June 2024 Southport Magazine

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

Welcome to the Music Issue! While one would expect our commununity to be a fishing/boating/beach community, I think people who get to really know us will find that we are also very much a musical community. Take our cover for instance, taken in the music shop that takes up the back of an Oak Island gift shop. If you’ve not been to Dunes Mercantile Gifts & Guitars and spoken to Denny (who also plays drums for a local band), you’re missing out. Page through this issue and you’ll meet a local band that joined a book tour, discover a new Unplugged musicians’ group, and find profiles on local musicians. And have you ever heard drumming while you’re walking around Southport? Our first story will tell you all about who’s making that music. This issue is more than just music though -- we also bring you behind the scenes of Oak Island playing backdrop on HGTV’s “Battle on the Beach,” and so much more. Enjoy!

STAFF

EDITOR

Jeffrey Stites

editor@southportmag.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Lisa P. Stites

lisa@southportmag.com

LEAD DESIGNER

Liz Brinker

lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

Chuck and Sue Cothran

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

McKenzie Barwick

Carla Edstrom

Patty Langer

Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny

Janet Fortney

Lisa P. Stites

Jeffrey Stites

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jeffrey Stites

PUBLISHER & SALES

Jeffrey Stites

jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

CONSULTANT

Kris Beasley

PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461

Southport Magazine is published once a month by

Live Oak Media with an extra publication in July for the Southport Fourth of July Festival.

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

Annual Subscription: $45 jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

Community

Collective Rhythm Drums Kindle Joy, Connection, Healing

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JANET FORTNEY

“It’s a beautiful, tasty soup!” said James Giambusso, co-facilitator of the Franklin Square Park (FSP) Drum Circle. He’s speaking of the musical melange that the group’s drummers create when they play. Many in downtown Southport have heard the beckoning drum rhythms while at the post office, in the park, or from their own backyards. For its approximately 12-25 weekly participants, who began meeting at Taylor Field Park while Franklin Square Park was closed, the drum circle provides connection, joy, healing, and fun.

The FSP Drum Circle’s global rhythms, taught by Giambusso, a Bolivia resident, and co-leader Joni Knapp, of Southport, vary from African and Afro-Caribbean to Cuban and Native American. The majority of participants play djembe drums, a goblet-shaped drum that originated in West Africa approximately 800 years ago. Others opt for a bucket drum or box drum, and no instrument is ever unwelcome.

“I enjoy and appreciate so much about this group,” explained Pam Buckovich, a regular attendee of the FSP meet-up. “James and Joni are fantastic! They make it so easy for anyone to participate by providing a drum if you don’t have one, and by teaching basic rhythms that anyone can

do. I love the sense of community...it’s really fun to be part of it!”

In fact, fun and a sense of community are just some of the amazing benefits of drumming. According to Raven Drum Foundation, an advocacy-through-arts organization serving trauma survivors and communities in crisis, “Cultures like the Ashanti of West Africa and the many indigenous tribes of North and South America recognize the drum as an instrument of spiritual healing. When you participate in a drum circle…you are entering into a nonjudgmental community. You are blessed with a spirit of camaraderie. That benefit alone has been shown to reduce stress while increasing self-confidence.

“Research has shown that drumming reduces anxiety, stress, and depression,” the drumming foundation’s website further extols, “[Psychologists believe that] drumming has an effect similar to meditation. A 2001 study…showed that group-drumming music therapy has the potential to actually alter neuroendocrine and immunological patterns,

creating hope for healing for sufferers with chronic illnesses. Researchers have found that many cancer patients who play drums for 30 minutes each day had stronger immune systems and increased levels of cancer-fighting cells.”

“I joined this group almost two years ago and had never drummed in my life,” said Terry Keating. “I immediately felt comfortable and it is something I look forward to every week. The rhythms of the group are both individual and collaborative.”

Rick Kranz, a St. James-based rock-n-roll drummer, concurred about the socio-emotional benefits of drumming. Although Rick, the drummer since 2018 for popular local band LunaSea, favors a drum kit over a djembe drum, he said, “Drumming taught me how to achieve what seems impossible. [I went] from not knowing how to hold a pair of drumsticks to fronting a progressive rock band in a very short amount of time. I have used this throughout my [business and personal] life. Drumming has led to meeting some incredible people and forming close and long-term friendships.”

Additionally, Rick believes that oftentimes “the drummer is the glue that holds the band together...it takes an understanding of others, why they are here, what

motivates them... You are working with a diverse group of individuals and it takes a lot of empathy and patience to keep them together.” Though Rick actually “left the drums behind for about 40 years, I never forgot the life lessons I learned from drumming.”

Fortuitously, Rick found himself called back to drumming. “About five years ago,” he said, “my wife and I were at the movies watching ‘Thor Ragnarok’ and, during the battle scene, Led Zeppelin’s ‘Immigrant Song’ was playing. [It was] one of my wife’s favorite songs that I played back in the day. We looked at each other at the same time and said I should start drumming again. So I did.”

Like Rick, Margo Ross Sears, of Sunset Beach, espouses drumming’s human connection. She is the co-leader of the Sunset Beach Drum Circle. Margo volunteered for her role after Nicole Depauw, a longtime yoga instructor and fellow Sunset Beach resident, made a Facebook request for a co-leader of the drum circle. “Nicole sought to replicate the lovely, peaceful, serene beach gatherings she’d witnessed in India,” Margo explained.

Margo added that she and other drum

circle attendees enjoy “meeting open-hearted, kind, fun, laughing, fearless, easy-going souls and sharing spontaneous moments of musical beauty, energy, connection and far more. People report feeling happier, calmer, very relaxed, and even healed. [It’s] just a group’s desire to bang the drums, laugh, soak up nature, and to receive and give goodwill, loving intentions, higher vibrations, peace, and joy in this time of global shifting and unrest.”

“If I ‘set the table,’” Giambusso said of his role as a drum circle leader, “people can come and they can take what they need and maybe walk away feeling better, even if it’s just for the moment.”  In Brunswick County, Giambusso and Knapp have shared the benefits of drumming with homeschooled students, cancer support groups, and groups at Southport’s Brunswick Senior Center.

Knapp encourages all who are interested

to join in. “It’s fun! You don’t have to be a musician. You got a heartbeat, you have rhythm. It’s just welcoming and I find it very meditative. I close my eyes [while drumming] and I’m just good.”

Meredith N. Wray, another regular FSP Drum Circle member, agreed, “It connects you right back with the beat of the heart... [a] universal rhythm.”

Need Some Drumming In Your Life?

Franklin Park Drum Circle: Participants meet on Saturdays from 2:45-4 pm at Taylor Field Park (at the end of East Nash Street, across from the Old Smithville Cemetery) in Southport. Drums and other instruments available. www.facebook.com/groups/463958221410922

Sunset Beach Drum Circle: Participants drum weekly on Monday nights from May to October on the sand of Sunset Beach beside the fishing pier. Drums and other instruments available. www.meetup.com/sunset-beach-drum-circle or www.facebook.com/SBDrumCircleNC

If you’re in the mood for some Coastal Carolina “rock & soul” to boost your spirits, check out upcoming performances by LunaSea with drummer Rick Kranz. www.lunasearockers.com

North Howe St., Southport 910-457-0921

HOURS: MOn-Sat 10:00aM-5:00pM, SUn 11:00aM-4:00pM

Showcase

Meet Audiomelt

Local

Band Toured With Children’s Author

STORY BY LISA STITES, PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

We love writing about music — all the concerts and sounds of summer we all enjoy so much. We’re also excited to share information about a cool young group, formed right in our area, whose members have big plans for making a name for themselves. The group released an album last summer and performed as the band of one of the characters for a “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” national book tour. We can’t wait to see what’s next for Audiomelt!

How long has your band been together, and how did you come together as a group?

We started in mid-2019 as the three of us, Josh, Nico and Owen, after a chance encounter through social media. We were in search of a singer and in the summer of 2020, Landon joined us at a house party, and we all performed songs together without ever jamming with each other before. (Josh and Landon had briefly crossed paths and jammed together in 2018/2019). We hit it off musically and as people and here we are still together today, still as close as brothers.

Did you grow up here in Brunswick County, and if so, what has it been like breaking into the music industry from here?

Josh and I were both born and raised right here in Brunswick County. We have appreciated learning and growing in our local music scene, but we’re very excited to branch out and experience the other regional markets and music scenes, and then we will eventually expand our presence nationally.

How did you end up on the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” tour, and what was that like?

Author Jeff Kinney had posted an audition and announcement for his upcoming book tour and was looking for a band to perform each night in different states for fans of the new “Diary Of A Wimpy Kid” book. The book that was being released at the time of this tour was based around Rodrick Heffley, Greg Heffley’s older brother, who plays drums in the band Löded Diper. We had a great time with Jeff and for us as a band it felt like a cool way to inspire the kids at these shows to maybe pick up an instrument as well someday!

Have you done other tours? What is your favorite memory from the road?

We haven’t done any other tours yet, but we have done many oneoff shows out of Brunswick County. We’ve gone as far as Boston and we’re headed to South Carolina with the hopes of continuing to expand our presence in the wide world of musical entertainment.

Who are some of your musical influences?

It ranges all around, some of us can tend to be drawn to heavier metal bands like Periphery, White Zombie and Korn, while others in the band might enjoy more soulful rock bands such as Soundgarden, Alice In Chains

or Lynyrd Skynyrd but we constantly listen to all sorts of music across all genres in addition to our said favorites.

Your debut album released in August of last year — what is next for the band? Working on another album? Right now we are currently writing the next release, in time we will figure out whether that’s a full album or EP. We are expanding our sound and style off the last record and are excited to see where we can take our new songs.

What else would you like our readers to know about Audiomelt?

We’d love for everyone to listen to our music which is available on

CD, Vinyl and all streaming platforms.  Stay up to date with at www. Audiomelt.net and all social media platforms @audiomelt.

Musician Directory

Celebrating Our Vibrant Music Scene

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Live music is everywhere in our community. You can find a variety of live music in our bars and restuarnts evey night og the week. Southport and OAk Island both host free outdoor concert series in the summer and fall. Almost every event will have a live music component. We love our guitars and drums and passionate vocals. With so many choices, it can be difficult to pick who you’d like to see, or who you’d like to bring to a venue you manage. We’re here to help! We reached out to the local music community and asked our musicians to tell us a bit about themselves. The response was amazing and we hope this little directory (listed in the order we recieved the information) helps connect audiences with the music they love.

REV AND THE FLYING FLAMINGOS

Rev - Vocalist, Guitarist

David Pope - Keyboardist, Vocals

Bob Gentile - Bassist, Vocals

Also:

Erik Schohner - Bassist, Vocals

Mark Barca - Drums

Rev and the Flying Flamingos entertain the Cape Fear area with an eclectic mix of pop, R&B, blues, and jazz. We perform music from Neil Young, Stevie Wonder, Billie Joel, Elton John, Neil Diamond, John Cougar Mellencamp, Elvis Costello, Ray Charles, and many more. Look for us at your favorite venues such as American Fish Co., the Mullet Bar, Grape and Ale, the River Hotel, and many others. We are also available for festivals and private parties as a duo, trio, or quartet.

Contact info:

Daniel Guetschow, aka Rev (608) 334-0619 revblues3000@yahoo.com

DOUBLE CHERRY PIE

See Double Cherry Pie on Facebook.

Members: Scott Rivers,  Jason Purcell

Bio: DCP has been together since 2017 and it shows! They are tight! DCP plays a variety of popular music. With more than 400 songs in their repertoire, there’s something for everyone. They never have a set list as they play to the audience on-hand. DCP is one of the areas most popular duos.

DCP has become a local favorite for three reasons.  First, they always put on a good show! Second, is their musical choices. They

play just about anything. Plus if they don’t know a song that you request, they will learn it. Sometimes right on the spot!

Third, they sound like MORE THAN TWO GUYS ONSTAGE. Ask anyone who has seen them play! DCP achieves this without technology (for example: backing tracks, loop stations) It’s AMAZING!

Catch them around town at; American Fish Co., The River Hotel of Southport,  The Pub of Southport, The Haven, Rusty Hooks, Second Wind, 49th Street Bar, Grape & Ale, The Moose, The Elks, St. James, Jules BHI and on a float in the Southport Christmas Parade. They also play private events.  DCP is fun to watch and hear! They are also suited to play to all age groups. They are professional, punctual and if they take a break it’s only a ten minute break! DCP shows up to play!  if you haven’t seen them play yet, You should really get to a show!  Find them on Facebook as Double Cherry Pie. Reach out to us on Facebook or call Scott at 717-805-7670

THE FORD PROJECT: FEMALE DRIVEN ROCK N ROLL!

Lorna Ford - Lead Vocals

Steven Tabankin- Guitar & Vocals

Dennis Hetzel - Bass & Vocals

Norm Weiss - Harp

Hailing primarily from Winding River Plantation (Supply) and Leland, The Ford Project brings a refreshing mix of Classic Rock , Country and contemporary music driven by lead singer Lorna Ford’s dynamic vocal styling.

Covering artists ranging from Heart, Bonnie

Raitt, Fleetwood Mac, Lady Gaga, Sheryl Crow, Blondie, Miranda Lambert, Kacey Musgraves, Elle King, Grace Potter, Grace Slick, Journey, Dolly and more!

Check out The Ford Project’s summer schedule at our Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/TheFordProject

For booking and information contact: Steven Tabankin 914.772-1216 Stabankin@aol.com

THE BACK PORCH ROCKERS

The Back Porch Rockers formed in 2016, playing a variety of music, including Rock & Roll, Pop, Country, Beach, and others. The band, based out of Southport, donates their talents, performing for legitimate non-profits and local charities around the Southeastern North Carolina region. https://www.facebook.com/BPRrockband

Our Band is made up of folks of various backgrounds and experience levels.

Linda Harlow Guitar and Vocals

Martin Murphy Bass, Guitar and Vocals

Steve Privott Lead Guitar

Larry Moreno Keyboard

Jimbo Baden Drums and Vocals

Ray Richardson Guitar, Harmonica and Vocals

Randy Lewis Guitar and Vocals

DAVE’S NOT HOME

Dave’s Not Home Band features the mellow sounds of classic rock and blues music. Enjoy their danceable tunes as well as nostalgic songs that are sure to bring back great memories. You never know when an original tune will make the playlist too!

Dave’s Not Home is comprised of band members Shawn Duncan (vocals/guitar), Denny Del Prete (drums/background vocals), Timmy Hampton (lead guitar/ keyboards) and a bass player, offering audiences a full range of entertainment.

Dave’s Not Home’s schedule features performances from Wilmington to Myrtle Beach plus everything in between, including many local establishments, private parties and events. Their sound exudes a wealth of experience from musicians who have been performing their entire lives and can’t wait to entertain you. So put on your dancing shoes as they love to see you on the dance floor showing off your best dance moves!

For booking information contact Denny Del Prete at 954-243-6908.

A CLASS ACT

A Class Act is a dance band playing Top 20 songs from the 60s to the 2000s with a concentration in Classic Rock, Beach, Motown and Country music.

Dr. Tom Posio - Saxophone, Flute Lead Vocals

Cindy Young- Keyboardist, Lead Vocals

Bill Coffey - Bass Guitar, Lead Vocals

Sam Falvo - Drums

Cindy, Tom and Bill create a signature fresh sound with tight harmonies and beautiful vocals which you won’t soon forget. The band presents a professional stage presence, engaging their audience for a fun, entertaining performance.

Call Tom at 910-477-6015 or Sam at 732-233-6439 for rates and availability. For photos, video and their schedule, go to www.ClassActNC.com and our FaceBook Page A Class Act

SALTY DAWGS

SALTY DAWGS are a 7-member local, band that offers a huge variety of music featuring Classic Rock, Motown, Country, Blues, Funk and Pop from the 60s to present day. Our goal is to have the crowd up dancing, singing along, and having a great time! We even have a mobile “Dawg House” trailer that is fully equipped with electricity, lights, and a professional stage. This allows us to perform anywhere! It’s perfect for parking lots, big outdoor areas, parks, and neighborhood gatherings!

To find out more about the Salty Dawgs please visit our FB page: SaltyDawgsBandNC Or visit our website: SaltyDawgsNC.com

We are currently booking for the season. Please email roaboe@yahoo.com for more information.

BURDETTE TRIO

We are called the Burdette Trio and are made up of acoustic guitarist/lead vocalist, Emily Burdette, harmony vocalist Jordan Hughes, and drummer Jason Cecil.

Emily Burdette began performing about a decade ago as a solo act. Shows are made up of mostly covers, but in the past few years, she has added more and more originals to the sets. Burdette co-founded a series in Wilmington called Voice & the Pen to try to bring the music community together more and really push artists to write their own songs. Burdette met Jordan Hughes in 2020 and they began performing together as a duo about a year later. They have released songs on streaming platforms together including singles, “Let’s

Quit Our Jobs” and “Safe With You.” They met Jason Cecil at Brunswick Beer Xchange where Emily hosts an open mic. Cecil started showing up with his cajon to add percussion to the open mic participants’ sets. The trio have been great friends for about two years now and the audience response to their shows is always fantastic.

The trio typically plays at Fermental in Wilmington. You can catch them on June 13 at Palate (also in Wilmington.). Emily and Jordan are frequent players at Solar Brewing in Oak

TRILOGY

Tasty Tunes

Community

Island as well. The full schedule can be found on www.emilyburdette.com for solo, duo, and trio shows.

RYAN RUBICH

Ryan Rubich is a prolific rock singer/songwriter based in Jacksonville by way of Houston, TX. With 20 years of music experience and nearly a decade of touring under his belt, Ryan is no stranger to the stage—and he provides a unique and compelling perspective to his songwriting and performances.

From a young age, Ryan was always passionate about music. At age 16, he was teaching guitar to 25 students a week before studying jazz at Lone Star College in Houston. It was there in Texas that he began hitting the strip, gigging nightly and establishing himself in the rich music scene of Austin for the next four years.

Ryan is also no stranger to struggle. His journey has brought him through many ups and downs, from living in his car on the street to four years spent running from the law. Ryan’s unique story of hardship and redemption has made his passion crystal clear through his music.

Currently, Ryan is working with producer Mike Corrado and preparing for the release of his debut EP “Find Your Way”—a lyrical dive into love and lust, things lost and found. In the meantime, you can find Ryan Rubich, the “stringer and singer,” touring the Southeast full-time—further establishing himself as one of the true troubadours of our time.

• https://ryanrubich.com/

• https://www.facebook.com/ryanrubichmusic?mibextid=LQQJ4d

• https://www.instagram.com/bluestunna_?igsh=OGF0YmZtYmt2cmdq&utm_ source=qr

JAMBRONI

Members: Mike Barbee

Jambroni is a Southport native and is a one-man jam band/loop artist that incorporates original jams with jazz improvisation and covers of classic songs from the 60s-70s using guitars and percussion. Every performance is unique and you’ll never hear the same set twice! Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Santana — if these names ring a bell then you’ll love Jambroni!

Schedule:

The Dinghy of Isle of Palms - June 13 7 pm

Brewha  July  6 7-9p

August 2 7-9 pm

Haven-  June 21 5-8p

August 17 5-8 pm

October 5 5-8 pm

December 6 5-8 pm

Fermental- June 6 6 pm

July 19 7 pm

September 20 7 pm

October 26 7 pm

Website/social:

https://themicbexperience.bandzoogle.com/shows?calendar_page=1 https://www.facebook.com/share/5pL5HTTrBNPE4QVX/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

https://www.instagram.com/_jambroni_?igsh=MTZjcWpxeWx6OXlscg%3D%3D&utm_ source=qr

Contact:

Phone: 910-515-4036

Email: muraseem@gmail.com

THE CRUISE BROTHER BAND

The Cruise Brother Band is a four-piece band. We play Motown, Country and Beach. Thank you in advance for any help for future bookings! Rick Gardner 910-452-5478

SARAH BROWN (SOLO ACT) EARTH TONES (DUO ACT)

Members: Sarah Brown and Norm Gray

Bio: My Duo partner (Norm Gray) and I (Sarah Brown) have played in multiple bands. We are a piano, guitar and vocal duo. We both have played at several venues around Wilmington and other venues out of state and in state! We play an eclectic mix from classic rock to modern country, we sound like a bit of blues vocals Norah Jones mixed with Florence and the Machine style sound! My contact info is below!

Website: https://bysarahb.wixsite.com/bysarahb Contact info:  bysarahb@gmail.com 406-261-3735

Instagram @bysarahb444 or @earthtonesilm YouTube.com/user/bysarahb

STILL KICKING

“Donna P” (Donna Pietrogiacomo) and Dennis Hetzel

Donna and Dennis met in the Wilmington-based band “MoSun” before forming their “Still Kicking” duo. They perform an eclectic blend of Americana, country and classic rock songs from a wide range of artists including The Band, Green Day, Wilco, Zac Brown Band, Blackberry Smoke, the Eagles, Train, Grace Potter, Kenny Chesney, the Mavericks, the BeeGees and the Avett Brothers. You also can catch Donna and Dennis regularly performing with The Ford Project.

Schedule: June 26, Gio Fund Event Center, Leland, 6-9 pm. Other local venues where they’ve recently performed include Rusty Hooks in Southport, Winding River Plantation, the Brunswick Beer XChange in Leland, Lou’s Lou’s in Holden Beach and the Trolley Stop in Holden Beach.

Community

Booking info: Dennis Hetzel, 614-940-5067, drhetzel@gmail.com

On Facebook: facebook.com/DonnaPietroGuitarGirl

DEEP CREEK SOUL

Mike Mitchem - Lead Guitar

Joey Walton - Bass

Sandra Waddell - Lead Vocals

Scott Pease - Drums

Based in Southport

Specializing in rock, blues, soul and everything in between! Deep Creek Soul has crafted a distinct, dynamic sound that engages audiences of all ages and musical tastes. This blend of music with tight, hard-hitting beats, soaring vocals and dynamic transitions are the hallmarks that have made Deep Creek Soul a local favorite. For Schedule visit:  https://www.facebook.com/deepcreeksoul

Check out Deep Creek Soul on You Tube

For booking contact Mike at deepcreeksoul@gmail.com or 843-324-6284 or message thru Facebook.

THE OLD SCHOOL

THE OLD SCHOOL is a duo of Dennis and Charlyn Dougherty. They specialize in  Folk/ Rock music from the 60s,70s, and 80s. Dennis plays guitar and sings, but says their secret weapon is Charlyn on accordion and keyboards. You’ll hear songs by The Dave Clark Five, The Rascals, Donovan along with Beatles, Tom Petty and whatever else pops into Dennis’ head. “We throw in an original song here and there just to see if I still have it. The beauty of doing your own tunes is that nobody knows when you make a mistake!” Charlyn says,

“We love these songs we grew up with and we think you will too.”

A side gig for them is a fun project called, THE POP-IN SINGERS.  The concept is Sing Along/Group Karaoke. Dennis and Charlyn provide the backup band and everybody gets to sing. Our motto is, “You don’t have to sing good, to have a great time!” Between the Wine, Beer, and Frozen Yogurt, you’ll be singing and laughing. It’s all about having fun! It takes place at Southport Suzie’s; check their schedule for future events.

Community

Dennis and Charlyn are also founding members of a new acoustic listening venue, SOUTHPORT UNPLUGGED, an offspring of Up Your Arts. With a focus on original and traditional music, we provide a place for songwriters of all levels to perform for an attentive group of like-minded musicians. We encourage you to come to The Indian Trail Meeting Hall in Southport to sing your songs or to listen to local acoustic music. More information is available at https://www.upyourarts.org or email SouthportUnplugged@gmail.com

Contact:

Find us on Facebook “Trip McCool and The Old School”

THE OLD SCHOOL2024@gmail.com or charlyndougherty@gmail.com

THE POP-IN SINGERS: charlyndougherty@gmail.com

SOUTHPORT UNPLUGGED: SouthportUnplugged@gmail.com

LUNASEA

Janice Pederson - Vocals

Ben White - Guitar and Vocals

Bob Gentile - Bass and Vocals

Spence Hayden - Keyboards and Vocals

Steve Privott - Lead Guitar

Maxie Washington - Trumpet

Juliann Knott - Saxophone

Tom Daniels - Trombone

Rick Kranz - Drums

LunaSea, a rock and soul band featuring a vibrant horn section, is an award-winning ensemble renowned for their infectious energy and captivating performances. With a diverse repertoire spanning rock, funk, soul, and more, LunaSea delivers an unforgettable experience tailored to every audience. LunaSea guarantees an electrifying show filled with dynamic arrangements and irresistible grooves. Whether you’re a fan of classic hits or crave something fresh and exciting, LunaSea promises a night of entertainment that will leave you wanting more. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of LunaSea live!

Schedule:

Sat June 8, 8-11 - Hawaiian Luau Block Party - Outdoors at The Tiki Tavern

Fri  June 14, 6:30-8 - Ocean Isle Beach Summer Series

Tue July  2,  7-10 - Southport 4th of July Week Celebration

Sat  Aug  17, 6-9 - Marina Grill Wilmington - Saturday Sunset Series on the Water

Fri  Aug 23,  6:30 - 8:30 - Middleton Park Oak Island Summer Series

Sat Nov 2,  8-11 - Halloween Costume Bash - The Tiki Tavern

Contact Info:

Website: www.lunasearockers.com

Booking: Rick Kranz 516-404-4136

AUDIOMELT

Audiomelt is comprised of singer Landon Clark of Bolivia, drummer Josh Cook of Leland, guitarist Nico Holt and bassist Owen Wasterval both of Wilmington.  Four young men blending the old school sounds of the grunge era with more technical sounds of modern metal with a mix of both covers and originals with the goal to deliver an unforgettable live show to a city near you!

Collectively, they have rocked stages throughout the Coastal Carolina’s.  They have all studied music under the instruction of some of the finest musicians in the industry ranging from some of the Carolina’s finest to Berklee College of Music in Boston and from members of some of the top rock bands in the industry.

In October 2022 they joined author Jeff Kinney on the Diary of a Wimpy Kid “Diper Överlöde” book tour where they performed as the real life “Löded Diper” from the book series.  This tour brought them to stages in Nashville, Memphis and Jackson, MS.

EVENTS

June

SAT 6/15 Captain Archie’s - Little River, SC

SAT 6/22 BBX - Leland, NC

SAT 6/29  Rockingham Dragway - Rock around and Find out -  Rockingham, NC -

July

FRI 7/19 Seven Mile Post - Wilmington

FRI 7/26 Ogden Tap Room - Wilmington

August

SUN 8/18 Jimmy’s - Wrightsville Beach

THURS 8/22 Jimmy’s - Wrightsville Beach

September

FRI 9/27 Jimmy’s - Wrightsville Beach

SAT 9/28 Bourbon Street - Wilmington

October

SAT 10/19 Jimmy’s - Wrightsville Beach

November

SAT 11/9 Jimmy’s- Wrightsville Beach December

SAT 12/14 Jimmy’s - Wrightsville Beach

Socials @audiomelt | www.Audiomelt.net

For booking contact Sara 910-508-2264 Audiomelt@hotmail.com

JOHN TOPPINGS - DESPERADO

John Toppings

I started my music around 5 years old  learning to play bass so I could play more music with my Dad. That led to many gigs as a youngster on stage playing classic country.   picked up guitar and started singing while in high school. I have continued with music while maintaining a successful career as an Air Traffic Controller.

My main style of music is Easy Listiening 70s. I cover artists such as Eagles, CSN, America and mix in many one hit wonders like Lobo, Sammy Johns. However, during the show you might hear Prince, Beatles, Santana or Matchbox 20.

“I love music, entertaining and the energy from the fans. I thank all who have been part of my history.” —JT

Venues:  Local’s Tavern.  Brunswick Beer and Cider, Scapegoat Taproom, The Haven of Southport, Sunset Beach Pier

Website Calendar   www.dsprado.com

52ND STREET BAND

Community

Just like many communities, the people of Oak Island’s 52nd Street started a mini gathering on the beach. During conversations, four individuals discovered their mutual interest in playing music and decided to form a band. They became the original members of the 52nd Street Band. They held their first jam session in a garage, which quickly drew attention from passersby. This marked the beginning of their musical journey. For the next two years, the band played under various houses on the street for almost every holiday, performing classic rock. About three years ago, the Elks Lodge approached them for a more formal public concert, which marked another beginning. The band is now performing several times a month. This year, the band won the “People’s Choice” award as the “Best Local Band” in the Brunswick Marketplace. They have also been recording one original song called “OKIin’,” which is about their beautiful island paradise and will soon be released. What excites the band most is “Crew 52,” which is what they call their fans who come to their performances. They love interacting with their fans through singing and dancing. Stay safe and ROCK ON!

Who’s in the Band

Tom Bowman, musical director, guitarist, and vocals

Sharon Black, the lead singer

Kurt Kulpa, the other guitarist

COMMUNITY

T.L. Smith, the bass player Randy Case, the drummer

SECOND WIND, OAK ISLAND, SAT, JUN 1

AMERICAN FISH, SOUTHPORT, FRI, JUN 7

GARRISON LAWN, SOUTHPORT

(Southport Concert Series) SUN, JUN 9

SECOND WIND, OAK ISLAND, SAT, JUL 13

LONERIDER, OAK ISLAND, SAT, JUL 27

MOOSE LODGE, OAK ISLAND, FRI, AUG 9

AMERICAN FISH, SOUTHPORT, FRI, AUG 23

49th STREET BAR & GRILLE

OAK ISLAND, FRI, Aug 30

SECOND WIND, OAK ISLAND, SUN, SEPT 1

MIDDLETON PARK, OAK ISLAND, SAT, OCT 12

(Oak Island Live & Local Music Series)

MOOSE LODGE, FRI, NOV 1

KEN SCHNEDETZ – SINGER/SONGWRITER & ACOUSTIC GUITAR.

NORM WEISS ON HARMONICA WHEN AVAILABLE.

Ken is a solo guitarist, singer/songwriter residing at Oak Island. His mix of cover tunes include Van Morrison, David Gray, Eric Clapton, Tom Petty, Colin Hay, Rob Thomas and more. In addition to cover tunes, Ken blends in his original songs; resulting in a relaxing, engaging and entertaining experience. His style and sound are best suited for smaller venues, restaurants, bars and private events. Ken released a six song CD in 2020 titled “Love Is A Real Thing.” His original works capture life experienc- es, emotions and adventures that tell stories that are relatable, melodic and captivating to the audience. Ken’s original songs are available on Spotify, iTunes, Pandora and on CD.

Local venues:

Grape & Ale - Oak Island and Southport

Haven - Southport

Lapolena - Southport

Southport Susie’s - Oak Island

Brunswick Beer & Cider - Leland

GIO Fund - Leland

Crossroads - Oak Island

Rusty Hook - Southport

Booking Information:

Ken Schnedetz

704-965-8026

schnedetz@aol.com Facebook, Instagram

CMB

Christine Martinez Lead-vocals/guitar

Ronnie Weinstein-Keys

Kevin Rogers-guitar

Jamie Overton-drums

Bert Linton-bass

CMB is a dynamic and hardworking 5-piece band that loves what they do! Fronted by long-time radio personality, Christine Martinez, they take you on a ride

COMMUNITY

of songs you know and love, yet don’t hear all the time; bringing something special to each show!

NOWCAT

Featuring Shelia Bell on vocals and percussion and Richard D’Anjolell on vocals and guitar.

Nowcat is a jam band with an ever-changing cast of support including Gene Faller on drums, Scott Dilley on bass, and Spence Hayden on keys. The “purrr-fect” soundtrack. NOWCAT performs and writes music. Entertaining crowds everywhere they go, Nowcat delivers a variety of hit songs from the 20th and 21st Centuries. Americana, Rock, and Rhythm sprinkled with original catchy power pop. Nowcat performs throughout the East Coast. Their music is available on most streaming platforms. The debut release, “MEOW,” produced by Joe “the butcher” Nicolo established Nowcat as a crowd pleaser. Songs like “Supper’s on Sunday,” Nowcat’s theme song, and their re-imagination of “Jackson” made famous by Johnny Cash and June Carter have been hits. The current Summer single, UR, from their second studio recording “The Dunes Have Ears” was produced by Jamie Hoover in Southport.

www.nowcat.us, @nowcatmusic nowcat@musicrd.com  -910-279-2398 for press or booking.

Friday, June 7, 2024

Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill

Saturday, June 15, 2024

Southport Suzie’s

Saturday, June 29th, 2024

July 4th Event 10K Run

Whitler’s Bench

Saturday, July 6, 2024

49th Street Grill Bar & Patio

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Duffers Pub and Grille

Friday, August 2, 2024

Platos Restaurant & Bar

2 Rosa

Saturday, August 10, 2024

Southport Suzie’s

Saturday, August 17, 2024

Duffers Pub and Grille

Friday, August 23, 2024

Oak Island Moose Lodge

Thursday, August 29, 2024

River Hotel Of Southport

Saturday, September 7, 2024

Platos Restaurant & Bar

Saturday, September 14, 2024

Oak Island Elks Lodge

Saturday, September 28, 2024

Duffers Pub and Grille

Sunday, September 29, 2024

Old American Fish Company

Saturday, October 5, 2024

The Grape & Ale

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Duffers Pub and Grille

Saturday, October 19, 2024

Southport Suzie’s

Saturday, December 14, 2024

Platos Restaurant & Bar

TODD BEANE MUSIC

Todd Beane facebook.com/ToddBeaneMusic

Music experience of 25 years playing in various bands, church praise groups, community organization events and solos. I am a solo artist playing jazz, funk, soul, and rock instrumentals to take your event, party or get together to the next level!

Photos and schedule available at facebook.com/ToddBeaneMusic

THE SANDY BRANCH BAND

Home Base:  Winding River Plantation (Supply)

Ken Morgan - Banjo & Vocals

Jeff Eubanks - Mandolin & Vocals

Steven Tabankin - Guitar & Vocals

Scott Dilley: Bass & Vocals

The Sandy Branch band offers up the best of traditional bluegrass and “newgrass” tunes.

The songs are instantly recognizable and offer up a fun evening of music, perfect for line dancing or simply chillin and listening.

Covering tunes from: Earl Scruggs, Bill Monroe, The Stanley Brothers to Steve Earle, Chris Stapleton, Gillian Welch, John Denver, The Beatles, The Byrds, John Prine and others.

For a list of upcoming dates or bookings, contact: Steven Tabankin: Stabankin@aol.com

•

Community Southport Unplugged

Musicians Gather To Share Their Music

STORY BY JEFFREY STITES

Our community has a rich musical culture. But even here, it can be difficult to get good, honest feedback from other musicians. Up Your Arts’ new Southport Unplugged program aims to help local songwriters and performers perfect their craft by performing their songs for other local musicians. We spoke to Up Your Arts board member Dawn Drabble about the new showcase.

How does Southport Unplugged work?

Southport Unplugged is a gathering of like-minded individuals who write and perform their own original songs. It’s not only music, though. Any original poetry is also welcome to be presented, as well as traditional/folk music, such as shanty songs that were prevalent in the history of the area.

The group formed in November of 2023, via Facebook, with a call for interest in creating the right environment for original artists performing their pieces to an audience in a “listening room” atmosphere. This equates to no televisions, pool tables, or group socializing (during performances) so that the audience can hear what the artist is sharing.

Who is this event for?

This group is for anyone, any age, any level, who wishes to share what they have created with an appreciative audience. The event is FREE and all are welcome to attend.

How often do you meet?

Currently, we have monthly events throughout the summer season, up through October, with an Open Mic for anyone to come in, sign up and perform. We are meeting Sunday, 2-4 pm through October. Dates: June 23, July 14, August 18, Sept 22, Oct 20.

As this is a project in the Up Your Arts organization, we meet at the Indian Trail Meeting Hall, 113 W. Moore St, which is a building owned by the City of Southport that is made available to non-profit organizations, such as UYA.

What do artists get out of performing for other artists?

The artists involved have set their experiences to lyrics and music that reflects their lives, loves, and moments of time, and they perform it for others. Artists attending and listening can learn from how others perform, their styles, techniques and introductions to their backstories. It introduces and fosters a camaraderie between the performers, as they each know what it took for someone to create what they are delivering.

What sort of music is this focused on?

This is all original artists singing/reciting/ performing original songs, prose and poetry. Some may call it folk music, some a little bit country, definitely story telling.

How has the response been so far?

Our initial event took place in January with only word of mouth by those individuals who expressed interest in November. We created a “showcase” where we took six performers and scheduled three songs each that filled a two and half hour time slot. It was well attended by other group members, friends and family, and appeared it would become a successful continuing project.

What was the genesis of this idea?

Up Your Arts used an Open Mic night at American Fish, in Southport, specifically for singer/songwriters. It was very well attended by many artists who currently perform in local bands, singing/playing covers. I knew this was something quite desirable for the area.

In 2023, Dennis Dougherty, of The Old School Duo, reached out to John Keiffer

(UYA Board Member) who does a tremendous job at organizing music around the City of Southport on behalf of UYA. John mentioned it to me, I connected with Dennis who started communications on Facebook, calling singer/songwriters and folk musicians to meet and discuss what-ifs, objectives, and how to take our first steps. We needed a place for performers to be heard. This meant no TVs, no pool tables, just an attending audience ready to listen. As I was on the board of directors of UYA at the time, and we would meet in the Indian Trail Meeting Hall, I presented the idea to the board to take on and support Southport Unplugged. The board unanimously welcomed and fully supported the idea. This allowed us to use the Indian Trail Meeting Hall for our events which, based upon feedback by all performers and attendees, all agree it’s the perfect location.

How do people get involved?

I post communications of Southport Unplugged events on Facebook, or via UYA website, music calendar and the Southport Arts & Music Facebook page. Once out there, I share it from my personal page and welcome all musicians to do the same to spread the word. If anyone is interested in adding their email to the member group, they can do so by sending an email to southportunplugged@gmail.com with name and contact information. That puts them on the contact list (always bcc’d) for

any correspondence from SU as well as providing their interest in performing.

Bring the whole family and join us for a fun-filled ride through Southport’s historic waterfront district aboard our state-of-the-art tram!

One Hour Tour Covering:

• History and Culture

• Movie Locations

• Spectacular Coastal Views

• Shopping and Dining

Reservations Advised

Tour departs from Southport Visitors Center • 203 E. Bay Street 910-713-3373

www.southportfuntours.com

Dennis Dougherty, of The Old School, had an idea that turned into Southport Unplugged

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FISHING REPORT

June Fishing Report

Summer Brings Opportunities For Big Bites

BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK

As I sit here in Hatteras, getting ready for a marlin tournament and watching the rain work its way across the Pamlico Sound, it dawns on me, summer is here and so is REALLY fun fishing. It seems like yesterday we were talking about cold weather, wind, and the summer fishing that was just around the corner. Well folks, the summer weather patterns are definitely here now, and will afford anglers ample opportunities to seek out some truly exhilarating bites.

BACKWATER

Backwater fishing is excellent right now. There are plenty of upper slot sized red drum in the backwater and they can be found in the mouths of secondary marsh creeks on the falling tide where they are waiting for an easy meal to be flushed out with the tide. This fishing is bound to generate excitement as large redfish on light tackle challenge any angler’s skill.

Flounder have also moved in for the summer and although we are still under a state-mandated closure for flounder, they are always a blast to catch and release. Using live bait with Carolina rigs is the preferred method for catching these aggressive feeders. You can purchase mud minnows at most of the local tackle shops or catch your own live bait by looking for “peanut pogies,” small menhaden, in Dutchman Creek, as well as most of the area marinas or in the Waterway near the Yacht Basin in Southport.

While flounder can be found all around our waters, the Southport waterfront re-

mains a popular spot to hook one of your own. However, be prepared to lose a fair number of hooks and weights due to the large rocks along the river, though these same rocks are what attract the flounder.

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

the beach around big schools of pogies, so don’t forget to bring your spinning rod outfitted with a bucktail jig with a big, plastic swimming tail. When you see them, cast the bucktail in front of them (as close to their nose as possible) and jig it to elicit the bite. Once the cobia is hooked, hold on for a great fight and incredible table fare.

OFFSHORE

If you are thinking about hitting the

NEARSHORE

Nearshore fishing is also firing on all cylinders right now. The Spanish mackerel are thick along the beach and can be caught by trolling at 4-6 knots with clarkspoons behind a #1 or #2 planer with around 30-feet of 20-pound leader. Look for the birds working and once you find them circle the school and you will catch all you want to eat.

There will also be cobia off

Gulf Stream for some offshore fishing, it’s a great time to do so, however don’t wait too long. The Gulf Stream fishing in our area begins to slow down toward the end of June as the water gets too warm, causing the fish to push north to cooler waters. The mahi-mahi, a favorite amongst many anglers, will push in to the 20 to 40-mile range offshore and can be found by looking for weed lines and color changes near the Frying Pan Tower.

But this time of year, the primary species that most people are targeting is the king mackerel. These fish are fun to catch due to their exciting and explosive runs after aggressively biting the bait. Although the spring beach king bite is over, the kings can now be found in the range of 11-30 miles offshore. Popular places to catch kings include Lighthouse Rocks, the Shark Hole and Horseshoe. You can use the same wire king rig whether you are using live bait (pogies) or dead bait (cigar minnows or jigger ballyhoo) and trolling as slowly as you can which allows the bait to present as natural as possible. I highly recommend having a box of cigar minnows regardless because occasionally the pogies are difficult to find — nothing ruins a day worse than spending the entire day looking for bait.

Same as our nearshore recommendation, be sure to take your spinning rod with the bucktail rig offshore for cobia. I cannot tell you how many times I have caught a curious cobia that came up behind the boat to check out the prop wash bait. The key to capitalizing on cobia is as simple as keeping that spinning rod ready to go.

Enjoy getting out on the water and cheers to tight lines!!!

Captain Steele

Showcase

Featured Artists

Franklin Square Gallery In Southport

STORY CONTRIBUTED

Franklin Square Gallery will honor featured artists through June 20 with displays of their art at the Gallery. In addition, painter Caroline Brizzolera and potter Cheryl Rogers will be on hand to share insight on their work at the Gallery’s First Friday event on June 7, from 5-7 pm. Visitors can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine as they meet the artists, discover their artwork, and view the other paintings and ceramic work on display throughout the Gallery.

Coming from northern New Jersey, 2D Featured Artist Caroline Brizzolera earned a B.A. in art from Rutgers University and an M.A. in painting from Montclair State College. Caroline taught high school studio art for two decades. She then returned to school, obtaining a law degree and following that career for an equal stretch. She

returned to her art career upon retiring and moving to Southport.

Working primarily in pastels and acrylics, Caroline also experiments with watercolors and photography. An active member of Franklin Square Gallery, she exhibits there, at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, and Wilmington

Art Association shows. Caroline has studied with noted figurative painter Joan Semmel, abstract expressionist and figurative painter Miriam Beerman, master lithographer Judith Solodkin, art historian and painter Robert G. Bradshaw, photographer Amy Stromsten, and American poet Adrienne Rich. Caroline says of her work, “For me, the act of really seeing makes the thing seen a wonder, and the person doing the seeing, blessed. That’s what I experience when I am painting and it is life-giving. That’s why I do it, and what I hope the viewer experiences when looking at my work.”

Cheryl Rogers, 3D Featured Artist, took up clay art after 20 years in the design field, transitioning from fashion to functional pottery. Originally from California, Cheryl’s work in the fashion industry included design of children’s clothing. Today, she creates one-of-akind ceramic pieces that are carefully engineered to achieve the right fit, as did her fashion work.

Cheryl is known as “Aunt Ducks” to those who work in clay, and those who appreciate its potential.  Her work combines precision and humor and celebrates color. Her attention to the science side of pottery is reflected in the study and testing undertaken with glaze, underglaze, and clay type for each project.

Franklin Square Gallery, home of the Associated Artists of Southport, is a cooperative of more than 120 artists, and is currently accepting applications for new members. It is located at 130 E. West Street in the heart of historic downtown Southport, NC. With support from the Brunswick Arts Council ARPA Program, a Designated County Partner of the North Carolina Arts Council, the Gallery embodies the rich artistic culture that thrives in Southport. It offers original art and pottery for sale and is open to the public, free of charge, from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Change of Command

Battleship North Carolina’s New Director

STORY CONTRIBUTED

There’s been a change in command for the USS NORTH CAROLI-

NA as Dr. Jay Martin was appointed the new executive director of the Battleship North Carolina effective May 31, according to the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Martin takes over the role from Captain Terry Bragg, who retired June 1.

“Dr. Martin’s extensive background in maritime history, historic preservation and archaeology will bring an enhanced focus to telling the Battleship’s story for its thousands of annual visitors,” said Reid Wilson, secretary of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. “We thank Captain Bragg for his service to the Battleship for the past 15 years, and we wish him well in his retirement.”

Dr. Martin is a 40-year veteran of historical endeavors and a specialist in maritime history. He has served as the chief administrator for several museums, and most recently served as director and curator of the Central Michigan University Museum of Cultural and Natural History/Gerald Poor School House Museum and director of the Museum Studies Program.

Dr. Martin has taught American, maritime, military, and public history at var-

ious institutions and his specialty in historic preservation and cultural resource management has included the research, restoration, and interpretation of multiple historic ships, overland vehicles, and structures.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in public history from Western Michigan University along with a master’s degree in American Studies and a Ph.D. in history from Bowling Green State University.

Captain Terry Bragg has served as executive director of the Battleship North Carolina since March 2009. Before joining the Battleship as executive director, Captain Bragg spent 30 years in the naval services with sub-specialties in financial management, procurement, and anti-submarine warfare.

During his time as executive director, Bragg spearheaded projects that repaired extensive corrosion damage to the battleship hull, built the cofferdam to ensure continuous hull maintenance, built the public SECU Memorial walkway that encircles the Battleship, and started the Living with Water project to counter the effects of climate change.

About the Battleship North Carolina

The U.S.S. North Carolina is a decommissioned World War II battle-

ship, permanently moored as a memorial and state historic site in Wilmington on the Cape Fear River. The retired battleship serves as commemoration of the

https://battleshipnc. com/.

heroism of U.S. sailors and soldiers from North Carolina during World War II. Learn more at

Award Winners!

Southport-Oak Island Chamber

In 2023, The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce accepted nominations for its annual business awards: Small Business of the Year and Non-Profit Organization of the Year. Businesses which received a Golden Pineapple — a quarterly customer service recognition award — in the previous four quarters were eligible to compete for the Small Business Customer Service of the Year.

Once nominated, the qualifying business or non-profit was required to submit a nomination packet, which was then presented to April Scott, Director of Brunswick Community College Small Business Center for her review and recommendations.

Teresa Carroll, 2023/2024 Chamber President, Jackie Del Prete, Vice President of Business Development, Bradley Narron and Heather King, Co-Chairs of the Awards Committee, and April Scott, had the honor of making the presentations to the following businesses:

Beginning in July 2024, you may nominate a business or non-profit by visiting the Chamber’s website at www.chambersmallbusinessawards.com.

For more information about the Chamber’s Annual Awards please contact the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce at 910-457-6964, email at Info@southport-oakisland.com or visit the website at www.chambersmallbusinessawards.com

2023/24 Small Business of the Year is Cape Fear Fitness. After 15 years in business, Cape Fear Fitness continues to pay close attention to how they can better serve their customers by adding classes to engage their target market while being open to visitors.  Their dedication to their employees is a continuous effort through incentives, rewards, and training.

2023/24 Non-Profit of the Year is Lower Cape Fear LifeCare. Lower Cape Fear LifeCare collaborates with seven counties in North Carolina and one in South Carolina, serving the needs of more than 1,200 patients daily.  The mission is clear in what they do every day for those living with illness and grief.  Their economic impact is evident with 400 employees, and the coordination of 300 volunteers takes great dedication and team effort.

2023/24 Small Business Customer Service of the Year is Better Beach Rentals & Sales. Better Beach Rentals & Sales initiative to maintain upto-date technology, professional training, and happy employees has proven beneficial to have happy and returning customers.  The question of excellent customer service need little explaining when a customer visits throughout childhood and returns every year with their children because of the great customer service and beauty.

Summer InSouthport

CEREMONY

4th of July

4th of July Festival

Plan Your Visit With Full Schedule of Events

There’s so much more to the NC 4th of July Festival in Southport and Oak Island than a parade and fireworks. From musical entertainment to patriotic events like readings of the Declaration of Independence and a Naturalization Ceremony, there is more to see and do than any one person can take in. So it’s best to plan ahead, and we hope this full schedule of events helps! We’ll see you there!

The following activities are available throughout the Festival:

June 28-July 4

9 am-2 pm American Red Cross Blood Drive, Southport Baptist Church Community Center (By appointment only)

10 am-2 pm Historic Chapel of the Cross Self-Guided Tours, Southport, St. Phillips Church

10 am-4 pm Fort Johnston Visitors Center and Museum

10 am-5 pm NC Maritime Museum, Southport

June 29-July 4

10 am-2 pm (except Sunday, June 30) Historic Chapel of the Cross Self-Guided Tours, Southport, St. Phillips Church

10 am-6 pm 9/11 Remembered Traveling Memorial, Nash Street

12 pm-5 pm Summer Regional Art Show, Southport, Franklin Square Gallery.

July 2-4

11 am-10 pm Food Concessions.

11 am-7 pm Arts & Crafts, Southport Southport Waterfront

July 3-4

12:30-3:30 pm Old Brunswick Jail Open, Southport, Corner of N. Rhett Street/E. Nash Street.

Daily Events

Friday, June 28

6:00 pm Welcoming Ceremony, Southport, Fort Johnston Visitor Center Lawn

6 pm Flyover, Southport Waterfront

6:15 pm Reading of the Declaration of Independence, Southport, Fort Johnston Visitor Center Lawn

6:30 pm 440th Army Band, Fort Johnston Visitor Center Lawn

Saturday, June 29th

8-10 am Freedom Run 5k-1 mile, Southport Waterfront

2 pm & 6 pm AMUZU Theatre & Over the River Theatre Company presents: “The Complete History of America” - Free to all. AMUZU Theatre, Southport.

10 am-5 pm Summer Regional Art Show, Southport, Franklin Square Gallery

3 pm 38th Annual Fire Fighters Freedom Competition & Apparatus Expo, Southport, Nash St.

3 pm Patriotic Concert, The Sea Notes

Choral Society, Brunswick Community College, Odell Williamson Auditorium

Sunday, June 30

10 am-12 pm - Kite Vendors, Recreation

Paper Plate Kites, Kite-related Vendors, Middleton Park, Oak Island 10:30 am and 11:30 am Kite book readings by Oak Island Recreation Dept., Middleton Park, Oak Island

10:15 am, 10:45 am, 11:15 am & 11:45 am Kite Demonstrations, Middleton Park, Oak Island

12 pm Uncle Sam Skydiving, Beach at 46th Street SE, Oak Island

12-1 pm - Food Vendors, Middleton Park, Oak Island

1-3 pm Live Pro Wrestling-Middleton Park, Oak Island

3 pm Patriotic Concert, The Sea Notes

Choral Society, Brunswick Community College, Odell Williamson Auditorium

4-6 pm Gospel Fest, Fort Johnston Visitor Center Lawn

Monday, July 1st

8 am Beach Day Horseshow Tournament, Oak Island, Middleton Park

10 am Beach Day Registration for Athletic Events, Oak Island, 46th Street SE & Beach Drive.

11 am-2 pm Beach Day Youth Activities

& Contests, Inflatable rides, food and contests, Oak Island, Middleton Park Extension 46th & Dolphin Drive

11 am Beach Day Corn Hole, Bocce Ball & Volleyball tournaments 46th Street SE & Beach Drive access

1 pm Beach Day Sand Sculpture Contest, Oak Island, 46th Street SE & Beach Drive access

5:45 pm Welcoming Ceremony, Oak Island, Middleton Park Extension

6 pm Beach Day Concert, 20 Ride, Oak Island, Middleton Park Extension

9 pm Beach Day City of Oak Island Anniversary Fireworks, Oak Island, Oak Island Pier.

Tuesday July 2

9-10 am Assumption of Command, 596th Transportation Brigade, Military Ocean Terminal, Sunny Point, Southport, Fort Johnston Visitor Center Lawn

9:30-10:30 am S.U.P. Parade-57th St. W. Launch Oak Island

10 am-11 pm Trolley available from Southport Elementary 701 W 9th St. 12 pm-2 pm Children’s Entertainment, Southport, Fort Johnston Visitor Center Lawn, organized by Brunswick Arts Council & Southport Rotary Club

1-3pm Cape Fear Radio Southport, Waterfront Park

3-4pm Brunswick Summer Wind Ensemble. Fort Johnston Visitor Center Lawn.

4 pm Red, White & Blue Freedom Flotilla, Southport, Waterfront Park, organized Cape Fear Yacht Club.

5 pm Reading of the Declaration, Southport, Waterfront Stage

5:30 pm A Salute to Veterans, Letters from Home, Waterfront Stage 7-10 pm Waterfront Stage Entertain-

ment, LunaSea, Southport Waterfront Park.

Wednesday, July 3

9 am Children’s Games, Southport, Waterfront Park Registration opens at 8 am.

10 am - 11pm Trolley available from Southport Elementary 701 W 9th St.

1 pm Flag Retirement Ceremony, Southport, Waterfront Stage. Organized by Richard H. Stewart Jr. American Legion Post 543 and Cape Fear Council of Boy Scouts

1:30 pm 440th Army Band, Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn

2:30-3:45 pm Naturalization Ceremony, Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.

4-6:30 pm Waterfront Stage Entertainment, Southport Waterfront Park-Salty Dawgs.

7-10 pm Waterfront Stage Entertainment & Street Dance, The Embers, Southport Waterfront Park

Thursday, July 4th

7-10 am Pancake Breakfast, Southport, Trinity Methodist Church, 209 E Nash St, Southport. Event of by Trinity United Methodist Church

10-11 pm Trolley available from Southport Elementary 701 W 9th St. 10:15 am Reading of the Declaration, Southport, the intersection of Moore/Howe Streets

10:30 am Flag Raising Ceremony, Southport, The junction of Moore/Howe Streets. Organized by Brunswick Town Fort Anderson.

11 am Festival Parade, Southport, Moore & Howe Streets

12-3pm Cape Fear Radio, Southport, Waterfront Park, Southport.

1 pm Flyover, Southport Waterfront, Southport.

1-3 pm First Responders Vehicle Display, Southport, Waterfront Park Area. Organized City of Southport Fire Department and Police Department.

1-3 pm Military Exhibits, Southport, Waterfront Park, Southport.

3-5 pm Live Pro Wrestling-Southport, Nash Street, Southport.

3-6 pm Waterfront Stage Entertainment, The Doorsmen, Southport Waterfront Park.

7-9 pm Waterfront Stage Entertainment, Liquid Pleasure, Southport Waterfront Park. 9 pm 4th of July Fireworks, Southport, Waterfront Park, Southport.

9:30-10pm Band Returns to Waterfront Stage, Southport, Waterfront Park, Southport.

Keeping Fit

You’re Not Too Old

Fear, Not Old Age, Is The Biggest Obstacle

STORY BY VICTOR FERNANDES

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

I’m too old.” That’s a common refrain from people who often really aren’t that old, about tackling a challenge they say they want to but haven’t done so. I’m here to say let’s be honest and call it what it truly is – fear.

You think that way because you’re too afraid, not too old. You’re too afraid to fail, and that feeling comes without an age requirement. So instead, we attach an excuse to what we’re afraid to do, and we convince ourselves there is nothing we can do to change that so it makes no sense to bother even trying.

I felt that way much more in my 20s and 30s than in my 40s and now 50s.

Yes, I felt physically older in my 20s and 30s, and in turn felt I couldn’t do certain things. In reality, I had already failed myself as I ballooned to nearly 250 pounds and wasn’t carrying myself as the husband, father, and man I wanted to be.

I rarely ate well in those days. Fast food and arena fare were staples of my

diet – and in this case, I use that term loosely – during my sports journalism career since I was always going from one event to another.

Since I was always on the go for work,

I didn’t sleep well either. I often worked past midnight, only to awaken by 6 am to get our kids ready for school.

Both played integral roles in gaining roughly 75 pounds in the decade or so after graduating college in 1993. Given the downward path I traveled at the time, I wholeheartedly believe reaching 300 pounds, even 350 pounds, was in my future.

My mindset was a bigger mess than my physical well-being.

And since we tell ourselves we can’t when we’re in that negative state of mind, we find it much easier to simply

quit before ever beginning.

But deep down in places we would rather not know exist, we know the truth.

We know we have allowed more great opportunities pass us by because we live in fear. Which leads to regret, which weighs heavily on us no matter how much we choose to ignore it. We can fool others in our life, but we can’t fool ourselves.

I will regret not starting to embrace the now mission statement of Fernandes Fit – and that’s to have empowered my personal and professional success through health and fitness many years earlier.

I can only imagine how much further along I would be in life, personally and professionally. I didn’t start my personal health and fitness journey until

Keeping Fit

I was 38 years old, shortly after my youngest son, Zachary, was born, nearly 14 years ago.

If I had begun 10 years earlier, even five years earlier, I could have been 10 or 15 years into helping people empower themselves through their personal journeys to quality health and well-being. I could have helped many more people.

I will take that regret to my grave. But until then, I choose to live life to the fullest…because I’m not too old. As far as I see it, I’m simply getting better with age. You are too. Or at least you can be. You have that choice to make.

You have heard the old adage, “Age is just a number.” But really it’s a state of mind. We can

choose to believe we’re too old to do something, or we can choose to do things in our 50s that we did in our 40s, in our 60s that we did in our 50s, in our 70s that we did in our 60s, and so on.

None of us know how much time we have left. But we do we have time right now.

We should take advantage of it, but it requires developing the mindset to do the work, trusting the process and believing in ourselves.

Otherwise, we’re merely existing in life, not living it.

If you want to learn more about developing a strong mindset that breaks down barriers we have placed in our way, or simply have a conversation about your fitness goals and needs, contact me at 814-504-7774 or info@ fernandesfit.com, or head to fernandesfit.com for more information.

Oak Island On TV

“Battle On The Beach” Airs In June

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LISA STITES

Battle on the Beach” airs this month on HGTV. The show was filmed on Oak Island, so keep an eye out for your favorite spots in town and maybe your friends and neighbors! The premise of the show is pretty straightforward — designers Taniya Nayak of “Build It Forward,” Ty Pennington of “Rock the Block,” and Alison Victoria of “Windy City Rehab” each mentor a team of two for a beach house renovation challenge.

Each team works on a four-bedroom, two bath house, vying for a prize of $50,000. They each have a budget of $100,000 to transform their house. The competitors, Samantha and Sean Kilgore of Richmond, Michigan; Brandon Parker and Teresa Robinson of Norfolk, Virginia; and Kristin and Chyenne Smith of Dallas tackle kitchen, living room, bedroom, bathroom and outdoor renovations.

Though we won’t know who wins until the final episode airs, we can learn more about what it takes to bring a show like this to one of our picturesque towns. Though filming began in February, the production company — Beachfront Productions LLC — began work long before then.

William Grimaldi is a freelance line producer who worked on this series, and he’s been working in the industry on the production side for 11 years. He said for a show like “Battle on the Beach,” pre-production starts a few months before filming.

“The whole process for a season like this is about a year,” he said. “A lot of it is getting the crew together and finding out where they’re going to be staying. It’s not the biggest crew but big enough,” he said. Approximately 40 people came to Oak Island for the couple months of shooting the show. They also need to line up vehicles to rent and figure out logistics such as where the renovation teams can buy supplies.

“My half of the industry is kind of boring, honestly,” William said.

By the time his work starts, William explained, the houses have already been selected, or at least a decision is close; that’s something the network or the production company decides.

Next comes the permitting process, renting accommodations, and getting everything lined up in general. Once filming begins, William said they try to stick to 10-12 hour days, though sometimes in the television industry, crews work 15-16 hour days.

“I know films are more glamorous than TV,” he said.

Though each of the teams had a $100,000 budget, there were opportunities, or challenges, when the teams could earn more. One of those was a carnival. The teams could win free grout with a basket toss game at the “Tossing for Tiles” booth, play

“Ring Around the Faucet” or test their strength for a chance to make a hardware swap or earn additional money for the project. The carnival was set up on the Oak Island Pier. The Pier played host again for part of the finale, which included a fireworks display. In lieu of renting the Pier for the hours it was closed to the general public, the company made donations to the Oak Island Sea Turtle Protection Program and the Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter.

Oak Island has played backdrop for other realty shows, such as “Beachfront Bargain Hunt” and “House Hunters,” other TV shows such as the pilot episode of “Revenge,” and even small parts of movies such as “Iron Man 3” and “Safe Haven.” This show’s production made Oak Island home for the cast and crew for a couple months though, and filming in small coastal communities is much different from doing so in places like New York. William said that the experience

of filming in Oak Island was “overwhelmingly” good.

“It was very smooth,” he said. “Everyone was super cool. A production takes up space. We build a town for a month within your town. Some towns make it a little more difficult. Oak Island was extremely beautiful. I love it.”

Renovations can be unpredictable though, and these on the show are no exception. A trailer for the series shows one of the teams dealing with an unexpected water leak, for example. Plans for filming take unexpected twists too, and the crew must come up with a solution, often without a lot of time or notice.

“We never have one plan, especially as a team, the creative department working with the construction team. We have four or five plans going on. If Plan A doesn’t work out, we have Plan B. You’re just prepared for different things,” William said.

Watch “Battle on the Beach on HGTV” beginning June 3 at 9 pm, and read more about the show at https://www.hgtv.com/ shows/battle-on-the-beach.

• When you’re

• When you’re Welcoming

• When you’re Wondering

• When you’re Working on

Art Beat

I’m With The Band

Carla Edstrom Continues Musical Life

STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

Iam the female lead singer of Catatonic Band. We are a busy professional cover band, playing around 40 gigs last year around Southport, Wilmington, Leland, South Carolina, and surrounding areas. We play in bars, at birthdays, weddings, outside under tents, at large-scale private events, and even in living rooms, adapting to different environments and audiences. Sometimes, we play between rain storms in 40-degree weather, but mostly when it’s 90 degrees in the shade. We have also collaborated on recording together on original projects. You will see us play mainly as a trio, with my lead vocals, Champ Saint Amand playing lead guitar, and Brien Sandstrom playing bass. Drummer Steve Merritt and keyboardist Jeff Hanke sit with us when needed, adding depth and variety to our sound. We are all seasoned musicians who have played music on weekends around busy jobs and careers for all our lives. They are like my brothers, and I appreciate their hard work, advice, patience, and encouragement, which have been instrumental in our journey as a band.

I have lived in Southport since 2005 and have been involved in music here since around 2010 when I performed in five shows at the Amuzu Theater. I have witnessed the music community here undergo a remarkable transformation and growth. Many new bands are forming, and musicians are constantly moving here, adding to the already stellar cast of musicians from the area. I used to be able to identify every musician in town by name. Now, I am constantly meeting new musicians with different levels of experience and talents. We also have groups such as Up Your Arts, which strive to promote and bring music and arts to Southport. And we are so blessed to have such great venues that support us and book us year-round, even outside of tourist season. These changes are a clear sign of the community’s growth and diversity.

community is the support and camaraderie among musicians. For example, musicians will always step up to lend a hand when needed with a broken equipment emergency, help with sound checks, and attend each other’s events. Musicians have stepped up to help venues get started with live music and even book the talent. Or if a community fundraiser is happening to help victims of illness or house fires, everyone comes together to raise money and donate their skills, showing the community’s compassion and solidarity. We have many open mic events around town that have formed musical collaborations and long-time friendships, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. No matter how many people have moved here, Southport has historically maintained a small-town atmosphere. I’m happy to be here.

I was 13. It was for a talent show at a church, and my friend Matt played the piano for me. I remember the nerves, the adrenaline, and the sheer joy of performing. I sang an Amy Grant song, “All I Ever Have to Be.” My sister Pat and my mom came to see me. After the show, Pat knocked on my bedroom door, and the look on her face was that of shock. She said, “You are a singer.” I have never been so empowered in my life. Years of practice, private vocal lessons, school chorus, church bands, and playing flute and piccolo in school bands followed. Music was all I wanted to do. I lived and breathed music. I had found my calling, and it has been a journey of self-discovery, growth, and fulfillment.

sicians. We all have a story that needs to be told. I am a small-town girl who loves to sing and share her story. My band’s story is also similar to many others. All these stories begin with a drive and passion for creating music, and I am grateful to be a part of it.

One of the most beautiful aspects of our

Music has been a driving force in my life since I was a teenager, shaping my identity and providing a platform for self-expression. The first time I sang a solo in public was when

After that first performance, I started singing regularly in a Christian Rock band that played mostly original music. I met a boy who loved to play piano and write music, and we wrote many songs together. Writing and composing music was a journey of creativity, collaboration, and self-expression. We recorded a demo of a couple of songs, a thrilling experience that brought our music to life. Another friend took the cassette to two local Christian radio stations, and they played my songs on air. It was incredible to be 16, riding in my best friend’s car when my song came on the radio for the first time. It was one of the highlights of my life, a moment that encapsulated the joy and fulfillment that music brings.

My experience is not unique compared to that of other mu-

Art History Lecture Series

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Golf Tips

Nicole’s Golf Notes

Good Golf’s Secret Sauce: Pre-Shot Routine

STORY BY NICOLE WELLER LPGA/PGA GOLF TEACHING PROFESSIONAL

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

Watch any sport with high-caliber amateur or professional athletes and you’re sure to see their rituals as they prepare for action. What do you notice prior to a basketball player shooting a free throw, a tennis player getting ready to serve, a baseball player stepping into the batter’s box or a golfer preparing to hit a drive — you see the steps towards a better chance at success!

What is a Pre-Shot Routine?

Routines prior to a golf shot contain physical, mental and most importantly, emotional aspects. The physical aspects of a pre-shot routine are ones that are seen, (i.e. rehearsal swing, the number of steps into the shot from behind or next to the ball, hitching up a shirt sleeve or strapping on a golf glove).

The mental aspects of a pre-shot routine aren’t visible but involve creating a plan and then committing to that plan. Note that I say plan, not worry. Keep the plan objective based on the external variables (weather, ground lie, conditions, state of a match) and internal variables (today’s skill ability).

The emotional aspects of a pre-shot routine dictate whether one is ready inside for the shot and if one can self-manage effectively. Would you rather be worried or be curious about what’s go-

ing to happen? Would you rather be nervous or excited?

I like using the following wonderful chart by Tim Kremer to identify high (positive) and low (negative) vibrating emotions. Yes, emotions actually have vibrating energy! The key is to move up the chart one or two emotions from where you are and frontload (pre-insert) the emotion you want into a shot, not what you inherit because you haven’t managed the incoming emotion. Don’t let an emotion manage you (i.e. guilt, fear, doubt, anger, despair) — you get to own what you want to feel. Many don’t see the need to spend time training the underlying emotional aspect (not as fun for most as compared to changing swing technique and smashing a driver!) yet it would help their games exponentially. Emotions kick off the process, followed by the mental response and

then lastly the action that comes about. It begins within, not with the swing, as that’s just the end result. You can have the best technique in the world but if you aren’t selling yourself on a shot or believing in what you’re about to do, it will crack and show.

My master’s degree thesis, Mental

Skill Interventions for Young Golfers (available through the TRACE library system from U. of Tennessee), contains some interesting stats about routines and their consistency.

* The average amount of time for an overall pre-shot routine from the time it’s one’s turn to hit until the time the club initiates the backswing is 10-20 seconds.

* Of that overall pre-shot routine time, the effective actual window of time over the ball is just 3-9 seconds of that 10-20 overall time…it’s Go Time!

* 80/20: I notice that recreational golfers spend approximately 20 percent of time planning and 80 percent

over the ball while high-caliber golfers spend roughly 80 percent of time planning and 20 percent over the ball…more reaction over the ball and less thinking or cognitive processing.

* Players finishing at the top of the winner’s list in a tournament have preshot routines that vary by a second or less, and that’s a routine routine! Those who finish at the bottom of the list that week may have routines that vary by more than five seconds, hence perhaps more indecisiveness or extra thinking.

Keys to an Effective Pre-Shot Routine

Explore these pre-shot concepts to help with your game:

AT BEST…The last words and image of what’s about to happen before swinging the club should be what’s about to happen At Best (not At Worst). Believing is seeing.

CONTROL…Focus on what’s in your control (nutrition, attire, attention, reaction, decision, where you walk and move, your intention) instead of what’s not in your control (consistent swing mo-

Golf Tips

tion, weather, other players’ comments or actions, how the ball bounces and rolls). Golfers spend too much energy on things that are actually out of their control. Let it go, accept and do what you

have actual control over. Stay in your own lane.

ADVERBS…Step up to a shot with a nice adverb in mind and finish this sentence: “I want to enjoy hitting this shot ________” (happily, smoothly, effortlessly, excitedly, curiously, etc.), and then go do it.

THREE GREEN LIGHTS…Be committed in the mind, heart and gut. If you don’t have green lights in all three areas over a shot, there’s a good chance the doubt will sabotage a good tempo or intention and result in a poor shot. If one of those area has a yellow or red light, stop and reset. I use the analogy of driving a car and not knowing if the brakes are going to work going into an intersection…you have to be sure of what you’re intending to do and believe it. Green lights all the way!

USE STRONG WORDING AND ACTIONS… Remove the words try, hope and possibly from your commitment plan. Use strong words and strong body language, sell yourself on your plan and believe it. Think of how you believe

a national speaker or coach giving a speech who shows conviction, strong language and movement versus one who doesn’t capture your attention. Are you capturing your own attention and belief before a golf shot?

CLOSED-SKILL vs. OPEN-SKILL SPORTS…Golf is a closed-skill sport in which nothing happens until you’re ready, like a serve in tennis or a freethrow in basketball. Other sports that are open-skill have more interaction and less thinking, like an interactive play underway in football, basketball and tennis. Sometimes closed-skill sports allow for more second-guessing and hesitation, so create the plan based on what you know you can do over what you think you can do and then be more reactionary once committed to the task; it’s more important to be committed than correct, you’ll learn.

I love helping people explore their pre-shot routines at the practice facilities and on the course that leads to more successful and fun golf!

Kronenwetter

Wooten

Carneiro

Broussard

Lee Ann Walker

Sherol Lappala

Brian Deutsch

Verilyn McKee Sarah Smith

Brian Quinn Katherine Hufham

Kim Anne Russ Pamela Frandano

Fred Fiss David Thorp Myles Williams

Kim Moss Annabelle Pivarnik

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a d v a n ta g e o f c e rta in ta x b e n e fits . A s e c o n d h o m e is a re s id e n c e th a t y o u in te n d to o c c u p y in a d d itio n to a p rim a ry re s id e n c e fo r p a rt o f th e y e a r. T y p ic a lly , a s e c o n d h o m e is u s e d a s a v a c a tio n h o m e , th o u g h it c o u ld a ls o b e a p ro p e rty th a t y o

Community

Broach To Grandfather’s Wisdom Finally Understood

STORY BY MIKE ROYAL

Son your boat is going to go broach to…” The boy doesn’t hear

“Broach to,” he hears “Brokes to,” the words ringing in his 15-year-old ears in the tone and pitch of his grandfather’s voice. That voice so familiar to him by this time, he could recognize its tonal vibrations in the darkest of darkness. His grandfather’s voice was confident, easy and yet stern too as he wants to make an important point to the boy, his grandson.

Having had three girls, and after offering each of his girls their own chance at his salt life…the boats, the fish, the shrimp and the mysteries of the briny deep…his daughters all sought more genteel and elegant pathways through Southport and their future worlds.

This old salt saw in his grandson the boy he never had and the extension of himself by which he could pass on all the knowledge from years on the water, in the waterways and oceans of this world. A man who had sailed the Pacific Ocean, through the waters of the Marshall Islands and the Solomon Islands, serving his country during World War II. A man who sailed many waters for the National Geodetic Survey as they mapped coastlines and created maritime navigation charts. This was his time to give that knowledge away…freely…with love, its value immensely important to him as he wished to instill the same sense of value to his boy. The boy would come to realize its value, but much later.

One day the boy is re-telling a story of his own, an almost disastrous tale of misadventure in the waters of the Cape Fear River. At 15, many of the boys of Southport had their own small boats or skiffs. Using these skiffs, they scoured the many waterways, creeks and tributaries along the river from Southport to Fort Caswell and Bald Head Island. One thing the boys loved to do was to take their skiffs across the river to do a beach landing maneuver on the shores of Fort Caswell, timed perfectly to seek out beautiful girls who had arrived at Fort

Caswell’s Baptist Assembly for summer camp.

Careful to anchor their boats off the shore to account for tide changes, they would swim or wade in to mingle amongst the campers. Blending in perfectly, they met plenty of girls who seemed to like the daring approach as we freely confessed to our trip by sea and a beach landing any pirate would be proud of. Soda pop at the “Drift Inn” or a dip in the Olympic size pool was always the best bet for striking up a conversation with the girls. After enjoying the day and having a great adventure, it was time to cast off and head home.

We pointed the bow of our boat toward home, Southport. Two boats with four boys, Richard Dowling and Chuck Creech in Richard’s boat, Mike Dosher and I in his boat. Both Chuck and I sat on the bow to aid the boat’s ability to plane. The operators, Richard and Mike Dosher, manned the outboard motors. Unnoticed by us at the time, the river had had a tidal change and the wind had shifted as well, all perfectly set up to cause huge waves in the river channel, which is its deepest part. The roughest and biggest waves were in the middle of the river, aligning themselves within the channel. We could see the rough waters and waves, but they still looked manageable to us.

Chuck and Richard’s boat was probably about 20 yards off our starboard side. Mike Dosher’s boat was a very seaworthy vessel that had a V-shaped

hull and high sides. Bow to stern it probably measured about 16 feet and had a wide beam. Mike’s boat could handle a rough river. Richard’s boat was a smaller flat bottom boat with lower side rails. Bow to stern, I would guess, it measured between 12 and 13 feet in length. This boat was not really meant to do river crossings and especially not in rough seas. As we continued our crossing all seemed to be going as expected. But, as we began to enter the channel with its stronger currents and opposing winds it became more difficult to control our boats and manage the waves.

One problem we were having with the waves was that our angle to cross for home put our stern to the approaching waves which lifted our boats into a sort of wave surfing pattern which diminished control. When our boats were in the trough between waves, all you could see was wall to wall water. As we would descend down the face of the stern wave, our bows would plow into the wave in front and it was the buoyancy of the boat’s bow that would lift the bow up and out of the wave. But this was all unpredictable. We were vulnerable to the wave differences in size and power.

We risked, as my grandfather warned, going “broach to.” As my grandfather had explained “Broach to” is the nautical term that refers to the bow plowing under a wave and sheering left or right turning the boat sideways to the wave, resulting in a roll over. Even our own motor power and angle on the waves was critical. Both boats were being affected by this problem at the same time. The smaller boat was getting it the worst. Right at the midway point across the river, in the middle of the channel, a larger and more powerful wave pushed us stern first and at a steep angle into the wave in front of us. Chuck in Richard’s boat and me in Mike’s boat, both of us still sitting in the bow, went into the bow wave and this time it did not recover and tons of water swept over our bows pushing both Chuck and I back towards the outboard motors and alongside Richard and Mike. It’s at this point I am no longer aware of Chuck and Richard and for the next couple of minutes I am focused on righting and clearing our own boat. Both boats are almost swamped. Mike and I, in the larger boat, have fared better. We have taken on a lot of water but our rails are still high enough out of the water. I’m bailing like a madman. Suddenly I hear a shout out and my mind remembers the other boat, Chuck and Richard. I look over at them and see the distress

A deceptively calm Cape Fear River can turn very ugly very quickly

on their faces. Richard is still manning the controls of his motor while Chuck is bailing like a machine. It’s at that moment I look at the side rails of their boat to see only about two inches of boat rail above the rough sea water line.

We’re all scared and stunned, but we’re still in the game. Even at that age we had enough skills to focus and save ourselves. Mike and I, having weathered this incident better, turned and went to assist Richard and Chuck. As we pulled alongside, we had managed to maneuver out of the channel and now had found some calmer waters over in the protection of Battery Island. Still stuck across the river, we huddled to make a plan together. Richard had a great idea. He suggested we turn back toward Fort Caswell and take Coast Guard Creek over to where it intersects with Elizabeth River. I like this idea and I’m hoping my captain, Mike Dosher, elects to do the same. But NO…OOOOOOOO! I’m with a guy who was VERY confident in his abilities on the water and right-

Community

ly so. Mike, at that age knew his way around his boat and that river. So, Mike tells Chuck and Richard he thinks we’ll try crossing again but further up river near the Caroon Crab dock. Inside my head I’m screaming NOOOOOOO! But, I stay silent. I can’t let my friends know I’m scared. The look on Chuck’s and Richard’s faces told me they had been SCARED too. Their encounter had been a closer call than mine and Mike’s. As I watch Richard and Chuck turn around and head back toward Coast Guard Creek a little voice inside of me was yelling “take me, take me.”

Mike and I stayed on the Battery Island side of the river as we headed up river to cross. We ran into Sammy Rees in his Jon boat coming toward us. We flagged Sammy down to ask how the river looked for crossing where he had just come from. Sammy was wearing his foul weather gear poncho and was well prepared as he told us that it would probably be okay to cross up river near C.B. Caroon Crab Company. We went

on and crossed with just mild trepidation and lived to tell this tale. Richard and Chuck made it home safely too. Their route took them three times as long…but we were glad to meet back at the dock.

Richard and I have talked about this many times over the years and rarely did we get together that we didn’t mention SWAMPED DAY. I’m writing this while I still can. Richard and I are the only two left to tell the story. Chuck and Mike have passed on to the “salt afterlife,” where they spend their days fishing, crabbing, boating and sailing.

The stories of youth stay with us forever. The adventures of boys on the river and in the river never fade. A bunch of modern day Huckleberry Finn’s, survivors all. I’ve said it before….. “Huckleberry Finn had NOTHING on me and my pals!”

Michael Royal

The Summer Season Arrives Every June

SAVE THE DATE

SPOTTINGS

The N.C. 4th of July Festival held its annual fundraiser on April 28th. The Red, White & Blue Shrimparoo was a fun-filled afternoon. A special thank you to The American Fish Company in Southport for donating the location, The Frying Pan Restaurant in Southport for providing the delicious food, and the 264 members of the public who came out in support. All proceeds from this eventbenefit this year’s festival, which will be held June 28 through July 4.

Brunswick Partnership for Housing received a $15,000 donation from Hagood Hope for Children, the Hagood Homes foundation. “Brunswick Partnership for Housing is an ideal fit for the mission of Hagood Hope for Children,” Patrick Kennedy, Hagood CEO said. “For the last 20 years, our founders have had a passion for giving back. What better place to contribute than in our own back yard.

“We have committed our lives to housing,” he continued. “Home is where we live, raise families, build a life. I can’t imagine not having a home. We’re happy to give back in a way that can give a family a permanent place they can call home.”

Lynda Stanley, President and CEO of Dosher Memorial Hospital, is the latest recipient of the Kiwanis Award for Excellence in Community Service as selected by the Kiwanis Club of Southport-Oak Island.

Tee It Up for the Kids! Kiwanis Golf Tourney is June 29

Area golfers, the children of Brunswick County – 41 percent of whom live in poor or low-income homes, according to NC Child –need you!

The annual Kiwanis Club of Southport–Oak Island golf tournament will be held Saturday, June 29, at the Lockwood Folly Country Club in Shallotte, with all proceeds used to support the many Kiwanis programs that serve area youth. The tournament is the club’s largest fundraising event.

The $100 per player cost to participate includes greens fees, a light breakfast, a catered lunch, and free beverages on the course. For an additional $20, players can purchase a mulligan package which can increase the ability to collect a post-match prize. Play begins at 9 am with a shotgun start.

Participants also can bid on numerous prizes donated by area businesses at a silent auction, which will be held during the luncheon.

There is a 128-golfer limit, so it’s important to sign up early. Register online at so-kiwanisgolf.com.

Statistics indicate about 30 percent of the county’s children suffer from food insecurity and almost 65 percent receive free or reduced-cost meals in school. The Kiwanis club seeks to help the young people of our communities overcome the challenges they face so they can look forward to a brighter future.

To learn more about the outing or the Southport-Oak Island Kiwanis club, visit soikiwanis.com.

Cell Phone Photo Tips

Five Simple Ways To Elevate Your Photos

TIPS AND PHOTOS BY KATIE DORSETT-DYE

I

t’s a maxim among photographers that the best camera in the world at any time is the one you have with you, and we almost always have an extremely capable camera right in our pocket. Cell phone photography is no joke. You have all you need to capture memories and all the beauty around you right in the palm of your hand. Any halfway modern cell phone will take a good photo, but to capture those truly great photos can be little trickier. We asked local photographer (and winner of our Maggie Award for Favorite Family Photographer) Katie Dorsett-Dye of Katie D Photography for some tips that will help elevate your cell phone photography.

1. Good Lighting: Lighting is key in photography. Experiment at all times of day and in all kinds of weather. Try going out before sunrise, for blue hour, and stay through sunrise. Note the difference from your first image to your last.

2. Composition: Follow basic composition rules like the rule of thirds. Try to place your subject off-center to create a more visually appealing image. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add interest to your photos. (Make sure your Grid and Level are ON in your camera settings).

3. Move: Move your camera (phone) and yourself! Turn your camera upside down to get a lower angle. Squat down or climb up on something (safely) to get a different perspective.

Community

4. Experiment with Editing: Don’t be afraid to edit your photos. There are plenty of great editing apps available that can help you enhance your images. Play around with brightness, contrast, saturation, and filters to make your photos pop. Photography is ART!

5. Focus and Exposure: Most phone cameras allow you to tap on the screen to adjust the focus and exposure. Take advantage of this feature to ensure your subject is in focus and properly exposed. Experiment with different focal points to create different effects. A lot of phones allow you to change the exposure with the focus feature. Look at your phone manual for further details.

Katie’s

CALENDAR

June

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

JUNE 1

It’s Our Town clean up — Southport

Join your neighbors in this monthly effort to spruce up the city from 9 am to noon. All you need to bring is your energy, good intentions; tools will be provided. Meet up at the old jail annex at the corner of Rhett and Nash streets at 9 am for a morning of fresh air, weeding, pruning, planting and other gardening work.

JUNE 2

Paws-Ability BandFest ’24

Enjoy music from The Sea & Sand Band and Julio and the Saltines at this fundraiser for Paws-Ability, a group dedicated to supporting local rescue groups and improving animal welfare in Brunswick and New Hanover Counties. BandFest ’24 is at the Sunset Beach Town Park, 206 Sunset Blvd. N, from noon to 5 pm; entry is $5. There will be raffles, vendors, food and beverages, and animals ready to find their forever homes. Email info@paws-ability.org or call 910-269-6885 for more information.

JUNE 8

Community Cookout and Birthday Party

Dosher Memorial Hospital hosts this annual cookout and celebration from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the hospital’s front entrance, 924 N. Howe St. in Southport. The celebration includes lunch, dessert , and music. Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated. Go to Dosher.org/birthday, or call 910457-3900 for more information or to RSVP.

JUNE 8

Ride the Tide

Oak Island hosts this annual float along David Canal. This year’s event starts at the 29th Place West boat ramp, and kayakers will ride the tide to the floating dock behind the Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive. As of press time, this event was full; check www.OakIslandNC.gov under Recre-

ation programs to see if any slots open up.

JUNE 8

Battleship 101

Learn about life aboard the USS NORTH CAROLINA. The program features information on gunnery, sick bay, engineering, and daily shipboard life on the battleship. Enjoy the opportunity to go behind the doors and inside normally closed spaces. The program is free with the cost of admission. Battleship NC is at 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington.

JUNE 11

Second Tuesday Talk - Southport His-

torical Society

SHS President Liz Fuller,  will be discussing her new book Southport’s Secret Suffragist. Learn the story of Miss Annie Clemmons who lived in Southport from 1890-1956. In 1920, when the 19th Amendment guaranteed women the right to vote, Annie went to the County Courthouse to register. She was denied due to the color of her skin, as were all Black men and women in Brunswick County at that time. But what Annie did next was surprising-and a secret! One hundred years later we’re sharing her secret and we have a feeling Annie would be just fine with that. The talk is at 10 am at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., Southport.

JUNE 20

Ladies Speakeasy Night - Cattail Cottage

Grab your girls and join the crew at Cattail Cottage for a special evening of socializing, shopping, and spirits! Cattail Cottage will be open late on June 20th for a Summer Speakeasy Ladies Night. From 4pm - 7pm, enjoy specialty drinks, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and shop with your friends. Be festive and dress to impress in fun cocktail attire, and take advantage of special sales on your favorite products. Bring a friend, or two, or more and you each get a chance to win a $25 gift certificate. Spend $35 or more and qualify to win a “Ladies Night” Gift Basket full of goodies (a $100+ value).

Cattail Cottage is in Southport at 416 N Howe Street.

JUNE 21

Crabbing to Cuisine

Join Steve’s Crab Shack learning all about the Blue Crab! Discussions will include methods of catching crabs, types of bait, local areas where crabbing is permitted, and how to prepare and steam your catch. Participants receive hands on practice in picking Blue Crab for a taste test. The class is 6-9 pm at the Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive. Visit https://parksrec.egov. basgov.com/oakislandnc to register.

JUNE 22-23

Amateur Radio “Field Day”

Members of the Brunswick Shores Amateur Radio Club will be participating in the national Amateur Radio Field Day exercise, June 22-23 at the Calabash Community Park in Calabash. Since 1933, ham radio operators across North America have established temporary ham radio stations in public locations during Field Day to showcase the science and skill of Amateur Radio. This event is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend. The park is at 868 Persimmon Road SW.

JUNE 25

Chop with a Cop

Area teens ages 13-18 and local police officers will throw axes and vie for bragging rights at Throw Baxe, 806 N. Howe Street in Southport, 10 am to noon and 1-3 pm. Register for one of the time slots at www.OakIslandNC. gov/EVENTS.

JUNE 29-30

Let Freedom Ring - Patriotic Concert

The Sea Notes Choral Society continues celebrating its 50th Anniversary year with its annual patriotic concert. Take a break from the heat and enjoy classic American music to celebrate the July 4th holiday. Performances are at 3 pm at Odell Williamson Auditorium at Brunswick Community College, 150 College Road NE. Attendance is free, but this show fills up quickly!

Summer/Open Air Markets

The Oak Island Farmers & Artisans Market

Enjoy ocean breezes and find fresh

produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and more. The market runs from 8 am to1 pm on Mondays through the season at the Middleton Park Fields, SE 46th and Dolphin Drive. A pirate-themed playground and splash pad are adjacent to the market fields.

Southport Summer Market — Wednesdays

Find this year’s market in its new location, adjacent to the Southport City Gym, 209 N. Atlantic Avenue. Browse for foods and goods from local growers, crafters and artisans, 9 am to 2 pm. The Market will run every Wednesday beginning May 1 through the end of August except July 4th week.

Olde Southport Village Shoppes Farmers Market — Wednesdays

The Village Shops spill out onto the courtyard with vendors and artisans joining in to offer a wide variety of goods. The Market is on Wednesdays though August, 9 am to 1 pm at The Village, 1102 N. Howe St., behind the Smokehouse restaurant.

Artisan & Farmers Market

Barn & Beach Designs

Shop for fresh produce, baked goods and arts and crafts from 9 am to 2 pm on Wednesdays, 4874 Long Beach 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.

Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St, Southport: The Lifelong Learners program meets at Harper Library on Wednesdays, 10 am. Call 910-457-6237 to register for programs. One-on-one

tech support is offered on Thursdays, 1-3 pm.

NC Maritime Museums - Southport

204 E. Moore St.

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

Historic Bike Tours in Southport

Tour historic Southport on bike with the Adventure Kayak Company, Inc. The cost is $35 for the tour and bike/helmet rental or $30 if you bring your own. Next tour is June 4. Call 910-454-0607 or visit www.theadventurecompany.net.

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. Visit https://parksrec.egov.basgov.com/ oakislandnc for details on programs.

Franklin Square Art Gallery

The Gallery is open 10 am to 5 pm Monday through Saturday and can be found at 130 E. West St., next to Franklin Square Park. The First Friday Gallery

Walk is 5-7 pm in Southport at participating galleries; stroll along and browse in the shops to see what local artists have to offer..

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.

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

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

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site

8884 St. Philip’s Rd. SE, Winnabow

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

Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach

The Museum is open Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4 pm, and Sundays 12-4 pm. Sandbar lectures are 5-7 pm on the second Tuesday.

Ingram Planetarium

7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach

Open Monday-Saturday 10:30 am - 4 pm for dome shows and science displays. Laser shows run hourly from 5:30 - 8 pm Monday - Saturday. Visit https:// musemplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule..

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

River Hotel

706 E. Moore St. (food trucks planned for live music events)

June 6 — Rev & The Flying Flamingoes

June 13 Double Cherry Pie

June 20 — Trilogy

June 27 — Double Cherry Pie

July 11 — Double Cherry Pie

Bands by the Beach — Oak Island

Amphitheater at Middleton Park fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive

Concerts start at 6:30 p.m. — Bring chairs or blankets; food trucks on site

June 7 — Ntranze

June 14 — Too Much Sylvia

June 21 — The Entertainers

June 28 — The Sand Band

July 1 (Beach Day) — 20 Ride

July 12 — Chocolate Chip & Co.

July 1 — The Tonez

Southport Concert Series

Sundays on the Lawn

Garrison Lawn — 203 E. Bay St.

Bring blankets or chairs and your dancing shoes! All concerts are weather permitting, and many concerts will also include food truck appearances.

June 2 — Carolina Crazy Band

June 9 — The 52nd Street Band

Concerts in the Park — Boiling Spring Lakes

Take blankets, chairs and your friends to concert at Spring Lake Park, 210 Pine Road. Concerts are 6-8 pm

June 14 — Hoods Creek

June 28 — Trilogy Band

Movies in the Park — Boiling Spring Lakes

Enjoy movies under the stars at the Recreation Center, 1 Leeds Road

Bring blankets or chairs and snacks — movies start at 7:30 pm, and a $2 donation is suggested

June 7 — “E.T”

June 21 — “Migration”

July 12 — “Top Gun”

July 26 — “Pikachu”

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 TASTING ROOM

105 N. Howe St., Southport

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 Thurs-

CALENDAR

days and live music is on Sundays.

Southport Tap & Cellar

827 N. Howe St., Southport

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

The Mullet Bar

112 Yacht Basin Drive

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

THE WINE RACK

102 W. Brown St., Southport.

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

THE PUB OF SOUTHPORT

1513 N. Howe St., Unit 10, Southport

Check the Pub’s Facebook page for drink specials and food truck appearances. Sports programming on eight TVs and live music too! Bar swag bingo on Tuesday nights.

TIKI TAVERN

104 E. 8th St., Southport

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

UNCORKED BY THE SEA WINE SHOP & GALLERY

602 N. Howe St. Southport

Shop for a wide variety of wines and craft beers, call 910-454-0633, or shop online at www.uncorkedbythesea.com. Collector wines, crystal stemware and other great gift items also available.

Crossroads Gathering Place

128 Country Club Drive, Oak Island

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

GRAPE & ALE

8521 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

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

The Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille

601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island

Good food, a great ocean view with

gorgeous sunsets. Check Facebook for music and specials.

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.

4996 GLEN COVE DRIVE SE, OAK ISLAND, NC | 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,581 SF | NEW TO MARKET. Charming and ideally proportioned, this single-level home strikes the perfect balance between coziness and spaciousness. Situated in the highly desirable community of South Harbour Village, this home is perfect for the outdoor living enthusiast with its inviting covered front port, open side deck and rear paver patio crowned with pergola. Inside the home is full of beautiful details, upgrades and updates (like new plush carpet). Currently listed at $370,900 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Rudd Sold Group at (910-512-1361) for further details.

109 SW 24TH STREET, OAK ISLAND | 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,053 SF | This island beauty is ‘sporting’ a newly installed (5/6/24) ‘’fortified’’ roof, fresh exterior paint and boasts an oversized (8’ x 39’) covered, front porch. Moving inside you enter the large, great room with 14 ft. cathedral ceiling and new LVP flooring and trim. This open, inviting space includes the living and dining areas and 80’s kitchen with warm, wooden cabinets. There is plenty of parking in the circular driveway and the shed in the backyard has plenty of storage for your beach, fishing and other outdoor items. You’re an easy walk to the Davis Canal and beautiful marsh area or the ICW fishing dock on SW Yacht and just a short drive to the beach and other island amenities. Currently listed at $439,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Howard Mullendore at (336) 262-4788 for details.

MARKETPLACE

218 NE 49TH STREET, OAK ISLAND | 3 BR, 4 BA (2 FULL, 2 PARTIAL), 1,735 SF. NEW CONSTRUCTION, a beautiful coastal home built by a well-known builder on the island. Located with easy access to the beach. This house features a large outdoor shower and beautiful landscaping. When you walk through the front door you will love the 9’ high ceilings, open floor plan, shiplap, wainscoting, LVP flooring, quartz countertops, backsplash, stainless steel appliances with beautiful lighting. The large master bedroom boasts crown molding and large walkin closet with wood shelving. The master bathroom offers shiplap behind the mirrors, double sinks, beautiful, tiled shower. Located in the X floor zone which means a lender will not require flood insurance. Currently listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Kathy MacNish at (919) 352-2809 for details.

109 NW 24TH STREET, OAK ISLAND | 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,500 SF. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the thoughtful design and modern features this home has to offer. As you enter through the front door, you’ll immediately notice soaring 9-foot ceilings, creating an open and airy atmosphere throughout the home. The combination of the spacious layout and well-placed windows floods the interior with natural light, enhancing the overall sense of warmth and comfort. The living area is a perfect space to unwind and entertain. The adjacent gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream, complete with elegant granite countertops, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space for all of your culinary needs. Every detail in this home exudes elegance, including the crown molding that adds a touch of sophistication to the living areas. Currently listed at $439,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Lynda Young at (919) 452-2793 for details.

1993 STYRONS LANDING ROAD. $685,000 Water Access Community!! New Construction PRE SALE with Water Views Galore only 2 1/2 miles from the Holden Beach Bridge! Wake up every morning in your marsh front home to views of the Sea Aire Canal AND the Intracoastal Waterway! Introducing The Tidewater, a classic take on the 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom , 1755 Sq. Ft. home featuring clean lines and enhanced finishes designed to capture the panoramic marsh and water views of Holden Beach. Call Karen Saunders, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 713-0021.

1002 BONNER BUSSELLS DRIVE. 3 bed | 2 bath | $689,000. Distinguished single-owner ranchstyle home situated in the tranquil neighborhood of Smithville Woods. This exceptional property embodies comfortable living, offering an impressive array of amenities, including an expansive deck, a dedicated grilling pavilion, an inviting outdoor fire-pit area, and a conditioned 2-car detached garage with utility sink and ample storage room. This home is nestled along a secluded, lightly traveled street in a community known for its pride of ownership, this residence has the added benefit of being free from HOA dues. Inside you will discover spacious bedrooms, including a serene master suite with its own ensuite bathroom, a well-appointed kitchen with modern appliances, abundant counter space, and a convenient breakfast nook for casual dining. The large living room has a propane fireplace that is fused by a 300 Gallon propane tank. The property’s exterior is adorned with lush landscaping, meticulously manicured lawns, and

mature trees, enhancing its curb appeal. This home offers proximity to Southport Elementary school, several commercial shopping centers, dining establishments, parks, and is just a golf cart ride away from Downtown Southport! Call Myles Williams, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 619-9655.

106 N. WATER STREET, UNIT 210. WATER STREET CENTER CONDO.

1 bed|1 bath| $399,000. Embrace the extraordinary opportunity to own ‘The Stowaway,’ a thriving riverfront condo in downtown Wilmington, listed as a successful short-term rental on Airbnb. This fully-furnished unit on the second floor is thoughtfully equipped with all the essentials, providing a seamless blend of comfort and convenience in the heart of downtown. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Battleship and Cape Fear Memorial Bridge from your covered balcony that overlooks the river. Included with the condo is a coveted parking spot in the owners’ lot, ensuring stress-free parking in the bustling downtown area. With the added benefit of permitting short-term rentals, ‘The Stowaway’ presents an enticing opportunity for potential rental income. The Water Street Center Condos also offer basic cable and internet services at an affordable $700 per year. Immerse yourself in the allure of riverfront living and the success of ‘The Stowaway’ as a sought-after Airbnb rental. Schedule your showing today to experience firsthand the charm and potential this property has to offer. Call Joey Kronenwetter, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 520-5035.

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | $549,000. Remodeled Southport Sweetheart Cottage with gorgeous tile, backsplash, cabinetry and new flooring is only 1.4 miles from the Swings at the Waterfront Park! The kitchen features 2 pantries, all new electric appliances, and a charcoal recirculating vented hood over the stove/ oven. The countertops are quartz and expansive enough to handle all of your cooking, mixing and fun family entertainment with a large Farmhouse style sink and a small vegetable prep sink in the island. Floating shelves accent the kitchen with an organized Drawer Peg System for storing your cookware, plates, bowls and serving platters. An Abundance of Windows are all new vinyl with double paned, insulated glass and are accented with Plantation shutters. New HVAC unit , ductwork and return system. The electric was updated to accommodate a new stackable washer/dryer and new water heater. A shelf for a built-in microwave has been conveniently located in the kitchen island where it is tucked out of sight. Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring throughout with tile in the bathroom. A Tiled Floorto-Ceiling Walk-In Master Shower Reflects an Aquamarine Crush tile color w/ the Rain head streaming down from the top and Double Shower Heads,. ‘’Homewerks’’ has been installed so that you can bluetooth your music while enjoying this Opulent Bath Plus the Walkin Closet is a Dream Come True! Situated on.469 acre with a large detached garage/carport in the backyard. Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 620-8962.

124 STUART AVE., SOUTHPORT.

DINING GUIDE

Find Something Sure To Please Everyone

Check out the Dining Guide and what delicious food the local area has to offer!

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.

M FRYING PAN

319 West Bay St., Southport 910-363-4382Featuring 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-

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

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

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

SWAIN’S CUT SEAFOOD

8317 E. Oak Island Dr, (910) 933-6300

Serving fresh, local seafood and delicious and creative baked treats.

TRANQUIL HARBOR

5908 E. Oak Island Drive Oak Island Call (910) 250-12944

Casual family restaurant with a variety of dishes, seafood and daily specials.

WINE & BEER

GRAPE AND ALE

8521 E. Oak Island Dr. Oak Island, 910-933-4384

Quaint and eclectic store offering a large selection of wines, beers, and spirits. Perfect for either relaxation or for on the go! Tastings on Fridays 5-8pm,

SILVER COAST WINERY

105 S. Howe St. Southport, 910-777-5151

Brunswick County’s first and only winery and original Craft Beer Bar. Craft Beer and Wine tastings all day, every day! Check out our Facebook page for updated events, specialty beer tastings, and live music.

SOUTHPORT TAP & CELLAR

827 N. Howe St., Southport

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

THE WINE RACK

102 W. Brown St. Southport, 910-457-5147

Offering a selection of wine, cigars, coffees, and accessories, this quaint shop is perfect for a night out. Great service and over 600 wines to choose from.

UNCORKED BY THE SEA

602 N. Howe St. Southport, 910-454-0633

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

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.

BARBECUE

M SOUTHPORT SMOKE HOUSE

1102 N. Howe St., Southport 910-363-5035

www.southportsmokehouse.com

Real wood smoked BBQ and brisket, great side items, and a great family environment.

M BAR-B-QUE HOUSE

5002 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-201-1001

www.bestbbqonthebeach.com

Hormel ribs are slow d in house and meats are offered with a variety of sauces, from Eastern NC vinegar to Lexington-style red.

CAFES, DELIS & GRILLS

49th STREET BAR AND GRILL

4901 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Indoor and outside seating will a full menu.

BLUE COW GRILLE

108 Moore Street, Southport 910-363-4402

Serving specialty Burgers,.sanwiches and seafood. Lunch and Dinner

BOB’S DOGS

8903 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-3456 • www.bobsdogsoki.com

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

THE BREAK

5700 E. Oak Island Drive (910) 933-4734

Breakfast and lunch with an island flair

CAROLINA COASTAL CAFE

607 N. Howe Street, Southport (910) 363-4350

Full service breakfast and lunch cafe withfull coffee bar and baked goods

CHASER’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL

8520 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-1500

Enjoy BBQ sandwiches, wings, fish ‘n’ chips and more at this sports grill.

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

3196 George II Hwy,Boiling Spring Lakes 910-845-7700

Handmade burgers using 100% ground chuck, plus freshly cut French fries.

FIXIN’S OKI

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

DINING GUIDE

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

5422 E. Oak Island Dr., 910-278-4005

Offering hamburgers, sub sandwiches, salads, wraps, seafood and daily drink specials.

OAK ISLAND SUBS AND SALADS

5705 E. Oak Island Dr. 910-278-9040

From BLT’s with avocado to Cajun and Reuben sandwiches, & other quality sandwiches.

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

www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com

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

WILDLIFE RESTAURANT & GRILL

4381 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 910-457-9953

www.wildlifegrill.webs.com

Serving a full range of items on our menu from breakfast to home cooked meals.

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 SUSHI BAR

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

4956 Long Beach Rd., Southport, 457-1838

Serving Cantonese, Szechuan and Hunanstyle Chinese food.

INTERNATIONAL

M PORTS OF CALL

116 N. Howe St., Southport, 457-4544 www.portsofcallbistro.com

Offering choices that are largely influenced by dishes from across the globe. Menu items and specials can whisk your palette from Casablanca to Barcelona, Santorini to Mumbai, and from Marseilles to Munich or Charleston. Finish with a fresh baked dessert in the romantic atmosphere.

ITALIAN

M BELLA CUCINA

5177 SouthportSupply Rd., Southport 910-454-4540 www.belladiningnc.com

Focusing on family Italian recipes, Bella Cucina serves up everything from fine and fresh local seafood to hand tossed, New York style pizzas. Aside from a decadent wine list, Bella Cucina also offers specialty martinis.

CASTUCCI’S AN ITALIAN JOINT

4332 Long Beach Rd, Southport 910-477-6755

Family Italian restaurant D’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

2831 Midway Rd Ste 106 (910) 253-8151

Serving Itaiian entrees, pizza and sandwiches.

FALCONE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 5013 Southport Crossing Way, Southport 910) 363-8000

Serving home cooked Itailan specialties in a friendly atmosphere.

M JOSEPH’S ITALIAN BISTRO

5003 O’Quinn Blvd., Southport, 454-4440 www.josephsitalianbistro.com

Armed with decades of experience and “secret” family recipes, Joseph’s Italian Bistro appeals with candlelit dining and fresh Italian continental cuisine.

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

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.

KAI JOE’S

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

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)

5003 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island (910) 278-9111

Delivery/carryout chain offering a wide range of pizza, plus chicken & other sides.

DINING GUIDE

(910) 363-5072

Asian delicasies for dine-in or take-out

THAI AND VINE

106 SE 58th Street (910) 933-1025

Southeast Asian specialties

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.

JUMPIN’ JAVA OAK ISLAND

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 EATERY

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.

lime pie, and carrot cake.

ICE CREAM

CHUCK’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

5021 Southport Crossing Way, Southport (910) 363-0208

Featuring delicious home made ice cream.

M DAIRY QUEEN

5701 E. Oak Island Dr.,• 278-5371

Featuring the iconic Blizzards, waffle-bowl sundaes, and more frozen treats. *Call for other nearby locations.

FLAVA’S COFFEE AND ICE CREAM

310 W. Bay St., Southport • 457-5150

Ice Cream at the Yacht Basin

HAVEN

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

LIL & JOHN’S SWEETREAT HOME-

MADE ICE CREAM

6324 East Oak Island Drive.

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

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E. Oak Island Drive

Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right

next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

SPIKE’S DAIRY BAR

201 N. Howe St., Southport, 477-9117

More than just ice cream, Spike’s offers great hot dogs as well.

THE SCOOP SHOP

4922 East Oak Island Dr, OKI 910-250-1321

The best ice cream on the beach! Plus made to order cake donuts and fresh hot donuts!

SOUTHPORT SUZIE’S

4956 Old Long Beach Rd. Suite 1, Southport 910-363-4188

Frozen Yogurt & Desserts; Wine & Beer, Outside seating

SUGAR DADDIES

5119 E. Oak Island Drive

Ice Cream and Dip-n-Dots

TIKI PINEAPPLE WHIPS

4602 E. Beach Drive, Oak Island (910) 632-0598

Dole Whip pineapple frozen treats right at the beach!

TROPICAL TREATS

5811 E. Oak Island Drive

Ice Cream, Italian Ice, Coffee, Ho,me Made Fudge

INDOCHINE EXPRESS

1131 N. Atlantic Ave, Southport

SIDE STREET BAKERY

417-A N. Howe Street, Southport 363-4629

Locals suggest the cupcakes, lemon bars, key

Smooth Sailing