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The Dog Days of Summer
This month we visit what may be the coolest place in town for refrshing, and healthy, treats. OTB Nutrition is open and serving up a huge menu of shakes, smoothies and teas that will cool you down without bulking you up. We also spoke to the president of Leland’s new live threatre troupe, the Over The River Theatre Company. Maybe you saw their debut performance of “The Compelte History of America (Abridged),” but if you missed it, they have plenty more planned, and they are looking for help!
And if you or a loved one are a veteran of the Vietnam War, be sure to read about the Blue Star Mothers’ efforts to honor these veterans with a special commerative pin.
Of course we have our regular columns on fishing, golf and fitness. We hope you are enjoying them as much as we are.
Coolest Place In Town
OTB Nutrition Now Offering Healthy Treats
STORY BY JAN MORGAN-SWEGLE, PHOTOS BY TONY SWEGLE
There is no denying that North Carolina is hot, hot, hot in the summer. Even with a steady breeze, if it’s a 96-degree temperature breeze, it still doesn’t help. It seems like the warmer it gets, the less energy I have, which means I am less active and tend to gain weight. And the older I get, the harder it is to lose the weight.
But OTB Nutrition, short for “Over the Bridge,” located at 2163 Britton Road in Harrington Square (near CVS on Village Road) showed me how I can change.
OTB Nutrition opened for business on May 20 and has been offering some solutions, not only to beat the heat, but for achieving and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.
I was quick to judge the word “nutrition” in my mind by expecting OTB to have that moldy product smell
that sometimes permeates dusty, dark health food stores in the mall.
I was wrong.
Heather Lane, owner of OTB, has made sure that the environment is open, full of light and inviting. Menu offerings take up most of the space near the bar. A couch and two chairs look out toward a patio area with a fountain where you can sit and enjoy yourself with a refreshing drink. A neon sign over the kitchen shouts, “Pouring out Love.” There is an area that seats four near the back door where
you can sit and enjoy lively music, or head out to sit on the patio under an umbrella.
The basics on the menu are healthy, plant-based shakes and “beauty” teas. Among many other things, they also offer iced coffee, hot protein oat snacks like apple cinnamon, banana bread and maple brown sugar. These are meal replacement and refresher drinks and snacks that can help lower your daily calorie intake.
The menu seems endless, with different kinds of flavors and options.
This is more than a nutrition-filled bakery and shake shop. It’s an adventure that can fit any lifestyle or help you achieve a new one. Never one for anything other than a fatty chocolate milkshake, I took the plunge and tried a “Death by Chocolate,” a meal replacement with chocolate bits on top. Included in the price of the shake was a
Biz Feature
16-ounce cup of tea, filled with antioxidants, and ingredients meant to boost your metabolism. The shake was cool and sweet, and I didn’t feel heavy like I do after having a regular milkshake. On another visit, I tried a swirled Mocha Latte that I swore was from a fancy coffee shop.
Heather said, “I want to give people the results they are looking for in a fun place. Whether it’s weight loss, eating and drinking something that’s healthier than they usually have or just to relax, you can find it here.” And as a few customers came over from Truist Bank, during their morning coffee break, it seemed like Heather achieved her goal. They raved, “It’s therapeutic here, you can take a few minutes out of your day to catch a breath and gear up for what’s next on your schedule. The drinks are fantastic and give you a real en-
ergy boost. The décor is beautiful, the area is comfortable, and you meet all kinds of new people here.”
I asked Heather if people really want to eat healthy. “Yes and no,” she said. “People do want to eat healthy; they just don’t want to put the work into making what they feel are healthy snacks and food. You don’t have to do that — eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard to do. What we have at OTB appeals to a wide variety of people because we offer a wide variety of products — not just those who are fitness conscious, but moms and kids out for a walk, seniors and even teenagers.”
“The word ‘healthy’ means
Biz Feature
different things to different people,” Heather said. “When you have small children, it’s not good for them to have sugar-based drinks all of the time. It’s not good for their body and certainly not for their teeth. What I offer is balanced nutrition. When I am serving children, I modify the ingredients so that I cut the amount of protein in half or more, depending on the age of the child. And they love it. It’s good to drink and looks and tastes like dessert.”
As many new business owners have found, Leland is a great place to be. “I have received such positive vibes from the community,” Heather said. “Everyone has expressed excitement that there is a healthy food option in the neighborhood. Word of mouth is huge in Leland. New people come in all of the time and tell me they are here because one of their friends tried one of our shakes and really enjoyed it, so they want to try it as well.
“I want the Town of Leland to know that opening this place isn’t just about me. It’s about my family and helping others,” she continued.
“I have done this for 10 years and it’s an amazing opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. This is about collaborating with people and helping them. My son, Michael, works here and I hope that he sees that we are helping others do something positive for themselves. I’m excited to see what’s next. I want to become a staple in the community — a place where you can hang out. I want to cheer people on as they change their lives by changing what they eat. Nutrition isn’t boring. We offer things that are refreshing and fun.’
My husband and I have watched the landscape of Leland change over 13 years. It used to be a place with a bank, a dry cleaner, a fast-food chain location, a breakfast place, and a gas station. And then we started to grow, and grow quickly. After that, we saw an increase in storage places and apartment buildings. But what I see in OTB is a trend that I hope will continue in Leland — a fun place that adds value to our residents by helping them help themselves. A place that offers good products at reasonable prices. A clean, modern bright
place to spend some time and relax. A place to meet an upbeat woman with a mission and her son, an attractive, funny young man, who supports his mother’s dream to make a difference.
OTB is open from 6 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday and 6 am to 2 pm on Saturday. You can call
Heather at 910-834-2064 or check out OTB’s Instagram page at otb_ nutrition.
Showcase Live Theatre In Leland
Meet The Over The River Theatre Company
STORY BY JAN MORGAN-SWEGLE, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Whenmy husband and I moved to North Carolina from the Cleveland, Ohio area many years ago, we found Leland lacking in one major thing for us — live entertainment. You can say what you want about Cleveland, but we had the Cleveland Symphony orchestra and Playhouse Square, the biggest theatre district between New York City and Chicago. So this is something we missed. Once in a while, we would travel to Wilmington to catch a movie, but for the most part we relied on DVDs and home entertainment.
But, thanks to the efforts of Michael Schottle and his Over the River Theatre Company, we can now enjoy quality entertainment in the form of live stage productions right here in Leland.
“My wife and I have been in Leland for about a year,” Schottle said. “All it took was one big snowstorm when we lived in New Hampshire to help us decide that we needed to move to a warmer place. Once we settled on moving to North Carolina we checked out the Asheville area near the mountains, but quickly decided we moved away from cold and snow, why move to the same kind of weather? We looked in Raleigh and places around Winston-Salem and then thought about Wilmington, near the ocean. Our realtor found a great house in Leland, so we went to look at it. My wife, Diana, just fell in love with the place. While I was talking
to the realtor downstairs, she was upstairs measuring rooms and mentally placing furniture!
“Leland is a great place to establish a community theatre company,” he continued. “The support we have received here is amazing. With the support of the Brunswick Arts Council and the Leland Cultural Arts Center we were able to put on our inaugural show in Leland on June 27, “The Complete History of America, (abridged.)” It was a satirical look at how this country came about. We made fun of historical events and our founding fathers. The audience loved it. We got a standing ovation. Of course, there were a few people who didn’t like us poking fun at our Presidents, but overall, it was a success. These days you have to be care ful when you are selecting material that was written many years ago. We have to be aware of issues and be reasonably po litically correct in what we put on — it’s a fine line to walk.
“We tend to stay away from musicals because they are so expensive to put on, but that may change in the future,” Schottle said. “We also try to stay away from stuff that has been done to death. We want to provide Leland with good entertainment by putting on things that have name recognition to the audience and material that is truly entertaining. I love community theatre, I’ve been doing it for over 25 years. I’m like a lot of people who get involved with a communi-
Michael Shottle, Over The River’s President
ty theatre group. I had a friend in high school who was in a play. He talked me into auditioning for a non-speaking role — pretty much just a face in the crowd. I did it and really enjoyed it. Pretty soon, I was auditioning for speaking roles and I was hooked on theatre. Now, it’s so rewarding to see people grow in theatre. To see them practice and work hard to learn their lines and their characters — to see them enjoy themselves so much that they want to do it again.”
During his 25 years in community theatre, one of Michael’s favorite productions was “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” a timeless comedy that is the
Showcase
story of aging siblings with Chekhov character-inspired names that get tangled up in their “what if” dreams and the rivalries of their youth that spill over into possibly losing the family home, who is really in charge and a career on the decline.
Of this production, he said, “I remember one woman who had never been on stage in a play before, in fact, three of the six people in this particular production had never acted before. Everyone was pretty nervous, but this woman just knocked it out of the park. She was really good. She went on to audition for more plays and had a great time performing.”
Michael said, “On Oct. 12, as part of the Brunswick Intercultural Festival, sponsored by the Brunswick Arts Council, we will be doing a 15-minute excerpt from one of Chekhov’s plays that we think people will really enjoy.” The Intercultural Festival will be held in Belville’s Riverwalk Park.
As anyone who has been involved in community theatre knows, Michael and
the Over the River Theatre group aren’t looking for seasoned actors or authors. They are looking for people who want to have fun, who want to be a part of enhancing entertainment options for local residents and who aren’t afraid to try something new. There is a certain magic in going on stage and becoming a character. You lose yourself in the character that you are playing — taking on their mannerisms and speech patterns, you lose the day-to-day grind that we often call our reality, and you see things from a different point of view.
Michael wants the residents of Leland and surrounding areas to “get hooked on theatre,” the way he did. He said, “I want to get people of all ages involved. Right now, the company doesn’t offer acting classes or teach people how to put a short play together, but with the support of the Brunswick Arts Council and Leland Cultural Arts Center those things will come. But you don’t have to be an actor to get involved. We need lighting crews, stage managers, wardrobe and scenery people, too. We want to get teenagers involved and show them there
is more to life than cell phones and video games. I guarantee they will enjoy the experience.”
There are so many ways that we, the residents of Leland, can promote and support the arts. Michael explained, “Grant money only goes so far. We need support in spirit and money. I want the people of Leland to know that live theatre is here, and we have come to stay. We need donations to help us get established here. Contact your town leaders, let them know that community theatre adds so much value to a place like Leland — ask them to pledge their support for us.” He continued, “We also want to know what appeals to our audiences. Let us know what you want to see. Get involved. You won’t be sorry.”
Michael’s mission is to “educate, entertain and enlighten audiences,” and I for one, can’t wait to experience live theatre in Leland. Find out more about the Over the River Theatre group, which is a 501(c) (3), non-profit organization by visiting www.overtherivertheatrecompany.org, and get hooked on theatre.
Above and Below: Scenes from “The Complete History of America (abridged)”
Keeping Fit
Fitness By Example
Someone Is Always Watching, And It’s Good
STORY BY VICTOR FERNANDES
Victor Fernandes is owner of Fernandez Fit, helpjng clients achieve personal and professional success through health and fitness
Until recently, my 14-year-old son, Zachary, rarely showed an interest in strength training, and frankly I had never truly pressed the issue with him.
Like adults who want to improve their health and well-being but allow their fears to get in the way, Zach wouldn’t be ready to train until he took that all-important first step to better health and fitness without any provocation from me.
No one can make anyone ready. We have to believe we’re ready.
And until that day comes, I simply set a good example through my actions, not my words, in hopes he – really, anyone – watches and takes note, and chooses to take action that will change their lives.
The good thing is…someone is always watching.
It may be Zach, who sees me in our home gym every day. It may be someone who follows my content on social media, or that person who randomly hears me discussing a health and fitness topic.
But someone is always watching –and in turn, the example I set, whether I realize it or not. And that same thought applies to you. It applies to anyone.
We all have people in our lives, especially those within our inner circle, who quietly look to us for guidance and inspiration. They may never ask why you do what you do, why you do it the way you do, and what it does to benefit your life.
Then one day, it clicks with that person, like it has with Zach these past few weeks. Often, it’s a moment in time that provides the spark we need to take that step forward. I recall a client who, unbeknownst to me, followed my content on Facebook for a year and a half before reaching out and asking for help.
It took a current Fernandes Fit client
nearly three years to finally feel ready to seek help getting her health and well-being on track, even after seeing me train her son in a gym for more than a year, following my content on social media, and having conversations from time to time on her health and well-being. Then one day, she reached out and signed up without the slightest bit of trepidation, and nearly a year later has dropped more than 40 pounds. It took my latest client even longer to decide it was time to make a change for the better. We’ve known each other for more than 30 years, and he’s known that I’ve worked in the health and fitness industry for the past six years.
For Zachary, it was his birthday in early July that set the stage for him.
He had a few friends over that night t celebrate his birthday. Two of his friends play football, so they have some personal experience in gym settings.
They were excited to see the Vicnasium for the first time. And even though Zach set up his video game system in the living room for them to play, they asked if they could work out in the home of Fernandes Fit LLC (which by the way was aptly named the Vicnasium by my longest tenured client several years ago).
Zach didn’t say a word. He simply joined in with his friends. They trained late into the evening, and Zach hasn’t slowed down his progress. I’m not convincing him to get in the gym for workouts. He has come to me to ask about training.
With how much teenagers have to be distracted by these days, it’s no small feat to get them to do anything that will benefit them mind, body and soul.
It’s even more of a challenge to get them to stick to something long-term that will benefit them every day of their lives. But all we can do is do the work and trust the process and trust they
will see what we’re doing and take action.
The good thing is, young people are observant, and they’re smart. Zach certainly is. I knew he was watching, even if he wasn’t taking action based on what he saw.
I just had to continue setting a healthy example day after day, both in the gym and the kitchen, and wait for him to reach a point in his mind when he was ready to take action. Now, we have something new to share – and I couldn’t be happier –because it will change our lives in so many ways.
If you want to learn more about setting the right example for those around you, or simply have a conversation about your fitness goals and needs, contact me at 814-504-7774 or info@fernandesfit.com, or head to fernandesfit.com for more information – because at Fernandes Fit…
Fitness Is Our Business!
Jack’s Boat Pull
Fundraiser For Drowning Prevention
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES
Looking to prove that you and your crew are the strongest in town? No need to wrestle giant squid, climb the Pilot Tower or lift unsuspecting tourists’ golf carts over your head. Instead your team of six can compete in the Second Annual Jack’s Boat Pull and help raise some funds to prevent drowning. It’ll be you and five friends on one end of the rope and the Sea Tow rescue boat, trailer and crew cab pick up truck on the other. First to pull the 7.5 tons across the finish line 75 feet away wins.
Jack’s Boat Pull is a fundraiser for the Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation and is held in conjunction with with the Southport Wooden Boat show on Saturday, Nov. 2 at in the parking lot of the Morningstar Marina. The first pull is at 1 pm as the boat show is winding down. In addition to the boat pulling competition, the event features a kid’s boat pull, a DJ, food trucks, and a variety of community information booths. There
will also be life vest giveaways for kids and a 50/50 drawing for cash and prizes.
According to the Jack Helbig Foundation, drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4 and is one of the top three for ages 5 through 34. Melanie Roberts, President of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, said, “Last year we had 12 teams and grossed $14,000 that will help the foundation with mission critical activities which include scholarships for Brunswick School of Fish (swim lessons at BCC), life jacket giveaways, our kindergarten water safety and literacy program and increase the amount of Rip Current awareness and rescue tube stations on Southeastern NC’s beaches.
“I am looking forward to implementing improvements in this year’s event,” Roberts said. “The event chairs — Mick Palagruto, Ken Hutton, and Gene Helbig — have been working hard to make this year’s boat pull even more successful and fun for the community. One of the biggest changes we are making is moving the kid’s boat pull to a lane right beside of the main towing area. This will highlight their event and amp up the cuteness factor.”
Last year’s event was a not only a
lot of fun to watch, it was a huge success for the Foundation. “The best part about the First Annual Jack’s Boat Pull was seeing the amazing support from our community,” Roberts said. “With over 300 participants and spectators we were able to share informa-
Swing For Success: Community
tion about being safer around the water throughout the event.”
But they hope to make this year’s event even bigger.
teams sign up this year and challenge the previous winner, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office,” Roberts said. “This is truly a fun and family-friendly event. All the teams enjoyed pulling together, literally and figuratively, and supporting water safety.”
The cost to enter a team is a $400 donation, and there is a 20-team limit, so register soon to ensure your spot. Sponsorships are all available, including an
opportunity to set up a booth at the event.
For information on registering a team or becoming a sponsor, visit https://www.strideevents.com/jacksboat-pull/event-information. To find out more about the Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation, visit https://jackhelbig.org/
Generalship Theory
Cape Fear Civil War Round Table Meeting
STORY CONTRIBUTED
Wilmington’s Cape Fear Civil War Round Table invites the public to attend the third session in our summer Members Forum series. Titled “Generalship: Theory and Substance,” this audience-participation program will be presented by round table member John Weisz, a West Point graduate and retired U.S. Army officer. The meeting will be held on Thursday, Aug. 8, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Midtown Wilmington near Independence Mall. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the meeting begins at 7 pm.
In June, retired archaeologist Pat Garrow of the round table presented an enlightening program on the phenomenon of “Galvanized Yankees,” captured Confederates who joined the Union army, and also discussed the thousands of white North Carolinians who joined the Union army on their own. Many of them were from northeastern North Carolina, an area that was generally controlled by the Union through much of the war. We also enjoyed a savory sample of Civil War cooking from superlative re-enactor chef William Jordan.
In July we heard from retired Emergency Medical Services chief Fred Claridge, an active volunteer at the Bentonville Battlefield and our newsletter editor, who told us about battlefield medicine in the Civil War. In addition, President Bill Jayne talked about the myths surrounding the use of rifled muskets in the Civil War. Conventional wisdom declares that because the rifle muskets such as the Springfield model 1861 had the potential to be accurate at a much greater range than older smoothbore muskets, the high casualty rates of assaults were due to the use of outmoded linear formations that were decimated at long-range by the newer weapons. Close study, however, shows that most musket fire occurred at ranges similar to the practical range of the smoothbores. This was due to the fact that it was difficult to estimate ranges correctly and Civil War soldiers weren’t trained in marksmanship except for a few exceptions.
The Members Forum on Aug. 8, will be presented by member John Weisz. John graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1974 with a degree in Engineering and minors in German and Military History. He retired from the Army in 1994
as a Lieutenant Colonel. He served in several leadership roles in Armored Cavalry, Armor and Infantry units and on the General Staff at Ft. Knox, KY. He is a graduate of the Command and General Staff School and the Defense Logistics Executive program. He has published several articles in military journals.
John will describe the characteristics of successful generals in the Civil War and
Bring the whole family and join us for a fun-filled ride through Southport’s historic waterfront district aboard our state-of-the-art tram!
One Hour Tour Covering:
• History and Culture
• Movie Locations
• Spectacular Coastal Views
• Shopping and Dining
Reservations
Advised
Tour departs from Southport Visitors Center • 203 E. Bay Street 910-713-3373 www.southportfuntours.com
bring the audience into the study of campaigns through practical exercises. Teams will form and will be provided with the information needed by the commander and several options as to which maneuver to execute. The audience will not be provided with the identity of the generals and where the engagements were fought ahead of the exercise but, by the end, will surely be able to determine who and where.
The meeting will be held in Elebash Hall in St. John’s Episcopal Church. Enter at the rear of the church, which is located at 1219
Forest Hills Drive. The church parking lot, close to the entrance to the meeting room, is easily accessed via Park Avenue off of Independence Boulevard. Doors open at 6:30 pm and there is ample time to browse our used books table, and talk to members of the round table. For information about membership in the round table, go to our website at http://cfcwrt.org and click on “Join.”
See you there!
Voted Best Thing for Visitors To Do!
ART BEAT
A Place For Artists
Barn and Beach and Barn and Beach Too
STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM
The Southport area is home to a vibrant community of artists and craftsmen, including fine artists, potters, sculptors, and woodworkers. However, finding opportunities to sell their work can take time, as many existing venues are already full. Fortunately, we have a few co-op galleries in Southport, such as Franklin Square Gallery, operated by the Associate Artists of Southport, and Artisans on Howe, run by the St. James Artisans. In addition, several fine galleries, antique malls, and gift stores support local artists by selling their work. A new type of storefront, Barn and Beach, has also emerged, offering artists space to showcase and sell their handmade goods alongside vintage and decorator items. This store, run by an artist, has brought a fresh perspective to Southport’s art retail scene.
“I love being around artists, young and old,” said Francesca Clemmons, Barn and Beach Designs owner. “I decided to take a leap and go out on my own and create my own work and give a place for other artists to sell theirs as well. Barn & Beach Designs started in a barn here in Brunswick County. I’d spend days and nights creating furniture, art, and up-cycling whatever I could get my hands on. I opened a brick-and-mortar store 2014 on Long Beach Rd, some 900 square feet. We outgrew the space and moved into a larger one. Unfortunately, I lost that to Hurricane Florence. I then moved down to Howe Street in Southport. I out-
grew that space, too. So, we ended up in the 10,000 square-foot shop we are in now. In February of this year, we added a second location, 6,000 square feet. Both places are on Old Long Beach Road. As a twist, we will be opening a third location this fall. Details are coming soon, but I can say it is a completely different aspect of what we are doing now. We are very excited about this next venture.”
Barn and Beach and Barn and Beach, Too, sit near each other next to the movie theater on Long Beach Road. “I represent close to 200 artists of all sorts. From jewelry, soap, candles, essential oils, pottery, cards, textiles, and clothing, to painting, sculptures, fine art, furniture, and more. Most artists create custom items, so we can make them for you if you can’t find them,” said Francesca. “Along with these amazing folks, we have a coffee shop in our flagship store, a bookstore, and an architectural salvage room. We have classrooms where we offer a variety of classes throughout the year. These are all
listed on our Facebook events page. We also offer these rooms to local groups to use for meetings. We have a puzzle and seed exchange table that has become very popular, “ she said. “Our customers have truly become family to us. We spend a lot of time talking with, laughing with, and even crying with them. You learn their stories and who they are. We love the little community we have built here in Southport.”
The 17 acres of land that the property sits on recently became certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat. “We’ve created a community garden on the property and are converting an abandoned putt-putt golf course into a garden space where folks can walk around, sit, and enjoy nature. Our staff is part of what makes B&B a wonderful
shopping experience. They are one of the many reasons we have been so successful. I can’t thank them enough for their love, support, creative ideas, and motivation. One of the reasons I love this community we have built with Barn & Beach Designs is being around truly talented folks regularly. I love blending ideas, learning from their experiences, and knowledge of their field.”
Creativity and a love for art runs in Francesca’s family. With her mother being creative and highly resourceful, Francesca found a strong love of art at a young age. “I took all the art classes I could in high school and college—painting, textiles, pottery, drawing, printing, design, and mixed medium, to name a few. Painting was my passion. I spent time learning from fellow artists the trade of large murals, faux finishes, and stage props and scenes for theater. I loved every minute of it. So, I branched out again, used all I learned, and taught in private schools for 17 years, 13 here at Southport Christian School.”
Being a resident of Brunswick County for almost 20 years, Francesca has settled here after a lifetime of moving around. “I had an
amazing childhood. I am a product of the United States; with hippie parents, we were always moving and traveling,” she said. “ I was born in California, spent a lot of time in different parts of New Jersey and Georgia, lived in New York, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and several areas of
North Carolina. The beauty of the coast brought me to this area,” she said. “It’s a wonderful place to raise a child, especially a son. Mine spends most of his time in the water and fishing. We have made Oak Island our home with two dogs and my fiancé.”
There are many opportunities for vendors coming up at Barn and Beach. The first Sunday of each month is Barnfield, a flea market where fun finders, plants/ food vendors, and artists and crafters set up to sell their wares. The events run from 10 am to 3 pm.
Fall Fest is Saturday, Oct. 5. From 9 am to 4 pm, artists and crafters, food trucks, and live music will be on site.
“Space is still available for these events if you are interested in sitting with us. All events take place our the backfield,” Francesca said.
For more information, email barnandbeachdesigns@gmail.com or call 910-363-4995.
Golf Tips
Nicole’s Golf Notes
Buy Into Your Golf Game Prior To Shot
STORY 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.
Think about something you’d really like to have or own…a car, an electronic device, a menu item at a restaurant you like, a good new book or anything else. What’s the process to achieving it? There’s usually an awareness of its existence and then imagining yourself happily with it and all the things it might look, feel, taste or sound like that appeal to you. If you are ‘sold,’ then you have a short-term or long-term plan to acquire it in which you’re excited to own or receive it. So how does that relate to golf?
Imagining the car in a fender bender, or the favorite menu item coming out
When getting ready to create our next shot, do you Buy-In with the same excitement and imagery as you would for the item you’ve imagined and want or do you worry and imagine the most awful possible result and then keep stressing about it so you can’t produce a smooth swing or motion to create that shot or putt?
Summer at Franklin Square Gallery
July/August Featured Artists Show runs 7/22-8/17
Billie Mae Outlaw, 3D Ceramic Artist Billie is an established ceramic sculptor known for her though-provoking and unique work.
Robert Huntoon, 2D Artist
Robert Huntoon is a award winning oil painter who has exhibited and taught painting locally and nationally.
burnt or tasting awful, or even not being available, are not the images that make us move forward, yet many golfers keep bringing up the worst possible scenarios before and during a shot. Golfers can train themselves, like the best players do, to focus on the good goal and not the possible failure.
The keys to an effective and enjoyable shot begin in the heart and mind, not in the physical motion (that’s the last step that’s already been set in motion by how you feel or picture it). Believing is Seeing, not the other way around. You need to Attract how things will look if they happen the way you want. You can also Attract the things that you don’t want — it just depends on how you focus and involve your energy. Worrying about if you fail in front of others, seeing a golf ball plop into the water or go out of bounds or yipping a putt will have a great chance of coming to fruition if you focus your energy, emotion and images on that.
You are the captain of your emotional and mental ship, so change the channel and keep your eyes on the final good result, not on what you fear. There is no room for fear or doubt if you are 100 percent enjoying what you’re about to do. Own the emotion and image you want and train yourself to stay attentive to your good intentions and emotions – how it feels it the most important thing.
Buy-in, Plan (not worry) and then get excited about what’s going to happen. I have students start each shot standing behind the ball saying “I can’t want to _________________ (smash it down the fairway, hit it effortlessly, roll it into the hole at 6:30, hear a solid chip…).” Without a caddy, you need to coach yourself into the shot and then buy into it with your head, heart and gut. A caddy can help talk you into it and help you stay on task, but that’s what makes golf mostly an emotional game (and then mental and then physical)…it’s quite a challenge to manage ourselves for a round of golf. Keep paying attention to your good intention!
FISHING REPORT
August Fishing Report
Even In The Dog Days Fish Can Be Found
BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK
Well, we are midway through the summer if you can believe it, and as to be expected this time of year, we’ve had some great fishing along our coast. However, with the “dog days” of summer upon us, following a rough July that presented us with high winds and rough seas, some will say the fishing is bad or the fish are gone, but I promise that’s not the case. What it does mean is that anglers who want to catch fish may need to adjust their techniques and targeted species to have a great day of fishing! During this time of year, it’s best to start your day early in the morning or go fishing late in the day. The cooler temperatures make the fish more active and provide a more comfortable experience for anglers. As the day heats up, the fish tend to move to deeper waters to stay cool.
INSHORE
The finger mullets have arrived in big numbers and are easy to find by patrolling the marshes, marinas, and along the sandbars in our area. Despite a statewide closure for keeping any recreational flounder, you can still catch and release — and fishing is on fire with MANY big flounder being caught both inshore and on the nearshore wrecks and reefs. A simple Carolina rig with a ¾ oz egg weight is really all you need with live finger mullet. The Southport waterfront produces tons of flounder this time of year as do the main feeder creeks and islands on the Cape Fear River. Additionally, Yaupon Reef, McGlamery Reef, and the Ella wreck are producing great flounder fishing as well.
If it’s the red drum you are seeking, they can be found along the marshes, especially on a falling tide ambushing finger mullet as they swim out of the small creeks in the marsh. Another often overlooked spot is along the marsh islands that have wind blowing against them because the bait gets pushed up along the bank and the redfish cruise the area looking for an easy meal.
Sheepshead fishing is also very active and not only fun to catch, but great to eat. I recommend a light jig head with fiddler crabs dropped down beside pylons, retaining walls, and rock piles to get bites from these feisty fish. The real challenge with sheepshead is feeling the bite and setting the hook, but if you take plenty of patience and bait with you it will make for a fun day.
NEARSHORE:
Unfortunately, the hot water along the beach has chased the bulk (not all) of the Spanish mackerel and bluefish out of the area. While there are still a few around, the days of catching a limit in an hour or two are gone for a few weeks. However, if these are the fish you are targeting, you still have some options. The best plan is to go a little further offshore to deeper, cooler water, for example around the Shoals. Look for the birds working, and you will typically find the fish feeding aggressively. Another favorite nearshore method this time of year is using an inshore spinning rod with #6 treble hooks on smaller king rigs with either big finger mullet or small pogeys and setting
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 910620-9919
them at nearshore reefs such as Yaupon or Lighthouse Rocks. From there, slow troll or make drifts over the structure where you mark suspended fish, and you are sure to catch some worthy Spanish mackerel which are so fun on light tackle.
In late August, we will start seeing our first schools of bull red drum on the beach. Upon their arrival, they are initially caught around the massive menhaden (pogey) bait balls that will be found on the beach from the Cape Fear River to Lockwood Folly inlet. A larger Carolina rig with a 2- to 3-ounce egg sinker and 6/0 or 7/0 circle hook is the best rig to use for bull red drum. By casting a live menhaden into the bait ball and letting it sink through the bait, the bull reds will take advantage of your bait on the bottom
resulting in a great fight. It is important to use heavier spinning tackle such as your cobia setup to catch these fish. It is always important to avoid a prolonged fight with these fish as they will become overtired and less likely to recover from the fight and avoid the sharks that will also be patrolling the bait balls.
OFFSHORE:
Offshore, the king mackerel and mahi fishing is slowing down, but we will begin seeing our first sailfish of the season in the 15- to 35-mile range. Be on the lookout for the color change in the water from green to blue to find yourself among these beautiful fish. A circle hooked ballyhoo will allow you to cover a little more water as compared to slow trolling live bait.
Another great offshore option is bottom fishing for sea bass, vermillion snapper, scamp grouper, and amberjacks in about 100 feet of water and working offshore from there. For the sea bass and snapper, use a squid on a double hook rig; for the grouper, use live cigar minnows or pinfish to attract the catch – both can be jigged using Sabiki rigs.
If you are looking for action and acrobatics, an often-overlooked fishery in our area is light lining for BIG barracudas. These silver bullets bite aggressively, run like crazy, and deliver Olympic-worthy aerial stunts that really get your adrenaline going. Most often, barracudas can be found stacked up on shipwrecks and hanging around the buoys marking the artificial reefs in the 5to 10-mile range. They are unable to avoid attacking a live pin fish and the bites are epic.
GULF STREAM
Lastly, it won’t be long before the Gulf Stream action starts to show off in all the best ways. Although there are some fish out there, the water is currently hot and fast-moving, which isn’t ideal for the Pelagic species we love to catch. However, towards the end of August, we can expect to see some wahoo appearing in 20 fathoms. My preferred method to catch these early season fish is to high-speed troll until the fish are located, then switch out for ballyhoo rigs with wire leaders and be patient. Before you know it, the Gulf Stream fishing will be on fire.
As always, I look forward to seeing you on the water with tight lines.
History
New Season Speakers
Brunswick Civil War Round Table 2024-25
The Brunswick Civil War Round Table’s schedule of engaging speakers led to incredible success this past season. More than 180 new members joined, and this non-profit organization maintained its envious reputation as the largest Civil War round table in the country with 1,088 members. The momentum will continue when the new season begins in September with a lineup of exceptional historians. They will present topics of interest to everyone, men and women, young and old, who want to know more about this important period in our country’s history.
The scheduled programs include:
Tuesday, Sept. 3: Battle of Spotsylvania Court House. Popular and entertaining Civil War historian Chris Mackowski returns to our round table by popular demand. He will discuss the second major Civil War engagement in Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant’s Overland Campaign. This major offensive was designed and executed to chase down Gen. Robert E. Lee, destroy his forces, and defeat the Confederacy. Chris’s dynamic
presentation promises to “seize” your attention.
Tuesday, Oct. 1: Award-winning Civil War historian and author of 21 books Eric J. Wittenberg will bring to life the dramatic campaign of Union Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman’s “March to the Sea” in his presentation entitled, “Sherman’s Carolinas Campaign.” Sherman’s tactics devastated the South. The destruction of civilian prop-
erty is still debated by historians today, although it undeniably played a crucial role in the Union’s final victory. Eric will state the facts and doesn’t take sides.
Monday, Oct. 24: The Civil War Ladies’ Forum (sponsored by the BCWRT), is pleased to introduce to all the ladies in attendance
Mrs. Mary Duffy, tavern owner in Smithville. She will share a wealth of memories and stories about life during the “War of Southern Independence.” All of this will be shared by guest speaker Liz Fuller decked out in period dress. Liz is a popular speaker, and is current president of the Southport Historical Society.
Tuesday, Nov. 5: Another popular returning guest to discuss cattle rustling is author, preservationist, and historian, Will Greene. His presentation is appropriately entitled “The Beefsteak Raid at Petersburg.” The raid was a success, capturing over 2,000 cattle, along with some prisoners and wagons. The raid provided a much needed food source for Confederate soldiers defending Petersburg. However, without beef preservation capabilities in the intense summer heat, soldiers simply
had to dine on steak every day while it lasted.
Tuesday, Dec. 3: The Round Table is honored to have award-winning living historian Curt Fields join us once again to portray Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, in military uniform and traditional cigar. Nationally recognized, Curt’s extensive research gives him permission to deliver an accurate persona of Grant, including quotes from Grant’s memoirs, articles and letters he wrote, and remarkable statements or decisions he made while Union troops were under his command. Whatever he decides to share with us, it will take us back into history.
Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025: Always interesting and captivating, prolific author, frequent lecturer, and longtime advisor to the BCWRT, Col. Wade Sokolosky (Ret.) will cover a topic critically important throughout the war entitled, “Civil War Hospitals.” Hospitals treated the majority of the over 600,000 who died from wounds or disease. While Civil War presentations frequently discuss battles, often overlooked is the daily life in hospitals where soldiers spent weeks, and even months recovering, despite poor sanitation and overcrowded conditions.
Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025: Licensed battlefield guide and historic site manager Kevin Pawlak will join us to discuss a major turning point in the Civil War entitled, “Never Such a Campaign: The Battle of Second Manassas.” In August, 1862, with flanking maneuvers, surprise attacks, and rapidly shifting battle lines, Gen. Robert E. Lee’s emboldened Confederate army forced the Federals’ retreat toward Washington. This led to Lee’s first successful invasion of the North, and shattered the North’s optimism of putting an early end to the war.
Tuesday, March 4, 2025: With over 60,000 books written to date about the Civil War, reasonable people may ask, “What’s left to reveal?” Ask Judkin Browning and Timothy Silver, two professors from Appalachian State University. Their presentation is entitled, “Weaponing Food: From Antietam to Vicksburg.” They recognize that the Civil War was much more than a military conflict. It was also a time when environmental issues came into play; e.g., like food supplies, weather, topography, animals, disease, etc., all impacting the outcome of key battles from Antietam and Vicksburg.
Tuesday, April 1, 2025: Gen. Robert E. Lee called him “The Gallant Pelham.”
History
Who is he? We’ll find out as Sarah Bierle, researcher, author, and managing editor of Emerging Civil War presents, “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.” His troops could move quickly alongside the cavalry for surprise attacks and rapid deployment of firepower, earning him a commendation from Lee for “unflinching courage.”
Tuesday, May 6, 2025: “The Battle of Antietam Paintings of James Hope” will be discussed by Bradley M. Gottfried, Ph.D., an educator for over four decades, and Certified Antietam Battlefield Guide. His discussion about James Hope is fascinating. James Hope was a Civil War veteran
and artist who created five large panoramic paintings of the Battle of Antietam between 1888 and 1892. These paintings are considered to be some of the most important and detailed depictions of the battle ever created.
The new season begins on the Tuesday after Labor Day and everyone is invited. Meetings are held at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Registration begins at 6:15 pm and programs start at 7 pm. The visitor fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues. For more information, please contact President John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com, or call him at 404-229-9425. Or, visit the www. Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com to learn more about member benefits, activities,
how to become a member, or renew your current membership. The group’s Facebook page also has additional information, news, and frequent updates.
Thanking Veterans
Commemorative Vietnam War Vet Pin
STORY BY PATTY LANGER
The Vietnam War was an unpopular war fought during an era of social unrest in America. It was a dark time for our country that many people would rather not remember. But great sacrifices were made by the 2.7 million Americans who served in uniform during the Vietnam War, and their efforts should never be forgotten.
The Vietnam War Commemoration was launched by President Obama in 2012 and authorized by Congress to publicly acknowledge our nation’s gratitude to all Vietnam veterans. The ongoing initiative, administered by the Secretary of Defense, will continue through Veterans Day in 2025, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the war’s end. A Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin is available to all veterans of the war as “a lasting memento of the Nation’s thanks.”
There were 58,220 US soldiers killed and 304,000 wounded during Vietnam War, which spanned 20 years, from 1955 to 1975. The U.S. National Archives (www. archives.gov) states that approximately 75,000 Vietnam veterans were severely disabled. Soldiers returning home from the war, two-thirds of whom had been drafted, faced the scrutiny of an angry nation. Sadly, many were shunned by a disenfranchised public, or worse, unfairly targeted by anti-war protestors.
This produced a generation of soldiers who were scarred not only by the horrific experience of the war, but also by the negative social stigma that surrounded it. As a result, homelessness, mental health issues and suicide rates have been particularly high among this group of veterans, even to this day. Many Vietnam veterans remain reluctant to talk about their experience. Sadly, these veterans never received the recognition they deserved for their selfless service to our country.
As time passed, the consequences of our societal failures came to light. Over the last several years, the U.S. government has made significant strides in its efforts to provide physical and emotional support to all our veterans, including those who served in Vietnam.
The Vietnam War Commemoration pro-
duced a lapel pin for presentation to living U.S. veterans who served on active duty in the United States Armed Forces between November 1, 1955 through May 15, 1975, regardless of location. Spouses of deceased Vietnam veterans are also eligible to receive the commemoration. It is a symbolic gesture, meant to express the recognition that these soldiers deserved. Although the Commemoration has been going on since 2012, there is a renewed push to distribute lapel pins as the 50th anniversary year approaches and the program winds to an end.
Local Initiative
The Vietnam War Commemoration forms partnerships with federal, state, and local communities, as well as veteran’s and other nongovernmental organizations, to facilitate the initiative. According to its website, “The Commemoration is providing Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins to Commemorative Partners for dignified public presentations to U.S. military veterans, living at home or abroad, who served during the Vietnam War period as a lasting memento of the Nation’s thanks.”
In our region, the Cape Fear Blue Star Mothers of America is one such partner.
Blue Star Mothers are parents of men and women who are actively serving in the military. The organization raises money to provide support for the families of these soldiers. They also volunteer their time with veterans.
Mary Jo Schepf, a board member of the Cape Fear Blue Star Mothers, coordinates the local Commemoration efforts. Her son is an active-duty reservist who has served for 23 years with the United States Air Force. According to Mary Jo, the Blue Star Mothers have distributed approximately 550 commemorative lapel pins to Vietnam
veterans since March of 2024, in the area extending from Wilmington to the South Carolina boarder. Their goal is to reach all veterans who served in the war — a daunting task considering Brunswick County is the most heavily populated Vietnam Veteran area in North Carolina
“It is an honor and a privilege, actually, to be able to coordinate this movement and to hand a pin to a veteran,” MaryJo said.
The primary fundraiser for Blue Star Moms is the sale of wreaths through a program called “Wreaths Across America.” The wreaths are placed on the gravestones of veterans in Arlington National Cemetery and cemeteries across the country during the month of December.
Wreathes Across America, a non-profit organization, brought a mobile education exhibit to our area in March, 2024, with stints at the Oak Island Elks lodge and VFW post, the Brunswick County Government Center in Bolivia, and the Walmart in Southport. Part of that exhibit was a “Welcome Station” for veterans that provided information about the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin program. Pins were presented to Vietnam veterans on site. MaryJo Schepf witnessed two friends receiving the pin.
“There was an overwhelming emotional response from these vets,” she said.
After learning more about the lapel pin initiative, the Cape Fear Blue Star Moms decided to join the effort, registering to become an official commemorative partner.
The Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin is inscribed with a quote: “A grateful nation thanks and honors You.” It is typically presented in ceremonial fashion, at local meetings or events, and comes with a certificate that explains the pin’s symbolism and a Presidential Proclamation.
Blue Star Moms are actively working with the American Legion and other groups in the area to spread the word about the lapel pins and arrange for presentation ceremonies.
During the week of August 11-17, the Blue Star Moms will have the honor of participating in the City of Southport’s nightly flag lowering ceremony at Waterfront Park on Bay Street. After the ceremony, which happens at 7:30 pm, lapel pins will be presented to all Vietnam veterans in attendance. The Blue Star Moms will also host a lapel pin presentation ceremony at their annual meeting in September. There are several other events in the works tied to Veterans Day in November.
If you know a Vietnam veteran who would like to receive a commemorative lapel pin, contact Mary Jo Schnepf at cjsmjs00@gmail.com.
For more information on the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin initiative, visit www.vietnamwar50th.com
CALENDAR
August
We’ve included events here that were scheduled at press time, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change. For programs offered through the Town of Leland, visit https://apm.activecommunities. com/townofleland/ to register online or register in person at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way
AUG
3
Instructors Showcase
The LCAC instructors take over the gallery this month with their works displayed Aug 3-31. Join them for a reception from 10 am to 2 pm this day, and find out if there’s a new art you’re ready to learn! The Leland Cultural Arts Center is at 1212 Magnolia Village Road.
AUG 3
Food Truck Rodeo — Southport
Approximately 20 food vendors from around the region will be on hand offering a wide variety of tasty treats from 11 am to 3 pm on Bay Street in front of Fort Johnston. There will be live music as well, so plan to sit and stay a while.
AUG 8
Cape fear Civil War Round Table
Member John Weisz will describe the characteristics of successful generals in the Civil War and bring the audience into the study of campaigns through practical exercises. Teams will form and will be provided with the information needed by the commander and several options as to which maneuver to execute. The audience will not be provided with the identity of the generals and where the engagements were fought ahead of the exercise but, by the end, will surely be able to determine who and where. The Round Table meets at Elebash Hall in St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1219 Forest Hills Drive. Doors open at 6:30 and the program starts at 7 pm.
AUG 10-11
The Fleet is In! Navy Ship Model Show BATTLESHIP NORTH CAROLINA hosts this ship model show, highlighting the WWII era, with with examples of battleships, destroyers, cruisers, submarines and more on display. Four guild groups will be displaying their models and also demonstrating model-making techniques. The presentation is free with admission, 8 am to 5 pm on Saturday and 8 am to 2 pm on Sunday. The battleship is moored at 1 Battleship Road NE.
AUG
10
Leland Under The Lights Car Show
Held in the Emerge Ortho Parking Lot and Wilmington Eye Parking Lot from 3-8 pm, the car show is free to attend. Over 35 trophies are awarded, including best in show, most unique, and club participation, to name a few.
AUG
15
Sticthin’ Meet Up
Fiber artists and crafters are welcome to meet up and work together crocheting, knitting, sewing, embroidering or other fabric arts. No registration is required, and the free program is 7-8:30 pm at the LCAC, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
AUG
24
Contra Dance
Cape Fear Contra Dance leads a night of live music and folk dance. Participants don’t need a partner, and no experience is necessary! The program is 7-10 pm, and a lesson for beginners kicks things off at 7 pm. Flat, closed shoes are recommended. Tickets are $15; Contra Dance is held at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
SEPT 4
Masonboro Island Eco Tour
Wrightsville Beach Eco Tours leads this 2-hour excursion which includes a shell hunt and eco-education talk. Children will be encouraged to use what they find to make an art project. The
cost is $75 and is for anyone ages 8 and older. The tour is from 1 to 3 pm.
SEPT 5
Frog Watch
Learn about our frog and toad neighbors who also call this area home, as well as the citizen volunteer scientists helping to document the diversity, populations, and trends of frogs and toads in area wetlands. This program is 5-6 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, and the fee is $10.
ONGOING EVENTS
Riverwalk Marketplace
Thursdays 2-5 pm, Fridays 11 am - 5 pm; Saturdays 10 am - 5 pm; and Sundays 10-4 pm; Produce and fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River.
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 http://bit.ly/lelandevents for more information on classes and programs, including painting, pottery, jewelry-making, acting, dance and more.
Battleship North Carolina
Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year, such as Memorial Day observances, Battleship 101 and more. Visit https://battleshipnc.com/. The battleship site is at
1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington (west side of the Cape Fear River).
Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site
8884 St. Philip’s Rd. SE, Winnabow
There is plenty to do and see, with historic ruins, great information on the site’s history, and some of the most beautiful riverfront property in the County. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday.
NC Maritime Museums - Southport, 204 E. Moore Street
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 Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs. .
Wilmington River Tours
212 S. Water St., Wilmington
Tour the beautiful Cape Fear River and learn more about the area’s history and ecology. Sunset cruises include acoustic music Thursdays through Sundays! Tours are offered daily, to the north along historic downtown Wilmington, the USS North Carolina Battleship and Eagles Island on the even hours, and to the south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and past the shipyard on the odd hours; visit https://wilmingtonwatertours.net/ for schedules and to purchase tickets.
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.
Museum of Coastal Carolina
21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach
The Museum is open Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4 pm, and Sundays 124 pm. Sandbar lectures are 5-7 pm on the second Tuesday of the month.
Ingram Planetarium
7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach
Doors open at 10:30 am 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. A new show debuts in March called Cosmic Mashups, which digs into the science behind black holes. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule.
LIVE MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT
Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College
701 N. Third St., Wilmington
Aug 6 — Iron & Wine: Light Verse 2024 with Rosalie
Aug 7 — StraightNo Chaser: The 90s (male a cappella group)
Aug 24 — Justin Willman: The Illusionati Tour
Sept 13 — JB Smoove
Sept 15 — Melissa Ethridge
Visit https://wilsoncentertickets.com for more information.
Thalian Hall
310 Chestnut St., Wilmington
Aug 1-4 — “Heathers The Musical”
Aug 5-25 — “Fiddler on the Roof”
Aug 29-Sept 8 — “Pay The Writer”
Sept 14 — T.S. Monk
lCheck https://www.thalianhall.org/ calendar for more information and for the Cinematique film schedule.
Greenfield Lake Amphitheater 1941 Amphitheatre Dr., Wilmington
July 30 — Fitz and the Tantrums
July 31 — The Head and The Heart
Aug 7 — Greensky Bluegrass
Aug 9 — Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country
Aug 10 — Andy Frasco
Aug 11 — Maren Morris - RSVP Redux Tour
Aug 22-23 — Charley Crockett
Aug 27 — Matisyau
Aug 30 — American Aquarium
Aug 31 —Steve Earle
Sept 1 — Marty Stuart
Sept 8 — Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway: Down the Rabbit Hole Tour
Visit https://www.livenation.com/venue/KovZ917A2qV/greenfield-lake-amphitheater-events for tickets.
Live Oak Bank Pavilion 10 Cowan St., Wilmington
Aug 11 — Train
Aug 16 — Bailey Zimmerman: RELIGIOUSLY. THE TOUR.
Sept 2 — Band of Horses & City and Colour
Sept 6 — Jon Pardi: Mr. Saturday Night Tour
Sept 10 — Eye To Eye Tour: Nathaniel Ratliff & TNS and My Morning Jacket
Sept 12 — Dierks Bentley: Gravel and Gold
Sept 13 — Turnpike Troubadors
Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar 1175 Turlington Avenue, Leland (Music is 7-10 pm)
Aug 2 — Patrick Bliss
Aug 3 — Flashback Band
Aug 9 — Delia Stanley
Aug 10 — The Stingjays
Aug 16 — Wes Hunter Duo
Aug 17 — The General Assembly Band
Aug 23 — 4th Friday Art Market with The Ford Project
Aug 24 — Papa Midnight Band
Aug 30 — Port City Rockers
Aug 31 — Oysters & Octane Cruise-In with The Ford Project
Leland Brewing Co.
2115 Ale Avenue, Leland
Aug 2 — Richard Klein, 6-9 pm
Aug 3 — Aaron Michael, 5-8 pm
Aug 9 — Burdette Duo, 6-9 pm
Aug 10 — Justin Heter, 5-8 pm
Aug 16 — Asia Daye, 6-9 pm
Aug 17 — Haley Heath, 5-8 pm
Aug 23 — Beth Manning, 6-9 pm
Aug 24 — Brandon Hawkins, 3-6 pm
Aug 30 — Taylor Bissette, 6-9 pm
BEER AND WINE
Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar 1175 Turlington Ave, Suite 101, Leland
Full menu featuring seafood — also hosting live music with seating inside and outside.
Local’s Tavern 1107 New Pointe Blvd., Leland
Live music, karaoke, great food, special events and a great neighborhood vibe. All the football games showing on Sundays.
Bridgewater Wines
1132 New Pointe Blvd., Leland
Food and wine, including free wine tastings. Enjoy Tuesday trivia, wine tastings on Thirsty Thursdays, Wine Down Fridays and Sipping Saturdays.
Blossoms Restaurant (Magnolia Greens) 1800 Tommy Jacobs Dr. Reservations are encouraged; call 910-383-0998. Check Facebook for drink and food deals and special events.
Brunswick Beer Xchange Co.
113 Village Road, Leland
Board games, live music and open mic nights, Bunko games on Mondays, open mic comedy night on Wednesdays, trivia and food trucks on Thursdays, and tastings.
.Brunswick Beer and Cidery
1313 S. Dickenson dr., Leland
Leland’s first brewery and cidery! Full menu also available
Leland Brewing Company
2115 Ale Ave, Leland
Enjoy a wide variety of beers brewed right on site. Check their Facebook page for upates and food truck visits
Scapegoat Taproom
2789 Compass Pointe South Wynd NE, Unit 4, Leland
This taproom has more than 40 beers and ciders to choose from, and plenty of wines too, all with a great neighborhood vibe, live music, and food truck appearances. Enjoy college football Saturdays and pro football on Sundays.
LA Times
2851 Maco Rd NE, Leland
Two bars, two patios, arcade games, pool tables, corn hole, cigars, and a great time with great people
Brodee Dogs Brew House
103 A Village Road, Leland
Dogs and burgers with delicious toppings, including a special house sauce, craft beers, and live music.
Don’t see your event or location listed? Try as we might, we don’t catch everything, so to be sure to be included send your events to lisa@ southportmag.com before the 20th of each month! Thank you!
The Waterford Community Social Committee, led by resident Lisa Bryant, presented a donation in the amount of $261 to express the community’s appreciation for and recognition of the role that members of the John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68 Leland have played in serving area veterans and families. Newly installed Post Commander, Bea Frost, and 1st Vice Commander John Hacker accepted the donation on behalf of the Post.
Under sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-90s, the John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68 Color Guard kicked off the annual Magnolia Greens July 4th Parade. Spectators enthusiastically greeted Post members as they walked the nearly milelong route, handing out small American flags. Motorcyclists from the Legion’s Riders followed, along with vehicles carrying Leland Mayor Brenda Bozeman and Town Council members. The parade terminated at the Magnolia Greens Community Center, where VFW Post 12196 led the community in the Pledge of Allegiance.
