February 2024 Leland Magazine

www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 1

STAFF EDITOR

IN THIS ISSUE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carla Edstrom

Jeffrey Stites

Jan Morgan-Swegle

editor@lelandmag.com

Joe Jancsurak

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Patricia Langer Louise Sheffield-Baccarny

Lisa P. Stites

Lisa P. Stites

lisa@southportmag.com

Jeffrey Stites

LEAD DESIGNER

PUBLISHER & SALES

Liz Brinker

Jeffrey Stites

lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com

jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

CONSULTANT

Chuck and Sue Cothran

Kris Beasley

Leland Magazine is published once a month by Live Oak Media.

The opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of the staff.

Annual Subscription: $45 email jeff@liveoakmediainc.com 910-471-7741 Leland Magazine PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461 www.lelandmag.com email jeff@liveoakmediainc.com 910-471-7741

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W

The Love Issue

elcome to the Love issue! In the gray days of February, Valentine’s Day reminds us of our love of many things — our family, our friends, and especially living in a place with temperatures in the upper 60s in the end of January! This month, we have a story on a lovely seamstress who deigns even lovelier bridal gowns, right here in Brunswick County, and a feature on The Barn at Rock Creek, a picturesque, family-run event venue that’s the perfect rustic backdrop for weddings and other celebrations.

There’s also a story about how the love of family history and local Gullah Geechee culture grew into the NC Rice Festival. We also can’t miss an opportunity to plug our local businesses, especially with the closure of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge. It’s a great chance to try that restaurant you’ve been meaning to get to and to shop local for flowers, candy and other treats for your sweetie.

So whatever you do this month, get out there and find a new reason to love where you live!

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Business Feature

A Legacy Of Love The Barn At Rock Creek Events Center

STORY BY JANET MORGAN-SWEGLE PHOTOS BY TONY SWEGLE

R

enowned British poet Robert Browning said, in part, “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made.” It seems that most of us are familiar with the first line of that poem, but it’s the second line that illustrates the lasting love that couples dream of on their wedding day. What could be better than exploring and building your entire life with the person with whom you who shared the vows of marriage?

In this, the “love” month of February, it’s estimated that approximately 220,000 people across the country will get engaged on Valentine’s Day (second only to Christmas) — and that means 220,000 weddings.

The wedding industry in the United States has a market size of $70.3 billion (reported in 2021) and experts suggest that the average bride will spend $30,000 on her wedding. According to “The Knot, Real Weddings Study,” in 2022, the average bride spent $1,900 on her dress alone.

After the date and the dress and the guest list, the biggest decision a couple needs to make is where to have the wedding reception, or wedding and reception.

Couples in this area are particularly lucky to have access to “The Barn at Rock Creek,” located at 5900 Rock Creek Road NE in Le-

land.

Lesley Padgett, co-owner of The Barn said “In the beginning of 2012, my family decided to no longer farm the land and we were planning to host our first family wedding. After seeing the cost of bringing all of the rentals in, it grew into a much bigger project and that is when the idea of making The Barn a wedding venue came about.”

But The Barn is more than just a nice place to have a wedding/wedding reception.

“The Barn is 13 acres right smack dab in the middle of the country. “There is no noise, and no neighbors,” Lesley explained. The wooded setting, mostly of natural Cypress trees, offers a rustic but elegant feel for weddings or any type of celebration. The Barn facility and the open-air Pavilion, which has a large stone fireplace, overlook a pond,

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which is great for pictures, and they have 2,400 square feet of indoor space with 13 crystal chandeliers.

“We are a family-owned business, a very tight-knit one at that,” Lesley said. “We truly believe that each couple and their families become a part of our family throughout the planning process. I grew up surrounded

by Southern hospitality and I want every couple to feel at home when they choose The Barn as the place where they want to start their lives together.”

Being constantly around happy couples has to be a rewarding job, but hosting multiple weddings every year has to be taxing.

Lesley and her team don’t see it that way.

“I enjoy what I do,” she said. “For the first seven years of being in business, I still had a full-time career as well as running The Barn. I had to make the difficult decision between a career that I absolutely loved and starting a new career that I was beginning to love just as much. I made that decision solely based on the location and atmosphere of the Barn. The Barn is peaceful, and I get to meet the most

incredible people that have since become my family.”

Lesley describes herself as a “Winnabowian” born and raised in Brunswick County.

“I was never one to want to go to college and move away,” she said. “I love the legacy that my family started here many years ago. Both of my parents met in Brunswick County, in high school. It is a special place to grow up and I am so fortunate to be able to call this area home.”

Like many businesses, The Barn wasn’t supposed to become the successful venture that it has become. Laughing, Lesley said, “The Barn was never the plan. The original thought was after the family wedding, we would use it for our family events.

But that’s not how it played out. I was getting phone calls every week from peo-

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Business Feature

ple asking about renting our property for their parties and celebrations. I could not even keep up with the demand. We quickly realized that The Barn was a new family business opportunity right in front of us — literally, in our own backyard. Since then, we have hosted hundreds of weddings and special events. The Barn is the best family business that we did not know we had or needed.”

It takes a lot of support to build and maintain a successful business. “For me, it is about family and community. The support our community has shown us has been unwavering. It really is a beautiful thing,” Lesley said. “This property is so much more to me than just a piece of land that was purchased for a business venture.

This land, this barn and this business, have history. I think it is important to remember where you came from. My g r a n d f a t h e r, Robert “Bob” Ward, was the original owner of this land. He started our legacy in this county, and when he is mentioned, people know exactly who you are talking about. My fam-

ily and I strive to continue his legacy.”

The Barn also provides career opportunities in the Leland area. “We like to host around 50 weddings a year, but we have done as many as 75. There are several of us that are full-time employees. We run the day-to-day operations and respond to inquiries via email and phone,” Lesley said.

“My family is also very involved in helping us maintain The Barn. During our busy season, we hire seasonal employees that help ensure all of our events run smoothly. On an average wedding day, there can be anywhere from four to eight employees who help out with the event and the venue. It takes a village.”

Anyone who has planned a wedding knows that there are many moving parts

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that have to be arranged to ensure a beautiful and successful event. “Communication is key,” Lesley said. “We spend most of our time during the week leading up to a wedding in the office going over every little detail. This includes meetings with our staff, vendors, and those involved in each event.”

Any wedding day is a special day, but a Valentine’s Day wedding is even more so.

Lesley told us, “In the past, Valentine’s Day weddings have been small and intimate; and they are some of our favorite styles of wedding. They are just so personable. This year, we do not have a Valentine’s Day wedding booked, but we are hosting an open house on Saturday, Feb. 17 for all of the couples that just got engaged over the holidays.”

If you are planning a special event or a wedding, give serious consideration to hosting

it at The Barn. Visit The Barn’s website, http://www.thebarnatrockcreek.com/ calendarofevents/open-house-at-thebarn. Or, give Lesley and her team a call at 910-253-4012.

Remember, when you find that special person to grow old with, one of the most romantic memories you will both share is your wedding day. Make it a day to remember at The Barn.

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Friends Of LCAC

COMMUNITY

Supporting Leland’s Arts And Culture Life

STORY BY JOE JANCSURAK CULTURAL ART CENTER

PHOTOS BY FRIENDS OF LELAND

T

he arts can, and do, bring communities together. Nowhere is that truer than here in Brunswick County, home to the Leland Cultural Arts Center (LCAC) where children, teens and adults regularly participate in myriad offerings that include ballet, swing and tap dance classes; music lessons for those learning to play the piano, violin, viola and cello; and drawing, painting, photography and pottery offerings. (For a complete list of offerings, including fitness and social activities, check out the CAPE Activity Guide at http:// tinyurl.com/mxf243e.)

For many residents, the cost is affordable and well worth it. But for some, such offerings are cost prohibitive. That’s where the Friends of the Cultural Arts Center (FLCAC) comes in. Formed a few years prior to the opening of the LCAC in 2015, the volunteer group strives to provide “scholarships” to residents, children and adults,

in need of a helping hand and eager to take a class.

Heading the organization as president is Leland resident Doris Jean Young, a retired paralegal and artist (acrylics, watercolors and oils) with a booth at Sandalwood Shoppes in Leland. Together with five board

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FLCAC board members, left to right: Doris Young, president; Connie Reeves, vice president; Deni Sindel, secretary; and Jan College, treasurer.

members and several volunteers, Young oversees fundraising efforts that in 2023 included a doo-wop dinner dance and two watercolor workshops. The money raised last year made possible five scholarships for class registrations. Past fundraising efforts also included fashion shows/tea socials and a trivia silent auction event.

Since its formation in 2012, FLCAC has

awarded 53 scholarships. It also funds annual student-art monetary awards.

In addition to the scholarships, FLCAC events have raised funds for the purchase of LCAC equipment and resources, including display panels, gallery pedestals, stained-glass equipment, a slab roller for pottery classes, a food-warming oven and a grand piano.

COMMUNITY

Master watercolorist and pianist Mark Polomchak shown at the grand piano purchased with FLCAC funds.

“Our mission,” says Young, “is to assume responsibility for fundraising to support the development, maintenance and overall success of LCAC programs and projects and to provide opportunities for those who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford class or event.”

Possible fundraising events for the new year include a trivia/auction night and a themed tea social.

Readers interested in applying for a scholarship can access the form at www.friendslcac.org/scholarships. And for volunteer opportunities, www.friendslcac.org/contact-us.

Why volunteer? “It’s a great opportunity to serve the community and fill an important budgetary gap,” says Young. “We’re always looking for individuals wishing to put their time and talents to good use.”

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COMMUNITY

Calling All Birders

Help With The 2024 National Bird Count STORY BY LISA STITES, PHOTO BY JEFFREY STITES

T

he 2024 Bird Count is Feb. 16-19, and volunteers are needed to help. Individuals and groups can participate, and it is as easy as finding a spot to watch birds, making a list of what you see and providing the info you collect online.

Find a spot where birds are likely to be, or even just watch a bird feeder in your yard.

Watch birds for at least 15 minutes.

Make a checklist recording the total number of every bird that you see or hear that you know how to identify.

The Merlin phone app can help you identify birds by song or with pictures. Fill out your checklists and

submit them to the eBird website at ebird.org, or download the bird app.

There may also be in person or virtual events, though details on any such programs were not yet available at press time.

There are also additional resources available for educators who want to get their students involved.

According to www.birdcount.org, people from 202 countries participated in the 2023 count and recorded 2/3 of the world’s known species.

Visit https://scienceacrossnc.org/events/ birds/ for more information.

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Fairy Godmother

Community

Sinderellas Rockefellas Spins Fairy Tales Into Reality For Brunswick County Brides STORY BY PATRICIA LANGER, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

I

n the classic Disney movie “Cinderella,” an ordinary young woman is transformed into a beautiful princess with just the flick of a wand by her fairy godmother. In reality, there might be a bit more involved in that sort of transformation. Measurements, pattern making, fittings, and many hours of tedious sewing, for starters. But still, it is possible, and a real-life fairy godmother lives in our midst, giving brides-to-be their very own Cinderella moment by creating the wedding gown of their dreams. Samantha Redfern, brilliant designer and seamstress, is the owner of Sinderellas Rockefellas bridal boutique in Southport, and she wants every bride to “feel as beautiful as you are!”

Samantha Redfern has been creating unique, custom fit, bridal gowns for all types of brides since she began her homebased business in the spring of 2020. Her setup is similar to any other bridal boutique.

A room in the front of the house is designed for brides to model gowns. Standing on a pedestal, surrounded by tall mirrors, they can see all the beautiful dress details from every angle. There’s plenty of comfy seating for friends and family, who are encouraged to come. The bright space is great for photos, complete with the ubiquitous “I said YES to the dress” sign for Instagram and Facebook posts.

A room in the back of the house serves as a spacious dressing room, all four walls lined with racks of gorgeous sample gowns.

(I felt like I was in a fairy tale during this interview, surrounded by so many beautiful, flowy dresses!) Sinderellas carries samples to fit all body shapes and sizes.

Brides don’t have to struggle holding up a dress that’s way to big, or worse yet, feel embarrassed trying on a gown several sizes too small.

Gowns range from trendy to classic, glitzy to understated, casual to elegant. Many of the dresses have linings in hues of gray, blush, or champagne that highlight the exquisite lace and beadwork. All of the gowns are made with high quality materials. Prices range from $1,500 to just less than $4,700.

Samantha’s two-car garage has

been converted into the “engine room” were she works her magic with commercial sewing machines, cutting tables, and mannequins. She designs all the gowns herself, then sends the materials out to be sewn at a garment factory in California. Samantha assigns a reference number to each gown she designs and when a particular style is purchased for the first time, she names the gown after the bride who bought it. Talk about a fairy tale!

From Fashion Executive to Hollywood Costumes and Reality TV Samantha Redfern is cheerful, chatty and utterly unpretentious. But don’t let her kind nature or her cozy home-based business fool you. This designer has more credentials than most! Before moving to the United States from England in 2009, Samantha had

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an amazing career in the fashion industry.

After graduating from fashion college, she began her career path working in a sewing factory as a garment technologist. Although some in the fashion industry snub their noses at factory sewers, Samantha says that experience was invaluable and she credits it for her design and sewing expertise.

She moved up the ranks quickly as a lingerie and nightwear designer. “I always loved lace,” she explained. And she travelled around the globe visiting offshore factories and attending fashion shows.

Eventually, she became a design executive with a major manufacturer for the British retailer Marks & Spencer, enjoying a posh office on Baker Street in London. But when Samantha moved to the United States, she was discouraged with her attempts to break into the American fashion industry. She settled with a job as a seamstress, mainly doing alterations, while raising her children.

Clearly, however, she was not an ordinary seamstress, but one whose talents garnered notice in the fashion world, both locally and beyond.

When I asked Samantha about the autographed pictures of movie stars that line her hallway, she told me that she worked on costume production for the 2014 movie Safe Haven. She designed several outfits for Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough’s charac-

ters.

“I made the red bikini Julianne Hough wore in that movie! She was lovely to work with,” Samantha recalled.

Samantha said she had her good friend, Betsy Blee, the first female to pilot the Bald Head Ferry, to thank for that job. Betsy was hired by producers of “Safe Haven” to provide water shuttle service for the cast and crew during filming. When she overheard a conversation about the need for garment makers, she introduced them to Samantha Redfern.

That same year, Samantha was selected to appear as an industry professional on the Lifetime Channel’s reality television show “The 24-Hour Catwalk.”

The show, which ran 10 episodes in 2012, featured four contestants who competed to design three outfits in just 24 hours, working with a team of sewers.

Smantha’s skills as a sewer were highlighted frequently on the show, and by the end of filming, fashion designer Cynthia Rowley, one of the judges, offered her a job in New Your City As life would have it,

Community however, the timing was all wrong. Samantha and her family were living in Ohio and her three children had active lives that she did not want to disrupt. Looking back, she has no regrets and says she fully enjoyed her 15 minutes of tv fame.

“It was terrific! I loved it!”

Samantha also worked on costumes for the 2016 movie “Providence,” after being approached by film scouts who noticed her unique sportswear at a spring market in Franklin Park. In addition to her bridal business, Samantha has her own line of sportswear called Immi Activewear USA. She designs flattering yet practical clothing for running, golfing, yoga, pickleball, and more.

Her colorful skorts have hidden pockets to hold keys, credit cards and water bottles, eliminating the need for fanny packs (thank goodness!) Immi Activewear is sold locally at Crossroads, a Gathering Place in Oak Island and on Facebook.

Creating a Dream

The seed money for Sinderellas came from an unexpected inheritance when Samantha’s sister died suddenly in 2019, the same year she lost her mother to cancer. After overcoming her shock and grief, Samantha vowed to make something good come from the tragedy.

“I wanted to do something with the money that would make people happy. Giving brides their dream gown is a wonderful way to honor my mum and my sister.”

Listening to Samantha tell me how she

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COMMUNITY

approaches each bride, I can only imagine how happy she makes them feel. With her charming British accent and equally charming personality, I suggest that she really could be a fairy godmother.

“My brides call me Mary Poppins!” she

responds with pleasure.

Buying a gown from Sinderellas is personalized experience, very different from the fancy boutiques. There are no intimidating sales ladies showing you gowns way over your budget or dresses that look nothing like your style. An appointment at Sinderellas lasts about 2-3 hours and goes something like this: Samantha sits down with the bride to discuss what type of wedding she is planning and what style gown she thinks she wants. Samantha asks about the venue, the theme, the season and the color scheme. Then she considers what style and fit the bride is looking for. Does she want lots of glitz and sparkle, or something more serene and

elegant? A full skirt or a mermaid tail?

Samantha takes her time until she thinks she knows how each bride envisions herself on her wedding day. Then she asks about budget to avoid any awkwardness or unnecessary heartbreak.

Once she’s got it, she selects five to six sample gowns for the future bride to try on.

“Most brides pick one of the first three gowns I select and never get to the rest,” Samantha told me proudly.

At Sinderellas, brides can make tweaks to a sample gown if they want something slightly different.

“Sometimes a bride loves a particular gown, but wishes it had sleeves or more lace or a different neckline. I can do all that.”

Samantha reminds each bride that comfort and fit is equally as important as appearance when considering gowns.

“I tell them they need to consider how they feel in a gown, since they won’t be standing still at their wedding.

They’ll be talking to guests, taking pictures, eating and dancing.”

Once the dress is chosen, Samantha takes careful measurements to create a custom fit dress pattern, which she then sends to a sewing shop in California.

When the gown comes in, it usually doesn’t

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require any alterations, saving brides a big expense. The only thing left for Samantha to do at that point is creates the bustle in the back.

Growth Leads to Expansion Sinderella’s has grown considerably over the last few years, from the sale of four gowns in its first year to 16 in 2023. This year is off to a robust start, with 10 gowns commissioned for spring. The success has propelled Samantha to secure a retail shop on Long Beach Road, which she hopes to open in a few months. The larger space will allow her to carry more dress samples and will increase business visibility. Sinderellas Rockefellas will also have a satellite location on Southport-Supply Road that will carry tuxedo rentals, as well as discontinued bridal gowns at sale prices. Samantha hopes to hire some much-needed help as her business expands, but she has no intention of

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changing the way she operates. Sinderellas Rockefellas will continue to offer a uniquely personal experience, creating custom-fit gowns and giving each bride her very own Cinderella story.

For more information, call Samantha Redfern at 910-363-4403 or visit Sinderellas Rockefellas on Facebook.

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HISTORY

Forgotten Battlefield Cape Fear Civil War Round Table Meeting STORY CONTRIBUTED

T

he February meeting of the Cape Fear Civil War Round Table features a presentation by Prof. Chris Mackowski, one of the most engaging and energetic speakers on the national Civil War circuit. He will focus on the subject of one of his recent books, “The Battle of Jackson: May 14, 1863,” published in 2022. The presentation is scheduled for Thursday evening, Feb. 8, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in midtown Wilmington near Independence Mall. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the meeting begins at 7 p.m.

Chris Mackowski, Ph.D., is the editor-in-chief and co-founder of Emerging Civil War and the series editor of the award-winning “Emerging Civil War”series, published by Savas Beatie.

Chris is a writing professor in the Jandoli School of Communication at St. Bonaventure University in New York, where he also serves as associate dean for undergraduate programs. Chris is also historian-in-residence at Stevenson Ridge, a historic property on the Spotsylvania battlefield in central Virginia.

He has worked as a historian for the National Park Service at Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, where he gives tours at four major Civil War battlefields (Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania), as well as at the building where Stonewall Jackson died.

Chris has authored or co-authored more than 25 books, edited a half-dozen essay collections on the Civil War, and his articles have appeared in all the major Civil War magazines. Chris serves as vice president on the board of directors for the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust, he serves on the advisory board of the Civil War Roundtable Congress and the Brunswick (NC) Civil War Roundtable— the largest in the country. He is also a member of the Antietam Institute and the U. S. Grant Homestead Association. In 2023, he was honored with the Houston Civil War Round Table’s Frank Vandiver Award and also selected as the Copie Hill Fellow at the American Battlefield Trust.

Although Chris grew up in northwestern Pennsylvania and earned his Bachelors degree in Communications at the University of Pittsburgh, he describes himself as a “Stonewall Jackson fanboy,” and says that his fascination with the acclaimed Confederate general was his doorway into study of the Civil War. His book about the Battle of Jackson is dedicated to his eldest son, Jackson.

He also notes “I am a huge believer in the idea that battlefields teach us something about our history that we can’t learn in any other way, so preserving those battlefields is vital.” Unfortunately, as Dr. Mackowski notes in his book, the National Park Service assessment of Jackson’s core battlefield areas overlays atop a busy state capital, with virtually no preserved space.

Jackson, Mississippi, was the third Confederate state capital to fall to Union forces. When Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant captured the important rail junction in May 1863, however, he did so almost as an afterthought. Drawing on dozens of primary sources, contextualized by the latest scholarship on Grant’s Vicksburg campaign, “The Battle of Jackson, Mississippi, May 14, 1863,” offers the most comprehensive account ever published on the fall of the Magnolia State’s capital during Grant’s inexorable march on Vicksburg.

Grant had his eyes set not on Jackson but on Vicksburg, the “Gibraltar of the

Confederacy,” strategically located on the Mississippi River the invaluable prize that had eluded him for the better part of a year. Vicksburg is located about half way between Memphis, Tennessee, to the north, and New Orleans to the south. To get at Vicksburg, Grant finally marched south on the far side of the Mississippi River and crossed onto Mississippi soil to approach Vicksburg by land from the east. As he drove a wedge between Confederate General John Pemberton to the west, a chance encounter with Confederates at Raymond alerted him to a potential threat massing farther east in Jackson under the leadership of General Joseph E. Johnston, one of the Confederacy’s most respected field officers. Jackson is about 40 miles east of Vicksburg.

Mississippi was also the home of Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederacy. In addition to being the state capital, Jackson was a vital transportation and communications hub and a major Confederate industrial center, and its fall removed vital logistical support for the Southern army holding Vicksburg. “It is hard to understand why most works on the Vicksburg campaign devote but few pages to the battle of Jackson” Terrence Winschel, retired historian of Vicksburg National Military Park, has written.

Grant turned on a dime and made for Jackson to confront the growing danger.

He had no way of knowing that Johnston was already planning to abandon the vital state capital. The Southern general’s behavior has long puzzled historians, and some believe his stint in Jackson was the nadir of his long career.

The loss of Jackson isolated Vicksburg and helped set up a major confrontation between Federal and Confederate forces a few days later at Champion Hill in one of the most decisive battles of the war. The capital’s fall demonstrated that Grant could march into Jefferson Davis’ home

state and move about with impunity, and not even an acclaimed military leader like Joe Johnston could stop him.

Most people interested in Civil War military history focus their attention on the titanic contest between the Union’s Army of the Potomac and the Confederacy’s Army of Northern Virginia in the Eastern Theater, but Grant’s Vicksburg campaign, especially the movement of his army from the crossing of the Mississippi River to the gates of Vicksburg is often viewed as the most “bold and masterly” in the Civil War, according to one of his opposing generals, Stephen Dill Lee. Historian Donald L. Miller in his volume on Vicksburg, wrote, “It was a Civil War blitzkrieg. In 18 days Grant’s army had marched nearly 200 miles; won five battles—four in six days; inflicted a loss of 5,787 killed, wounded, and missing; compelled the abandonment two Confederated strongholds…captured the capital of Mississippi,” and pushed the opposing army into a confined space where a siege would result in an inevitable victory for the Union.

The meeting will be held in Elebash Hall at the rear of St. John’s Episcopal at 1219 Forest Hills Drive in Wilmington.

The church parking lot and entrance to the meeting room is easily accessed via Park Avenue off of Independence Boulevard. For more information about membership in the Cape Fear Civil War Round Table, go to http://www.cfcwrt. org and pick “Join/Rejoin.” See you there!

www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 19

Art Beat

Caroline Brizzolara

Jersey. I loved it. But working as an attorney permits little time for avocation, and my love for art-making fell by the wayside.”

Celebrating The Magic Of Light STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

T

he magical collaboration between living by the coast and being an artist is genuine. We are all drawn here to the beauty of nature, and many of us are caught in the net and move here permanently. There is so much in nature on the coast that quickly returns us to a child-like place of awe and wonder. We are easily influenced by the ocean’s ever-changing beauty and immense forceful presence. “The biggest influence on my work right now is the light here near the coast,” said Caroline Brizzolara, a local fine artist. “The sky seems huge here. The way the light hits the water, the sand, the marsh, the woods, the horizon — even the way it operates in still life and figurative studies — it’s all visually compelling to me,” said many years, and she is thrilled to be able to make art a priority once again in reBrizzolara.

As a lifelong artist originally from Manhattan and the New Jersey suburbs, she always resided close to the city until she moved to St. James six years ago. She and her husband relocated here for a better quality of life after retiring, and they found it. Brizzolara spends a lot of her time these days being very observant and attuned to nature and what is happening all around her. Her keen observations are often the subject of her fine art paintings. “I’ve been painting and drawing since I was a child. I remember see-

ing Disney’s ‘Fantasia’ in a movie theater when I was about 5 years old and drawing colorful little fairy creatures for weeks afterward. Drawing was something that always came naturally to me, but in college and graduate school, I really learned how to see. Close observation of the natural world still informs what I paint, even when the final image veers toward abstraction,” she said.

“Paying visual attention and seeing the world around me has always been how I get moved to paint. I always try to have my camera with me because I often spy ideas for painting while I’m outside, walking, riding in a car, doing yard work, and being out and about. While picking up pine cones after the last storm, for instance, I discovered that pine cones start out as tiny, perfect, bluish little conical things clustered in the crook of a pine branch. They may pop up in an image soon,” she said.

Her art took the back seat to her busy career for

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tirement. “I took art classes all through grammar and high school. In college, I majored in art and minored in art history, eventually earning a master’s degree in painting, with forays into photography, lithography, and pottery. I then taught studio art and advanced placement art history at the high school level in New Jersey for almost two decades,” she said. “Teaching was rewarding but draining, and it wasn’t financially sound for me. By the time I reached my 30s, I knew I needed a career change and found it in the legal profession. For the next 20-plus years, I studied and practiced law at a mid-sized law firm in New

Working primarily with pastels and acrylics these days, Brizzolara has a straightforward method and process in her painting approach. “If I’m working from life, I don’t do much preliminary drawing. I just put color down because I’ve learned to trust myself that way. But if I’m painting abstractly, it’s a different way of working and a challenge. I force myself to start by letting accidents happen. Then I work to ‘make good’ on those accidents, developing color, line, composition, value, texture, and marks to create the image, bit by bit and layer by layer,” said Brizzolara. “My ‘favorite’ piece is the last thing I did that I’m happy with, so it changes all the time.

Right now, I’m loving a little abstract painting that I did on a lark, which turned out to be an exciting little explosion of light and color. But I also love my marsh paintings, seascapes, and pet portraits.”

Brizzolara is a member of The Associated Artists of Southport and shows her work at Franklin Square Gallery in downtown Southport. “I will be exhibiting in the Spring Show at Franklin Square Gallery and other shows there throughout the year,” she Tour said.Airli includin “I’ve also shown work at the Leland Gard Cultural Arts Center and the Wilmington Art Association’s North Carolina Azalea Festival art show and hope to Purchase tick do so again this year. A small group www.capefeargar of local fine artists and I will also be or at hosting our second annual Art-Full All Home show at the St. James Commu-in B Rickyyear, Evans nity Center, planned for later this Sweet where people can come meet me andNec Tickets in willaalso b my colleagues and view our work and in most of smaller, more personal setting.”

2024 A

“Anyone interested in seeing my work or in commissioning a piece can visit my website at www.carolinebrizzolarafineart.com, where my paint-

ings and prints are always available, or take a look at my Instagram page, @carolinenc77. And I can always be reached by email at caroline@carolinebrizzolara. com.”

Cape Fear Garden Club Azalea Garden Tour

ie Gardens as well as 10 private gardens, ng a trolley tour of four "Secret Gardens" dens are open 10 am - 5 pm each day Sunday features an Art Sale

kets in advance online at: rdenclub.org , until March 29 t these retailers: Bloom • Southport s Art Gallery • Southport ctar’s Florist • Leland

be available at the trolley stop the gardens during the tour

www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 21

www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 22

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Community

Chefs of Brunswick Sample Food From Local Restaurants

STORY BY MCKENZIE BARWICK, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

A

fter a long four-year hiatus, the second annual Chefs of Brunswick event will have area restauranteurs firing up the kitchens again on Feb. 24, offering tasty dishes and beverages from 5-9 pm.

The event is organized by the Southport Rotary Club as a fundraiser for local charities, and was first held in 2019 right before the pandemic changed the world. Former club president Shawn Braswell said there are a few changes in store for everyone this year.

Approximately 20 local food vendors participate, as well as six beverage vendors, including beer, wine, and coffee.

Tickets cost $25 and in exchange you get five blue tokens that can be used at any of the vendors to get a sample of the delicious food or drinks they bring.

Everyone also has the option to purchase more blue tokens if they want to.

The last event sold 1,000 tickets and was held in a the much smaller Stone Chimney events center. This time the Club is selling 800 tickets, and it will be held at the St. James Community Center, offering a lot more room for vendors and attendees alike.

“In 2019, all 1,000 ticket holders showed up and it was awesome to see the community get together in such a way. The restaurants ended up running out of food, not expecting the amazing outcome that we had,” Shawn said.

The Stone Chimney event space hosted the last Chefs of Brunswick which according to Shawn was a great place, but given the popularity of the event, it was beneficial to change locations.

The St. James Community Center has a large room that will hold all the vendors and another three rooms in the center that will be mixed with sit down tables as well as high top tables giving everyone a chance to either sit or stand around and mingle.

Kai Joe’s, Oliver’s, Moore Street Oyster Bar, and Petrea Imports are just a few of the amazing participants this year. I was lucky enough to be able to

chat with Austin Alfonso (also known as Big Chef Tuna) and Alexis Oxendine, owners of Kai-Joe’s about what they plan to do this year and what they loved about the previous event.

“We are excited to be able to partake in Chefs of Brunswick this year after being fortunate enough to attend and participate in the first one,” Alexis said.

“In the past, the Chefs of Brunswick was a great way for chefs and restaurants to connect with the community and show their creative side with a dish of their choice. It was an event that was fun and enjoyable for all.”

Austin and Alexis will be preparing an Asian inspired shrimp and rice bowl as well as a spin on a tuna tostada. “The flavors and ingredients will allow the guests to experience Pacific Rim Cuisine and allow the chefs to showcase their passion for food,” Austin said.

Kai-Joe’s was created in 2016 and has prospered as a takeout stand on Oak Island with menu items such as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and nachos.

Austin and Alexis spent time living in Hawaii on the island of Oahu. During that experience, Chef Austin picked up various culinary skills and flavor profiles while working at a very well-known restaurant located on the North Shore.

Their goal as restaurant owners and locals to North Carolina has always been to bring these flavors to the east coast while still embracing their southern roots and love for southern cuisine.

“The Chefs of Brunswick is such a great opportunity for local chefs to

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showcase their love for food while engaging with people in the community and with each other,” Austin and Alexis said. “We are so thrilled to be a part of this year’s event and to express our passion for food to the community. We hope this event continues in years to come as it is a great way to acknowledge local chefs and the food scene in Brunswick County.”

Chefs of Brunswick will serve up good food and give restaurants exposure to potential new customers, but is also serves as a fundraiser for community charities, and some of those charities will have displays at the event.

Chefs of Brunswick is a drop-in event from 5-9 pm. There will be limited parking at the community center. Additional parking will be available at Novant’s Pine Forest facility, and Cape Fear Jetport is supplying two vans and drivers to shuttle people from the other parking lot if needed. Tickets can be purchased directly from the Southport Rotary Club website at www.southportrotary.com. You don’t want to miss out on this amazing night!

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www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 25

2024 Rice Festival

History

Celebrate History With Four Days of Events STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

D

id you know that long before tourism took hold in Brunswick County, our economy centered around rice cultivation? The 2024 North Carolina Rice Festival is a great chance to learn all about the history of rice agriculture and to celebrate the culture of the people that made it all happen with lectures, a gala dinner, public movie screenings and a big festival at the Brunswick Town-Fort Andersen State Historic Site.

According to the Rice Festival website, “The Carolinas - North and South - were the hub of rice production in the 1700s and 1800s, and rice was the largest export to other countries, such as England. The crop was called “Carolina Gold” because of the wealth that it produced for the colonies, which grew the Southern Plantation economy. This “gold” originated in West Africa, as did the slaves who were brought to the Carolina region and beyond because many had the skill and knowledge to plant, grow, harvest and process rice. The Gullah Geechee are descendants of these West Africans, and Brunswick County is the home of many descendants of rice planters as well.”

Join the fun at these four events, in four locations over four days:

Wednesday, Feb. 28: Introducing the North Carolina Rice Festival—An Evening of Films and Discussion For those few and new who haven’t heard about or attended previous years’ Rice Festival events, or who are unfamiliar with the significant role rice—or “Carolina Gold”— played in Brunswick County’s agricultural and cultural history, two outstanding video-documentaries locally produced by the Festival organizers will be screened. Free and open to the public. 6-7 pm at WWAY-

TV3, 1224 Magnolia Village Way in Leland.

Thursday, Feb. 29: Ancestry Reveal Event Join local residents as they explore the ancestral connections between their families and the people of West Africa’s Rice Coast with help from African Ancestry’s president/CEO Dr. Gina Paige. Free and open to the public. 6-8 pm at the Navassa Community Center, 338 Main St., Navassa.

Friday, March 1: Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Gala Dinner and VIP Reception

5-9 pm at The Brunswick Center of Supply, 101 Stone Chimney Road SE

Saturday, March 2: North Carolina Rice Festival

Visit Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site on Saturday, March 2 for the North Carolina Rice Festival! Activities will be located indoors and outdoors. Activities will include: history/cultural presentations, tours, demonstrations, live entertainment, family fun, children’s stage, Gullah Geechee food vendors, and arts/crafts.

Featuring “edu-tainment” by renowned Gullah Geechee performing artists and a mouth-watering, Low country-inspired menu from award-winning Chef and Festival Culinarian Keith Rhodes of Wilmington’s Catch Restaurant, along with a Silent Auction. This is the Rice Festival’s premier fundraising event; tickets are $120/person and are available online at northcarolinaricefestival.org or by mail to: NCRFI, POB 674, Leland NC 28451

Immediate Appointments Available

MRI Ultrasound CT Scan Call 910-457-3948 to schedule

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www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 27

CALENDAR

February

We’ve included events here that were scheduled at press time, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change. For programs offered through the Town of Leland, visit https://apm.activecommunities.com/ townofleland/ to register online or register in person at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

Winnabow (off N.C. 133).

FEB 3

Bella Itaila

Join the Brunswick Community College Foundation at thier annual Bella Italia fundraiser. The event kicks off at 6 pm at the St. James Community Center.

Email Teresa Nelson at nelsont@brunswickcc.edu for tickets information.

FEB 6

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

FEB 3

Open House at LCAC

Meet the instructors and learn about all the amazing programs offered at the Leland Cultural Arts Center. The free event is 10 am to 1 pm at the Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

FEB 3

Contra Dance — LCAC

Cape Fear Contra Dance leads a night of live music and folk dance. Participants don’t need a partner, and no experience is necessary! The program is 7-10 pm, and a lesson for beginners kicks things off at 7 pm. Flat, closed shoes are recommended. Tickets are $12; Contra Dance is at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

FEB 3

Frog Watch USA Training

Day One of this free training includes fun and educational lessons in identifying local frog and toad species by their calls, understanding the conservation issues that amphibians face, and practicing the FrogWatch USA protocols for collecting data for citizen science. This training is for adults, though youth ages 10 and up are welcome with an adult who will also complete the training. No previous scientific background or knowledge of amphibians is required. The second session is Feb 10, and upon completion of both sessions, participants will be recognized as FrogWatch USA volunteers. The sessions are 10 am to 4 pm at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, 8884 Saint Philips Rd SE,

“A Great Race between Two Rivers: Sherman’s March toward Fayetteville.”

As part of the Carolinas Campaign, Sherman’s army took control of Fayetteville, destroying the Fayetteville Arsenal, foraged for food and supplies, burned private homes and businesses which demoralized Confederate forces and the civilian population. This was a strategic effort toward ending the war. Guest speaker: Colonel Wade Sokolowsky (Ret.) is a 25-year U.S. army veteran, author, frequent lecturer, and one of North Carolina’s leading experts of the 1865 Carolinas Campaign. 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.

FEB 8

Cape Fear Civil War Round Table

This month’s session features Chris Mackowski, one of the most engaging and energetic speakers on the national Civil War circuit. He will focus on the subject of one of his recent books, “The Battle of Jackson: May 14, 1863.”

Registration begins at 6;30 pm, and the meeting starts at 7 pm. CFCWRT meets at St. John’s Episcopal at 1219 Forest Hills Drive, near Independence Mall in Wilmington.

FEB 10

Makers Madness

Met with artists featured at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, and maybe pick up a few handmade pieces! Coffee, tea

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and hot chocolate will be available for purchase. The event runs 1-3 pm at the Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

FEB 13

Samara’s Village Pop-up Shop

Samara’s Village will host a “Pop-Up Shop” from 1 to 4 pm at the Port City Community Church, 187 Old Fayetteville Road in Leland.

Families with children younger than 3 and all expectant mothers are welcome to participate. All items are free and include diapers in all sizes, toys, books, clothing, and more!

In addition to representatives from Samara’s Village, community partners from organizations providing information about education, career development, child development, medical and mental health, and family services will be available.

FEB 17

Living History: The 159th Anniversary of the Fall of Fort Anderson Step back in time and experience artillery firings and infantry demonstrations throughout the day. This free event runs from 10 am to 4 pm at the site, 8884 St Phillips Rd SE, Winnabow (off N.

FEB 24

Campfire at the Cove

S’mores around the campfire, crafts and games — sounds like a perfect outing! Per-carload registration is required through the Town of Leland. The Campfire start times are 3:30 pm or 5 pm at Cypress Cove Park, 844 Appleton Way.

MARCH 1

Diamonds and Denim Charity Ball

The Brunswick Sheriff’s Charitable Foundation holds its annual ball, with proceeds to benefit selected local charities. The Ball is 6-10 pm at the St. James Community Center, 4140 Southport-Supply Road (N.C. 211), and will feature dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions, music by Tru Sol and more.

Tickets will be available in January; visit https://www.sheriffscharity.com/.

MARCH 2

NC Rice Festival

Indoor and outdoor activities are planned this year, including history/ cultural presentations, tours, demonstrations, live entertainment, family fun, children’s stage, Gullah Geechee food vendors, and arts/crafts. The festival is free to attend, from 10 am to 5 pm at the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, 8884 St Phillips Rd SE, Winnabow (off N.C. 133).

ONGOING EVENTS Riverwalk Marketplace

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

Town of Leland/Parks & Recreation

Check out http://bit.ly/lelandevents for more information on classes and programs, including painting, pottery, jewelry-making, acting, dance and more.

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

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

NC Maritime Museums - Southport, 204 E. Moore Street Hours are 10 am to 4 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays. Sensory Saturdays (low light and quiet time in the museum) are the first Saturday of the month, 10 am to noon. Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs. .

Wilmington River Tours

212 S. Water St., Wilmington

Tour the beautiful Cape Fear River and learn more about the area’s history and ecology. Sunset cruises in-

clude acoustic music Thursdays through Sundays! Tours are offered daily, to the north along historic downtown Wilmington, the USS North Carolina Battleship and Eagles Island on the even hours, and to the south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and past the shipyard on the odd hours; visit https://wilmingtonwatertours.net/ for schedules and to purchase tickets.

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

Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach

The Museum is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Touch tank feedings on Feb 2, 9 and 16, from 11 am to noon.

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

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

Feb 15 — Credence Revelation Feb 29 — Supreme Reflections Tribute for Diana Ross and The Supremes March 14 — Cashback — Johnny and June Carter Cash Tribute Visit https://bccowa.com/

Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College 701 N. Third Street in Wilmington Feb 2 — Elvis Costello

Orchestra presents River Rhapsody Feb 5 — Cirque Mechanics: Zephyr Feb14-15--The Cher Show Feb 19 --Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit Feb 20 -- The Simon and Garfunkle Story Feb 22 -- Bored Teachers Comedy Tour Feb 23 --Keb Mo Feb 27 -- JAzz at Lincoln Center Visit https://wilsoncentertickets.com for more information.

Leland Brewing Company 2115 Ale Ave, Leland

LA Times 2851 Maco Rd NE, Leland

Scapegoat Taproom 2789 Compass Pointe South Wynd NE, Unit 4, Leland

Brodee Dogs Brew House 103 A Village Road, Leland

Enjoy a wide variety of beers brewed right on site. Check their Facebook page for upates and food truck visits

This taproom has more than 40 beers and ciders to choose from, and plenty of wines too, all with a great neighborhood vibe, live music, and food truck appearances. Enjoy college football Saturdays and pro football on Sundays.

Two bars, two patios, arcade games, pool tables, corn hole, cigars, and a great time with great people

Dogs and burgers with delicious toppings, including a special house sauce, craft beers, and live music.

BEER AND WINE Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar 1175 Turlington Ave, Suite 101, Leland Full menu featuring seafood — also hosting live music with seating inside and outside.

Local’s Tavern 1107 New Pointe Blvd., Leland

Live music, karaoke, great food, special events and a great neighborhood vibe. All the football games showing on Sundays.

Bridgewater Wines 1132 New Pointe Blvd., Leland

Food and wine, including free wine tastings. Enjoy Tuesday trivia, wine tastings on Thirsty Thursdays, Wine Down Fridays and Sipping Saturdays.

Blossoms Restaurant (Magnolia Greens) 1800 Tommy Jacobs Dr. Reservations are encouraged; call 910-383-0998. Check Facebook for drink and food deals and special events.

Brunswick Beer Xchange Co. 113 Village Road, Leland

Board games, live music and open mic nights, Bunko games on Mondays, open mic comedy night on Wednesdays, trivia and food trucks on Thursdays, and tastings. .Brunswick Beer and Cidery

1313 S. Dickenson dr., Leland

Leland’s first brewery and cidery! Full menu also available

Feb 3 — The Wilmington Symphony www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 29

Found a new

FIVE GUYS

community?

dining guide

BRODEE’S DOGS BREW HOUSE

2028 Olde Regent Way, Leland (910) 833-1997

103A Village Rd NE, Leland (910) 523-5121

Burgers and More!

Hot dogs and specialty craft beers

APPLEBEE’S

Brunswick Beer and Cider 1313 S. Dickenson Dr., Leland

1113 New Pointe Blvd, Leland 910-371-6315 Full-service chain bar &grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting

BLOSSOMS RESTAURANT

Found a new home?

Magnolia Greens Golf Course 1800 Tommy Jacobs Dr., Leland 910-383-0998 Breakfast- Saturday & Sunday | Lunch – Tuesday – Sunday | Dinner – Wednesday – Saturday

BRIDGEWATER WINES 1132 New Pointe Blvd, Leland (910) 408-1900 www.bridgewaterwines.com Free Wine Tastings Thursdays and Fridays 3-6pm, Saturdays 1-5pm and Sundays 12-3pm

Leland’s first brewery and cidery! Full menu also available

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD CO

Waterford Leland, 910-399-6739 American seafood, signature dishes, hand cut fish, steaks and chicken, freshly made desserts all served in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.

CHINGON TAQUERIA 1132 New Pointe Blvd, Leland (910) 3408-1221 Mexican Food & Drink

CHRISTOPHER’S STEAKHOUSE AND SEAFOOD 2013 New Regent Way Ste 200, Leland

Looking for a new church?

Give something new a try at the bridge Presbyterian Church.

1444 Lanvale Road in Leland.

Sunday services 9:00 and 10:30 am. www.thebridgepres.org

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 www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 30

(910) 782-8498 Steakes, Seafood, Salads, Sandwiches

DUNKIN DONUTS

1132 New Pointe Blvd, Leland 910-383-8383 Hand crafted espresso drinks, fresh lmade all day breakfast sandwiches and delicious donuts.

MR. BAGELMEISTER 1105 New Pointe Blvd, Leland 910-383-8383

d e Gondolfo’s Pizza 1735 Reed Rd NE, Leland

Retro-themed chain with 1950’s sodafountain look

ISLAND FRESH-MEX GRILL 2013 Olde Regent Way, Ste 110, Leland Serving frshly made burritos, quesadillas and more Mexican

JADE GARDEN 1735 Reed Rd, Leland 910-383-0880 Chinese

JERSEY MIKE’S

Peruvian Charcoal Rotisserie Chicken

1389 Lanvale Rd, Leland (910) 769-5598 Take-out Mexican, Burgers, Hot Dogs

112 K Village Rd NE, Leland 910-371-9547

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE PIZZETTA’S PIZZERIA 1144 E. Cutlar Crossing, Leland 910-371-6001 Pizza, Italian, Bar

PORT CITY JAVA 511 Olde Waterford Way 1112 E Cutlar Crossing 910-383-1238, Leland Coffeehouse chain with house-roasted, organic, breakfast items, sandwiches.

910-833-5666

FARMHOUSE KITCHEN

Chicken Salad Chick

1120 E. Cutler Crossing, Leland Southern Style, Breakfast & Brunch

503 Old Waterford Way 104-A, Leland Chicken Salad and a whole lot more

P.T.’S OLDE FASHIONED GRILLE

(910) 408-1676

THE JOYCE IRISH PUB

FIVE GUYS

1174 Turlington Ave, Ste 101, Leland 910-408-1400 Irish Pub, Burgers, Beverage

1035 Grandiflora Dr, Leland 910-399-6808 Burgers, sandwiches and fresh-cut fries

(910) 833-1997 Burgers, Shakes and more!

FALCONE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 2013 Olde Regent Way, Leland 910-371-3442 Authentic Italian Fare

FIREHOUSE SUBS 3572 Leland Town Center Dr., Leland (910) 408-1007

THE FOREST RESTAURANT Cape Fear National at Brunswick Forest 1281 Cape Fear National Dr., Leland 910-383-3283

FUZZY PEACH 1109 New Pointe Blvd, Ste 4, Leland 910-371-1238 Frozen Yogurt

GAYLYN’S DINER 322 Village Rd, Leland (910) 371-3533 Breakfast and Lunch

LELAND SMOKEHOUSE 503 Olde Waterford Way Ste 100, Leland (910)228-5008 BBQ, Wings, Ribs

LOCAL’S TAVERN 1107 New Pointe Blvd, Leland 910- 769-1289 American Bar/Pub, Music

MIYABI JR EXPRESS 1108 New Pointe Blvd #110, Leland (910) 769-2358

SAN FELIPE MEXICAN RESTAURANT

(910) 274-0358

WOK AND ROLL 2013 Olde Regent Way, Leland 910-371-9025 Chinese

YUMMI YUMMI 112 Village Rd NE, Leland 910-371-0077 Chinese

SHUCKIN’ SHACK OYSTER BAR - LELAND 1175 Turlington Ave Suite 101 Leland, North Carolina (910) 221-5522

1114 New Pointe Blvd, Leland 910-371-0021 Japanese, Sushi, Asian

Suite 110

111 Village Rd NE, Leland 910-371-3600 Breakfast Restaurant

112 Village Rd. NE, Leland 910-371-2890

NEW DAY CAFE

2024 Olde Regent Way, Leland

WAFFLE HOUSE

SHIRLEY’S DINER

SIX HAPPINESS ASIAN RESTAURANT

PANARA BREAD

143 Poole Rd, Leland 910765-1144 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner serving sandwiches, wraps, flatbreads, quesadillas, bowls, and more

1114 New Point Blvd, #140, Leland 910-371-1188 Mexican Food and Drink

Hibachi, Sushi

497 Olde Waterford Way Ste 100, Leland (910) 769-9036 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Subs & Salads

TAQUERIA SANTA CLARA

PIZZA HUT

2029 Olde Regent Way, Leland 910-523-5300 Sub sandwiches

2028 Olde regent way, leland

0211

SMITHFIELD’S CHICKEN ’N BAR-B-Q 2020 Olde Regent Way, Leland 910-371-6900 Counter-serve chain offers fried chicken &Eastern NC BBQ vinegar-based sauce

SUBWAY

HWY 55 BURGERS, SHAKES AND FRIES

PAPI’S CAFE

1114 New Pointe Blvd, Leland 910-371-2707

1108 New Pointe Blvd #140, Leland (910) 408-1662

103 Village Rd NE & 1012 Grandiflora Dr 910-371-9933 910-383-

New Day Cafe’s Omlette and Hash Browns

www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 31

www.LelandMag.com /February /February 2024/ 2024/ Leland Magazine 32