January 2025 Southport Magazine

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 1

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

T

hough it’s a bit like having to pick a favorite child, I have to admit the Pet Issue is my favorite issue of the year. And I know I’m not the only one who loves it--readers

tell me they love and this year even the folks who print the magazines for us said they look forward to the Pet Issue too! It starts when I put out the call for pet photos and you all answer, filling my email inbox with fun. Imagine how great it is to wake up every morning and check your work email and be greeted with kittens and puppers and even the occasional goat or rooster. How can you have a bad day after that start? Then I have to organize the pet photos, which isn’t easy. I know how important each critter is to its person and I want everyone to have the joy of seeing their little fur baby in print. But even that’s fun as it lets me see them all again and try to figure who should be on the cover. Finally I lay the magazine out which means looking at everyone again and reading the names. Oh the names y’all come up with! I honestly sit here and giggle to myself.

Well, to myself and the News Hound, Copper. See, I’m a pet person too, a dog person

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EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jeffrey Stites

McKenzie Barwick Carla Edstrom Patty Langer Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny Janet Fortney Lisa P. Stites Jeffrey Stites

ASSISTANT EDITOR Lisa P. Stites lisa@southportmag.com

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Jeffrey Stites

PUBLISHER & SALES Jeffrey Stites

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jeff@southportmag.com

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Southport Magazine is published once a month by Live Oak Media with an extra publication in July for

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makes each day better. I hope having a look at these pets inside makes your day a little scratch.— Jeffrey

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really, and a hound person specifically. Working in a home office by myself would be ter-

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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Community Buldoc Wildlife Rescue Taking Care Of Injuried Wild Animals STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

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e’re all familiar with the wonderful and important work done by our community’s pet rescues, but did you know there are people out there looking out for injured wild critters as well? Life in the wild can be dangerous, and whether it’s nature or a manmade danger like a car, wildlife can be hurt or left orphaned when a parent is killed. Luckily for the woodland critters, Anna Bolduc and Bolduc’s Wildlife Rescue are here to help!

Located in Boiling Spring Lakes, Bolduc’s Wildlife Rescue is dedicated to taking in injured and orphaned wildlife, raising/healing them, and releasing them back into the wild when they are ready.

It takes more than a big heart to properly care for wild animals. “It takes a large amount of studying, taking classes, and practice to learn how to properly care for each individual species in their various life stages,” Anna said. “I am currently licensed for small mammals (opossums, squirrels,

rabbits, etc) and hope to be licensed for fawns by this spring. Continued education is an important part of wildlife rehabilitation, whether via webinars, wildlife symposiums, or independent studying.”

Out of all the animals in our area, which is Anna’s favorite to care for?“Opossums are my favorite animal to rehab, and the most unusual to some people,” she said.

Bolduc’s covers a wide area. “Most of my intakes come from Wilmington and

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Oak Island, but I often get calls ranging as far as Ocean Isle Beach to Hampstead,” Anna said.

“In general, I ask that the finders bring the animal to me. It is difficult to find time to pick up the animal or even meet while juggling all the other aspects of rehab and daily life; infants require

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around-the-clock feedings/pottying, cleaning cages, prepping food, washing dirty blankets, updating patient logs, cleaning wounds, administering medications, answering phone calls, coordinating with other rehabbers, training apprentices, etc. This is on top of daily life as a mom to two boys, Banner age 9 and Conrad age 6,” Anna said.

It’s certainly a big job, and volunteers can be a big help, Anna said, but it isn’t an easy job.

“I do accept volunteers, and an interview can be set up via phone to see if they are a good fit. A lot of people think that volunteering consists mainly of cuddling, feeding, or playing with cute baby animals… but it does not. I mainly need help with cleaning cages, prepping food, washing dishes, emptying latrines, changing out bedding,

and occasionally pottying the babies. I very rarely accept help with feeding the babies, because it is very easy to do it wrong and harm them,” she said.

If cleaning up animal cages isn’t your cup of tea, but you’d still like to help out, defraying the costs of animal rehab is always an option as well.

“Wildlife rehabilitators do not get any funding from the city or state. We rely solely on donations to cover costs,” Anna said. “I have a variety of options available for people wanting to contribute — checks, Cashapp, Venmo, PayPal, and even GofFundMe, although I’m trying to discourage this method because they take a portion of every donation.”

The address for mailing donations is 2020 Albemarle Rd, Southport, NC 28461. You can also

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Community

History Comes Alive Brunswick County Black History Symposium STORY AND PHOTOS BY SOUTHPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

S

tep into the past on Friday, Feb. 7, at 6 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm) for the 13th Annual Brunswick County Black History Symposium, where history will unfold in a dramatic performance. Actor, historian, and storyteller Tyanna Parker-West will bring to life the fascinating story of Mrs. Celia Lee Galloway (ca.1859–1950) in a premiere one-woman show.

Born into slavery in Smithville (modern-day Southport), Celia Lee grew up during a period of great historical change.

While still a child, she witnessed the fall of Fort Fisher, the Union’s occupation of Smithville, and the emancipation of its enslaved residents. As a young woman, she married Abram Galloway, a veteran of the 37th Regiment, Company I, United States Colored Troops. They became active contributors to Southport’s community, leaving a lasting legacy of strength and service. After her husband’s passing, Celia engaged in an arduous battle with the federal government to secure her widow’s pension — a testament to her resilience and her determination to honor her family’s sacrifices.

Adding to the evening’s immersion into history, James White, Civil War re-enactor from Battery B of the 2nd Regiment, U.S. Colored Light Artillery (USCLA) will represent the bravery and service of Brunswick County Union soldiers during the Civil War. Keyboardist Taurus Deas will complement this tribute with a stirring musical performance that celebrates the resilience, faith, and cultural heritage of Southport’s Black community.

The program, which was written by Liz Fuller, author of the book “Southport’s Secret Suffragist” offers a deeply personal perspective on pivotal moments in Southport’s history, shining a light on stories too often left untold.

The following interview is with Tyanna Parker-West, actor and historian; James White, Commander of the 2nd Regiment USCLA re-enactor; and Liz Fuller, President of the Southport Historical Society.

What’s the significance of this program?

Liz: This year’s program honors the 180,000 United States Colored Troops (USCT) who fought for freedom during the Civil War. The timing of this year’s program is significant because it takes place during the 160th anniversary of the Fall of Ft. Fisher and the subsequent Battle of Forks Road which culminated in the surrender of Wilmington on Feb. 22, 1865. United States Colored Troops played an important role in both these battles and in the post-war occupation of Smithville.

The history is told through the eyes of a Southport widow who shares her memories of the Civil War and of her husband, a veteran of the USCT. Personal stories like this one are a vital part of our shared history, enriching our understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

What makes this project even more extraordinary is the direct, personal connections that several participants have to the United States Colored Troops: • Donnie Joyner, Southport Historical Society Vice President and founder of the Brunswick County Black History Symposium in 2012, is the great-grandson of Joseph Monroe of the 37th Regiment, USCT. • James White, Commander of Battery B, 2nd Regiment, has been a dedicated US Colored Light Artillery re-enactor for 26 years and has written a book reflecting on his experiences.

• Tyanna Parker-West, who portrays Celia Lee Galloway in this year’s program, is related to Abram Galloway of the 37th Regiment and his wife Celia, whose story is at the heart of the evening’s event.

In my opinion, it’s this personal connection to history that makes local historical

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

James and several other members of his unit served as models for the Boundless sculpture created by artist Stephen Hayes. This sculpture sits on the grounds of Cameron Art Museum, site of the Battle of Forks Road, the final battle for Wilmington.

Photo credit: Dayanna Composeco.

societies so important. We are able to uncover and share the detailed and nuanced stories that are often left out of textbooks.

And when these stories are told by descendants, it creates an intimate connection to the past that gives me goosebumps!

What made you want to be part of this program?

Tyanna: I wanted to be a part of this project because my family has been in Brunswick County for seven generations.

My ancestors disembarked right at Port Brunswick (where Brunswick Town/Ft. Anderson is located) and I’m related to Mrs. Celia Galloway by marriage. Her husband, Abram, is a distant relative of my grandfather, Willie Wenburg Parker. My family is also buried at John N. Smith Cemetery (the largest African American Cemetery in Brunswick County). I wanted to be a part of this project to celebrate the legacy of both Abram and Celia.

James: I have been a US Colored Troops and US Colored Light Artillery re-enactor for 26 years. I am always interested in opportunities to share the history of the men who fought for freedom. I grew up on Jabbertown Rd., here in Southport. This program represents the story of people from Southport. Gibb Davis, who is mentioned in the program, was my great-grandfather. In

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1998, I participated as a re-enactor in the rededication of the gravesite of Abram Galloway and Abram Blount, two USCT soldiers buried at John N. Smith Cemetery. I’m pleased to have the opportunity to share more about their story.

What do you hope viewers get out of the program?

Tyanna: My hope is that viewers will gain a better understanding of African American life in Southport.

James: I would like people to know more about the role that the USCT, including men from Brunswick County, played in the Battle of Fort Fisher and the Battle of Forks Road in Wilmington. I’d like them to know that following the war, USCT soldiers were stationed here at Fort Johnston.

Liz: As with all of our programs, I hope that viewers feel a deeper connection to Southport’s history. The Southport Community Building, where the program will be held, is situated on land that used to be part of Fort Johnston. The building overlooks the river where the Battle of Fort Fisher was fought. The people portrayed in the program are buried at John N. Smith Cemetery on Leonard Street.

This history took place where we live. It deserves to be remembered.

Community

tion in Brunswick County. Tyanna is also a second-year PhD student at North Carolina State University, where her focus areas include African American History and Heritage Preservation. Tyanna is the proud mother of three beautiful children, and married to the love of her life, David, for the past 17 years. Instagram :@Tyannaparkerwest

How can people get tickets for the performance?

The Story of Celia Lee Galloway, USCT Widow is a free program, but reservations are required. Free tickets can be reserved at www.southporthistoricalsociety.org.

When the tickets are gone, people can register for a waitlist. If there’s enough interest, we can schedule additional performances in the future.

The performance will be followed by a Q&A session with Tyanna and James.

We will also have the book “Glory at Wilmington: The Battle of Forks Road”

by Chris E. Fonvielle, Jr. available for sale.

Proceeds from the book sales support the Southport Historical Society.

This program is sponsored in part by the North Carolina Arts Council, the Brunswick County Arts Council, the City of Southport, and the Southport Historical Society.

Liz Fuller, PhD is the President of the Southport Historical Society and author of

Tyanna Parker-West will portray Celia Lee Galloway, USCT Widow on Feb. 7, 2025

“Southport’s Secret Suffragist.”

Tyanna Parker-West, M.A. is a public historian, performance artist, and proud Gullah Geechee woman whose Brunswick County roots go back seven generations.

A recent graduate of NCCU’s graduate history department, Tyanna’s master’s thesis focuses on the Gullah Geechee connec-

James E. White, Sr. is a storyteller, author, and Civil War re-enactor. He is the founder of Black Soldiers in Blue USCT, a nonprofit organization that seeks to educate the public on the role of Black soldiers who fought for the United States Army in the Civil War (1861-1865) as the United States Colored Troops (USCT).

He has been actively involved in reenacting since 1998, through units in North and South Carolina. He is now interpreting the 2nd Regiment, U.S. Colored Light Artillery, Battery B, organized at Fort Monroe in 1864, as commander of the unit.

A graduate of Livingstone College with a major in physical education and a minor in history, James has worked in the mental health

field for more than 25 years. He is the father of two sons and ninth of eleven children.

He is actively involved in local history in his hometown of Southport and is a member of the historic Brown Chapel AME Zion Church. He and several members of his unit served as the models for the Boundless sculpture created by artist Stephen Hayes to honor the USCT at the Cameron Art Museum. He also serves as a board member for the Friends of Fort Fisher, a volunteer group committed to supporting Fort Fisher State Historic Site in Wilmington, NC.

Details: Brunswick County Black History Symposium Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. Friday, Feb. 7, 6 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 pm.

Free. Reservations required.

Visit www.southporthistoricalsociety.org to reserve tickets.

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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Community

Fort Fisher Anniversary Southport Historical Society Hosts Author

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n honor of the 160th anniversary of the Jan. 15, 1865 fall of Fort Fisher, the Southport Historical Society will host Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle Jr., historian of the Lower Cape Fear, author, and Professor Emeritus in the Dept. of History at UNC Wilmington to discuss his newly released book, “Fort Fisher Illustrated: Art of the Battle.”

O n Thursd a y , Jan. 23 at 2:30 pm, Dr. F o n vielle w i l l share images from the vast collection of 19th century art, including lithographs, paintings, woodcut and copper plate engravings, drawings, and

sketches of Fort F i s h e r, the Confederacy’s largest and strongest fortification that guarded Wilmington, which in 1864, was the South’s most important seaport and city.

Americans came to understand

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Fort Fisher’s great significance, especially in the last year of the Civil War, through art as well as the written word. Autographed copies of “Fort Fisher Illustrated: Art of the Battle,” co-authored with Dr. Robert M. Browning Jr. and published by NC Starburst Press, will be available for sale.

Southport Historical Society General Membership Meeting Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. Friday, Jan. 26, 2:30 pm.

Doors open at 2:15 pm.

Free. Open to All. Door Prize: 2 tickets to the 2025 Holiday Tour of Homes, Dec. 13, 2025. Must be present to win.

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Community

Our Annual Pet Issue Sharing Photos Of Our Readers’ Critters

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his is a banner year for the Pet Issue as we recieved more photos than ever before! We hope you love seeing all these animals as much as we loved putting this feature together.

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Marlin Monroe & Winston

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*All assistance is provided in compliance with FHA guidelines. Integrity Home Mortgage Corporation is not affiliated with or acting on behalf of or at the direction of FHA or the Federal government.For informational purposes only. All mortgage loan applicants are subject to underwriting and qualification guidelines. This is not a commitment to lend. Integrity Home Mortgage Corporation is licensed in NC, SC, and VA NMLS ID #208516 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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Community Missy Moo

Daisy

Join us and enjoy the New Year!

Every day is a Tapestry of Fine, Fresh, International Flavors!

Lucky & Lucy

Celebrate the new year with us!

Try our New Winter Menus and Daily Specials!

EMBARK WITH US ON AN EXCITING YEAR OF NEW BEGINNINGS

Chef’s Jerics Innovative Global Cuisine Scotts bold fresh ingredient cocktails and our extensive wine list An enthusiastic professional service team We will be closed Jan 1-7 for our winter break We will re-open January 8th Thank you for voting us:

A New Focus on Our Regular Dinner Services with Extra Hours • Offering a New Seasonal Menus; Offering Group Lunches and Special Event Contracts • Offering Light Options from 4:30; and Main Dinners from 5:30 for each Dinner Service • Robust and Flavorful Specials for each Meal Service • A broader Range of Authentic International Cuisines • An increasing variety of House made desserts • Using our Space & Services to foster Unity: Out of Many One!

Create loving memories when you dine with us! • RESERVATIONS: 910-457-4544, Dine-In Seating and Take-Out Orders Dinner: Tues. - Thurs. 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm • Fri. & Sat. 4:00 - 9:00 pm, or Close Online Ordering is Currently Available via our Website: Sunday Brunch: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm • Lunch: Tues. - Sat. 11:30am - 2:00 pm

116 North Howe Street, Historic Downtown Southport

portsofcallbistro.com The Full Menus for both of the these events will be posted on our Facebook Page

Maggie Award: “Most Creative Menu”

People’s Choice Awards: “Best Bistro” and,“Best Martini”

We’ve been working to Serve You since 2011.

Thanks for these prior awards:

People’s Choice Awards: “Best Bistro”– ( 2023, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2013) Maggie Awards: Best International Cuisine (2023); “Most Creative Menu” – (2021, 2019); Most Creative Chef (2020) Wooden Boat Show: Best Chowder

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Community Jenkins & Lulu

Jessi

Bucky

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

When Fresh Matters, You’ll Be Hooked!

Live Music Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday !

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Come check out our new Mr. P’s merch!

Cuisine of the Lower Cape Fear FRESH, LOCAL, EXCELLENCE

Visit our website to view our menu

www.mrpsbistro.com

Reservations Suggested 309 N. Howe St. • 910-457-0801 OPEN: Tuesday-Saturday 4:30-8:30 p.m.

ner

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ORT MAGA

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2018

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2019

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MAGGIES Winner 2021

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Community Coco

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Community ACE & Rambo

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Reservations and online ordering at BellaDiningNC.com

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Community Nugget

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Community

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Happy New Year from all of us at Dry Street Pub and Pizza!

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Biz Q&A

Better Display Cases

orabilia from being damaged. But, yes it is important to wipe off the dust to keep the case looking the best it can. We also sell a polish on our site that helps with that and also will shine the acrylic and even remove any small scratches or smudges that get on the case. All of the info about this is on our website at https:// www.betterdisplaycases.com/pages/caringfor-your-case.

Helping Keep Treasures Safe And Sound STORY BY LISA STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

W

e’re always fascinated by the types of businesses people start in our community and we love to tell their stories. Some are hyper-local, started here specifically to serve our coastal population. Others just happen to be located here, filling a niche and selling products nationwide, or even worldwide. We caught up with the owner of just such a business — Mo Johnson of Better Display Cases in Ocean Isle Beach — to find out more about how he got this family business started.

We understand that you were looking for a second career after retiring from the military. Can you tell us how you got into the display case business?

Actually while still in the military I started up a hobby sports website -- www. secsportsfan.com. After retiring from the military, I started selling Fatheads and football helmets on the website, and later on Ebay and Amazon. One day someone called me from Ebay and said they noticed I was selling sports memorabilia. They asked if I sold display cases. I didn’t even know what display cases were but said I’d look into it. At first I tried to sell other people’s cases. Eventually we designed our own and

make our own mostly based on customer ideas and suggestions.

Better Display cases is family owned and operated — who from your family is involved?

Everyone is involved in one way or another, either helping to unload trucks or helping with picking and packing orders. My wife has just started doing nameplates which is a new service we now offer.

Over the holidays, many people are likely given items they’d like to display. How can you help them find the perfect way to show off their treasures?

Yes, that’s interesting you say that. We actually are just about as busy after the holidays as before for that very reason. The best thing they can do is go to our website and search for whatever it is they want to display. We may have a case just for it. Also we have a “search by size” page on our website that lists all the size display cases we offer. That can be found here: https://

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.betterdisplaycases.com/pages/display-cases-search-by-size.

Of course, people can always call or email or use the chat box on our website to ask any questions.

On your website, you also have tips on how to clean and care for the display cases — why is that important?

Over time the case will at least get dust on it. It’s much better for dust to get on the case (which is a square box) rather than the memorabilia inside. It’s much easier to dust the case then the memorabilia. And it keeps the mem-

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 48

Can you tell us what kinds of products you have built cases for?

What’s the most unique item you’ve made a display case for?

That’s hard because there are sooo many things. And I’ve learned about so many different things from hearing from customers about their collections and memorabilia. We have a blog that details some of these stories. Maybe the one I remember most was one I didn’t even know about until after it happened. I was watching the show “Shark Tank” one night. It was the Benji Lock guy who was offered a deal with Alex Rodriguez and almost all the Sharks; then surprisingly picked Kevin O’Leary. Anyway, I happened to be watching and noticed he was displaying his lock in a display case. I looked closer and was like “I think that’s our display case.” I could tell by the unique shape of our risers. At first I thought someone had ripped off our risers (we’re the only company that offers 12 different color risers). But I contacted him and sure enough

-- it was our case he had purchased on Amazon. Amazing. You can read more about it on our website at https://www.betterdisplaycases.com/blogs/display-cases-inspiration/our-display-case-was-on-shark-tank

What do you love most about the work you do?

I love when customers tell me how they used our display cases to help them remember and share a cherished memory in their life.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know?

Yes! Please visit us at playcases.com :)

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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Keeping Fit

Holiday Eating Tips

with your health and fitness goals while still savoring what you love.

Bouncing Back From The Holiday Bulge

BY VICTOR FERNANDES

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

D

id you struggle with keeping your weight in check during the holidays?

Trust me, you’re not alone.

During the holiday season, we experience a seemingly endless array delicious foods, especially when we sit down for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s meals – not to mention the alcoholic beverages that flow like wine, including wine.

That’s always true for me when I head home to New York City for Mom’s home cooking, as my family and I do every Christmas. She always makes all of my favorites – mostly fried of course – and enough to last us the nearly full week we spent there.

And of course, I indulge – because I don’t experience Mom’s cooking more than two or three times a year, which in years past meant falling among the average American who gains be-

tween one and eight pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.

Those who are more fit hover closer to one pound, while others creep toward the eight-pound mark. What’s more concerning is that holiday weight gain often accounts for 50 percent of the total weight gained annually, and most people never lose it.

Why is there such a disparity between the weight gain for those who are fit and those who aren’t? Yes, knowledge plays a role in that, but not as large a role as you may think.

It’s awareness. It’s paying attention to the choices being made, and better yet planning ahead to make better choices overall. Now, there’s nothing we can do about the choices we made during the holidays. That time has

come and gone.

But what if I said that the approach to maintain your weight, or even to shed unwanted pounds, is the same the rest of the year too?

Because it’s not rocket science, no matter how much we as human beings feel the need to overcomplicate matters, especially pertaining to health and fitness.

Too often we fall into the trap of believing that health and fitness plans need to be complex and complicated – and let’s face it, hard – to gain the desired results.

But in reality, the plan isn’t different now than it was during the holidays.

We simply faced more temptations in front of us trying to steer us off course during the holidays (and too often, doing a very good job of doing just that).

Anyone who works with me can recite what I’m writing next because they have heard it time and time again during our time together.

Make healthy choices. Watch portion sizes. Drink plenty of water, preferably half an ounce per pound of body weight. And be active.

Still, I know how hard how it is to turn away foods we enjoy, at holiday time and the rest of the year. Here are five helpful tips when faced with making choices that will help you stay on track

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 50

1. Eat in advance – Don’t arrive at any gathering hungry. That’s a recipe for making poor choices.

2. Take your time eating – How often have you been so hungry that you eat a meal so quickly, still feel hungry along the way, and then a short time later feel bloated? Studies show it takes at least 20 minutes for our brain to send signals to our stomach saying that we’re full. So, eat slowly to prevent overeating.

3. Feel satisfied, not full – When you’re eating slowly, and you start to feel full, that’s when you should stop eating, even if there’s food left on your plate. Whenever I eat out, I ask for a to-go box before my meal arrives.

Then I cut the meal in half (because portion sizes at restaurants are at least twice the normal serving size) and put it in the box before I eat the rest. Now, I have a healthy meal for lunch or dinner the next day.

4. Indulge…a bit – If you plan, for example, to have a piece of pie for dessert, don’t have a second helping of the main course. If you prioritize what you want to eat, you can still enjoy all the choices without overdoing it.

5. Forgive yourself – No one is perfect. Simply make a healthier choice the next time.

If you need help with building better awareness over the nutritional choices you make, or any challenges you face on your health and fitness journey, I’m here to help.

Contact me at 814-504-7774 or by email at info@fernandesfit.com to get started. You can also get more information on my website at fernandesfit. com.

Nicole’s Golf Notes

Golf Tips

Putting Pointers Part One: Solid Contact

BY NICOLE WELLER LPGA/PGA GOLF TEACHING PROFESSIONAL

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

W

hat is putting other than rolling a ball into a hole across an uneven surface…seems simple, right? It can be simpler if we let it, and there is always a mix of both luck and skill that produces result. Some keys are an effective putter face, path and centeredness of contact through impact after a good green read. In this article, we’ll focus a bit on good contact.

Every putter has a sweet spot where solid contact happens and it might not be exactly in the middle of the putter face pending on the design of the putter (shaft insert, head design, etc.). You can hold a putter lightly between your thumb and index finger with the toe pointing toward you at face-height and take a tee in your other hand and lightly tap the pointy end against the putter face. Where does the least amount of twist happen? If you tap the toe and then the heel, you should notice twisting of the putter head. Keep working away from the putter heel and put-

ter toe until you find where the least amount of twist happens. That’s the sweet spot and where the ball should be striking.

Off-center putts twist the putter head creating off-line putts and also affect the solidness of a putt and therefore speed. For example, golfers may contact a ball off-center on the putter head, leave it short and then think they might need to ‘hit it harder,’ which they then do AND hit the center and now the ball shoots by way too far.

Being able to strike the center consistently is a big plus and part of our challenge with the game as variable humans. There’s a great machine called the SAM Putt Lab (Science And Motion) and one of the 50+ parameters it measures on a single putt is centeredness of contact. It shows the dispersion pattern pretty vividly. Check out Loggerhead or other golf fitting places in the area to have staff run you through a SAM session. The data is great if used well.

I have several drills I like to prescribe for centeredness of contact in putting.

One is to set up a tee gate station six feet on a flat or uphill putt with a tee one quarter of an inch outside the toe and another the same distance outside the heel of the putter. Then roll some putts without hitting one of the tees as the putter head passes through the tees. Newer golfers and higher handicappers can widen the tee gate just a little more. I watched Tiger run this drill at the Masters during one of my visits there. The ability to start and return the putter head back to the center position is key.

Make up some games…

-- How many putts out of 10 can you make at six feet without hitting a tee gate?

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

-- How many putts in a row can you make at six feet without hitting a tee gate? ●-- How many putts out of 10 can you make at six feet with your eyes closed without hitting a tee gate?

I also like using the Eyeline Golf Ball of Steel, it gives instant feedback if a ball was struck solidly or off-center.

Feel free to check out the Eyeline Golf link through my website under Products.

Get better at finding the center of the putter face and when playing — make that your putting goal during the round, bring that into your soft awareness. Have a line item on your scorecard to keep track of the percent of solid putts, thereby upping your awareness of that. Give a checkmark for center and an X for not and see what your percentage is for the day.

And putters are the most used and least-fitted clubs in the bag. It might be a good idea if you want to improve your putting to make sure you have a putter that has the right length, head type, weight, shaft insert and other aspects that make the putter work for you and not the other way around… get a putter fitting and take that variable off the table!

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 51

FISHING REPORT

January Fishing Report

Good Fishing If You Know Where To Look

BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK

H

appy New Year to all the anglers out there! December wrapped up on a high note, with solid fishing opportunities in the backwaters, nearshore, and offshore areas. Although favorable weather windows can be rare this time of year, when conditions align, the fishing has been remarkably good. As we move into January, there are still some rewarding fishing opportunities for those who know where to look.

Backwater Water temperatures will remain in the low to mid-50s, so the best fishing can often be found in creeks.

These areas warm slightly during the day as shallow, dark-bottomed waters absorb sunlight. Look for red drum feeding on shrimp in shal-

low mudflats near deep holes. To improve your chances, approach quietly and watch for schools of red drum cruising the flats. Clear winter water makes them skittish, so long, accurate casts are essential.

Speckled trout can also be found in creeks with slightly warmer water temperatures.

Focus on tide rips, especially where feeder creeks converge, creating small current funnels. Effective baits include MirrOlures, smaller paddle tails on jig heads, and live shrimp. It’s crucial to slow your bait presentation—if you think you’re fishing slowly, slow down even more.

Bites tend to be subtle during the colder months.

Nearshore A few bull red drum remain active around the shoals. Although

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

their numbers are limited, you can spot schools feeding on spots and menhaden near the shoals off Bald Head Island.

The annual Bluefin Tuna migration is also in full swing. These massive fish challenge your patience, tackle, and physical endurance. They are typically found near shoals, the fairway buoy, the knuckle buoy, and areas like East Beach on Bald Head Island or out toward the Cucumber and Cabbage Patch areas.

To target Bluefin Tuna, try trolling horse ballyhoo rigged on large jag heads in white, pink, or red. Another effective technique involves using a planer on a downrigger. Here’s how:

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 52

Captain Steele Park, a US Navy Veteran, has been fishing the oceans, rivers, and lakes of southeastern NC since he was 7 years old and knows these waters like the back of his hand.

He calls Southport home and captains the Catherine Anne Sportfishing & Excursions fleet. For more information please call at 910620-9919 Deploy about 100 yards of line, with 30–50 feet of 300-pound fluorocarbon leader and the bait attached at the end.

Wrap a rubber band around the

FISHING REPORT outer edges of the activity to avoid disrupting the feed.

Offshore Some of the b e s t fishing in the a r e a takes place o f f shore in the warm waters of the line several times Gulf Stream. With colder water and attach it to a temperatures near the coast, the double snap swivel. Gulf Stream brings warmer waters Clip the swivel to (70°F and above) that hold wahoo, the downrigger line, yellowfin tuna, and blackfin tuna. allowing it to slide down to the planer.

Start with high-speed trolling to This setup posi- locate fish, then switch to skirted tions your bait just rigs with ballyhoo once you find a off the bottom, productive spot. Additionally, there where tuna feed on are still opportunities to catch botspots, bunker, and tom dwellers offshore. While groueels. per season is closed, species like Heavy-duty tack- vermilion snapper and triggerfish le is a must—use can be caught in 100–150 feet of 80-pound class reels water and make for excellent table or higher with roller fare. guides on your rods.

These fish can weigh Winter Fishing Tips 800–1,000 pounds Winter fishing offers plenty of and put up an unre- action and is well worth the effort, lenting fight. Look but safety should always come first. for gannets diving Be sure to check weather forecasts on baitfish to locate carefully and assess conditions beactive feeding ar- fore heading out. Long rides in cold eas. Troll along the water can quickly become danger-

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

ous if the weather worsens. Spray from 50-degree water can lead to hypothermia in short order.

The good news? Winter here only lasts 2–3 months, and spring fishing will be just around the corner. Good luck out there!

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 53

Civil War Hospitals

History

January Brunswick Civil War Round Table STORY CONTRIBUTED

A

s battles raged throughout the course of the Civil War, at least 600,000 soldiers died from wounds or sickness. The vast majority of these men were treated in both battlefield and general hospitals. So, how vital were hospitals throughout the war? Were they effective, efficient, and helpful to those who were admitted?

Did hospitals face limitations; e.g., medical treatments, sanitary conditions, diseases, or overwhelmed by the unexpected number of patients being admitted every day? Returning guest speaker Col. Wade Sokolosky (Ret.) will draw on many firsthand accounts which describe the challenges and opportunities both sides faced.

His enlightening presentation will take place at the Brunswick Civil War Round Table meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at Hatch Auditorium in Caswell Beach.

Clearly hospitals were essential to the survival and recovery of countless soldiers. They played a crucial role in treating the wounded, controlling disease, advancing medical knowledge, and providing even psychological support. Despite their effectiveness and efficiency, they had serious limitations because of the lack of medical knowledge at the time, resulting in hospital stays lasting weeks or even months for recovery.

The downside meant unsanitary conditions because of overcrowding and a lack of clean water. Disease control

was sporadic, resulting in the spread to other quarantined patients, poor hygiene practices prevailed, and poor ventilation complicated medical progress. On the positive side, new surgical techniques, improved anesthesia, and better medical supplies such as bandages, splints, and surgical instruments created some hope of optimism.

Throughout the war, both sides relied on hospitals for addressing the physical and emotional trauma of their patients. As an example, by 1864, the Confederacy was clearly on the defensive. Here in North Carolina, with

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

the fall of Ft. Fisher and Wilmington, Maj. Gen. Sherman’s 1865 Carolinas Campaign, and Maj. Gen. George Stoneman’s devastating cattle raid throughout much of western North Carolina, the state’s Confederate hospital system was on the brink of failure.

Food and medical supplies were scarce, affecting the ability of surgeons overseeing hospitals to provide a proper diet and treatment for patients.

Despite such challenges, the Confederate Medical Department expanded the hospital network along the state’s vital railroad system further into the Piedmont region to meet the ever increasing flow of the sick and wounded.

This was one step in the never-ending need to ease the distress and frustration in all hospitals.

Guest speaker Wade Sokolosky is highly qualified to discuss what he perceived as a forgotten yet crucial Civil War oversight by most other historians – the hospitals. He rectified this oversight, in part, with “North Carolina’s Confederate Hospitals, Vol. 1, 1861 – 1863.” Wade is a native of Beaufort, N.C.; a graduate of East Carolina University; and a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Army. In addition, as a career army officer, he has used his expertise in

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military affairs to produce a definitive study of another overlooked yet significant part of North Carolina history; i.e., its significant involvement in the Civil War. He is one of North Carolina’s leading experts in the 1865 Carolinas Campaign, and frequently leads tours of these battlefields. He also serves as a tour guide with the Friends of Bentonville Battlefield, and has been an advisor to the Brunswick Civil War Round Table for years.

Registration for this monthly meeting begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome.

The visitor fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues. For more information about this meeting, the easy online registration process, how to attend meetings remotely, or how to become a member, email president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com, or call him directly at (404) 229-9425. Also, you can visit the website at Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com, or the Facebook page for additional information, news, and updates.

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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CALENDAR

January

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

DEC 1-31

Festival of Trees - Museum of Coastal Carolina The Museum becomes a holiday wonderland, with 20 trees sponsored by area groups, businesses and individuals. There’s a little friendly competition to have the best tree, and each tree sponsorship is there to benefit a local non-profit through silent auction.

Visitors get to vote for their favorite, and the winner will be announced Dec 23. Themes for this year’s event include ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, “Elf” (the movie), Disney as well as coastal, nautical and traditional holiday themes.

JAN 7, 2025

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

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

The group meets at Hatch Auditorium at Fort Caswell; doors open at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Anyone can attend; the cost is $10 but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues.

JAN 22

History With A Drink

The Royal James hosts historian Jim McKee (Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site), who will discuss blockade runners and the Civil War. Tickets are limited, and cost $20, and the program is 7-8 pm. Find The Royal James at 109 E. Moore St., Southport.

JAN 25

Hidden Battleship

This behind-the-scenes tour takes visitors into the unrestored areas of the ship, from top to bottom. This program requires climbing ladders, crossing high hatches, and going through tight/confined spaces, and is limited to ages 16 and older. The cost is $75, and tickets sell out quickly. The battleship site is at 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington (west side of the Cape Fear River).

JAN 25

Between The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea: Sailors and Tar Workers in the 18th Century Visit Brunswick Town State Hsitorc Site and learn the history of naval stores in the Cape Fear. This free Event runs 10 am - 4 pm.

FEB 4

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

Licensed battlefield guide and historic site manager Kevin Pawlak discuss a major turning point in the Civil War entitled, “Never Such a Campaign: The Battle of Second Manassas.” 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 13

Coastal Consumer Showcase

The Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual event, highlighting area businesses and services. The showcase is 4-7 pm at the St. James Community Center, 4140 Southport-Supply Road.

FEB 22

Mardi Gras By the Sea — Oak Island

The Town celebrates Mardi Gras with a parade that starts at 11 am. The parade route ends at the Middleton park fields, 46th Street and Dolphin Drive, and there will be food vendors, a craft market, children’s activities and live music from local bands. The event runs until 4 pm.

FEB 22

Chefs of Brunswick

The Southport Rotary Club hosts this

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

Save The Date for Oak Island’s Mardi Gras By The Sea Parade, February 22, 2025

annual event, which features samples and tastings from chefs, restaurants and wine sellers in the county. Tickets are $30. The event is 5:30-9 pm at the St. James Community Center, 4140 Southport-Supply Road.

Ongoing Events

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

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

Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St, Southport: Call 910-457-6237 to regis-

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ter for programs. One-on-one tech support is offered on Thursdays, 1-3 pm.

The Dead Tree Society Book Club (for grades 6-12) meets Jan 11. .

NC Maritime Museums - Southport 204 E. Moore St.

Hours are 10 am to 4 pm Tuesdays thr Hours are 10 am to 4 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays. Sensory Saturdays (low light and quiet time in the museum) are the first Saturday of the month, 10 am to noon. The Museum will be closed Dec 24-26 and Jan 1 for holidays. The Museum will also be closed Jan 2-14 give staff time to inspect and refresh its facilities, exhibits and collections. Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs..

Oak Island Recreation Department Join the Striders Club at various locations and dates/times to get out and about with a group or try your hand at art with the Paintbrush Academy.

There are book clubs, kayak tours in the Davis Canal, surf fishing lessons, and much more. Visit https://parksrec.egov. basgov.com/oakislandnc for details on

programs.

Bingo at the Elks Lodge Bingo games on the second and fourth Tuesdays at the Lodge, 106 E Dolphin Drive, Oak Island. Games are open to the public; no one under 16 and no outside food or drinks allowed.

Doors open to the public at 5:45 pm with games starting at 6:30pm. Snacks and drinks available for purchase (cash or checks only). Progressive Jackpot and winner take all coverall.

Battleship North Carolina

Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year, such as Memorial Day observances, Battleship 101 (Feb 8) and more. Visit https://battleshipnc.com/. The battleship site is at 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington (west side of the Cape Fear River)..

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

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

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

There is plenty to do and see, with a museum, historic ruins, great information on the site’s history, and some of the most beautiful riverfront property in the County. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Guided tours are now available, at 10 am on Fridays and Saturdays; the cost is $5. .

Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach

The Museum is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. The Museum will be open Sunday and Monday, Jan 19-20 for Martin Luther King Day and Feb 17-17 for President’s Day.

Ingram Planetarium 7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach

The Planetarium is open Thursdays through Saturdays; dome shows start

on the hour from 11 am to 3 pm. Laser shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 6 pm and 7 pm. The Planetarium will be open Sunday and Monday, Jan 19-20 for Martin Luther King Day and Feb 17-17 for President’s Day. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule, including special holiday shows.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Odell Williamson Auditorium

150 College Road NW, Bolivia (Brunswick Community College) Jan 17 — Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show

Jan 24 — Solitary Man - Neil Diamond Tribute Feb 9 — Can’t Get Next To You - A Temptations Concert Experience March 1 — The Brothers Doobie - A Tribute to the Doobie Brothers

Open Air Markets

Olde Southport Village Shoppes Farmers Market The Village Shops spill out onto the courtyard with vendors and artisans joining in to offer a wide variety of goods and munchies. Find the market at 1102 N. Howe St., behind the Smokehouse restaurant.

WINE, BEER AND COFFEE

American Fish Co 150 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport

Gorgeous views at this waterfront bar, live music, and great conversations; now open for the season!.

Haven 307 N. Howe St., Southport

This downtown spot features “bites, beer, gelato, wine” with space for live music too. Tuesdays feature live music and wine tastings, Fridays have live music and beer tastings, and there’s live music on Saturday too..

Royal James 109 E. Moore St., Southport

Southport’s brand new rum and tequila bar in the heart of downtown; also serving signature Cuban sandwiches and other tasty salads and snacks.

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

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

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

TASTING

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

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

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

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

The Mullet Bar 112 Yacht Basin Drive

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

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

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

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

TIKI TAVERN 104 E. 8th St., Southport

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

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

Shop for a wide variety of wines and craft beers, call 910-454-0633, or shop online at www.uncorkedbythesea.com.

Collector wines, crystal stemware and

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

other great gift items also available.

Crossroads Gathering Place 128 Country Club Drive, Oak Island

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

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

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

The Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille 601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t see your event or location listed? Try as we might, we don’t catch everything, so to be sure to be included send your events to lisa@southportmag.com before the 20th of each month!

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Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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DINING GUIDE

Find Something Sure To Please Everyone Check out the Dining Guide and what delicious food the local area has to offer!

With over 50 beer selections, Shagger Jacks offers an assortment of dishes from steamers to ribs and sweet curry chicken to tacos.

SEAFOOD SPECIALTY

M FISHY FISHY CAFE

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

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

SALT 64

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

M FRYING PAN

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

M ISLAND WAY RESTAURANT

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

KOKO CABANA

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

MOJO’S ON THE HARBOR

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

MOORE STREET OYSTER BAR

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

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

www.provisioncompany.com

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

RUSTY HOOKS DOCKSIDE GRILL

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

SWAIN’S CUT SEAFOOD Pizza and a sandwich at Dry Street Pub & Pizza

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

SWAIN SEAFOOD SHACK

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

MODERN AMERICAN BACK TO SHUCKERS

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

EDGEWATER 122

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

OLIVER’S ON THE CAPE FEAR

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

M MR. P’S BISTRO

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

SHAGGER JACKS

8004 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-933-4103 www.shaggerjacksoki.com

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

TRANQUIL HARBOR

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

beers for in-store shopping, curbside pick-up and shopping on-line. Delivering locally. Enjoy sipping wine in the shop while admiring local art or in the courtyard. Wines are available to taste every day. Special orders welcome

Royal James

109 E. Moore St., Southport

Southport’s brand new rum and tequila bar in the heart of downtown; also serving signature Cuban sandwiches and other tasty salads and snacks.

HAVEN

307 N. Howe St., Southport Featuring Italian wines, local craft beer, and THC drinks

BARBECUE M SOUTHPORT SMOKE HOUSE

WINE & BEER

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

GRAPE AND ALE

M BAR-B-QUE HOUSE

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

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

SILVER COAST WINERY

CAFES, DELIS & GRILLS

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

SOUTHPORT TAP & CELLAR

827 N. Howe St., Southport Huge variety of draught beers, wine, adult slushies and more! Inside and outside seating.

Watch our Facebook page for Foodt Truck dates!

THE WINE RACK

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

UNCORKED BY THE SEA

49th STREET BAR AND GRILL

4901 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Indoor and outside seating will a full menu.

BLUE COW GRILLE

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

BOB’S DOGS

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

THE BREAK

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

602 N. Howe St. Southport, 910-454-0633 Offering a wide variety of fine wines and craft

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

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DINING GUIDE CAROLINA COASTAL CAFE

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

CHASER’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL

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

ERIC’S GRILLE

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

FAT ANDY’S BURGERS

to Oak Island. Enjoy a beer or bourbon with the outlaws, listen to live music, play outdoor games, and raise a toast to craft beer and spirits community. Enjoy delicious food with amazing views of the intercoastal. Limited release, and cool specialty beers/spirits will be available at the Hideout

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

M SOUTHPORT COFFEE CO. AND KITCHEN

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

OAK ISLAND DELI AND PUB

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

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

FIXIN’S OKI

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

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

JERSEY MIKES

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

CAFE KOA

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

LITTLE BIT’S GRILL

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

LAZY TURTLE BAR & GRILL

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

LOCAL’S FAMILY DINER

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

LOCO JO’S

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

LONERIDER AT OAK ISLAND

57th Place west, Oak Island Lonerider Brew-Stillery outlaws bring award winning brews/bourbons and atmosphere

OAK ISLAND SUBS AND SALADS

OASIS BAR AND GRILL

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

THE OFFICE COFFEE & WINE BAR

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

OLD BRIDGE DINER

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

THE SAUCY SOUTHERNER

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

SUNSET GRILL

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

TROLLY STOP

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

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ 1671 N. Howe St. #1A, Southport 910-363-4908

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com Bold, flavorful food and smoothies with a healthy appeal. Our items are made to order with fresh, simple, superior ingredients.

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

WILDLIFE RESTAURANT & GRILL

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

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

CHINESE ASIAN TASTE

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

SOUTHPORT GOURMET AND SHI BAR

SU-

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

TASTE OF CHINA

FALCONE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

M JOSEPH’S ITALIAN BISTRO

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

JAPANESE TENGU JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE

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

MEXICAN DELPHINA CANTINA

INTERNATIONAL

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

M PORTS OF CALL

KAI JOE’S

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

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

ITALIAN M BELLA CUCINA

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

CASTUCCI’S AN ITALIAN JOINT

4332 Long Beach Rd, Southport 910-477-6755 Family Italian restaurant

D’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 62

4722 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island Phone: (910) 622-1509 Traditional Mexican dishes and specialties.

SAN FELIPE

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 1, Southport & 4961 Long Beach Rd. SE 910-454-0950 Serving authentic dishes, such as fajitas, enchiladas and chalupas, fresh salsa and margaritas; serves traditional Mexican dishes.

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

DINING GUIDE SIDE STREAT TAKE OUT

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

PIZZERIAS BAMBINI’S PIZZERIA

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

BEACH ROAD PIZZA AND WINGS

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

DRY STREET PUB AND PIZZA

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

FAMOUS SUBS AND PIZZA

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

MO’S WOOD FIRED KITCHEN

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

PIZZA SHACK

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

THE PEPPERONI GRILL

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

PEPPERONI GRILL AT THE BEACH

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

Solar Brewing

8108 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Oak Island’s first and only brewery!

Also featuring pizza, wings and even a giant pretzel!

DOMINO’S (SOUTHPORT)

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

DOMINO’S (OAK ISLAND)

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

lime pie, and carrot cake.

ICE CREAM

THAI AND VINE

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

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

BAKERIES/ COFFEE

BALD HEAD COFFEE & TEA HOUSE

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

Drive-thru available.

Crossroads Gathering Place 128 Country Club Drive

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

BURNEY’S BAKERY

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

ISLAND JO COFFEE ‘N CAFE

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

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

HAVEN

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

THE SCOOP SHOP

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

SOUTHPORT SUZIE’S

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

307 N. Howe St., Southport Imported Italian gelato from Turin- it’s like being in Italy!

SUGAR DADDIES

LIL & JOHN’S SWEETREAT HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

TIKI PINEAPPLE WHIPS

6324 East Oak Island Drive.

Family-owned and operated. Featuring 16 flavors of ultra-premium, homemade ice cream.

We use only dairy from grass-fed North Carolina cows and never add artificial flavors or colors.

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E. Oak Island Drive

5119 E. Oak Island Drive Ice Cream and Dip-n-Dots 4602 E. Beach Drive, Oak Island (910) 632-0598 Dole Whip pineapple frozen treats right at the beach!

TROPICAL TREATS

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

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

PORT CITY JAVA

113 N. Howe Street, Southport 454-0321 www.portcityjava.com We serve coffees, espresso drinks, fruit smoothies, milkshakes, fresh juices, breakfast and lunch sandwiches and wraps all day. Open year round.

Complimentary WiFi. Comfortable inside and outside seating. Coffee catering available.

RUBY’S COFFEEHOUSE AND ERY

EAT-

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

SEASIDE MERMAID

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

THAI

SIDE STREET BAKERY

1131 N. Atlantic Ave, Southport

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

SPIKE’S DAIRY BAR

JUMPIN’ JAVA OAK ISLAND

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

INDOCHINE EXPRESS

M DAIRY QUEEN

Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

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

Available at: THE PAINTED MERMAID Handcrafted Pottery

817 N Howe Street, Southport

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

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

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 63

Cheers to New Beginnings!

Start the Year with a Fresh Address and Fresh Perspective.

The ball has dropped, and it’s time to celebrate new beginnings! Whether you're ready to toast to buying your dream home or selling to start fresh, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make this the year you uncork the possibilities and find the perfect place to call home. After all, nothing says “fresh start” like a new set of keys!

PRO

AG MP C H A 20 25

DONNA FINDLAY dfindlayrealtor@gmail.com

roll

Car t r e b o R

PER

T IE

S

NE

ROBERT CARROLL

robert@robertcarrollproperties.com

910.269.3049

910.465.2717

Robert Carroll

PROPERTIES

Celebrating Eleven Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2025/ 2025/ Southport Magazine 64