop has been in operation at this location since 2010, however during COVID the shop struggled to maintain staffing so the store could stay open consistently. Today, the shop is once again fully open and ready to serve Boiling Spring Lakes residents and those from surrounding communities. Executive Director Bonnie Jordan is proud of the shop and its staff for creating a wonderful shopping environment. “The CIS Thrift Shop managers, staff, and volunteers are a dedicated

team and take great pride in how the shop is presented to the community. They strive to provide a friendly, fun, and relaxing atmosphere that provides high quality, gently used items at affordable prices. Our team truly enjoys meeting and getting to know both residents and visitors alike,” she said.

When you step into the shop the first things you will notice is how neat, organized, and clean the shop is, along with the quality and variety of merchandise. Friend-

ly staff and volunteers are on hand to greet you and help you find that special item you are seeking. Selections include clothing for both children and adults; toys; books; housewares; linens; holiday items; special occasion dresses and accessories; jewelry; purses; and even furniture. All are reasonably priced and are new or gently used. Dressing rooms are provided, and periodic sales are offered to keep customers coming back in search of bargains.

CIS utilizes a number of volunteers who

love spending time supporting the thrift shop. Volunteer Steve Pettit said, “I enjoy repairing and repurposing items that can have a second life rather than a trip to the landfill, plus I love that my time volunteering here benefits the local schools.” The shop operates with limited staff so local volunteers work alongside of paid staff to help receive donations and prepare them for the sales floor, create floor displays, provide customer service, keep the sales floor neat and tidy, and assist with special projects. Staff and volunteers share a commitment to raising funds to help support dropout prevention programming for students who attend Brunswick County Schools. Funds raised at the shop are utilized to support and sustain programming at nine local elementary and middle schools, currently serving 500 students.

In addition to periodic sales, regular shoppers can receive a Frequent Shopper card and earn a stamp for every $10 spent in any of the CIS thrift shops. Once the card is filled with stamps, the shopper can redeem it for $10 off the next purchase. The card is good at any of the four CIS thrift shops, located in Boiling Spring Lakes, Southport, Sunset Beach, and Leland. Community members can visit the CIS website www.cisbrunswick.org for shop addresses and like and follow the Facebook page “CIS Thrift Shops at Boiling Spring Lakes, Leland, Southport, & Sunset Beach” to see upcoming sales and new arrivals at the shops. All shops are open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Donations are accept-

ed Monday through Friday at each shop. Volunteer applications and more information is available by stopping in or calling any of the CIS thrift shops. As Boiling Spring Lakes continues to recover from COVID and gets ready to rebuild its lakes, the CIS Thrift Shop is rebuilding as well and welcomes everyone to stop in, say hello, and check out what it has to offer. They look forward to seeing and serving you soon! The CIS Thrift Shop is a proud member of the Boiling Spring Lakes business community and proud to also serve Boiling Spring Lakes students through the CIS Action for Success Program at South Brunswick Middle School, one of the CIS dropout prevention program sites.

Safe Plates Classes

Food Safety For Pros & Communty Chefs

In person classes are back! NC Cooperative Extension in Brunswick County is offering the Safe Plates Food Safety Manager Class in person this spring, and also a special food safety course for community volunteers who prepare meals for large groups of people.

The Safe Plates comprehensive course is appropriate for food service managers and supervisory staff in restaurants, hospitals, nursing homes, childcare facilities, and other food-handling establishments.

The class will be held two days, Monday, April 24 and Monday, May 1 from 9 am until 4 pm each day. The classes will meet at the NC Cooperative Extension Training Center, 25 Referendum Drive, at the Government Center in Bolivia. The registration fee is $125 per person. This includes all instruction, materials and the certification exam. Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch, snacks, and beverages.

Certification is provided by the National

Registry of Food Safety Professionals and is based on successful completion of the course and passing a written examination. Virtual training is also available. Those taking the virtual class can take the Certification Test on May 1 at 2:30 pm.

Check the NC Cooperative Extension, Brunswick County Center website for more details or contact Brunswick County Center of the N.C. Cooperative Extension, 910-253-2610. Checks should be made out to Brunswick County Cooperative Extension and mailed to PO Box 109, Bolivia, NC 28422. Pre-registration is required. Seating is limited to the first 30 registered.

Community Meals Class

Many community groups, volunteer organizations and churches plan big food events such as fundraising dinners, bake sales, fish fries or potluck lunches. Often these events are staffed by volunteers relying on cooking skills they use at home to prepare food for several hundred people. That’s not a good idea. Professional chefs and food service workers know the secrets for safely cooking foods in large quantities. Now, non-professionals can know them, too.

A Food Safety Workshop for Community Meal Events is planned for Thursday, April 20, for the people who volunteer at events where food is cooked and served to a crowd. The workshop will be held from 11 am until 2 pm at the Brunswick County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension, Building N at the Government Complex in Bolivia.

The registration fee is $10 per person. Each participant will receive educational material, a digital thermometer and a light lunch. This program is being partially funded by the Mary Russ Family and Consumer Science Endowment at NC State. The fee can be paid the day of the workshop, but pre-registration is required and limited to

the first 40 people. For more information or to register go the NC Cooperative Extension Brunswick County Center’s website at https://brunswick.ces.ncsu.edu/ or by calling 910-253-2610.

Devil In The Details

Deviled Eggs Are A Southern Staple

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DAVIS, OWNER/CHEF OF SOUTHERN, A GATHERING PLACE, SOUTHPORT

My husband loves a holiday, or any time when the beloved white and yellow delicacy shows up on our table. The deviled egg…something about it just screams “special occasion.” Easter is typically the time of year when deviled eggs start showing up at potlucks and parties across the South. In our house, we start a little earlier in the year- like Super Bowl Sunday, Carolina basketball Thursday, March Madness Monday, Masters Sunday… you get the picture. We love a reason to celebrate, and deviled eggs are on the menu!

Deviled eggs seem simple when you eat them, but they most certainly are not. Making them requires a perfectly cooked AND peeled egg, one that does not have that grayish ring around the yolk (sometimes this can be the hardest part). Once the eggs are perfectly cooked, peeled, and sliced, each yolk must be removed with such finesse that the white remains in pristine condition for filling. Then the fill-

ing is made-typically with mayo, a dab of mustard, a pinch of sugar, possibly some pickle relish, and little salt and pepper. Carefully it is piped or spooned back into the cooked egg white and garnished with a dash of paprika. My point is, there are a lot of tedious steps that are required to make these little luxurious gems. So, the next time you eat one, make sure to hug the cook!

When did deviled eggs start making an appearance in history? Truthfully, I have always thought they were a Southern tradition because we, as southerners, like to put mayonnaise and a pinch of sugar in just about everything. After doing some research, I discovered I was wrong.

Deviled eggs first showed up on tables of the wealthy in ancient Rome. The Romans served boiled eggs with a spicy

sauce as an appetizer. In Spain during the 13th century, they began stuffing eggs with spices, juice from onions, and a sauce from fish (somewhat resembling mayo), putting the halves back together with a pick and topping them with a pepper. Stuffed eggs became popular in Europe during the 15th century when they were filled with raisins, cheese, and herbs. The name “deviled” comes from Great Britain, in culinary terms meaning heavily spiced, hot, fried or broiled. The deviled egg as we know it, using mayonnaise as a binder, began when Fannie Farmer’s “Boston Cooking-School Cookbook” was published in 1896. When the Great Depression ended, deviled eggs became very popular in the 1940s United States. By 1945 about 85 percent of homes had refrigeration, and the deviled egg made its way to everyone’s parties and celebrations. Not much has changed since then as far as the allure of the deviled egg. It’s

the one appetizer you can serve at a party that will most certainly be the first thing to disappear. Although the classic recipe remains a favorite to many, chefs and cooks alike have added just about everything under the sun to them to create different and exciting flavor profiles. The possibilities are quite endless.

When my husband and I were first dat-

ing, I told him that I was going to make deviled eggs for a gathering we were having. He was so excited. At this point he really wasn’t fully aware of my need and desire to take the dishes I make to the next level. In other words, I did not make the deviled eggs of his childhood that he held in such high regard. In fact, he turned his nose up when I presented the platter with the crowned jewels. Each had a piece of crispy bacon and a sprig of fresh dill perfectly arranged on top. I also added fresh diced heirloom tomatoes and pickled jalapenos to my filling, but he was not impressed. My eggs were just not his idea of the egg that his grandmother made that he loved so much. After a little convincing, he took a bite. It is now his favorite flavor in my ‘fancy’ deviled egg collection. This spring, when you are planning your Easter dinner, picnic, or potluck, be creative. Eggs are a blank canvas. Anything you can dream of is quite possible and your guests will be impressed. I am providing the method that I use to boil my eggs (which will not have the gray halo around the yolk), a basic deviled egg recipe that you can build on, as well as a small but definitely not an exhaustive list of possible ingredient additions.

Egg Additions

Anything pickled

Spring onions

Fresh herbs, especially chives and dill

Bacon

Crab

Horseradish Peppers

Tomatoes

Avocado

Onion

Jalapeno

Pimento cheese

Goat cheese

Blue cheese

Salsa

Finding Flavor

The Basic Hard-Boiled Egg

Place eggs in a pot and cover with 1 inch of water

On high, bring eggs to a boil and boil for 2 minutes

Remove pot from heat and cover for 10 minutes

In a large bowl make an ice bath for the eggs, after they sit covered in the pot, carefully place each one in the ice bath (this will stop them from cooking and forming the gray ring around the yolk)

Wait 3-5 minutes and peel the eggs

(I find the longer the eggs sit after cooking the harder they are to easily peel, so peel them as soon as they are ready for best results)

Classic Deviled Eggs

6 eggs (prepared per Basic Hard-Boiled Egg recipe)

2 Tablespoons mayo (I prefer Dukes)

1 ½ Tablespoons sweet pickle relish or a pinch or two of sugar to taste

½ teaspoon yellow mustard

1/8 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)

Dash of pepper

Garnish with paprika

Peel hard boiled eggs under running water. Carefully slice each one lengthwise, wiping off your knife in between each egg to prevent yolk from getting on the egg white. In a medium sized bowl remove yolks and mix with remaining ingredients except paprika. You may need to add a little more mayo or mustard depending on the size of eggs you are using. Spoon or pipe filling back into the egg whites and garnish with a dash of paprika.

Beach Haven Designs

Spring Festival

Enjoy Craft and Food Vendors Under The Oaks In Franklin Square Park

The Southport Spring Festival, an annual tradition for almost three decades, will kick-off Easter Weekend on Friday, April 7, at 10 am in Franklin Square Park at the corner of Howe and East West Streets in downtown Southport. The festival continues Saturday, April 8 from 10 am - 4 pm.

More than 160 vendors showcasing handmade arts and crafts will be featured, along with musical entertainment, children’s activities, a flower/plant sale, and popular food vendors. There will even be a trackless train for extra fun. Admission is free. The event is sponsored by Downtown Southport Inc, the Southport-Oak Island Kiwanis Club, and the City of Southport. For more information, visit DowntownSouthport.org.

Fourth of July Festival Committee Gearing Up For 2023 Event

CONTRIBUTED

Planning for the official State of North Carolina Fourth of July Festival is underway and event organizers are seeking sponsors to help fund the annual event, which draws nearly 50,000 visitors to the region each year. This year’s festival boasts a full schedule of events, including a variety of new additions to the festival’s calendar.

Now in its 228th year, the 2023 festival starts June 30 and ends July 4 with a fireworks display overlooking the Cape Fear River on Southport’s waterfront. Other activities include a firefighter’s competition, nightly live entertainment, children’s games, arts and crafts, freedom flotilla, parade, Naturalization Ceremony, great food, and so much more. Additionally, the Town of Oak Island will host Beach Day, which will feature a corn hole tournament, bocce ball, volleyball and

skate competitions, shag dance contest, and an evening concert with a live band and dancing. Oak Island Beach Day, on July 1, commemorates the merger of the Towns of Yaupon Beach and Long Beach into what is now The Town of Oak Island. The Town of Oak Island, as part of its anniversary celebration, concludes Beach Day with a fireworks celebration. Be sure to check out the schedule of events online as new things are being posted as more details become finalized.

For local businesses, the festival is a great opportunity to advertise to the 50,000-plus visitors and show support for the community. Sponsorship packages range from Eagle Sponsor to a Sparkler. Sponsorship packages are designed so that everyone can participate in helping the festival continue to provide an amazing Independence Day celebration. For participating merchants, the exposure is well worth the sponsorship investment. In addi-

tion to publicity before, during, and after the festival, some of the packages include VIP packages, signage on the festival grounds, and print ad recognition.

“The 2023 festival is already shaping up to be a fun-filled event that promises to bring in thousands of visitors to the area, but we can’t do it without community support,” said Randy Jones, chair of the North Carolina Fourth of July Festival. “Sponsors are vital to the ongoing success of the Festival.”

Visit the Festival’s website at www. nc4thofjuly.com/sponsorships, email the Festival at nc4thofjulyfestival@ gmail.com or contact the Sponsorship Chair Person, Brett McKeithen at 910457-5578 and become a sponsor today.

Dr. Dana Point and Dr. Kaitlin Ridder

Student Art Winners

Franklin Square Gallery Hosts Works

STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Franklin Square Gallery hosts the Brunswick County High Schools’ Art Contest until April 6. The community, especially including the students’ friends and families, are invited to view the art from 10 to 5, Monday through Saturday. All the County high schools’ entries are on display. This year’s judge, Katy O’Neill, is a retired County art teacher, having taught at Southport Elementary School and South Brunswick High School. Ribbons indicate those receiving awards.

Oak Island Parking

New Paid System Begins Saturday April 1

STORY BY JEFFREY STITES

Oneof the biggest changes for beach-goers in the Town of Oak Island begins April 1 with the advent of the town’s new paid parking program. It’s a big change and carries with it many details, but long story short, parking in beach areas will be restricted from the beginning of April through September from 9 am - 5 pm to spots marked with a parking bumper, and vehicles will require some form of paid permit to park. The absolute best place to find information on Oak Island’s paid parking is the town’s website www.OakIslandNC.gov/PARKING. Rumors and very bad information abound on social media sites, particularly various “locals” pages, so beware of relying on these for accurate information. Below we’ve included the most recent (as of press time) communication from the Town of Oak Island as well as information from the website pertaining to resident and property owner passes, hopefully explaining everything about the new parking situation.

The Town of Oak Island currently provides more than 1,250 parking spaces across 65 public Beach Access Locations, more than any other island community in the Carolinas! To help with the improvement and future maintenance of these

spaces, as well as to reduce congestion from unregulated Right-Of-Way (ROW) parking, the Town Council voted in January 2023 to initiate a Paid Parking program that would be enforced throughout the busier spring and summer months. This program is managed by the contracted vendor, Otto Connect through its proprietary SurfCAST application.

Beginning on Saturday, April 1, 2023, the Town of Oak Island will begin enforcement for the first season of the town’s new Paid Parking program. Please note, full details on the program, including payment options, permit descriptions, citation fines, parking maps, and frequently asked questions (FAQ) are available on the Parking Information page of the Town Website at www. OakIslandNC.gov/ PARKING.   THE PAID PARKING PROGRAM: •Will be enforced

from April 1 – September 30, between the hours of 9 am – 5 pm (all other dates and times will not be paid parking)

•Will provide Parking Permits in increments of $5 / Hour • $20 / Day • $80 / Week, which become active immediately upon purchase (NOTE: the limited number of available Seasonal Permits have already been sold for the 2023 season)

•Has the following purchase options for Parking Permits:

1.ON SITE: Scan the QR code on the “Pay To Park” signs or visit surfcast.ottoconnect.us/pay

2.MOBILE: Download the SurfCAST mobile app, and follow the prompts provided

3.BY PHONE: Call the Otto Connect team at 910-200-1497

•Will apply to all marked parking spaces in the beachfront areas south of the Davis Canal (WEST of SE 40th St.) and E. Oak

Island Drive (EAST of SE 40th St.)

•Does not allow for parking in spaces marked with “Town Parking” signage (for more information, click on the “Town Parking Permit” tab at www.OakIslandNC.gov/PARKING)

•Restricts parking in any spaces not marked by a parking bumper or any Right-Of-Way areas in the Paid Parking Zone during the enforcement times (REMEMBER: NO BUMPER = NO PARKING)

WHEN & WHERE PARKING WILL NOT BE CHARGED:

•During any time not specifically listed in the enforcement season of April 1 –September 30, between 9 am – 5 pm

•For any vehicles parked in handicap spaces, which have an appropriate license plate, placard, or hangtag (NOTE: vehicles in marked Paid or Town parking spac-

The map above shows areas of the Town of Oak Island where paid parking will be in effect

es will still require a Paid or Town Parking Permit)

•In the immediate area surrounding Town sponsored or approved events, for the duration of the event, such as the Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market in the Middleton Park Complex

•For residents and property owners whose vehicles have been registered with a Town Parking Permit (for more information, click on the “Town Parking Permit” tab at www.OakIslandNC.gov/PARKING)

Full details on the Paid Parking program can be found on the Parking Information page of the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/PARKING. For all questions related to purchasing a Paid Permit, including use of the SurfCAST app and SurfCAST website, contact the parking vendor Otto Connect at 910-200-1497 or by email at www.surfcast.us/contact-us.

Town Parking Permits

Town Parking Permits are available exclusively for Town residents and property owners, and allow for parking in specially marked Town Parking spaces, as well as regular Paid Parking spaces.

PLEASE NOTE:

•Residents & property owners are allowed up to three (3) Town Parking Per-

mits per property owned.

•Verification is provided through the property’s Water Utilities Account Number. Residents of larger apartment complexes, condos, or owners of undeveloped property without utility service, will need to contact their property manager or Otto Connect directly to be issued a unique customer code, which can be used instead of the utilities account number.

•Town Parking Permits can be purchased at any time throughout the year, and are not limited to a specific purchase option or time.

PURCHASE OPTIONS

There are three (3) purchase options for Town Parking Permits:

1.IN PERSON: Beginning on April 3 from 9 am - 4 pm on weekdays, Otto Connect employees will be staffed in the first-floor lobby of the Oak Island Town Hall, located at 4601 E. Oak Island Drive.

2.BY PHONE: Permits can be purchased by phone at 910-200-1497 from 9 am - 5 pm

3.ONLINE: Download the SurfCAST by Otto Connect app; which is available for Android and Apple products, OR visit the SurfCAST website.

Southport History

Newly Discovered Signs Up For Auction

STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Southport is well known for its role in America’s history. To help tell this story, the Southport Historical Society has long provided the community with a walking tour collection of historical markers. Each marker details an important Southport historical event or location. A few years ago, the Historical Society installed new markers, and the vintage markers they replaced were put into storage.

Recently, volunteers discovered the stored markers. Recognizing their historical and sentimental significance, volunteers prepared them for display by creating custom wooden frames. Over the next several months, the markers will be on tour at various locations throughout Southport. From May 31 to June 24, 2023, the Southport Historical Society will hold an online auction at  https://shsnc.travelpledgeauctions.com/Eventto help each marker find its permanent home.

The markers up for auction can be found at the following locations:

Ricky Evans Gallery

Church and State

Harper Library - Southport

Lord Street: Houses of the Lord

Ports of Call Bistro

Franklin Square Park: The Oak Grove

Southport Realty

C.B. Caroon Company

Franklin Square Gallery

Franklin Square Park: The Oak Grove

The Brunswick Center at Southport Southport Shrimping Industry

Southport Town Hall - Finance department

CSS North Carolina

Fort Johnston Museum and Visitor Center

TM Thompson

• Replace engine oil with synthetic blend

• Replace oil filter and drain plug washer with Acura Genuine Parts

• Check/Adjust fluid levels

• Inspect wiper blades

• Inspect tires and set pressure.

Upto5quarts,syntheticoilextra,taxesand environmentalfeesareextra.

BATTERY

Grant’s Turning Point

Brunswick Civil War Round Table Meets

STORY CONTRIBUTED

Gen.

Ulysses S. Grant was the most acclaimed Union general during the Civil War. He earned his nickname, “Unconditional Surrender Grant,” after capturing Fort Donelson in 1862, where his only surrender negotiation was an “Unconditional and immediate Surrender.” This determination and arrogance led to additional victories at Shiloh, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga, and defeated Gen. Lee in the Overland Campaign, Petersburg, and Appomattox. His popularity enabled him to become elected for two terms as the 18th President of the United States.

During Grant’s illustrious career, there was a turning point which will be discussed at the April 4 meeting of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table, when popular guest speaker Chris Mackowski will present “Grant’s Next Chapter: Vicksburg, Chattanooga, and the Rise of U.S. Grant.” The meeting will be held at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Everyone is welcome. Registration begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. The visitor fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues.

The Vicksburg Campaign was a series of maneuvers and battles directed against Vicksburg, Mississippi, a fortress city that dominated the last Confederate-controlled section of the Mississippi River. After a 47-day siege, Confederate troops surrendered to

Grant under his demanding terms on July 4, 1863. As President Lincoln once proclaimed, “Vicksburg is the key! The war can never be brought to a close until that key is in our pocket.” With the siege at Vicksburg, and a Union victory at Port Hudson, the Union controlled the entire Mississippi River, the primary conduit for Union supplies and communications. It split the Confederates in half, and led to Grant’s continued command in eastern Tennessee, and his eventual appointment as general-in-chief of the Union armies.

In October, 1863, Grant was given command of all Union forces in the west. After he secured the vital “Cracker Line” to feed his starving army, he turned his forces toward Chattanooga, Tennessee. The three-day battle resulted in one of the most dramatic turnabouts in American military history, and a turning point in the war, opening up the Deep South for a Union invasion. This victory drove Confederate troops into Georgia, clearing the way for Union General William T. Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign and March to the Sea. In essence, Grant finished one volume of his memoirs with the aftermath of Vicksburg, and opened the second volume with the Battle of Chattanooga, marking a major turning point of his incredible career.

Chris is a Ph.D., the editor-in-chief and co-founder of Emerging Civil War, and the series editor of the award-winning Emerging Civil War Series. He is historian-in-residence at Stevenson Ridge, a historic property on the Spot-

sylvania battlefield in central Virginia. He has worked as historian for the National Park Service at Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park. Chris has authored or co-authored nearly two dozen books, and edited a half-dozen essay collections on the Civil War, and his articles have appeared in all the major Civil War magazines. He also serves as vice president on the board of directors for the Central Vir-

ginia Battlefields Trust, serves on the advisory board of the Civil War Roundtable Congress and our own Brunswick Civil War Round Table. For more information about the meeting, becoming a member, or volunteering for this non-profit organization of over 1,100 members, please contact president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com, or call him at 404229-9425. Or, visit the Facebook page or website, Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com for additional information, news, and updates.

An evening with Michael Allen Harrison & Uncorked by the Sea

Featuring Oregon, the next Napa of the Wine world!

Date: Friday May 12th 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Location: LaPolena B&B gardens

Tickets: $45/pp includes sparkling wine upon arrival, tasting four wines and a glass of your preferred tasting.

To reserve your space: email hollyuncorked@gmail

ART BEAT

Capturing Urban Art

Linda Flynn Finds Subjects In Everyday Life

STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

Sketching on location is popular with artists from around the globe. Urban Artists carry a sketch pad, paints, and pencils onsite to visually record events, vacations, or any moment in their lives that inspires them. Familiar tourist places, beautiful outside gardens, restaurants, and live music venues are popular locations for Urban Sketching. This allows the artist to capture the people, places, and things surrounding them. Pictures are usually small, so the artist can carry them in a small sketchbook.

With each sketch taking less than an hour to create, Wilmington artist Linda Flynn enjoys creating memories when she goes out. “As an Urban Sketcher, I always have my sketchbook and drawing/painting supplies with me. My husband and I love music, especially live music. So naturally, I began sketching all the great musicians we went out to see,” she said. “We travel frequently for art festivals. I have a travel sketchbook which I love. I fill it to the brim with all the different places we go. We use a travel trailer when traveling, and I have a habit of sketching the

trailer in every campground we stay in. At the end of the year, I make a calendar of all the sketches.”

Originally from New England, Linda has always been an artist graduating from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in art. After working as an Electronic Technician in research and development and raising her family, she continued to make art and continues to develop her artistic techniques. She is now a full-time artist selling her work in shops and traveling to art shows with her husband. “I started painting and drawing when I was about 12 years old. My parents were very supportive and sent me to different art classes throughout the years,” she said. “I grew up in Rhode Island, went to college in New Hampshire, and lived in many different places both in New England and the Pacific North West. Finally, I settled back down in New England to raise a family. My husband retired and we moved to

a warmer climate. I picked the Wilmington area because of the proximity to the ocean and the vibrant art scene,” she said. “I also worked for many years as a graphic artist in the screen-printing industry.”

An artist at heart, Linda is interested in many forms of art. However, watercolor and alcohol ink are her favorite me-

diums. During the past year, she has also been creating stained glass pieces, and she loves the intensity the glass gives.

Linda is mostly a plein air artist painting outside in nature, but she will use a photo as needed. “The sketches begin with pencil, then progress into pen work. Then the color is added last,” said Linda. “The most challenging aspect of drawing people live is the fact they hardly ever sit still. Especially drawing musicians. They are always moving and bopping around! So sometimes I snap a photo to get the position of the head or arm correct.”

Painting live outside is a much different experience for an artist who would only be working inside a studio. The

atmosphere is different regarding natural lighting, and the overall experience is more fluid. “Drawing and painting from real life is about experiencing the time and place immediately. Feeling the wind and the sun and watching the shadows move all become part of each painting,” she said.

Working out of her home in Wilmington, Linda also imprints her work onto functional home decor products such as trivets, coasters, mouse pads, coin purses, and ornaments. You can reach Linda by email

at Lindamflynn@yahoo.com or through her website, www.LindaFlynnArt.com. Also, visit her Blue Moon Gift Stores shop, 203 Racine Dr, Wilmington.

Charity Benefit Show

Nashville Trio Comes To Southport

STORY CONTRIBUTED

TheNashville Trio is coming to Southport for a two-night benefit concert, Friday, April 14 and Saturday April 15. The all-female trio brings an eclectic mix of country, rock and blues to the stage. Their high-powered performance will benefit Brunswick Partnership for Housing and Paws-Ability. The event, held at the St. James Community Center, 3146 Southport-Supply Road, is from 7-9 pm. Doors open at 6 pm. Tickets are $35 each and can be purchased using cash or check.

There are four ways to purchase tickets: In person:

•St. James Community Center, 4136 Southport-Supply Road, Thursday, Feb 23 from 10 am – noon

•Ruffin It Doggy Day Care, 925 Seaside Road NW, Ocean Isle Beach, Tuesday, Feb 28, 11 am – 1 p.m. Call or email:

•Liz Thompson, ethompso3144@ gmail.com, 715-498-4856

•Mary Galligan, marysgalligan17@gmail.com, 410-570-5495

Beer and wine will be available for purchase with a credit card or St. James member card (St. James residents only). Snacks are provided, and outside food may not be brought into the event. Please bring cash to participate in a 50/50 raffle and basket raffles.

To find out more about The Nashville Trio, Brunswick Partnership for Housing and Paws-Ability please visit their respective websites: megwilliamsmusic.com/trio, brunswickpartnership.org and paws-abili-

ty.org.

About Brunswick Partnership for Housing

Brunswick Partnership for Housing (BPH) is a nonprofit organization in Brunswick County addressing the needs of homeless families and individuals seeking housing and advocating for affordable housing. Established in 2019, BPH seeks to provide a stable living environment for those

seeking a permanent housing solution.

About Paws-Ability

Paws-Ability is an all-volunteer, non-profit, fundraising organization that works to improve animal welfare in Brunswick and New Hanover Counties and to enhance the animal-human bond.  Our funds support local rescues, spay/ neuter initiatives, assist pet guardians with veterinary bills in extraordinary circumstances, and provide pet food to local food pantries and Meals on Wheels recipients.

CALENDAR

April

We’ve included events here that are listed as scheduled, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change.

APRIL 1

Founders Day — Boiling Spring Lakes

It’s the City’s 62nd birthday, and a day of events is planned in celebration. Spring Lake Park will host a family fun run, carnival games and inflatables, a food truck rodeo, battle of the bands, and more. An Arts & Crafts Bazaar will be held adjacent to Muse Park. A disc golf tournament is also planned and a photography contest (view photos 1-4 pm at City Hall). Call 910-363-0018 for more details.

APRIL 1

Southport-Oak Island Kiwanis Plant Sale

Shop for plants and flowers, 10 am to 1 pm in the parking lot of the St. James Community Center.

Many landscape bushes, perennials, annuals, and herbs will be for sale, including the popular Encore Azaleas, which bloom twice a year. Pre-ordering (with delivery) is available by contacting Larry Trainor at ltrainor13@yahoo. com or 443-253-7145.

APRIL 1

Easter Egg Hunts — Southport, Oak Island

The hunt begins at 10 am at Oak Island’s Bill Smith Park, 4410 Fish Factory Road. Children will search by age groups; there is also a hunt for dogs! In Southport, the egg hunt starts at 10 am in Franklin Square Park for children ages 5-12, and immediately after, for children 4 and younger on the Garrison lawn.

APRIL 2

Oak Island Shell & Fossil Show

Fossil and shell exhibits are the star of this show, 11 am to 4 pm at Oak Island’s 801 Events Center, 801 Ocean Drive.

APRIL 2

The Cape Fear Chorale is celebrating its 25th season, and will perform music selections from past concerts, including works by Mozart, Brahms, Rachmaninoff, Undine S. Moore and more. Artistic Director Aaron Peisner will lead, and former director Jerry Cribbs will be honored with the title

Conductor Emeritus. The concert is 2 pm at Keenan Auditorium (515 Wagoner Drive) on the UNCW Campus; admission is free.

APRIL 4

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

Guest speaker Chris Mackowski will present “Grant’s Next Chapter: Vicksburg, Chattanooga, and the Rise of U.S. Grant.” The meeting will be held at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Registration begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. The visitor fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues.

APRIL 6

Operation Medicine Cabinet — Dosher Memorial Hospital

Drop off unused and expired medicine at the hospital entrance, 924 N. Howe Street in Southport, between 9 am and 6 pm.

APRIL 7-8

Southport Spring Festival

This annual festival celebrates all the best things of spring with a variety of activities, music, an open air market in Franklin Square Park and much more. The festival is 10 am to 5 on Friday and 10 a, to 4 pm on Saturday.

APRIL 8

Easter Litany Service — Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson

Friends of Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson present an Easter sunrise service at the ruins of St. Philips Church. The site will open at 6:15 am for the 6:45 am service, and then the sire will remain open until 5 pm. Donations are recommended, and seating is not provided, so bring your own chairs if needed. The state historic site is in Winnabow, off N.C. 133 (8884 St. Philip’s Road SE).

APRIL 8

Saturdays of Summer outdoor market

Pescado Y Amor will host outdoor markets throughout the season, featuring works from local artists and artisans. The market this day is noon to 3 pm at the store, 6018 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island.

APRIL 8

Easter Egg Hunt — Boiling Spring Lakes

It’s Boiling Spring Lakes’ turn to host the kiddos for an Easter Egg Hunt, beginning 10 am at Spring Lake Park, 210

Pine Road. The event runs until 1 pm, with pictures with the Easter bunny, face painting and more!

APRIL 8

Oak Island Beach Preservation Society’s Annual Wine Tasting and Auction

Join the Beach preservation Society for an afternoon of fine wines and tasty hors d’oeuvres from local vendors. The event, 2-5 pm at the 801 Ocean Events Center, also includes a silent auction. Tickets are $45; visit https://beachoki. org/.

APRIL 9

Sunrise Service with Sonrise Baptist

Join Sonrise Baptist Church at the Southport City Pier, Bay Street, for a sunrise service, 6:30 am.

APRIL 14

Earth Day Festival — Oak Island

Enjoy learning about how to protect and preserve our natural resources. Several conservation and non-profit groups will share information and have interactive stations. The festival runs from 10 am to noon and school groups are encouraged to attend. The fun happens at Oak Island’s Middleton Park fields, SE 46th St. and Dolphin Drive.

APRIL 14

Jazz & Swing Night at LCAC

Swing dancers take to the floor to music from Gin Fizz. Stop in at 6:30 for a dance lesson, and stay for the concert, which starts at 7 pm. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online or at the center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

APRIL 14

Blood Drive — hosted by Dosher Memorial Hospital

Dosher Memorial Hospital hosts the American Red Cross for a Blood Drive, 8:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Jaycees Building, 309 N. Fodale Avenue in Southport. Pre-registration is encouraged; visit www.redcrossblood.org to schedule a time.

APRIL 15

Community Baby Shower

Drop off new baby items for this community baby shower, to benefit families in need. Items may be dropped off via drive through at Novant Health Medical Center, 240 Hospital Drive, Bolivia, 9-11 am.

APRIL 18

Art History Lecture

This month’s lecture is Canvas to Canvas — Women in Art; it is pm at Franklin Square Gallery, 130 E. West St. The cost to participants is $15 per lecture, with a maximum of 20 people at each lecture. For more information and to register, visit franklinsquaregallery.com.

APRIL 22

2nd Annual Cool & Fancy Gala — Up Your Arts

This gala features dancing, with music from the LunaSeas, and munchies and desserts from Middle of the Island catering. The party happens 4-7 pm at the Cape Fear Regional Jetport, Hangar 70E (near the old Terminal, Long Beach Road). Tickets are $75 and are available online at https://www.upyourarts.org/southport-art-spaces/uya_cf_ gala/2023-gala/ and in a few area retailers (see story in this issue).

APRIL 22

Small Fry — Boiling Spring Lakes

This fishing tournament for children happens at Spring Lake Par, 210 Pine Road, 8:30-11:30 am. Visit https:// www.cityofbsl.org/event/small-fry-fishing-tournament-0 for more details as they become available.

APRIL 22

Living History: Tar, Pitch and Turpentine, Oh my! — Brunswick Town

History comes alive with demonstrations of the production of tar, pitch and turpentine.

Tar production will begin at approximately 11 am and another will begin at 1:30 pm. Pitch and turpentine production will be continued throughout the day. Visitors will get a chance to learn about the components of naval stores and their importance to the area. Admission is free; the Brunswick Town/ Fort Anderson state historic site is at 8884 St. Philip’s RD SE, WInnabow (off N.C. 133).

APRIL 25

The Cannon Thor, a History

Cannon crew members will discuss the history of Thor, Southport Historical Society’s very own cannon, which helps the city celebrate everything from birthdays to commemorative events. There will also be history on Thor’s predecessors. The discussion will be at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., starting at 10 am.

APRIL 25-29

Nature Fest — Southport

Enjoy lectures and outdoor events throughout this week of celebrating everything nature in Southport. See the story in this month’s issue for details on all the events!

APRIL 26

T.M. Thompson “The Man Who Knew no Fear”

Attorney, writer, and speaker Fred D. Taylor will present a talk on Blockade Runner Thomas Mann Thompson, Jr. The session is at 6:30 pm at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. This story profiles the life of Thomas Mann Thompson, Jr., of Southport, one of the Confederacy’s most successful blockade runner pilots, making more than 30 runs through the blockade while escaping capture. Famed Confederate Captain Michael P. Usina called Thompson “an officer who knew no fear.”

APRIL 28-30 ,MAY 12-14

Let’s Go to the Movies: A Live Musical Revue at the Historic Amuzu Theatre

Talented musicians and singers bring all our favorites from moves, starting with “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in 1939 and more recent classics from “Rent” and “Purple Rain.” You’ll hear selections from “West Side Story” and “The Sound of Music,” and much more. Tickets are available at Color Me Carolina on Long Beach Road and Ricky Evans Gallery on Howe Street in Southport. Show times are 7:30 pm Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 pm on Sundays; the theatre is at 111 N. Howe St.

APRIL 29

Kids Day in the Park — Franklin Square Park

Children can participate in arts events at Franklin Square Park, including clay art, spin art, origami, flowerpot painting, jewelry making and more, all assisted by member artists. There will be face painting, live music provided by The Lotus Collective Band, and hot dogs and drinks for purchase provided by the Trolley Stop. The event is 10 am to 2 pm at the Park, (Howe and E. West Streets).

APRIL 29

Rockin’ and Rollin’ To The Red, White and Blue Car Show

BEautiful classic and modern cars on display in Downtown Southport (the bottom of Howe, down Bay to Atlantic)

from 8:30 am - 3 pm. Over 80 trophies to be awardeed, music by the Back Porch Rockers

MAY 3

Summer Market — Southport

Southport’s open air market kicks off for the season — shop for local produce, baked goods, flowers and herbs, and arts and crafts. The market runs 9 am to 2 pm on Wednesdays through the summer in Franklin Square Park (Howe and E. West Streets).

Ongoing Events

Summer Market — Southport

Wednesdays through the season, Southport’s open air market boasts local produce, baked goods, flowers and herbs, and arts and crafts, all under majestic live oak trees. The market runs 9 am to 2 pm in Franklin Square Park (Howe and E. West Streets).

Friends of the Library Southport & Oak Island

The Libraries are open Monday through Friday, 9 am - 6 pm. The Barbee branch is also open 9 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. The Once More used bookstore, at Southport Realty (727 N. Howe St.), with new-to-you books, is open Monday through Friday from 1-3 pm and Saturdays 10 am to noon.

Barbee Library, 8200 E. Oak Island Drive: Call 910-278-4283 for details on children’s story time and other programs.

Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St, Southport: The Lifelong Learners program meets at Harper Library on Wednesdays, 10 am. Children’s story time is 10 am on Mondays.

NC Maritime MuseumsSouthport, 204 E. Moore St.

Hours are 10 am to 4 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays. Sensory Saturdays (low light and quiet time in the museum) are the first Saturday of the month, 10 am to noon. The Third Tuesday program, April 18, is “What Is There To Do When You Find an Old Indian Canoe?: Anti-Colonialism in Maritime Archaeology” (7-8 pm at the Southport Community Building; registration is required). Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs.

First Friday Gallery Walk — Southport

Stroll among the Southport galleries, stop in and say hello and browse among local artists’ works. The walk is

5-7 pm on the first Friday of the month. Bingo at the Elks Lodge

Bingo games on the second and fourth Tuesdays at the Lodge, 106 E Dolphin Drive, Oak Island. Games are open to the public; no one under 16 and no outside food or drinks allowed. Doors open to the public at 5:45 pm with games starting at 6:30pm. Snacks and drinks available for purchase (cash or checks only). Progressive Jackpot and winner take all coverall.

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road, Belville

Thursdays 2-5 pm, Fridays 11 am - 5 pm; Saturdays 10 am - 5 pm and Sundays from 10am to 4 pm. Fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River.

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site

8884 St. Philip’s Rd. SE, Winnabow

There is plenty to do and see outside, with historic ruins, great information on the site’s history, and some of the most beautiful riverfront property in the County. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Odell Williamson Auditorium at Brunswick Community College

150 College Road NW, Bolivia

March 3-4: The Best of Broadway: Ten Musical Revue

April 15 — The Kennedys

THE PUB OF SOUTHPORT

1513 N. Howe St., Suite 10

April 7 — Double Cherry Pie

April 8 — Krispee Biscuits

April 21 — David Condon

SEAHORSE EATS & DRINKS AT OCEAN CREST PIER

1409 E. Beach Drive, Oak Island

April 1 — Chris & Sandy

April 7 — The Cliff Wheeler Band

April 9 — Dos Eddies

April 20 — Garrett Wheeler

April 22 — Skyler

April 23 — Johnny White

April 26 — R&R

April 28 — Greg Rowles

American Fish Co

150 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport

April 1 — Charlene & the Bluegrass Charlatans

April 2 — Double Billed

April 7 — The Ford Project

April 8 — Whiplash

April 9 — Moxie & Flo

April 14 — Southport Johnny & The Bizness

April 15 — Rose Hill Resurrection: An Allman Brothers Tribute Band

April 16 — Rev & Co.

April 21 — Many Everythings

April 22 — Double Cherry Pie

April 23 — Rick Cannon Band

April 28 — Dave’s Not Home

April 29 — Little Big House

April 30 — Emily Eleton

May 5 — Rose Hill Resurrection: An Allman Brothers Tribute Band

May 6 — The Feebs

May 7 — R&R

La Polena 201 River Dr.

April 4 — Ken Schnedetz, 5:30-7:30 pm

April 20 — Guys Night Out, for men aged 21 and older, 5:30-7:30 pm

River Hotel of Southport

706 E. Moore St.

6-8 pm with food trucks on site

April 6 — Good Times Duo

April 13 — Double Cherry Pie

April 20 — Tyler Samuel

April 27 — Double Cherry Pie

Thank you!

Don’t see your event or location listed? Try as we might, we don’t catch everything, so to be sure to be included send your events to lisa@southportmag.com before the 20th of each month!

602 N. LORD STREET, SOUTHPORT

2 bed | 1 bath | $298,500 Adorable Southport Cottage On A Corner Lot in the heart of this unique and very special waterfront, historic town. Living in ‘’Southport Proper’’ gives you the ability to walk & bike to nearby waterfront, restaurants, parks, shops, boutiques, gardens, museums and the marina. This home has a family room, dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms and one bathroom. It would be a great opportunity for a ‘flip’ or to remodel it with your own small-town spin ! Southport is golf-cart friendly and offers you nearby access to the Cape Fear River, the Atlantic Ocean, shopping and dining. Southport, NC. is a true treasure of the South ! Southport has received several awards, including ‘’Happiest Seaside Towns in America’’ by Coastal Living Magazine & featured in movies such as ‘’Safe Haven’’ by Nicholas Sparks. This cottage was built in 1950 and sits on a really great corner lot. Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty, Inc., for more details, (910) 620-8962.

2586 BELLAMY DRIVE, SEA VIEW

3bed | 2 bath | $425,000. WATERFRONT COMMUNITY!! This AMAZING ‘’to-be-built’’ home is on a DOUBLE LOT and is near the dock & pier on the Intracoastal Waterway! A concrete pad underneath offers plenty of room for parking your boat, trailer, small camper, jet skis or vehicles under this piling home with porches on the front & back of the house to enjoy all of the natural views. The home has a vaulted ceiling line running through the open concept living & dining space. The kitchen will be built with white Shaker style soft-close style cabinetry and showcases a ‘coffee & wine’ bar area beside the pantry plus floating butcher block shelves secured with trendy industrial accents. Large vanities with double sinks enhance both bathrooms with a walk-in shower in the master bath. The pictures on the listing are an example of homes that the builder has completed in this area & includes an enclosed storage area and an outdoor shower. The Sabal Palm Cottage is located in the Sea View Community 3 miles from the Holden Beach Bridge where you can launch your boat from the NC Public Wildlife ramp, located centrally between Wilmington, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC. The Sea View Community has its own private gated dock on the ICW and a gated community pool, exclusive to homeowners. Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty, Inc., for more details, (910) 620-8962.

plan, hardwood floors throughout main living areas and master bedroom, kitchen with stainless steel appliances and solid surface countertops, beautiful trim work and more! Take advantage of this great opportunity so you can pick out all of your finishes and design your home from the start! Give us a call so you can begin building your dream home today. Call Sarah Smith, Southport Realty, Inc., (910) 443-8000 for more information.

4909 B-34 FISH FACTORY ROAD, $175,000. RARE Opportunity - 50’ Wet Slip. B-34. Safe Harbor Marina at South Harbour Village is a luxury full-service marina along the Intracoastal Waterway between Southport and Oak Island. The Marina boasts restaurants with live entertainment and a beautiful waterfront park nearby for dog walking and exercise. Electric, water, pump out, gas and diesel fuel, transient accommodations, and convenient access to the Atlantic Ocean.

N. CASWELL AVENUE, LOT 3 - SOUTHPORT

3 bed | 2.5 bath | listed at $594,900. Now is your chance to build your dream home on this great lot in the Historic town of Southport. This lot is being sold as a Lot/ Home package with home to be built by custom home builder; Wes Cross. Plan to include 3 bedrooms 2 1/2 baths, open floor

This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with a bonus room above the garage has been well maintained. The amazing backyard showcases an in-ground pool, a large screened porch, and a storage shed. Listed at $389,000 with Margaret Rudd & Assoc., Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Amy Lynn Boltz for details at 910-880-2696.

COVE. Beautiful 3 BR, 2 BA home, custom-built by a local cabinet maker so you know the details are something you’ll want to see for yourself!  The gourmet kitchen has an island with beautiful granite and lots of storage.  The open-concept floor plan has a vaulted ceiling and great flex space over the 2-car garage. There’s even a partially fenced yard for you to enjoy! Listed at $439,500 with Margaret Rudd & Assoc., Inc., Realtors Call Tami Knecht for details at 253-380-1527.

109 SE

Ocean Views! NEW CONSTRUCTION - to be completed in October 2023! This 5 BR, 4 1/2 BA home has innovative engineering and design. Its inverted, open floorplan offers relax luxury and the ocean views are amazing. Step into your backyard and walk to the beach on the community owned boardwalk with a gazebo. Or step outside to the large decks and dip your toes into the raised-deck swimming pool with ocean views. The home will feature high ceilings, custom cabinetry, upscale lighting and appliances, worry-free LVP/LVT flooring, an elevator & more. Listed at $1,599,999 with Margaret Rudd & Assoc., Inc., REALTORS®️ Call Ceilidh Creech at 910553-4073 for details..

VILLAGE Close to Oak Island, this spacious 4 BR, 2 ½ BA home has everything you are looking for! There is a one-car garage, a loft area on the second floor, and a wet bar. Nice yard and a covered deck. Close to the bridge to Oak Island and just a short drive to Southport. Listed at $390,000 with Margaret Rudd & Assoc., Inc., REALTORS. The sellers are even offering a $5,000 credit at closing for new carpet Call Karen Wirzulis at 910319-8592 for your showing appointment today!

2272 BROOKSTONE DRIVE, BOLIVIA, NC.

4998 ALAMANCE DRIVE SEASPRAY

74TH STREET.

4183 VANESSA DRIVE SOUTH HARBOUR

Find Something Sure To Please Everyone

MOORE STREET OYSTER BAR

110 E. Moore Street, Southport (910) 363-5115

Moore Street Oyster Bar is an oyster pub rooted in the traditions of coastal Southern cooking, epitomized by the seaside town of Southport.

M PROVISION COMPANY 130 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 910-457-0654

www.provisioncompany.com

Offering a la carte seafood sandwiches, conch fritters, steamed shrimp and more.

RUSTY HOOKS DOCKSIDE GRILL

4907 Fish Factory Rd Southport, (910) 477-6616

www.rustyhooksdockside.com

SEAFOOD SPECIALTY

M FISHY FISHY CAFE

106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport

910-457-1881

www.fishyfishycafe.com

A sophisticated take on the dockside seafood café, Fishy Fishy serves up plates like Buffalo shrimp, Cajun grouper bites, and Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.

M FRYING PAN

319 West Bay St., Southport

910-363-4382 -

Featuring homemade sweet potato biscuits and fried seafood, as well as other delicacies such as pan seared grouper.

M ISLAND WAY RESTAURANT

1407 E. Beach Dr., Oak Island

910-278-7770

www.islandwayres.com

Offering fine steaks, from filet mignon to flat iron, and fresh seafood, from lobster to crab cakes, with attentive service.

KOKO CABANA

705 Ocean Drive, Oak Island

(910) 933-6222

Open Tues - Sun. Seafood Specialties, Steaks, Sandwiches, Salads

MOJO’S ON THE HARBOR

16 Marina Way, Bald Head Island 910-457-7217

www.mojoontheharbor.com

Featuring Southern classics :fried pickles, shellfish steam pots to global dishes like Italian meat antipasto and Mediterraneans shrimp and grits.

Fun dining featuring fresh local seafood and generational recipes, guaranteed to leave a lasting smile on your face. Come join our small piece of paradise along the coast of Carolina; our team looks forward to greeting you. We welcome boaters to pull up to our docks or contact the Marina Dockmaster on Channel 16, and all others to come down Fish Factory Road and join us for a relaxing meal with a gorgeous view!

SWAIN SEAFOOD SHACK

5119 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, Phone: (910) 448-5056

Good food for good people. Locally caught seafood, homemade soups and salad bar.

THE PIRATES DECK

5827 E. Oak Island Dr, Oak Island 910-933-4615

A great local hangout . Everything from Nachos to burgers, to seafood to steaks. Great Bar. RE-OPENING SOON!

MODERN AMERICAN

BACK TO SHUCKERS

6220 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island

910-278-4944

Casual dining in a tropical setting, with Caribbean inspired seafood as well as steaks, chicken, pork and salads. (Opening in May)

EDGEWATER 122

122 Yacht Basin Dr. Southport, (910) 677-6130

Locally Sourced, Hand Crafted Food and Drink served waterfront at the Old Yacht Basin.

OLIVER’S ON THE CAPE FEAR

101 West Bay Street, Southport

910-477-9299

oliversonthecapefear.com

Fine dining on the Cape Fear—where exquisite southern cuisine meets the salubrious dishes. We also offer great burgers, steaks, and other southern favorites.

MR. P’S BISTRO

309 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-0801

www.mrpsbistro.com

Fine low-country cuisine, from crab-stuffed fish du jour to crab cakes and prime rib.

SHAGGER JACKS

8004 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-933-4103

www.shaggerjacksoki.com

With over 50 beer selections, Shagger Jacks offers an assortment of dishes from steamers to ribs and sweet curry chicken to tacos.

SWAIN’S CUT SEAFOOD

8317 E. Oak Island Dr, (910) 933-6300

Serving fresh, local seafood and delicious and creative baked treats.

TRANQUIL HARBOR

5908 E. Oak Island Drive Oak Island Call (910) 250-12944

Casual family restaurant with a variety of dishes, seafood and daily specials.

WINE & BEER

GRAPE AND ALE

8521 E. Oak Island Dr. Oak Island, 910-933-4384

Quaint and eclectic store offering a large selection of wines, beers, and spirits. Perfect for either relaxation or for on the go! Tastings on Fridays 5-8pm,

SILVER COAST WINERY

105 S. Howe St. Southport, 910-777-5151

Brunswick County’s first and only winery and original Craft Beer Bar. Craft Beer and Wine tastings all day, every day! Check out our Facebook page for updated events, specialty beer tastings, and live music.

SOUTHPORT TAP & CELLAR

827 N. Howe St., Southport

Huge variety of draught beers, wine, adult slushies and more! Inside and outside seating. Watch our Facebook page for Foodt Truck dates!

THE WINE RACK

102 W. Brown St. Southport, 910-457-5147

Offering a selection of wine, cigars, coffees, and accessories, this quaint shop is perfect for a night out. Great service and over 600 wines to choose from.

UNCORKED BY THE SEA

602 N. Howe St. Southport, 910-454-0633

Offering a wide variety of fine wines and craft beers for in-store shopping, curbside pick-up

and shopping on-line. Delivering locally. Enjoy sipping wine in the shop while admiring local art or in the courtyard. Wines are available to taste every day. Special orders welcome

BARBECUE

M SOUTHPORT SMOKE HOUSE

1102 N. Howe St., Southport 910-363-5035

www.southportsmokehouse.com

Real wood smoked BBQ and brisket, great side items, and a great family environment.

M BAR-B-QUE HOUSE

5002 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-201-1001

www.bestbbqonthebeach.com

Hormel ribs are slow d in house and meats are offered with a variety of sauces, from Eastern NC vinegar to Lexington-style red.

CAFES, DELIS & GRILLS

49th STREET BAR AND GRILL

4901 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island Indoor and outside seating will a full menu.

BLUE COW GRILLE

108 Moore Street, Southport 910-363-4402

Serving specialty Burgers,.sanwiches and seafood. Lunch and Dinner

BOB’S DOGS

8903 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-3456 • www.bobsdogsoki.com

With custom hot dogs featuring an array of ingredients to homestyle sandwiches like chicken salad and burgers.

THE BREAK

5700 E. Oak Island Drive (910) 933-4734

Breakfast and lunch with an island flair CAROLINA COASTAL CAFE

607 N. Howe Street, Southport (910) 363-4350

Full service breakfast and lunch cafe withfull coffee bar and baked goods

CHASER’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL

8520 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-1500

Enjoy BBQ sandwiches, wings, fish ‘n’ chips and more at this sports grill.

DRIFTERS FOOD TRUCK

4602 E. Beach Dr, Oak Island

Delicious sandwiches and more right across from Middleton Park

Bahn Mi sandwich a Loco Jo’s

ERIC’S GRILLE

1671 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-9024

Offers old fashioned, hand patted hamburgers, plus bbq, hot dogs, chili cheese fries and breakfast sandwiches and platters.

FAT ANDY’S BURGERS

4655 Southport-Supply Rd SE,, Southport 910-269-7008

Handmade burgers using 100% ground chuck, plus freshly cut French fries.

FIXIN’S OKI

8300 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island (910) 933-1009

Southern inspired brunch menu served thoughout the day

JERSEY MIKES

5130 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport 910-477-6261

Subs and sandwiches, fresh salads.

CAFE KOA

302 N Howe St, Southport, 910-363-4206

Gourmet Sandwich Shop & Market With Yummy Goods & Gifts! Soups, Salads & Sandwiches Served Daily!

KOPP’S KWIK STOP II

3196 George II Hwy., Southport, 910-845-7700

Kopp’s grill serves up a full breakfast (available for school kids before class starts, too), plus homemade lunches throughout the day.

LITTLE BIT’S GRILL

5902 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island

910-278-6430

A classic burger joint, onion rings and other sides. Breakfast is served, pancakes and bacon.

LAZY TURTLE BAR & GRILL

601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island, 910-278-7725

Oceanfront dining and entertainment that is easy on the wallet and hard to forget. Tiki bar, arcade with two pool tables and plenty of seating to host your work, friend or family fun!

LOCAL’S FAMILY DINER

832 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-0444 www.localsfamilydiner.com

With a warm and friendly atmosphere, Local’s Family Diner serves breakfast all day long and a seafood and entrée menu for lunch and dinner.

LOCO JO’S

602 N. Howe St., #E

Fresh, creative asian and American specialties with wine, beer and a now a fully stocked bar

LONERIDER AT OAK ISLAND

57th Place west, Oak Island

Lonerider Brew-Stillery outlaws bring award winning brews/bourbons and atmosphere to Oak Island. Enjoy a beer or bourbon with the outlaws, listen to live music, play outdoor games, and raise a toast to craft beer and spirits community. Enjoy delicious food with amazing views of the intercoastal. Limited release, and cool specialty beers/spirits will be available at the Hideout

MOORE DOGS AND MORE

4346 Long Beach Rd, Southport

Hot Dogs, BBQ, and MORE!

M MOORE STREET MARKET

130 E. Moore St., Southport, 910-363-4203

Open for breakfast and lunch, specializing in organic and fairtrade coffee as well as gourmet sandwiches crafted with Boar’s Head deli meats.

OAK ISLAND DELI AND PUB

5422 E. Oak Island Dr., 910-278-4005

Offering hamburgers, sub sandwiches, salads, wraps, seafood and daily drink specials.

OAK ISLAND SUBS AND SALADS

5705 E. Oak Island Dr. 910-278-9040

From BLT’s with avocado to Cajun and Reuben sandwiches, & other quality sandwiches.

OASIS BAR AND GRILL

8039 River Rd. SE, Southport

910-454-4004

Shrimp in every style, plus sandwiches; try entrées such as scampi and filet mignon.

THE OFFICE COFFEE & WINE BAR

3280 George II HWY (BSL) Southport NC 910-351-8093 www.theofficecoffeeandwinebar.com

We serve Roast Magazine’s 2016 Roaster of the year, Espresso, Coffee Drinks(Hot, Frozen, Iced) Smoothies, Variety of Red/White Wines & Craft Beer. Also Pastries, Trays, Breakfast and Lunch Wraps.

OLD BRIDGE DINER

132 Country Club Dr., Oak Island 910-250-1184

A casual diner featuring breakfast & lunch, from fluffy omelets to burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. Open 6am - 2pm.

OLDE BRUNSWICK GENERAL STORE

1450 50 Lakes Dr., Boiling Spring Lakes

910-845-2707

Made-to-order breakfast and lunch grill.

THE SAUCY SOUTHERNER

501 N Howe Street, Southport (910) 477-6065

Offering breakfast & lunch with a southern twist. Real Good Feel Good, Food.

SUNSET GRILL

5119 E. Oak Island Dr, 910-933-6137

Mediterranean Cuisine with a Lebanese influence

TROLLY STOP

111 S. Howe St., Southport 910-457-7017

www.trollystophotdogs.com

A staple in NC, Trolly Stop is renowned across the nation for its one of a kind hot dogs.

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ

1671 N. Howe St. #1A, Southport 910-363-4908

www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com

Bold, flavorful food and smoothies with a healthy appeal. Our items are made to order with fresh, simple, superior ingredients.

WILDLIFE RESTAURANT & GRILL

4381 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 910-457-9953

www.wildlifegrill.webs.com

Serving a full range of items on our menu from breakfast to home cooked meals.

CHINESE ASIAN

TASTE

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 3, 910-457-0988 asiantastesouthportnc.com

Takeout traditional Chinese food, with staples such as lo mein, sesame chicken, and General Tso’s.

SOUTHPORT GOURMET AND SUSHI BAR

1643 N. Howe St, Southport (910) 477-9045

Serving a varietry of home-cokked Asian specialties and featuring a full sushi bar.

TASTE OF CHINA

4956 Long Beach Rd., Southport, 457-1838

Serving Cantonese, Szechuan and Hunanstyle Chinese food.

INTERNATIONAL

M

PORTS OF CALL

116 N. Howe St., Southport, 457-4544 www.portsofcallbistro.com

Offering choices that are largely influenced by dishes from across the globe. Menu items and specials can whisk your palette from Casablanca to Barcelona, Santorini to Mumbai, and from Marseilles to Munich or Charleston. Finish with a fresh baked dessert in the romantic atmosphere.

ITALIAN

M BELLA CUCINA

5177 SouthportSupply Rd., Southport 910-454-4540 www.belladiningnc.com

Focusing on family Italian recipes, Bella Cucina serves up everything from fine and fresh local seafood to hand tossed, New York style pizzas. Aside from a decadent wine list, Bella Cucina also offers specialty martinis.

CASTUCCI’S AN ITALIAN JOINT

4332 Long Beach Rd, Southport 910-477-6755

Family Italian restaurant

D’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

2831 Midway Rd Ste 106 (910) 253-8151

Serving Itaiian entrees, pizza and sandwiches.

FALCONE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

5013 Southport Crossing Way, Southport 910) 363-8000

Serving home cooked Itailan specialties in a friendly atmosphere.

M JOSEPH’S ITALIAN BISTRO

5003 O’Quinn Blvd., Southport, 454-4440 www.josephsitalianbistro.com

Armed with decades of experience and “secret” family recipes, Joseph’s Italian Bistro appeals with candlelit dining and fresh Italian continental cuisine.

JAPANESE

TENGU JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE

4956 Long Beach Rd. SE, 457-9398

Sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, hibachi, tempura and udon noodles all available.

MEXICAN DELPHINA CANTINA

10 Marina Wynd, Bald Head Island 910-457-1222

delphinacantina.webs.com

Mexican cuisine with Spanish and Cuban flare, such as Churrasco Cubano and Pescado Especial—both with plantains.

KAI JOE’S

4722 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island Phone: (910) 622-1509

Traditional Mexican dishes and specialties. SAN FELIPE

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 1, Southport & 4961 Long Beach Rd. SE 910-454-0950

Serving authentic dishes, such as fajitas, enchiladas and chalupas, fresh salsa and margaritas; serves traditional Mexican dishes.

910-253-3012 or

SIDE STREAT TAKE OUT

524 N Howe St., Southport

910-363-4113

Tex-Mex style cuisines at a local take-out joint. Serving a variety of fish, beef, and veggie bowls. Also offering quesadillas, tacos and hot, homemade soup. Take out or relish your meal under the shaded, outside dinning area.

TACO & BURITTO SHACK

3261 Hwy 87, BSL

910-351-0179

PIZZERIAS

BAMBINI’S PIZZERIA

1513 N Howe St, Southport

477-9352

A New York Style Pizzeria featuring homemade pizza, pasta, desserts, etc. Also serving a selection of beer and wine.

BEACH ROAD PIZZA AND WINGS

4688 Long Beach Rd, Southport

Pizzas, wings, fries, desserts

DRY STREET PUB AND PIZZA

101 E. Brown St., Southport 457-5994

www.drystreetpubandpizza.com

Known for handmade, original pizzas—including Margherita, “very veggie,” and Greek. Also offers salads, soups and gourmet sandwiches.

FAMOUS SUBS AND PIZZA

1541 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-5143

Recognized regionally for outstanding gyros, calzones and pizzas.

MO’S WOOD FIRED KITCHEN

4956 Old Long Beach Road SE ,Southport

Wood Fired Pizzas, Burgers, Salads & Wings

PIZZA SHACK

6212 E. Oak Island Dr., • 278-6781

Offering a variety of pies from classic favorites to Greek white and Hawaiian.

THE PEPPERONI GRILL

3156 George II Hwy, Boiling Spring Lakes 845-5151 • www.pepperonigrillnc.com

Offering eat in, take out and delivery. As well, offering oven toasted subs and calzones.

PEPPERONI GRILL AT THE BEACH

4320 East Beach Drive • 250-1190 www.pepperonigrillnc.com

Open 7 days a week year round. Offering eat in, take out as well as delivery.

PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA

4961 Old Long Beach Rd SE, Southport (910) 454-0757

Take-out/delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, wings & breadsticks, plus desserts.

DOMINO’S (SOUTHPORT)

1671 N Howe St #1b, Southport (910) 457-0083

DOMINO’S (OAK ISLAND)

5003 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island (910) 278-9111

Delivery/carryout chain offering a wide range of pizza, plus chicken & other sides.

THAI

INDOCHINE EXPRESS

1131 N. Atlantic Ave, Southport (910) 363-5072

Asian delicasies for dine-in or take-out

NOODLES AND ICE CREAM

8610 E. Oak Island Drive (910) 933-4011

Noodle bowls and other Asian slecialties with Thai ice cream.

BAKERIES/ COFFEE

AHOY DOUGHNUTS

5821 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 250-1005 • www.ahoydoughnuts.com

Fresh yeast raised, filled and cake donuts, apple fritters, cinnamon rolls, monkey muffins, twists and more. Handmade daily, family owned.

BURNEY’S BAKERY

808 N. Howe St., Southport 454-4222

Known for their light and flaky filled croissants with a sweet sugar glaze, plus more.

ISLAND JO COFFEE ‘N CAFE

7916 E. Oak Island Drive

(910) 250-1677

Homemade bagels, breakfast sandwiches, quiche, specialty coffees and sandwiches.

JUMPIN’ JAVA OAK ISLAND

4022 Old Bridge Rd., Southport • 363-4841

We carry a large variety of gluten free/vegan baked goods, as well as homemade coffee cakes and muffins. Delicious and decadent specialty drinks: lattes, mochas, frapps, hot chocolate, Chai teas and more.

PORT CITY JAVA

113 N. Howe Street, Southport

454-0321

www.portcityjava.com

We serve coffees, espresso drinks, fruit smoothies, milkshakes, fresh juices, breakfast and lunch sandwiches and wraps all day. Open year round. Complimentary WiFi. Comfortable inside and outside seating. Coffee catering available.

RUBY’S COFFEEHOUSE AND EATERY

At the Oak Island Pier, 705 Ocean Dr. Oak Island

Serving bagels, croissants, sandwiches, hot dogs and coffee right at the pier.

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 e OAk Island Drive

Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

SIDE STREET BAKERY

417-A N. Howe Street, Southport 363-4629

Locals suggest the cupcakes, lemon bars, key lime pie, and carrot cake.

STAARR CAKES BAKERY

200 Country Club Dr., Suite E, Oak Island 512-8881

www.staarrcakes.com

Made from scratch cupcakes, biscuits, and pies using the finest ingredients available. Coffee supplied by an NC roaster.

ICE CREAM

CHUCK’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

5021 Southport Crossing Way, Southport (910) 363-0208

Featuring delicious home made ice cream.

M DAIRY QUEEN

5701 E. Oak Island Dr.,• 278-5371

Featuring the iconic Blizzards, waffle-bowl sundaes, and more frozen treats. *Call for other nearby locations.

FLAVA’S COFFEE AND ICE CREAM

310 W. Bay St., Southport • 457-5150

Flava’s allows guests the choice between many flavors, including death by chocolate, birthday cake, cookies and cream, and more.

LIL & JOHN’S SWEETREAT HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

6324 East Oak Island Drive.

Family-owned and operated. Featuring 16 flavors of ultra-premium, homemade ice cream. We use only dairy from grass-fed North Carolina cows and never add artificial flavors or colors.

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E. Oak Island Drive

Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

SPIKE’S DAIRY BAR

201 N. Howe St., Southport, 477-9117

More than just ice cream, Spike’s offers great hot dogs as well.

THE SCOOP SHOP

4922 East Oak Island Dr, OKI 910-250-1321

The best ice cream on the beach! Plus made to order cake donuts and fresh hot donuts!

SUGAR DADDIES

5119 E. Oak Island Drive

Ice Cream and Dip-n-Dots

TIKI PINEAPPLE WHIPS

4602 E. Beach Drive, Oak Island (910) 632-0598

Dole Whip pineapple frozen treats right at the beach!

TROPICAL TREATS

5811 E. Oak Island Drive

Ice Cream, Italian Ice, Coffee, Ho,me Made Fudge