April 2025 Southport Magazine

ANY SINGLE ITEM

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

Inoticed all the azaleas popping out in color on the island this week and thought I’d head over to Franklin Square Park to grab a cover photo for the April issue. I guess the climate of Southport and the island are different enough that the big azaleas there weren’t quite blooming yet. There were some smaller ones blooming near Franklin Square Gallery, though, and while I was shooting them, a City of Southport employee walked up and we got to chatting about how it would be not too long before the park was full of blooms. He asked if I’d seen the cherry tree in Lowe White Park and showed me a photo on his phone. It was amazing, and I immediately drove over and snapped this month’s cover photo. Our community has some of the prettiest parks around, and the people who take care of them deserve our thanks. They are proud, and rightfully so, of the work they do and love our parks as much as anyone. So next time you see one of those park keepers out taking care of our community treasures, be sure to stop and thank them — they make our community great!

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

McKenzie Barwick

Carla Edstrom

Patty Langer

Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny

Janet Fortney

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

Biz Feature

Barn And Garden

Helping Local Gardners Find Native Plants

STORY BY JANET FORTNEY, PHOTOS BY SCOTT FORTNEY

Barn & Garden, Francesca Talbot’s latest Southport business endeavor (following Barn & Beach Designs and Barn & Beach Too), is a bright, plant-filled oasis. The charming shop offers native, locally-grown plants, flowers, herbs and trees; an eclectic selection of pots and tools; heirloom and organic seeds, garden books, classes and demonstrations, and other resources for both seasoned and fledgling gardeners.

Talbot and her husband Jay renovated the “very dark, very choppy office space” — previously a Burger King and most recently a motorized chairlift retailer — into a serene hideaway. The space has hosted bridal showers and is offering a Mother’s Day Flower and Tea Party in May. The shop’s background playlist of trickling water and music adds to its zen energy.

“We’d love for our customers to go get a coffee or tea down at our other store and then come up here with a book, sit with the plants,” encouraged Talbot, a 20-year Brunswick County resident who

just marked 11 years in business here.

All of the above is in collaboration with her husband whose building skills “play an integral part,” said Talbot. “I get a vision and just sort of hand it to him and say, ‘Hey, this is what I’m thinking,’ and he definitely brings it to life.” His talents are evident in the 100-year-old barnwood countertop, as well as “the plant stands that are on casters that we can rotate and move throughout the store — he designed all that. Our big potting table that we use for events, he did all that. So he does a lot for bringing my little vision to life. We also have a great

staff that throughout the day decorates and put things together. So, it’s definitely not a one-man show when it comes to making things look pretty all the time in here!”

Talbot, along with staff member Ernie McLaney (see related article in this issue), are passionate about educating and assisting the community with all-things-gardening and specifically on how to create native wildlife habitats in their own garden spaces, as well as partnering in support of other local businesses. “Yes, we would love for you to come in here and buy something,” Talbot said, “but, at the same time, we’d like to encourage you to plant local, plant native.

“We have classes and we’re going to be bringing in some workshops. We are collaborating with Wild Faith Flower Farm. We started a wholesale account with Pleasant Farm. We’ve got several other small, local growers in the area that we’re working with, so they can come in and do talks, do demonstrations,” Talbot added. “Hoffman Eco Works is our source for our soil. They’ve been an awesome asset in helping people [to plant] the right [native, non-invasive] plants… Education is one of the big things we like to do.”

Talbot and McLaney strongly encourage community members to learn how to transform their garden spaces – no matter how small – into Certified Wildlife Habitats. To that end, they have earned that important designation for the large field behind Barn & Beach Designs. “It’s an easy process,” said Talbot.

They have both attended Brunswick County Master Gardener classes. “Over at the complex in Bolivia, they offer fantastic, free information about what to plant, when to plant, how to plant native species. Our binder here in the shop is filled with all of that information, so people can come, sit down, and we can explain – even on a small scale, even if it’s container plants – how having the right type of pollinator plant in your yard to bring in the right type of pollinator to encourage growth and spreading more plants that need to be here versus the invasive ones.

“And, if we don’t currently have the plants [you want] in the store, we can at least point you in the right direction of who in our stash of local growers you can go to. Three or four of our growers don’t have greenhouses, so they’re kind of at the mercy of the weather, but in the next

few weeks, we should have a lot more plants in here. Definitely by the first of May, we should be hoppin’.”

“One of our big things with all the stores,” continued Talbot, “is upcycling. We hate waste, hate things getting thrown away, and try to find a purpose for what we come across. Instead of tools getting thrown away, we like to bring them in, clean them up, and sharpen tools for people just to try and keep things out of landfills. Pots we clean up and repurpose.

Talbot continued that “it hurts my heart” when local charity resale shops have to take donated items “to the dump; stuff that has nothing wrong with it. They don’t have room for it, or maybe there’s a crack in it. I’m trying to partner up with some of them to have the option to do what we can to fix [items] and send proceeds back to them. [Maybe] there’s something we can do – or an artist, or welder, or woodworker can do.”

Of her career, Talbot explained, “I honestly, honestly can say that I have not really worked a day in my life, except

for waiting tables in college. I look forward to going to work. Am I worth millions? Absolutely not, but I can hon-

estly say that the people I work with, like Ernie, they’re family.”

As for her customers? “I tell my staff all the time, there’s lots of places for people to go and spend their day. They have chosen to take the time to come into this store and we treat them accordingly. I don’t care if you bought something or not, that you took the time to check us out means a lot.

“Plant people are great people,” she added. “We tend to find that people who spend their days in nature just have a certain energy to them. They come in here and I think they add to our whole vision.”

Barn & Garden is located at 4890 Long Beach Road SE. For more information about the shop and its upcoming events, search “barn & garden” on Facebook.

Passionate Gardener

Ernie McLaney Rebuilding Wildlife Habitat

STORY BY JANET FORTNEY, PHOTOS BY SCOTT FORTNEY

Sometimes, according to Ernie McLaney, butterflies can get confused. “Things are connected a lot more than people realize,” he said while explaining the benefits of gardening with native plants. “If you put in the non-natives, our native wildlife is not used to that. It puzzles them. Some butterflies, for instance, only lay their eggs on native plants. If you don’t have that, they go elsewhere.”

McLaney, an inspired and inspirational gardener and key staff member at Southport’s Barn & Garden shop, traces his love of nature to his childhood. “Way back, I was interested in that from working with my grandparents in their yard. They were birders and whatnot. Later on, I took some courses and I got certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a habitat

steward. That means I was trained on what things to do in the yard and the landscape – whether it’s a balcony, a patio, a business, a church, or a residential area – to help bring in wildlife and pollinators.

“And the big thing about that right now, and we’re seeing it here” said McLaney, gesturing behind him at the heavy Long Beach Road traffic near Barn & Garden, “is because of development we’re losing our tree canopy. We’re losing native plants. And that’s part of what we’re trying to do here is to get people to replace invasive plants with something native, to give back to what’s been lost.”

McLaney, who had visited Brunswick County since childhood and relocated more than two years ago, is proud that Barn & Garden, owned by local retail businesswoman Francesa Talbot of Barn & Beach Designs and Barn &

Beach Too, is “a place to come and ask a lot of questions. We like to think that for people who might not know how to garden, but would like to, this is a good place to start because you can start on a smaller scale. You can start from seed and we can help you with that. We’re not on commission. We just want you to do well and that means that we do well and here you can get personal attention to your gardening needs that you might not get in other places.”

In order to advise customers on building native wildlife habitats, McLaney confirmed that the process “depends on where you are. A home garden is different from a balcony [garden]. And it depends on your budget. And it depends on the location.

Is it sunny? Is it moist? All kinds of things. We’d have to have a little conversation to find that out because we want to do our homework before we advise you on something that could work in your particular landscape.”

In addition to upcoming programs at Barn & Garden, McLaney has spoken to a group at Ocean View UMC on Oak Island that seeks “to figure out how they can better equip their gardens” and will speak at Hawthorne at Pine Forest apartment complex where “we’re going to talk about pollinators. They have a community garden and we’re going to talk to them about what [plants] to put in and how to care for them.” As the weather warms, McLaney and Tal-

bot are also planning to open an onsite demonstration garden.

In the meantime, McLaney likes to steer customers in the direction of the shop’s resources table, which he has helped to fashion. “We have three notebooks that have all kinds of information about plants.They can come down here and look at our resources. I’ve got some things they can download. I even have hand-out cards that they can talk to any of us about. We just have a lot of resources to offer and our plants kind of reflect

that. [Native gardening] is not a hard process, you just have to know the cause and effect of it.”

It’s clear that one of McLaney’s favorite aspects of his job, which he’s been at for a year and a half, is that he has the opportunity to get his hands in dirt “every time I work! I was lucky that Francesca and I knew each other from another business. And we got to talking about gardening and landscaping and one thing led to another. We don’t have a main person [who runs

Barn & Garden], we’re more of a team. Everybody’s got their speciality talents, but we work together. We leave each other notes about things coming up. We make a good team.

“She’s got a great following with her other two stores,” McLaney said of Talbot, “and her staff down there are great at letting people know that [Barn & Garden] is open and that they should come check it out. And of course they drive by and they’re curious. They come in and they’re just blown away by how nice and cozy it is and her artistic layout and design is carried over from her other stores. I usually have nice background music playing, the plants, the nice people who come in, gardeners, they just love it.”

Community Plein Air Festival

Outdoor Artists Take Over Southport

CONTRIBUTED BY CARMEL GONDEK,

UP YOUR ARTS

Mark your calendars for the return of the Southport Plein Air Festival, one of Southport’s most treasured events, from Thursday, May 1 to Saturday, May 3. Hosted by Up Your Arts and the City of Southport, the annual Plein Air Festival is a favorite amongst artists from near and far and is open to all talent levels. Last year more than 90 artists participated over the three days of the festival.

Plein Air, a French term for ‘in the open air’ means the public will have the opportunity to observe the artists painting outdoors all day Thursday and Friday, and in the morning on Saturday. Southport is blessed with many scenic painting locations, which makes this a favorite spot amongst the artists. Popular painting locations include the Cape Fear River, Southport’s historic buildings, impressive live oak trees, and the waterfront with its colorful buildings, serene salt marshes, marinas, and wildlife. The public is encouraged to take a stroll around town and to interact with the artists as they have repeatedly expressed how much they enjoy Southport’s hospitality.

Two receptions will be held to welcome the artists to Southport and give them an

opportunity to meet and interact with their fellow artists. Haven of Southport, 307 N. Howe St., will host them on Thursday, May 1, from 4 to 6 pm. This happy hour event is open to the public. On Friday, May 2, a private event will be held for the artist at Frying Pan, 319 West Bay St.

On Saturday, May 3, beginning at 10 am, music and festivities will be held in Franklin Square Park. The day will start with the ever popular Kids Plein Air, where children can try their hand at painting. There will also be a variety of other art forms that will be demonstrated by local artisans and all members of the public are invited to participate and try something new free of charge thanks to the generosity of grants from the North Carolina Arts Council, via Brunswick Art Council.

At 3 pm guests will be asked to leave Franklin Square Park for one hour while the artists set up for the much anticipated wet paint sale. At 4 pm, guests will be in-

vited to return to the park to view and purchase their favorites from among paintings the artists created during the festival.

Following the sale, a panel of judges comprised of selected local artists will present awards for their favorite paintings. The premier award, the People’s Choice Award, is selected by the public. The People’s Choice Award recipient has the honor of

having a painting featured on T-shirts and other graphics promoting the 2026 Plein Air festival.

A raffle will be held for two paintings created and donated by last year’s People Choice winner, Denise Nelson. Tickets will be available at the event all day Saturday. The raffle for the paintings will be held at 6 pm following the awards ceremony, and the winner does not need to be present to win.

Tossing On Target Axe-Throwers Target World Championships

STORY BY JANET FORTNEY, PHOTOS BY SCOTT FORTNEY

AlCochran is passionate about axes. “I sleep, work, and drink axes,” he proclaimed. “When I’m at work, I’m thinking about the next axe I want to build.”

“I can confirm that,” laughed Connor Davis, Al’s axe-throwing partner and former City of Southport co-worker. “Any moment of free time that Al had while I was working with him, we talked about axes.”

In early April, Cochran, Davis, and local knife-throwing competitor Michael Theakos will head to the 2025 World Axe Throwing Championships (WATC) in Appleton, Wisc. The three-day tournament, for which each man earned his place, will showcase challengers from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Japan, and New Zealand. Winners of top world titles will be chosen across five disciplines: Hatchet, Big Axe, Knife, Hatchet Duals, and Knife Duals.

Throw Baxe, Southport’s axe-throwing venue, is the hot spot for the competitors, who gather there for weekly league play. Owners Briton and Kevin Hollister are

proud sponsors of the contenders. “We expect big things out of Michael and our other throwers,” said Kevin. “I can’t wait to see them in our jerseys [at the world championship]. They’ll be on YouTube and posting their own matches on social media.” Other Southport businesses supporting Cochran include two-time sponsor Ace Hardware, Southport Smoke House, T&D Land Services, and Morning Wood Handles.

Cochran, who first got hooked on the sport eight years ago at a Wilmington bar, credits Kevin Hollister with introducing him to next-level axe-throwing. “When Throw Baxe opened, he tried to get me to throw some of these special throwing axes. But I refused because I thought they were too expensive and I didn’t want to break one! I went home and ordered my first one, got it, and

Cochran set his sights on partnering with Davis soon after he hired Davis for his City of Southport job. “I think one of the interview questions was, ‘Hey, you throw axes,’” Cochran joked. “I taught him a little bit and right now he’s winning the league, but I’m gonna take that over tonight! He might beat me one night, I might beat him the next night, but we do play our best game together,” said Cochran.

“Yeah, it very much has gone back and forth,” Davis said of who wins rounds between him and Cochran. If the two win a duals title at Worlds, they’ll take home an oversized trophy, $2,000 each, and, of course, bragging rights.

threw it one time and broke it.”

Since then, Cochran, whose competitive nature is fueled by the sport, has traveled to six competitions and now makes custom axe handles for himself and fellow players. Throwing axes can cost anywhere from $45 to $500 and up. Cochran is currently crafting one that could sell for as much as $700. He recalls coveting another woodworker’s axe that had flashing lights in the handle.

“It keeps him on his toes!” Melinda Cochran said of the constant competition her husband craves. She is his most loyal supporter and has used her Cricut machine to create some of his competition jerseys. She is also trained to be an official competition scorekeeper.

For now, the men eagerly anticipate the WATC trip. “I had a feeling I was going to get a bid [to compete], but I wasn’t sure,” smiled Cochran. Melinda confirmed that when Cochran was selected, “He was ecstatic!”

Newer to the sport is New York transplant Theakos.

“There was a place in Albany, N.Y., where me and my grandfather went one time and the

Above: Cochran (left) and Davis demonstrate their axe-throwing skills

Right: In January, Cochran (right) won second place at the Master of Axes tournament in Georgia

Some of Cochran’s sought-after custom hatchets and axes

COMMUNITY

the New York place.

“There’s not much difference between throwers up north and down here. There’s a lot of talent. A lot of big shots come through this state and a lot of people [throw] in New York. They’ve treated me down here just as nicely as the New York community when I played my first few seasons up there,” Theakos said. “I like the sport because it requires skill, but not like baseball and football; you can just be yourself and make an identity and go have fun.”

“I’ve really just started doing the tournament thing,” added Theakos, who favors Crusader knives and owns a “backup pair” of Highlanders. “This is my first-ever world tournament.”

To earn a spot in the knife-throwing championships, explained Theakos, “... they do qualifiers or a league bid. You have a judge that scores you and someone who films you throwing and…then they review it. If you have enough points versus someone else, then you’re in and you get a bid.”

Amidst all the good-natured one-upmanship, Cochran said that he most values the relationships that axe-throwing fosters. “I love these guys,” he said, gesturing around Throw Baxe. “I love the competition. I love that they’re all trying to beat me.”

Davis agreed, “It’s the camaraderie. I really enjoy coming here every Tuesday night or every Monday night when we throw. It’s just a good crowd of people to be around.”

Despite his competitiveness, Cochran is always keen to teach newbies. “I love these new people. I’ll help anybody. It’s so exciting to watch people who didn’t throw well improve.

“But,” he warned, “when I get in the zone, I don’t like nobody talking to me. I hate playing someone who’s trying to talk to me while I’m throwing.” Seems like fair warning to Cochran’s future opponents.

Left: Briton and Kevin Hollister with Axel

Double Cherry Pie

Sherol Lappala

Brian Deutsch

Verilyn McKee Sarah Smith

Brian Quinn Katherine Hufham

Kim Anne Russ Pamela Frandano

Fred Fiss David Thorp Myles Williams

Lee Ann Walker

Sally Stidham

Valerie Earman

Karen Saunders

Katherine Wooten

Mary Carneiro

Tanya Broussard

Kim Moss Annabelle Pivarnik

Shea Williams

Young EntrePENeur

At The Market With Beady Creations By Ellie

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

Walking through the Oak Island Mardi Gras Festival market, checking out all the vendors, I was drawn to one tent like a magnet. There were pens, lots of pens, hundreds of pens, no two alike. I have a weak spot for anything analog and I’m the guy who always begins reaching into his pocket whenever someone says “Anyone have a pen?” So I had to check this out, and that’s how I met Ellie Hummer, an 11-year-old sixth grader at Southeastern Christian Academy in Shallotte, an entrepreneur, a creator, and proprietor of Beady Creations by Ellie.

Ellie’s Beady Creations are pens that have been enhanced with little plastic beads and rubber insignia. You’ll find your favorite sports team (I bought a Penn State pen of course), logos from popular brands (the Lulu Lemon pen is best-seller), animals, and characters from books, movies, cartoons and all other parts of our culture. There are so many different pens, it’s a bit overwhelming really.

“I love dogs!” Ellie said, showing me one of her favorites that is made to look like her own dog, Cali.

I asked Ellie long it took to make all these items. “A million years!” she exclaimed with a huge smile. Ellie’s mom and business partner Cindy assured me it wasn’t quite that long, but that Ellie did indeed have quite a bit of time invested.

“I buy the pens and the beads and I put them together,” said Ellie. “One of my friends was making them and I just started making them too. I was just getting bored sitting around the house.”

Ellie doesn’t have time to get bored now. Since beginning the business in February of 2024, Ellie and her mom

estimate they’ve done around 50 markets. While I spoke to them, Ellie and her mom were busy setting up and laying out pens for the Oak Island Spring Fest market. They said it takes about two hours to get everything ready for sale.

Ellie gave a little sigh and said, “I wanted to sleep in today, but…..” She said it’s fun to make the pens, but she also enjoys making some money. When asked how much Beady Creations had made so far, she said she had a bank account with “around two million dollars.” After a look from mom, she reduced her estimate a few times before

finally admitting she wasn’t sure how much she’d saved so far. “She’s been able to save for some things she wants,” Cindy said.

It’s Ellie’s job to deal with the customers, handing our business cards, taking in money and making change. While we were talking, a young girl customer walked up and asked Ellie if she had made all these pens. “You do a really great job!” she said, promising to return with some money and pick a few out for herself.

Ellie sells her pens outside of markets as well. Beady Creations by Ellie are

available at the Coffee Cottage and English Tea House in Calabash, Books and More in Carolina Shores, and Little River Nutrition. You’ll also find them in some

places where pens are needed, such as Truist and TD banks and the Milk and Honey Restaurant, where Ellie says she has equipped many of the wait staff.

“All my teachers have pens and I gave one to my principal,” Ellie added.

If you need a pen with a little personality, and who doesn’t really, Beady Creations by Ellie’s next markets will be April 12 at the Bridgewater Craft Fair in Little River, Taste of Calabash on April 26, then back to Oak Island for the Seafood Festival on May 3. You can find Beady Creations on Facebook, Instagram, Etsy and TicTok if you’d like to keep up with future market dates.

As we were wrapping up our interview, Ellie looked up at me jotting down notes and said, “You need to upgrade your pen!” Of course I left with a new Donald Duck pen and a warm heart knowing the entrepreneurial spirit is still alive and well with the next generation.

Kids’ Art In The Park

Franklin Square Gallery Hosts Artisitic Fun

STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Children can have the most vivid imaginations, and when that creativity is channeled into art, who knows what treasures our local children can create. The Associated Artists of Southport (“AAS”) is hosting its annual Kids’ Day Art in the Park, giving children the chance to express themselves through art and giving all of us grownups the chance to enjoy their works and encourage their creativity.

Kids’ Day Art in the Park is a fun-filled, handson, art-making fair for children of all ages. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, April 12, from 11 am - 2 pm, on the grounds directly behind and adjacent to Franklin Square Gallery in downtown Southport. Kids’ Day is a free event, open to children of all ages and their parents.

For this year’s event, the grounds surrounding the Gallery will be transformed into an outdoor art studio with various art-making stations staffed by AAS’s talented members. Youngsters will be able to learn about different art forms and try their hands at flower pot painting and planting, face painting, bracelet making, kite making, visor decorating, origami, polymer clay sculpting and bubble blowing. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

While there, families are also invited to stop in and visit Franklin Square Gallery, the home of AAS. It features seven rooms of paintings, pottery and ceramic sculpture, on display and for sale.

Franklin Square Gallery is located at 130 E. West St. in Southport, and admission is always free. Like so many of the Gallery’s events, Kids’ Day Art in the Park is supported by the Brunswick Arts Council ARPA Program, a Designated County Partner of the North Carolina Arts Council, which is a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. For more information about Kids’ Day, please contact Chairperson Charleea Yarbrough at charleeabarrett39@gmail. com.

Brunswick Winds

Music From Around The World Spring Concert

STORY CONTRIBUTED BY FELICIA SEXTON, BRUNSWICK BANDS

Celebrate

spring as the Brunswick Winds presents “Music from Around the World”. Our spring concert is free. Join us at 3 pm on Saturday, May 10, at Hatch Auditorium, NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell.

Brunswick Saxes, Brunswick Brass, and Trilogy Trio, our small ensembles, will also join this celebration to bring a concert experience offering something for everyone! Music selections include a sprinkling of classical, latin and sacred pieces, and selections from movies and theater.

Our volunteer musicians, along with talented high school students, simply enjoy performing music, and are dedicated to enriching our Brunswick County area with a variety of fabulous instrumental music. Admission for any of our concerts is always free.

The Bands encourage Brunswick County students to participate

with community and school band programs. The Music Student Assistance Program loans musical instruments to students, and a scholarship program is available to graduating Brunswick County musicians. Some individual Band members also assist the music programs at middle and high schools in the county. Brunswick Bands, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Financial support comes from donations, sponsorship opportunities and Friends of the Brunswick Bands.

For more information, visit www. brunswickbands.org.

COMMUNITY

Carribbean Escape

Friends of the Maritime Museum Fundraiser

STORY BY JEFFREY STITES

Escape to the Caribbean with the Friends of the NC Maritime Museum at Southport at the “Caribbean Night spring fundraiser on Friday, April 11 from 6-9 pm at a private Southport estate on the Cape Fear River. This year’s event will will feature live music (including a steel drum), delicious dinner cuisine with Caribbean flavors, and spirits, such as wine, beer, and a special Caribbean-themed cocktail. There will also be a live auction and raffle items with numerous high-end prizes such as a golf outing for four at Bald Head Island, a Boozy Bourbon Box and an original painting by renowned artist Karen Scott.

“This will be a very special event as it is being held at one of the most gorgeous waterfront homes along the Cape Fear River in Southport,” this year’s event chairman Kim Cobb

said. “The gracious owners are sharing their beautiful home, property, and waterfront views with the Friends supporters. I don’t think anything like this has ever been offered as a fundraiser in Southport.

We are so excited and expect tickets to sell quickly.”

The cost to attend the event is $100 per person/$200 per couple, and tickets are limited.

Every dollar donated or collected will go to support the NC Maritime Museum at Southport and its upcoming exhibits and programs. Last year’s new “Fishing Exhibit” is a wonderful example of what support from the Friends and our community’s support can do for the Museum at Southport,” said Cobb. Tickets

can be purchased at FriendsNCMMSouthport.com/Benefit.

The mission of the Friends of the NC Maritime Museum at Southport is to develop, encourage and promote public awareness of the museum and to support the resources, programs and facilities. The Maritime Museum is located at 204 E. Moore St. in Southport is open Tuesdays-Saturdays. The Friends organization is a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

Caribbean Night on the Cape Fear River

Friday, April 11 - 6pm to 9pm

Join

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A Gold Star Chef

Chef John La Tour Earns State Award

STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY ANGIE LAWRENCE, EFNEP NUTRITION EDUCATOR, 4-H PROGRAM ASSOCIATE

Chef John LaTour is on a mission to help families eat and live healthier. With a background in technology and culinary arts, he transitioned from a career at Microsoft to studying business, baking, and pastry arts, later graduating from Johnson & Wales Culinary School. After working in food service, he spent a decade teaching with Mecklenburg County’s Smart Start program and Central Piedmont Community College’s Charlotte Cooks. In 2020, after relocating to Brunswick County, he launched Healthy Families, Healthy Futures, a nonprofit organization dedicated to nutrition education.

Shortly after, Chef John also connected with Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), forming a strong partnership with Brunswick County EFNEP Educator Angie Lawrence. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, they began offering outdoor cooking classes in 2021, combining hands-on food preparation with EFNEP’s nutrition curriculum. Their collaboration expanded to Migrant Education Program participants, Smart Start educators, and adult EFNEP classes. Chef John has also led 4-H youth cooking classes, trained staff, and supported food- related Extension programs across counties.

What sets Chef John apart is his generosity — he volunteers his time and expertise, strengthening EFNEP’s reach in the Southeast Region. From co-teaching at community events to assisting with the 4-H Chopped Challenge, his dedication makes a lasting impact. His contributions have earned him the Golden Star Award, a well-deserved recognition for his unwavering commitment to healthier communities, and only about one of five chefs in NC receive the Golden Star award from EFNEP (The Golden Stars of EFNEP are individuals, groups or agencies, both internal and external, who have significantly contributed to the county program. They provide on-going support to help the EFNEP Educator achieve the county program goals.

THANK YOU CHEF JOHN FOR ALL YOU DO!

COMMUNITY

Art Gallery Guild

Five Southport Galleries Band Together

The five art galleries in downtown Southport have banded together to form “Southport Art Galleries Guild” (SAGG or “the Guild”). The Guild is composed of retail art galleries within the historic city of Southport whose primary focus is the exhibiting and sale of original art produced by local artists. These galleries are open to the public and they are regular participants of the First Friday Art events.

The five galleries in historic downtown Southport are:

•Artisans Gallery on Howe, 114 S. Howe St.

•Franklin Square Gallery, 130 E. West St.

•Lantanas Gallery, 113 S. Howe St.

•Ricky Evans Gallery, 211 N. Howe St.

•Southport Studio Artists, 715 N. Howe St.

The Guild’s purpose is to be “a collaborative group of art galleries whose mission is to enhance Southport as a unique art destination and support art galleries in Southport while striving to raise awareness of local artists.” To

best determine what projects to first undertake to enhance Southport as an art destination, the Guild has been meeting with local business organizations, including the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce, the City of Southport and art organizations such as the Brunswick Art Council (BAC).

One of their first projects is to enhance the already popular “First Friday Art Walks,” held the first Friday of every month between March and December. The Guild has coordinated with the Southport Trolley to provide

free rides up and down Howe Street during the two hour Art Walk (5-7 pm) each month as well as starting and ending on Oak Island. Each gallery provides refreshments and several of them will offer entertainment some months.

The Guild encourages area residents and family and friends of artists to visit the galler-

ies, bring visitors to the galleries, and attend First Friday of each month “Art Walks” 5-7 pm the months of March through December. For more information about the Guild, visit southportartgalleriesguild.com.

This month’s “Art Walk” is Friday, April 4, between 5 and 7 pm.

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Community

A New Reaves Chapel Restoration Project Preserves Area

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JAN MORGAN-SWEGLE

History

Reaves Chapel, tall and white with a newly-restored bell tower and simple stained-glass windows, stood proud against the Carolina blue sky and gentle breeze of Spring in Navassa during a dedication ceremony last month held as part of the NC Rice Festival.

Rather than serving as a bleak reminder of our history, the dedication was a celebration of life, spirit and commitment to the idea that we are all one people and when we are banded together, we can overcome terrible injustices and build a stronger foundation for the next generation.

The Chapel was built between 1860 and 1880, by the Gullah Geechee people. These were proud people who were forced into slavery from coastal Africa because of their superior knowledge of how to build and cultivate rice fields on the swampy banks of rivers and yield a successful crop year after year. Although plantations were plentiful up and down the Cape Fear River, their crop production mainly included cotton, sugar cane and tobacco.

Around 1691, some plantation managers started to experiment with growing rice in cleared swamp land, but because rice was not indigenous to North America, they lacked the knowledge of how to successfully build dams and drainage systems that would yield a successful crop. It was the Gullah Geechee people who successfully grew and harvested rice, which would become a commercial crop, and contributed heavily to the economic growth and

stability of the South. By 1699, rice from the South was being shipped to England and other countries, providing the Carolina plantation owners with a huge profit.

Enslaved people built the Chapel as a place of worship and learning. Children would gather at the Chapel to hear about their heritage, ancestors and faith. The Chapel was moved to its current location in 1911 and placed on land donated by landowner Edward Reaves. It also served as a place of refuge for many slaves seeking freedom as they made their way North. Years later, during the Civil Rights unrest, it again opened its doors as a place of refuge and safety. But by the early 2000s, the Chapel had fallen into a grave state of disrepair.

Alfonzo Beatty, who was the President of the Cedar Hill/West Bank Heritage Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the area, at the time, could not let that happen. He understood not only the historical significance of the Chapel, but the cultural significance as well.

Beatty spent more than 15 years looking for ways to preserve the Chapel. He was instrumental in forming the Cedar Hill/ West Bank Foundation in 2011, for the sole purpose of saving the Chapel. He had the idea, but not the necessary financial support to make it a reality. Holding on to that dream, he took his idea to the Coastal Land Trust in 2015. The organization purchased the Chapel four years later with money from the Orton Foundation, an affiliate of The Moore Charitable Foundation, which

lends its support to cultural and historic restorations in the Cape Fear River Basin.

Over time, Beatty enlisted the aid of surrounding communities, the Brunswick Arts Council and Leland Tourism Development Authority, but it is the Coastal Land Trust, and the Cedar Hill West Bank Heritage Foundation who are credited for making the restoration a reality. Beatty often remarked that it was the Coastal Land Trust who did the “heavy lifting” for the project.

Unfortunately, Beatty died on February 12, 2025, but he was able to see the restored Chapel just before he passed, and his presence could be felt at the dedication.

The ceremony opened with remarks from Dr. Doug Cushing, a member of the North Carolina Rice Festival Foundation. “Today

is the day that we, by the grace of God, and the generosity of so many, are able to see this dream become a reality.” He joked that while for some people, this was, “just another Friday,” for so many associated with this project, it was, “the culmination of a dream.”

Tyanna Parker West, a public historian, welcomed honored guests, including mayors and town council representatives from the surrounding areas, Rice Festival officials, board members, members of the NAACP and Sheriff Brian Chism. She also recognized several members of the Beatty family, who supported Alfonso Beatty and his dream. The audience was also treated to a performance of gospel music, present-

Historian, Tyanna Parker West

Community

ed by members of Browns Chapel, AME Zion Church in Southport.

The program also included Madison Kilgore, Regional Outreach Advisor, reading a letter from Governor Josh Stein, who praised the restoration efforts, saying, “You have not only restored this building, but also rekindled North Carolina’s connection to its past.”

There were also remarks by Michelle Lanier, Director, North Carolina Historic Site and Commission, Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor Commission and Tyana Parker West, highlighting the ties and descendants of the Gullah Geechee people and their contribution to the area.

Reverend Steve Hatcher closed the event with a blessing and ringing of the Chapel bells. Reverend Avery McCallister, sporting a Reaves Chapel fundraising tee shirt, gave the benediction and then the audience was invited to visit the Chapel and collect information regarding the project sponsors and historical data.

While this event may have been focused on the safeguarding of history surrounding a faction of the residents of the area as well as the importance of capturing and protecting cultural history, the attendees

were diverse and from all over the state.

After the dedication, people were not in a hurry to leave, seeming to bask in the glow of such a significant accomplishment. Mary Burke, Director of Educational Services for the Land Trust Alliance, said, “I’ve watched this project from afar for many years. We supported Coastal Land Trust, our organization is the national leader in policy, standards and education. We fully support land trust projects such as this because of the benefits they will provide to future generations.”

Added Stephanie Borrett, Developmental Director, Carousel Child Advocacy Center, “all in all, it was a beautiful day and a beautiful event that so many people have waited for. I’m glad to see such a great turnout and I know this building will remain an important part of the community.”

Leland Councilman Bill McHugh and Leland Mayor, Brenda Bozeman, echoed that this was a good example of what people can accomplish when they work together

on a vision and mission that will impact so many.

In the bright, sunny afternoon, after the ceremony concluded, children played on the grass in front of the bell tower. They ran around the path to the back of the Chapel, around the corner and came back to where they started, laughing and gasp-

ing for breath. As I watched them, the leaves on the trees rustled just a bit, and I thought I could almost hear Alfonso Beatty telling the children that this was their history and their heritage, and that they should respect it and honor it, letting no man or entity take it from them, and by God Almighty, never forgetting it.

Community Public Safety Center

Brunswick Community College Expands

STORY BY JANET FORTNEY, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Brunswick Community College (BCC) celebrated a major milestone in late January with the symbolic groundbreaking of the new Alan Holden Public Safety Center. This undertaking marks the beginning of a transformative project that will bolster educational and career opportunities while addressing the critical workforce needs of ever-growing Brunswick County.

The Public Safety Center will house specialized labs and training spaces, including a VirTra Simulator, moveable wall tactical firearm room, self-defense and arrest techniques mat room, driving simulators, EMS scenario training rooms, and an apparatus bay. These resources will enable students and local professionals to train in real-world scenarios, enhancing their preparedness for public safety careers.

The facility will house Associate in Applied Science degree programs in Criminal Justice Technology, Emergency Medical Science (EMS), and Public Safety Administration with specializations in Corrections, Law Enforcement, and Emergency and Fire Management, and 911 Communication and Operations. In addition, the center will offer diploma, certification, and continuing education courses such as Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET), Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Advanced Life Support (ALS), and a variety of firefighter training programs.

Jerome “Chip” Munna, Program Director of BCC’s Department of Emergency Medical Science (EMS), confirmed that the new public safety center will bring exciting upgrades to an already distinctive program that brings students from as far as Greenville, NC. The new facility “will have an apparatus bay where [learners] can get realistic, efficient, and practical training. We can bring an ambulance in there, bring a fire truck in there. We’ll be able to offer them experience with all the ‘trinkets and gadgets’ before they go out on their first ride and need to focus on [patients’] continued medical care.”

Munna also noted that the new building will provide a dedicated EMS lab and classrooms. “The school puts a lot of money and equipment in to support the students and that’s what it’s all about. It’s a great program that’s really been growing a lot,” he said.

The EMS program has two paths from which students may choose. One is the certificate program, an evening program typically favored by those already in the workforce or with other daytime responsibilities; the other is the curriculum program, a degree-completion program with daytime courses. Currently, 13 first-year students are engaged in the curriculum offerings and 21 in the certificate

classes.

Approximately 70 guests, including faculty, staff, and first responders who will teach classes at the site, were on-hand for the recent groundbreaking. The 28,278-squarefoot facility will be located off U.S. 17 in Bolivia, directly behind the college’s main entrance. It will occupy space, according to Julia W. Stuart, BCC Director of Public Relations & Marketing, previously used as part of BCC’s aquaculture program.

“This project is a game changer for the safety and well-being of the people of the county and beyond,” said Brunswick County Sheriff Brian Chism. “The Alan Holden Public Safety Center will provide invaluable training resources for public safety professionals, ensuring they are prepared to pro-

tect and serve at the highest level. We are grateful to both Mr. Holden and BCC for their continued contributions to and support of our community.” Holden, mayor of Holden Beach and chairman of the college’s Board of Trustees, donated more than $500,000 to actualize the project.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a monumental step forward in Brunswick Community College’s mission to meet the growing needs of our community,” said Dr. Gene Smith, BCC President.“The center will provide top-tier education and training opportunities for students and support in-service training for our local law enforcement officers, fire, and rescue personnel. We are deeply honored by Alan Holden’s generosity and his trust in BCC to carry forward a legacy of excellence and service to our community.”

Designed by Wilmington’s Sawyer, Sherwood & Associate Architecture, the state-of-the-art center is expected to be completed by March 2026. Bordeaux Construction Company, Inc., of Morrisville, NC, is on-board for project construction.

Community Medicine Disposal

Operation Medicine Cabinet Returns

Dosher Memorial Hospital’s 28th semi-annual “Operation Medicine Cabinet” medication disposal event will take place on Wednesday, April 2. Operation Medicine Cabinet is a drive through drug take back event which enables local residents to drop off unwanted and expired prescription medications at the front entrance of the hospital without having to leave their vehicles. Operation Medicine Cabinet helps prevent drug misuse and minimizes environmental impacts by providing an alternative to household disposal methods.

The drug drop hours are between 9 am and 1 pm, and the location is the Dosher Hospital front entrance at 924 N. Howe St., Southport.

Sharps containers will not be accepted at this event, however, Dosher staff members will have information on hand on how to safely dispose sharps at home.

Please note that Dosher is unable to col-

lect any medications outside of the published hours of this event. Participants who arrive early will be asked to hold onto their medications until 9 am. Community members who arrive after 1 pm will be directed to other local safe medication disposal locations. These measures are for the safety of our staff and community, and Dosher appreciates everyone’s understanding.

For questions about Operation Medicine Cabinet, call the Dosher Office of Marketing and Community Relations at 910-4573900 or email marketing@dosher.org.

Comedy with Darren Carter, the “Party Starter”

THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025

7:30 PM

Honoring the Led Zeppelin legacy

THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2025

7:30 PM

Described as the “Hawaiian Grateful Dead”

SATURDAY, APRIL 19, 2025 7:30 PM

A half century of classic American music

SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025

2:00 PM + 7:30 PM

Keeping Fit

Make The First Step

You Can’t Win If You Don’t Start

BY VICTOR FERNANDES

Victor Fernandes is owner of Fernandez Fit, helpjng clients achieve personal and professional success through health and fitness

Allow me to paint a picture of how my current health and fitness journey began nearly 15 years ago.

I stepped onto a treadmill.

I walked slowly for 10 minutes.

I stepped off the treadmill.

I went home.

That’s it. That’s all I could do, so that was all my health and fitness coach at the time wanted me to do. There is no good that could have come from trying to do more than I was prepared to do. My past health and fitness history, filled with countless starts, stops and an unhealthy lifestyle that had full control over my life for many years, proved that.

We all have to start somewhere. The healthiest people you know weren’t the healthiest people you know until they took the first step toward reaching their goals, and then built upon that day after day, month after month, and year after year. Until that first day, those people faced the same challenges we all face when tackling the most precious commodity we have — our health and well-being.

Until that day, they had goals they wanted to accomplish but hadn’t made happen to that point. We all have goals, and I understand those goals you currently have in mind seem daunting, which likely is why you haven’t faced them head on yet. But all that matters now is to start.

It all starts with a proper mindset. Mindset is such an integral part of what my clients and I discuss on a daily basis. If our minds and hearts aren’t in the

right place, if they’re not in alignment, the best health and fitness plan ever created will fall woefully short of helping anyone accomplish anything.

If you work or have worked with me for any length of time, or had a conversation with me about health and well-being, or follow me on social media, you’ve heard me share the following thought.

If I put an apple, a bag of chips, a bottle of water and a can of soda on a table, I would be challenged to find anyone across the United States who didn’t know the healthiest options to select.

If I gave you the following two options — to go for a walk or to sit on the couch and watch television, I would be hard-pressed to find anyone who didn’t know which was the healthiest option to choose.

Yet, studies show that more than 40 percent of this country’s population — which reportedly stands at approximately 340 million people — is deemed obese, with more than 70 percent deemed overweight.

Frankly, I believe those sobering numbers don’t stem from people failing to have the most basic knowledge about health and well-being. The true reasons — the root of those people’s struggles — run much deeper, and have very little to do with their physical health and well-being. Losing weight, building muscle, feeling energized and having our clothes fit better, although important goals, often aren’t the real

reasons why people focus on improving their health and well-being.

So why are there so many unhealthy people in this country? Ultimately, only those people know for sure. Only they know what’s going on in their heart and mind. Until they address what’s going on with them, they will be stuck in the position they’re in — and if asked to be honest with themselves, they likely would say they want to make positive changes in their lives.

I’m Exhibit A...I spent the opening half of my adult life living that life of disappointment, and nothing changed (except for my 70-plus pounds of weight gain, of course) until I finally began to face the obvious obstacles

in my way and took action to overcome those obstacles. I allowed the fear that controlled my life to keep me from living my life to the fullest instead of merely existing within it.

Nearly 15 years later, so much about me has changed. My career, my business — that only begins to explain it. But none of it would be possible if I hadn’t taken that first step back then.

It may be called physical fitness, but it is much more mental and emotional than physical. The sooner we accept that, the clearer the path to our goals becomes for us.

That’s when we start to win.

If you would like to learn more about improving your mindset and taking control of your health and well-being, or if you would like to learn more about me and Fernandes Fit, call 814504-7774, send an email to info@fernandesfit.com, or head to fernandesfit. com.

Golf Tips

Nicole’s Golf Notes

Golf’s Tradition of Manners and Etiquette

BY NICOLE WELLER LPGA/PGA GOLF TEACHING PROFESSIONAL

Nicole Weller instructs local area golfers at Compass Pointe Golf Club in Leland. Feel free to submit your question or topic for the Nicole’s Notes column via her website ‘Contact Nicole’ page. For more information on Nicole and her tips / videos, visit www.nicoleweller.com.

Golf has always been a game full of interesting and understood manners and etiquette developed as a gentleman’s sport, showing kindness and sportsmanship despite the competitiveness that can develop during a match. Oftentimes golfers new to the game want to make sure they’re doing things that fit in with the sport’s etiquette or play but haven’t been exposed to golf’s manners that the culture follows.

From The 19th Hole Staff 1991, “Female golfers have been wielding their clubs on golf courses since 1552 when Mary Queen of Scots played. Mary was quite a pioneer, introducing the concept of caddies, commissioning the St. Andrews Links (Scotland), and taking the sport to France.”

So for all the women and men who are a part of this spectacular sport’s culture, here are just a few basics from tee to green on proper golf etiquette and respecting each other, the course and the game…how many do you know?

Teeing Ground

first person has hit.

Share cart driving responsibilities, no unnecessary sitting and waiting or checking out one’s phone while preparations could be made to be ready at the next shot.

ant parts of a golf course in the best shape for everyone. Use a tee or repair tool. Communicate if you intend to mark or putt out so the next person can either get ready or wait.

Help gather others’ clubs and equipment if you’re done and they’re still putting. It’s kind to help others and help speed pace of play.

Wait until the group finishes putting, don’t finish and then leave the group for the next tee before all others are done. Manage your emotion if you’ve had a poor

Shake hands (or fist bump) with your introduction, if new to your group of players.

The person with the lowest score on the prior hole earns the ‘honors’ or right to tee off first, if ready.

Players should show other players in the group the type of golf ball being played, preferably with a distinguishing mark on it to make it easier and faster to identify. Be at the first tee 10 minutes prior to a tee time ready to play (golf balls, tees, ball marker, repair tool) so when the tee and group ahead is safely clear, it’s Go Time, Play!

Someone should always be teeing off within 15 seconds of arriving at the teeing ground if clear ahead. Keep the game moving.

Fairway

The farthest person from the hole hits first. The next person should already be ready to the side to hit, if safe, once the

If taking a divot (chunk of ground with shot), either replace the divot hole with the divot piece (northern grasses) or fill the divot hole in with sand so the grass can grow back over (southern grasses).

Keep golf carts roughly 50 yards from the green to maintain the best conditions possible. The more tire traffic and wear patterns there are near the green, the harder the conditions. Respect the course and the team that takes care of it for all of us!

Putting Green

Mark the golf ball once on the green. On television, the only ball on the green is the one being played. Place a marker behind the ball, then pick up (you can now clean it as well).

Repair the indent ball mark your ball might have made if hitting the green on the fly, as well as fixing one more as you walk off the green. Help keep the most import-

putting experience and be respectful of others’ turns.

Shake hands (or fist bump) after completing the last hole of play and walking off the green…Game over!

Write your score down on the way to or at the next hole — don’t sit in the cart after the hole is finished as the group behind you is waiting to hit onto the green.

Park the cart either even or just past the hole on the cart path near the hole. Leaving it back nearer the fairway means one has to go backwards to get the cart after putting while the group behind is waiting to play. Move forward, not backward.

Etiquette Videos: For those new to the game, I created 11 short video clips on the game’s etiquette, pace and some rules that can be viewed under my You Tube channel or are listed under my website Media page.

FISHING REPORT

April Fishing Report

Some Tips For Great Early Spring Fishing

BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK

Spring has sprung and so has the fishing! It’s been a long, cold winter, but a very mild transition to spring is allowing the fishing to crank up right on schedule. It’s been several years since we’ve had a “normal” transition to spring fishing. In recent years, the cold has lingered through March, delaying the bite. This year, however, is looking great!

I’m currently in the warm, beautiful waters of the Bahamas, where the fishing has been excellent. Back home, the fishing is just as good.

Inshore

We’ve transitioned out of the cold-water patterns into spring fishing. The fish are moving out of the backs of the creeks into the estuaries and bays along the Cape Fear River. The first baitfish of the year are showing up—small menhaden are in the usual areas like the ICW, Wildlife Creek, etc., and there are tons of small hatchling baits everywhere.

The whiting are thick and feeding along the beach as well as near the mouth of the Cape Fear River. Anchor up near the directional beacons by Bald Head Island and use a simple two-hook rig with small, longshank hooks, 2–3 ounces of weight, and very small pieces of shrimp—you’ll catch all you want! This is an amazing way to put some great fish on the table and introduce kids to fishing. The action is fast and nonstop.

Red drum are feeding in schools along the flats near the mouth of the Cape Fear River. Carolina rigs with fresh shrimp will do the trick. If you prefer artificials, try a popping cork with artificial shrimp or a light jig head with a paddle tail. Early in the morning, you’ll see drum rolling on bait—try casting a topwater plug and working it over the flats.

Captain Steele Park, a US Navy Veteran, has been fishing the oceans, rivers, and lakes of southeastern NC since he was 7 years old and knows these waters like the back of his hand. He calls Southport home and captains the Catherine Anne Sportfishing & Excursions fleet. For more information please call at 910-620-9919

We’re also seeing the first flounder of the season, which is a welcome sight. While it remains to be seen what kind of season we’ll have in terms of keeping these delicious fish, they’re still a ton of fun to catch.

Sheepshead are stacking up on bridges, piers, and docks and are feeding aggressively. Live fiddler crabs on a short-shank jig head work great.

Small pogies on a Carolina rig will get plenty of attention.

Nearshore

Atlantic bonito, Spanish mackerel, and bluefish are showing up like clockwork. In early April, you may need to search 5–8 miles off the beach, but as water temperatures hit 70°F, the fish will move inshore and can be caught in 10–20 feet of water. Look for birds working glass minnows, fish jumping, or fish the tidelines along the beach. I do a lot of trolling with planers and Clarkspoons, but these fish are also a blast to catch early in the morning by casting jigs and even topwater plugs on light tackle. Late April is also the absolute best time of the year to target BIG blacktip sharks migrating north. The Hot Hole is the prime spot for fast and furious action. You can actually watch the sharks tailing in the white water. Cast a Spanish mackerel head on a short wire leader with a light-wire 7/0 or 8/0 circle hook, and you’re in business!

Offshore

When the water reaches the upper 60s, the first king mackerel will start showing up at spots like the Shark Hole, Horseshoe, and Christina’s Ledge. Slow-trolled dead cigar minnows or live pogies on a two-hook king rig will get some action.

By late April, the first cobia will start appearing in these same areas. Wrecks and artificial reefs are prime locations for cobia, as they love structure. Anchor up current of the wreck or reef, put out a chum bag, and

FISHING REPORT

bring the fish to you. You can use balloons or free-line live baits behind the boat for cobia to ambush. Also, keep a spinning rod rigged with a bucktail and large paddle tail handy for sight-casting when they come up around the boat.

Bottom fishing is in transition, with black sea bass moving farther offshore. They’ve been in the 50–75-foot range but are pushing out to deeper waters. Vermilion snapper will be in the 80–100-foot range. Grouper season opens May 1st, and we’re all looking forward to it!

Gulf Stream

April is definitely a transition month. While there are still some wahoos around, your best bet is targeting blackfin tuna. With nice weather, everyone is eager to get offshore and chase pelagic species.

There’s a reason I’m down south right now—April is unpredictable. Plenty of days, you’ll get offshore and find cold, green water. Just remember, the best is yet to come! April showers bring May mahi… or something like that.

If you do venture offshore to the break, take your jigging tackle. If the conditions

aren’t ideal, you can still have a great day jigging for tuna, big amberjacks, African pompano, etc. When trolling, run your baits way back and include cedar plugs, tuna feathers, and small ballyhoo.

Looking Ahead to May

The fishing will only get better! May is arguably the best month of the year for fishing in our area. Blue marlin make a great showing, mahi-mahi arrive in big numbers, wahoo fishing is fantastic, and there are some yellowfin and blackfin tuna around. Let’s go fishing!

Art Beat On The Cutting Edge Learn Knife Making From An Expert

STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

Brunswick Community College’s Southport Center has announced several exciting new classes for the upcoming summer and fall semesters, adding to its already diverse class schedule. One of the highlights is a knife-making course taught by the award-winning, renowned and skilled knife maker Ed VanHoy. This course promises to be a valuable experience for both beginners and seasoned artisans looking to refine their skills in metalwork and design.

VanHoy has dedicated most of his life to working in metal and turned his passion for the craft into a fulltime career. For 32 years, he has specialized in producing fine Stainless Steel Damascus Knives. His knives are fully functional and serve as cherished additions to personal collections. He runs his business, Stamascus Knife Works, along with his wife Tanya, who is also a skilled knife maker. VanHoy’s journey in the art world spans an impressive 50 years, from 1975 to the present. This extensive experience is a testament to his dedication and expertise in his craft.

VanHoy’s interest in knife making began

in high school, where he met his mentor, Harold Corby. “I am self-taught and have spent most of my life studying and perfecting my art. I started in 1975 and have been a full-time maker for the past 32 years alongside my wife, a knife maker and engraver. We went to Montgomery Community College and learned metal engraving from our teacher Jesse Houser.” He continued, “I have been teaching for the past 32 years at Montgomery Community College in Troy, NC, being the first to do so there. I also served on the board of the North Carolina Knife Makers Guild. I teach classes at Montgomery Community College, and there are several upcoming classes this year. I am still a full-time maker and ornamental metal artist. I work in my studio forge weekly and do several big shows yearly. We sell our knives at these shows.”

VanHoy is an experienced and skilled craftsman with many specialties, including custom cutler, knife maker, engraver, stainless steel Damascus maker, and ornamental blacksmith. He is also a designer and inventor of mechanisms several companies use in the knife industry.

“Cutlers and knife makers have been around since the beginning of time.

Blacksmiths held important positions in every town until about 100 years ago, making tools, machines, cooking, and eating utensils. Knives were one of the most used tools owned by every family then, and still today.”

Spending time surrounded by art and historical work brings inspiration to VanHoy’s work. “I am inspired by great works of art. I have had the opportunity to go to many shows in Paris, France, and have enjoyed spending time in museums like the Louvre and the Weapons and Knives Museum at the Army’s Health Service Museum in Paris. Also, great works of art in Oslo, Norway’s Viking Museums. My interest was also greatly influenced by movie knives.”

You can learn more about VanHoy’s classes at the Southport Center Campus, 701 N. Lord St., Southport, or call 910-7556500.

“The classes I will be instructing include knife making, stock removal, blade smithing, and ornamental blacksmithing. I hope to create a beginner’s class, followed by advanced classes later on,” he said.

To inquire about VanHoy’s work, you can email etvtdv@atmc.net or text him at 276791-2437. Samascus Knife Works Website www.stamascusknifeworks.com

BCC Knife-making Classes

Knife Making

“The class will be a hands on learning experience. It will cover basic design, methods of construction including stock removal, forging and finishing a knife. Students will gain an understanding and ability of using tools to include grinders, drill presses, forges, finishing handles and other detailed refinements. The classes will be run in a studio type style encouraging both individual art and functionality.”

Ornamental Blacksmithing

“The class will be a hands on learning experience. It will teach proper use of tools used in basic Blacksmithing with an emphasis on techniques used in the past and present. It will teach rounding, squaring, tapering, sculpted, curved and upsetting of hot forged steel, tools, hardware, and other ornamental designs. Students will be encouraged to explore the art of fire and steel.”

HISTORY

Confederate Hospitals

Cape Fear Civil War Round Table Meeting

STORY CONTRIBUTED

Wade

Sokolosky, Col. U.S. Army (Ret.), will present a program titled “North Carolina’s Confederate Hospitals” at the Thursday, April 10 meeting of the Cape Fear Civil War Round Table. The Round Table meets at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Wilmington. The meeting offers an opportunity to engage with the speaker both before and after the presentation and to ask questions in a friendly, informal setting. The meeting place is close to Hanover Center and Independence Mall. The doors open at 6:30 pm and the meeting begins at 7 pm.

A resident of the sound-side town of Beaufort, NC, where he grew up, Sokolosky is a graduate of East Carolina University and a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Army. He is one of North Carolina’s leading experts of the 1865 Carolinas Campaign, the name given to Union General William T. Sherman’s audacious march across both South Carolina and North Carolina in the winter of 1864-65. Wade has lectured throughout the country, speaking to Civil War round tables, various clubs and organizations, and at historical sites. He is a top-notch battlefield guide.

Col. Sokolosky’s topic, “Confederate

the state from four directions: Gen. Sherman driving up from the south with his powerful veteran army of more than 60,000 men, Union naval and ground forces reducing the “Confederate Goliath” of Fort Fisher and closing the port of Wilmington, powerful ground forces moving up the railroad from New Bern to Goldsboro and cavalry forces in the western part of the state.

Hospitals in North Carolina,” is based on his recently published book “North Carolina’s Confederate Hospitals, Vol. 2: 1864-65.” The first volume of Col. Sokolosky’s study covered the years 1861-63 and was published in 2022.

Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle, Jr., Professor Emeritus, UNC Wilmington, and one of the founders of the Cape Fear Civil War Round Table, wrote, “Wade Sokolosky, one of the leading historians of the Civil War in the Old North State, has turned his keen research skills on exploring the Confederate health care system.” Moreover, “he examines the organization and administration of care facilities on both the home front and the battlefront. Sokolosky’s study is a constructive reference work and a captivating narrative of an overlooked but important aspect of North Carolina at war.”

In an informative and very positive review of volume one, the Civil War Books and Authors website wrote: “As Sokolosky abundantly demonstrates, management of the hospital system in North Carolina during this period mirrored many other aspects of the Confederate war effort in that it was subjected to frequent and often intense States Rights versus centralization clashes. With North Carolina governor Vance being one of the most ardent defenders of state prerogatives, that tug and pull between Richmond and Raleigh was present at all levels of medical department leadership and

management. Who should manage, supply, and fund general hospitals in North Carolina was an ongoing subject of debate. As the war progressed, however, the forces of centralized integration gathered momentum, and by December 1863 the Confederate Medical Department was in charge of all of North Carolina’s general hospitals and the majority of its wayside hospitals.”

The current volume will cover the period of more centralized control and the period of greatest stress as the forces of the Union penetrated into

Wade is the co-author (with Mark A. Smith) of “To Prepare for Sherman’s Coming: The Battle of Wise’s Forks, March 1865,” chosen as the winner of the Civil War Books and Authors Best Book of the Year for 2015.

The battlefield of Wyse Fork (contemporary spelling), just east of Kinston, has been largely saved from imminent threat of destruction by the NC Department of Transportation, thanks in great part to the efforts of Sokolosky and a dedicated group of Civil War historians and preservationists centered on Kinston, which garnered support from the American Battlefield Trust and the federal Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.

Fought over three days in March after the fall of Wilmington and just before the Battle of Bentonville, Wyse Fork saw two hastily formed armies of heterogenous troops—the Confederates under Braxton Bragg and the Union under Jacob Cox—clash as part of a plan to halt Sherman’s northward march toward Goldsboro and, ultimately, the battlefields of Virginia. More than 2,500 casualties were sustained. In the early 1990s, the Federal Civil War Sites Advisory Commission surveyed some 10,500 armed conflicts during the Civil War and published a report that classified the encounters according to their historical significance. Of the 10,500 sites surveyed, Wyse Fork was listed as one of the I noticed all the azaleas popping out in color on the island this week and thought I’d head over to Franklin

Confederate General Hospital Number 5 was previously the U.S. Marine Hospital for Seamen, located in Wilmington on S. 8th St.

HISTORY

Square Park to grab a cover photo for the April issue. I guess the climate of Southport and the island are different enough that the big azaleas there weren’t quite blooming yet. There were some smaller ones near Franklin Square Gallery out, though, and while I was shooting them, a City of Southport employee walked up and we got to chatting about how it would be not too long before the park was full of blooms. He asked if I’d seen the cherry tree in Lowe White Park and showed

me a photo on his phone. It was amazing, and I immediately drove over and snapped this month’s cover photo. Our community has some of the prettiest parks around, and the people who take care of them deserve our thanks. They are proud, and rightfully so, of the work they do and love our parks as much as anyone. So next time you see one of those park keepers out taking care of our treasures, be sure to stop and thank them — they make our community great!

MARKETPLACE

HOMES/LAND FOR SALE

268 BONNET WAY | $285,000. Easy living in this one-level 3 bedroom, 2 bath townhome in popular Bonnet Way - just a short distance to downtown Southport, area beaches, shopping and dining. All outside maintenance including the lawn is maintained by HOA. The open living room/ dining room area has a vaulted ceiling, gas log fireplace and an enclosed sunroom. This home has a split floor plan with a large master bedroom and full bath on one side and 2 additional bedrooms and a full bath on the other. There is also an attached one-car garage.  Call Verilyn McKee, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-0527.

3120 GEORGE II HWY | $749,000. Prime Commercial Opportunity in Boiling Spring Lakes! Strategically positioned at the busiest intersection in Boiling Spring Lakes, this 3,795 SF heated commercial property sits on a high-visibility 1.52-acre corner lot at the traffic light of Highway 87 (George II Hwy) and W Boiling Spring Road. Boasting 262 feet of road frontage along Highway 87 and accessibility from three different roads-Highway 87, W Boiling Spring Road, and Sunset Road-this property offers unparalleled exposure to passing traffic and potential customers. With ample paved parking, paved driveways, 1.5 bathrooms, and a rear bay garage door, this versatile space can accommodate a variety of businesses, from retail and office use to service-based industries and more. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to secure a high-traffic, high-visibility commercial property in one of the fastest-growing areas of Brunswick County. Call Myles Williams, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 457-7676.

612-B

W. BROWN STREET

|

2 BED

| 2 BATH | $435,000 Premium location! This immaculate, furnished condo is located in the quiet and peaceful neighborhood of The Village at Southport. This unit has an open floor plan with a sizable kitchen, dining area, living room, and an open deck that overlooks the community pool. The two bedrooms each have adjoining bathrooms and there is a separate laundry area. Assigned parking that can accommodate 2 cars can be found on the ground level along with a private storage room, and a central elevator. All exterior landscaping/maintenance is handled by the HOA. The location offers easy access to Morning Star Marina, and downtown for shopping, galleries, museums, restaurants, and enjoying the Cape Fear River views. Don’t miss out as these condos don’t come on the market often! Call Katherine Hufham, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-4045.

752 INDIGO VILLAGE COURT B-2 | 2 BED | 2.5 BATH | $349,900 This beautifully updated, low maintenance, unit leaves nothing to be desired. Recent renovations include new flooring upstairs, new refrigerator, quartz countertops, tiled backsplash, paint, light fixtures, tiled master bath shower, and updated vanities in both upstairs bathrooms, plus an updated powder room. The quaint lifestyle of Historic Southport is within your reach with this affordably priced property. Not only does Indigo Plantation have a marina, but there is also tennis, walking trails, and a saltwater swimming pool along with a clubhouse. Imagine living here year-round or using this property as your weekend retreat! Call Verilyn McKee, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-0527.

Chamber News

Fashion With Friends

The

2nd Annual Fashion with Friends runway show will take place on Thursday, May 1st beginning at 5pm in the St. James Community Center, 4136 Southport-Supply Road. The fashion show will highlight nine local boutiques and outfitters in the Southport-Oak Island area including Boo & Roos, Cattail Cottage, Dainty Fire Boutique, Hive Sweet Home, Ocean Outfitters/Southport Market, The Pearl, River Road Animal Hospital, Southport Beauty Bar, and Styled by Tracy, Independent Cabi Stylist.

Fashion with Friends will also be an entertaining social experience with dinner, dessert, swag bag, and gift basket drawings. To honor the memory of Ann Hollingworth and to embrace a Kentucky Derby theme, attendees are encouraged to wear an embellished hat. Adding to the fun, there will be a best hat contest and The Booze Buggy will be serving wine and a signature Watermelon Mint Mimosa.

Tickets are $70.00 per person, or a table for eight people for $520. Tickets may be purchased until Monday, April 28th online or at one of the locations listed at www.fashionwithfriendssptoki.com.

“The Fashion with Friends event is an excellent opportunity to see spring trends, learn about our local boutiques and outfitters shops and have a great time connecting with new friends” said Karen Sphar, executive vice president of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce. “Fashion with Friends was created by the chamber to expand opportunities for the local business community to connect with potential customers in our area.”

The Fashion with Friends is an event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce is sponsored by The Apothecary at St. James, Cape Fear Fitness, Cumulus Media, Edward Jones - Teresa Carroll, CFP®, AAMSTM, CRPCTM, Sea la Vie Travel, Shoresound Productions, and Swanson Realty, For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.fashionwithfriendssptoki.com, call 910-457-6964, or email info@southport-oakisland.com.

Meals To Go At April Business Networking After Hours

On Thursday, April 10, Dosher Memorial Hospital will host a Chamber of Commerce Business Networking After Hours event from 5:30 pm – 7 pm. Guests will meet in the Dosher Café for a meal prep party where they will be given the ingredients and packaging to prepare a dinner that they can take home and cook at their convenience. The dish that guests create will contain ingredients that are associated with meals included in the Mediterranean Diet, a way of eating that emphasizes plant-based foods and healthy fats. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the Mediterranean Diet has many health benefits, such as lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack or stroke, and supports a healthy body weight. The quality of the food we eat is an important component in our overall well-being, and this event is a way for Dosher to support guests in their health journeys through a fun and social activity. Refreshments will be served while attendees prep their meals.

SPOTTINGS

The 4‑H Youth in Action Club is marking National Nutrition Week in a unique way by immersing themselves in the 4‑H Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). These young members are gaining valuable skills that promote life long healthy eating and cooking practices.

On March 8, club members participated in engaging sessions where they learned and practice essential food safety techniques, honed their knife skills, and mastered the art of recipe reading and cooking preparation. The interactive session also included a focus on what it takes to make a Smart Snack decision—a key step toward develop ing healthier eating habits. Mrs. Angie, the program facilitator, is using the NC EFNEP curriculum Fuel for Life to guide hese learning experiences. “Our goal is to empower these young individuals with the knowledge and skills to make healthy choices, move mindfully, and safely navigate the kitchen,” she said. “Through these hands‑on activi ties, we’re not only celebrating National Nutrition Week but also laying the foundation for a lifetime of wellness.”

For more information about the 4‑H or EFNEP program or to learn how to get involved, pleasecontact us at 910 253 2610 or email Angie Lawrence, nutrition educator angie_lawrence@ncsu.edu

Dosher Memorial Hospital marked a significant milestone in Phase 1 of their Master Facility Plan with a beam signing ceremony on Monday March 17th. Hospital staff and leaders gathered to sign the last struc tural beam to be placed in Dosher’s new Emergency Department, with completion expected in late 2025. The construction of a new Emergen cy Department was first announced in April 2023 along with several other hospital and clinic expansion and renovation projects, and site preparations began in early 2024. The new Emergency Department will be 8,000 square feet, doubling the size of the current Emergency Department, and will increase current treatment spaces from 10 to 14, including 9 beds and 5 vertical care chairs to streamline wait times and care for patients of lower acuity.

The signing of the last beam is a time honored tradition in the con struction world that is said to bring good fortune to future occupants of a building. Said Dosher President and CEO Lynda Stanley, “The signing of the last beam commemorates our progress and is a gesture of the shared vision we have for the future of healthcare in our com munity. I am touched by the messages of kindness and inspiration that were left by our dedicated team members on the beam and am grateful that the Master Facility Plan upgrades will enable us to meet the growing needs of our service area.”

To stay up to date with Dosher Emergency Department construction and other Master Facility Plan projects, go to Dosher.org/MFP.

You’llCALENDAR

notice that our Calendar is bigger and carries more information from all of Brunswick County. We publish three magazines — Leland Magazine, Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine, and Southport Magazine. We love collecting details about all the of the fun events from all across our county and thought that everyone in the county, no matter which magazine they read, should be able to see all of the opportunities our community offers. We hope you’ll find something unexpected in this month’s Calendar and we really encourage you to hop in the car and go to something you’ve never experienced before.

April

APRIL 1

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

Sarah Bierle, researcher, author, and managing editor of Emerging Civil War will present “John Pelham: Trained at West Point but Aiming Artillery for the Confederacy.” As an artillery officer, he was instrumental in creating the concept of horse artillery. The group meets at Hatch Auditorium at Fort Caswell; doors open at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Anyone can attend; the cost is $10 for non-members but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues

APRIL 2

Operation Medicine Cabinet — Dosher Memorial Hospital

Drop off unused and expired medication safely with Dosher Memorial Hospital’s medicine collection, from 9 am to 1 pm. Drive through drop off is at the hospital’s main entrance, 924 N. Howe St., Southport.

APRIL 3

Beach Ball — Ocean Isle

The Ocean Isle Museum Foundation will award the Louise Ingram Caretaker Award to Ocean Isle Beach Mayor Debbie Smith and the featured speaker is David W. Brown, author of “The Mission

Exploration of Jupiter’s Ocean Moon, Europa.” Attendees can wear their coolest coastal cocktail attire, enjoy drinks and dinner with friends, and learn a little about our coastal environment and our universe. The festivities will be hosted at The Tides at Bricklanding, 1882 Goosecreek Road SW, Ocean Isle Beach. Tickets are $125; visit https:// museumplanetarium.org/event/beach-

ball-2025/.

APRIL 4-6 AND 11-13

Amuzu on Broadway

Singers, dancers and musicians bring Broadway favorites to Southport at the Historic Amuzu Theatre (111 N. Howe St. in Southport). Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees are at 3 pm. Tickets are $25 and are available at Rickey Evans Gallery in Southport and at Crossroads Gathering Place on Oak Island.

APRIL 5

Community Yard Sale — Belville

Belville residents can do a little spring cleaning and sell gently-used housewares, books, clothing, toys, etc. (no crafts). Register at https://belvillepr. recdesk.com/Community. The sale is 7 am to noon at Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road SE.

APRIL 5

Town Clean Sweep — Varnamtown

Meet at Town Hall (00 Varnamtown Road) at 8:30 am. Gloves, vests and trash bags will be provided, but participants are encouraged to use their own trucks or golf carts. There will be free breakfast biscuits for participants.

APRIL 8

Meet the Authors — Southport

This event at Harper Library (109 W. Moore St.) features two authors. Roger Anderson penned “the Immigrant’s Journey,” and Garry Brown wrote “What He Was Born to Do.” Meet the authors and discuss their books, 4 pm at the library.

APRIL 8

Southport Historical Society — 2nd Tuesday Talk

Stuart Callari, co-founder of Brunswick Little Theatre, will speak about the theatre’s history. The talk is at 10 am at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St. This program is free, but reservations are encouraged; call 910-457-6237.

APRIL 10

Community Survey and Open House — Leland

The Leland Tourism Development Authority is working on it strategic plan for the future of tourism in the town, and residents and visitors are invited to participate (see story in this month’s issue of Leland Magazine). The Open House will be from 10 am to 2 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way; an online survey is also available.

APRIL

10

Moonlight Paddle - Leland

This nighttime paddle will cross the Intracoastal Waterway to Masonboro Island. There, paddlers will walk across the island to watch the Pink Moon rise over the ocean. The paddle back will be under the bright moonlight. Supplies are included, and beginners are welcome. The tour is scheduled for 4:30 to 7:30 pm.

APRIL 11

Family Movie Night — Southport

Take the whole family to a showing of “Peter Rabbit,” at 7-ish on the Garrison Lawn, 203 E. Bay St. A half hour before the movie, there will be a contest for the best rabbit face mask or face painting, with prizes awarded in various age categories.

APRIL 11

“Caribbean Night” on Private Southport Estate

Caribbean theme with live music, delicious dinner cuisine with Caribbean flavors and wine/beer/and themed cocktail. The event, running 6-9 pm, will also feature live auction & raffle items with numerous high-end prizes such as a golf outing for four at BHI, a Bozzy Bourbon Box and an original painting by renowned artist Karen Scott. Tickets can be purchased at FriendsNC-

MMSouthport.com/Benefit. Benefits the NC Maritime Museum at Southport.

APRIL 12

America 250th: Women of Brunswick — Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson Enjoy living history demonstrations that focus on the women who worked and lived at the Port of Brunswick. Get a chance to see what their life was like and dive into a new perspective of our local history. This is a free event for all ages, 10 am to 4 pm at the historic site, 8884 Saint Philips Road SE, Winnabow (off NC 133).

APRIL 12

Kiwanis Club Duck Derby

The Kiwanis Club launches this fundraising event, Dinah E. Gore Sports & Aquatics Complex at Brunswick Community College in Bolivia. Ducks are $5 each or five for $20, and the racing starts at 1 pm. A maximum of 2,500 ducks will be sold, and there will be awards of $500 to the winning duck, $250 to the second-place finisher, $100 for third, and a “lame duck” prize of a $25 gift card will be given to the duck that finishes last. Proceeds will benefit the Kiwanis Club programs, which focus on helping children in Brunswick County.

APRIL 12

Kids Day at the Park — Southport

Kids will have fun at this hands-on, art-making fair for children of all ages. This free event is 10 am to 2 pm, adjacent to the Franklin Square Gallery and Franklin Square Park in Southport). The Associated Artists of Southport will turn the space into an outdoor art studio, and children can try their hands at flower pot painting and planting, face painting, bracelet making, kite making, visor decorating, origami, polymer clay sculpting and bubble blowing. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

APRIL 12

Wings & Wheels — Oak Island

The local Experimental Aircraft Association invites all to view aircraft displays and classic cars at the Cape Fear Regional Jetport on Long Beach Road, just on the mainland side of Oak Island’s Barbee Bridge. Pancake breakfasts will be available from 8:30-11 am, lunch will be available for purchase from 11:30 am

Easter Egg Hunts

April 12

Belville Riverwalk Park — 580 River Road SE.

This annual Egg Scramble is for children through age 12, and no registration is needed. There will be face painting, food trucks and music, starting at 9 am at the park.

Calabash Community Park — 868 Persimmon Road

There will be music and face painting, and selfies with the Easter Bunny, 11 am to 1 pm.

Mulberry Park, Shallotte--123 Mulberry Street

Easter Eggstavaganza Egg Hunt, 9-10 am with three age groups and pictures with the Easter Bunny

Leland Cultural Arts Center — 1212 Magnolia Village Way

Children ages 10 and younger can follow the bunny trail to explore community booths and get a picture with the Easter Bunny; egg hunts start every 45 minutes. This Eggspedition is from 10 am to 1 pm.

Oak Island’s Bill Smith Park--4410 Fish Factory Road

Children 10 and younger can hint for eggs in their age groups, 10 am to noon. There will also be an opportunity for photos. Dogs have their own hunt too, starting at 11:30 am.

Southport’s Franklin Square Park, 130 E. West St. The egg hunt begins at 10 am.

Boiling Spring Lakes -- 1 Leeds Road

Visit the Community Center from 10 am to 1 pm for the Easter Egg Eggstravaganza, including the egg hunt, followed by temporary tattoos, gift basket drawings and pictures with the Easter Bunny.

April 18

Holden Beach nighttime egg hunt — 110 Rothschild St. Teams of four will compete against each other. Participants will need to bring their own flashlights to the event and something to place their eggs in. Participants must register by April 7th. Space is limited to the first 100 families. Email christy.ferguson@hbtownhall. com to register. Check-in on the evening of the event will be on the sidewalk in front of Town Hall.

April 19

City of Northwest Park — 4891 Vernon Road

Enjoy food, pictures with the Easter Bunny and search for eggs! The event is 11 am to 1 pm, and the egg hunt is at noon.

to 1 pm, and the classic cars awards will be handed out at 2 pm.

APRIL 17

Coffee with a Cop — Oak Island

Meet with some of the Oak Island Police Department’s finest at Jumpin’ Java, 4022 Old Bridge Road. Ask questions, share concerns, or just enjoy a niche cup of coffee and some conversation, 9-11 am.

APRIL 19

18th Century Easter Litany — Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson

Celebrate Easter with a period Anglican service in the ruins of St. Philips Church. Visitors will be welcomed to the site starting at 6:45 am, and the service begins at 6:45 am. Seating is not provided, but attendees may bring their own chairs. The site will remain

open until 5 pm.

APRIL 19

Springfest — Southport

Head to downtown Southport for Springfest, featuring live musical entertainment, handmade arts and crafts, children’s activities, plants for sale, and delicious food vendors. Springfest is from 10 am to 6 pm.

APRIL

21 - 25

Free Cleanup Week at the Brunswick County Landfill, 172 Landfill Road NE, Bolivia. Hours are 7:30 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday and 7:30 to 3 pm on Saturday. Regular household trash and hazardous waster will not be accepted; visit https://www.brunswickcountync. gov/419/Free-Cleanup-Week for more details.

APRIL 25

Par-Tee at the Barn

The North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual event at The Golf Barn (7 Bell Swamp Connection, NE, Winnabow, off U.S. 17), back this year after a hiatus. Check in and business networking starts at 1 pm, and the event includes a round of min-golf, and turns in the golf simulator, food, beverages and prizes! The festivities wrap up after 5 pm with more time for socializing and networking. The entry fee is $50 per person or $200 for a team of four. Visit https://northbrunswickchamber.com/golf/ to register.

APRIL

26

Earth Day Festival — Oak Island

Enjoy informational booths, interactive play opportunities, and more at the Middleton Park fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive. There will also be live oak sapling giveaways at Bill Smith Park (4410 Fish Factory Road SE) and a tree dedication there at 2 pm.

APRIL 26

A Taste of Calabash

Sample tasty dishes all through Calabash, the “Seafood Capital of the World.” Buy a $10 wristband and eat your way through town, 11 am to 6 pm. Wristbands will be available for purchase starting at 10:30 am, cash only, at the Calabash Community Park, 868 Persimmon Road. The event also features arts and crafts vendors and music from DJ Joe Cool.

APRIL 26

America 250th: Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea — Sailors and Tar Workers in the 18th Century History comes to life and includes a comprehensive view of maritime history along the Cape Fear, the history of Naval Stores production along the Cape Fear, and eighteenth century trades that are relevant to maritime history and sailing. This living history event is 10 am to 4 pm at the Brunswick Town/ Fort Anderson State Historic Site, 8884 Saint Philips Road SE, Winnabow (off NC 133).

APRIL 26

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

Join the Cape Fear Cruisers from 8:30 am to 3 pm along S. Howe and Bay Streets as they show off a collection of classic cars and trucks.

APRIL 26

Spring Art Market

Find unique works from local artists and crafters at Leland’s spring market, at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way. The market is 10 am to 3 pm.

APRIL 26-27

Days at the Dock Festival-Holden Beach

Enjoy two days of craft and food vendors, live music and all sorts oif fun on Holden Beach along the waterway

APRIL 27

Red White and Blue Shrimparoo — Southport

The N.C. Fourth of July Festival invites the community to the Red, White & Blue Shrimparoo, from 4 to 7 pm at The American Fish Company (150 Yacht Basin) in Southport. Sponsored by Frying Pan and American Fish Company, the Shrimparoo will feature shrimp prepared in various ways, chicken, barbecue pork and all the trimmings. There will be a cash bar and live performance by the band The Doorsmen. Tickets are $55 per person in advance or $450 for a bulk purchase of ten tickets. All proceeds from this event will benefit this year’s festival, which will be held from June 27 through July 4 in Southport and Oak Island.

APRIL 27

Strawberry & Wine Fest — Sunset Beach

The Old Bridge Historical Society hosts the annual Strawberry & Wine Fest at Sunset Beach Town Park, 206 Sunset Blvd North (mainland side). The festival is noon to 5 pm at the park, and includes vendors, good food and music from local favorite, Mike’s Garage Band. Pro tip from the publishers: get there early to make sure you get a slice of the Society’s strawberry shortcake.

CALENDAR

APRIL 28

Oak Island Lighthouse Information Session — Barbee Library (Oak Island)

Learn the history and some of the interesting characteristics of the Oak Island Lighthouse, which, by the way, is on the island but in the Town of Caswell Beach. The program is 3-4 pm at Barbee Library, 8200 E. Oak Island Drive. A second program is scheduled for May 1, also from 3-4 pm.

MAY 1

Fashion With Friends

The Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce’s Fashion with Friends event is on Thursday, May 1, at the Town of St. James Homer E. Wright Event Center (4136 Southport-Supply Road). The evening will feature resort wear fashions from of our local boutiques; there will also be door Prizes, contests and a raffle, a swag bag, dinner and drinks. It’s a Kentucky Derby themed event, so wear your best derby inspired hat. Call 910-76964 for more information.

MAY 3

Brunswick Community Baby Shower

Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center is hosting a free baby shower for new and expectant mothers in Brunswick County. The hospital is inviting several community nonprofits to participate in the event. Vendors will give out clothing, diapers, toys, toiletries and more. Parents can also learn about breastfeeding and have a car seat safety check. You can help new mothers by donating new, unopened items including: bibs, books, bottles, clothing (newborn to 2T), diaper rash cream, sippy cups, toiletries, toys, walkers, wipes! Drop off donations by May 1; contact 910-7211450 for more information. The event is 9-11 am at the hospital, 240 Hospital Drive, Bolivia.

MAY 3

Founders Day — Belville

Join the Town in celebrating Founders Day, 10 am to 3 pm at Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road SE.

MAY 3

Seafood Festival — Oak Island

This delicious event includes a Peel&-Eat Shrimp Competition, cooking demonstration, education events, a

craft and artisan market, food trucks, and live music by The Ford Project. The festival is noon to 5 pm at the Middleton park Fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive.

MAY 3

Wilmington Cape Fear Rose Society Rose Garden Tour

This year’s tour includes two locations in Brunswick County — one in Brunswick Forest and one in Magnolia Greens. The tour is free, 9 to 5 pm in the various garden locations; meet with the garden owners and learn more about how to grow these lovely blooms in our area. Visit https://www.wcfrs.org/rosetour.html for a list of garden locations.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

701 N. Third St., Wilmington

April 11 — Iron & Wine, American singer-songwriter Sam Beam

April 14 — Our Planet Live, a natural history speaker series featuring Sophie Lanfear

April 15 — Beth Hart

April 21 — “Clue,” part of the PNC Broadway series

April 25 — Larry the Cable Guy

April 26 — “Menopause The Musical 2”

April 27 — The Wilmington Choral Society presents Welcomes, Blessings, & Benedictions

May 2 — Sesame Street Live! Say Hello

May 3 — The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra performs Errante: A Celebration Symphony, celebrating longtime music director Steven Errante’s final performance with the group.

Visit https://wilsoncentertickets.com for more information.

Thalian Hall

310 Chestnut St., Wilmington

April 4-13 — Thalian Community Association presents “Mary Poppins”

April 10 — Comedian Darren Carter

April 18 — Forward Motion Dance presents a showcase of local talent

April 19 — Kanekoa

April 24 — No Quarter (a Led Zeppelin tribute band)

April 26 — The Drifters

May 9 — Gaspard & Dancers

May 16-25 — “Legally Blonde” by the Thalian Association Community Theatre

May 22 — Cathy Ladman

Check https://www.thalianhall.org/ calendar for more information.

Greenfield lake Amphitheater

1941 Amphitheater Drive, Wilmington

April 10 — Judah & The Lion - The Process Tour

April 11 — Shadowgrass and Clay Street Unit

April 12 — Connor Smith and Dylan Marlowe

April 19 — Marcus King Band Goes to School: The Tour

April 20 — Keller Williams’ Grateful Gospel featuring Gibb Droll

April 22 — Alo - Frames Tour

April 25 — Loud Music Company

April 26 — Saint Motel - The Symphony in the Sky Tour

April 27 — Evan Honer

May 2 — The Dead South

Visit greenfieldlakeamphitear.com for more information.

Live Oak Bank Pavilion

10 Cowan St., Wilmington

April 24 — Zach Top: Cold Beer & Country Music Tour

April 26 — Alison Krauss and Union Station

OPEN AIR MARKETS

Barn & Beach Designs

4880 Old Long Beach Road

April’s Barnfield Market is on the 12th, 9 am to 3 pm, and there will be music and food on site too!

Sunset Beach Town Park

206 Sunset Blvd North

The Market opens for the season April 17, and is held from 9 am to 1 pm on Thursdays at the park (on the mainland by the bridge).

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road, Bel-

ville

Shop for produce, ice cream, and fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River. Hours are Fridays 11 am to 5:30 pm; Saturdays 10 am to 5:30 pm; and Sundays 10 am to 4 pm.

Craft Fair — Varnamtown

100 Varnamtown Road

Shop for gifts for some special or yourself at Varnamtown’s Craft Fair. The Fair is 10 am to 3 pm on May 3 at the Varnamtown Town Hall.

Southport Summer Market

Waterfront Park, E. Bay Street

The summer market starts up for the season on May 7 and runs Wednesdays through August (except the week of July 4). The market’s hours are 10 am to 4 pm, weather permitting.

ONGOING EVENTS

Friends of the Library Southport & Oak Island

The Libraries are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 6 pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am - 6 pm; and Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm. The Once More used bookstore, at Southport Realty (727 N. Howe St.), with new-to-you books, is open Monday through Friday from 11 am to 3 pm and Saturdays 10 am to noon. Visit https:// folsoi.org/blog/ for information on summer youth programs.

Barbee Library, 8200 E. Oak Island Drive: Call 910-278-4283 for details on children’s story time and other programs. The Lifelong Learners Group meets at 10 am on Thursdays and the Socrates Cafe meets Mondays at 9:30 am.

Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., Southport: Call 910-457-6237 to register for programs. One-on-one tech support is offered on Thursdays, 1-3 pm.

NC Maritime Museums - Southport

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 March Deep Dive Into History program is March 29, 10 am to 3 pm. Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com

CALENDAR

to register for special programs.

Historic Bike Tours in Southport

Tour historic Southport on bike with the Adventure Kayak Company, Inc. Tours can be for parties of four or more. Call 910-454-0607 or visit www.theadventurecompany.net.

Oak Island Recreation Department

Join the Striders Club at various locations and dates/times to get out and about with a group or try your hand at art with the Paintbrush Academy. There are book clubs, kayak tours in the Davis Canal, surf fishing lessons, and much more. Visit https://parksrec.egov. basgov.com/oakislandnc for details on programs.

Franklin Square Art Gallery

The Gallery is open 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday and can be found at 130 E. West St., next to Franklin Square Park.

First Friday Gallery Walk — Southport

The First Friday Gallery Walk is 5-7 pm in Southport at participating galleries, such as Lantana’s, The Rickey Evans Gallery, the Franklin Square Art Gallery, Artisans on Howe and the Intracoastal Realty Downtown Southport Office. Stroll along and browse in the shops to see what local artists have to offer.

Bingo at the Elks Lodge — Oak Island

Bingo games are 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 6:30 pm. Snacks and drinks available for purchase (cash or checks only). Winner take all coverall.

Battleship North Carolina — near Leland

Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year, such as Memorial Day observances, Battleship 101 (March 8), Hidden Battleship for a behind-the-scenes tour (March 22) and more. Visit https://battleshipnc. com/. The battleship site is at 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington (west side of

the Cape Fear River).

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road, Belville

Shop for produce, ice cream, and fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River. Hours are Fridays 11 am to 5:30 pm; Saturdays 10 am to 5:30 pm; and Sundays 10 am to 4 pm. The market re-opens in midMarch.

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson

State Historic Site

8884 St. Philips Rd. SE, Winnabow

There is plenty to do and see, with a museum, 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. Guided tours are now available, at 10 am on Fridays and Saturdays; the cost is $5.

Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach

The Museum is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Touch tank feedings are 11 am to noon on Thursdays.

Ingram Planetarium

7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach

The Planetarium is open Thursdays through Saturdays; dome shows start on the hour from 11 am to 3 pm. Laser shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 6 pm and 7 pm. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule, including special holiday shows.

Leland Library

487 Village Road NE

Baby storytime is at 10 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and Pre-K and older storytime is at 11 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

4th Friday Art Market

Shop among 30-plus vendors, eat, dance and enjoy spending time with friends and neighbors at this monthly market next to Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar (1175 Turlington Avenue, in Brunswick Forest). The market is open from 4-8 pm.

Town

of Leland/Parks & Recreation

Check out https://www.townofleland.com/parks-recreation-and-cultural-resources for more information on classes and programs, including starting an art journal, pottery, gardening, writing creative nonfiction, acting, dance and more.

Art League of Leland (ALL) at the Leland Cultural Arts Center

The group welcomes artists of all kinds and meets monthly (except in summer months) 4-6 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.