AceisyourSunglass Place
FROM THE PUBLISHERS
e love the Maggie issue! We love awarding businesses, groups and individuals who have really made an impact with the services they provide and the work they’re doing. More than that, though, we love reading your submissions for who deserves a prestigious Maggie award. This year especially, we heard from many visitors to our lovely coastal communities. They complimented employees and businesses, people they met, and the area in general. We’re glad to see how much effort so many people and business owners in our community put into making people feel welcome — it was 30 years ago, but we still remember the warm welcome we got from this community even though we were new residents of Wilmington. That was part of the reason we ended up moving to Long Beach (Oak Island). With this issue, we’re sharing the love of all things community and now we leave it up to you loyal readers to spread it further and show your appreciation as well, because everyone loves to feel appreciated. — Lisa
STAFF
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
McKenzie Barwick
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
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
Biz Feature
Chef Jason’s Kitchen
Local Chef Is Cooking Up A Storm
STORY BY PATRICIA LANGER
Chef Jason Talbot grew up in rural West Virginia, where he was heavily exposed to Appalachian culture and cuisine. Jason learned the importance of hunting, fishing, and growing vegetables, leading him to appreciate the quality of ingredients used in cooking. His own culinary journey began at the prestigious Pennsylvania School of Culinary Arts, continued with restaurant ownership in WV, and eventually landed him several top roles in North Carolina restaurants when he moved to Oak Island. Most recently, Jason ventured into cookbook writing and started his own business as a private chef and caterer. Somehow, I managed to grab a few minutes of Chef Jason’s time to ask him about what he’s got cooking.
Jason, you have a LOT happening all at once! A newly released cookbook called “Hillbilly Fusion,” a new business venture as a private chef, a catering collaboration with Chef Rick Dobrowsky from Fixins restaurant, and you’re teaching cooking classes. Did you plan to launch all these things simultaneously?
No, not really. It kind of just ended up that way. The book had been in the works for a long time. The private chef business and the catering business both just kind of started up. I saw a need that people had and decided to jump at it. As far as the catering business goes, Chef Rick from Fixins and I thought it would be a good idea to join forces. We have had some really good feedback on it. We started doing wine dinners at the restaurant and they turned out fabulous! We are definitely going to continue with that. We’re going to do one every month, always with a different theme. It’ll be a four-course plated dinner with wine included. We’ve been pondering some pretty crazy dishes! I’m super excited to see where this goes and how far we can really push the envelope!
How does your private chef business, Chef Jason’s Kitchen, differ from a catering job?
I guess the big difference between the two is a private chef cooks food at your location for small parties, whereas a catering business is on a much larger scale and you
usually don’t cook as much food at the site as you would a private chef. The goal for both businesses is exactly the same though — to provide great food and great service for locals and visitors alike.
Who plans the menu for a private event?
We have standard menus available, but customized menus are definitely available too. Most of the menus and themes are based on your taste, your budget, and the general vibe that you’re looking for. I love it! When somebody calls up and wants a customized menu, I think it really lets my creative juices flow.
That sounds like a lot of fun! Is there a minimum number of guests for a private chef event? And how does the pricing work?
There’s not really a minimum number of people. I do parties of all sizes from two people to a thousand people. The cost is really based on the kind of cuisine you would like to have, how many courses you’re looking for, and whether you want a buffet or a plated dinner. I always try to put people with what works best for them. It’s really more dependent upon the style of event you are looking for.
I know that your wife Beth is a talented pastry chef. Is she helping with the desserts?
Yes, she definitely helps out with some of the baking. She just helped us with the pastries for the wedding expo at the Southport Community Building on February 15. They turned out excellent. I think we gave a cake to every single person in the building.
I imagine there are some challenges to cooking high-end meals in someone else’s home kitchen. What are the limitations you face, and what are the benefits of being a private chef versus a restaurant chef?
Yes, there are definitely some challenges to cooking in other people’s kitchens. I tend to bring a lot of my own equipment. As far as the limitations go, there’s not really any if you plan it out correctly. We tend to look at what’s going to make the customer happy, not just what’s convenient for us. After all, we are looking to achieve culinary excellence. I really think the difference between a private chef and a restaurant chef is that a private chef is far more focused on a small group of people. A restaurant chef
has to be more concerned with the overall business and the operation of the kitchen.
I’ve heard that you are a talented musician. Any chance you serenade your dinner guests?
I don’t know about talented musician, but I can play a little bit. I probably won’t serenade dinner guests anytime soon. I’m really looking for them to stay at the event, not run away!
Tell me how the cooking classes fit into your business.
The cooking classes we do are at Fixins restaurant in Oak Island. Chef Rick and I typically plan out something that we think people would enjoy learning how to cook. We try to keep the classes as small as possible for the best learning experience. They are a lot of fun and people really enjoy them.
How often are you offering cooking classes and how do people sign up?
Right now we are offering one class a month. You can sign up by calling Fixins at 910-933-1009. The class lasts about two hours. When we’re done cooking and tasting all the food, we usually sit around and talk for a while — that takes almost as long as the class! I really enjoy learning things about the people who I’m teaching to cook.
What types of foods will you be teaching students to cook?
We teach all kinds of classes. We just did a class on pasta last week. How to make raviolis, pasta sauce, spaghetti, and gnocchi. People really loved it! The next class we’re having is how to make chowder. We do take suggestions all the time about what people would like to learn, so if you have an idea for a class, please let me know.
Let’s talk about your cookbooks. The first one you published, Modern
Appalachian Cuisine, has a lot of old family recipes with some modern twists. What’s different in your newest cookbook, Hillbilly Fusion?
I think the biggest difference between the two is that Hillbilly Fusion is far more in the direction of international cuisine, mix-
ing old country recipes with international ingredients. My first book was more in the direction of using recipes that came for my family in West Virginia. I really think one kind of plays into the other. They both are based on cooking theories that you would learn in rural Appalachia.
Can you explain the idea behind the term hillbilly fusion?
I guess the simplest way to explain it is that it’s about mashing cuisines together and coming up with your own kind of cuisine. It really started because somewhere along the line I figured out that mixing food from the country and food from cultures around the world tasted good together. When I was a kid, my family used to cook a lot of different kinds of cuisine — Chinese, Indian and Italian just to name a few. Then I would go to my granny’s house and we would eat things like homemade biscuits, brown beans and cornbread. I think I just decided that I wanted to eat both at the same time, so hillbilly fusion was born.
That makes a lot of sense and sounds delicious! But it also sounds like it could be complicated. Can a beginner cook follow your recipes, or is Hillbilly Fusion geared toward more advanced cooks?
This cookbook is for anybody. The recipes are very easy to follow. Whenever I write cookbooks I try to make sure the recipes are stripped down as much as possible. So, it’s super easy for beginners, but yet interesting and detailed enough for the most advanced cooks.
Since you clearly don’t have enough going on - haha - you’re going to start selling your own line of pork rinds soon, too. When and where can we find those products?
I hope to be set up outside of Fixins on the weekends, beginning sometime in late Spring. On Mondays in the summer and fall, I’m going to set up at the Oak Island Farmers Market. And I plan to set up
MAG G IES
We love the Maggie Awards, and we hope you do as well. What makes our Maggie awards stand out is the thought put into them by you, our readers. If you aren’t familiar with our syestem for the Maggies, we simply ask people to tell us, in their own words, what makes this community great. It’s a essay question, really, and sometimes we get true essays in responce! We love to read all your nominations, and each year we are surprised by some of them. One thing that really stuck out this year was the number of responses we received from folks who do not live full time in our community, but love to visit here. Let me tell you, they love this place and are not shy about telling us why it’s where they chose to spend their limited vacation time. It also made us happy to know that Southport Magazine helps to connect visitors to their vacation escape! We’ve included some of the comments we received so you can enjoy them too.
We would like to nominate The Pearl in Southport because their little boutique has unique items at great prices, they go above and beyond to help find something for your special person! Plus their staff are so very kind and knowledgeable. And they have an awesome rewards program, which we love.
southportcheeseshop.com
belladiningnc.com
GALENTINE’S EVENT
Open House
I would like to nominate Barn & Beach Designs in Southport! The staff and owner Francesca are so welcoming and kind! Their merchandise is phenomenal! They sell some of the most beautiful and unique beach art I’ve ever seen in my life. You could spend your entire day looking through all three shops. Francesca has given the local artists a place where they can thrive and sell their beautiful artwork! I think that most definitely deserves a Maggie Award!
bluecowgrille.com
MAG G IES
FAVORITE PROPERTY MANAGERS
Oak Island Accomodations
8901 East Oak Island Drive
Oak Island, NC 28465
(888) 297-8066
reantalsatthebeach.com
I would like to nominate Oak Island Accommodations for “Best Property Management Company.” I had the privilege and pleasure of working with two of their team members when I called looking for lodging options after Hurricane Helene. The hurricane had caused flooding in our home and we were in the midst of tearing out and trying to repair the damage. I was just four months out from a major brain surgery. I had to undergo frontal craniotomy to remove a brain tumor. The stress of the flooding as well as the physical aspect of the aftermath and being without power and running water was not ideal for healing to say the least. Upon inspection from FEMA our home was deemed unlivable and we were given money to help with a rental for a period of time while our home was worked on. Because I have family in the area I reached out to multiple rental agencies as well as home owners but when I reached out to OIA I was shocked and touched to find that they had homeowners offering discounted rates to families that were affected by Helene. Because of their efforts and the homeowners of the property I rented I was able to find a home within our tight budget that was pet friendly. We were able to get out of the construction zone and devastation in our community here in the mountains and I was able to have much needed rest and spend time with my family. Had it not been for Oak Island Accommodations, that would not have been possible! Their team members are all exceptional, from Tammy who worked with me on my rental process and offered tips on restaurants, local stores and things to do as to the maintenance man that came to fix a faulty outside light within an hour of me calling. I could not of asked for a better group of people to work with. My family and I are so thankful and appreciative of them for working with families affected my Helene. Thank you for taking the time to read this long message! Angela S.
lantanasgallery.com
Lantanas Gallery and Gifts has the best staff and selection of art and gifts. I have always had a wonderful experience there whether looking for myself or others. Recently I asked proprietor Hilary if she would like to support a local nonprofit event and she more than accepted the opportunity. She stepped up and is providing a custom giveaway for every guest at the event. A wonderful business and community partner. Thank you!
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9 1 2 D r e a m w e a v e r C t S E # 3 S o u t h p o r t ・ $ 2 4 9 , 0 0 0 2 B e d s | 2 B a t h s | 1 , 1 9 5 S q F t
Exercise, Aerobics and Dance — Southport Jazzercise provides it all. Angela Dover is a great motivational instructor who is very aware of each member’s needs and abilities. She makes it fun for everyone from beginners to the more experienced, all while having a great workout. We are like a big family who also do outside activities for more bonding time.
I’m nominating Stingray Creations because they go above and beyond for customers. I love that they offer everything you need from T-shirts, Tumblers, Vinyl work, logo designs and so much more. I had her vinyl wrap my Jeep and I couldn’t be more happy with the outcome. I also ended up getting some yard signs made as well. I highly recommend this business.
rrvet.com
portsofcallbistro.com
ncmaritimemuseumsouthport.com
NC Maritime Museum-Southport: This free admission museum is chock full of treasures about the colorful and exciting history of the area. Geared to please both adult and young visitors the exhibits feature hands on learning supplemented by excellent text guides.
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Sherol Lappala
Brian Deutsch
Verilyn McKee Sarah Smith
Brian Quinn Katherine Hufham
Kim Anne Russ Pamela Frandano
Fred Fiss
David Thorp Myles Williams
Lee Ann Walker Sally Stidham
Valerie Earman Karen Saunders
Joey Kronenwetter
Katherine Wooten
Carneiro Tanya Broussard
Kim Moss
Annabelle Pivarnik
Shea Williams
Community Pirates Are Coming
Pyrates Parlay To Raise Funds For Arts Council
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Who says its too late to be born a pirate? Next month you can at least pretend to be one as you feast on food and drink, smoke cigars, gamble the night away, dance to live music, rub shoulders with a variety of scalawags and even spot a couple of mermaids at the Brunswick Arts Council’s Pyrates Parlay fundraiser.
Setting sail on Saturday, March 29, the evening runs from 5-9 pm at the Sea Trail Golf Resort and Convention Center, 75 Clubhouse Road, Sunset Beach. Brunswick Arts describes the event as “an unforgettable evening of fun and excitement for adults! Embrace the pirate theme by donning your best pirate costume or your favorite evening attire. The night will be brimming with pirates, live music, a casino, a cash bar, dinner, dancing, a costume contest, and a cigar lounge. Plus, don’t miss the mesmerizing mermaids and siren performing gravity-defying aerial gymnastics!”
Some of the entertainment scheduled includes:
Pirates:
Captain Anthony from Black Sails Adventure
Randy Hall, the Cannon Pirate
Princess Pat the Pirate
Black Bart
Elizabeth Swain the Pirate
Captain Hammer Head
Captain Worley
Captain Adam Morrow Shipwrecked
Fire Spinning by Pirate Mate Jeremy Tim-
co Yellow Beard by Doug McKenna
Turtle The Pirate
Terrance Pirate Surgeon
Captain Jim’s Magic Show
The Flying Sirens: Alyscennne Vallelonga & Suzanne McElvy
Sorsha the Mermaid
Mike Mealey, The Pirate Instructor
Cape Fear Explorers
Parlay (Musical Entertainment)
Brookelyn Cigar Lounge
Casino Party Aces (Roulettes, Black Jack, Poker etc).
about by their lines of work.
An event like this a huge undertaking, and the Brunswick Arts Council is also looking for community support in the form of sponsorships. The sponsorship deadline is March 15, and the sponsorship levels available are as follows:
$2,500 BLACKBEARD Sponsor
Benefits: Business logo on website and e-news, recognition banner at event, all benefits included with levels as shown below. Also, social media promotion, website presence, email blasts, event advertisement (PR & PSA), Recognized by MC at event, Red Carpet w/BAC & Platinum banner, logo on table toppers, 1st prize award level naming (runway show), 2 VIP Tables (8 seats each) at event, on-site Event banner includes logo. Post event recognition includes outgoing press release & PSA’s, social media & website images, thank you Email Blasts, Thank you Advertisement.
$1,000 STEDE BONNET Sponsor
benefits included with levels as shown below. Also, social media promotion, website presence, email blasts, event advertisement (PR & PSA), Recognized by MC at event, logo on table toppers, 3rd prize award level naming (runway show), 4 Entrance Tickets, on-site Event banner includes logo. Post event recognition includes outgoing press release & PSA’s, social media & website images, thank you Email Blasts, Thank you Advertisement.
$250 BLACK CESEAR Sponsor
Benefits: Business logo on website and e-news, recognition banner at event, all benefits included with levels as shown below. Also, social media promotion, website presence, email blasts, event advertisement (PR & PSA), Recognized by MC at event, logo on table toppers, on-site Event banner includes logo. 2 Entrance Tickets. Post event recognition includes outgoing press release & PSA’s, social media & website images, thank you Email Blasts, Thank you Advertisement.
$150 PO TSAI Sponsor
Benefits: Business logo on website and e-news, recognition banner at event, all benefits included with levels as shown below. Also, social media promotion, website presence, email blasts, event advertisement (PR & PSA), Recognized by MC at event, name on table toppers, on-site Event banner includes name. 1 Entrance Ticket. Post event recognition includes outgoing press release & PSA’s, name on social media & website, thank you Email Blasts, Thank you Advertisement.
Tickets are on sale now for $100 per person and are available at brunswickartscouncil.
org. This event is the Brunswick Arts Council’s largest fundraiser of the year, and this year they are also collaborating with the Veterans of Foreign Wars’s Veteran Creative Arts Program (VCAP). VCAP provides Veterans and First Responders in our area with art therapy classes to help manage stress and other mental health issues brought
Benefits: Business logo on website and e-news, recognition banner at event, all benefits included with levels as shown below. Also, social media promotion, website presence, email blasts, event advertisement (PR & PSA), Recognized by MC at event, logo on table toppers, 2nd prize award level naming (runway show), 1 VIP Table (seats 8) at event, on-site Event banner includes logo. Post event recognition includes outgoing press release & PSA’s, social media & website images, thank you Email Blasts, Thank you Advertisement.
$500 CAP’N KIDD Sponsor
Benefits: Business logo on website and e-news, recognition banner at event, all
Chamber News
Health Showcase
Second Annual Health, Beauty,Wellness Expo
CONTRIBUTED BY SOUTHPORT-OAK ISLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT KAREN SPHAR
Coastal Health, Fitness & Beauty Showcase
Connect with Local Experts to Help You Look and Feel Your Best
The annual Coastal Health, Fitness & Beauty Showcase will be held at the St. James Community Center (4136 Southport-Supply Road) on Tuesday, March 11 from 4-7 pm. Admission is free to the public.
Residents of Brunswick and surrounding counties are encouraged to attend this one-stop-shop to connect with local experts to help you look and feel your best. Attendees can meet and speak with more than 30 businesses and professionals specializing in health, fitness and beauty products and services.
The event will feature free health screenings, samples, giveaways, demonstrations, and two seminar rooms.
Seminar Schedule
Room One
4:30 pm - Health is your Greatest Wealth - MaryBeth Dziubinski, RYT, CPT & Carysa Overcash, Managing Owner, Cape Fear Fitness
A healthy body gives you the strength and energy to achieve better results in every aspect of your life. Now is the time to make your health a top priority by applying the W.E.A.L.T.H strategy in your life.
5 pm - Great Skin Care at Every Age: Pearls and Pitfalls - presented by Dr. Sherrie G. Cass, DNP, FNP-C, Live Oak Med Spa
Discover the secrets to radiant, healthy, beautiful skin at every stage of life! This seminar explores essential skincare strategies tailored to each decade, from preventing premature signs of aging to combating dryness, lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging. Learn about game-changing skincare ingredients, effective routines, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you want to maintain a youthful glow or address specific concerns, this session offers professional insights and practical advice to help you achieve your best skin at any age.
5:30 pm - Understanding Joint Health:
From Anatomy to Action - An interactive seminar presented by members of the Dosher Memorial Hospital Orthopedic Team
Healthy joints are essential for maintaining mobility and an active lifestyle. This seminar will include education on joint anatomy and common issues affecting joints, the importance of maintaining joint health, common interventions for joint issues, and an overview of physical therapy exercises you can do to keep your joints healthy. This session will be presented by Dosher Orthopedic Nurse Navigator Chelsea Beard and Physical Therapist Tim Ryan
6 pm – Topic and Presenter TBA, Novant Health Room Two 4:30 pm — Topic and Presenter TBA, Novant Health
5:00 pm -Diabetes: The Changing Paradigm, Debra J Barnette PharmD, CDCES, BCACP, New Hope Clinic
5:30 pm - Eating with Purpose: The Impact of Macronutrients on Your Health & Fitness - Levi Annas, PT, DPT Elevate performance & Health
We will discuss how calories and macronutrients affect your bodies function, as well as the individual roles that each macronutrient plays in fueling your body.
Special activities like Dosher Memorial Hospital’s Healthy Eating Demonstration Kitchen with Chef Joe, and the Novant Health Mobile Mammography will also be available.
The Coastal Health, Fitness & Beauty Showcase is an event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Dosher Memorial Hospital, Cape Fear Fitness, Live Oak MedSpa and Novant Health.
For more information about the Coastal Health, Fitness & Beauty Showcase 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.coastalhealthfitnessbeauty.com
Community 2025 Gator Games
Athletic & Artisitic Competitions For Over 50s
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS BY CONTRIBUTED
Brunswick County residents older than age 50 have an opportunity to get involved in a fun community event, indulge that competitive spirit, and exercise both their physical and creative muscles at the 2025 Senior Gator Games and Silver Arts Competition. Last year Brunswick County fielded 636 competitors, more than any of the 53 local competitions, and more than 100 winners went on the complete at the state level, according to Gator Games Ambassadors Chris and Gary Ettl-Mlynek.
Many people don’t know that Senior Games is a national event too. North Carolina Senior Games is a member of the National Senior Games Association. National Senior Games occurs every two years, in various locations across the country. The 2025 National Senior Games will be held in Des Moines, Iowa, said Chris and Gary.
Men and women who are 50 years and older by Dec. 31, 2025 and who have resided in North Carolina for a minimum of three consecutive months are eligible to register and compete. Registration closes on March 12 for paper entries and March 19 for online entries (see the QR code in the accompanying graphic).
All the materials for the games, including paper registration forms, are available in the lobbies of all the Brunswick Se-
nior Resources senior centers (in Leland, Southport, Supply, Shallotte and Calabash) as well as local recreation and senior centers such as the Recreation Center, Senior Center and Community Center in Oak Island. The entry fee is only $15 per participant.
Events take place April 2 through May 16 and include more than 70 athletic events and arts categories. Athletic events include individual events like running, swimming and even billiards; partner events such as bowling and pickleball; and team events in softball and 3-on-3 basketball. Silver Arts categories include Heritage Arts such as basket weaving, pottery and needlework; Visual Arts such as drawing, pastels and sculpture; and Literary Arts like poetry and fiction. New this year will be disc golf and metal working.
there is lots of talent out there! We need them!” Said Chris and Gary.
Chris and Gary have been Games Ambassadors since 2022 and say they’ve had a great time. “The best part is meeting new people! The biggest challenge — getting people to believe that there really is something for everyone. You don’t
have to be the best...just come out and give something a try and have fun. All skill levels are welcome in both athletics and arts!”
For more information, contact Khrystye Haselden, the GA,es Local Coordinator, at 910-253-2670 or k.haslelden@brunswickcountync.gov, or visit the NC Senior Games website at ncseniorgames.org.
Performing Arts will be showcased at the Silver Arts
Follies on Friday, May 16, at 11 am at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Way. The Follies will include performers in vocals, dance, instruments, drama and even cheer teams!
“We would love to get more people involved in SilverArts! Especially the performing arts. We know
Golf Tips
Nicole’s Golf Notes
Putting Pointers Part 3: Putter
Path
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.
Whatis putting other than rolling a ball into a hole across an uneven surface? Seems simple, right? It can be simpler if we let it and there is always a mix of both luck and skill that produces results. Some keys are an effective putter face, path and centeredness of contact through impact after a good green read. In this article, we’ll focus a bit on a good putting path..
If 85 percent of the initial ball direction off the putter face is due to putter face, then 15 percent is due to putter path. Does the player make a stroke that moves too much away or toward himself during impact? Too much away (push) or too much toward (pull) sends the ball off on the wrong initial line, and as accurate as one needs to be within several feet of the hole, getting the ball started on the correct line is pretty paramount, part of the challenge of the game!
Come See Our Pumpkin Patch Today!
Often times mis-aim (aiming too far to the side and then pulling the ball back to the target) and ball position have a direct negative impact on the path. Check with set-up keys first, that’s low-hanging fruit… check aim, body alignment, ball position, swing center/eyes and other factors together with a coach or training tool. I like using an Eyeline Golf small putting mirror to check that eyes are over the ball or slightly inside the ball line depending on the players’ preference.
I once had a young student playing in a
regional qualifier whose Dad was caddying for her while I caddied for her older sister. On one hole we passed and he said she was pulling every putt today. Later, I asked how she was doing and the dad said she was making everything! I said not to change anything as she had found out that day how to match what she saw with her swing and was able to drop a lot of putts that way! (She ended up qualifying) Plan A always there but as we know, golf can quickly shift to plans B, C and others!
Some players like a straight-backstraight-through swing in which the putter head stays on the putting line and the hands arc (mallet style putters). Some like a slight arc in which, as the golfer rotates around his or her center, the putter head moves in a slight arc inside the putting line, returns just inside the putting line back to the top of the arc and then follows through just inside the putting line in the finish (putter face stays perpendicular to the arc but looks open and closed to the target line). That’s how I putt. Others have a very large arc and use putters that look more like a field hockey stick, the putters have more toe flow. It depends on a person’s style.
The SAM Putt Lab data shows a person if he or she is close or really off on path and then can check set-up and motion goals.
Two of my favorite path drills are as follows:
1)Yardstick Putting: Get a metal yard-
stick and place the ball at one end of the yardstick. How far can you roll your putt up the yardstick before it falls off to the side?
Set and beat your record. Can you get a ball to actually roll straight off the other end of the yardstick? It’s hard! Make some rehearsal swings and notice if you’re using your chest or your hands more, the goal is the least amount of wasted and unnecessary motion with this quiet skill that precision. You can see this drill on my website under
Media Videos or my YouTube channel.
a.How many out of 10 can you roll off the end of the yardstick?
b.How many in a row is your career record rolling off the end of the yardstick?
2)Putting Track or Rail: I like using the Eyeline Golf Edge Rail (70 degrees for slight arc or 90 degrees for straight-backstraight-through) to have students learn what it feels to keep the putter literally on the correct path. I have students start with no golf ball, just to feel the putter heel scrape/swing constantly against the track. Then we introduce the ball with the same swing in which the putter stays on the track back and forth and stays on the track at the ending (I don’t like seeing the putter head come off from the track at the end). Then we move half an inch away from the track with the putter heel and see if the student can maintain the swing on his or her own without guidance from the track. If I hear the Gong Show with putter heads clanking against the track during the swing, I know we’re not on track! Feel free to check out Eyeline Golf through my website under Products.
Eyeline Golf small putting mirror
FISHING REPORT
March Fishing Report
As Temperatures Warm, Fishing Heats Up
BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK
Well, February is over, and winter should be as well. It’s been a brutal one, with frigid conditions, wind, wind, and more wind. We did not get many days of fishing due to the weather, and when we did, we were met with cold water. The good news is that spring is right around the corner, and the fishing should pick up very quickly.
Inshore
Red drum are the best game in town right now. The water is still on the chilly side, so look for the drum to be schooled up on the flats and in the backs of creeks at midday, taking advantage of shallow, warm water. You can use soft plastics, fresh shrimp, or a quartered blue crab to catch them. A quiet approach and long, accurate casts will greatly improve your odds of getting a bite when you spot a school of fish. Work the bait very slowly. In many cases, you will see the fish approach your bait, making it much easier to hook your catch. I like to use soft plastics in bright colors, such as electric chicken, because they are easier to see in the water.
With the trout season closed, we are giving them a break to recover, but they are still around, just moving slowly. Look for trout in deep holes of feeder creeks and use baits like Vudu shrimp or paddle tail
baits to entice a bite.
The whiting will also be showing up this month. This is a super fun fishery that does not take a lot of planning or effort to be successful, and they are absolutely delicious to eat. Some of the best spots are on the north side of the river channel near Bald Head Island. Look for the deep sloughs that dump into the river channel and anchor there. A simple two-hook drop rig with a two-ounce pyramid weight, cut shrimp, and small, long-shank hooks are all you need. As the month progresses and the water warms up, fishing should improve, and we expect to see the first flounder of the year. Rumor has it that we will be getting a flounder season this year, but it remains to be seen when and how long it will last. Fingers crossed!
Nearshore
Finally, there’s something to report here. When the water hits 60-65 degrees, we will see our first Spanish mackerel of the year. Troll small Clarkspoons behind a #1 or #2 planer with 25-30 feet of 20# fluorocarbon. You can also cast diamond jigs on light spinning tackle if you see schools of fish jumping and feeding. Last year, we had an exciting showing of Atlantic bonito, and all indications suggest we should see them again this year in March. You can catch them using the same techniques as Spanish mackerel. The key is knowing where to find them. In my experience, they generally hold a little deeper than the Spanish. Places like Yaupon Reef, McGlamery Reef, and Lighthouse Rocks typically produce good catches, with the best fishing being first thing in the morning.
Offshore
The black sea bass fishing can be nothing short of spectacular in March. They can be found in solid numbers and large sizes in 55-80 feet of water. Using a two-hook chicken rig with cut squid will give you all
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 action you want.
Big chomper bluefish can be found at Frying Pan Tower. These fish are super fun to catch on light spinning tackle and will eat just about anything you throw at them. We love to mix it up and throw topwater plugs — because who doesn’t love seeing fish explode on topwater baits? You can use Zara Spooks, poppers, or anything in between to catch them.
Vermillion snapper will be holding on rock piles and ledges in 80-100 feet of water. Just like the sea bass, a simple chicken rig with cut squid will do the trick. When the water temperature hits 68-72 degrees, we should start seeing some king mackerel offshore, though that’s usually a little later in the month.
Gulf Stream
This is the transition time for the Gulf
Stream. While fishing can be good, you can also go out there and find less-than-ideal trolling conditions. Typically, in March, blackfin tuna fishing is excellent. There are a few wahoo around, but the tuna fishing is on fire. Pulling small ballyhoo on 50-60# fluorocarbon, cedar plugs, and tuna feathers fished way back will get you lots of action. Spring is in the air, and we are on the verge of some fun fishing, as well as mild to warm days. I cannot wait! This fisherman is headed to the Bahamas in mid-March and I’ll be there through April. We still have some dates available if you want to experience some amazing nearshore blue marlin action. While I will still do a local fishing report next month, I will also touch on what we’re up to down south—hopefully with some pretty cool action shots. Get out there and enjoy the spring!
Keeping Fit
Owning Up To Facts
Facing The Truth Can Change Your Reality
BY VICTOR FERNANDES
Victor Fernandes is owner of Fernandez Fit, helpjng clients achieve personal and pro fessional success through health and fitness
Iknow what I need to do. I just don’t do it.
Do you? I mean, do you really?
Because the first thing you need to do is recognize you have a problem with your health and well-being. The only way to solve a problem is to acknowledge that one exists.
Solutions that seem out of reach for so long suddenly become clear, because you finally realize finding solutions to your problems with health and well-being are the priority. A necessary mindset shift involves transitioning from ignoring problems, and expecting them to disappear on their own, to concentrating on the solutions required to address those problems.
Thinking about why we neglect our health and well-being will lead you to the same harsh but inevitable reality so many of us have faced, including me. The real reason why you struggle with your health and well-being is…
YOU.
If I placed an apple and bag of potato chips in front of you, I’m certain you could pick out which you should eat. If I placed a bottle of water and can of soda in front of you, I’m certain you could pick out which you should drink.
Yet, studies
show that more than 40 percent of the popula tion in this coun try is deemed obese, while 70plus percent are considered over weight.
Of course, everyone’s cir cumstances are different. For example, there may be underlying health issues that have proven to be a challenge for so many peo ple for too long, which make losing weight and getting healthy difficult. But for many people, there is a common thread that leads them to not do what they know they should do to not become part of those so bering statistics.
There’s an effective way to start facing that scenario – reframe the statement so many use, the statement I addressed in the first sentence of this article.
Recite the following statement – ““I know what I need to do. I just don’t care enough about my health and well-being to
Art Beat
Fat Cat Pottery Pottery Adds Brunswick County Location
STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM
In 1998, potter Mary Holden-Hall established Fat Cat Pottery in Wilmington, quickly transforming it into a beloved community studio for ceramic artists. The studio soon evolved as a pottery supply retail store and an excellent membership-based studio that offered various pottery classes and workshops. This unique membership model allowed ceramic artists to access dedicated workspace, share ideas, and collaborate on projects, fostering a supportive community of potters. To this day, Fat Cat Pottery fills a need for local potters in Wilmington and surrounding areas who need local access to pottery supplies and ongoing classes. And now Fat Cat has expanded into Southern Brunswick County with a new studio in Sunset Beach.
In October 2023, after decades of running the studio, Mary retired, passing the torch of ownership to two passionate potters, Sarah Worley and Stephanie Bennett. These two women were no strangers to Fat Cat. Sarah was born and raised in Wilmington and joined Fat Cat Pottery as a member in 2012. After a brief hiatus to homeschool her children during the pandemic, Sarah returned to her pottery practice, realizing how much she missed creating art with clay. Her dedication and love for the craft led her to take on a part-time job at Fat Cat Pottery, ultimately paving her way
to become a co-owner.
Stephanie, a retired hairstylist with a lifelong passion for functional pottery, moved to Wilmington in 1978. She began taking pottery classes as a hobby, drawn by her affection for collecting beautiful, handcrafted pottery. Her skills evolved, and she found fulfillment in working as a studio technician and membership coordinator, ensuring members had the resources and support they needed to grow as artists.
Before becoming business partners, Sarah and Stephanie collaborated as employees at Fat Cat Pottery, combining their strengths in administration and studio management. Their complementary skills and shared vision for the studio set the stage for their successful partnership. Together, they officially took ownership of Fat Cat Pottery in October 2023, ready to continue its legacy while infusing it with their unique perspectives and ideas for growth.
“We offer a wide range of classes from beginners to highly experienced artists to advance their skills,” said Stephanie. “Classes are five-week sessions one day a week for three hours. They include clay, tools, and glazing. All students will end the session with functional pottery they can be proud of creating. Fat Cat Pottery hosts a variety of workshops as well, from facial sculpting to birdhouse building and everything in between,” she said. “Fat Cat
Pottery offers 24-hour access to our experienced members. We currently have 65 members who create in clay. Some members are production workers, and some just like to create in a stress-free, fun environment. We offer general public firing services for artists with home studios without access to a private kiln.”
As the number of potters in the area, including Wilmington and Brunswick County, has grown, so has the need for supplies and classes. “Fat Cat Pottery is proud to have our new Seaside location (at 1641 Seaside Rd SW). We have often been asked about having a location in south Brunswick County. In November 2024, we opened a small retail store and a working membership studio. We have been thrilled with the response. This location also has a 24hour studio. Our plans in 2025 are to host ceramic workshops throughout the year, with most of them being three-day advanced classes, including throwing bigger pots, altering, surface design, and slip
design,” she said.
“Fat Cat Pottery’s retail store on Blue Clay Road in Wilmington has everything ceramic artists need or want. We currently carry brands like Amaco, Mayco, Spectrum, and Laguna glazes. Kemper, Mudtools, Xiem, Garrity, Etched Earth, GR Forms, and Stan Simmons tools. Our clay choices are Standard Ceramics and Laguna. If there is something you need that we don’t carry, we will be happy to order it for you. We also carry pottery equipment, to include Skutt and L & L Kilns. Shimpo and Pacifica potters’ wheels. We do offer services for the repair of kiln and wheels.”
2025 is gearing up to be a fabulously creative year for Fat Cat Pottery!
Mark your calendars for these fantastic workshops:
•Karen Godwin & Stan Simmons Intermediate Throwing and Slip Design, May 17-18
•Brian Evans Altered Forms, June 20-22
•Steve Kelly Surface Design and Glaze Work, July 11-13
•POT FEST! Nov 1
•Melissa Russel Throwing and Altered Forms Workshop, Seagrove Tour, and even more special events throughout the year!
The owners and staff of Fat Cat Pottery enjoy working with and supporting the pottery community. They strive to keep the art of ceramics growing through education, offering space to create and tools to keep the artists going strong.
website: Fatcatpottery.com email: info@fatcatpottery.com telephone: 910-395-2529(Wilmington) Telephone: 910-395-2529 (Sunset Beach)
Weaponizing Food
March Brunswick Civil War Round Table
STORY CONTRIBUTED
During the Civil War, “weaponizing food” referred to the strategic use of food as a tool of war. This involved tactics aimed at disrupting the enemy’s food supply, thereby weakening their forces and undermining their war effort. Many tactical options became reality, like simply cutting off enemy supply lines; foraging and raiding farms and businesses; using scorched earth tactics by destroying crops and livestock; or, surrounding cities or fortifications to cut off access to food supplies.
In essence, weaponizing led to hunger, malnutrition and suffering, leading to overall deteriorating battle morale and effectiveness on both sides. This brief description leads us to an even more comprehensive and rarely discussed Civil War topic when returning guest speakers Judkin Browning and Timothy Silver delve into this topic entitled, “Weaponizing Food: From Antietam to Vicksburg” at the Tuesday, March 4 meeting of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach.
From the fall of 1862 through the summer of 1863, faced with the prospect of a starving army, Gen. Robert E. Lee made the decision to invade the North, resulting in the Battle of Antietam, a strategic victory for Federal forces that helped turn the tide of war in favor of the Union. The desire to acquire more food also motivated Lee to launch a second invasion of the North in the summer of 1863, leading to the defeat at Gettysburg. In July 1863, food (or the lack thereof) played a crucial role in the siege of Vicksburg, a city many thought was impregnable.
Meanwhile, across the South, the Union
ferred by the Southern Environmental Law Center. He currently teaches courses focused on the environmental histories of areas, including the South and Southern Appalachia, as well as national and state parks.
blockade, foraging armies, and loss of farmland left civilians struggling to avoid starvation as they faced shortages and soaring prices for staples like flour and bacon. By the end of summer, 1863, fully one-third of the Confederacy’s farmland had been occupied by Federal forces, dramatically reducing the southern food supply. The South’s continuing focus on cash crops only added to the crisis. In contrast, agricultural production in the Midwest (untouched by war) boomed, and advances in technology and distribution techniques made the Union army the best fighting force in history. As summarized by guest speakers Browning and Silver, “it might well be said that food, as much or more than military strategy, decided the outcome of the Civil War.”
Dr. Judkin Browning is Professor of Military History, and serves as the Director of Appalachian State University’s Master of
Arts in History degree program. He is a prolific writer, editor, and author of three books, including “An Environmental History of the Civil War,” published in 2020. He is currently working on projects that explore North Carolina deserters during the Civil War, as well as the long-term effects of battles on soldiers and their families and communities. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida State University, earned his M.A. in public history from North Carolina State University, and holds a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia.
Dr. Timothy Silver holds a Ph.D. from the College of William and Mary. He is another prolific author, as well as an award-winning author given by the North Carolina Literary and Historical Association, and the Phillip D. Reed Memorial Award for Outstanding Writing on the Southern Environment con-
Registration for the meeting begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome. The visitor fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues. For more information about the meeting, the easy online program registration process, how to attend meetings via ZOOM, or how to become a member, email president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail. com. Or, call him directly at 404-229-9425. Also, you can visit their informative website at Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com, or the Facebook page for additional information, news, and updates.
Smithville Tavern
Civil War Round Table Ladies Forum
STORY CONTRIBUTED
The Civil War Ladies’ Forum, sponsored by the Brunswick Civil War Round Table, eagerly anticipates its upcoming annual meeting on Monday, March 10, featuring guest speaker Mary Duffy, Smithville tavern owner. Actually, Mary is Liz Fuller, president of the Southport Historical Society, who will portray Mary in her Civil War period dress. The meeting will be held in Murrow Hall at Trinity United Methodist Church in Southport, across from the U.S. Post Office.
Mary Duffy was a widow who was well known in what was then Smithville during the 1800s. In fact, her only grandson fought for the Confederacy during the war. Since Smithville was a rather small fishing village on the Cape Fear River at the time, you can only imagine
the stories she has to tell on any number of subjects. To make a long story short, she has a wealth of stories, and some little known secrets, about life’s trials and tribulations during the War of Southern Independence. During those war years, she and her friends experienced nu-
merous frustrations, hardships, and importantly, the unknown. With all these pent up facts and emotions, she is eager to share with her audience, the spirit, resolve, and determination these women of Smithville experienced.
Liz is a popular local historian who is a frequent speaker at local historical and civic organizations on a wide variety of topics relating to Southport’s history. She is known for her ability to foster a more intimate connection to the past by highlighting the lives of everyday people within the context of larger historical events, the Civil War era being an important one. With her vast knowledge, she frequently writes guest columns and articles on
Southport history in The State Port Pilot. In addition, she is the author of the recently published book, “Southport’s Secret Suffragist: The Story of Anna Alena Clemons.”
In addition, the evening’s program will also feature Carolee Morris. She has a keen interest in history, including graduate studies as well as oratorical and speaking contests. She will be reading a selection from Mark Twain’s “Tom Sawyer.” The selected story, its time frame, subject matter, and Twain’s inimitable humor will be a complement to Liz Fuller’s presentation.
The program will take place from 6-8 pm and is a free event for all women members of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table. There is a $5 fee for guests, which can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues to the Round Table. For more information, or to make a reservation, please contact us at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com.
FOLSOI, Up Your Arts, and the City of Southport: Opera Sunday, 2 PM, Southport Community Building
Southport Parks and Rec: Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 10 AM, Franklin Square Park
Springfest, 10 AM - 6 PM, Downtown Southport
Cape Fear Cruisers Car Show, 10 AM - 4 PM, Downtown Southport
- 3rd Up Your Arts: Southport Plein Air Festival
Southport Community Relations: Southport Summer Market begins, 10 AM - 4 PM, Waterfront Park, Weekly
Southport Community Relations: Southport Concert Series begins, 6 PM - 8 PM, Franklin Square Park, Weekly
NC 4th of July Festival begins
NC Fourth of July Festival Ends
NC Maritime Museum: 250th Anniversary of the Burning of Fort Johnston | 9 AM - 9 PM | Garrison Lawn & Community Building
Southport Community Relations: Food Truck Rodeo, 11 AM - 3 PM, Fort Johnston - Southport Museum & Visitors’ Center
Southport Summer Market last day, 10 AM - 4 PM, Waterfront Park
Southport Concert Series final night, 6 PM - 8 PM, Franklin Square Park
Southport Parks & Recreation: Children’s Crab Derby, 8:30 AM Registration, Southport City Dock
Holly Days, 9 AM - 4 PM, Southport Baptist Church
Southport Wooden Boat Show, 10 AM - 4 PM, Old Yacht Basin
Southport Lions Club: 80th Anniversary Car Show and Family Fun Day
- 4th U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament
Southport Parks & Recreation: Captain Charlie‘s Children's Fishing Tournament, 8 AM Registration, Southport City Pier
Southport Parks & Recreation: Spook or Treat, 5 PM - 6:30 PM, 209 N. Atlantic Ave
Cape Fear Cruisers Car Show, 10 AM - 4 PM, Downtown Southport
13th WINTERFEST activities
Ireland’s Most Exciting Young Tenor with a golden voice
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2025
7:30 PM
One of the most dynamic modern dance ensembles of our time
SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 2025
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2025
7:30 PM
An uproariously funny, comedy dog spectacular
SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 2025
2:00 PM + 7:00 PM
Main Attractions Season Tickets On Sale Now. www.Th alianHall.org
CALENDAR
You’ll notice this month’s Calendar is bigger and carries more information from all of Brunswick County. We publish three magazines — Southport Magazine, Leland Magazine, and Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine. We love collecting details about all the of the fun events from all across our county and thought that everyone in the county, no matter which magazine they read, should be able to see all of the opportunities our community offers. We hope you’ll find something unexpected in this month’s Calendar and we really encourage you to hop in the car and go to something you’ve never expereinced before..
March
We’ve included events here that were scheduled at press time, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change.
MARCH 1
Musical Bingo
The SE Brunswick Women’s Association hosts this fundraiser, with proceeds to benefit Oak Island Water Rescue. The evening includes four bingo cards to get you started, raffles, and prizes. Tickets are $25, and the event is 1-3:30 pm at 801 Ocean Events Center, 801 Ocean Drive on Oak Island.
MARCH 4
Blood Drive — Palmetto Creek
The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive, 10 am to 3 pm at the Palmetto Creek Club House, 1195 Palmetto Creek Way, Bolivia. Donors should sign up online at redcrossblod.org. Visit the site to find out more about the critical need for blood and if you’re eligible to donate.
MARCH 4
Brunswick Civil War Round Table
Judkin Browning and Timothy Silver will lead a session on “Weaponizing Food: From Antietam to Vicksburg.” They recognize that the Civil War was much more than a military conflict. It was also a time when environmental issues came into play; e.g., like food supplies, weather, topography, animals, disease, etc., all impacting the outcome of key battles from Antietam and Vicksburg. The group meets at Hatch Auditorium at Fort Caswell; doors open at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Anyone can attend; the cost is $10
but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues.
MARCH 5
Wine, Women and Chocolate — Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce
Chocolate, wine and plenty of local vendors featuring their goods and services. There are also lots of raffle items, and did we mention there’s chocolate? This well-attended fundraiser for the Brunswick Chamber of Commerce is 5:30-7:30 pm at Sea Trail Resort & Convention Center, 75 Clubhouse Road, Sunset Beach. Tickets are $50 and include one drink ticket and one raffle ticket; visit https://form.jotform. com/243453840205148
MARCH 8
NC Rice Festival — Brunswick Town/ Fort Anderson
Tour the state historic site and enjoy history/cultural presentations, demonstrations, live entertainment, family fun, children’s stage, Gullah Geechee food vendors, and arts/crafts. The festival is 10 am to 5 pm at the site, 8884 Saint Philips Road SE, Winnabow (off NC 133).
MARCH 8
Contra Dance — Leland
This is an active social dance open to dancers of all abilities. The evening starts with a beginner’s lesson at 7 pm. Tickets available through the Town of Leland, and the dance will be at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
MARCH 11
The Making of Aila’s Journal — Harper library
The Southport Historical Society, 2nd Tuesday Talk is “The Making of Aila’s Journal.” The talk features author and SHS member Charlie Clemmons, who notes that his book “Aila’s Journal: A Tale of Southern Reconstruction” is a work of introspection, with a primary purpose of encouraging the examination of history’s relevance to today’s values. Charlie will present the results of his historical research on the Reconstruction Era and how that actual history served as a backdrop for the tale in the novel. The talk is at 10 am at the library, 109 W. Moore St. Call 910-457-6237 to reserve your seat.
MARCH
11
Coastal Health, Fitness & Wellness Showcase — Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce
Learn about all the wonderful health, fitness and wellness services available in the area at this annual showcase. The event is 4-7 pm at the St.. James Community Center, 4136 Southport-Supply Road (NC 211). There will be seminars, free samples, free health screenings, free giveaways, a $100 Cash Drawing and a Pick-A-Prize auction.
MARCH 14
Kayak Adventures — Eagles Island
Paddle along Sturgeons Creek to Eagles Island and then go exploring. The Eagles Island trek is scheduled for 2-4:30 pm and the fee is $60.
MARCH 14
Community Outreach: Bunny Trail “Campsites” — Northwest District Park Activity- and engagement-based stops for participants to play games or activities, engage with community groups, and gather eggs, candy, or prizes in their baskets. Businesses and organizations who wish to host a campsite can learn more below and complete the interest form online at townofleland. com. The fun starts at 5 pm, 1937 Andrew Jackson Hwy (U.S. 74), Leland.
MARCH 15
Spring Into Health
Join the Brunswick Wellness Coalition for its annual 5k/1 mile run, walk, stroll, or whatever you do to get moving. All ages, skill levels and abilities are welcome to participate. It’s the Ides of March, and Roman toga attire is encouraged. The run kicks off at 9 am at Dosher Memorial Hospital (924 N/ Howe St., Southport). Visit brunswickwellness.org to register your team.
MARCH 18
Wild Wetlands Lecture — Leland
Learn more about the creatures that live in our wetlands how they can be protected. The lecture is at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, 6-7 pm. The event is free, but seating is limited and online registration is encouraged.
MARCH 20
Business Expo & Biz Breakfast Series
The Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual event, featuring lots of local businesses and highlighting services and products available. The event starts with a breakfast featuring keynote speaker Karen Barefoot (Director of Business Development – Champion of Strategic Planning) from 8-10 am. The Expo is 10 am to 4 pm at Sea Trail Convention Center, 75A Clubhouse Road, Sunset Beach.
MARCH 22
Book Sale — Friends of the Leland Library
Find some great new-to-you books at this used book sale hosted by the Friends of the Leland Library. The sale is 9 am to 3 pm at the Leland Library, 487 Village Road. Prices start at 10 cents for children’s books, 50 cents for paperbacks and $1 for hardcover books. Visit friendsofthelelandlibrary.com for more information about the group or to become a member. The group helps support the summer reading program and special purchases for the library.
MARCH 22
Lend a Hand Leland
This community-side day of service brings together individuals and organizations to make a positive impact in the community. Projects will be completed
from 8-11 am; visit https://www.townofleland.com/lendahand to register for a project.
MARCH 22
Spring Fling — Oak Island
Let’s get the season started right with this spring festival, noon to 4 pm at the Middleton Park fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive. The festivities include an artisans market, food vendors, kids games and live music from Hood’s Creek.
MARCH 22
Birding at Ev-Henwood Nature Preserve
Explore nature with a guide who will lead participants along a trail, point out various bird species, share facts about their appearance and behaviors, and offer tips on birdwatching techniques including birding by ear. Supplies needed: binoculars, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. These trails are in nature preserves, meaning they are not paved. Participants should be able to navigate uneven terrain. The program is 10-11:30 am, and the registration fee is $10.
MARCH 27
Southport Historical Society General Meeting
All are welcome to attend the Southport Historical Society General Meeting, held at 6:30 pm at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. Join SHS members Tom Milner and the Southport Shanty Crew as they explore the rich and diverse music of the Civil War era. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how music influenced the experiences and morale of both those on the frontlines and those on the home front!
MARCH 28
Youth Arts Celebration — Leland
Magician Michael Mario’s family friendly “No Sleeves Magic” takes center stage from 7-9 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way. The evening also includes awards presentation for the 2025 Youth Arts Month. Tickets are $15.
MARCH 29
Spring Art Show — Oak Island
Oak Island debuts a Spring Art Show with an opening reception, 7-9 pm at the Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive. Featured artwork will be on display at the Recreation Center through the following week. To find out how you can enter the show, email ekincer@oakislandnc.gov.
MARCH 29
Pyrates Parlay — Sea Trail
The Brunswick Arts Council hosts this fundraiser with plenty of pirates, mermaids, music, food and more. Pirate costumes are encouraged, and there will even be a costume contest. The parlay is 5-9 pm at Sea Trail Resort & Convention Center, 75 Clubhouse Road, Sunset Beach. Tickets are $100; visit https://www.brunswickartscouncil.org.
MARCH 29
Oak Island Beach Preservation Society
Wine Tasting
It’s an afternoon of “Grape Expectations” for the group, 2-5 pm at 801 Ocean Events Center on Oak Island (810 Ocean Drive). There will be hors d’oeuvres and selected wines from local vendors. The event also features a silent auction. Tickets are $55 and are available at The Grape & Ale, 8521 E. Oak Island Drive. Proceeds from the event will be used for education and community engagement for beach protection and enhancement.
MARCH 29 &APRIL 29
Frog Watch Volunteer Training
Learn how to help FrogWatch USA keep track of the frog populations. Training is 10 am to 4 pm on March 29 and 10 am to 1 pm on April 5; training is held at the LCAC, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland. Participants will learn how to identify specials by their sounds. Youth volunteers must be registered with a guardian.
MARCH 29-30
Sea Notes Spring Concert
The Sea Notes Choral Society perform “Celebrating Spring, Celebrating Life,” with songs to help us welcome our next season. Performances are at 3 pm at Odell Williamson Auditorium,
on the campus of Brunswick Community College, 150 College Road NE, Bolivia.
APRIL 1
Brunswick Civil War Round Table
Sarah Bierle, researcher, author, and managing editor of Emerging Civil War will present “John Pelham: Trained at West Point but Aiming Artillery for the Confederacy.” As an artillery officer, he was instrumental in creating the concept of horse artillery. The group meets at Hatch Auditorium at Fort Caswell; doors open at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Anyone can attend; the cost is $10 for non-members but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues.
APRIL 5
Community Yard Sale — Belville
Belville residents can do a little spring cleaning and sell gently-used housewares, books, clothing, toys, etc. (no crafts). Register at https://belvillepr. recdesk.com/Community. The sale is 7 am to noon at Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road SE.
APRIL 12
America 250th: Women of Brunswick — Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson Enjoy living history demonstrations that focus on the women who worked and lived at the Port of Brunswick. Get a chance to see what their life was like and dive into a new perspective of our local history. This is a free event for all ages, 10 am to 4 pm at the historic site, 8884 Saint Philips Road SE, Winnabow (off NC 133).
APRIL 12
Kiwanis Club Duck Derby
The Kiwanis Club launches this fundraising event, Dinah E. Gore Sports & Aquatics Complex at Brunswick Community College in Bolivia. Ducks are $5 each or five for $20, and the racing starts at 1 pm. A maximum of 2,500 ducks will be sold, and there will be awards of $500 to the winning duck, $250 to the second-place finisher, $100 for third, and a “lame duck” prize of a $25 gift card will be given to the duck that finishes last. Proceeds will benefit the Kiwanis Club programs, which focus on helping children in Brunswick County.
APRIL 19
18th Century Easter Litany — Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson
Celebrate Easter with a period Anglican service in the ruins of St. Philips Church. Visitors will be welcomed to the site starting at 6:45 am, and the service begins at 6:45 am. Seating is not provided, but attendees may bring their own chairs. The site will remain open until 5 pm.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Odell Williamson Auditorium
150 College Road NW, Bolivia (Brunswick Community College)
March 1 — The Brothers Doobie - A Tribute to the Doobie Brothers
March 31 — The U.S. Navy Band Tour Visit https://bccowa.com/.
Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College
701 N. Third St., Wilmington
March 4-5 — The Addams Family musical
March 7-8 — Champions of Magic
March 14 — The Righteous Brothers
March 15 — The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra presents Bernstein, Copland, and Torke
March 21-23 — The Book of Mormon
March 25 — Lila Downs
March 26 — “The Simon & Garfunkel Story”
March 30 — The Golden Girls North American Tour
April 11 — Iron & Wine, American singer-songwriter Sam Beam
April 14 — Our Planet Live, a natural history speaker series featuring Sophie Lanfear
April 15 — Beth Hart
April 21 — “Clue,” part of the PNC Broadway series
April 25 — Larry the Cable Guy Visit https://wilsoncentertickets.com for more information.
CALENDAR
Thalian Hall
310 Chestnut St., Wilmington
March 6 — Tenor Emmet Cahill
March 9 — New Orleans Songbook, a Jazz at Lincoln Center PRESENTS production
March 13 — Paul Taylor Dance Company
March 15 — Canines and comedy collide in “Mutts Gone Nuts: Unleashed”
March 27 — Comedy with Billy D. Washington
March 28 — Bluegrass Bash
April 4-13 — Thalian Community Association presents “Mary Poppins”
April 10 — Comedian Darren Carter
Check https://www.thalianhall.org/ calendar for more information.
ONGOING EVENTS
Friends of the Library Southport & Oak Island
The Libraries are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 6 pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am - 6 pm; and Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm. The Once More used bookstore, at Southport Realty (727 N. Howe St.), with new-to-you books, is open Monday through Friday from 11 am to 3 pm and Saturdays 10 am to noon. Visit https:// folsoi.org/blog/ for information on summer youth programs.
Barbee Library, 8200 E. Oak Island Drive: Call 910-278-4283 for details on children’s story time and other programs. The Lifelong Learners Group meets at 10 am on Thursdays and the Socrates Cafe meets Mondays at 9:30 am.
Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., Southport: Call 910-457-6237 to 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. The March Deep Dive Into History program is March 29, 10 am to 3 pm. 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. Tours can be for parties of four or more. 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. There are book clubs, kayak tours in the Davis Canal, surf fishing lessons, and much more. Visit https://parksrec. egov.basgov.com/oakislandnc for details on programs.
Franklin Square Art Gallery
The Gallery is open 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday and can be found at 130 E. West St., next to Franklin Square Park.
First Friday Gallery Walk — Southport
The First Friday Gallery Walk is 5-7 pm in Southport at participating galleries, such as Lantana’s, The Rickey Evans Gallery, the Franklin Square Art Gallery, Artisans on Howe and the Intracoastal Realty Downtown Southport Office. Stroll along and browse in the shops to see what local artists have to offer.
Bingo at the Elks Lodge — Oak Island
Bingo games are 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 6:30 pm. Snacks and drinks available for purchase (cash or checks only). Progressive Jackpot and winner take all coverall.
Battleship North Carolina — near Leland
Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year, such as Memorial Day observances, Battleship 101 (March 8), Hidden Battleship for a behind-the-scenes tour (March 22) and more. Visit https:// battleshipnc.com/. The battleship site
is at 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington (west side of the Cape Fear River).
Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market
Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road, Belville
Shop for produce, ice cream, and fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River. Hours are Fridays 11 am to 5:30 pm; Saturdays 10 am to 5:30 pm; and Sundays 10 am to 4 pm. The market re-opens in midMarch.
Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson
State Historic Site
8884 St. Philips Rd. SE, Winnabow
There is plenty to do and see, with a museum, historic ruins, great information on the site’s history, and some of the most beautiful riverfront property in the County. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Guided tours are now available, at 10 am on Fridays and Saturdays; the cost is $5.
Museum of Coastal Carolina
21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach
The Museum is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Touch tank feedings are 11 am to noon on Thursdays.
Ingram Planetarium
7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach
The Planetarium is open Thursdays through Saturdays; dome shows start on the hour from 11 am to 3 pm. Laser shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 6 pm and 7 pm. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule, including special holiday shows.
Leland Library
487 Village Road NE
Baby storytime is at 10 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and Pre-K and older storytime is at 11 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
4th Friday Art Market
Shop among 30-plus vendors, eat, dance and enjoy spending time with friends and neighbors at this monthly market next to Shuckin’ Shack Oyster
Bar (1175 Turlington Avenue, in Brunswick Forest). The market is open from 4-8 pm.
Town of Leland/Parks & Recreation
Check out https://www.townofleland. com/parks-recreation-and-cultural-resources for more information on classes and programs, including starting an art journal, pottery, gardening, writing creative nonfiction, acting, dance and more.
Wilmington
River Tours
212 S. Water St., Wilmington Tour the beautiful Cape Fear River and learn more about the area’s history and ecology. Sunset cruises include acoustic music Thursdays through Sundays! Tours are offered daily, to the north along historic downtown Wilmington, the USS North Carolina Battleship and Eagles Island on the even hours, and to the south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and past the shipyard on the odd hours; visit https://wilmingtonwatertours.net/ for schedules and to purchase tickets.
Art League of Leland (ALL) at the Leland Cultural Arts Center
The group welcomes artists of all kinds and meets monthly (except in summer months) 4-6 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
MARKETPLACE
HOMES/LAND FOR SALE
194 ST. BRENDAN CT | $789,900. Perfectly placed in the heart of the city, this custom-built Southport home is ideally located near the waterfront, locally-owned shops, restaurants, parks and historic sites. Features include an open floor plan, 1st floor primary suite, Caribbean Heart Pine floors, tall ceilings, custom kitchen cabinetry and fine craftsmanship in this lovely home. Upstairs you will find a 4th bedroom or bonus room and climate controlled storage. Make plans to tour this easily accessible home and sit a while on the simply southern front porch! Call Sally Stidham, Southport Realty, Inc., (910) 540-8320, for more information.
1101 BUCHANAN RD | $399,000. This beautiful home features a double garage, handicap-accessible doorways & shower, and is situated on a large corner lot with a fenced backyard and a well for watering. Inside, you’ll find wood floors, an extra-large living room with abundant natural light, and a spacious kitchen with ample counter space and a marble backsplash. The dining room opens to a screened porch and a grilling deck with new Trex decking. Recent updates include a new heat pump (2020) and fresh interior paint. The property is conveniently located just 5 minutes from Spring Lake, offering swimming, fishing, and recreational activities, along with a public boat launch and golf course. Enjoy the beautifully landscaped yard with seasonal blooms, and benefit from being centrally located between Wilmington, NC, and Myrtle Beach, SC, with no HOA. Call Shea Williams, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 461-6789.
612-B W. BROWN STREET | 2 BED | 2 BATH | $435,000. Premium location! This immaculate, furnished condo is located in the quiet and peaceful neighborhood of The Village at Southport. This unit has an open floor plan with a sizable kitchen, dining area, living room, and an open deck that overlooks the community pool. The two bedrooms each have adjoining bathrooms and there is a separate laundry area. Assigned parking that can accommodate 2 cars can be found on the ground level along with a private storage room, and a central elevator. All exterior landscaping/maintenance is handled by the HOA. The location offers easy access to Morning Star Marina, and downtown for shopping, galleries, museums, restaurants, and enjoying the Cape Fear River views. Don’t miss out as these condos don’t come on the market often!
Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-4045.
752 INDIGO VILLAGE COURT B-2 | 2 BED | 2.5 BATH | $349,900 dated, low maintenance, unit leaves nothing to be desired. Recent renovations include new flooring upstairs, new refrigerator, quartz countertops, tiled backsplash, paint, light fix tures, tiled master bath shower, and updated vanities in both upstairs bathrooms, plus an updated powder room. The quaint lifestyle of Historic Southport is within your reach with this affordably priced property. Not only does Indigo Plantation have a marina, but there is also tennis, walking trails, and a saltwater swimming pool along with a clubhouse. Imagine living here year-round or using this property as your weekend retreat! Call Verilyn McKee, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-0527.
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