December 2023 Southport Magazine by Southport Magazine

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 1

holiday

gifting

favorites

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

e love the festive holiday season! There are so many fun things to see and do, and so many gatherings with family and friends. One small shameless plug for our business community — Shop Small Saturday has come and gone, but there are still lots of great specials in our local shops, and plenty of great choices for gift giving, so let’s all show our businesses some love. We’re always happy to promote events happening at Brunswick Town, and the December programs are at the top of our list. The nighttime service at the St. Philip’s Church ruins is just beautiful, especially if you need some time to just be still and in the moment. Jeffrey and our newest writer got the chance to join in on decorating the lighthouse, and though we didn’t set out to do this, our December issue is full of stories about community connections, giving, and dreams coming true. We’ll just call it a bit of Christmas magic, and wish you all a wonderful holiday season! — Lisa

STAFF EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jeffrey Stites

McKenzie Barwick Carla Edstrom Patty Langer Lisa P. Stites Jeffrey Stites

editor@southportmag.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Lisa P. Stites lisa@southportmag.com

PHOTOGRAPHER Jeffrey Stites

LEAD DESIGNER Liz Brinker lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS Chuck and Sue Cothran

PUBLISHER & SALES Jeffrey Stites jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

CONSULTANT Kris Beasley PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461

Gifts For Everyone On Your List

Jewelry • Apparel • Home Decor • Furniture • Books Entertaining Essentials • Childrens Corner • Design Services

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 www.SouthportMag.com /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 2 Making The Rooms You Live In The Rooms You Love /December

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Get Exceptional RESULTS! Call your Sea Glass Realty Team to market & sell your home!

Lisa Fosbury Broker 919.523.0337

Linda Pukenas Broker 919.455.7745

BrokerͲOwners of Sea Glass Realty since 2016 and one of the leading teams in the area.

Team@SeaGlassRealty.com

SeaGlassRealty.com Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

910.620.9963 Office

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 3

COMMUNITY

The Claus Cause

Mr. and Mrs. Claus Bring Holiday Cheer STORY BY PATRICIA LANGER

f I didn’t know any better, I would swear I just met Santa and Mrs. Claus! Turns out, I met Santa’s Oak Island helpers, Philip and Heather Kinlaw, and boy do they look the part! (A younger, thinner version, of course.) Philip has a full, curly white beard, a round nose, and twinkly blue eyes. And that’s without the costume! His wife Heather has a sweet face and a calm, orderly demeanor that seems a perfect balance for Jolly Old St. Nick. The Kinlaws, who will appear in costume as Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Old Bridge Diner on Dec. 9, are raising money this holiday season to help local families in need through their charity, The Claus Cause. Philip and Heather Kinlaw have been the managers of Doodles convenience store in Oak Island since 2022. Heather, a retired nurse, and Philip, who had a long career in the nuclear field, were looking for a change in their lives that would allow more time to spend with their family, which includes seven grandchildren. The Kinlaws’ daughter and son-in-law, Briana and Mike Jones, own Doodles and the legendary establishment next door, Old Bridge Diner. After toughing out a few rough pandemic years, the Jones asked Philip and Heather for help managing the store. It turned out to be a perfect opportunity for all of them. The Kinlaws started playing Santa and Mrs. Claus in 2021, at the request of Bri-

ana and Mike. The Joneses, who also own Crossroads Gathering Place, wanted to do something fun for their customers during that first post-Covid holiday season. “We love doing this kind of thing,” Philip said. “So we were happy to do it for them.” They did, however, have one very big concern. “We were afraid of how our granddaughter Ava, who was 6 years old at the time, might react if she recognized us in costume,” explained Heather. With the help of some friends, the Kinlaws came up with a very merry plan. While they were visiting with Ava one day, a few elves from the North Pole dropped by to deliver a very official looking letter from Santa asking for their help, along with a large box containing costumes for a Santa Claus, a Mrs. Claus, and one very small elf! Ava, who was already aware that Santa had helpers for all those shopping mall appearances during the holidays, was thrilled to be called up for elf duty! That year, the spirit of the holiday was shining brighter than Rudolph’s red nose. Custom-

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

ers who stopped by for pictures with Santa, or maybe just to take a peek at his naughty/nice list, began leaving unsolicited donations. The Kinlaws, it turns out, are well known for their generosity and history of helping others. Heather and Philip, a retired Navy submariner, are strong supporters of our local veterans. They decided to place the holiday donations in a collection box for the Masons that sits near the cash register in Doodles. Those donations go to the Masonic Home for Children in Oxford, North Carolina, a place that provides a safe, nurturing home for children in need. Overwhelmed by the generosity of their customers, Heather and Philip decided to start “The Claus Cause” in 2022 as a means to collect and distribute donations to Southport and Oak Island families in need during the holiday season. They set a monetary goal that would allow them to help three local families, identified through contacts at local churches and the Oak Island Police Department’s Community Outreach Officer, Victor Denoble. By the end of the season, donations were nearly double what they hoped for! The Claus Cause was able to help the three families by purchasing clothes, shoes, crafts, books, toys, and many other “wish

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 4

list” items, including a basketball hoop for one very happy child. They also provided each family with a full Christmas dinner from Publix, as well as DVDs and snacks for a movie night. “With the extra money, we purchased winter coats and hats for two other needy families and paid the utility bill for another family that was having a hard time,” Heather recounted. This year, the Kinlaws are hoping to raise enough money to help five families fulfill their Christmas wish lists. To fund the mission, the Kinlaws created die cut ornaments that list various monetary amounts, which customers can “purchase” to make their donations. As of mid-November, the wall above Doodles’ refrigerator section was already covered with ornaments! For people who prefer to make donations online, there are Claus Cause postcards at the Doodles register with a QR code. The Kinlaws are also donating fees they collect for holiday appearances as Santa and Mrs. Claus, including the Oak Island Police Department holiday party and the Oak Island Tree Lighting Ceremony. Going forward, the Kinlaws hope to expand the Claus Cause to support more families, as well as veterans and elderly citizens in Oak Island and Southport. They truly personify the meaning of the season, spreading joy by providing hope to those in need. “Everybody can do a little. Nobody has to do everything,” said Philip, with a twinkle in his eye. Stop by Doodles on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 10 am to 2 pm to see Santa and Mrs. Claus. Pictures with the Clauses are free! Donations to The Claus Cause will be gratefully accepted through that date. For more information on The Claus Cause, or to hire the Kinlaws for an event, call Heather at 910-233-7589 or send an email to reindeerpilot@yahoo.com.

20% OFF MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS

enjoy peace of mind for the holidays

4019 Long Beach Rd. Southport, NC 28461 (910)457-4497 Ext. 3 clubcarsouthport@alwaysreadycars.com Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 5

COMMUNITY

Home For The Holidays

I signed all the preliminary documents and provided all the necessary paperwork to the day I cut the ribbon at the dedication ceremony, the journey has been full of learning and challenging moments. I have grown as my house has been built.

Habitat For Humanity Changes Lives

STORY CONTRIBUTED BY JULI NEWTON PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

e’re Facebook friends with Juli Newton, and have watched her document her journey into a Habitat home with pictures and updates. What we noticed the most was her smile and her positive attitude. She was obviously willing to put in the work, but she seemed to do it so cheerfully. When we saw her pictures of the dedication ceremony, we reached out to her to see if she wanted to share her experience from a first-person point-of-view. She agreed immediately and sent us her article very quickly. Clearly her story was ready to be told, with a minimal amount of editing, we might add. Juli said this process really added to her whole journey, and we feel very proud to be a part of that. This is what community journalism is all about to us — connecting people and sharing stories.--Lisa Stites By Juli Newton Oct 2023 I was born in Southport like my father and my grandmother before me. I have always loved Southport as they did too. Of course I didn’t realize until later in life how wonderful that small detail made my life. I couldn’t wait to leave once I graduated from high school! I thought it was too slow and boring perhaps. I stayed away for about seven years before I made my way back home the first time. My mother was always here

for me when I came running back home, offering a place of refuge to regroup and get my feet back under me. After about 10 years, life circumstances took me away from Southport again. Over the course of nearly 20 years, I lived in Virginia and never thought I would come back to Southport. Life has a way of changing things up on us though, and in 2019 through a series of events, I found myself coming home again. Only this time, for the first time, my mother wasn’t here to greet me, as she had passed away some years before. It was strange coming home at first. As with many other times in my life, I wasn’t able to say exactly why I felt compelled to come back and start from scratch. There were many moments when I wondered if I had made the right decisions. There we times I thought of giving up and going back to Virginia. However, with a vast network of encouraging family members and friends, I persevered and made a home for myself. I felt the hand of God had blessed me with a great job that made it possible for me to move out on my own after living with family members for just over a year. I quickly learned how much Southport had changed as I struggled to make ends meet on a monthly basis, living in what I consid-

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

What was the hardest part for me? Probably the patience this journey required. I have never been strong in that department, but this journey has taught me to trust the process and allow things to unfold. And I have been amazed, humbled, and in awe of just how amazing the unfolding has been.

ered to be one of the last affordable places to be found in the town where I grew up. I was amazed at the fact that my little fishing village of a hometown was now the land of million dollar homes and skyrocketing rents. About three years passed and I was content, but life had different plans and the day my rent increased to an unsustainable amount was the day the wheels of fortune began to roll my way. It was right after that fateful day that sent me into a bit of a financial panic that I made a phone call to Brunswick County Habitat for Humanity. I told them my story and how I didn’t know how I was going to make it on this increased rent and they set my feet on the path to homeownership. I never even dreamed that this could happen and yet here I am just over a year later about to move into my new “forever” home! Just so we are clear, there is a lot that goes into a Habitat Home. And no, they did not give it to me! I had to work hard over the past year putting in “Sweat Equity Hours” and keeping myself on a very tight budget. I worked closely with many people over the last 16 months. From the day

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 6

My greatest lesson is that you just never know what life holds around the corner for you and those things that were meant to harm can indeed be turned into things that bring beauty and meaning to life.

UNT

20C DE

Please drop off your unwrapped toys for kids, ages 0-16 at either our Southport or Oak Island offices as we support the Brunswick Family Assistance 2023 Toy Drive. Give a child a Merry Christmas this year!

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 7

COMMUNITY

Jolly Holiday Events It’s Time To Start Planning Christmas Fun STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

s much as we love summertime, we especially enjoy our community during the Festive Holiday Season. There are just so many of our favorite events happening, the only problem is trying to do it all. To help you plan your holiday fun, here’s a run-down of local holiday events. Friday, Dec 1

Oak Island’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Entertainment begins at 5 pm, Tree Lighting at 6 pm Middleton Park, 4610 E Dolphin Drive

Spend an evening with friends and family as Oak Island ushers in the magic of the holiday season. Relax before the Christmas rush as the community comes together to enjoy live music, crafts, Santa mailing sta-

tion, and more! Be sure to stick around as islanders welcome the arrival of good ole’ Saint Nick. This is a free event.

Southport Mayor’s Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony 6 pm At the Whittlers Bench at the foot of Howe Street Enjoy music and community togetherness as Southport’s Christmas Tree comes to life

Saturday, Dec 2

8-10:30 am Breakfast with Santa Boiling Spring Lakes Community Cen8-10 am ter, 1 Leeds Road Oak Island Community Resource Center, This annual Pancake Breakfast will raise 102 SE 47th Street money for BSL’s Senior Sunshine Fund Celebrate the holidays this season in style as Oak Island Recreation Department hosts Breakfast with Santa! Hang out with Santa and friends while enjoying a breakfast buffet, holiday crafts, and reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” The perfect photo opportunity, be sure to come in your favorite holiday attire. This event is for children 10 years old and under. Fee is $8 for residents and $10 for non-residents. Registration required at www. oakislandnc.gov/RecDesk

Get ready for the holidays!

Pancake Breakfast and Santa’s Workshop

DecEMBER 8th & 9th

Specials, Stocking Stuffers, & Swag bags Lite Refreshments will be served

Fairy Hair by Katherine Saturday DecEMBER 16th

ORT MAGA E

SOU

ZIN 2023

2023

OPEN: M-Sat: 10 - 5pm | Sun 10-4pm

114 North Howe St., Southport 910-457-0921 thesouthportpearl.com

JEWELRY • HOME DECOR • APPAREL • HANDBAGS • PET ESSENTIALS & MORE!

E WIN

Follow us on our social media pages about our new Project for the New Year. 2024 Will be Awesome! Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 8

which will assist senior adults with programs and trips. Tickets to the breakfast include pancakes, sausage, bacon, OJ, coffee and sweet tea. There will be a special guest for the kids in Santa’s Workshop. Kids will get to make a holiday craft and have their picture taken with Santa. Buy your ticket in November to receive an early bird discount. The fee for this event is $2 for a Child resident, $5 for an adult resident, $3.50 for a Child non-resident, and

$7.50 for an Adult non-resident. For more information contact Sara at 910-363-0276 or sgoodwin@cityofbsl.org

Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus 12-2 pm Bald Head Coffee and Tea House, 3481 George II Hwy, Boiling Spring Lakes Enjoy some coffee or tea while the young ones chat with the Clauses!

Oak Island Christmas Parade 2 pm The parade runs down Oak Island Drive from E 46th Street to McGlamery Street

We absolutely LOVE this parade. The community comes out in force to celebrate with floats, fire trucks, marchers, local businesses and non-profits. There’s really not a bad spot to watch, and the route is long enough that everyone can get a good seat.

Winterfest Tea (Sponsored by The Sisters of Southport) 1 pm Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay Street

Enjoy a festive High Tea with all your

friends! Tickets are $45 and are available at Ricky Evans Gallery or the Ft. Johnston Visitors Center.

Dec 2-3 Sea Notes Choral Society Christmas Concert 3 pm Odell Williamson Auditorium on the campus of Brunswick Community College

Sea Notes Choral Society kicks off its upcoming 50th anniversary with an extra special Christmas concert entitled, A Quartet for Christmas. All four of their talented directors, Bob Marks, Dianne Hoffman, Marie Pierre Fletcher, and Cindy Sellers, will direct a portion of the concert. Each director has chosen a beautiful set of Christmas music sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. The event is free but advance tickets are required. Tickets can be picked up at the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce and Ricky Evans Gallery.

Real Italian Award-winning Pizza

Family Recipes

Nightly Dinner Specials

Local Fresh Seafood

Really Fresh Seafood

Gift Cards available in-house and online

5177 SOUTHPORT-SUPPLY RD SE • (910) 454-4540

Reservations and online ordering at BellaDiningNC.com

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 9

Sunday, Dec 3

9th Annual Holiday Art Market 10 am - 2 pm Middleton Park, 4610 E Dolphin Drive

Discover a unique assortment of craft and homemade items that are sure to make for for wow-worthy gifts this holiday season. Enjoy holiday music while you shop until you drop, or simply peruse the market, the perfect Sunday afternoon outing. With close to 100 small businesses in attendance, this year’s event will one holiday opportunity you won’t want to miss. For more information, or to inquire about becoming a vendor, please email Oak Island Recreation Department Director, Heather O’Brien, at hobrien@oakislandnc.gov.

Pet Pictures With Santa (Sponsored By Southport Animal Protective Services) 2-4 pm Indian Trail Meeting Hall/Keziah Park, 113 W. Moore Street

Create treasured holiday memories with your furry (or even scaly) friends!

Monday, Dec 4

Ornament Making at the Oak Island Nature Center

10 am - noon 5202 E Yacht Drive

Community

Give the gift of creativity this holiday season as coastal residents and guests spend time making season crafts that can be enjoyed for years to come! Perfect for spending time with friends and connecting with your social circle, as this community opportunity creates seasonal delights overlooking the inspiring views of the intracoastal waterway at Oak Island Nature Center. Limited to those 18 and older. Fee is $5 for residents and $7 for non-residents

Shop-With-a-Cop Concert Featuring the Back Porch Rockers 6-8 pm Franklin Square Park, Southport

Come out to enjoy some music and bring a donation for Southport Police Department’s Shop With A Cop program.

Tuesday, Dec 5

Santa Paws Pet Photos with Santa 4-6 pm Middleton Park, 4610 E Dolphin Drive

The holiday season is going to the dogs! Bring your furry friends to Middleton Park Complex so they can share their holiday

wish list and get a photo with Santa Paws. FREE to attend, this unique opportunity has become an Oak Island holiday tradition. All pets are welcome. Participants are responsible for their pet’s behavior and clean up while visiting the park.

Candy Cane Garden Party 6-8 pm Keziah Park, 113 W. Moore St.

Walk through a winter wonderland enjoying four-foot candy canes that have been decorated by local community members for your holiday enjoyment. For information and to purchase a candy cane to decorate visit www.southportgardenclub.org, available for pickup at the Visitors Center.

Wednesday, Dec 6

State Port Pilot Annual Cookie Contest 3:30-5:30 pm Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. Come out and vote for your favorite cookie and festive holiday display! Easily the most delicious event of your holiday season. To enter the contest, email cookies@stateportpilot.com

Snow Many Crafts at Oak Island Ocean Education Center

5-6 pm 4700 E. Oak Island Drive

Spend an evening as a family making holiday themed crafts at the Ocean Education Center. Whether your little ones are making personalized gifts, or decorations for your own home, this brand-new event is sure to become a holiday tradition! Designed for ages 12 and under. Fee is $5 for residents, $7 for non-residents

Supper with Santa’s Elves (Sponsored by Southport Parks and Recreation Department) 5-6:30 pm 209 Atlantic Ave, beside the City Gym Parents will be able to drop their children off, then shop at local stores or have a romantic dinner. The children will enjoy a pizza dinner and watch a movie. You must pre-register by calling 910-457-7945. The cost is $5 per child.

Thursday, Dec 7

Oak Island Holiday Olympics: Let the Reindeer Games Begin! 5:30-7:30 pm Oak Island Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive Compete as a family, or with your favor-

Mulch • Topsoil • Pine Straw Pavers • Firepits Brick • Block • Stone Gravel and much more

Wishing you a Happy Holiday and a Joyful New Year! Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 10

WE DELIVER

Veteran-Owned and Operated bianchibrickyard.com

Trusted since 1999 and voted best roofer in the Cape Fear, ask us about our exclusive Flores and Foley Roofing free waranty upgrade. Protect your roof investment longer with Cape Fear’s most trusted coastal roofing specialist.

Call Peter Foley today to find out about our free warranty upgrade.

910-371-1400 26,000 roofs since 1999!

floresandfoley.com

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 11

ite social circle, as Oak Island Recreation Center puts a festive spin on a variety on holiday themed games. Teams work together to complete a series of challenges as they compete to win much coveted golden Santa hats! Teams must have a minimum of four members with at least one member under the age of 18. Registration required at reccenter@OakIslandNC.gov or by calling 910-278-5518. Max of 10 teams. Fee is $30/ team for residents, $40 for non-residents

Movie on the Lawn: Polar Express Dusk Garrison Lawn, 203 E. Bay St.

Enjoy a movie in the great outdoors! Chairs and blankets are highly recommended

Friday, Dec 8

A Light in the Darkest Night Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson 4-7 pm

Stroll among the ruins of St. Philip’s church, decorated with holiday greenery and candlelight. There is no fee to attend, but the gift shop will be open for holiday

Community

shopping.

Holidays with the NC Maritime Museum at Southport 12-4 pm 204 E. Moore St. This annual tradition features the museum crew dressed out in period attire and includes historic activities and take-home crafts for visitors

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt 6 pm Bill Smith Park, 446 Fish Factory Road

Youth will be delighted as they hunt for candy canes as well as green and red eggs that have been filled with holiday treats. This year’s hunt will be held on the park’s softball fields, and football field, and will serve as a fantastic photo opportunity designed for families and social circles with youth ages 12 years and under. Free to attend

Light Up The Night Christmas Parade 5:30 pm Children board fire trucks at the Southport Fire Station 6:30 pm Parade kicks off from Waterfront Park

This is a terrific night time extravagancy of holiday fun! Parade route: Waterfront Park, down Howe Street, back to the Southport Fire Station. Following the parade, children are invited to visit with Santa.

Saturday, Dec 9

Build Your Own Gingerbread House 10 am - noon Oak Island Community Resource Center, 102 SE 47th Street

Stop in to create your very own Gingerbread House! Families are invited to build tasty homes using a variety of edible goods. Kits take approximately 30 minutes to decorate, making this drop-in program the perfect weekend adventure this holiday season. Pre-registration is required, and fees are per participant, per gingerbread house Cost is $12 for residents, $18 for non-residents

Winter Craft Festival 9 am - 4 pm Franklin Square Park

Shop for gifts or just something to liven up your own holiday decor. Entertainment on the stage from 11 am - 3 pm.

Southport Train and Toy Show 12-5 pm Indian Trail Meeting Hall, 113 W Moore St. The Wilmington Railroad Museum will be showcasing a modular train setup and wooden tracks for kids, while the Grand Strand Model Railroaders will be sharing their small N-scale traveling layout. There will also be presentations at 1 and 3 pm.

Southport Historical Society Tour of Homes 12-5 pm Downtown Southport

Get a peak inside some of Southport’s loveliest homes as they are decked out for the Christmas season. Tickets are needed to join this tour and can be purchased for $25 through the Southport Historical Society’s website starting on Nov. 28 as well as in person at Ft. Johnston Visitors Center and Museum beginning at 10 am. Limit of 4 tickets per person.

Charlie Brown Christmas Concert and Party 3-5 pm

Only From The Kitchen Man GRANITE AND QUARTZ COUNTER TOPS KITCHEN AND BATHROOM DESIGN REMODELING AND CUSTOM CABINETRY

Cape Fear's Best Kitchen and Bath Designer

910-408-1322 kitchenmannc.com

Over $1,500 in value added options - FREE!

15 Year Sealant -X $500 - Included! Stainless Sink - X $600 - Included! Top-Line Faucet -X $200 - Included! 5 Edge Choices -X $200 - Included!

This is not a sale or special offer, every Kitchen Man job earns all these extras! Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 12

Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St.

Join your friends and neighbors for a party as a concert by the Charlene Brown Trio & the Treble Makers, Santa, and more come together for an afternoon of music and fun! For kids of all ages, including entertainment, snacks, drinks, an Ugly sweater contest, and more surprises! This event is hosted by the Brunswick Arts Council. In the spirit of giving, we invite you to bring along a donation—whether it’s cash, a can, or a boxed food item—to help spread holiday cheer

Southport Winterfest Flotilla 6 pm Waterfront Park

For the 29th year, the Southport Winterfest Flotilla, sponsored by Cape Fear Yacht Club, Downtown Southport, Inc., and the City of Southport will illuminate the waterfront. Bring chairs and blankets to enjoy the beauty of Christmas lights bouncing off the water. The flotilla route will showcase vessels from Old American Fish to Marker 19 near the Southport River Hotel, then return to Old American Fish and the Yacht Basin. Students from the Southport Elementary School Art Program will be judging the sail, power, and paddle boats of the flotilla. Come on down to the waterfront support all the flotilla participants and enjoy the celebration.

Sunday, Dec 10

An 18th-Century Christmas Brunswick Town

hand at Moravian paper stars and other 18th-century crafts. An authentic period candlelit service in the ruins of St. Philips Anglican Church begins at 5 pm and will conclude by 5:30 pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the gate the day of the event or in advance online at https://friends-of-brunswick-townfort-anderson.square.site/. The site is at 8884 St. Philip’s RD SE, off N.C. 133 in Winnabow.

•• •• ••

drive thrU thrU SStotoccororaadedennrr ahhheeearrdee drive ahead coffee bar bar coffee PATIO PATIO

Tuesday, Dec 12

Holiday Bingo 5-7 pm Oak Island Community Resource Center, 102 SE 47th Street

Bring the whole family down to the Community Center and play some holiday bingo! Games are open to all, and winners will get prizes that everybody will enjoy! Fee is $5 for residents, $7 for non-residents

Saturday, Dec 16

Oak Island Flotilla 6 pm Leaves Lucas Cove and floats down to Pinner Point

Enjoy a Christmas parade, island style. The flotilla will start at 6 pm and the decorated boats will parade from Lucas Cove (East 61st) to Pinner Point (west end of Yacht Drive). Viewing spots are available at street ends along the Intracoastal Waterway.

baldheadcoffee.com

Stillbaldheadcoffee.com searching for the ideal gift? 3481 George II Highway (Hwy 87) • Boiling Spring Lakes, NC • 10 minutes from downtown Southport 3481 George II Highway (Hwy 87) • Boiling Spring Lakes, NC • 10 minutes from downtown Southport

Visitors can explore the Brunswick Town/Ft. Anderson State Historic Site to see how the American colonists celebrated Christmas, 1-5:30 pm. During the program, enjoy 18th-century inspired refreshments in the visitor center, participate in traditional games, or try your

gift card 3481 George II Highway (Hwy 87) Boiling Spring Lakes, NC 10 minutes from downtown Southport

BALDHEADCOFFEE.COM Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 13

Winterfest 2023 December 1-9

For more information, please scan here, or call 910-457-7927

SANTA’S WORKSHOP CANDY CANE GARDEN PARTY HISTORIC HOLIDAYS (Sponsored by NC Maritime (Sponsored by (Sponsored by Museum at Southport) Southport Parks & Rec.) Southport Garden Club) Friday, December 8, 12-4 Saturday, December 9, 10-11 Tuesday, December 5, 204 E. Moore St. 209 Atlantic Ave., 6–8 Keziah Park beside Southport Gym. Buy candy canes online at LIGHT UP THE NIGHT southportgardenclub.org, CHRISTMAS PARADE OLD BRUNSWICK COUNTY available for pickup at the (Sponsored by JAIL MUSEUM TOURS STOREFRONT SHOWCASE Visitors Center. Southport Fire Dept.) (Sponsored by (Sponsored by the Friday, December 8, 5:30 Southport Historical Society) ANNUAL COOKIE CONTEST City of Southport) Children will board the fire Saturday, December 9, 12-5 (Sponsored by Visit and vote on local engines at the Fire Station on the corner of Nash & Rhett The State Port Pilot) businesses that have Parade begins at 6:30 Streets. Wednesday, December 6, decorated for the season! Parade route: Waterfront Park, CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 3:30–5:30, down Howe St., back to the WINTERFEST TEA (Sponsored by Brunswick Arts Southport Community Building Southport Fire Station. (Sponsored by the Following the parade, children Council) Concert & Party For more information visit Sisters of Southport) Saturday, December 9, from 3are invited to visit with Santa stateportpilot.com. Saturday, December 2 at 1:00 5 Southport Community Building and will receive a gift. SUPPER WITH SANTA’S ELVES Concessions available. at the Southport Community HOLIDAY TOUR OF HOMES (Sponsored by Building. Tickets will be $45 WINTER CRAFT FESTIVAL (Sponsored by Southport Parks & Rec.) available at Ricky Evans Gallery (Sponsored by Southport Historical Society) or the Ft. Johnston Visitors Center. Wednesday, December 6, Downtown Southport, Inc. & Saturday, December 9, 12-5 5-6:30 $5 per child City of Southport) Tickets are needed to join this PET PICTURES WITH SANTA 209 Atlantic Ave., Saturday, December 9, 9-4 tour and can be purchased for (Sponsored by Southport Animal beside Southport Gym. Franklin Square Park $25 through the Southport Protective Services) For more information, visit Historical Society’s website CHRISTMAS MOVIE Sunday, December 3, 2-4 www.downtownsouthport.com. starting on November 28th at 10 “POLAR EXPRESS” Indian Trail Meeting Hall / Keziah (Sponsored by Park 113 W. Moore St. WINTERFEST SOUTHPORT WINTERFEST Southport Parks & Rec.) PERFORMING ARTS FLOTILLA SHOP-WITH-A-COP CONCERT Thursday, December 7, at dusk (Sponsored by (Sponsored by (Sponsored by Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn Brunswick Arts Council) Cape Fear Yacht Club, Southport Police Dept.) Chairs/blankets are suggested. Saturday, December 9, 11-3 Downtown Southport, Inc., & Monday, December 4, 6-8 Snacks provided by Southport Franklin Square Park Stage. City of Southport) Franklin Square Park. Intracoastal Realty. Saturday, December 9, 6 SOUTHPORT TRAIN Featuring the on the Southport Waterfront. ONCE MORE BOOKSTORE'S AND TOY SHOW BACK PORCH ROCKERS. Bring chairs and blankets and HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE (Sponsored by Wilmington enjoy the beauty of the Railroad Museum & Grand (Sponsored by Friends of the Christmas lights Strand Model Railroaders) Library Southport Oak Island) bouncing off the water Friday, December 8th, from 10-4 Indian Trail Meeting Hall Saturday, December 9th, At 727 N Howe St. open from 12-5, presentations at 1 & 3.

MAYOR’S DOWNTOWN TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY (Sponsored by the City of Southport) Come join us on Friday, December 1 at 6 to share in the Joy of the Season.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 14

Mulberry Maps

Biz Feature

Turning Important Locations Into Artwork STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

ooking for something for the person who has everything? As we get older, it gets harder and harder to find the perfect gift that is meaningful and unique. Well, Amy Schmidt, environmental scientist, world traveler, and map maker, may have just the thing. Asked to give an elevator pitch that explains what her Mulberry Maps can provide for someone, she was quick to answer, “Stuff to make somebody cry.” Of all the gifts to hit the heartstrings, maybe maps aren’t the first to leap to mind, but you’ve not seen what Amy can do. “If you want to get someone a gift who you think doesn’t need anything, they’re very hard to shop for, let me make something that’ll make them cry. Let me make a map that is from their childhood home, or where their honeymoon was, or where they are now,” Amy said. “Some folks have this special connection to places and no one’s ever told them ‘Hey I will make a map for that spot,’” she

said. “And it doesn’t have to be some antique, old fashioned map that that looks like its been set on fire and stomped on by a pirate. It can be really modern and really sleek and it can be as colorful or not colorful as you want it to be to match your home.” One special map Amy made recently was for a woman who had a bone marrow replacement. Amy was able to map where the woman lived, where the bone marrow donor lived in Germany, and draw a little connection between the two as a representation that they are forever connected. “It was jus a little gift, a little sentimental thing,” Amy said.

look good,” she said. Working in an endless variety of colors is a large part of what led to the creation

of Mulberry Maps. “I worked for other people beforehand for about a decade, and I was a Covid burn-out. I started the LLC because during the day and up until

She’s made maps of the places couples met, of hiking trails that hold some special significance for a client, and the locations of people’s first home, or current vacation retreat. “I can work with a realtor and put someone’s vacation house on a map with their, or the house’s, name,” Amy explained. “That’s what I’ve been doing for a lot of folks over the summer.” And if you aren’t a fan of the pirate-stomped antique look, Amy can make your map in any color you like. “I can color-match your fireplace if you want, or if you have a cute pillow and you love a color in that, I can match that color. Or you can choose from mine, because I think they Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 15

Biz Feature

this summer when I started selling things — you know, doing the fun stuff — I would work for engineering firms and non-profits and you can use grey, black and red,” Amy said. “I’ve mapped all over, worked in Micronesia when I was in college, did all sorts of cool international projects because of all those connections I made then, but then I was like, ‘I’m really bored of this color palette.’ Engineering firms only let you use grey, black and red pretty much. So I was like, you know what? I’m going to start having fun. “I have a plotter. It prints out basically wallpaper-sized paper. I just decided I’m going to start doing these,” she said. When Amy’s best friend bought a house and moved in down the street, she made a map showing his new home. “I made him a housewarming gift and he was like, ‘My realtor’s obsessed with this.’ His realtor saw it and and said ‘You’ve gotta start selling these maps, not just making them for your best friend.’ And I said Ok, I’m going to do this,” Amy said. “I’ve been really thankful. I’ve been having a blast with it. I get do creative things and I’ve expanded my color palette. And I get to map the beach or a national park or whatever it is, not just a paper plant or a natural gas pipeline.” Though Amy and her husband live in Charlotte full time, her parents have had a home on Oak Island since 2016. “I like to

joke that we’re off-season locals,” she said. “With both of us working remotely, we get to come down for ‘local’s summer’ in the off-season, or if there’s something that needs to be fixed.” The Oak Island connection led to a lot of work. “My big area is Oak Island. I do more Oak Island than anywhere else. It’s really, really fun and I love it,” Amy said. “I’ve had so much fun with this and and feel so blessed that folks are like ‘The style that you’re doing, no one else is doing that and I want that. These Oak Island beach house owners are saying ‘Oh, we want one that says whatever beach house.’”

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

anywhere for you.

Mulberry Maps has found its own spot on Oak Island’s map at Crossroads Gathering Place, 128 Country Club Drive. Just head upstairs and you’ll find a selection of maps featuring cool geography on everything from framed paper to dish towels. But don’t let the selection in the shop limit you — Amy can map pretty much

“The really fun thing with GIS and with mapping is that you can map for anything,” Amy said. “Just in the last two weeks folks have said I need a map for Germany or I need a map for Macchu Picchu. I just did

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 16

that two days ago. The data is everywhere. Some guy hiked this trail near Machu Picchu in 2017 and took really good data. Even if it’s super remote, someone has probably collected that data. So it’s awesome. “I have two terabytes of data. I’ve got streets and rivers and all for the whole country,” Amy said. “It’s the greatest compliment when people say ‘You did such a good job on mine, I want to give one as a gift.’ I can’t believe I’m doing that. I’m in your house now and before this I was doing stuff that was confidential, that was boring. Now I’m doing things that mark important things for people. “I love North Carolina, I love this part of the state, I love making maps of North Carolina and I’m so appreciative to be able to be in Crossroads now and meet folks around here and feel that the things I make mean a lot to someone.” It may even make someone cry.

ORT MAGA

DECORATE YOUR NEST FOR THE HOLIDAYS

You can’t afford Not to shop at Talefeathers!

SOU

s ’ t e L

ZIN

Gifts Galore!

2023

GIE

105 S. Howe Street (Next to Trolly Stop) • 910-457-0011

A y l F

! e t i K

Kites • Windsocks • Spinners Toys • Garden Flags • Gifts

presents the 2023 christmas concerts

5021 Southport Crossings Way Suite 314 (In The New Lowes Shopping Center)

BoB Marks Director

Dianne hoFFMan Director

sat December 2 3:00 pm sun December 3 3:00 pm Brunswick community college odell Williamson auditorium For seating assistance call oWa at 910 755-8513 at least one week in advance. Friends of sea notes—www.sea-notes.com

Marie-Pierre Fletcher Director

cinDy sellers Director

F r e e t i c k e t s ava i l a B l e at these locations from oct. 15: (note: locations have changed)

Winter hours: Monday + Thurs-Sun 10 am - 6 pm

Southport-Oak Island Chamber, Southport 910-457-6964 Ricky Evans Gallery, Southport 910-457-1129 The Shoe Center Leland, Villages at Brunswick Forest 910-371-9881 Port City Java, Olde Waterford Way, Leland 910-383-2429 Scott's Farm and Family, Main St., Shallotte 910-755-6055 Odell Williamson Auditorium, Bolivia

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

carolinakitehouse@gmail.com

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 17

Community

Colonial Christmas

Holiday Events Coming To Brunswick Town

Once again, if you’ve not experienced a Christmas service in the ruins of the old church at Brunswick Town, make time for this event. It will be a highlight of your holiday season.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

wo December events at the Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson State Historic Site provide a chance to slow down and enjoy the holidays at an 18th-century pace and to see one of our county’s most beautiful properties dressed up in Christmas finery. Head out to A Light in the Darkest Night, from 4-7 pm on Friday, Dec. 8 and experience Brunswick Town, and its historic St. Philips Church, as night falls and candles illuminate the property. Visitors will have the chance to experience a peaceful evening amongst the ruins of St. Philips Church as it is decorated in its holiday finest, with candlelight and greenery. The visitor center will be open so you can even do a little holiday shopping in the gift shop for that hard to buy for history buff. If you’ve not experienced Bruns-

wick Town at night before, this is a notto-be-missed opportunity. The event is free and great for all ages. On Sunday, Dec. 10 from 4-7 pm, an 18th Century Christmas returns once again this holiday season to let visitors explore how the American colonists celebrated Christmas. During the program, you can enjoy 18th-century inspired refreshments in the visitor center, participate in traditional games, or try your hand at Moravian paper stars and other 18th-century crafts.

The highlight of the evening will be an authentic period candlelit service in the ruins of St. Philips Anglican Church. The service will begin at 5 pm and will conclude by 5:30 pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be

NOW LEASING!

New Resort-Style Apartment Homes Welcome to Hawthorne at Pine Forest, a brand new apartment community offering spacious one, two, and three bedroom homes. With an exclusive amenity package, designer interiors and an ideal location just minutes from Oak Island and Southport, Hawthorne at Pine Forest has everything you need to create the coastal lifestyle you are seeking.

(910) 807-7818

HawthorneAtPineForest.com

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

purchased at the gate the day of the event or in advance online at https:// friends-of-brunswick-townfort-anderson.square.site/

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 18

order online:

theseasidemermaid.com

OAK ISLAND | OCEAN ISLE BEACH | SURF CITY

Visit our new Sweet Shoppe & Furniture Garden, and Kids Rooms at our Oak Island Location COASTAL JEWELRY • UNIQUE HOME DECOR GARDEN & MORE SHOP ONLINE at

6102 E. Oak Island Drive • Oak Island, NC (Next to Mermaid Cove)

OPEN DAILY 7AM-9PM

mermaidcoveboutique.com

Download Mermaid Cove Boutique App for iPhone & Android Now!

A FLATTERING FIT FOR EVERY MERMAID: SMALL - 3XL 6102 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465 • 910-250-1511

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 19

Community

Lighthouse Lighting Decorating With The Lighthouse Elves

STORY BY MACKENZIE BARWICK PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I’m telling you why, the lighthouse is getting decorated tonight….

efore entering the Oak Island lighthouse, I had pictured a spiral staircase going all the way to the top. That was not the case. Instead, there were eight different ship ladders that got you to the amazing view, totaling 131 steps. Once I made it to the top, I joked that I maybe should have considered some training before the climb. I was a little more winded than I expected to be. It was no easy feat, but well worth it. Luckily, if you do need a break in between, there is plenty of room to stand on each platform going up.

This wasn’t just a normal day at the lighthouse though. This was the day more than 30 volunteers came together to decorate for the 2023 Christmas season. I’ve lived in the area off and on my entire life and never once climbed the 65-year-old building.

Bob Ahlers, the chairman of the volunteer group, Friends of Oak Island Lighthouse, was kind enough to let Jeff and I come see what it takes to get the lighthouse gussied up for Christmas. When we arrived, there were volunteers gathered at the bottom al-

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

doing it for years. I wasn’t expecting the temperature change that happened from bottom to top. I wore a jacket and once I was done climbing, I wished I hadn’t brought it, but after stepping outside I was glad I did. It was windy enough to make it feel like the glasses on top of my head were about to fly Friends of the Oak Island Lighthouse decorating crew right off. The volunteers also take people on tours, giving ready lighting up the sidewalk with red and the tour goers all the history of the lightgreen. house. One volunteer, Rick Morrison, said, I consider myself lucky that not only did I “We will be doing tours in the summer on finally climb the lighthouse, but I got to do a 95-degree day, and once we are up and it while it was being decorated with lights, step outside it feels like Nirvana because ribbons, and garland. It was a great experi- it’s so windy.” ence being able to see what goes into such One of the most interesting things about a fun job. One of the volunteers, Willie, the Oak Island lighthouse is the unique LED told me it was his second year volunteer- light used. They don’t let everyone into the ing, while there were others who have been very top to see the light, only private tours.

MISSES, JUNIORS, PLUS & MEN’S

SHOP IN STORE TODAY!

Extra

TODAY! ANY SINGLE ITEM *Simply present this coupon at time of purchase. Does not apply to Men’s $41.99 Levi’s denim. Limit one per customer. Does not apply to prior purchases or gift cards. Cannot be combined with any other promotional offers or coupons.

VALID NOW THROUGH 12/24/23

labelshopper.com

4956 LONG BEACH ROAD SE, SOUTHPORT (910)454-0816 • labelshopper.com MON.–FRI.: 9am - 8pm • SAT.: 10am - 6pm • SUN.: 12pm - 5pm www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 20

Commu nity However, they were happy to let Jeff and I go check it out. There was no decorating happening at that level, but it was one of the prettiest lights I had ever seen. Mike Heilman, one of the volunteers, took us to the light and gave us the rundown. “The light cost around 40k,” he said. “Carving and sanding the lenses is the most expensive part of it.” The light was made by a company in Finland. It was easy to see how intricate of a job making a light like that must have been. Mike also told us that the light gets changed about every 10 years, which is extremely different from the very short life span that a regular bulb would have. Mike, Jeff, and I made our way back down to the decorating and it was all hands on deck. I’m not sure how the volunteer group didn’t get dizzy after the many times they had to circle around to make sure there was an adequate number of decorations. Dizzy or not, these guys were having a great time together and I watched them go around

with each decoration about five different times. Once it was done, they plugged it in, and we got to watch the magic happen.

Follow us on Facebook for Daily Specials! WARM Wishes for this Holiday Season! Our delicious SOUPS are served daily! SAME GREAT FOOD, AWESOME LOCAL AND DOMESTIC BEER MENU, WINE AND HARD SELTZERS, GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS AND HOMEMADE DESSERTS!

drystreetpizza.com

Open Monday - Saturday 11-8 101 East Brown Street, Southport • (910) 457- 5994 Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 21

Community Marty Heller, another volunteer, made a phone call to Bob, who was on the bottom, to make sure everyone was on the same page about what the self-timer hours should be. “4:30-11,” Marty announced. So now you know the hours. If you want to see the lighthouse in all its Christmas glory, make sure you go during those times. If you are considering climbing the lighthouse, just do it! The breathtaking views and the amazing volunteers that guide you along the way make it easy to forget about any fears you might have. Top tours between now and April are only offered on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. depending on space. My advice would be to take advantage of going in the off season, considering the smaller crowd and the beautiful weather that we still have. You never know, you might be able to see Santa and the reindeer with a view like that one.

Deliciously Unique Gifts For The Holidays 417 N Howe St Suite B • (910) 477-6387 SouthportCheeseShop.com M-F 9 am - 5 pm • Sat. 9 am - 4 pm.

Flotilla Party DECEMBER 9 6-8 pm

DJ MC Events and Entertainment

THE RIVER IS CALLING When you visit our boutique hotel on the banks of the Cape Fear River, you instantly embrace what sets us apart…

OUR TEAM AWAITS YOUR ARRIVAL 910-294-6070 • riverhotelofsouthport.com • 704 E. Moore Street, Southport, NC 28461 For investment opportunities, call Leesa Snyder at 910-777-1785 Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 22

360° Camera Santa Claus Food Truck

SOUTHPORT / HEART OF SOUTHPORT

NEW LISTING 502 W. BROWN STREET MLS # 100414955 • $ 935,000

SOUTHPORT / NEW CONSTRUCTION

PRE SALE 418 RAVEN GLEN DRIVE MLS #100411788 • $ 660,000

SOUTHPORT / NEW CONSTRUCTION

PRE SALE

SOUTHPORT / NEW CONSTRUCTION

PRE SALE

415 RAVEN GLEN DRIVE MLS #100411789 • $675,000

SOUTHPORT / CLOSE TO HISTORIC SOUTHPORT

443 RAVEN GLEN DRIVE MLS #100411787 • $685,000

SOUTHPORT / THE VILLAGE AT SOUTHPORT

LIVE MUSIC

Tasty Tunes Thursday evenings NEW LISTING

PRICE IMPROVEMENT

6-8 pm on the River Deck

211 E. 11TH STREET MLS #100415241 • $540,000

610 W. BROWN STREET, UNIT A MLS # 100404102 • $ 500,000

SOUTHPORT / ST. JAMES PLANTATION

BOLIVIA / 2.68 ACRES/POOL

MUST SEE!

NEW LISTING

4148 AMBLESTONE WAY SE MLS # 100405436 • $459,000

SOUTHPORT / HOMESITE

5 RESIDENTIAL LOTS RESTING OAK WAY LOTS 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 MLS #100414367 • $238,000

2379 ZION HILL ROAD SE MLS #100411447 • $900,000

SOUTHPORT / SMITHVILLE WOODS

SALE PENDING 1014 CAPTAIN ADKINS DRIVE MLS # 100385350 • $ 640,000

SOUTHPORT / COMMERCIAL

PRIME 2.6 +/- ACRES 1676 N. HOWE STREET MLS # 100370426 • $1,500,000

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

SOUTHPORT / HOMESITE

PRICE IMPROVEMENT 601 W. 9TH STREET MLS # 100362450 • $50,000

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 23

Find your piece of heaven on the southern coast... Brunswick County offers the dream of classic southern coastal living and exceptional value. Second home or primary residence, our agents can help you find your new relaxation station. DOING MORE FROM FOR SALE TO SOLD. That’s the sign of a RE/MAX agent.™

$585,000 3 1,782

BED BED

BATH

3 BED BED

SQ FT

3252 INLAND COVE DRIVE | SOUTHPORT

$380,000 2 1,865

BED

BATH

3 4

1056 SPRINGDALE ROAD | SOUTHPORT, NC

Jerry Biffle

BATH

SQ FT

BATH

Donna Findlay

SQ FT

809 CLARENDON AVENUE | SOUTHPORT

$230,000 BUILDABLE LOT

SQ FT

331 OCEAN BOULEVARD E| HOLDEN BEACH, NC

John Dorazio

Robert Carroll

SQ FT

$430,000 2 1,345

BED BED

$1,325,000 4 1,890

BED

SQ FT

106 NE 31ST STREET | OAK ISLAND

Bill Carmichael

BATH

4255 CHERRY LAUREL DR. SE | SOUTHPORT

$849,000 4 2,640 BATH

$285,000 2 1,206

BED BED

693 HADLEY COURT SE | BOLIVIA

BED BED

SQ FT

$349,000 2 1,824

LOT 4

4367 4 MARSH ELDER COURT | SOUTHPORT

Pam Lawrence

Carole Kozloski

Broker/REALTOR

(910) 294-1601

(910) 477-0388

(910) 465-2717

(703) 906-6056

(910) 269-3049

(910) 233-3333

(207) 409-6907

Bonner Herring

Mike Dissett

Rebecca McTavish

Diann Sauble

Sara Friesema

Jennifer Anderson

Broker/REALTOR

(772) 263-1417

(910) 520-2224

(540) 327-5700

(910) 713-9050

(973) 903-6329

(910) 612-8163

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 24

SOUTHERN COAST

$330,000 2 1,588

BED BED

BATH

SQ FT

3 BED BED

$975,000 2 936 BATH

2 BED

SQ FT

1301 W BEACH DRIVE | OAK ISLAND

$625,000

$41,000

3 Land Parcel .59 acres

BUILDABLE LOT

.28 Acres

BED

$599,000 3 1,750

BED BED

BATH

SQ FT

2006 FERRY LANDING DR SW | SUPPLY

Kim Parker

Blaney Williams

BATH

SQ FT

679 CAROLINA BAY COURT | SOUTHPORT, NC

1980 BARDS DRIVE SE | BOLIVIA

1105 N HOWE STREET | SOUTHPORT

$649,000 2 1,427

1214 23R MANDEVILLA DRIVE SE | BOLIVIA

$340,000 2 1,180 BATH

SQ FT

3350 CLUB VILLAS DRIVE, 1905 | SOUTHPORT, NC

$44,900 BUILDABLE LOT

LOT 44

BED

186 44 EGRET COURT | SUPPLY

$849,000 4 2,640 BATH

SQ FT

106 NE 31ST STREET | OAK ISLAND, NC

Peg Singer

Kim Cotton

35 BED BED

$1,299,000 5 3,183 BATH

SQ FT

3504 E DOLPHIN DRIVE | OAK ISLAND

3 BED BED

$829,000 4 3,596 BATH

SQ FT

3825 DRUARY LANE | SOUTHPORT

2 BED

$319,900 2 1,180 BATH

SQ FT

3350 SE CLUB VILLAS DR, # 503 | SOUTHPORT, NC

Niki Todd

Jordan Breasseale

Kathy Simmons

Broker/REALTOR

(910) 389-8376

(910) 990-0552

(919) 656-5692

(910) 712-2171

(910) 274-2648

(910) 712-4747

(860) 716-5667

Helen Wils

Sue Romano

Jessica Wainwright

Amanda MyKoo

Shellie Teubner

Broker/REALTOR

(631) 241-3007

(910) 442-5663

(910) 524-3463

(321) 848-8769

(828) 244-5064

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

319 N. Howe Street Southport, NC 28461 (910) 363-4565

southerncoastatthebeachnc.com

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 25

Community

Holiday Open House Santa Visits Duke Energy Visitor Center STORY AND PHOTO BY JEFFREY STITES

ooking for something a little different, but still Christmas-y, to do this holiday season? How about touring the brand new Brunswick Energy and Education Center at Duke Energy Nuclear Plant and meeting Santa while you’re there? The Education Center (8520 River Road in Southport) has been open by appointment only, but on Saturday, Dec. 2, in recognition of World Nuclear Energy Day, it will reopen to the public from 10 am to 1 pm. Visitors can explore the exhibit showing how nuclear energy works and what is behind the gates of the Southport facility. And bring your camera to capture photos of the little ones visiting with Santa! According to Duke Energy, Brunswick Nuclear Plant generates enough carbon-free electricity to power more than 1.5 million homes. The plant creates more than elec-

tricity; it also generates well-paying, longterm jobs and tax revenue for our schools and communities. The Energy and Education Center at the Brunswick Nuclear Plant opened in January, replacing the original education center at the plant. Normally open by appointment only, the Center includes approximately 3,000 square feet of exhibits and information on nuclear science, nuclear power generation and the history of the plant. Learn more about the center at http:// www.duke-energy.com/energy-education.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

World Nuclear Energy Day is held on Dec. 2 each year to commemorate the anniversary of the first nuclear chain reaction achieved by Enricho Fermi in 1942. Fifteen years later, on Dec. 2, 1957, the first commercial-sized reactor in Shippingport, Pennsylvania was started. The theme for 2023 is “power for the people.”

Southport

Trading Company

SWEATSHIRTS, T-SHIRTS & HATS APPAREL SOUVENIRS OF ALL KINDS 105 E. Moore St., Southport • 910-523-0624

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 26

“The day is an opportunity to celebrate the many benefits of nuclear energy worldwide,: according to event organizers Duke Energy is participating by opening all four of our Nuclear Energy Education Centers for drop-in visitors on Dec. 2.

All Take Home 6 Packs

Your favorite local hardware store M-F 7:30am-6:00pm Saturday 8:00am-4:00pm Sunday 10:00am-3:00pm

BUY TWO GET ONE

free

Plus Tax

ng i r u t Fea

Equal or Lesser Value • For Limited Time CLOSED ON DEC 24TH & 25TH Happy Holidays! At the following Dairy Queen locations: SHALLOTTE: 20 Naber Drive LONG BEACH: 5701 E. Oak Island Dr. SUPPLY: 106 Southport-Supply Rd., SE WILMINGTON: 5901 Oleander Drive

Every Pair Tells a Story! 8848 River Road SE, Southport • 910-477-6444

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 27

COMMUNITY

Birthday Wishes

Providing Joy To Families All Year Long STORY BY PATRICIA LANGER PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

uring the holiday season, so many of us become aware of the need to help others who are less fortunate. Children’s causes are especially prevalent in December, with reminders that tug at our heartstrings everywhere we go — Toys for Tots at the doctors’ office, giving trees at church, and gift donation tags at retail outlets. There are so many great opportunities to help Santa fulfill all those Christmas wish lists. But many kids need our help for another big occasion that’s often overlooked, perhaps because it is one that occurs every day of the year. Sometimes, families struggling financially can’t afford to buy presents their child’s birthday. Thanks to Jill Leach, underprivileged kids in Brunswick County are never overlooked, but rather celebrated, with birthday gifts from her ministry on their own special day. Birthday Wishes Ministry is an organization that exists to help children, who may not have the opportunity otherwise, have a very happy birthday. It’s heartwarming to know that we can bring a smile to a child’s face at Christmastime by dropping a few toys into a collection box or donating money to a holiday charity. Winding River resident Jill Leach couldn’t agree more. In fact, she and her husband did that kind of thing for many years. “My husband and I have always adopted a needy family for Christmas, even before

VP Deb Edwards accepts a grant from the St. James Service Club

we moved to NC.” The Leaches, who both retired early from careers in the pharmaceutical industry, moved from Danbury, Connecticut to North Carolina about 12 years ago. Having vacationed for many years at Jill’s parents’ home in Calabash, they were, like so many of us, lulled south by the scenic coastal lifestyle. A few years ago, Jill recounts, she was helping one particular family in Brunswick County purchase gifts for the kids at Christmastime, and was troubled when the young mother asked if she could hold one gift back. Her son’s birthday was coming up but she didn’t have enough money to pay her rent, so buying him birthday gifts was not an option. Touched by that moving encounter, Jill says she felt a calling from God to create the Birthday Wishes Ministry as a way to bring joy to children on their own special day. “When we bless others, God takes care of our needs” Jill believes. Jill founded Birthday Wishes Ministry (BWM) in 2021 with a desire “to provide birthday gifts to underprivileged children.” Today, she serves as president of the nonprofit, with good friend Deb Edwards serving as vice president. A seven-member board of directors guides the organization’s

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

At Crossroads Gathering Place

growing mission, carried out by an army of kind-hearted volunteers who have a soft spot for children. In the first year of operation, the grass roots organization was able to purchase gifts for 75 children, all identified through one elementary school. In 2022, Birthday Wishes gave gifts to 500 kids in nine Brunswick County schools. As the charity grew, the mission evolved “to support financially challenged families by providing educational birthday gifts to Brunswick County children.” In July of 2023, BWM formed a partnership with Brunswick Family Assistance (BFA) to broaden their reach and facilitate connections with families who receive financial help from the County for critical services. BFA now gives Birthday Wishes vouchers to families who have a child between the ages of 5-12 with an upcoming birthday. The voucher can be redeemed with BWM volunteers who are on site monthly. Birthday gifts are specific to each age group, and the same gift is given to boys and girls. Each child receives some type of learning game that can be played alone or with others. Going forward, the ministry expects to reach 800 children in 2024 through their affiliation with BFA. Although the ministry currently targets elementary and middle school children, Jill says the goal is to expand their reach to all infants through 14-year-olds registered with the Brunswick Family Assistance program. Alarmingly, that’s approximately 1,800 kids. For now, though, if a special need arises, BWM makes sure they

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 28

accommodate it. “No child will ever be turned down for a gift,” Jill states emphatically. What started out as one woman’s generosity has developed into an organization that requires significant funding. Birthday Wishes Ministry works tirelessly to raise money through donations, grants, sponsorships, and fundraisers. In 2022 BWM participated in the Holden Beach “Festival at the Sea,” selling raffle tickets for artwork donated by a local artist and raising $2,000 for the ministry. In the spring of 2023 volunteers organized a highly successful fundraising event called the “Ladies Spring Tea Party.” Ticket sales, a silent auction, games and shopping at that gala generated $6,400 for Birthday Wishes! In May of 2023, BWM opened a retail boutique space called Another Woman’s Treasures at Crossroads Gathering Place, on Long Beach Road in Oak Island. Sales

Volunteers gather to wrap birthday gifts

TO SMILE IS A GIFT 2023 Ladies Spring Tea Party

have been strong and profits go straight to the charity. In August of 2023, BWM received a $1,000 Neighborhood Grant from The Starbucks Foundation, in recognition of their impact in Brunswick County. The award supports grass-roots, community-led organizations that help uplift their neighbors. Birthday Wishes has received additional grants from BEMC, Focus Broadband, and the St. James Service Club. As word of the feel-good ministry spread and its reach expanded, the need for help became imperative. Today, there are about 50 Birthday Wishes volunteers, mainly residents of Winding River. They gather regularly to make homemade birthday cards for every child in the Birthday Wishes program and to wrap all those presents. Volunteers help with monthly gift distribution at the BFA facility in Bolivia, help with fundraising efforts, and help sort and deliver donations of inventory for the Oak Island boutique. “We are always looking for more volunteers and they can be from anywhere,” says Jill. “There are many other ways to get involved, besides volunteering,” Jill continued. “You can donate money or become a sponsor, or you can donate slightly used ladies accessories for our retail boutique. You can also purchase gifts for kids by using the Amazon Birthday Wish List link on our

website. The gifts are delivered right to the agency.” Birthday Wishes Ministry is a feel-good charity that provides a much-needed service every day of the year. The organization serves an important role in providing not just gifts, but hope and happiness to some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Children struggling through poverty deserve to feel special every day, and especially on their birthdays! For more information about how you can help Birthday Wishes Ministry, visit www. birthdaywishesministry.org or contact Jill Leach by phone at -910-712-2356 or email at jleach@birthdaywishesministry.org.

GENERAL l PREVENTIVE l COSMETIC

Same Day Service

(910) 550-2334

SmileHereToday.com Jill Leach at the St. James Service Club nonprofit event.

For New Patient Offers

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 29

Wooden Toy Shop

COMMUNITY

St. James Woodworkers Play Santa’s Elves STORY CONTRIBUTED

his year is the fourth annual toy making event for the St. James Woodworkers. On Tuesday, Dec. 5 from 10 am to noon, Robin Sadler, Coordinator, Columbus/Brunswick Counties, Toys for Tots, along with a member of the ROTC, will stop by St. James to accept hundreds of homemade wooden toys crafted by members of the St. James Woodworkers. The handoff will take place at the Woodland’s Park Pavilion, 2623 Parkridge Drive in St. James Plantation. The woodworking team was instrumental in making 400 toys this year. The team worked together in creating original patterns, cutting out toys, sanding, finishing, and final assembly. The team made vehicles of all kinds, cradles, and games, including chess/ checker boards, tic-tac-toe and more. New toys this year include rockets, walking ducks and dogs, and many

colorful, hand painted and decorated toys. All toys are finished with childsafe finishes and paints. Toys for Tots representatives will match toys with appropriately-aged children. Light refreshments will be served and all are welcome to come to meet the talented toy makers and see the toys on display. The entire collection

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

of toys will be displayed during the event. St. James residents and their guests are invited to attend. For additional information on this event, please contact St. James Woodworkers’ Toys for Tots lead, Bruce Williams at 610 585-7403, or email him at bbas50@comcast.net.

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 30

Beach Haven Designs A modern spin on coastal home decor using resin and glass to create one-of-a-kind original art

Beautifully Handmade GLASS • ART • GIFTS

A Gingerbread House Competition!

Judging begins at 10 am at Beach Haven Designs, winner will be announced at 5 pm Prize: $150 Gift Certificate to Beach Haven Designs

Hours: Tues-Thurs Noon-5 • Saturday 10-5

Closed Sunday-Monday

414 N. Howe Street, Southport NC BeachHavenDesigns.com • 240-426-2047 bette@beachhavendesigns.com

Celebrating 23 years of Adventure! Kayak Tours & Lessons Sales & Rentals Information & Reservations

910-454-0607

www.theadventurecompany.net

SOU

E 2023

E WIN

Wishing you a Joyous Holiday Season and Adventurous New Year!

S ER

ORT MAGA

ZIN

2023

Santa’s got your back for T FIND the HolidayHseason

807-A-Howe Street, Southport, NC

YACHT FINDERS MATCHING BUYERS AND SELLERS PRE-QUALIFIED BUYERS WAITING

We promote your boat everywhere!

Your Safety is our Top Priority SPRING DRIVE SPECIAL

• Complimentary multi-point inspection • Inspect fluid operating system for leaks • Inspect brakes for wear and performance • Inspect tires and suspension • Perform any warranty related repairs

(Call for details)

SERVICE SPECIALS ALIGNMENT SPECIAL $109.95

Get the most life out of your tires with a 4-wheel alignment special. We adjust your tire pressure, inspect suspension, tire life and your rims. Road test and provide a computerized printout.

ENGINE OIL & FILTER CHANGE SPECIAL (basic) $59.95 • Replace engine oil with synthetic blend • Replace oil filter and drain plug washer with Acura Genuine Parts • Check/Adjust fluid levels • Inspect wiper blades • Inspect tires and set pressure. Up to 5 quarts, synthetic oil extra, taxes and environmental fees are extra.

COMPLIMENTARY MULTI-POINT VEHICLE AND BATTERY INSPECTION WE INSPECT: • Brakes and Tires • Belts and Hoses • Cabin and Air Filter • Battery and Cables

• All fluids

POLLEN AND ENGINE AIR FILTER PACKAGE $99.95 • Replace engine air filter • Clean and service air box

• Replace cabin filter • Sanitize ventilation system

Prices may vary by model. Synthetic oil is additional. Not to be combined with any other discounts. Plus tax where applicable. Environmental disposal fees, if any, are extra. Present coupon at time of write up. Offer Expires December 31, 2023

BATTERY SPECIAL

• Inspect battery voltage and Amperage • Inspect charging system • Inspect alternator belt $20.00 off any Acura genuine 100 month battery

We are a Full Service Marine Brokerage House Captain Buddy Benton

Pick up and delivery service available

HONEST, PERSONAL SERVICE OVER 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS

YachtWorld • Boat Trader • boats.com • Boats4sale • Social Media

SALES, SERVICE & PARTS

Yachts • Cruisers • Bow Riders • Walk Arounds • Center Consoles

732-715-7788 www.yachtfindersonline.com

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

4952 New Centre Drive, Wilmington

(910) 613-6673

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 31

Community

Getting Her “Wish”

to Florida to train for professional wrestling. It was fun but wasn’t really “it.” But I still wanted to do entertainment, so I was like okay, I need a job that will give me flexibility for acting, and decided to do hair. Then I was in a position where I could train for acting at NL Acting Studio, which teaches the method acting technique, and I’ve been there a little over a year. I’ve done a handful of short independent films and I do the fighting stunts on them as well.

Local Connection To New Disney Movie

hen our friend Penny Watkins, owner of Boo & Roo’s Boutique in Southport, called to tell us her daughter Holland had been cast in Disney’s new animated feature “Wish,” and asked if we’d like to speak to her about it, we jumped at the chance. In my book, being in a Disney movie makes Holland a Disney Princess, and when you get the chance to talk to a Disney Princess, you take it. Can you tell me a little about yourself? Did you have any theatrical experience as a kid?

I grew up in southern Virginia, a tiny truck stop town called Emporia. I did one musical as a kid but I definitely don’t count it towards my acting experience.

Can you tell me a little about your acting career to this point?

So I wanted to major in it in college but everyone was like “you don’t major in a

hobby” and really convinced me not to do it. So I chose medicine, but I remember I would go to the ECU musical performances they had and I would be so mad at myself for listening to everyone and not majoring in what I was really passionate about. I mean I wanted to do film and tv since I was six years old. I had no passion for medicine. But senior year of college I took an acting elective and my teacher was like “You are hilarious and have a true talent for this.” He asked me why I was majoring in medicine and I was like, well, I don’t know. He told

Can you tell us little about what Wish is about, and your character in the story?

I’m not gonna lie, I’m honestly not sure what “Wish” is about. I’ll find out November 22! But my character is a little mouse and I can’t give too much away, but it’s an important moment in the story.

me that I would probably regret it one day if I didn’t go for acting and he was right. At the time I was playing rugby so I moved

How did you get cast? What was that experience like? I took a seminar with the Animation Casting Director Jamie Sparer Roberts over Zoom. Wasn’t expecting anything out of it other than learning about how they cast for their animated features. I asked her a ques-

Thank You for voting us “Favorite Dinner With A View”

When Fresh Matters, You’ll Be Hooked!

Now Open: Our New Tiki Bar! Waterfront Dining • Spectacular Views Exceptional Service • Fresh Local Seafood Full Sushi Dinner Menu (after 4pm)

Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner

We’ll See You Dockside! 4907 Fish Factory Rd • (910) 477-6616 rustyhooksdockside.com Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 32

. l e n r s n e

e r I -

r t r -

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 33

Community tion and she asked me “Is that your real voice?” I said yeah, I naturally sound like a 7-year-old. She said “No, it is the coolest voice I’ve ever heard!” So then I saw I had a private message from her asking me to send her an email that she had something for me, and it was the audition. I submitted it the next day and she calls me about a month later to tell me I booked the role. She was like aren’t you excited!! And I was in shock. All I said was “I think so.” She went on to say how she has never sent anyone an audition in a class and had them book the role. She was so nice too, I talked to her a few times after that phone call and she assured me that just because I haven’t been acting very long doesn’t mean that I didn’t work hard to get the role. She said she was so happy and proud of me.

One thing I always wonder, do you do voice to animation, or do they animate to the dialogue, I guess I mean which comes first? They animate to the dialogue.

What’s the biggest challenge to What’s next for you? voice acting?

MOVING OUT OF FLORIDA!!! To either The biggest challenge is not havAtlanta or Los Angeles. I have a theatrical ing a scene partner to work off of. agent now (film and tv) and so I have to A lot of acting is listening and remove as Florida does not film here. And tosponding to your partner. When day I have a meeting with my mentor about you do animation, you’re recording getting an animation agent, so hopefully I alone with the director. They can will have one in the next few weeks, and guide you, but you have to really then more animated work. have a good understanding of your character and the scene. “Wish” is in theaters now, and we tracked down Disney’s description of the movie for you. We can’t wait to go and see What’s the best thing about voice acting as opposed to live our new mouse friend!

action?

“In “Wish,” Asha, a sharp-witted idealNo one can see me! I love that the ist, makes a wish so powerful that it is anmost. swered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, How does it feel to be in a Asha and Star confront a most formidaDisney animated feature? Are ble foe—the ruler of Rosas, King Magnifiyou a Disney fan? co—to save her community and prove that WILD! Absolutely wild. Anima- when the will of one courageous human tion is hard to break into and for a connects with the magic of the stars, wonDisney move to be my first big fea- drous things can happen.” ture… just wild. Oh yes, I’m a huge Disney fan. I have an annual pass and a “Frozen” tattoo on my leg.

Oh No! It’s December Already!

Unique and Beautiful Things 517 N Howe Street • Southport, NC 28461 • 910-946-1448 • Hours Mon-Sat 10-5 www.sedonasouth.net Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 34

Bistro Bucks are Back!

For every $100 in GIFT CERTIFICATES you purchase, receive $20 back in Bistro Bucks!

Give a Gift and Get a Gift! Available til December 23rd

Happy Holidays from Our Family to Yours 2016

SOUTHPORT MAGAZINE

2015

2016

2017

Win

ner

2018

2019

SOUTHPORT MAGAZINE

2020

MAGGIES Winner 2021

2020

2021

MAGGIES 2022

2022

RESERVATIONS ACCEPTED • 309 N. Howe St. • 910-457-0801 Visit our website to view our menu www.mrpsbistro.com Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 35

Small Business

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

Oh So Soft Cashmere

The one Little Shop You Don’t Want to Miss

j.mills studio

Bracelets • Earrings • Necklaces • Rings In 14k Gold Filled And Sterling Silver

517 N Howe St Southport, NC 28462 910-946-1448 • Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 sedonasouth.net

Artisan Jewelry Handmade in North Carolina Mon-Sat 10:30am-5pm • 619 N. Howe • Southport, NC 910-363-6939 • www.MadRiverDesigns.com

Have an axe enthusiast on your list? We have professional axes for sale. We are open 7 days a week from 11-11

Throw Baxe

806 N. Howe Street, Southport (910) 363-4286

Beautiful Writing Journals to Inspire Creativity The one Little Shop You Don’t Want to Miss 517 N Howe St Southport, NC 28462 910-946-1448 • Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 sedonasouth.net

THE RADIANCE DUO Personalized Beach House Maps

Let us personalize a beach house map for your home or vacation rental! We can match any custom color or choose from over 30 options.

Secret of the Islands Salt Scrub Locally Manufactured. Choice of your Favorite Fragrances, the perfect Hand Cleanse!

Mulberry Maps

128 Country Club Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465 www.mulberrymaps.com Upstairs at Crossroads Gathering Place

Ports of Calls Bistro

116 N Howe Street • (910) 457-4544 portsofcallbistro.com

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Gift Certificates!

Make a great gift for anyone on your list!

Blue Cow Grille

108 E Moore St, Southport (910) 363-4402 www.bluecowgrille.com

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 36

The Radiance Duo Gift Set includes the innovative Radiance Wash that allows you to clean and polish your jewelry while you are still wearing it; and the professional grade brush gives you a luxurious deep cleaning experience. This is a must-have gift set for any jewelry lover! CATTAIL COTTAGE 416 N. Howe Street 910-454-4533 www.cattailcottagenc.com follow us on facebook!

ROSY RING CANDLES

Jewelry

Sparkle & Shine this Holiday Season! Who can resist a little bling! After all good things come in small packages. We’ve got an amazing selection for you this Holiday Season, plus we will gift wrap for FREE

The Pearl

114N Howe Street • (910) 457-0921

Oak Island, Southport, and Caswell Beach Tea Towels

These flour sack tea towels are 100% cotton and are available for Oak Island, Southport, and Caswell Beach.

Mulberry Maps

128 Country Club Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465 www.mulberrymaps.com Upstairs at Crossroads Gathering Place

Hand-poured, coconut wax blended scented candles available in a variety of fragrances you are sure to love. While not burning, enjoy a beautiful vessel with dried pressed flowers between panes of glass. Elegant & functional! CATTAIL COTTAGE 416 N. Howe Street 910-454-4533 www.cattailcottagenc.com

Flat Fish

Blue Cow Apparel

Be Hip & Stylish, and toasty warm all winter!

Blue Cow Grille

108 E Moore St, Southport (910) 363-4402 www.bluecowgrille.com

PHONE HOLDER STRAPS This fun crossbody cell phone strap has a multifunctional design that allows your phone to hang at your side hands free. Comes in a variety of colors, prints, and patterns. CATTAIL COTTAGE 416 N. Howe Street 910-454-4533 www.cattailcottagenc.com follow us on facebook!

Ready-to-hang fish, some are happy, some are sad, some have complete contempt for humanity. All of our eclectic aquarium members will greet you every morning and you just won’t be able to take yourself very seriously any more! Find them at The Painted Mermaid (817 N Howe Street, Southport)

Blue Earth Works blueearthworks.com

Gift Certificate

Do you have a person on your list hard to buy for? Throw Baxe axe house and board game lounge! We are open 7 days a week from 11-11

Throw Baxe

806 N. Howe Street, Southport (910) 363-4286

Spa Treatment Pamper yourself with all Natural Goat Milk Lotions made by Bates Family Farm. Bates is a family run, veteran owned farm out of VA. They make great stocking stuffers or secret Santa gifts! And they smell & feel fantastic.

The Pearl

114N Howe Street (910) 457-0921

Liiton Mountain Peak Crystal

Whiskey Glasses: Mt. Fuji • K2 • Grand Canyon Mont Blanc • Everest • Mt. Denali Also Available: Everest Decanter • Leather Coaster Set

For The Man Who’s Tough To Surprise Mon-Sat 10:30am-5pm • 619 N. Howe • Southport, NC 910-363-6939 • www.MadRiverDesigns.com

Moving Magical Sandscapes

Is your person already a Throw Baxe fan?

Then grab them a tee shirt or a car magnet to support their favorite place. We are open 7 days a week from 11-11

Throw Baxe

806 N. Howe Street, Southport (910) 363-4286

Baby Knit Cardigan

The one Little Shop You Don’t Want to Miss

pure organic cotton • adorable embroidery eco-friendly • comfy and cozy

517 N Howe St Southport, NC 28462 910-946-1448 • Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 sedonasouth.net

Gifts That Will Be Treasured By Everyone Mon-Sat 10:30am-5pm • 619 N. Howe • Southport, NC 910-363-6939 • www.MadRiverDesigns.com

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 37

CLAY BIRD FEEDERS

Sparkle and Shine Collection

A must-have for any bird lover! This unique clay bird feeder is proudly made in the USA. Simply fill feeder at the top, sit back, and watch as your birds enjoy!

Blue Cow sweatshirts!

Show your love for the best burgers in town!

Blue Cow Grille

CATTAIL COTTAGE 416 N. Howe Street 910-454-4533 www.cattailcottagenc.com follow us on facebook!

Give them something new! Grab a gift certificate. We are open 7 days a week from 11-11

Throw Baxe

108 E Moore St, Southport (910) 363-4402 www.bluecowgrille.com

517 N Howe St Southport, NC 28462 910-946-1448 • Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 sedonasouth.net

Gifts for Under $15

Pewter Ornaments made in Nova Scotia - Part of Global Giving 10% of Profits go towards Peace Initiatives, Save our Oceans, Wild Spaces, Arts, Plant a Tree & Animal Welfare! What a great cause & these make amazing stocking stuffers or add them to a gift for an extra special touch!

806 N. Howe Street, Southport (910) 363-4286

The one Little Shop You Don’t Want to Miss

The Pearl

114N Howe Street • (910) 457-0921

Purses A perfect bag is stylish, bold, colorful & practical. Enjoy the little things in life and buy the bag! We’ve have a nice selection of styles, colors, and sizes waiting for you.

The Pearl

114N Howe Street • (910) 457-0921

Mulberry Maps

Handcrafted Mugs

Glazed with food safe glazes, coffee just tastes better in a new mug. Find them at The Painted Mermaid (817 N Howe Street, Southport)

Blue Earth Works blueearthworks.com

Personalized maps are available for dozens of locations throughout the Carolinas. All maps are available in multiple sizes and are offered with free shipping online or for pickup at Crossroads.

Mulberry Maps

128 Country Club Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465 www.mulberrymaps.com Upstairs at Crossroads Gathering Place

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Consuela

Bags • Totes • Wallets • Card Holders • Accessories

Make Today Ridiculously Awesome Mon-Sat 10:30am-5pm • 619 N. Howe • Southport, NC 910-363-6939 • www.MadRiverDesigns.com

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 38

Saturday Nov. 25 2023

All 2023 Inventory On-Sale for the Holidays. Up to $4000 off MSRP. Limited Inventory Availability. Call or visit us today! Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 39

SHOWCASE

Sea Notes Holiday Show

Tickets Required For Annual Free Concert STORY CONTRIBUTED

ea Notes Choral Society kicks off its upcoming 50th anniversary with an extra special Christmas concert, A Quartet for Christmas, at Odell Williamson Auditorium on the campus of Brunswick Community College. The choral group will perform at 3 pm on Dec. 2 and 3. All four of the group’s talented directors — Bob Marks, Dianne Hoffman, Marie Pierre Fletcher, and Cindy Sellers — will take the baton for a portion of the concert. Each director has chosen a beautiful set of Christmas music sure to put everyone in the festive holiday spirit. Margaret Smicklas will join the choir as accompanist. Concerts are always free to the public, but tickets are required for Christmas concerts to ensure a seat. Free

tickets are available at the following locations: Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce, 910-457-6964 Ricky Evans Gallery in Southport, 910-457-1129 The Shoe Center, Villages at Brunswick Forest in Leland, 910-371-9881 Port City Java, Olde Waterford Way in Leland, 910-383-2429 Scott’s Farm and Family, Main Street in Shallotte, 910-755-6055

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Odell Williamson Auditorium Brunswick Community College

Donations are always welcome as Sea

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 40

Notes is a non-profit organization. For more information, visit www.seanotes.com.

Comprehensive routine exams, medical eye care, emergency care Full optical with designer frames and contact lenses

Dr. Michael Howard

Most insurances accepted

Vision Source of Brunswick

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

4633 Long Beach Road Southport, NC 28461

(910) 457-6667

www.howardeye.com

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 41

Local Experts

for all your real estate needs!

1523 Shepard Road Southport 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $1,995,000

516 Burrington Avenue Southport 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $689,000

6221 Navigator Way The Landing at Southport 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $986,000

1117 N. Lord Street Southport 3 bed | 2 bath, $574,900

1002 Bonner Bussells Drive Smithville Woods 3 bed | 2 bath, $689,000

105 NE 14th Street Oak Island 3 bed | 2 bath, $599,900

5099 Fernwood Drive Harbor Oaks 3 bed | 3 bath, $749,000

704 W. 9th Street Southport 3 bed | 2 bath, $399,900

1225 Hidden Shores Drive Hidden Shores 4 bed | 3 bath, $739,000

4928 Abbington Oaks Way Groves at Southport 3 bed | 2 bath, $329,000

1186 Long Leaf Road Boiling Spring Lakes 3 bed | 2 bath, $250,000

7008 E. Oak Island Drive Oak Island 3 bed | 3 bath, $720,000

Brian Deutsch

Myles Williams

Kim Anne Russ

Pamela Frandano

Brian Quinn

Pam Hayes

Katherine Hufham

Verilyn McKee

Sarah Smith

Sherol Lappala

Lee Ann Walker

Katherine Wooten

Mary Carneiro

Tanya Broussard

Sally Stidham

Karen Saunders

Valerie Earman

Laura LeFevre

Joe LeFevre

Joey Annabelle Morgan Quinn Kronenwetter Pivarnik

S O U T H P O R T- R E A LT Y.C O M Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 42

Fred Fiss

David Thorp

727 N. HOWE STREET (910) 457-7676 sales@southport-realty.com

145 Eagle Court

3040 E. Fairway Circle

502 Genoes Point Road

803 Gordon Lewis Drive

L ockwood Folly - New Construction

L ockwood Folly - Ne-w Construction

Winnabow - Waterfront with Dock

3 bed | 3.5 bath | $749,900

3 bed | 2 bath | $599,900

3 bed | 2 bath | $595,900

2 bed | 1.5 bath | $397,500

River Hideaway

The Blue Dog Cottage

Rivers Edge 223

Mad River Cottage

Salt Nook Cottage

Paradise Cove Townhome

2 bed | 2 bath

3 bed | 2 bath

1 bed | 1 bath

2 bed | 2 bath

2 bed | 3 bath

3 bed | 3 bath

Vacation Rental

Karen Throckmorton

MERRY Christmas

Branch Manager NMLS #112668

910-471-4200 KThrockmorton@ihmcloans.com

Santa has something for everyone when you finance your home with Integrity Home Mortgage!

Here to help find the home financing that suits your current and future financial needs. 3/2/1, 2/1, and 1/0 Buydown Options Conventional Loans VA, FHA, USDA

Down Payment Assistance Programs/100% Financing Options Bank Statement Loan Programs And many more.

For informational purposes only. All mortgage loan applicants are subject to underwriting and qualification guidelines. This is not a commitment to lend. Integrity Home Mortgage Corporation is licensed in DC, DE, FL, MD, NC, NM, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA and WV. NMLS ID #208516 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 43

SHOWCASE

Gallery Holiday Events Holiday Shopping and a Mug Challenge STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

oliday cheer abounds at Franklin Square Gallery! The Gallery is ready for the season with Yuletide decor, festive events and an abundance of 2D and 3D art to enjoy — and purchase — throughout the month of December.

Whether you are looking for unique holiday gifts for loved ones or a special hostess gift for Christmas or Chanukah, look no further than the Gallery’s Holiday Treasures and Gift Shoppe, open now through Dec. 22. Here you will find original, handcrafted ornaments, jewelry, accessories, glass and ink art, cards, paintings, pottery and more — unique pieces for everyone on your list. Also on display is the Gallery’s annual Holiday Mug Challenge. Visitors will see a variety of holiday-themed

mugs and may purchase them as gifts or simply vote for their favorites by dropping quarters in the ones they like best. This fundraiser benefits the lucky recipients gifted with these handmade pieces, and also benefits the Gallery, since proceeds from the Holiday Mug Challenge will go toward the upkeep and maintenance of the Gallery’s historic home. Next, the public is invited to enjoy a festive evening at the Gallery’s First Friday event on Dec. 1 from 5-7 pm. Visitors will be able to enjoy compli-

mentary hors d’oeuvres and wine while browsing the paintings and ceramic art featured for the holiday season.

Celebrating 13 Years of Service CHRISTMAS EVE MEAL

Sunday December 24th • 12:00 pm to 6:30 PM

The evening will feature a special performance of holiday classics by the singing She-ettes, along with live art-making demonstrations by talented member artists in the Gallery’s upstairs studio. Artists demonstrating their work include Tina Madonia, an award-winning landscape, still life and portrait painter based in Bolivia, and Deb Voso, a mixed media artist who focuses on fluid art techniques including the use of resin, inks, metals and various acrylic paint. Hours during November and December are 10 am to 4 pm, Monday through Saturday. There is never a charge for admission at Franklin Square Gallery, which is located at 130 E. West St. in Southport, just three blocks from the waterfront, in the historic blue building at the edge of Franklin Square Park.

Call us to reserve seating or to book your Holiday Gatherings throughout December: 910-457-4544

New Year’s Eve dinner

Sunday, December 31st • Seatings from 5pm to 9pm

We are featuring a Four-Course Prix Fixe Dinner centered on Entrée Choices of a 12 Oz. Butter and Rosemary basted Dry Aged Ribeye, or a Pan-Roasted and herbed Airline Cut Chicken, served with choice of holiday Appetizers, Salads, and Desert.

With Live Music, this festive Four Course dinner will feature a Special New Year’s Soup or Appetizer, & choice of Salads. For Entrées, we’ll offer a choice of one-half Duck, Thai style, or a Coffee Crusted 8oz. Filet of Beef Tenderloin, both with plentiful sides. Desert will feature a Mango-Coconut Crème Brûlée or Red Velvet Cake, both offered with Whipped Cream and Berries.

The Full Menus for both of the these events are posted on our Facebook Page Online Ordering is Currently Available via our Website:

www.portsofcallbistro.com

Every Day is a Mosaic of Fresh Global Flavors at Ports of Call!

Awards: Best International Cuisine 2023 Most Creative Menu, 2021, 2019; Most Creative Chef, 2020 People’s Choice Awards: Best Bistro – ( 2023, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2013)

Our Regular Hours: Tuesday - Saturday Lunch: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm Tuesday - Thursday Dinner: 5:00 – 8:30 pm Friday & Saturday Dinner: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm • Sunday Brunch: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Please call our Main Reservations Line: (910) 457-4544 for Dine-In Seating Reservations and For Take-Out Orders

116 North Howe Street, Historic Downtown Southport

FINE INTERNATIONAL BISTRO DINING & GOURMET GIFT ITEMS • DINE IN/TAKE OUT • portsofcallbistro.com Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 44

HOLIDAY SHOPPING AT THE GALLERY Thru Dec 22

“H iday Gift Sh ”

Annual Christmas Mugs Challenge “F st Friday H iday Recepti Decemb 1, 5-7 pm

“Gall y Memb s Art Sh ”

WE HAVE LIVE CHRISTMAS TREES!!!

All t f sale Gift c ds available

anklinsqu egall y.c

We are open

910-547-5450 130 E West S eet, S thp t, NC

DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

1200 North Howe St. Southport 336.953.4254 • allinbloomlandscape.com

”

VOTED BEST OUTDOOR SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

H iday Gall y H rs: M day-Sat day, 10 am-4 pm Gall y closes 12/22/23 - 2/19/24

BUILD A STRATEGIC FINANCIAL LIFE WITH US

For products and services that can help form the foundation of your ﬁnancial life, turn to Prudential Advisors. ASSET PROTECTION • Life Insurance

• Disability Income Insurance • Long-Term Care Insurance

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT • Financial Planning

• Asset Management

INVESTMENT AND RETIREMENT PLANNING NEEDS

• Business Continuation Funding

• IRAs and Educational IRAs

• Key Person Insurance

• Annuities

• Mutual Funds

• Managed Money Accounts • SIMPLE IRAs and 401(k)s

BUSINESS PLANNING NEEDS

• Executive Compensation Funding • Non-Qualiﬁed Deferred Compensation • Group Beneﬁts

910-444-2977 BUDDY BENTON, CMFC

Financial Planner CA Insurance License 0F83089 Prudential Advisors 1433 N. Howe Street, Southport NC 28461 buddy.benton@prudential.com www.prudential.com/advisor/ernest-benton

• Estate Planning Strategies

Prudential Advisors is a brand name of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries. Life Insurance and annuities are issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ, and its affiliates. Long-term care and disability income insurance are issued by unaffiliated insurers and sold through Prudential Insurance Agency, LLC (PIA). Availability varies by carrier and state Offering financial planning and investment advisory services and programs through Pruco Securities, LLC (Pruco), under the marketing name Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to a separate client agreement. Offering insurance and securities products and services as a registered representative of Pruco, and an agent of issuing insurance companies. 1-800-778-2255. Prudential, the Prudential logo, the Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc., and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide.

Move forward with conﬁdence that Prudential Advisors is ready to help you meet your ﬁnancial challenges. 1027610-00003-00 EXP. 01.24.2025

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 45

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 46

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 47

Biz Feature

Heritage Farm Market Winter Is A Great Time To Eat Your Greens STORY BY LISA STITES PHOTOS BY LAUREN CLEMMONS

long with the turkey, mashed potatoes, and cookies on our holiday tables, we really should save room for vegetables. Heritage Fresh Market in Supply has plenty to fill out your holiday spread, and it’s a great option for a little holiday shopping too. For many years, the Clemmons family grew row crops on their Brunswick County farm, which means they dealt with larger corporations to sell their products. But beginning in 2019, they began growing food to sell right here in Brunswick County. “Now we’re able to grow products to bring directly to the public. It’s great having that interaction and building those relationships,” Lauren Clemmons said. Lauren and husband Jody are part of the 4th generation family farm behind Heritage Fresh Market, 20 Sellers Street in Supply (off U.S. 17). The Clemmons family had an open air stand initially to sell their first crop of strawberries in the spring of 2020. They opened the current market in November of that same year. “Seeing people enjoying what we’re growing is extremely rewarding,” Lauren said. The family farm tradition is carried on through the people, but also in the Market building itself. According to the Market’s website, https://www.heritagefreshmarket.com/, materials from previous buildings on the site were incorporated into the beautiful market. “The counter is made of reclaimed black walnut that was taken from the old barns and the tin along the side of the counter came from

one of the tobacco barns Waddell built,” the website reads. And now the next generation is learning the ropes. The couple’s oldest, son Cole joined

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

the farming team after earning a degree in Agriculture, like his father before him. Daughter Katie helps Lauren run the Market, and their youngest, Cori Lee, also helps out at the Market when she’s not in school. Katie also lends her name to the homemade ice cream sold in The Market. They freeze fruit when it’s fresh so they can use it all year long, and they also offer seasonal flavors, like pumpkin pie ice cream. Seasonal offerings are important, and wintertime is no exception. Many people know that the spring and summer farmers markets are full of fresh, locally grown produce. Heritage Fresh Market is too, but also offers seasonal produce throughout the year. In the winter, shoppers can find an abundance of apples, beets, carrots, cabbage, celery, collard greens, herbs, kale, mustard greens, onions, pears, potatoes, pumpkin, rutabaga, sweet potatoes, turnips, and winter squash. And winter is the perfect time for greens. “Collards are a big thing for us in the winter,” Lauren said, though mustard greens are her favorite. She said she prepares them simply, first

starting off with rendering down some kind of meat, like bacon or ham. The greens are then cooked in the meat drippings. There are plenty of fresh vegetables for everything from holiday meals to easy weeknight favorites, and if you don’t feel like cooking, prepared meals are available too, like soups, quiche, enchiladas, lasagna, pizzas, pot pies and casseroles. Cold storage options also include a variety of meats and pastas. If there’s a foodie on your gift list this year, or if you want some new ideas for office gifts, the Market also carries gourmet popcorn, candy, and jarred items like salsas and apple butter. “Heritage Fresh Market offers a wide variety of fresh winter produce including collards, mustard greens, turnips, sweet potatoes, cabbage, pecans, and more! We have all you need to prepare fresh, seasonal meals that are certain to bring joy during your time around the dinner table,” Lauren said.

Let owner, Cheryl Robinson create a custom floral arrangement for you! Birthdays | Anniversaries Weddings | Funerals 919 N. Howe St., Southport

910-457-4428

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 48

Meet Our

Southport Team!

SERVICES:

Minimally Invasive Robotic Surgery Advance Prostate Cancer Care Kidney & Bladder Cancer Surgery Treatment For Erectile Dysfunction Male and Female Incontinence

The most complete urological services in the region. Over 50 plus years, four generations of making you a part of our family. Based in Wilmington and Southport.

Urolifts For Treating Enlarged Prostate Low Testosterone Treatment

U ROLO GY ASSO CIAT ES SOU T H EAST ERN NORT H CAROLI NA

www.wilmingtonurology.com

NOW SCHEDULING

VASECTOMIES AT OUR

SOUTHPORT LOCATION!

Schedule your appointment today!

(910) 763-6251

1905 Glen Meade Road Wilmington, NC 4222 Long Beach Road SE Suite B Southport, NC (In the former Dosher Urgent Care building)

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 49

Chamber of Commerce News

Ann Hollingsworth Paying Tribute To A Community Icon STORY BY JEFFREY STITES

f you live here and are on Facebook, you’ve seen Ann Hollingsworth. She’s the adorable lady in the hat you’ve seen standing in front of businesses smiling, with a post about about how great that business, and our entire community, is. The best thing about Ann was that she really meant it. She loved her community and we loved her back. We will miss her dearly, but the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce is making sure her memory lives on with the renaming of an award and a special day of remembrance.

“Ann Hollingsworth was a friend to the business community and her passing left us with a great desire to acknowledge her impact,” said Chamber Executive Vice President Karen Sphar. “The Chamber Board of Directors voted to do this through two action items. One was to rename the Ambassador of the Year Award to the Ann Holling-

sworth Ambassador of the Year Award. The second is to hold a ‘Promote Like Ann Day’ on Thursday, Dec. 14. Ann was a great example of a Chamber Ambassador. “Ann Hollingsworth joined the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce as a booster member and quickly became a member of our ambassador program,” said Sphar. “Ambassadors are the customer service agents of the Chamber who visit with members and attend Chamber functions. Ann was the first one at an after hours, ribbon cutting or anniversary celebration but most importantly she always remembered your name and made the business owner feel appreciated. She embodied the spirit of an ambassador and earned Ambassador of the Year for several years. The Ann Hollingsworth Ambassador of the Year Award will be announced at the Chamber’s annual meeting in June.”

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Later this month, Chamber member or not, we’ll all get a chance to celebrate our business community in a way Ann would have truly loved. “As an entrepreneur, she understood the struggles of our business community and the power of selfless promotion,” said Sphar. “She took great joy in promoting different busi-

nesses with a simple post standing with the owner in front of their business. Those simple posts were powerful and reached a broader audience than the business owners could for themselves. The ‘Promote it Like Ann Day’ is a tribute to Ann, as we are asking our business community on Thursday, December 14 to selflessly visit another business, take a photo outside that business, post it to their social media pages and tag the Chamber and Ann. We hope to flood social media that day with selfless promotion of our business community in Ann’s memory.”

residents and visitors in planning their dining out options during the holidays. But when the holidays are over, your local small businesses still need your support. “Shopping small is a yearround activity and we encourage you to Go Local throughout the year,” said Karen Sphar, Executive Vice President of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce.

GOING LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS

When you do your holiday shopping in locally-owned small businesses everyone wins. You get a fun day out in your community, you’ll be able to find unique gifts for everyone on your list (maybe even one for yourself), and you’ll be supporting the businesses that make our community thrive. The Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce is helping to make shopping and eating local even easier this year. When you’re out looking for locally-owned or locally-operated businesses for your holiday shopping, you’ll find it much easier to identify them through a new program called “Local Owned Local Operated.” Participating Chamber member businesses that are locally owned or locally operated will display an oversized circular sticker on their doors identifying them easily to customers. The Chamber is also identifying those participating businesses in its online business directory at www.southport-oakisland.com under a special category marked Local Owned/Local Operated. Jackie Del Prete, Dunes Mercantile Gifts & Guitars, encountered a similar program while visiting Pittsburgh, PA this summer. As chairman of the Chamber’s Business Development Committee, Del Prete organized the program for the Chamber as a new way to support the local business community. And if all that holiday shopping leaves you a bit peckish, the Chamber has you covered there too. The Chamber will post restaurant holiday hours on the Chamber’s Facebook page to assist

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 50

Let Us Help You Achieve the Lawn of Your Dreams • Custom Water Features • Landscape & Hardscape Design • Maintenance

We work hard, so you don’t have to!

724 N. Howe St. | Open 7 Days a Week

We’re Growing Come Grow With Us! Welcoming new properties now!

Extensive Rental Marketing Strategy Friendly Guest Services Representatives

Property Management for Vacation & Long Term Rentals Full-Service Maintenance & Housekeeping

Treat Your Yard and Garden This Christmas

24/7 Online Reservations

Oak Island Accommodations

Get an

Screened Organic Topsoil, Garden Compost, Fill Dirt, Mulches, Eco Chips, Longleaf Pine Straw Decorative and Driveway Gravels, Various River Rock, Drainage Rock, Landscape and Focal Boulders, Flagstone, Mortar Sand, Stepping Stones and Pavers, Concrete Tile Benches, Outdoor Furniture, Fire Pits, Seasoned Firewood, Raised Garden Beds, Driftwood, Artisan Garden Decor, Metal Palm Trees, Authentic Mexican Talavera Pottery and Planters, Kindness Rock Kits Hometown Proud Second Generation Family Owned and Operated Over 50 years

instant rental projection at the website below

855.942.8835 | ComeToOakIsland.co

910-443-0819

www.hoffmanecoworks.com

Located through gate at end of Trail’s End Road, Hwy. 211 across from Wendy’s

Retro Meets Modern Vibe Uniquely remodeled rooms Beautiful outdoor spaces with fire pit

Monday - Thursday 5-9pm • Friday-Saturday - 5-9:30pm • Closed on Sundays

The Boiling Spring Lakes Motel 2 North Shore Drive (910) 845-2893

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 51

ART BEAT

Beachy Christmas

assessments. I was determined to show the state that they had mastered the SOLs by creating assessments, and I found that I was actually very creative. Many lessons and assessments involved me having to illustrate standards.”

Remembering the Shell Art of Donna Davis STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

n October, the St. James Artisans community suffered a sudden loss with the passing of beloved artist and friend Donna Davis. Her loss has been palpable. She was an amazing artist and a teacher, cheerleader, dear sister, and beautiful friend to everyone who met her. Her cheerful demeanor and genuine kindness are sorely missed. This time of year, I especially miss seeing her shell Christmas trees displayed around the Artisans Gallery on Howe. It seemed fitting to re-print the Christmas Art Beat I wrote about her a few years ago.

After a lifetime of military life and constantly moving, Donna Davis is happy to have her toes in the sand here on the coast and her artwork covered in seashells. “My artwork began from a love of looking for and collecting seashells while walking on the beach,” she said. “I

just kept collecting and collecting, and I ended up with way too many seashells. I started creating things and then had to find a way to sell them because I was running out of room!” Davis makes beautiful decorative pieces such as wreaths, coneshaped trees, ornaments, and other framed pieces. “I make my art from local shells and shell pieces as well as shells I get from wholesale stores,” she said. “It starts with whatever seashells I happen to have at hand and then supplement with my stash of other seashells. My process when I make seashell trees starts with a styrofoam cone. Then I cover the bottom with cork, attach the base, and then start adding seashells (larger to smaller) from the bottom up to the top. I take into consideration color and shapes as I build the tree. No matter what I’m making, it’s always like putting a puzzle together.”

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

As a Southern Connecticut State University graduate, Davis holds a

physical and health education degree. Her artistic creativity really grew after she started working with special needs kids. “My last job before retiring was as a Special Education Teacher for 7th and 8th grade students with learning disabilities,” said Davis. “This is where my creativity really kicked in, as I needed to find several different ways to help my students learn and assess what they have learned. With the VA Standards of Learning assessments (state tests), many of my students qualified for alternative

Gathering inspiration from her beach finds is easy for Davis as she sees beauty even in the broken shells. “I get my inspiration from the beauty of the seashells, especially the broken ones,” she said. “In teaching my students with special needs, I focused on the students’ strengths rather than their disabilities. In doing so, there was always a positive outcome. With the seashells, rather than looking at the brokenness, I focus on the colors and shapes and want to show that in using them in my artwork. Walking the beach for hours provides lots of time to think about how I’d use a particular seashell in a piece of art,” she said. The biggest influences in her artwork are the availability of seashells and just what she feels like making at any particular time. “I prefer to just create rather than try to figure out a pattern.” Davis’s favorite pieces she makes are her Oyster Shell Blossom and the Shell Tree. “I created from the broken pieces of whelks and conchs that are shaped like a curly-q,” she said. “Both of these

u o Y k n a h T

FOR YOUR SUPPORT DURING THIS YEAR!

Ladies • Men’s • Children A full service SaloN

SPECIALIZING IN COLOR Same Great Service, Brand New Location!

ea Give m oday! call t

Ginger Williams

You can find me at Coastal Roots Salon

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 52

801 N. Howe Street, Southport

are very time-consuming to make because all of the seashells used are ones that I found on the beach. These are my favorites partly because of the time spent with each piece and also because they are different from other pieces I’ve made. I take a long walk on the beach, look through shell piles, and watch for shells rolling up on the shore.”

Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1976

We strive to give every customer who walks into the store the best possible jewelry buying experience, and we thank you for your continued support! 602 N. Howe St., Southport • (910) 457-7714 JEWELRY REPAIR • WATCH REPAIR WE DO APPRAISALS Master Jeweler on site! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram reneesfinejewelry.com

LOCAL, FRESH, CREATIVE Come and treat yourself to beautiful food and hand crafted cocktails. It’s always a great day to celebrate at Southern.

OPEN FOR DINNER 5 NIGHTS TUES.- SAT. 4:30-9PM BY RESERVATION ONLY

for reservations and menus: southernagatheringplace.com 105 E BROWN ST. SOUTHPORT • 910-931-0786 SOUTHERNSOUTHPORT@GMAIL.COM @SOUTHERN_AGATHERINGPLACE

Happiest of Holidays from our Southern Family to Yours Join us for 2 special days Pop up Brunch December 10th • 11-2pm New Years Eve Dinner Dec 31 • 5-9pm

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 53

History

Civil War Photography Brunswick Civil War Round Table Meeting STORY CONTRIBUTED

n one of the most interesting and entertaining programs ever presented by the Brunswick Civil War Round Table, nationally renowned expert of Civil War photography Garry Adelman will take center stage for his dramatic presentation entitled, “Civil War Photography Extravaganza.” on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Everyone is welcome, and the visitor fee is $10, which can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues. this next meeting. He has lectured at Registration begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm.

The Civil War was brought to life through the lens of photography. It saw the real birth of photojournalism, technological innovations, and the first photos of dead American soldiers, bringing the realities of war into the homes of ordinary people. As summarized by Adelman, “photographs are a primary source that assist us in understanding the conflict.” More than 3,000 individual photographers made war-related images, creating a visual record of the conflict that is unparalleled in human history. Photographers visited camps, hospitals, prisons, battlefields, and cities, all providing a powerful and poignant glimpse into the realities of the Civil War and the impact it had on public opinion.

Photographers documented nearly every major theater of military operations, from the first pictures of Fort Sumter in April, 1861, to images of Richmond’s ruined cityscape in April, 1865. They captured the daily lives of soldiers, the aftermath of battles, and the devastating impact of the war on civilians. Despite the challenges, Civil War photographers had a profound impact on the American public. With all that has been written about the Civil War over the years, the phrase, “one picture is worth a thousand words,” clearly justifies the importance of Civil War photography.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

On Dec. 5, Garry Adelman will captivate his audience with a fascinating photographic presentation covering all manner of Civil War events, people and places, and be sure to bust the most pervasive Civil War photography myths, answer your questions, and more! The Round Table is honored to have Garry join

hundreds of locations across the country including the National Archives, the Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian. He has appeared on the BBC, C-Span, American Heroes Channel, and the HISTORY channel where he was a chief consultant and talking head on the Emmy Award-winning show “Gettysburg”

(2011), “Grant” (2020), and “Battles for America” (2022), among others. He is an award-winning author, co-author, or editor of 20 books and 50 Civil War articles, as well as working full time as Chief Historian for the American Battlefield Trust. In addition, he is the vice president of the Center for Civil War Photography, and has been a Licensed Battlefield Guide at Gettysburg for 27 years. For more information about the Tuesday, December 5 meeting, contact president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com, call him at 404-229-9425, or visit the website at Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com to learn more, become a member, renew your membership, and learn about member benefits. The group’s Facebook page also has additional information, news, and updates.

@uncorked by the sea

Wines, Wine Accessories, Gifts and Art for your Holiday Shopping!

Stop in for a taste or a glass of wine when you are in midtown Southport”

602A N. Howe Street • Southport, NC (910) 454-0633

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 54

Shop our on-line store www.uncorkedbythesea

Quantity discounts are available

A Smithville Christmas

BY M I C HAEL ROYA L

T’was the night before Christmas and all down the docks The Skippers were checking and doubling their knots When all was secure and their boats put to bed They were ready for family, their boots soon to shed The weather was nice with just a slight chill And all was at peace in the town of Smithville But during the night as Old Baldy did scan An object was spotted in the light as it ran It seemed so impossible as they came into view But there in the channel eight tiny tugs cruised They motored and hummed with their engines full steam As they pulled a big barge with toys and dreams The buoys all parted and blinked as they passed Some red and some green, as they gave a bright flash They arched around Jaybird and pointed toward land And began to make noise like a full brass band The people were all sleeping in Smithville that night And awoke to the horns now blasting delight The sound was familiar as a carol was played It was merry, it was soothing, as they listened and swayed There! a brightly lit cedar, a legend of lore Like a beacon it guided them straight to the shore They sailed to the pier at the foot of old Howe Where a Jolly little man stood straight on the bow His face was a circle of smoke from his pipe And it glowed with the spray from a rough sea swipe The townspeople gathered at the river to gaze As the little Jolly Pilot eased the barge into place He began calling out to his crew on the barge Commanding such order, they know who’s in charge Gifts were given to one and to all For the children of Smithville, some big and some small A present each got until there were none To his crew he exclaimed “that’s a job well done” With the help of town folk they cast off with a cheer And he piloted the barge back down the Cape Fear With his task now completed and smiles all around He sailed the barge out and straight for the sound We heard the pilot yell as they went out of sight “Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night”

The Night Before Christmas In Oak Island

BYKELLY FRITZ & RYAN GORDON T’was the night before Christmas and all down the docks The Skippers were checking and doubling their knots When all was secure and their boats put to bed They were ready for family, their boots soon to shed The weather was nice with just a slight chill And all was at peace in the town of Smithville But during the night as Old Baldy did scan An object was spotted in the light as it ran It seemed so impossible as they came into view But there in the channel eight tiny tugs cruised They motored and hummed with their engines full steam As they pulled a big barge with toys and dreams The buoys all parted and blinked as they passed Some red and some green, as they gave a bright flash They arched around Jaybird and pointed toward land And began to make noise like a full brass band The people were all sleeping in Smithville that night And awoke to the horns now blasting delight The sound was familiar as a carol was played It was merry, it was soothing, as they listened and swayed There! a brightly lit cedar, a legend of lore Like a beacon it guided them straight to the shore They sailed to the pier at the foot of old Howe Where a Jolly little man stood straight on the bow His face was a circle of smoke from his pipe And it glowed with the spray from a rough sea swipe The townspeople gathered at the river to gaze As the little Jolly Pilot eased the barge into place He began calling out to his crew on the barge Commanding such order, they know who’s in charge Gifts were given to one and to all For the children of Smithville, some big and some small A present each got until there were none To his crew he exclaimed “that’s a job well done” With the help of town folk they cast off with a cheer And he piloted the barge back down the Cape Fear With his task now completed and smiles all around He sailed the barge out and straight for the sound We heard the pilot yell as they went out of sight “Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night”

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 55

CALENDAR

December

We’ve included events here that were scheduled at press time, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change.

DEC 1

Tree Lighting — Southport

Join your friends and neighbors for the annual tree lighting at the Whittler’s Bench, at the base of Howe Street. There will be a reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” and the Trinity United Methodist Church Children’s Choir will lead singing of traditional Christmas music. The festivities start at 6 pm.

DEC 1

Tree Lighting — Oak Island

Music, winter treats and beverages, a mailing station for letters to Santa, live music, and the official lighting of the Town’s Christmas tree. The festivities begin at 5 pm, and the tree lighting is at 6 pm at the amphitheater, all in the Middleton Park fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive.

DEC 1-3 AND 8-10

Christmas at The Amuzu 2023

Local performers come together with a live band to present favorite secular selections of the season including “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “Christmas, Baby Please Come Home,” “All I Want for Christmas is You,” “Someday at Christmas,” and “Sleigh Ride.” The musicians will also perform beloved sacred pieces such as “O Holy Night,” “Panis Angelicus,” “Noel,” “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day,” “Little Drummer Boy,” and more. Showtimes are 7:30 pm for the Friday and Saturday dates, and 3 pm on Sundays. Tickets are $20 and are available at Ricky Evans Gallery in Southport and Color Me Carolina in Oak Island.

DEC 2-3

Sea Notes Christmas Concert

The group performs “A Quartet for Christmas,” with four conductors sharing the baton. The concerts are at 3 pm both days at Odell Williamson Auditorium on the campus of Brunswick Community College, 50 College Road, Bolivia. Admission is free, but tickets are required to ensure seating. (See story in

this issue for ticket availability details.)

DEC 2

Breakfast with Santa at Oak Island

Santa and his friends take time out of the busy holiday season to enjoy breakfast with area children. The event includes a buffet breakfast, photo opportunities, and holiday crafts, and will be held from 8 to 10 am at the Community Resource Center, 102 SE 47th St. (on the side of Middleton Park). Registration required; visit http://www.oakislandnc. gov/RecDesk.

DEC 2

Pancakes with Santa at Boiling Spring Lakes Tickets include pancakes, sausage, bacon, OJ, coffee and sweet tea, and spending time with a special guest in Santa’s Workshop. Kids will get to make a holiday craft and have their picture taken with Santa. Buy your ticket in November to receive an early bird discount. Proceeds will benefit the city’s Senior Sunshine Fund, which assists senior adults with programs and trips. For more information contact Sara at 910363-0276 or sgoodwin@cityofbsl.org

DEC 2

Christmas By the Sea Parade — Oak Island Community floats, plenty of festive Christmas outfits and costumes, fire trucks, dance companies, the South Brunswick High School Marching Band, pageant winners, and so much more. This a great community event, with plenty of viewing spots along the parade route. The parade steps off at 2 pm at SE 46th Street and Oak Island Drive and wraps up near McGlamery Street.

DEC 2

Winterfest Tea — Southport

The Sisters of Southport and the City sponsor this event, 1 pm at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. Tickets are $45 and are available at Ricky Evans Gallery and the Ft. Johnston Visitors Center and Museum.

DEC 3

Holiday Market — Oak Island

artwork. There will be live music, and nothing beats shopping with an ocean view. The market is 10 am to 2 pm on the Middleton Park fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive.

DEC 3

Pet Pictures with Santa

Santa will pose with your furry friends from 2 to 4 pm at Keziah Park, 113 W. Moore St. in Southport. There will be pet-friendly activities and treats; donations will be accepted to cover the cost of photo.

DEC 4

Shop-With-A-Cop Concert — Southport The Back Porch Rockers will perform, 6-8 pm in Franklin Square Park, 103 E. West St., to support the Southport Police Department’s Shop-With-A-Cop program.

DEC 5

Candy Cane Garden Party — Keziah Park Stroll through Southport’s Candy Cane Lane, with dozens of candy canes decorated by individuals and groups. The event is hosted by the Southport Garden Club and is from 6 to 8 pm at the park, 119 W. Moore St.

DEC 5

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

This month’s theme is “Civil War Photography Extravaganza.” Garry Adelman is a nationally renowned expert of Civil War photography, and will discuss the origins of photojournalism. 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 but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues.

DEC 5

Santa Paws — Oak Island

Even our pets want a meet and greet with Santa! All pets are welcome, though pet owners are responsible for their pets’ behavior. Get pictures of your pet with Santa at the Middleton Park Fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive, 4-6 pm.

This annual event is the day after the parade, and features all kinds of vendors and artisans with handmade goods and

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 56

DEC 6

Snow Many Crafts — Oak Island

Children 12 years and younger can make holiday and winter crafts at the Ocean Education Center, 4700 E. Oak Island Drive, from 5-6 pm. The cost is $5 for residents, $7 for non-residents.

DEC 7

Polar Express — Southport

Take a trip to the North Pole with a viewing of “Polar Express,” 6 pm-ish on the Garrison lawn in Southport (203 E. Bay St.). Take chairs and blankets and the whole family!

DEC 7

Oak Island Holiday Olympics

Let the Reindeer Games begin! Compete as a family, or with your favorite social circle. Teams work together to complete a series of challenges as they compete to win much coveted golden Santa hats! Team have a minimum of four members with at least one member under the age of 18. The games will be held at the Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive. Call 910-278-5518 for more details.

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!

DEC 8

Wilmington Big Band — Leland Cultural Arts Center The Wilmington Big Band comes across the river to perform in Leland, 7-9 pm at LCAC, 1212 Magnolia Village Way. Tickets are $15.

DEC 8

A Light in the Darkest Night — Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson Stroll among the ruins of St. Philip’s church, decorated with holiday greenery and candlelight. There is no fee to attend, but the gift shop will b open for holiday shopping. The evening events are scheduled for 4-7 pm at the site, 8884 St. Philip’s RD SE, off N.C. 133 in Winnabow.

DEC 8

Light Up the Night Christmas Parade — Southport The Southport Fire Department hosts the parade, and children who want to ride along should be at the fire station by 5:30 pm. The parade gets started at 6:30 pm and the route goes to Waterfront Park and Howe Street back to the station. After the parade, children can also meet with Santa at the station.

DEC 8

Historic Holidays — Maritime Museum Get a taste of history and the holidays when you join us for Historic Holidays. Staff and volunteers will be dressed out in period attire, and historic activities and take-home crafts will be available. This drop-in event is free and appropriate for all ages; noon to 4 pm at the Museum, 204 E. Moore St., Southport.

DEC 9

Winterfest Events — Southport

Winterfest is in full swing today, with live entertainment on the stage in Franklins Square Park from 11 am to 5 pm. The crafts fair is also in the Park, from 9 am to 4 pm. The Southport Historical Society hosts the annual Tour of Homes, noon to 5 pm; tickets are $25, and are available from the Society. There’s a toy and train show at the Indian Trail Meeting Hall, noon to 5 pm, with presentations at 1 and 3 pm.

Children can stop by Santa’s Workshop from 10-11 am, 209 Atlantic Avenue, next to the Southport City gym. The day’ events culminate with the annual Southport Flotilla, 6m along Southport’s waterfront. See our story with all the Winterfest events in this month’s issue.

DEC 9

Gingerbread House Contest

Beach Haven Designs is hosting a gingerbread house contest, and everyone can vote for their favorite! Voting begins at 10 am at the store, 414 N. Howe St. in Southport. The winner will be announced at 5 pm, and the winning house will be donated to a nursing home.

DEC 9

Christmas Parade — Bolivia

This parade starts at the Government Complex, travels along Old Ocean Highway, and ends at the Bolivia Volunteer Fire Department’s new station for an open house (3848 Old Ocean Highway). The parade starts at 11 am.

Winnabow.

DEC 10

Brunswick Bands Concert — Ft. Caswell Continue your holiday merry-making by joining local musicians for a fun afternoon of festive music featuring the Big Band, Wind Ensemble, Brass Choir and Saxophone Quartet. Holiday attire and spirit are welcome as the bands help celebrate the holiday season with our community! The concert is at 3 pm at Hatch Auditorium at Ft. Caswell, (the east end of Caswell Beach).

DEC 11

Christmas Dinner Traditions Charles Dickens - Harper Library

from

Charles Dickens influenced Christmas menus as we know them today through his popular novel, “A Christmas Carol.” His book even inspired early American cookbook writers on what to prepare for dinner in the 1840s and 50s. His novel helped to make Christmas seem more family friendly, and the food discussed in the novel are still considered

classic Christmas fare. Recipes will be included with this talk, presented by Desiree Bridge; some tasty mincemeat pies and warm wassail will be provided! The event is at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St.

DEC 12

Holiday Bingo — Oak Island

The whole family can play this holiday-themed game at the Community Resource Center, 102 SE 47th St. Games are held 5-7 pm, and the cost is $5 for residents and $7 for non-residents.

DEC 16

Oak Island Flotilla

DEC 9

Build Your Own Gingerbread House

Families can use gingerbread kits full of all the parts and decorations to make a tasty Gingerbread house. Pre-registration is required, and the event will be at Oak Island Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive. The cost is $12 for residents; visit http://www.oakislandnc.gov/ RecDesk or call 910-278-5518 for more information.

Christmas Ornaments $12 each • Holiday Cards $2.75/each or $20/ set of 10

DEC 10

An 18th-Century Christmas Brunswick Town Visitors can explore the Brunswick Town/Ft. Anderson State Historic Site to see how the American colonists celebrated Christmas, 1-5:30 pm. During the program, enjoy 18th-century inspired refreshments in the visitor center, participate in traditional games, or try your hand at Moravian paper stars and other 18th-century crafts. An authentic period candlelit service in the ruins of St. Philips Anglican Church begins at 5 pm and will conclude by 5:30 pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the gate the day of the event or in advance online at https://friends-of-brunswick-townfort-anderson.square.site/. The site is at 8884 St. Philip’s RD SE, off N.C. 133 in

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

12 Month Wall Calendar $20/each

To order visit: facebook.com/katiedphoto

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 57

CALENDAR

JAN 2, 2024

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

“Civil War, Uninterrupted: Jefferson Davis, George Washington Rains, and Confederate Gunpowder Strategy.” George Rains was instrumental in providing Jefferson Davis’s army with gunpowder. This enabled the South to achieve early success at the Battle of Bull Run in 1861, building momentum and confidence in the South’s war effort. It was referred to as the “Confederate gunpowder strategy,” a critical component of their war effort. Guest speaker: Ted Savas is an award-winning author, college professor, attorney, and publisher of a company specializing in military and general history subjects. 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 but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues.

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 1-3 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. Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St, Southport: The Lifelong Learners program meets at Harper Library on Wednesdays, 10 am. 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. Visit www.ncmaritimemu-

seum.com to register for special programs. Sea-sons Snow Craft Bags are available Dec 10 to 31 or until sold out. These virtual programs can be done from anywhere with something to cut with, something to attach, and decorating items. Bags come with supplies for four crafts and instructions on how to access video instructions and recorded story time. The kits are appropriate for ages 5 to 12 and adaptable to all abilities. Kits are $7 from the museum or $12 by mail. For more information go to ncmaritimemuseumsouthport.com/events. . Bingo at the Elks Lodge

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

FRANKLIN SQUARE ART GALLERY The Gallery will host a Summer Regional Art Show, a juried exhibition, through July 23; the Gallery is open 10 am to 5 pm Monday through Saturday and can be found at 130 E. West St., next to Franklin Square Park. Jan 6, 2024 — Hollywood Nights TOct 28 — The Cruise Brothers Band

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road, Belville Thursdays 2-5 pm, Fridays 11 am - 5 pm; Saturdays 10 am - 5 pm and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm. Fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River.

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site 8884 St. Philip’s Rd. SE, Winnabow

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

Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach The

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Museum

open

Thursday

through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, and the second Tuesday from 5 to 7 pm for Sandbar Lectures.

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. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule, including special holiday shows.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Odell Williamson Auditorium at Brunswick Community College 150 College Road NW, Bolivia

Nov 3 — Who’s Bad - The Ultimate Michael Jackson Tribute Dec 15 — John Denver - A Rocky Mountain Christmas Jan 6, 2024 — Hollywood Nights - The Bob Seger Experience Jan 20 — Simply Queen

Bald Head Coffee & Tea House

3481 George II Hwy SE (N.C. 87), Boiling Spring Lakes Dec 2 — Santa and Mrs. Claus stop in for a quick energy boost during the busy holiday season; the famous couple will make an appearance from noon to 2 pm.

THE PUB OF SOUTHPORT

1513 N. Howe St., Unit 10, Southport Dec 8 — Double Cherry Pie

Dec 13 — Gingerbread House decorating with Nonnie’s Baking Co.; tickets are $25 and all supplies are provided

Tiki Tavern

104 E. 8th St., Southport

Dec 9 — Deep Creek Soul

WINE, BEER AND COFFEE

American Fish Co 150 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport

Gorgeous views at this waterfront bar, live music, and great conversations.

Haven 307 N. Howe St., Southport

This downtown spot features “bites, beer, gelato, wine” with space for live music too.

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 58

Southport Coffee Co. & Kitchen 130 E. Moore Street, Southport

Coffee, beer and good food, and an outside courtyard and live music too.

SILVER COAST WINERY ROOM 105 N. Howe St., Southport

TASTING

Brunswick County’s first and only winery and original Craft Beer Bar. Check Facebook for specials, tasting events, and snack tray offerings.

Southport Suzie’s 4956 Long Beach Road (Big Lots shopping center) Frozen yogurt with a toppings bar, desserts, wine and craft beer, charcuterie, and wine tastings. Mondays are Speakeasy night (featuring various speakers), Wednesdays feature wine tastings, trivia and bingo are on Thursdays and live music is on Sundays.

Southport Tap & Cellar 827 N. Howe St., Southport

Offering craft beers brought in from across the State. Check Facebook for food truck appearances and trivia nights.

The Mullet Bar 112 Yacht Basin Drive

Open during tourist season, with a great view of the boats coming and going.

THE WINE RACK 102 W. Brown St., Southport.

The shop offers wines, cigars, coffees and accessories and a cozy patio area to relax with a glass of wine and enjoy live music.

THE PUB OF SOUTHPORT 1513 N. Howe St., Unit 10, Southport Check the Pub’s Facebook page for drink specials and food truck appearances. Sports programming on eight TVs and live music too! Bar swag bingo on Tuesday nights.

TIKI TAVERN 104 E. 8th St., Southport

Seating available outdoors, with games, trivia, music and open mic nights; check Facebook for details.

UNCORKED BY THE SEA WINE SHOP & GALLERY 602 N. Howe St. Southport

Shop for a wide variety of wines and craft beers, call 910-454-0633, or shop

online at www.uncorkedbythesea.com. Collector wines, crystal stemware and other great gift items also available.

Crossroads Gathering Place 128 Country Club Drive, Oak Island

Enjoy coffee, mimosas and other tasty beverages and treats on the huge waterway porch. Listen to music, shop at one of the many vendors or just relax in a rocking chair.

GRAPE & ALE 8521 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Stocked with your old favorites and new wines to try. Check www.thegrapeandale.com, or find them on Facebook for specials and wine tastings.

The Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille 601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island

Good food, a great ocean view with gorgeous sunsets. Check Facebook for music and specials.

Pier.

Second Wind Sports Bar 8620 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Live music, jam night, dancing and great drinks. Open Mic night on Tuesdays.

Bald Head Coffee & Tea House 3481 George II Highway SE (N.C. 8), Boiling Spring Lakes Fresh roast coffee and tea in delicious flavors, plus coffee and tea accessories for purchase. Live music and outdoor seating available too!

The Office Coffee and Wine Bar 3280 George II Highway (NC 87), Boiling Spring Lakes Sit a spell with friends and enjoy a fancy coffee drink, good food, a plain cup of joe or a glass of wine, and grab a bottle for later.

#KEEPBRUSHING

SEAHORSE EATS & DRINKS AT OCEAN CREST PIER 1409 E. Beach Drive, Oak Island Sip your favorite drink and watch the beautiful sunsets at the Ocean Crest

WeSeeSmiles.com for New Patient Offers Get the coastal lifestyle delivered directly to your home. Visit https://cape-fear-box.square.site to order a quarterly subscription Cape Fear Box.

GENERAL l PREVENTIVE l SEDATION

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

(910) 444-2369 Southport Supply Rd, Bolivia

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 59

MARKETPLACE

and picnic gathering area on the ICW. Listed at $649,000. Call Myles Williams, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 457-7676.

4157 CAMBRIDGE COVE CIRCLE SE, UNIT 2, SOUTHPORT. 3 BR, 3 BA, 2,064 SF. Relax and enjoy this stylish townhome near the G.V. Barbee Bridge while paying no city taxes! This gorgeous 2-story property has well-maintained hardwood floors and plantation shutters and boasts access to the pool, tennis, marina, restaurants, and the Oak Island Par 3 Golf Course nearby. Take a look at this Cambridge Crossings property today! Currently listed at $424,500 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Glenn Paul McVicker at 336-804-0131 for details.

3030 MARSH WINDS CIRCLE, UNIT 704, SOUTHPORT 2 BR, 2 BA, 1,083 SF. Furnished Condo + Lockout Apartment + Club Membership! What more do you need out of your St James property? Enjoy the private Marsh Winds pool just outside your front door, or take a short walk to the Members Clubhouse to take advantage of the amenities there. Featuring the highly sought-after 2nd bedroom lockout with a private entrance, Unit 704 exudes style, luxury, and investment potential. Schedule your private viewing now! Currently listed at $369,500 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Jonathan McLaughlin at 910-269-8200 for details.

6158 RIVER SOUND CIRCLE, SOUTHPORT. 3 BR, 2 BA, 2,786 SF. Enjoy low country living at its finest in one of Southport’s most sought-after riverfront communities. Offering convenient access to downtown shopping and restaurants, 6158 River Sound Circle provides 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, an office area, formal dining area, a large bonus room and a 2-car garage with large fenced back yard and covered, screened back porch. Schedule your private viewing of this gem today! Listed at $699,900 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Jonathan McLaughlin at 910-269-8200 for more information.

219 SAND DOLLAR LANE, SOUTHPORT. 3 BR, 2 BA, 2,074 SF. Located on a corner lot in The Hammocks of Southport, this well-appointed home is a MUSTSEE! Boasting an outstanding layout with exceptional features and high-quality construction, you’ll notice the attention to detail throughout. Come view this property where downtown, the ferry, restaurants, waterfront, markets and shopping are only a short distance away! Listed at $679,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call John Dosher at 910-4480536 for more information or to schedule your viewing.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

4414 SOUTHERN PINE DRIVE SE, SOUTHPORT. 2 BR, 2 BA, 1,188 SF. Fantastic opportunity to own a 2 bedroom in the private community of the Villages of Mariners Point. Convenient to the beaches of Oak Island and downtown Southport, this lovely home features an open-concept living area with a back patio and privacy fenced yard. Seller is now offering a $5,000 credit for painting or towards closing costs so don’t miss your opportunity to view this home while it lasts! Currently listed at $269,900 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Rodney Axsom at 910-523-0568 for details.

STYRONS LANDING. Wake up every morning to panoramic Marsh Front views! New Construction PRE SALE only 2 1/2 miles from the Holden Beach bridge. Introducing The Loggerhead, a classic take on the 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home featuring clean lines and enhanced finishes designed to capture the panoramic marsh and water views of Holden Beach. To Be Built in the tranquil Intracoastal Waterway community of Styron’s Landing that features an owners private pier

3030 MARSH WINDS CIRCLE, UNIT 1102 - ST. JAMES. 2 bed | 2 bath | $329,000. FIRST FLOOR, FULLY FURNISHED condo located in the vibrant private community of St. James Plantation! The main unit offers one bedroom and bathroom with a lockout unit with a one bedroom/ bathroom setup as well. Open the connecting doors to occupy both spaces or lock them and use either side as a rental investment like the current owner. Call Sally Stidham, Southport Realty,Inc., for more information, (910) 540-8320.

46 FOREST OAKS DRIVE - THE RIDGE AT FOREST OAKS. 3 bed | 2 bath | $328,000. This wonderful end unit townhome offers one-level living, a split floor plan, single car garage and is located in the popular neighborhood of The Ridge at Forest Oaks. Features include a large great room with vaulted ceiling, double sided fireplace, sunroom, spacious kitchen and private patio for grilling and outdoor living. Location offers easy access to downtown historic Southport where you will find wonderful restaurants, boutiques, specialty shops, art

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 60

galleries, museums, and the beautiful Cape Fear River AND area beaches are just a short distance away. HOA handles all of the exterior and lawn maintenance. Call Katherine Hufham, Southport Realty,Inc., for more information, (910) 470-4045.

2303 W. SEA PALM COURT - SEA VIEW. 3 bed | 2 bath | $397,500. The Sea View Community, located 3 miles from the Holden Beach bridge & public boat ramp, includes a community pool, a community dock, & pier on the Intracoastal Waterway. The interior of this home has fresh paint, new light fixtures. new quartz kitchen countertops & new LVP floors in the kitchen. Trendy new shiplap over the fireplace adds gorgeous dimension to the family room with a floating mantel shelf & a gas fireplace. The master bath has been renovated with new granite countertops, a vintage-looking cast iron tub, shiplap, new LVP floors and a tiled walk-in shower. Additional features include an outdoor shower, new water heater, new ceiling fans, a new vanity and new LVP flooring in the guest bath. Schedule a private showing today! Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty,Inc., for more information, (910) 620-8962.

CLASSIFIED ADS Up To 50 Words Only $15 Per Month

PHOTO ADS

Up To 50 Words Only $20 Per Month Email Jeffrey Stites jeff@southportmag.com To Place Your Ad Today

DINING GUIDE

Find Something Sure To Please Everyone Check out the Dining Guide and what delicious food the local area has to offer! 8004 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-933-4103 www.shaggerjacksoki.com With over 50 beer selections, Shagger Jacks offers an assortment of dishes from steamers to ribs and sweet curry chicken to tacos.

SEAFOOD SPECIALTY

M FISHY FISHY CAFE

106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 910-457-1881 www.fishyfishycafe.com A sophisticated take on the dockside seafood café, Fishy Fishy serves up plates like Buffalo shrimp, Cajun grouper bites, and Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.

SOUTHERN, A GATHERING PLACE 105 E. Brown St, Southport 910-931-0786 Elevated Southern Cuisine

M FRYING PAN

SALT 64

319 West Bay St., Southport 910-363-4382 Featuring homemade sweet potato biscuits and fried seafood, as well as other delicacies such as pan seared grouper.

6404 E Oak Island Dr, Oak ISland 910-933-1019 Serving coastal cuisine in an upscale atmosphere

SWAIN’S CUT SEAFOOD

M ISLAND WAY RESTAURANT

1407 E. Beach Dr., Oak Island 910-278-7770 www.islandwayres.com Offering fine steaks, from filet mignon to flat iron, and fresh seafood, from lobster to crab cakes, with attentive service.

KOKO CABANA

705 Ocean Drive, Oak Island (910) 933-6222 Open Tues - Sun. Seafood Specialties, Steaks, Sandwiches, Salads

MOJO’S ON THE HARBOR

16 Marina Way, Bald Head Island 910-457-7217 www.mojoontheharbor.com Featuring Southern classics :fried pickles, shellfish steam pots to global dishes like Italian meat antipasto and Mediterraneans shrimp and grits.

MOORE STREET OYSTER BAR

110 E. Moore Street, Southport (910) 363-5115 Moore Street Oyster Bar is an oyster pub rooted in the traditions of coastal Southern cooking, epitomized by the seaside town of Southport.

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

www.provisioncompany.com

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

RUSTY HOOKS DOCKSIDE GRILL

4907 Fish Factory Rd Southport, (910) 477-6616 www.rustyhooksdockside.com Fun dining featuring fresh local seafood and generational recipes, guaranteed to leave a lasting smile on your face. Come join our small piece of paradise along the coast of Carolina; our team looks forward to greeting you. We welcome boaters to pull up to our docks or con-

Pizza and a sandwich at Dry Street Pub & Pizza

tact the Marina Dockmaster on Channel 16, and all others to come down Fish Factory Road and join us for a relaxing meal with a gorgeous view!

SWAIN SEAFOOD SHACK

5119 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, Phone: (910) 448-5056 Good food for good people. Locally caught seafood, homemade soups and salad bar.

MODERN AMERICAN BACK TO SHUCKERS

6220 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-4944 Casual dining in a tropical setting, with Caribbean inspired seafood as well as steaks, chicken, pork and salads. (Opening in May)

EDGEWATER 122

122 Yacht Basin Dr. Southport, (910) 677-6130 Locally Sourced, Hand Crafted Food and Drink served waterfront at the Old Yacht Basin.

OLIVER’S ON THE CAPE FEAR

101 West Bay Street, Southport 910-477-9299 oliversonthecapefear.com Fine dining on the Cape Fear—where exquisite southern cuisine meets the salubrious dishes. We also offer great burgers, steaks, and other southern favorites.

M MR. P’S BISTRO

309 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-0801 www.mrpsbistro.com Fine low-country cuisine, from crab-stuffed fish du jour to crab cakes and prime rib.

SHAGGER JACKS

8317 E. Oak Island Dr, (910) 933-6300 Serving fresh, local seafood and delicious and creative baked treats.

TRANQUIL HARBOR

5908 E. Oak Island Drive Oak Island Call (910) 250-12944 Casual family restaurant with a variety of dishes, seafood and daily specials.

WINE & BEER GRAPE AND ALE

8521 E. Oak Island Dr. Oak Island, 910-933-4384 Quaint and eclectic store offering a large selection of wines, beers, and spirits. Perfect for either relaxation or for on the go! Tastings on Fridays 5-8pm,

SILVER COAST WINERY

105 S. Howe St. Southport, 910-777-5151 Brunswick County’s first and only winery and original Craft Beer Bar. Craft Beer and Wine tastings all day, every day! Check out our Facebook page for updated events, specialty beer tastings, and live music.

SOUTHPORT TAP & CELLAR

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

THE WINE RACK

102 W. Brown St. Southport, 910-457-5147 Offering a selection of wine, cigars, coffees, and accessories, this quaint shop is perfect for a night out. Great service and over 600 wines to choose from.

UNCORKED BY THE SEA 602 N. Howe St. Southport,

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

910-454-0633 Offering a wide variety of fine wines and craft beers for in-store shopping, curbside pick-up and shopping on-line. Delivering locally. Enjoy sipping wine in the shop while admiring local art or in the courtyard. Wines are available to taste every day. Special orders welcome

BARBECUE M SOUTHPORT SMOKE HOUSE

1102 N. Howe St., Southport 910-363-5035 www.southportsmokehouse.com Real wood smoked BBQ and brisket, great side items, and a great family environment.

M BAR-B-QUE HOUSE

5002 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-201-1001 www.bestbbqonthebeach.com Hormel ribs are slow d in house and meats are offered with a variety of sauces, from Eastern NC vinegar to Lexington-style red.

CAFES, DELIS & GRILLS 49th STREET BAR AND GRILL

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

BLUE COW GRILLE

108 Moore Street, Southport 910-363-4402 Serving specialty Burgers,.sanwiches and seafood. Lunch and Dinner

BOB’S DOGS

8903 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-3456 • www.bobsdogsoki.com With custom hot dogs featuring an array of ingredients to homestyle sandwiches like chicken salad and burgers.

THE BREAK

5700 E. Oak Island Drive (910) 933-4734 Breakfast and lunch with an island flair

CAROLINA COASTAL CAFE

607 N. Howe Street, Southport (910) 363-4350 Full service breakfast and lunch cafe withfull coffee bar and baked goods

CHASER’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL

8520 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-1500 Enjoy BBQ sandwiches, wings, fish ‘n’ chips and more at this sports grill.

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 61

DINING GUIDE ERIC’S GRILLE

1671 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-9024 Offers old fashioned, hand patted hamburgers, plus bbq, hot dogs, chili cheese fries and breakfast sandwiches and platters.

FAT ANDY’S BURGERS

M SOUTHPORT COFFEE CO. AND KITCHEN

130 E. Moore St., Southport, 910-363-4203 Open for breakfast and lunch, specializing in organic and fairtrade coffee as well as gourmet sandwiches crafted with Boar’s Head deli meats.

OAK ISLAND DELI AND PUB

3196 George II Hwy,Boiling Spring Lakes 910-845-7700 Handmade burgers using 100% ground chuck, plus freshly cut French fries.

5422 E. Oak Island Dr., 910-278-4005 Offering hamburgers, sub sandwiches, salads, wraps, seafood and daily drink specials.

FIXIN’S OKI

5705 E. Oak Island Dr. 910-278-9040 From BLT’s with avocado to Cajun and Reuben sandwiches, & other quality sandwiches.

8300 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island (910) 933-1009 Southern inspired brunch menu served thoughout the day

JERSEY MIKES

5130 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport 910-477-6261 Subs and sandwiches, fresh salads.

CAFE KOA

302 N Howe St, Southport, 910-363-4206 Gourmet Sandwich Shop & Market With Yummy Goods & Gifts! Soups, Salads & Sandwiches Served Daily!

LITTLE BIT’S GRILL

5902 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island 910-278-6430 A classic burger joint, onion rings and other sides. Breakfast is served, pancakes and bacon.

LAZY TURTLE BAR & GRILL

601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island, 910-278-7725 Oceanfront dining and entertainment that is easy on the wallet and hard to forget. Tiki bar, arcade with two pool tables and plenty of seating to host your work, friend or family fun!

LOCAL’S FAMILY DINER

832 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-0444 www.localsfamilydiner.com With a warm and friendly atmosphere, Local’s Family Diner serves breakfast all day long and a seafood and entrée menu for lunch and dinner.

LOCO JO’S

602 N. Howe St., #E Fresh, creative asian and American specialties with wine, beer and a now a fully stocked bar

LONERIDER AT OAK ISLAND

57th Place west, Oak Island Lonerider Brew-Stillery outlaws bring award winning brews/bourbons and atmosphere to Oak Island. Enjoy a beer or bourbon with the outlaws, listen to live music, play outdoor games, and raise a toast to craft beer and spirits community. Enjoy delicious food with amazing views of the intercoastal. Limited release, and cool specialty beers/spirits will be available at the Hideout

MOORE DOGS AND MORE 4346 Long Beach Rd, Southport Hot Dogs, BBQ, and MORE!

CHINESE

JAPANESE

ASIAN TASTE

TENGU JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 3, 910-457-0988 asiantastesouthportnc.com Takeout traditional Chinese food, with staples such as lo mein, sesame chicken, and General Tso’s.

SOUTHPORT GOURMET AND SHI BAR

SU-

4956 Long Beach Rd. SE, 457-9398 Sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, hibachi, tempura and udon noodles all available.

MEXICAN DELPHINA CANTINA

OAK ISLAND SUBS AND SALADS

1643 N. Howe St, Southport (910) 477-9045 Serving a varietry of home-cokked Asian specialties and featuring a full sushi bar.

10 Marina Wynd, Bald Head Island 910-457-1222 delphinacantina.webs.com Mexican cuisine with Spanish and Cuban flare, such as Churrasco Cubano and Pescado Especial—both with plantains.

OASIS BAR AND GRILL

TASTE OF CHINA

KAI JOE’S

INTERNATIONAL

SAN FELIPE

8039 River Rd. SE, Southport 910-454-4004 Shrimp in every style, plus sandwiches; try entrées such as scampi and filet mignon.

THE OFFICE COFFEE & WINE BAR

3280 George II HWY (BSL) Southport NC 910-351-8093 www.theofficecoffeeandwinebar. com We serve Roast Magazine’s 2016 Roaster of the year, Espresso, Coffee Drinks(Hot, Frozen, Iced) Smoothies, Variety of Red/White Wines & Craft Beer. Also Pastries, Trays, Breakfast and Lunch Wraps.

OLD BRIDGE DINER

132 Country Club Dr., Oak Island 910-250-1184 A casual diner featuring breakfast & lunch, from fluffy omelets to burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. Open 6am - 2pm

THE SAUCY SOUTHERNER

501 N Howe Street, Southport (910) 477-6065 Offering breakfast & lunch with a southern twist. Real Good Feel Good, Food.

SUNSET GRILL

5119 E. Oak Island Dr, 910-933-6137 Mediterranean Cuisine with a Lebanese influence

TROLLY STOP

111 S. Howe St., Southport 910-457-7017 www.trollystophotdogs.com A staple in NC, Trolly Stop is renowned across the nation for its one of a kind hot dogs.

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ

1671 N. Howe St. #1A, Southport 910-363-4908 www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com Bold, flavorful food and smoothies with a healthy appeal. Our items are made to order with fresh, simple, superior ingredients.

WILDLIFE RESTAURANT & GRILL

4381 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 910-457-9953 www.wildlifegrill.webs.com Serving a full range of items on our menu from breakfast to home cooked meals.

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

4956 Long Beach Rd., Southport, 457-1838 Serving Cantonese, Szechuan and Hunanstyle Chinese food.

M PORTS OF CALL

116 N. Howe St., Southport, 457-4544 www.portsofcallbistro.com Offering choices that are largely influenced by dishes from across the globe. Menu items and specials can whisk your palette from Casablanca to Barcelona, Santorini to Mumbai, and from Marseilles to Munich or Charleston. Finish with a fresh baked dessert in the romantic atmosphere.

ITALIAN M BELLA CUCINA

5177 SouthportSupply Rd., Southport 910-454-4540 www.belladiningnc.com Focusing on family Italian recipes, Bella Cucina serves up everything from fine and fresh local seafood to hand tossed, New York style pizzas. Aside from a decadent wine list, Bella Cucina also offers specialty martinis.

CASTUCCI’S AN ITALIAN JOINT 4332 Long Beach Rd, Southport 910-477-6755 Family Italian restaurant

D’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

2831 Midway Rd Ste 106 (910) 253-8151 Serving Itaiian entrees, pizza and sandwiches.

FALCONE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

5013 Southport Crossing Way, Southport 910) 363-8000 Serving home cooked Itailan specialties in a friendly atmosphere.

M JOSEPH’S ITALIAN BISTRO

5003 O’Quinn Blvd., Southport, 454-4440 www.josephsitalianbistro.com Armed with decades of experience and “secret” family recipes, Joseph’s Italian Bistro appeals with candlelit dining and fresh Italian continental cuisine.

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 62

4722 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island Phone: (910) 622-1509 Traditional Mexican dishes and specialties. 1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 1, Southport & 4961 Long Beach Rd. SE 910-454-0950 Serving authentic dishes, such as fajitas, enchiladas and chalupas, fresh salsa and margaritas; serves traditional Mexican dishes.

TACO & BURITTO SHACK 3261 Hwy 87, BSL 910-351-0179

DINING GUIDE SIDE STREAT TAKE OUT

524 N Howe St., Southport 910-363-4113 Tex-Mex style cuisines at a local take-out joint.

PIZZERIAS BAMBINI’S PIZZERIA

1513 N Howe St, Southport 477-9352 A New York Style Pizzeria featuring homemade pizza, pasta, desserts, etc. Also serving a selection of beer and wine.

BEACH ROAD PIZZA AND WINGS

4688 Long Beach Rd, Southport Pizzas, wings, fries, desserts

DRY STREET PUB AND PIZZA

101 E. Brown St., Southport 457-5994 www.drystreetpubandpizza.com Known for handmade, original pizzas—including Margherita, “very veggie,” and Greek. Also offers salads, soups and gourmet sandwiches.

FAMOUS SUBS AND PIZZA

1541 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-5143 Recognized regionally for outstanding gyros, calzones and pizzas.

MO’S WOOD FIRED KITCHEN

4956 Old Long Beach Road SE ,Southport Wood Fired Pizzas, Burgers, Salads & Wings

PIZZA SHACK

6212 E. Oak Island Dr., • 278-6781 Offering a variety of pies from classic favorites to Greek white and Hawaiian.

THE PEPPERONI GRILL

3156 George II Hwy, Boiling Spring Lakes 845-5151 • www.pepperonigrillnc.com Offering eat in, take out and delivery. As well, offering oven toasted subs and calzones.

PEPPERONI GRILL AT THE BEACH

4320 East Beach Drive • 250-1190 www.pepperonigrillnc.com Open 7 days a week year round. Offering eat in, take out as well as delivery.

Solar Brewing

8108 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Oak Island’s first and only brewery! Also featuring pizza, wings and even a giant pretzel!

DOMINO’S (SOUTHPORT)

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

DOMINO’S (OAK ISLAND)

(910) 363-5072 Asian delicasies for dine-in or take-out

ICE CREAM

THAI AND VINE

106 SE 58th Street (910) 933-1025 Southeast Asian specialties

CHUCK’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM 5021 Southport Crossing Way, Southport (910) 363-0208 Featuring delicious home made ice cream.

BAKERIES/ COFFEE

BALD HEAD COFFEE & TEA HOUSE

3481 George II Hwy (Hwy 87), Boiling Spring Lakes 800-484-8399 Serving coffe and tea drinks along with breakfast sandwiches, croissanta and other goodies. Drive-thru available.

Crossroads Gathering Place 128 Country Club Drive

Enjoy wine, beer or coffee and sit a spell on the porches out back, with a view of the Intracoastal Waterway and Oak Island’s Barbee Bridge.

BURNEY’S BAKERY

808 N. Howe St., Southport 454-4222 Known for their light and flaky filled croissants with a sweet sugar glaze, plus more.

ISLAND JO COFFEE ‘N CAFE

7916 E. Oak Island Drive (910) 250-1677 Homemade bagels, breakfast sandwiches, quiche, specialty coffees and sandwiches.

5701 E. Oak Island Dr.,• 278-5371 Featuring the iconic Blizzards, waffle-bowl sundaes, and more frozen treats. *Call for other nearby locations.

FLAVA’S COFFEE AND ICE CREAM 310 W. Bay St., Southport • 457-5150 Ice Cream at the Yacht Basin

HAVEN

307 N. Howe St., Southport Bites, Beer, Gelato, Wine

LIL & JOHN’S SWEETREAT HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

6324 East Oak Island Drive. Family-owned and operated. Featuring 16 flavors of ultra-premium, homemade ice cream. We use only dairy from grass-fed North Carolina cows and never add artificial flavors or colors.

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E. Oak Island Drive Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right

201 N. Howe St., Southport, 477-9117 More than just ice cream, Spike’s offers great hot dogs as well.

THE SCOOP SHOP

4922 East Oak Island Dr, OKI 910-250-1321 The best ice cream on the beach! Plus made to order cake donuts and fresh hot donuts!

SOUTHPORT SUZIE’S

4956 Old Long Beach Rd. Suite 1, Southport 910-363-4188 Frozen Yogurt & Desserts; Wine & Beer, Outside seating

SUGAR DADDIES

5119 E. Oak Island Drive Ice Cream and Dip-n-Dots

TIKI PINEAPPLE WHIPS

4602 E. Beach Drive, Oak Island (910) 632-0598 Dole Whip pineapple frozen treats right at the beach!

TROPICAL TREATS

5811 E. Oak Island Drive Ice Cream, Italian Ice, Coffee, Ho,me Made Fudge

4022 Old Bridge Rd., Southport • 363-4841 We carry a large variety of gluten free/vegan baked goods, as well as homemade coffee cakes and muffins. Delicious and decadent specialty drinks: lattes, mochas, frapps, hot chocolate, Chai teas and more.

PORT CITY JAVA

113 N. Howe Street, Southport 454-0321 www.portcityjava.com We serve coffees, espresso drinks, fruit smoothies, milkshakes, fresh juices, breakfast and lunch sandwiches and wraps all day. Open year round. Complimentary WiFi. Comfortable inside and outside seating. Coffee catering available.

RUBY’S COFFEEHOUSE AND ERY

EAT-

At the Oak Island Pier, 705 Ocean Dr. Oak Island Serving bagels, croissants, sandwiches, hot dogs and coffee right at the pier.

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E Oak Island Drive Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

THAI

SIDE STREET BAKERY

1131 N. Atlantic Ave, Southport

M DAIRY QUEEN

SPIKE’S DAIRY BAR

JUMPIN’ JAVA OAK ISLAND

5003 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island (910) 278-9111 Delivery/carryout chain offering a wide range of pizza, plus chicken & other sides.

INDOCHINE EXPRESS

next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

lime pie, and carrot cake.

417-A N. Howe Street, Southport 363-4629 Locals suggest the cupcakes, lemon bars, key

Available at: THE PAINTED MERMAID Handcrafted Pottery

817 N Howe Street, Southport

w w w. B l u e E a r t h Wo r k s . c o m

SOUTHPORT, NC • BREVARD, NC • FLETCHER, NC • NORTHEAST, MD • BLUEEARTHWORKS.ETSY.COM

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 63

GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF PEACE OF MIND Experience the difference a trusted Realtor® makes.

DONNA FINDLAY

ROBERT CARROLL

donnafindlay@remax.net

robert@robertcarrollproperties.com

910.269.3049

SOUTHERN COAST

910.465.2717

R C

ROBERT CARROLL

PROPERTIES

WWW.ROBERTCARROLLPROPERTIES.COM 319 North Howe Street | Southport, NC 28461

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Southport Magazine 64