December 2012

www.southportmag.com

vol. one issue three Dec. 2012

Christmas

by the sea Festive events bring good cheer to our oceanside communities

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h w wit e i v r inte • An artist local Perry lie Char e pagn m a h ew •C for N s k c i p s Eve Year’

southport magazine / november 2012 / www.southportmag.com 1

vol. one / issue three

Bethany Turner offers her picks from this issue.

11-13 savor Discover the best eateries sure to please your sophisticated palate.

15 cheers The owner of The Grape and Ale shares her selection of fine bubblies just in time for New Year’s Eve.

16 wealth Greg Ochipa offers tips on establishing a healthy financial future.

18-19 homestyle We look inside the historical Robert Ruark Inn, which is featured in the Southport Christmas Tour of Homes.

20 marketplace Everything for sale from refrigerators to real estate.

21 spottings Send in photos of your friends, family and pets living life to the fullest in our coastal community.

26 crossword & coloring Try your hand at this month’s brain teaser, plus something for the kids.

27 occasions December is full of fun. Come see!

I

N TH S SSUE

christmas by the sea: Festive events fill the month of December

4-5 cover story

Read our list of holiday picks to kick off your Yuletide joy.

6 holiday food drive

Southport Magazine teams up with Matthew’s Ministry to feed children in Brunswick County.

pages 4 and 5

9 holiday concerts Vocal and instrumental talent will sparkle this season from the Sea Notes Choral Society and the Brunswick Concert Band.

10 savor Chef Christopher Wheeler of Ports of Call talks global inspiration and local innovation.

8 showcase Charlie Perry, boat yard manager, shares how he dove into a love for welding art.

Connect with us.

Scan the QR code on your smart phone and check out what’s going on at Southport Magazine throughout the month.

2 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com

our website

3 letter from the editor

Photos by Bethany Turner

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IN EVERY ISSUE:

I

n my household, we began lighting christmas candles

the day after Halloween, and I swooned over scents of balsam fir, cinnamon and peppermint. I’m not certain what it is about 2012, but this year I’ve been really welcoming to December 25th’s overzealous appearance—even if I hadn’t yet carved a turkey. (OK, so I was shocked to see Rudolph perched upon a couch in Costco this August.)

Nonetheless, it’s been uplifting to switch on the Christmas music in November—as if a massive, moss-covered boulder were plucked from my chest.

Even alone in my car, traversing NC 133, I’m helpless against a tender grin as I sing along to the tune of something festive. Classic crooners such as Bing Crosby, Johnny Mathis and Gene Autry float over the airwaves and through my dashboard with lighthearted, traditional carols.

I’m looking forward to free holiday concerts from both the Sea Notes Choral Society and the Brunswick Concert Band (page 9). Not only will these non-profit organizations offer up the fun, beloved standards of yesteryear, but they will also share angelic and breathtaking renditions of more canonical works. We can expect “Parcem Noel” from the concert band; it should prove to set the perfect holiday mood. Need more yuletide in your life? Flip to pages 4 and 5 for a multitude of celebrations across the area.

Those who are a bit too full of pumpkin pie and looking for more global flavors will enjoy our interview with Chef Christopher Wheeler of Ports of Call (page 10). He reveals a winter prix-fixe menu to tantalize those tired tastebuds. While you’re at it, plan a New Year’s Eve soirée with Candace Hobbs of Oak Island’s Grape and Ale—she shares nine delicious brands of bubbles to toast the official countdown (page 15).

This month we also sat down with one of the area’s more iconic figures: Charlie Perry (page 8). Not only is he the owner of American Fish Company, he’s also a skilled sculptor, using only the tools of his trade: metal and welds!

Most importantly, we urge you to read the story on Kristie Disbrow, founder of Matthew’s Ministry (page 6). She’s a loving mom who couldn’t stand to see any child go hungry, especially in her own hometown. In this season’s spirit of giving, learn how you can help Kristie and her non-profit feed the children of Brunswick County this winter.

Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!

editor Bethany Turner bethany@southportmag.com Bethany is a nearly lifelong resident of southeastern North Carolina, and she’s already picking out her future homesite in Southport. She, like any good coastal girl, enjoys spending time on the boat in the Intracoastal Waterway.

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editor

letter from the

Kris Beasley kris@southportmag.com Kris lives in Boiling Spring Lakes with her husband and daughter. She loves cooking, gardening, fishing and football. Southport has so much to offer—music, art, dining, and more—and Kris is thrilled to be able to compile it in one place: Southport Magazine.

Southport Magazine is created monthly by the publishers of encore magazine. We are always accepting submissions! Please e-mail potential editorial to: bethany@southportmag.com Please note: Opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of staff.

1496 Grace Rd. Boiling Spring Lakes, NC 28461 Phone: (910) 791-0688 Fax: (910) 791-9534

www.southportmag.com southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 3

currents have a holly, jolly christmas:

Festive events fill the month of December as Southport celebrates Christmas by the Sea and more Story by Bethany Turner

A

s the stockings are hung in our homes this month, the cities and towns in which we reside will be donned with their own holiday trimmings. Southport is renowned for its annual Christmas by the Sea Festival, which takes place in the first three weeks of December. In fact, Coastal Living magazine named the event’s holiday flotilla one of the top 10 boat parades in our nation. And why shouldn’t it be? The hometown feel of southeastern North Carolina during Christmas is like raising a toast with a glass of Champagne: festive, effervescent, and a little comforting, too.

Though not all are a part of the festival, we’ve compiled a list of holiday happenings in our area so that folks can enjoy this splendid season all month long. charles Dickens christmas Festival Fri., 11/30 - Sat., 12/1 • 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Historic Downtown Southport The streets of Southport will be transformed into the Victorian world of Dickens, as the Brunswick Arts Council celebrates the author’s 200th birthday. School children will be involved in dramatic performances; out-oftown Dickens dramatists and educators will perform; there will be singing groups of all types; plays, artists and specialty craftsmen; a gingerbread house, Christmas tree, wreath and costume contests. Admission: $10/adult, $5/ children 7-12, free/children 6 and under. Tickets can be purchased online at www.brunswickartscouncil.org. For info call Mary Anne Fagerquest: 382-0553 or 371-1024. oak island tree Lighting Fri., 11/30 • 5:30 p.m.

Middleton Park, 4601 E. Oak Island Dr. The Sea Notes Choral Society will kick off this year’s tree lighting at 5:30 p.m., and the bulbs will begin to glow at 6 p.m. Enjoy Santa, too. Contact: Oak Island Parks and Recreation, 278-5518. Free.

secret santa Workshop Fri., 11/30 • 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Sat., 12/1 • 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Oak Island Teen Center, 4601 E. Oak Island Dr. Fri., 12/7 • 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Oak Island Rec. Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Dr. Come let your kids shop for mom and dad secretly. Gifts range from $1 to $5. Contact: 278-5518 or 248-6552.

Victorian tea Fri., 11/30 - Sat., 12/1 • 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Bell Clemmons, 313 E. Moore St. Lois Jane’s Riverview Inn, 106 W. Bay St. Robert Ruark Inn, 119 N. Lord St. In honor of the first annual Dickens’ Festival, three of the city’s inns team up to offer a delightful tea, delicious pastries, holiday decorations, music and more. Limited seating, 363-4169. Admission: $10 fee at each of the inns. christmas by the sea Parade Sat., 12/1 • 2 p.m.; Oak Island On Oak Island Drive from Oak Island Town Hall on 46th Street to McGlamery Street. Contact: SouthportOak Island Chamber of Commerce, 457-6964.

oak island christmas by the sea house tour Sun., 12/2 • 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Tour begins at the Oak Island Rec. Center 3003 E. Oak Island Dr. Six beautifully decorated private homes will be open to 4 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com

the public. Tour begins with refreshments and maps; is organized by and benefits the Oak Island Beautification Club. Advance tickets are available at: Blue Crab Blue, Grape and Ale, Seaside with Coffee, and Backyard Wild.

The Oak Island Rec. Center, the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Southport Visitors’ Center. Day-of tickets will be available at the Oak Island Rec. Center only. Admission: $8/adv., $10/day of. Contact: Jane Henderson, 278-7782 or Amy Kleva, 620-3714. santa’s Fire engine ride Tues., 12/4 • 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Southport Fire Dept., 1011 N. Howe St. Leave from the Southport Fire Dept. and enjoy a ride through the city’s downtown, in conjunction with the lighting of the Christmas tree at Dosher Memorial Hospital. Return to the fire department to snack on treats and get a surprise gift from Santa. sea notes choral society holiday concert See page 9. christmas choir cantata Fri., 12/7 - Sat., 12/8 • 7:30 p.m.

Sun, 12/9 • 4:30 p.m.

Ocean View United Methodist Church 8400 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island Revel in the sounds of the church’s Adult Chancel Choir as they present their sacred Christmas songs. Contact: Greg Walker, 278-5973.

Christmas at the Amuzu Fri., 12/7 - Sat., 12/8 • 7:30 p.m.

Thurs., 12/13 - Sat., 12/15 • 7:30 p.m.

Sun., 12/16 • 3 p.m.

Historic Amuzu Theater 111 N. Howe St. The theater will present a live show with music including old-time Christmas carols. Contact: Bill and Cathy Furpless, 523-2552. Admission: $15.

North Pole Adventure Fri., 12/7 • 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

OI Rec. Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Dr. Join the Oak Island Rec. Center as it is transformed into the North Pole.

For children. Crafts, activities, a special visitor, and more. Contact: 278-5518.

Movies on the Coast and Children’s Tree Lighting Fri., 12/7 • 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Fort Johnson Southport Museum and Visitor’s Center Garrison Lawn 113 W. Moore St. Watch “Arthur Christmas” on the lawn as WWAY will be reporting the tree lighting live. Contact: 457-7945 or 279-3331.

North Carolina Christmas Parade and Festival Sat., 12/8 • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Southport City Gym, 211 N. Atlantic Ave. Children’s crafts and activities.

Contact: Southport Parks and Rec., 457-7945.

Southport Christmas Flotilla 2011. Photo courtesy of Woody Wilson.

Brunswick High Schools Choirs and Theatre Troupes Sat., 12/8 • 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Fort Johnson Southport Museum and Visitor’s Center Garrison Lawn 113 W. Moore St. These young talents will present a Christmas tribute for free.

Santa Claus with Paws Sat., 12/8 • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

OI Teen Center, 4601 E. Oak Island Dr. Bring your dog to shop for you, and all gifts are only $1 to $5. Contact: 278-6552.

An 18th Century Christmas Sat., 12/8 • 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, 8884 St. Philips Road SE, Winnabow Explore how American colonists celebrated Christmas. Costumed interpreters will give guided tours of St. Philips Anglican Church and historic Brunswick on the hour. Enjoy a period candlelight service in the ruins of St. Phillips Anglican Church.

Activities and refreshments will be available. Contact: Jim McKee, 371-6613. Free

Santa’s Workshop Sat., 12/8 • 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Christmas Tour of Homes See pages 18-19.

Downtown Leland behind BB&T Food, entertainment, kids’ games and a parade. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. (roads close at 9 a.m.) Parade lineup starts at 7 a.m. on Village Road, Leland. Contact: 616-2671 or 371-9921.

Southport Christmas Flotilla Sat., 12/8 • 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Cape Fear River from the Southport Marina/Old Yacht Basin to Kingsley St. Anywhere along the riverfront will afford a view. Boats of all sizes and shapes, power and sail, will illuminate the dark night. Once again, Southport Elementary School art students will judge the boats on the variety and creativity of their decorations. Contact: Woody Wilson, 454-4327.

Brunswick Concert Band Holiday Concert See page 9.

A Victorian Holiday Sat., 12/15 • 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

NC Maritime Museum, Southport 204 E. Moore St. Enjoy sugar cookies, ginger snaps and hot apple cider as the museum shares Victorian holiday customs. Visitors can make ornaments to take home and hear stories from the era. Suitable for all ages. Admission: free. Contact: 457-0003 Family Ornament Hunt Sat., 12/15 • 8 p.m.

OI Teen Center, 4601 E. Oak Island Dr. Cost is $5/family of four. Pre-register (required) by calling 278-6552.

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the giving spirit: Holiday food drive will distribute goods to children in several Brunswick County schools Story by Bethany Turner What: Matthew’s Ministry Holiday Food Drive When: Dec. 3rd through 21st Info: www.matthewsministry.com

T

wo years ago, krisTie Disbrow joined a local Moms in Touch group—a chapter of an international non-profit in which mothers gather together to pray for their children and their children’s schools.

The first request received by the Brunswick County organization sent a shockwave through the women. A teacher asked the moms to pray for a student who did not have food at home—he was coming to school hungry.

“At the time of that request I remember thinking, ‘Wow, that is odd that there would be a child who didn’t have any food at home,’” Disbrow recalls.

“The next day I went to the teacher and asked if my family could provide food for this family. Her reply shocked me— she said that there were several families in the school that did not have adequate food at home. I became determined to ‘fix’ that, and the first solution I could think of was to e-mail my girlfriends and tell them that I needed food. It all began with a small bin on my front porch (that still sits on my porch). As the needs continued to grow, the food kept coming in.”

Since Disbrow felt the unquietable need to provide support for these chil-

Kristie Disbrow, the founder of Matthew’s Ministry, packs the organization’s iconic red wagon full of non-perishable food items to be distributed to Brunswick County school children who will not have enough food at home. Photo by Chris Webster

dren, the humble beginnings have surged to feed an average of 500 children per week. Backpacks—separate from the ones they use for school books—stuffed with non-perishable items are sent home each Friday and returned on Monday, ready to be filled again. These bags compensate for weekends and holidays when the kids don’t have access to school lunches.

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Disbrow’s young 501(c)(3) organization became known as Matthew’s Ministry, called such after the bible verse Matthew 25:40—simply put, “Whatever you do for the least of my brothers, you do for me.”

Currently Matthew’s Ministry caters to Southport, Jesse Mae, Bolivia, Supply, Virginia Williamson elementary schools, South Brunswick Middle, and South Brunswick and West Brunswick high schools.

“I also work with social workers in the county who contact me after a home visit and discover there is a lack of food in the home,” Disbrow explains. “These children have attended Shallotte Middle, Waccamaw Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Union Elementary, Town Creek Elementary and Cedar Grove Middle School.”

Disbrow never knows the identity of the children receiving backpacks due to school confidentiality. “But teachers, social workers, guidance counselors and parent facilitators tell me that the response is one of gratitude and excitement from the children on Friday when the bags are sent home.”

To help with the increased demand during the holidays, Southport Magazine is sponsoring a food drive for Matthew’s Ministry from December 3rd through 21st. Several businesses have opened their doors to accept donations for the organization during the drive, including: Brunswick Family Medicine (211 and Atlantic Ave. location); Cape Fear Fitness; Coastal Cosmetic Dentistry (Bolivia and Oak Island locations); Color Me Carolina; Farm Bureau (River Rd. location); First Community Bank (downtown Southport); Geddings and Kleva,

Attorneys at Law; Johnson and Moore, Attorneys at Law; Moore St. Market; Oak Island Accomodations; Sally Winey Bears; Island Healing Chiropractic; Nails

by Michelle (at Carol’s Mane Attraction); and the St. James Community Building.

In January 2011, Southport Realty donated space in its 727 N. Howe St. location to store food. A little red wagon was placed in the lobby so folks can drop off donations regularly.

Items Matthew’s Ministry can accept are soups, Chef Boy-R-Dee items, mac ‘n’ cheese, Ramen noodles, cereal, peanut butter, jelly, pasta sauce, pasta, granola bars, crackers, fruit cups, and applesauce. Food should not be brought in glass containers—because the food often travels with small children, plastic containers and pop top lids are preferred.

Within the non-profit, about 30 volunteers help Disbrow shop for food and deliver it to the schools, as well as pack backpacks. Every school except for Southport Elementary packs their own bags, which is handled by a social worker, guidance counselor or parent facilitator. Volunteers pack bags each Thursday at 9 a.m. at Southport Realty for Southport Elementary.

Though Disbrow is infinitely grateful for the help she receives on a regular basis, the demand for food continues to rise. Thus, the demand for kindhearted folks to chip in is on the rise.

Plans are in the works to provide food for seven more county schools in 2013: Town Creek, Lincoln, Belville and Union elementary schools, plus Leland, Waccamaw and Shallotte middles. This will increase Matthew Ministry’s reach to over 1,000 children.

“I have a need for shoppers,” Disbrow tells. “I provide a shopping list and all receipts are reimbursed by Matthew’s Ministry. I am also in need of food or monetary donations. All donations are tax deductible. Needs change each month and there is a place on my website, www.MatthewsMinistry.com, to sign up for my monthly newsletter.”

Monetary donations can be sent to 5149 Fernwood Dr., Southport, NC 28461. Donations can also be made on the organization’s website via Paypal.

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showcase

regional

MUSICAL APPEARANCES

work of art:

Charlie Perry uses his master welding skills to create custom sculptures Story by Bethany Turner

C

rossing the bridge to leave Oak Island, to the right of the structure is an unassuming yet iconic boat yard. A bright-blue giant—a several-ton boat lift—crouches on the edge of the water.

Beside her rests an old metal fish house, upon which “Sandy’s” can be read from the sky.

And in the large, white warehouse of this boat yard, more goes on than one might guess.

Charlie Perry grew up in Acme-Delco, and his father was a foreman at Riegelwood. After school, he followed in his father’s footsteps.

The construction industry taught Perry to be a connoiseur of all building mediums, but his true love was welding.

“You learn all kinds of different trades when you work in construction,” he explains.

“We’d go in with the whole project—the roads, the sewer, the pipe, the building, the electrical—you do everything. You had your different compartments, and my trade was pipefitter/boilermaker welder, but it all had to do with metal.”

He’d picked up his first welding rod at the age of 8. He watched his father creating sparks, which inspired a natural curiousity.

“I stuck the rod to the side of his arm thinking I was going to get a spark—but I burnt the hell out of him and he jumped about 10 feet in the air,” Perry recalls with a satisfied smirk. “His words to me were, ‘Don’t run!’ Of course, I hauled ass.”

As much as Perry learned from his industry, he was virtually an apprentice to his father. “I learned a lot of welding from my dad,” he affirms. “I learned welding in construction but I learned true welding from my dad—I can weld cast, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium ... you know, any of it. I was certified with the state years ago. I was certified on nuclear, and I made one of the first

Charlie Perry and his latest creation, ‘The Incredible Bolt.’ Photo by Bethany Turner

nuclear welds in the state of North Carolina.”

In 1979 Perry set up shop on the property that is now a live-music bar known as Old American Fish Company—a respecting nod to Perry’s American Fish Company, operating as a fish facility where men used to tie up their boats and put their catches on ice. Nearly 25 years later, Perry sold the land to Mark Brisson, a local developer who’s turned it into a bustling hot-spot for restaurants. Now just beside the bridge, Perry’s work as a master yard manager continues. Employees offer their skills at mending boats, and Perry fixes hot lunch—fish, or maybe venison he’s slowcooked overnight—most days for his men.

“I started building this place on 6/26 of ‘06—I know because you can see where all the guys wrote it in the concrete,” he says. “I had a lot of welders and tools because we did boat repair down there, too. We did the fish but we also kept the boats going.”

His new location isn’t as lively as the last, but Perry believes it was a move in the right direction. “We miss the waterfront, but the fishing industry, with the government stepping in—we were just run out of business.

And it’s getting worse for the fishermen.”

While a glimpse inside the warehouse reveals an expected mélange of work-worn tools and dusty floors, Perry can be found at his bench, welding more than just repairs.

With skills unavailable to most artists, Perry utilizes his vast knowledge of metal to bring together relics which once functioned to move a vessel. Now they combine to become a sculpted work of art.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with metal,” Perry shares. “It’s a challenge because you’ve got to have the knowledge of the metal—

8 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com

you’ve got to know what its potential can be, and what the breaking and heating points are, and what two metals will take and what two metals won’t take mixed together. There are little tricks to it.”

Perry’s deviation into art began while he was still doing construction. He welded custom rings and belt buckles as people requested of him. “Over the years—of course, I had a stroke in ‘08, so I couldn’t fish or play golf as much as I wanted to—I started making [furniture] for people who had old props and wanted tables and chairs made out of them.”

Perry’s works run the gamut—from a turtle-themed table with a circle of glass allowing a clear view to the prop which supports it, to a pair of bold marine characters: a merman and mermaid. Complete with fish-scale tails made from copper and brass, the sculptures offer a lot of personality. “She’s in love with him, and he’s got a damn attitude from hell,” Perry says with a laugh.

His most recent work is “The Incredible Bolt,” a miniature metal Hulk-like man, with bulging muscles made from bolts and a working pen apparatus. “I try to do off-thewall stuff, instead of being all nautical,” Perry confirms. “Everything I make is useful.”

The artist’s ideas are instantaneous, and he either grabs hold of them or lets them simmer for another day. “When I’m riding down the road and thinking about stuff, something will come to me,” he describes.

“Or at night when I’m thinking about it, I’ll start piecing it together. Just like when I did ‘Time to Go’ and ‘Peace Mon’—I was picking up a piece of pipe, I grabbed it in my hand and thought, Well, I could make a hand out of that. So I took a magic marker and traced my hand out on the pipe; it was really heavy schedule and I had to cut it, plasma arc weld it, bend it, heat it.”

Perry is building his next projects in his mind, talking out his visions as he plans. “I’ll probably start doing some political pieces, representing the next four years coming up.

For example, a man bending over picking up a dime with his back broken in two,” he explains. “It’s been a back-breaker these last

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Every Tues & Thurs: Karaoke (Thurs. dedicated to country)

Dead End Saloon

4907 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 454-4002 • www.thedeadendsaloon.com Every Thurs: Acoustic Jam w/ Dennis Walton, 6 p.m.

11/30: Coleman Daley, 7:30 p.m.

12/31: Live Music, 9 p.m.

Duffer’s Pub and Grill Oak Island Country Club 928 Caswell Beach Rd. Oak Island • 278-9299 Every Tues.: DJ Rodney

Fishy Fishy Cafe

106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 457-1881 • www.fishyfishycafe.com 12/1: Justin Crissman, 6 p.m.

12/6, 13, 20: Acoustic Jam w/ Dennis Walton, 6 p.m.

12/7, 8, 14, 21, 22: Live music, 6 p.m.

12/15: Christmas with Jenny Pearson, 6:30 p.m.

— Call for details and reservations

Odell Williamson Auditorium 50 College Rd., Bolivia 755-7416 • www.bccowa.com

11/30: The Swing Sisters, 7:30 p.m.

12/1: Holiday Concert, 2nd Marine Division Band, 3 p.m.

12/7: Willie Nelson and Family, 7:30 p.m.

Playhouse 211

4320-100 Southport-Supply Rd., St. James 200-7785 • www.playhouse211.com 12/1: Dark Water Rising, 7 p.m.

Spring Lake Park

Pine Rd., off of E. Boiling Spring Rd. Boiling Spring Lakes • 845-2614 12/7: The Hired Hands, 6 p.m.

12/21: The Hired Hands, 6 p.m.

To list your monthly music in Southport Magazine, contact: bethany@southportmag.com

four, so these next four are going to be probably as bad or worse, and if it isn’t, then I’ll weld him back up and fix his back.”

Another, which he may call “From the Earth to the Moon: Apollo 13,” will be a table with a shuttle launching from the globe on the bottom, up the shaft, to the moon at the top. Possibly, he says, he’ll add a mirror between the two to reflect the moon’s craters.

Gallery owners, like Don Baker of 8, reach out to Perry to show his pieces. Otherwise, some of his wares are for sale in his wife’s boutique, Three Sisters Boutique, or online at www.chpdesignsnc.com. Perry still creates custom work; folks can contact him by e-mailing chpdesignsnc@gmail.com.

caroling, caroling now we go: Audiences will enjoy vocal and instrumental talent with holiday cheer this month

C

hristmas has the finetuned ability to heat one’s chilly heart with only the sounds of the season. Carols can make us jolly, or they may make us sentimental, or they may inspire. No matter the meaning, there’s something about this music which simply brings a smile to one’s face. The radio station 102.7 GNI dedicates more than a month to such spirited songs, so that even running errands holds a bit of excitement.

And what else would one play to celebrate Christmas in July? Surely the dog days of summer could use a bit of Christmas cheer.

Thus, it’s only fitting we celebrate December by venturing out to enjoy holiday music from the skills of local talent. This month the Sea Notes Choral Society and the Brunswick Concert Band will offer up hefty servings of fa-la-la’s as they will each perform free concerts multiple nights.

sea notes Choral society holiday Concert Thurs., Dec. 6th • 7:30 p.m.

Fri., Dec. 7th • 7:30 p.m.

Sun, Dec. 9th • 3 p.m.

Hatch Auditorium, NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell • 100 Caswell Beach Rd. Free, but donations accepted Founded in May 1974, the Sea Notes Choral Society has since evolved to become an artistic necessity within southeastern NC. The chorus showcases three times each year: in the spring, for the NC Fourth of July Festival, and at Christmas. Their repertoire includes a performance of Handel’s complete “Messiah” with a full professional orchestra—as well as delightful, upbeat pop and Broadway standards, and spiritual sacred and gospel music.

The Sea Notes is a key group to our community: The members have sung at

Story by Bethany Turner

dedications for the Thomas J. Harrelson segment of U.S. Highway 17 (the road’s namesake was a former NC Transportation Secretary and a charter member of the choral society) and the Museum of Coastal Carolina. Perhaps most inspiringly, the group frequently presents patriotic classics at the Fourth of July Festival’s naturalization ceremonies.

“The 115 to 130 performing members of Sea Notes are a dedicated group of people, working hard every Monday evening at rehearsal and on their own between rehearsals,” Dianne Hoffman, librarian and one of six directors for the Sea Notes, details.

“They pitch in to do whatever is needed.

The board members are devoted to their individual jobs—publicity, patrons, finance, etc. Most members are retired and come from all walks of life. It is great to be a part of this organization.”

Hoffman has experience directing church choirs in NC and VA, including Shallotte’s St. Brendan Catholic Church of which she is currently the choir director. “At Charlotte Country Day School I taught music and produced a spring musical each year with grades 5 through 8, presenting fullscale musicals like ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ and ‘1776,’” she explains. “My husband, Tom, and I moved to Lockwood Folly more than 18 years ago. It wasn’t long until we found out about Sea Notes. We joined immediately.”

This year marks the Sea Notes’ 36th annual holiday concert. Hoffman promises there’ll be some familiar and some not-so-familiar pieces. “There is music from fine choral composers/arrangers like John Rutter, John Williams, and Samuel Barber,” she says. “There are several traditional carols and several lighter, secular ones. ‘Twelve Days to Christmas’—not ‘of’ Christmas—is from the musical ‘She Loves Me.’ It is fast and funny!”

The chorus will be accompanied by Susan Linton, the choir accompanist at St. Brendan’s. Two pieces are meant for fourhand piano, in which Linton will be joined

by Jane Boberg. Another piece will require Linton at the organ and Boberg at the pi-

ano. “The centerpiece of the more serious music is Vaughan Williams’ ‘Fantasia on Christmas Carols’; this piece will feature Alex Hill, baritone,’ Hoffman shares.

Certainly a highlight of the night will be Hill’s vocals. He is the director of music and liturgy at St. Mark Catholic Church in Wilmington. Hill garnered a bachelor’s degree in music composition with honors at the University of North Texas and a master’s in conducting at Pennsylvania State University. He has performed in numerous university and regional operas and musical theatre. It will be a unique collaboration to cap off the 36th annual performance.

Brunswick Concert Band holiday Concert Fri., Dec. 14th • 7:30 p.m.

Hatch Auditorium, NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell, 100 Caswell Beach Rd. Sun, Dec. 16th • 3 p.m.

Odell Williamson Auditorium 150 College Rd. NE, Bolivia Free, but donations accepted Over 25 years ago, the idea for the Brunswick Concert Band was just a seedling, sowed by a group of musicians who acted as the pit band in the Brunswick Players’ production of “Oklahoma.” In 1995 it became an official non-profit organization. Today the band is a welcomed asset to the community, contributing each year to the annual naturalization ceremony in Southport and including musicians from Brunswick, New Hanover, Pender and Horry (South Carolina) counties.

Like the Sea Notes, the concert band performs three times during the year, all for free: in the spring, summer, and at Christmas. This holiday season will be no different as the Brunswick Little Theater singers will join in the fun, led by Debbie

Skillman. The band will be directed by Tom Smicklas. “I joined the Brunswick Concert Band a little over one year ago,” he details. “Having a practically lifelong interest in wind instruments and almost 40 years conducting concert bands, this group was a great fit for me.”

In fact, Smicklas assures playing as a member of the band is as fulfilling as directing, though he appreciates being able to step back and admire the group. “The best part of conducting is to experience the wonderful effort and dedication expressed by each member and to witness the interaction between our student members and senior-aged players [current members are 14-85 years old]. The Brunswick Band is the ideal model of a community activity.”

The audience can expect a lively evening with the pairing of the band and the singers for such performances as a Gershwin Christmas salute, a medley of Broadway Christmas selections, and more.

Smicklas says even the Grinch will make an appearance.

“Both Debbie Skillman and I were determined to program some of the best seasonal literature available,” Smicklas ensures.

“The selections are designed to appeal both to the performers for their artistic challenge and to the audience, who will hear tunes that are both beautiful and foot-tapping.”

Recognizable songs will include “White Christmas” and “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” As well, selections from “Messiah” will be heard along with renditions of Mannheim Steamroller’s arrangements.

“Two significant pieces to be performed are ‘The Salvation Army March’ by John Philip Sousa, which was last printed in 1938 and obtained through special permission from the original publisher,” Smicklas continues, “and the Lustspiel Overture, played as it was recorded by the Thomas A. Edison Concert Band in 1912, 100 years ago. We obtained this work from the famed Eastman School of Music library in Rochester, NY. I hope the community attends one of the two free concerts this December to support this noteworthy artistic experience for performer and audience alike.”

southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 9

savor

international inspiration:

Chef Christopher Wheeler contributes to the global flavors and local innovation at Ports of Call Bistro Story by Bethany Turner

N

estled at a cozy table with good friends and family, one can feel both “transported and at home” in Ports of Call Bistro (116 N. Howe St., Southport). Such is the goal for proprietors Jake Pfohl and Ray Aeayan. Rich jewel tones complement rustic walls. Deep blue geometric cutouts pepper the hallway, and maps of the Mediterreanean serve as the backdrops for soup du jour and specially crafted sandwiches and entrees. Freshly baked goods from the hands of Aeayan himself beckon from the glass case: lemon cake, sticky toffee pudding, and pumpkin and praline cheesecake tantalize from afar.

This is the home of Executive Chef Christopher Wheeler.

The calm and friendly chef is not of the Gordon Ramsay persuasion (though, we’ve not seen him under fire in a dinner rush). Rather Wheeler is eloquently coming into his newly acquired role as head of the galley. Not yet in this position for a full year, Wheeler took over the kitchen after the former chef, a regionally celebrated Rhonda Uhlmann, departed to begin a new endeavor of her own. Do not underestimate Wheeler’s youth for inexperience, however—his dishes are pleasing even the most ornery of palates.

The global flavors Ports of Call is known

One soup du jour from Chef Wheeler: fish and corn chowder made with catfish and cod. Photo by Bethany Turner

for are no new concept for Wheeler. His first foray into the field was a three-year stint at P.F. Chang’s before heading off to study at culinary school. After gaining experience in the bustling Charlotte restaurant scene, Wheeler moved to Pinehurst to cook for the restaurant within the boutique Jefferson Inn. This all culminated to his relocation to Southport, taking a position under the helm of Chef Jim Greene in Bella Cucina. “I get a lot of my inspiration from him,” Wheeler tells. “He’s from New York; he’s retired and lives on Oak Island now. He taught me a lot—he has a lot of energy. Oh, and Bobby Flay.”

A few years later, Wheeler’s career path brought him a little closer to the waterway—and much closer to running his own kitchen. “I got a job with Ray and Jake; they opened about a year and a half ago,” he recalls. “I’ve been here since the beginning. I was working under Chef Rhonda, and I took over in March.”

Admitting a decline in customers after Uhlmann’s departure, Wheeler’s skills garner him well-deserved attention from the community. “We’ve had a good reception from customers,” he says. “A lot

10 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com

of people followed Rhonda, but now I’ve got a little fan base. Everyone says our soups here are the best soups in town; they’ll come in here just for that sometimes—our sauces, too.”

On the day I met Chef Wheeler, prior to ever shaking his hand, I became enamored with his fish and corn chowder—a bonesoothing reprieve from the chilling rain outside. Catfish, cod and creaminess gave the soup a savory, homey appeal. A sprig of thyme (one of my favorite herbs) offered an irresistible aroma and beautiful aesthetic. I followed the course with Wheeler’s oyster po’boy. The classic buttery and salty taste of the oyster was rounded out

by Wheeler’s tzatziki sauce, a tip-of-thehat to their Mediterranean base.

Leading the Ports of Call kitchen has allowed Wheeler to craft his own menus for the spring, summer, fall, and soon, winter. Creations have included Moroccan paella, shrimp diablo, and littleneck clams served with chorizo. Understandably, he enjoys working with Mediterranean, Italian and oriental flavors. However, expanding his culinary chops, Wheeler is now experimenting with the cuisine of other countries. “I just recently started cooking a lot of Indian—so turmeric, mustard seed, curries,” he explains.

Despite the international inspiration, one of the most important rules for Ports of Call, and Wheeler especially, is that they utilize nearby ingredients. “I like to support the local economy—the fishermen and farmers around here,” he affirms. “It’s better than getting it shipped from California. Whenever I can, when-

Chef Christopher Wheeler in his second home: the Ports of Call kitchen. Photo by Bethany Turner

ever it’s possible, I like to buy local over U.S. Foods. They let me know when something special is coming in, like Haag and Sons—they do a great job. Their fish is some of the best fish around.”

Folks can expect the winter menu to feature heartier entrées, such as stews.

“Maybe osso bucco,” Wheeler considers, “maybe put that on the menu. It’s veal; the center bone is braised and stewed with carrots, onions, celery, tomatoes, rosemary, red wine and broth. Serve it over garlic mashed potatoes; it’s a really homestyle kind of food.”

As well, a new prix-fixe menu makes an appearance on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. It features three courses for $21.95, available from 5 p.m. to close.

The menu will continue to change, but its initial run offered an enticing first impression. Pan-seared wild Atlantic salmon melded with a lemon and tarragon butter; chicken breast scalloppini entertained with a fire-roasted red-pepper jelly; linguine in spicy marinara danced with mussels.

The menu will offer a choice of specialty soup or salad, three entrées, and two desserts prepared by Aeayan. During the first prix-fixe, he made bon-bons with red velvet cake covered with chocolate, and a “Food for the Gods” bar with dates and walnuts.

Overall, with Chef Wheeler’s open mind toward global dishes and serving locally sourced foods, we’re eager to encounter his next conceptions.

savor SEAFOOD SPECIALTY Atlantic Seafood and Steaks

5059 Southport-Supply Rd. SE, Southport 457-4477 • www.atlanticsouthport.com Casual dining with variety from seafood, steak, chicken and pasta. Known for its Calabash-style cuisine and low-country classics.

Bald Head Island Club

1 Salt Meadow Trail, Bald Head Island 457-7300 • www.bhiclub.net Offers options, from the Pelicatessen located poolside, to the pub-style Palms dining room or al fresco Palms Terrace to the Grille, the club’s primary dining venue. Full or temporary membership in the BHI Club is required to dine.

Cape Fear Restaurant and Lounge

101 W. Bay St., Southport 457-9222 • www.capefearrestaurant.com Family-owned, Cape Fear Restaurant delivers excellent Southern-style cooking in the form of crabs, scallops and, of course, surf ‘n’ turf.

r n Fish House Restaurant g 5710 57th Place W., Oak Island h 278-6012 • www.bwpresort.com

Offering items such as award-winning chowder

o and signature crab dip to home-made desserts . and chef specials. , Fishy Fishy Cafe ; 106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport d 457-1881 • www.fishyfishycafe.com , A sophisticated take on the dockside seat food café, Fishy Fishy serves up plates like y shrimp ceviche, Cajun grouper bites, and cilantro crusted Wahoo.

s Frying Pan - 319 West Bay St., Southport • 363-4382 r Featuring homemade sweet potato bis. cuits and fried seafood, as well as other delit cacies such as crab salad.

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

y Jolly Rogers - 5515 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 278-7060 t The menu features seafood, from shrimp to oysters and more, broiled or fried. t d Jones Seafood House 6404 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 278-5231

n Family owned and operated since 1964, g this eatery offers seafood fried, broiled or - grilled, plus charbroiled steaks.

Gourmet doughnuts in a variety of flavors, from chocolate to even Fruit Loops, are available at Boiling Spring Lakes Doughnut Shoppe. Also, try their Boston cream doughnuts or pinwheels. Photo by Bethany Turner

MoJo’s on the Harbor

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

Provision Company

130 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 457-0654 • www.provisioncompany.com Established in 1933, Provision Company offers a la carte seafood sandwiches, conch fritters, steamed shrimp and more.

Shoals Club

100 Station House Way, Bald Head Island 454-4850 • www.shoalsclub.com A private membership club, Shoals Club emphasizes fresh ingredients and a twist on American dishes. This is especially true in its local grilled tuna, grouper and other seafood items, as well as its excellent steak.

The Lucky Fisherman

4419 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport, 457-9499

A Calabash-style seafood buffet, also serving up treats like fish tacos and scallops.

Yacht Basin Eatery

122 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 363-4108 • www.yachtbasineatery.com Dishing up goods from both the North and South, Yacht Basin Eatery offers everything from hand-rolled pizza, Jersey-style breads and authentic Italian, to Southern comfort foods and fresh seafood.

MODERN AMERICAN Live Oak Cafe

The Pharmacy Restaurant

110 E. Moore St., Southport 457-5577 • www.thepharmacyrestaurant.com Fine dining with home-spun appeal abounds at The Pharmacy Restaurant. Enjoy everything from gourmet chicken salad and fish tacos to blackened tilapia and Bouillabaisse.

DELIS AND GRILLS Baked with Love

302 N. Howe St., Southport • 454-0044 Offering sandwiches, salads, soups and quiche.

A gem of a café located on Southport’s main drag.

614 N. Howe St., Southport 454-4360 • www.liveoakcafenc.com Serving creative cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, Live Oak Cafe offers dishes such as duck crepes, low-country gumbo, and baked scallops au gratin.

Beana's Kitchen

Mr. P’s Bistro

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

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

106 SE 58th St., Oak Island • 278-7209

Open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Beana's serves breakfast and lunch.

Bob's Dogs

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

southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 11

Castaway Keys

edible

EVENTS Weekly Wine Tastings Every Thursday, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. • $5+ Uncorked by the Sea 602-A N. Howe St., Southport 454-0633 • www.uncorkedbythesea.com

“Good Wines for a Great Cause” Wine Tastings benefit local non-profit organizations. Join us to enjoy great wines and hors d’oeuvres while helping out a worthy cause.

A minimum $5 donation per person is requested. Uncorked tastings raised $1,675 for The New Hope Clinic this summer!

Weekly Wine Tastings Every Friday, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Southport Wine Rack 102 W. Brown St., Southport 457-5147 • www.southportwinerack.com

Our tasting events are a great way to meet other wine lovers, get to know our assorted wines, and learn to discern among the different flavors and regions. No experience is necessary to participate in our tasting events, and we encourage you to bring your friends.

Premier Wine Tasting Wed., Dec. 12th Uncorked by the Sea 602-A N. Howe St., Southport 454-0633 • www.uncorkedbythesea.com

Limited to just five couples, you’ll enjoy some extraordinary wine along with a little wine education and a great time. $50 per person, payable at the time of reservation.

For more information, call 910-454-0633 or email info@uncorkedbythesea.com.

Annual Champagne Tasting Fri., Dec. 14th • 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. • $10 The Grape and Ale 8521 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 933-4384 • www.thegrapeandale.com

Taste 10 different bubblies from around the world, enjoy some delicious appetizers from The Flying Fish Cafe, and take home your complimentary champagne flute. Reservations are required for this event.

Howl at the Moon Fri., Dec. 28th • 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Access 39, East Beach, BHI • FREE 457-7450 • www.maritimemarketbhi.com

The largest beach party each month when the full moon rises out of the Atlantic Ocean. Attendees BYOB and bring appetizers to share. The Market will bring huge pots of soup and some of Chef Greg’s famous appetizers to share as well.

When the moon rises, the entire throng of attendees breaks into a collective “howl”! A bonfire is usually blazing, and the event draws hundreds.

1102 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-0240 Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Castaway Keys features a varying menu with items such as a classic Reuben, gator bites and crab nachos.

Chaser's Sports Bar and Grill

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

Dead End Saloon & Fish Factory Grille

4907 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 454-4002 • www.thedeadendsaloon.com With two outdoor patios, Fish Factory offers Maryland-style crab cakes and all the bar-food fixin's: wings, chili, cheddar fries, nachos, and more.

Duffer's Pub and Grill

928 Caswell Beach Rd., Oak Island 278-9299 • www.oakislandgolf.com

Located at the scenic Oak Island Golf Club, the grill serves up premier burgers and wraps, as well as entrees from prime rib to salmon.

East Beach Diner

cializes in organic and fair-trade coffee as well as gourmet sandwiches crafted with Boar’s Head deli meats.

6302 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island • 201-9925

Here, flounder is prepared the old-fashioned way. Enjoy breakfast, too.

Oak Island Subs and Salads

BARBECUE

From BLT's with avocado to Cajun and Reuben sandwiches, this deli serves up quality sandwiches.

The BBQ House

5705 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island• 278-9040

Olde Brunswick General Store

1450 50 Lakes Dr., Southport • 845-2707

Made-to-order breakfast and lunch grill.

Russell's Place

5700 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island • 278-3070

Serving breakfast and lunch until 2 p.m., Russell's place is a little restaurant with a lot of home cooking.

Shagger Jacks

Serving pizza with homemade dough, as well as burgers, sandwiches and hot dogs.

Eric's Grille

Side Street Café

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

5827 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 933-4615 Offering hand-pattied burgers, subs, shrimp, wings, hot dogs and more.

Little Bit's Grill

731 N. Howe St., Southport • 454-0088 Bald Head Marina at Deep Point • 457-7830 www.taylorcuisinecatering.com Putting its Southern style where guests' mouths are, this eatery offers "Taylor-made" fried string beans, fried green tomatoes, country fried steak and more in two locations.

5902 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island • 278-6430

A classic burger joint, with onion rings and other sides. Plus, breakfast is served, including pancakes and bacon.

Local’s Family Diner

832 N. Howe St., Southport 457-0444 • www.localsfamilydiner.com Within a warm and friendly atmosphere, Local’s Family Diner serves breakfast all day long and a seafood and entrée menu to rival higher-priced eateries.

Loco Jo’s

602 N. Howe St., Suite E, Southport • 457-9009

A burger joint with fish sandwiches, pulled pork and shrimp wraps. Offers select Vietnamese dishes, too, with over 60 beer selections.

Kopp's Kwik Stop II

3196 George II Hwy., Southport, 845-7700 Kopp's grill serves up a full breakfast (available for school kids before class starts, too), plus homemade lunches throughout the day.

Maritime Market Cafe

8 Maritime Way, Bald Head Island 457-7450 • www.maritimemarketbhi.com

Serving breakfast classics as well as imaginative daily specials like seafood omelets or banana crepes. As well, lunch includes fresh sandwiches, salads and wraps.

Moore Street Market

130 E. Moore St., Southport • 363-4203 Open for breakfast and lunch, this market spe-

12 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com

Flying Fish Cafe

705 Ocean Dr., Oak Island (at the pier) 278-5504 • www.oakislandpier.com/cafe Nestled beside the Oak Island Pier, Flying Fish Cafe offers a panoramic view of the ocean and excellent West-Coast cuisine.

Oak Island Restaurant

8004 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 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.

4320 E. Beach Dr., Oak Island 278-5668 • www.eastbeachdiner.com

BAJA CALIFORNIA

Taylor Cuisine Café

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

CHINESE Asian Taste

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 3, Southport 457-0988 • www.asiantastesouthportnc. com Take-out traditional Chinese food, with staples such as lo mein, sesame chicken, General Tso's and more.

Taste of China

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

IRISH Slainte Irish Pub

1513 N. Howe St., Ste. 10, Southport • 457-6554

Aside from the Guinness, Smithwicks, Killian’s and Jameson—Slainte Irish Pub offers up traditional fare.

ITALIAN Bella Cucina

The Boathouse

1643 N. Howe St., Southport, 363-4638 Showcasing classic fish 'n' chips as well as lunch staples such as wraps, and breakfast too.

5177 Southport-Supply Rd., Southport 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.

The Gravy Boat

Joseph's Italian Bistro

132 Country Club Rd., Oak Island, 201-1756 Roadside diner serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner—open for 24 hours a day.

Turtle Island Restaurant & Catering

6220 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 278-4944 Casual dining in a tropical setting, with caribbean-inspired seafood as well as steaks, chicken, pork and salads.

Trolly Stop

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

Wildlife Restaurant and Grill

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

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 candle-lit dining and fresh Italian continental cuisine.

JAPANESE Kobe Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi

8317 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 933-4405 Generous servings from the hibachi grill, as well as decadent sushi.

Tengu Japanese Steak House

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

MEDITERRANEAN

Famous Subs and Pizza

Ports of Call

116 N. Howe St., Southport 457-4544 • www.portsofcallbistro.com Ports of Call features the cuisines of Spain, Portugal, Morocco and Greece, from tapas to gyros. In the bakery, folks will find artisanal breads, rolls, dessert breads, bars, cookies and more.

MEXICAN

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

Pizza Shack

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

The Pepperoni Grill

Plaza Garibaldi

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 1, Southport 454-0000 Serving authentic dishes, such as fajitas, enchiladas and chalupas, in a friendly environment. Catering also available.

San Felipe

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.

THAI Thai by the Sea

4961 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport 454-0950 Known for fresh salsa and margaritas; serves traditional Mexican dishes.

8300 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 2786420 Brightly decorated, Thai by the Sea offers traditional Thai including dumplings, with a large selections of dishes and spice levels. Tofu also available.

PIZZERIAS

Thai Peppers

Dry Street Pub and Pizza

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

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115 E. Moore St., Southport 457-0095 • www.thaipeppersnc.us Serving decadent and creative Oriental food of the finest quality, prepared with care. A broad range of traditional Thai dishes and sushi are available.

Side Street Bakery

BAKERIES Ahoy Doughnuts

4922 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island Enjoy fresh doughnuts and "Panther Paws," clusters of doughnut holes in cinnamon, sugar and glaze.

ICE CREAM PARLORS Flava’s Coffee and Ice Cream

BSL Doughnut Shoppe

3148 George II Hwy, Boiling Spring Lakes 845-8996 The doughnuts available in BSL are nearly gourmet: apple caramel, glazed cake, mocha, and more.

The Confectionary

4346 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport • 4579310 Featuring jelly doughnuts, apple fritters, cupcakes, muffins, peach cobbler, bagels and more.

Flip-Flop Bakery

1102 N. Howe St., Cottage J, Southport 330-224-6315

www.oldesouthportvillage.com/flipflopbakery.html

310 W. Bay St., Southport • 457-5150 Flava's allows guests the choice between many flavors, including death by chocolate, birthday cake, cookies and cream, and more.

Spike’s Dairy Bar

201 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-7611 More than just ice cream, Spike's offers hot dogs as well.

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HUNGRY FOR MORE?

Check out our online dining guide on the go!

A micro-bakery providing artisan breads, pastries, scones, brownies, muffins, cookies and more.

Flying Pig Coffeehouse

6006 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 278-5929 • www.flyingpig.us Better known for its specialty coffee drinks, but also offering fresh bagels and muffins.

If you'd like to list your restaurant, e-mail the business’ address, phone number and website, plus a brief description to: bethany@southportmag.com

SOUTHPORT 114 S. Howe Street (910) 457-7676

105 West Saint George St., Southport • 363-4629 Locals suggest the cupcakes, lemon bars, key lime pie, and carrot cake.

REALTY

“The World on your Plate”

727 N. Howe Street (910) 457-6401

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NE W E S Open for Christmas Eve and O UR THREE-C IXE New Year's Eve Dinners F X I PR Find us on Facebook for our: DINNERand Prix-Fixe Menus, sday Every Tue 5 ay, $21.9 Wednesd

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116 N. Howe St. Southport, NC Find us on Facebook: Ports of Call

Call for reservations: 910-457-4544

portsofcallbistro.com

southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 13

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Lissa Stephens Bevel, Independent Consultant • Email: camo.mama@ymail.com 14 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 7SHJL `V\Y VYKLY I` +LJ

Towngate Center • 715 N. Howe Street • Southport, NC

910.457.0450

cheers W

hen planning your new Year’s Eve bash, typically the first thing on your to-do list after you have committed to a menu is to choose the beverages you will serve.

The ultimate wine for pairing with just about any food is, of course, champagne—not to mention it is the traditional toasting wine to bring in the New Year. But don’t stop there, serve it the entire evening!

Most of us cannot afford the real deal. To be recognized in the world of wine-speak as a true champagne, the wine must originate from the Champagne region of France. The French produce their product the same as any other sparkling wine, with secondary fermentation in the bottle to produce carbonation, and it is made primarily with either Chardonnay or Pinot Noir grapes. Fortunately for those of us who love the bubbly, there are many affordable alternatives in the marketplace without having to resort to the supermarket, mass-produced sparklers.

In addition to some excellent sparkling wines from other regions of France, we are finding some real gems from other places such as Argentina, Spain, Italy, and the good old US of A. Toso Brut Pascual Toso San José, Guymallén, Argentina A big seller at The Grape and Ale is Toso Brut from Argentina. Bright green and yellow in color, this sparkling wine balances yeast with the essential characteristics of Chardonnay. On the palate, it is soft, fresh and easy to drink.

With time, the Pascual Toso Sparkling Brut evolves and gains complexity in its bottle. Toso retails for only $9.99 and will be on sale for $8.49 until the end of the year.

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Candace Hobbs is a contributor to Southport Magazine and owner of The Grape and Ale in Oak Island. Courtesy photo

The Grape and Ale 8521 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island (910) 933-4384 www.thegrapeandale.com norton Brut rose Bodega Norton Mendoza, Argentina Staying in Argentina, if you are looking for a bit of pink in your bubbly, try Norton Brut Rose. A blend of 50 percent Chardonnay, 40 percent Chenin, and 10 percent Pinot Noir, you will find intense aromas of red fruits, strawberries and blueberries. It is young, fresh and pleasant with a long finish. This wine retails at $11.80 and will be on sale at $10.03 through December.

Borgo Magredo prosecco Borgo Magredo Veneto, Italy Truly, one of the best sparklers that I’ve ever had is Borgo Magredo Prosecco, coming in at $16.99. Borgo Magredo is a fairly large producer with vineyards

in the Le Marche and Abruzzo regions of Italy. Crisp, light, and smooth as silk, this Prosecco is a favorite amongst my fellow wine biz ladies!

and publisher of the The Wine Advocate says, “Similar to top-quality non-vintage champagne at one-third the price.” Saint Hilaire retails for $16.59.

Volpi Moscato Cantine Volpi Frizzante Piemonte, Italy If you have a sweet tooth, you must have the Volpi Moscato from the Piemonte region of Italy. This wine was “The Top Selling Wine at The Grape & Ale in 2011!” There’s moscato, and there’s moscato. There’s really no other moscato in the marketplace to compare. At $12.79, it is brilliant with a golden yellow color. Intense, fragrant, delicate aroma of Moscato with a very elegant bouquet reminiscent of orangeblossom, peach and honey. Pleasantly sweet, aromatic, and round, it gives a creamy sensation on the palate.

Brut premier Louis Roederer Champagne, France However, if you insist on the “real deal,” we carry three or four true champagnes, including Dom Perignon. One of the best values at the price of $55.49 is Louis Roederer Brut Premier. Classy, smooth, and delicious, this selection delivers everything one looks for in a beautiful Champagne.

Montmartre rosé Sec Clos Montmartre Tournan-en-Brie, Paris, France One of my personal favorites (as I am a Rose lover) is Montmartre Rose Sec ($12.39) from Tournan, France. This dry sparkling wine is fresh and fruity, lively on the palate, with a delicate mousse and appealing finish. Montmartre Rosé Sec makes a fine aperitif and accompanies a variety of light dishes.

Blanquette de limoux Domaine Saint-Hilaire Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon, France France’s oldest and very first sparkling wine, Saint-Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux, was made by Benedictine Monks of the Abbey of Saint Hilaire more than a century ago in the Southern foothills of Limoux. The French compare SaintHilaire with their finest champagne and at a fraction of the cost. Robert Parker, internationally renowned wine critic

Kila Cava Vins El Cep Penedes, Spain Let’s not forget Cava. Spain’s answer for sparkling wine is produced in the traditional méthode champenoise and is an important part of Spanish tradition of consumption at parties, marriages, and almost any celebration. Our recommendation is Kila Cava at the insanely good price of $11.49.

argyle Brut Argyle Winery Willamette Valley, Oregon Our domestic offering is Argyle Brut at $37. The 2008 vintage received a stellar 90-point rating from both Wine Spectator and The Wine Advocate. All Argyle Winery sparkling wines are vintage dated. Two grape varieties, Oregon Chardonnay and Oregon Pinot Noir, are used in Argyle Brut, Knudsen Vineyard Brut, Extended Tirage Brut and Argyle’s special Brut Rosé. The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay ratio of each sparkling wine changes with each vintage and are indicated on the front label. The 2008 vintage is 63 percent Pinot Noir and 37 percent Chardonnay.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14TH • 5 P.M. TO 7 P.M. Attend The Grape and Ale’s annual champagne tasting, while Rhonda Uhlmann from The Flying Fish Café will be catering some delectable appetizers to pair with the sparklers. $10/person, includes complimentary champagne flute. Reservations and pre-payment must be made by Fri., 12/7 by visiting the wine shop or by calling 933-4384. southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 15

4022 Barnes Bluff Drive Intracoastal View Oak Island, NC

wealth

Planning for a healthy financial future

Overlooking the Intracoastal, this elegant 4420 sq ft home has 4 waterview bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 6 walk-in closets, waterview dining & office, elevator garage level to main level near pantry. Amazing kitchen with granite island. Listed at $765,000.

Call (910)520-8868 for your private showing appointment or view details online at www.MargaretRudd.com

A

plan is essential for navigating any path. Your financial plan is vital to helping keep you on track to achieve a lifetime of financial success. Many people mistakenly believe that a financial plan includes only investing for retirement. While saving for your golden years is an integral component of any financial strategy, you shouldn’t forget other fundamental objectives: establishing a budget, setting financial goals, investing early and regularly, estate planning and saving for college.

establish a budget:

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A budget is the key to managing your spending and saving. If you don’t follow a budget, you’re likely spending more than you realize, and saving less than you could be.

Begin by tracking your spending for a month. The easiest way to do this is by going about your life as usual, writing down every bill you pay and item you buy, from groceries to your daily coffee. At the end of the month, compare what you earned with what you spent. Ask yourself: Were all my expenditures necessary? Did I live within my means? What can I cut out, or at least cut down on?

Next, prioritize your expenses and needs. Obviously, some expenses are fixed—like food, housing and utilities.

But when it comes to your other “needs,” figure out what you can do without, but be rational and reasonable. You can’t cut out every seemingly unnecessary expense; a luxury-free budget is about as sensible as no budget at all. And completely depriving yourself of all treats will likely send you on a seriously budget-damaging spending spree.

set financial goals:

Your budget will be easier to follow if you have financial goals that are important to you. In the short term, you may Scan the QR code or want to pay off credit card debt, buy a visit this web address: new car or take a vacation; your long-term www.facebook.com/ goals might include saving for the down payment on a home, retirement, or your SouthportMagazine children’s college tuition.

Once you’ve identified your goals, give 16 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com

by Greg Ochipa yourself a timeline for achieving them.

You’ll then know how much of your budget to set aside each month, and the wisest investments to choose.

Review your goals periodically so they’re always fresh in your mind. If you go off course, don’t get frustrated and give up—simply reassess and continue working toward your goals.

invest regularly—even small amounts: Investing early in life is definitely advantageous because your money has more time to compound and grow. But it’s never too late to make investing a new habit.

Many people don’t believe they have enough money to become investors. But you don’t have to invest a large amount of money initially, or even regularly. It’s perfectly fine to start slow and small—and stay small—while you adjust to your new financial habit. If you’re able to, have the money taken directly out of your paycheck. You probably won’t even miss it.

Your investing plan should include a strategy for increasing your contributions.

After a few months of investing, when you’ve adjusted to living on less money, boost the amount you’re investing up just a percent or two. You can also look for ways to invest lump sums of money, such as when you get a bonus, a monetary gift or your tax refund.

estate planning:

A recent “Wills and Estate Planning Survey” conducted by Lawyers.com found that only 35 percent of Americans have a last will and testament, and even less have other estate planning documents in place,

such as a trust or a power of attorney for financial or health-care matters. Many people think they don’t have enough money or possessions to worry about; however, an estate plan should be an essential part of any financial plan.

A will is a good place to start. Your will ensures that your assets, such as your possessions, home, other property, savings and investments, are passed on according to your wishes after your death. If you die without a will—called dying intestate—your assets and possessions will be distributed according to your state’s law.

Chances are, your state will not share your intentions for dividing up your assets.

Your estate plan should also include a living will, which addresses the health care measures you would or wouldn’t like taken if you’re ever unable to make such decisions for yourself.

College tuition planning:

Most parents would love to pay for their children’s college education but don’t think they could ever save enough to cover the ever-increasing cost of higher education. Thankfully, the federal and state governments have made funding your child’s education easier with tax-favored funding options, such as the Coverdell Education Savings Account, 529 prepaid tuition or college savings plans, or custodial accounts under the Uniform Gift to Minors Act (UGMA) or the Uniform Transfer to Minors Act (UTMA).

If you consciously make college tuition planning part of your financial plan, along with budgeting, estate planning and investing, you’ll stay on the right path toward achieving a lifetime of financial success.

Any questions?

Contact Greg, a State Farm agent, at: Office: (910) 395-5252 Email : greg@gregochipa.com

Don’t let Brunswick County children go hungry this season!

HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE benefiting Matthew’s Ministry: Food Changes Lives

Foods will be distributed to Brunswick County students within eleven schools. Our goal is to reach all county schools in 2013!

December 3-21

Drop off non-perishable food items at the following locations: • Brunswick Family Medicine (211, Atlantic Ave.) • Cape Fear Fitness • Coastal Cosmetic Dentistry (Bolivia & OI) • Color Me Carolina • Farm Bureau (River Rd. location) • First Community Bank (downtown Southport) • Geddings and Kleva, Attorneys at Law • Johnson and Moore, Attorneys at Law • Moore St. Market • Oak Island Accomodations • Sally Winey Bears • Island Healing Chiropractic • Nails by Michelle (at Carol’s Mane Attraction) • St. James Community Building

We are always in need of: soups, Chef Boy-R-Dee items, mac & cheese, Ramen noodles, cereal, peanut butter, jelly, pasta sauce, pasta, granola bars, crackers, fruit cups, applesauce.

Proudly sponsored by:

★★★★★ Southport, Oak Island, Boiling Spring Lakes, Bald Head Island

Please, no glass items!

Because the food often travels with small children, plastic containers and pop top lids are preferred.

Matthew’s Ministry A 501(c)(3) non-profit agency www.MatthewsMinistry.com MatthewsMinistry@gmail.com

Monetary donations can be sent to: 5149 Fernwood Dr. Southport, NC 28461

southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 17

homestyle

The Innkeepers’ Destiny The Robert Ruark Inn, steeped in history, will participate in Southport’s Christmas Tour of Homes

S

Linda and Rick Pukenas are now the innkeepers of the Robert Ruark Inn after following a lifelong dream to run a bed-and-breakfast. Photo by Bethany Turner

penDIng A LARge pORTIOn Of THeIR 28-year marriage living just outside of Philadelphia, Linda and Rick Pukenas often ventured to the quaint town of Cape May, New Jersey to escape their day-to-day lives. “It’s a Victorian seaside community, and we fell in love with it,” Linda describes. “We always stayed in bed-and-breakfasts there—and then we got hooked and would only stay in bed-and-breakfasts.”

Linda, who worked in financial marketing, and Rick, whose background is in school administration, both possess a deep-rooted love for the antiquated. Together they almost always owned historic homes, including when they moved to Wake Forest, North Carolina in 2007. “We had family there which was wonderful, but we just never felt connected,” Linda shares. “Southport was always like our little Cape May. It’s got the same charm. It’s historical—for us, that’s huge, and [that it’s] coastal is, too, because we’re boaters and we love anything nautical. It’s just such a nice-size, sweet town.

You can ride your bikes around; the people are so nice.

On the weekends we were always down here. We just wanted to be here.”

But the Pukenases, whose warm and welcoming demeanor explains a lot of why they enjoy the close-knit feel of bed-and-breakfasts, weren’t able to settle for the next few years. Their lives were sidetracked when Linda received an opportunity to work abroad. “I got offered a job by a bank out in Puerto Rico to take care of the Caribbean,” she says, “and we lived in St. Thomas.

Rick took a job as a school principal, and we were there for two years.”

The crime rates are high in the Caribbean, and the lifestyle wasn’t as rewarding for the pair as island living might seem. Knowing they wanted to put their feet down in North Carolina, they returned to the states. “When we came back, we contemplated a lot of different things,” Linda divulges. “It was time for us to ground ourselves.”

As the stars aligned, Linda and Rick finally realized

18 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com

Brunswick County was where they should be. “So many of our friends are here; the water’s here,” she says. “It made sense—we needed to put down roots somewhere— and we figured since we kept coming back here, even if we weren’t smart enough to figure it out the first time, we should look at the historical pattern we followed.”

Their first home in the area was a custom built abode in Oak Island—the one home they’ve ever owned without it having any history. “We tried to make it look old,” Rick laughs, “put old stuff in it, built a vanity from an old dresser.”

“The builder loved carrying that cast-iron tub upstairs!” Linda chimes in. “We were just destined to be old-house people.”

Eventually they ended up in a small home in Southport which Jeff Ward, a respected local contractor, had worked on. “He specialized in old homes,” Rick says.

“He was always a really nice guy. We’d call him up and say, ‘Hey, Jeff, can you come by and take care of some-

The rooms of the Robert Ruark Inn harken to the Victorian era in which it was erected. The late Jeff Ward’s renovations only added value to the home, along with the Pukenases’ décor. Pictured are the living room, newly added kitchen, and an antique from Virginia’s Room. Photo by Bethany Turner

thing for us?’ And he’d say, ‘Sure, no problem.’” Sadly, in early May of 2011, Ward passed away after his shotgun accidentally discharged as he was unloading equipment from his Jeep.

Before his death, Ward bought an historic home on N. Lord Street in Southport in 2008 from a family who’d lived there for 40 years. His renovations included additions to the rear of the home, enlarging the kitchen and more, and completely restoring the home’s Victorian beauty. In 2009 he opened the house as the Robert Ruark Inn—because it once belonged to the famed author’s grandfather—and innkeepers ran the business for Ward.

“Jeff was a very particular builder, a great craftsman,” Rick explains. “He was doing it for himself so there’s probably a lot of extra stuff that he put in it, since he was going to own the inn and eventually sell it. He preserved so many of the historical features of the home.

Anything he added to it, he made sure it carried through so it was consistent.”

Even before the restoration of the ” inn, the Pukenases kept a watchful eye for any bed-and-breakfasts which might appear on the market, even employing a realtor’s help. They’d peruse the listings online to see if any of the inns were going up for sale, though they knew there were not many in the area.

One night the Pukenases joined their friend Lisa Botnick for dinner at Thai by the Sea. “It was the most expensive Thai dinner I ever had,” Linda jokes.

“We’re sitting there eating, and Lisa says, ‘Linda, the Robert Ruark Inn—they lowered the price. I’ve never been inside; I’d love to see it.’ So we looked at it, and then a couple months later, we owned it!”

“It was a huge comfort knowing Jeff Ward had redone this house,” Rick admits. “We knew it would be done right.”

By March 2012, the bed-and-breakfast was reopened by the first-time innkeepers. The house came fully furnished— even to the glassware—and the website and brochures were already complete.

“We only had to add value because we already had the foundation,” Linda says.

“When Jeff died, his father, Roger, was taking care of his estate—and his dad knows everything about the property,” she continues. “Roger always took care of the yard [of the inn] when Jeff owned it, so when Rick and I bought it, he was living in the apartment here. We asked if he wanted to stay, and he said yes. Roger has been a big part of the transition and a big part of the inn, and we consider him family. We’ve been very blessed to have him in our lives. Everyone who knows him loves him.”

Built in 1890, the inn was the home of Captain Edward Adkins, Ruark’s maternal grandfather. As a child, Ruark lived in Wilmington with his parents Robert and Charlotte, but spent all of his summers and holidays in the Southport home. As he grew, Ruark became an internationally renowned writer with international topics, such as his safari hunts in Africa.

He is celebrated as one of the best wild-

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We were just destined to be old-house people.

—Linda Pukenas

“Then when it sold,” Linda says, “it was life and outdoor writers in history.

With a degree in hand from the Uni- to the family who had it for 40 years, and versity of North Carolina and a world of they lived here and finished raising their experiences behind him, Ruark began a children here, and then Jeff bought it column for Field and Stream magazine from them. So there really haven’t been in 1953. These stories detailed Ruark’s that many owners.”

The Pukenas have elevated the stanboyhood, mostly tales of Southport’s breathtaking nature and the importance dards of the beautiful renovation work of Captain Adkins in the child’s life. Sev- Ward applied to this house by making eral of the articles were combined as a personal touches to the inn. Their breakbook, “The Old Man and the Boy.” An fasts are gourmet, cooked by Rick most excerpt recalls what Christmas in South- mornings, and they offer a coffee and tea bar all day. Usually they’ll put out appeport was like for Ruark: “The holiday season was pretty spe- tizers in the afternoon, such as mozzarelcial for me. As soon as school let out, la and tomatoes, or wine and cheese. As about the 20th, I took off for the little well, Rick guides a tour of Southport for town where the Old Man lived, and I guests, which has been a huge success.

“Our love for history, the coast, and didn’t get back to my own city until the day before school started again. For just our love for Southport—we just kept better than two weeks I lived a life like boomeranging back,” Linda finishes. “It I imagine it might have been in the old was just perfect, because our dream was English-squire days, when they hung always to own a bed-and-breakfast, and the halls with holly and it took three this one, of course, had some history to it.”

The Robert Ruark Inn will be one men and a boy to haul in the Yule log.”

“When his grandfather died of cancer of several houses to participate in the during the Depression,” Rick tells, “he’d Southport Historical Society’s 24th spent all of his money at the time on med- annual Christmas Tour of Homes on ical bills—there was no more money left, Sat., Dec., 8th from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Guests will be able to enjoy the archiand the house went back to the bank.”

Captain Adkins, for which one of the tecture and aesthetic of these unique inn’s rooms is named (as well as Robert abodes, as well as their mirthful and Ruark Room, Charlotte’s Room, and Vir- elegant holiday décor. Pre-sale tickginia’s Room, after Ruark’s wife), owed ets are $10, available at Southport $2,800 on the home. “They knew the Visitors Center, Southport-Oak Isbanker,” Rick continues, “and the bank- land Area Chamber of Commerce, er told Robert, ‘Listen, if you ever want Franklin Square Gallery and The Latto buy it back, I’ll sell it to you for what’s imer House in Wilmington. For more owed. So he bought it in 1948 for $2,800.” information, call 457-7927. southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 19

Classified Ads ~ up to 50 words only $15 per month Photo Ads ~ up to 50 words $20 per month

Call Susie Riddle at 910-791-0688 to place your ad today.

Autos

2004 Ford F350 Super Duty - 4 DR Crew Cab. 2 Wheel Drive 5.4 liter V8, 8 foot bed with liner. Auto trans, A/C, P/S, P/B 68,400 mi. Reduced to $9K. 910-398-3740

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Boats 86 SEA RAY Sundancer 250 w/2003 Tandem trailer, $5000 firm. Call 910-232-3101.

Real Estate

2013 170 Triumph Skiff with 70hp Yamaha with 6 year warr., trailer, live well, life time warranty on hull made of roplene a space age material, very little up keep. Can be seen at Blackbarry Marine Southport. 910-457-0667 Jonnie or David

2013 170 Skiff, 90hp Yamaha four stroke with 6 year warranty, trailer, live well, fuel water seperator, made of roplene the strongest boat material except steel with lifetime warranty on hull, user friendly boat.

Can be seen at Blackbarry Marine Southport NC 1-910-457-0667.

306 E. 8th Street, Southport, NC. Sweet Retreat right in the heart of Southport. $377,500! This elegant home offers 3 well sized bedrooms & 3 full baths with an additional room & full bath in the pool house/mother-in-law suite. In-ground pool w/beautiful landscaping.

Sits on large lot in very private setting, including great courtyard out front; hardwood and tile floors and many, many upgrades.

Come and visit! This property is listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., Realtors.

Call Elvira Gilbert at 910-619-4087

20 southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com

$165,900 ~ 134 NW 7th St, OKI, 3BD, 2BA 1270sqft.

Enjoy this cozy cottage rocking on your front porch.You can be on the beach in minutes!

MLS# 663890. Call Rob Dooley 910-409-1111

312 E West Street - 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath, $275,000. One of the last Southport Cottages.

Owner has kept it close to original condition.

Quaint kitchen with original sink. Original pine floors, beadboard ceilings, sideporch, clawfoot tub, double parlors, and 2 fireplaces. Large lot with beautiful trees. CallVerilyn McKee, (910)470-0527.

MLS #664434

614-D West Brown Street - The Village, $182,999. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bath. Gorgeous fully furnished two bedroom condo within easy walking distance to the marina. Enjoy living on one level with elevator access from parking area and outside storage closet.

Call Sherol Lappala, (910) 363-7422. MLS#667846 101 NE 24th Street, Oak Island, NC ~ Bright & open beach house on Oak Island listed at $179,900. Close to beach walk over & recreational center.

Large deck & huge space under house for parking.

Owner is NC Real Estate Agent. Call Elvira Gilbert at 910-619-4087 Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., Realtors.

4970 Northhampton Drive ~ $213,500 REDUCED. Located in Carolina Place. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 home is just a short walk to the community pool. Great location to beach, shops and restaurants.View of wildlife canal. 910-798-1078.

202 North Rhett Street (Historic Southport) 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths. $499,000.

Coastal contemporary home built in 2008 with master on the first level. Hardwood floors throughout with wood-wrapped walls and custom built-ins. Double front porches shaded by oaks. Screened porch offers views of the historic Smithville Burying Grounds and the Cape Fear River. This is a beautiful home full of custom details MLS #667284.

Call 910-540-5043

407 West Brown Street (Historic Southport) - J.L. Phelps House.

Circa 1910, renovated 2002. $535,000. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath, 1562 sq.ft.

Main House, 1240 sq.ft.

Garage/Outdoor Living Area, 75.50x160 Lot Size.

This home features all hardwood floors a very large lot and detached garage/outdoor living area complete with a covered porch. Please contact our office to make an appointment to see this listing, (910) 457-7676.

316 West Moore Street - Circa 1897, 3 bedroom, 2 bath. $599,000. Enjoy the views of the Old Yacht Basin, the Cape Fear River, and the ICW. Remodeled and reframed in 2009. Built with all top quality materials. Call Kim Anne, (910)5231222. MLS# 660594

6063 Sullivans Ridge Road-Harbor Oaks. 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths. $374,900. This spacious charming custom built home offers special features unending: Spacious front porch, well landscaped yard, open living with hardwood floors, hand carved columns and custom built-ins. The well organized kitchen has cherry cabinets and sunlit eat-in area.

A fourth bedroom/bonus room with a full bath and walk-in closet awaits your long term guests. Call Harley Lemons (910) 3527174. MLS# 665292 8 LOTS in Boiling Springs Lake and one manufactured home.

City Water. $180,000.

Serious inq. only. 910465-7536.

spottings

Residents enjoy a special wine dinner at Mr. Pâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro on Tuesday, November13th. The meals were prepared by Chef Virginia Phipps-Fouch and wines were selected by Kelly Kinstrey of Empire Distributing. Photo courtesy of Chris Smith, general manager.

Seth Robbins, of Oak Island Accommodations and the Senior Vice President of the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce, and Jennifer Moore, of First Citizens Bank in Oak Island, mix it up at the Tri-Chamber After Hours networking event held Thursday, November 15th. Photo courtesy of the chamber.

E-mail pictures to bethany@southportmag.com for consideration in our next issue. Then pick up the Jan. edition or go to www.southportmag.com to see if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been spotted! southport magazine / december 2012 / www.southportmag.com 21

the NeWsDay crossWorD Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)

rUmor has It: a hint to take literally

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reach stan Newman at P.o. box 69, massapequa Park, Ny 11762, or at www.stanXwords.com

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coloring 4 kids November 2012 737 3rd street hermosa beach, ca 90254 ators crosswordsyndiCate answers Don’t wait ‘til the next issue!

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occasions dec 1 Pink Heals Fire Truck Visit

12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

McNeill and Company 6102 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island

“Care to Wear Pink” brings love and hope to communities around the country in the form of pink fire trucks and a national tour. The Guardians of the Ribbon, dressed in pink, bring the tour to help raise money and awareness for the non-profit entities that help women in their city and state.

In addition, this non-profit supports and helps other non-profit programs raise money by bringing the pink fire trucks to various fund raisers to assist in the efforts at no charge to the organization. As Guardians of The Ribbon, our goal is to spread the “Cares Enough to Wear Pink” campaign until all are in pink shirts.

dec 7

dec 4 Brunswick Civil War Round Table

6:30 p.m. registration Trinity United Methodist Church 209 E. Nash St., Southport (across from the Southport Post Office)

Native Virginian and popular Civil War historian, speaker, docent and reenactor Ron Beavers will be the guest speaker at this monthly meeting. His topic is entitled, “Civil War Logistics.”

His special interest is how both sides used logistics and the railroads during the Civil War. Everyone is welcome.

The fee for guests is $5 which can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues. For more information, contact Wally Rueckel at 253-7382, or wrueckel@questor.com. www.brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com.

First Friday Gallery Walk 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Franklin Square Gallery 130 E. West St., Southport

‘Why Not Stitch,’ a needlepoint group from Southport, will display their latest holiday work along with holiday crafts, paintings and pottery by members of Associated Artists of Southport during the monthly Gallery Walk and reception at Franklin Square Gallery this month. Also visit Art @ 211 The Ricky Evans Gallery, Lantana’s Gallery, Howe Outrageous & Southport’s Silver Coast Winery & Gallery. Public is invited to browse and shop. Admission is free. Contact: 457-5450.

dec 8 Old Brunswick County Jail Tours 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Corner of Nash and Rhett streets, Southport

Southport Historical Society opens up the old Brunswick County Jail and will give tours. View original jail cells and other exhibits. Admission is free but donations are accepted. 457-7927.

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dec 10 dec 7-8, 14-16 ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’

Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.

Sun., 3 p.m.

Playhouse 211 4320-100 Southport-Supply Rd., St. James

Stage play by Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom, based on the bestselling novel by Albom. ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ is the autobiographical story of Albom, an accomplished journalist driven solely by his career, and Morrie Schwartz, his former college professor. Sixteen years after graduation, Mitch happens to catch Morrie’s appearance on a television news program and learns that his old professor is battling Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Mitch is reunited with Morrie, and what starts as a simple visit turns into a weekly pilgrimage and a last class in the meaning of life. Tickets $15$20 available at www.playhouse211. com. (910) 200-7785

Historical Southport Bicycle Tours 10 a.m.

The Adventure Kayak Company, Inc. 807-A N. Howe St., Southport

Looking for things to do around the holidays to entertain your family and friends? The Adventure Kayak Company. Inc. has a variety of kayak tours on local salt marsh creeks and black water rivers. Also, on our outdoor adventure fun list are Historical Southport bicycle tours. Either paddling or peddling is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, learn about our unique coastal environment and local history. Bring your own bicycle and helmet and join the fun for $15.00; or $20.00 tour fee including use of a bicycle and helmet. Limited number of bicycles available for rent. Additional tours available upon request on Sunday and Monday mornings during the fall with four, or more participants—please call 454-0607 for more information.

nov 17-18

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