May 2024 Southport Magazine

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I sit here to write this, it looks like we are at the tail end of Spring. All sorts of new life has sprung up and older things seem to have a new vibrance to them as well. This was a great Spring for our local businesses, judging by the new growth growing in that little world. This month we have three stories about new businesses (like the Carolina Kite House) or businesses given new life by new owners or tenants (Southport Cheese Shoppe and Southport Village Shoppes). Talking to these small business people, whether they are first time entrepreneurs or seasoned small, business owners, we got caught up in their sense of excitement and hope. They are opening up just as our community readies itself for the influx of summer guests so I am certain their hopes will be fulfilled. But don’t leave it to the visitors — remember to stop in and support these new businesses yourself — you’ll be so glad you did!

STAFF

11th

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

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

Historic Shopping

Check Out Olde Southport Village Shoppes

STORY AND PHOTOS BY PATRICIA LANGER

Troy Knight, the well-known founding pastor of Generations Church in Southport, is also the owner of the Southport Smoke House. Pastor Troy, who professes a passion for smoked meats, opened the barbecue restaurant about 10 years ago, and it quickly became a favorite amongst locals and tourists. As the business grew, Troy hired pit masters and managers to run the daily operations, eventually expanding with locations in Leland and Monkey Junction. For many years, Troy leased the restaurant building from property owner Phil Hemphill. In 2023 Troy purchased the property, which came with a bonus — a collection of quaint retail stores located directly behind the restaurant. The popular pastor and successful restaurateur is now also the owner of The Olde Southport Village Shoppes.

A Village History:

The Olde Southport Village Shoppes, located at 1102 N. Howe St. behind The Southport Smokehouse, is an eclectic collection of colorful cottages that offers shoppers everything from coffee and cookies to clothing, decor and gift boutiques. There’s even a hair salon, a massage parlor, and a photography studio in this little village. The shops are laid out on either side of a brick walkway and connected by covered wood-

en porches, so shoppers can easily stroll from one shop to the next.

The Village was the brainchild of the original property owner, Phil Hemphill, who salvaged and transported most of the buildings from locations all over Southport and its neighboring towns. The retail shops are great, but the buildings themselves are full of fascinating history.

Almost all of the cottages in the Village were relocated to the current site by Phil back in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Each long-neglected structure was lovingly restored and given a new lease on life in this small village of retail shops.

years, it also served as a bar, a pool room and a church. The building had been empty for 8 years and in a terrible state of disrepair when Phil bought it. After a lot of hard work, Phil reopened the place as the “Olde Southport Village Barbeque” and ran it successfully for four years. He built a stage behind the restaurant for live music on Friday nights, with an old live oak tree incorporated in the roof structure adding to the charm of the place. Eventually Phil sold the restaurant, at which point he converted the music stage into a shop – tree and all!

Phil purchased the Howe Street property in 1996 with a vision. The original restaurant building was known as The Pines, a popular burger joint and hangout for soldiers from Sunny Point in the 1940s. Over the

The only other structure original to the location was a small garage, which Phil converted into a second retail shop by adding a new tin roof, a porch, and a bathroom. The original wood floor was preserved, and the building was moved to the back of the property as Phil began building his dream village.

A few years later, Phil learned of a small house on the corner of Leonard and Atlantic Streets that was ready for demolition. It was known as a “shotgun house,” with all the doors lined up so you could shoot a shotgun in the front door and out the back door without hitting anything else! Phil had the shotgun house transferred to his village, where he remodeled it, once again adding a tin roof and porch.

Pretty soon, folks around town started telling Phil about other small houses that

were in need of some TLC. Over the next few years, several “rescues” were brought to the Village. Since every village needs a church, Phil found an answer to his prayers with a small building owned by Dosher Hospital. He added cedar siding salvaged from an old downtown Southport property, constructed a vestibule and added a steeple. The windows Phil placed in his chapel were salvaged from the Methodist Church on Lord Street. The floor and roof of the pink chapel are original as well.

The General Store in the Olde Southport Village is situated in a building that was transported from Oak Island. Outside the building, there is a working water wheel that Phil built himself with wood from a 150-year-old cypress tree. Inside, the store is as rustic as it appears, with a wood burning stove for heat and a storage room door with a crescent moon window that came from an old outhouse.

Phil installed a brick walkway in the Village, utilizing bricks salvaged from the old Dosher Hospital and the now-demolished city pump station. Over the years, people donated other bricks from all over the world. There is a brick from Africa with straw in it and a brick from the oldest house in Bathe, NC, built in the early 1700s.

In a neat coincidence, the cottage that houses the Village coffee shop was originally the police station on Long Beach

(now Oak Island), where the grandfather of current owner Troy Knight’s wife served as police chief.

THE VILLAGE UNDERGOES A FACELIFT

The Village has undergone a facelift in recent months, with interior renovations and a fresh coat of paint giving new life to several of the historic buildings. But new owner Troy Knight has no intention of changing the ways things operate in The Village Shoppes. Troy says the shop owners are great tenants and he is happy to let them run things as they see fit.

The shop owners are part of an association that allows them to make mutually beneficial decisions regarding things like advertising, social media posts, events in the common areas, and hours of operation. With several new retail tenants, the Village aims to position itself as Southport’s trendiest shopping district.

You’ll find an Artisan Market at the Olde Village Shoppes from 10 am to 4 pm on the first Saturday of every month, March through December, with local craft vendors

and artists alongside live music and food vendors. New in 2024, The Olde Southport Village Shoppes will host a farmers market on Wednesdays from 9-1, May through August.

NEW NEIGHBORS IN THE HOOD

SOUTHPORT COOKIES, featured in the April issue of Southport Magazine, sells vegan and gluten-free cookies. Owner Joelle Ingram opened shop in early 2024, after testing the waters with a home-based business for about a year. Do not let the Vegan nomenclature fool you – you would never know these cookies are made with all plant-based

ingredients, but you will know they are delicious! Southport Cookies can be found at Southport restaurants Café Koa and Fizzy Janes as well.

THE VILLAGE GENERAL STORE certain-

ly has the look and feel of a bygone era, but new owners Greg and Amanda Feltz have plans to bring in some fresh ideas, as in fresh pasta! Look for Greg’s own line of pasta products, including gluten free pasta, this summer, alongside the store’s popular jarred sauces, jams and jellies, and honey from Bees by the Beach in Bolivia.

Greg, a professional chef by trade who worked at Ports of Call and Castucchis, found the late nights and high stress restaurant environment tough to maintain with two young kids. The Feltz’s purchased The General Store in December 2023 and now enjoy a great work-life balance. These days Greg loves the fact that he can not only pick up the kids after school, but he gets to bring his two unbelievably cute (and fluffy!) dogs, Butter and Peaches, to work every day.

“It’s one of the perks of ownership, and they attract a lot of customers when we sit out on the porch.”

MOODY BEAN

Community

Tori Howard opened this cozy little coffee shop in April. After working at the Frying Pan restaurant in Southport for 11 years, she wanted a change.

“I was ready to do something on my own.” Tori said. “And I like girl power! I’m proud to be a female business owner. I tried to reflect that in the décor. And I made sure the shop was kid friendly.”

Tori’s daughters — 4-year-old Ryann and almost 6-year-old Blake — are homeschooled and hang out with Mom during the day. Pint-sized couches and chalk boards in the corner give kids a fun distraction without detracting from the hip coffee shop vibe. The Moody Bean has a few small sales displays with earthy-crunchy artisan jewelry and mini succulents for sale.

Moody Bean has a great selection of hot and cold drinks. Tori brews five different beans, roasted by Luna Café in Wilmington, and offers three types of pre-packaged coffee. The menu offers something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a basic cup of Joe, a latte, a wellness drink, a frozen fruit drink, or a funky-flavored specialty

drink.

“The most popular drinks right now are the coconut cream cold brew and the cookie butter lattes – they’re so good!”

(Note – I was in heaven as I sipped my Mina’s Monkey Bread latte!)

SOUTHPORT SASS

Taylor Cooper opened her “happy place,” a women’s clothing boutique, in February 2024. Taylor, a former paralegal, says she always had an eye for fashion.

“I loved to dress up for work!”

After fantasizing about owning her own shop for years, Taylor tested the waters with an online clothing business in 2023. Success came quickly, giving her the confidence to open a brick-and-mortar location after just one year.

Southport Sass is bright, colorful, and chic, and so are the clothes! The store carries casual yet stylish apparel for teens through mature women. Taylor does the buying herself and, I have to say, her taste is terrific! After testing a lot of vendors, Taylor now has trusted sources whose quality meets her demands.

“I think clothes should be pretty, but also comfortable to wear.”

As a South Carolina girl, Taylor brings a distinctly Southern charm to her Southport boutique.

Taylor and her fiancé, self-proclaimed diehard fans of the TV series “Revenge,” made their first trip to Southport in 2016 to see the towns where the show was filmed. They fell in love with the area and moved here permanently in 2022. Now married with a 4-year-old son, Taylor loves her new home and her new career as a boutique owner in the Old Southport Village Shoppes.

HIVE SWEET HOME

Kim Sirkin, a lifelong local, opened this sweet little boutique in March of 2023. Hive maintains a retail spot at Crossroads in Oak

Island that does well, but Kim needed more space for inventory storage and displays, so she opened a second location in The Olde Southport Village Shoppes.

According to Kim’s super-supportive, techie husband Zach, who mans the shop when she is busy with her other business as a wedding planner, Kim loves the interaction with customers that her own shop provides.

“Kim really wanted to have face-to-face time with customers. That’s the fun part for her.”

Hive carries home décor and gift items (think great hostess gifts), beaded handbags and accessories, children’s clothing, toys and trinkets. There is also a small selection of clothing for women. Everything in this shop is cute and colorful!

NEEDFUL THINGS

Needful Things relocated to the pink chapel in February of 2024, having previously been in the building next door. I have nothing but praise for this shop — it’s got an entire room full of books for sale! A su-

per cozy vibe is achieved with couches, a fireplace, twinkly lights, plants, and painted bookshelves. Needful Things features a great collection of books by local authors, as well as a small selection of new and gently used bestsellers. The store’s “Blind Date with a Book” display is highly popular with customers. These books are wrapped in brown paper, with nothing but the genre revealed. Needful Things also sells fun bookmarks, pretty journals, gifts for the gardener, bee-based products, crystals, home décor, and jewelry.

Owner Amanda Lake, who serves as the current president of the Village association, worked as a stay-at homemom before she opened her retail shop. With three children, ages 11, 15, and 18, Amanda decided the timing was right to pursue her own interests.

“I always thought it would be neat to own a gift shop.”

But how, I asked Amanda, did she figure out how to do it?

“I learned as I went, trying out a lot of different products to figure out what sells.

My husband is an electrician who owns his own business (Thomas and Sons Electric in Southport), so he’s helped me a lot when it comes to the business side of things. And the other shop owners have been great too.”

Amanda’s family has also been supportive of her venture. Daughter Emilee, who makes bees wax lip balm, can often be found helping out in the shop after school.

To learn more about the origins of The Olde Southport Village Shoppes, look for the historical signs posted at the entrance to each building. Hours vary at some of the stores, so check out The Olde Southport Village Shoppes on Facebook before you head over.

Sheriff Brian Chism

Local Beach Kid Grows Up To Serve

STORY BY LISA STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Editor’s Note: Whether they moved here from other parts of North Carolina or out-ofstate, many people in our beach towns are from somewhere else. As time moves on, however, we’re seeing more “beach kids” who have grown to adults and stayed right in here in Brunswick County, where they found something they love doing in the place they loved growing up. Sheriff Brian Chism is one of them, having grown up on Oak Island, now living off the island but with a career that allows him to support all of Brunswick County. We were glad for the chance to sit down with the Sheriff and learn more about his first year in office and his future plans.

Just about one year ago, Sheriff Brian Chism took his first oath of office as Sheriff, and though he has worked in law enforcement there for 20 years, his main goal remains the same — helping people in any way possible. The Sheriff’s position is elected every four years, but Sheriff Chism was appointed when former Sheriff John Ingram retired. The Sheriff credits his staff for helping to make his transition to his new position an easy one. “I was kind of concerned about the transition at first, because you don’t know what it’s like until you sit in the seat, but I have a great command staff here and got nothing but support,” he said. “I am very humbled and grateful for that. And the community welcomed me as well. I am just blessed.”

Sheriff Chism also counts family and living on the coast among his blessings. As a child growing up on Oak Island, Sheriff Chism said the children played outside, rode their bikes all over the west end of the island and when the sun was setting or Dad whistled, we knew it was time to go home.

“My wife is from here, born and raised. Oak Island is home for me, and every time I drive over the bridge, the stress just kind of goes away. I love going to see my Mom and Dad on Oak Island,” he said.

He and his wife Serena have been married since 2005, though they’ve been together 26 years.

“My dad coached her brother in soccer. She hated me in high school,” he said with a smile.

Sheriff Chism didn’t start out his working life knowing he wanted to be in law enforcement. As a teenager, he worked at the former Country Kitchen restaurant on Oak Island bussing tables and then cooking. He worked in started working with John’s Plumbing and stayed in that job for several years.

“I did plumbing for seven

people.”

He asked a deputy sheriff here in Brunswick County where to start, and was told to look into the Basic Law Enforcement Training program at Brunswick Community College.

“When I did that, everything just fell into

place like it was meant to be,” he said. “I never looked back.”

The Sheriff said every aspect of the Sheriff’s Office helps people in some way, shape, or form. The administrative staff helps people who come to the office look-

years, so I know what real work is,” he said. “I realized that was not what I wanted for a career.”

He recalled visiting a cousin who had served as a Marine and was working with Prince William County police in Virginia.

“I did some ride alongside with him and I thought I could see myself doing this. I got more passionate about service. I wish I had gone into the military when I was 18 years old, but I didn’t want anyone telling me what to do. That passion for helping people, what better way to do that than become a law enforcement officer,” he said. “I know that sounds cliche, but that’s literally why I got into law enforcement — to help

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Community

ing for help with reports, concealed carry permits, fingerprinting for jobs, etc. Deputies on patrol answer 911 calls and detention center employees work to help with rehabilitation. Telecommunicators answer the phone and send help to people asking for it.

“Every aspect is about helping and serving the community of Brunswick County,” he said.

Like many deputies, Sheriff Chism started out on patrol. After seven months, he became a K-9 officer. He said he “worked his tail off” those first seven months.

He recalled knowing he wanted to do something with narcotics, but also wanted to work with dogs. “So for seven months, I was at training day when I was off, on my own time, learning about the dogs and what they did, and even working with some of the dogs, being the bite dummy in the suit. I was that guy getting beat up by the dogs,” he said. When a position came open, he was the one to get it, and he worked in that unit for 10 years. He said that their main focus was to push people off the street

corners into houses, and the narcotics team took over from there. He had taken over the K-9 unit, and was training K-9 officers when a new position was created for a 1st Sergeant on the road for each of the four shifts, and he filled one of those slots. He was promoted to lieutenant and supervised all of

patrol, then took over the civil and warrants division as well, then K-9s and School Resource Officers.

“Throughout my 20year career, I have supervised or been in every division of the Sheriff’s Office,” he said.

Now the Sheriff runs a

department with 348 employees, sworn and non-sworn, with a volunteer corps assisting.

When Sheriff Chism started as a deputy, he said he planned to stick with one agency, to start and finish at the same department. He said that when Sheriff Ingram and Rep.

Charlie Miller, then the Office’s Chief Deputy, approached him about being Sheriff, it hadn’t been something he sought and that he always wants his work to speak for itself. Now as Sheriff, he said the job comes with its share of stress, but that he really is enjoying it.

“You don’t know what’s going to happen or when it’s going to happen, but something is going to happen every day,” he said. He said other than that uncertainty, and dealing with personnel issues, being Sheriff is the best job because he gets to meet new people and help them.

“One goal that I have for myself is I don’t want to be that person who only comes a certain time in the year or every four years,” he said. “What I am doing now is something I want to maintain — being out in public, going to events, speaking to people, and going into communities.”

Sheriff Chism spoke highly of community support as well, saying that in April, the Office received permission to install a memorial for fallen officers, which is being

funded through donations.

And while the community he serves continues to grow, Sheriff Chism said his intention is to work with the county commission-

ers in assessing any resource or personnel needs to accommodate that growth. “It is imperative to public safety that we stay on top of the growth in our county, which can

be very challenging given how fast we are growing. But with the hard work and dedication of our staff and the support of our county commissioners as well as our community, I am very optimistic about the future,” he said.

Sheriff Chism speaks highly of community support the Office sees, saying that in April, they received permission to install a memo-

rial for fallen officers, which is being funded through donations.

“The perception is that everyone hates law enforcement, but in Brunswick County, I think the citizens love us. I feel like we have a good relationship with our citizens, and that’s because we’re out there” he said.

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Carolina Kite House

It’s A Perfect Time To Go Fly A Kite

STORY AND BY PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

Our first thought when we heard that a kite shop was opening in our community was “Well, it’s about time!” Of course kites have been available in the local beach shops in a limited way, but it always struck us as odd that no one had opened a dedicated kite store. That all changed last year with the opening of Carolina Kite House in the Southport Commons shopping center. I was excited to visit when they opened and was expecting to be impressed by a bunch of colorful kites — and they are impressive — but what immediately caught my attention was a little balsa wood plane powered by a rubber band just like I used to trek to the local mall’s hobby store with my best friend to buy. Memories flooded back in the absolute best way. Carolina Kite shop is indeed a kite store, and they carry wind socks and flags as well, but it’s also well stocked with all the best sort of toys, the sort of toys that capture and nurture imagination and activity and getting outside in the sun and the breeze. It’s our newest local treasure and if you’ve not stopped in yet, you really should.

We spoke to Jamie Sorber, who, along with his wife Jenny, owns and operates the Carolina Kite House.

Can you describe what Carolina Kite House carries? It’s so much more than kites.

think about kite flying, it brings beauty, fun, and entertainment. When we think of sailing it brings adventure, ability, and grace. We try to find the good in everything we are given.  What moved you to open a kite shop? Have you been a kite enthusiast?

Absolutely!! You are correct. We have much more than just kites. In fact we carry many “wind powered” items to include windsocks, wind chimes, spinners, children’s toys, garden and house flags.

When did Carolina Kite House open?

We opened our doors in November of 2023.

Can you tell us  a little about your backgrounds?

Jenny and I have adventured our entire lives. We have visited the world with our children. We share six children who are now thriving as adults in three different states.  Once our children became adults we looked for something to fill our time. We took some sailing lessons and have enjoyed that ever since. We love the power of the wind. The wind has such power. When we

When deciding how we could enhance an already amazing area of the country, we looked to our children. One of the toughest things to do as a parent of six is to be sure everyone knows where Mom and Dad are.

When our children were young (our youngest Jake who also assists in the day-today operations of the store was just 6 months old) we had taken a beach vacation. Our older children tended to sway with the sea waves and find themselves looking for us on shore. In order to ensure they knew where we were on the beach, we bought a Jolly Roger kite and attached it to our chairs. Our children were instructed to stay in front of the Jolly Roger to make it easier for us to keep track of their location and vice versa. To this day we still fly that kite each time we are at the beach. It was a great memory that we hope others will have the same chance to make.

Walking through your store brings me back to my childhood. How did you find all those little “throw back” toys? Those toys are fun aren’t they? We looked long and hard to be sure we had a great selection! The juggling balls take me back to my time in school where an English teacher challenged us to purchase a book from the book fair the school was hosting. I found a book called “How to Juggle” that included juggling balls and accepted the challenge. Needless to say, the English teacher was not amused.

What is your favorite item you sell?  Of course the kites are our personal favorite. It is such a wonderful way to spend time on the beach. Why not take advantage of the warm breeze and paint the sky with color! Jenny stresses that she loves flying the microkites as she just opens the package, takes out the kite and it basical-

ly flies on its own.

What things have been the most popular?

It’s hard to say one particular item is more popular than another. Of course, in a kite store they are the number one seller. Diamond kites, Delta kites, stunt kites, character kites — you name it, they are all popular. Folks love to see the colors in the air!

What’s been the most surprising thing since you opened the store?

The amount of support in the local community! It is amazing to see so many people gather and support local businesses in this area!

We live in a great place for kites. Any advice for novice kite flyers?  I couldn’t agree with you more. With such access to the coastline we have miles of beach to fly kites. We welcome beginner flyers all the time. If you have ever wanted to fly a kite and thought it might be a lot...you’d be surprised how simple it really is to fly single line kites. It’s really more about selecting a kite that represents your personality and colorful

you feel. Any plans for the future?

We are always planning for the future! Locally, we are looking for anyone interested in meeting as a group to fly kites. The group will be called the Cape Fear Kite Flyers and is just a way for kite flyers to connect with each other. The group will meet once or twice a month at some of our local beaches. No experience necessary and we are willing to provide instruction to any beginners. If anyone is interested they can contact us at the store or stop in and ask!

Carolina Kite House 5021 Southport Crossing Way,Unit 314 Southport (910) 477-8033

Follow Carolina Kite House on Facebook!

Business Feature

Southport Cheese Shoppe

Local Favorite Under New Ownership

STORY BY MCKENZIE BARFIELD PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

I

f you’ve never visited The Cheese Shoppe on Howe Street, you may be depriving yourself. The shop offers the best cheese in town and is stocked with endless amounts of snacks and goodies alike, perfect for entertaining guests or just to have on hand at home. They also have a variety of different sandwiches and paninis with some of the best bread you’ll ever get your hands around. There is something new on the horizon for the shop though, as the current owners say goodbye and pass it along to someone new to continue their legacy.

When Lisa and Eric Stettner moved to Southport from New Jersey back in 2013, opening a cheese shoppe wasn’t their original plan, but according to Lisa, they noticed there wasn’t anything like it in town, so they decided to go for it. It was quite the opposite of what they were doing previously. Eric owned a car shop and Lisa did the billing. I’m glad they took a chance because going into the shop is one of my favorite things to do. I’m always greeted with a smile by Lisa, Eric, and anyone that works there. It’s one of those places that makes you feel like you’re family and if they aren’t too busy with orders, it’s easy to sit and chat for a while. With only a few more days until the sale of the shop is final, I asked Lisa what she would miss the most about it. “I love when

we get new cheese in,” she said. “We’ll all sample it and see how different everyone’s taste is.” That sounds like a dream to me. I’m still holding out hope that they’ll let me know sometime when new cheese arrives, and I can be a taste tester. I had to know what Lisa’s favorite kind of cheese is. Her answer was Beechers Flagship Reserve. “It’s wrapped in cheese cloth and rubbed with butter, it’s made in the USA, and has a great aroma of forest, mushrooms, and fresh butter,” she said. I probably should have eaten before sitting down to write this. Lisa knows her cheese.

New owner Nichole Harding and Lisa both told me that it was crazy how the two found each other. Lisa wasn’t going to accept just any offer, but she told me she had prayed for Nichole, and when she came along, she knew it was the right decision to sell the business to her. Oddly enough, this wasn’t the first business purchase that Nichole made from the Stettner family. She used to own her own shop in the Southport Village Shoppes called Farm Fresh and Fancy that she bought from Lisa and Eric’s daughter. That shop was far different from the cheese shoppe.

gan, all relocated to Southport from Decatur, Illinois in 2010. Brandon works for ADM and Morgan works for the Brunswick County Jail as a detention officer. Nichole mentioned that you might see Brandon at the shop on Saturdays when he comes in to help!

There are so many cheese shop regulars, and one thing Nichole told me was that from the beginning of this transition her and Brandon knew they didn’t want to change a thing about it. “The Cheese

Nichole, her husband Brandon, and their daughter Mor-

Shoppe is so unique and there isn’t a thing like it in Southport, so why would we want to change anything?” she asked. “Lisa and Eric put in all the hard work and now we just have to continue the business as usual and add a few things as we go over the years.” One thing Nichole wants to do is add something that shows her personality, but she just isn’t sure what that is yet. I asked Nichole what the most rewarding part of this process has been so far, and she said that it has been meeting all the customers and having them accept her as the new business owner. It’s easy to tell what a great relationship Nichole has with Lisa and Eric. Nichole mentioned another rewarding thing is hearing how Lisa and Eric are proud of her. Since Nichole has been in the shop, I’ve gone in numerous times, and I always love seeing her. It’s easy to see that she’s so happy being there and hearing them talk about this tran-

New owner of the Southport Cheese Shoppe Nicole Harding

sition was so heartwarming I almost teared up. Actually, I think we all teared up; I’ll admit it.

I asked Lisa what most excited her about Nichole taking over. “She loves people,” she said. “She loves to create cheeseboards. She just loves everything about it. She’s enthusiastic and wants to learn and it definitely helps that she’s 20 years younger than me and has energy.” I also asked Nichole what she has learned from Lisa and Eric since the transition and her initial response was, “too many to list, lol. From the first day I walked in to start working, Lisa made me feel like I could do it all,” she said. “I started out just running the register and learning the breads.” She told me the following week that she started making sandwiches with Eric. “I was terrified as he is an excellent sandwich maker,” she said. I’ve had a few of Nichole’s sandwiches since she started working and I can tell you firsthand that they are delicious.

I couldn’t leave without finding out Nichole’s favorite cheese, too. Blueberry Stiliton and Prairie Breeze Cheddar are her favorites. It goes without saying that Lisa and Eric will be truly missed, but through talking to them, it’s easy to see that Nichole is the perfect person to take over and I can’t wait for many more Nichole sandwiches. If you have never been to the cheese shoppe, you should run there! Pop on over and meet Nichole and you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about. Happy cheesing.

COMMUNITY

The Old Man

STORY BY MIKE ROYAL

No one noticed the old man sitting there at the table overlooking the Old Yacht Basin. He was watching a most golden sun as it set to the west. Yet, there he was.

Somehow he had appeared. The hostess hurried the wait staff as they scrambled to his table to take the old man’s order. He was a thin man wearing what used to be his Sunday best, his frame much thinner now, as evident by the way his clothes hung around him. The old shirt collar was frayed and the elbows of his sport coat were worn. What was once nice dress shoes now presented with leather cracked and scuffed. Creases crisscrossed the tops of those old shoes much like the lines in the old man’s face. His silver hair swept out and up in tuffs caught by the salty breezes of days gone by.

He was reflective…in his mind, he played his own story…a golden one like the shimmering evening waters, seen by this young boy looking out through the eyes of an old man. How many tides had come and gone? Why surely, it was just this morning, a mere few hours ago, he had been swimming and diving in those very waters with all his young friends. Yes, he was sure, it was just this morning he had done all those things.

The waitress leaned in “SIR? SIR?....May I take your order?” “Order?” The old man asked trying to clear his head. “Yes, sir, would you like to order some food or perhaps…something to drink?” “Miss, may I inquire as to the time you expect the boats to be docking?”

The young waitress was confused for a moment and as she followed his gaze out over the waters and the empty boat slips, she realized what he meant. “Oh, there are

no boats, at least none that dock here permanently anymore.”

The old man sat up a little and said, “Oh yes miss, you must be mistaken. All along here (and he swept his hand up and down the bulkhead) a fleet of shrimp boats dock. Why, I can name most of them…over there (he pointed) is where the Leila H. and the Linda Rose dock, and back over here (as he gestured over his shoulder) is the Penny, Cindy and Lindy!”

“No sir, no boats like that haven’t docked here in years….well before I was even born.” The old man looked up, shocked, his eyes twinkled in the evening light. Suddenly he realized he had drifted off into another daydream, a wonderful place where he spent most of his time these days. “Oh, yes thank you miss. I’ll take an iced tea, sweet, please…” “Coming right up, sir!” “Oh, and miss? Tell Dallas and Leila I said hello?” “Ahhhh okayyyyyyyy, sir.”

The tea tasted good but Quacks and Louis’ could never be beat…refreshing… so refreshing…southern style all the way he thought. As he let the old south nectar linger on his tongue, he decided to sit and enjoy HIS sunset and wait for the boats to come in…back home, again. If you’re down at the docks sometime…pull up an old shrimp box, sit a spell, carve your name in the dock, enjoy the sunset and listen to a little Otis Redding. See you there.

The Old Man was here…

FISHING REPORT

May Fishing Report

As Water Warms, Fishing Heats Up

BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK

Spring has sprung, but as is typical for our area, summer is already starting to muscle its way in, with temperatures outside having reached the mid to upper 80s as early as mid-April. The warmer weather and water temperatures have triggered increased activity among fish, which is why May, along with September and October, is a favorite among anglers in our area offering a wide range of opportunities inshore and offshore.

INSHORE

Inshore fishing during this time can be particularly rewarding as various species become more active in shallower waters. From snook and redfish to trout and flounder, there’s often a plethora of species to target, providing anglers with plenty of action and excitement. With water temperatures now in the high 60s to low 70s, we’ve started seeing the first flounder showing up in good numbers. Schools of small (peanut) pogies can be found in places like the marinas, wildlife boat ramp area and in the waterway. A quick cast net should catch you all the bait you need to catch those flounder. For those wanting to use artificial bait, a variety of soft plastics rigged on a jib head will net results. Flounder are typically found along the docks on the Southport waterfront as well as holding on points and ledges along area creeks.

If it’s red drum you’re after, fresh shrimp on a Carolina Rig will produce results. This is also the time of year to catch them on topwater plugs first thing in the morning or late in the evening. Main creek channels that dump into the waterway or river are a good place to start, especially on a falling tide as those red drum will be stacked waiting on bait to get washed towards them.

NEARSHORE

Nearshore action is hot and heavy with Spanish mackerel being the predominant catch. We had an exceptional April with an amazing showing of Atlantic bonito. This was one of the better years in recent memory for these delicious little tuna-like catches. If you are looking to catch Spanish mackerel, my recommendation is trolling a #1 or #2 planer with 30-feet of 20-lb fluorocarbon leader. Look for birds working in 10- to 30feet and you will find the fish. The first schools of menhaden (pogies) will show up on the beach in mid-May and with them will come the first beach run of king mackerel. Slow trolling live pogies at 1-3 mph near areas like Yaupon Reef and Ocean Crest Pier will provide some very

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 910-620-9919

exciting fishing. This first beach run of King Mackerel generally lasts for a week or two then the fish push out to 55-75 feet where they will remain for the season.

OFFSHORE

If you are itching to get offshore a few miles, check areas like the Shark Hole, Horseshoe, Jungle and Christinas Ledge for the king mackerel. May 1 also ushers in grouper season. Though we have a bit of a short season for gag groupers this year,

there are several other varieties that you can target all season. For the grouper, a great place to look is on ledges, wrecks and rock piles in 90-110 feet. Start by catching some fresh pinfish on a Sabiki rig at the nearshore reefs and putting them down on a grouper rig to yield some exciting action. In those depths, using a 2-hook bottom rig with squid will catch lots of black sea bass and beeliners (vermillion snapper) and as soon as the rig hits the bottom, reel it up 5-8 cranks since they generally suspend above the underwater structures. In the Gulf Stream, the warm waters and favorable weather conditions make it an ideal time to venture out for an unforgettable experience. The Gulf Stream is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and abundance of game fish. The waters are often teeming with activity as various species migrate or gather for spawning. Anglers can expect to encounter prized catches such as mahi-mahi, tuna, marlin, sailfish, and many others. Trolling ballyhoo on skirted rigs will yield bites from all of these fish. Early in the month, I still use wire leaders as there are still quite a few wahoo’s around but as the month progresses, I will generally switch over to fluorocarbon leaders throughout my spread. Blue/white, green/ yellow, black/blue, pink/white are some of the colors of the lures I’ve found to be most productive. Toward the end of the month, the mahis will spread out inshore of the Gulf Stream to 100-120 feet. When targeting mahi, don’t be afraid to stop inshore of the normal Gulf Stream spots. Often, I see folks running past the fish in their effort to reach a specific waypoint they are determined to fish. When running offshore, if you see a lot of flying fish, weed lines, and clear blue water, try stopping to fish for a bit and you may find exactly what you are looking for – even 5-10 miles inshore of the “break.” Some of my best days of fishing have been in 120 feet of water.

Finally, if you’re seeking the ultimate fight, push offshore of the break to 100 fathoms (600-ft) and chase blue marlin. This is about the only time of year these fish are around in big enough numbers to catch. Although a few blue marlin do get caught throughout the summer, May is absolutely the best time for this awesome battle. Trolling plugs with squid chain teasers and dredges out in the deep water will entice these sea monsters to bite and give you the experience of a lifetime. So there you have it – I look forward to seeing you on the water and back at the docks with a boatload of fish to show off!

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May Dosher Events

Tour The Hospital And Eat At A Cookout

CONTRIBUTED

Dosher Memorial Hospital’s third annual Community Cookout is set for Saturday, June 8, at the front entrance of Dosher Hospital, 924 N. Howe St., from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm. All are welcome to join Dosher staff, Trustees, Volunteers, and hospital leaders for the celebration, which will include a cookout lunch, dessert, and music.

Dosher President and CEO Lynda Stanley said, “The cookout has become a much-anticipated event in our community. It celebrates the birthday of Dosher Hospital, which opened its doors 94 years ago on June 2nd, and is a time to honor patients and staff, as well as the past, present, and future of local healthcare. We look forward to enjoying this happy occasion with all who support our hospital.”

There is no charge to attend this event. Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated. Go to Dosher.org/birthday, or

call 910-457-3900 for more information or to RSVP.

Hospital Tour

Dosher Memorial Hospital also invites community members to take an in-person tour of the hospital on Wednesday, May 8 at 1 pm. Local residents will get an up-close look at the services offered and have an opportunity to have questions about the hospital answered by knowledgeable professionals. The tour group will meet in the front lobby

of the main hospital building at 924 N. Howe St., Southport. Space is limited, therefore registration is requested. Call

910-457-3900, or email marketing@ dosher.org to reserve your spot.

The Kitchen Man

The American Dream Come True

STORY AND PHOTOS

BY JEFFREY STITES

I

t sounds almost too good to be true — teenaged immigrant moves to America, works hard from day one, finds love, raises a family, starts and grows a hugely successful small business and then thanks the community for his success by giving back. But for Chris Dabideen, aka The Kitchen Man, the story is true.

“I moved to New York City August 2001,” Chris said. “I wanted to go to college, I wanted to do something like railroad engineering. So my momma came, found me a place to live, and she went home and I was supposed to work my way through college.”

He was just 17 years old and full of the American Dream.

“I got a job mixing concrete, then September 11 happened and everything just stopped,” he said. “Now I’m in a new place, I ain’t got no money and I gotta figure out

what I’m gonna do.”

What he did was get to work, first in a grocery store, then for that store’s supplier. “Then across the street was an auto body shop and I got a job there detailing cars, and then that guy had a granite business and he was looking for employees, and he gave me an opportunity. He asked if I wanted to work in the granite business and my first word were ‘What is that?’” he said.

“I said ‘Sure, I’ll give it a try,’ and that was 2008 and ever since then I’ve been in the granite business,” Chris said. “Granite was very difficult until I got into the kitchen business. The design part of it was really cool.”

ple would talk to you. I went into a store to get gas and snacks and ended up having a 15-minute conversation about nothing. That’s just the way that people were and I really enjoyed that. That’s the way things are in Trinidad.”

The Southern way of communicating was very familiar. “In Trinidad when you give directions you use landmarks. It was the same thing here. Nobody says street names, at least not the original people,” Chris said. “A lot of the words people

Chris lived in Queens and Long Island, but never quite felt at home in New York.

“In about 2015 I got tired of living in New York, because I grew up in the Caribbean, everything was laid back, not a whole lot of traffic,” he said.

“So in 2015, when I had my second kid, I was like ‘Man, I don’t want to live here no more. I just don’t want this busy pace of life.’

“My friend Henry and I got in a truck and drove the entire coast from New York to Florida. We looked at all of the towns and stuff and then out of the blue, when I got here it was what I wanted.”

Chris said besides being halfway between family in New York and Florida, our community reminded him of home.

“The people were different, the place was different, it was sunny, it was HAPPY,” he said. “Peo-

use down here are the same, it’s really cool. Like cabinets referred to as cupboards, the faucet is called a spigot, the one in the kitchen is called a tap, so those words resonated a lot, because when you go to New York City you don’t hear that stuff. The Southern feel of it really made it feel like home.”

Chris said he lives in Topsail Beach, which he described as a small, but growing community where you pretty much know everyone.

The Kitchen Man has ridden the wave of growth in the Cape Fear. “The first year I did Kitchen Man I had two employees and we did $250,000 in business. Today we have about 14 W-2 employees and we grossed about four and a half million last year. So in five or six years, it’s tremendously grown.”

The Kitchen Man is based in Winnabow

Chris Dabideen--The Kitchen Man himself

on U.S. 17 but has expanded with three showrooms in Hampstead, Wilmington and Shallotte. Chris said the showrooms save people having to drive too far to see what The Kitchen Man offers.

When you stop into a Kitchen Man showroom, you’ll find material you’re not likely to see elsewhere.

“Last year, what I wanted to do was to bring in material that was very, very unique. You see the same material over and over and there’s nothing wrong with it, but I wanted to give people a chance to see something different,” Chris said.

That difference is directly imported Brazilian granite. “We order direct from the quarry, from the guys who cut the material,” Chris said.

“The reason why I started importing directly from Brazil is that normal suppliers will just bring in what will sell, not things that are distinct,” he explained. “Like I have a couple off slabs out there that will sit there for a couple of months, even a year, then you get that one person who walks in and

Biz Profile

says ‘Holy crap, I absolutely love it!’ but the 300 people before him didn’t see the beauty of it. Everybody’s expression of creativity is different and that’s what granite does, and Brazil is one of the places you can find that— a lot of different colors, a lot of different density. I like to say it’s an expression of yourself.”

Each slab can weigh up to 3,000 pounds, and while they like to make use of as much as they can,

The Kitchen Man puts design first. “One thing we do different here is we don’t skimp on using material,” Chris said. “We try to create patterns, and when you have patterns and veins and stuff, sometimes two thirds of the material gets wasted just to keep the veins going in the right direction.”

The parts of the slab not used for a project can become smaller pieces of another job, like table tops or vanities. The rest is recycled by a company in Wilmington where it’s ground up and used for things like driveways.

Chris can hold forth on any part of his business because he has learned each part himself. “I’ve learned every process in this business then delegated and trained employees, so that it’s easy to talk to them and relate to them when I’m creating ideas,” he said. “It’s easy to have great ideas, but when your carpenter shows up and you can’t relate to him, everything goes haywire. It’s good that I can do all of it. I can speak carpenter to the carpenter.”

Chris said people often ask him if The Kitchen Man is a franchise. “It’s not, it’s family organization.” He said. “It’s my wife and I, and I have three employees and their spouses who work here. When we say it’s a family business, it’s a family business.”

When asked what came as a surprise as a small business owner, Chris laughs and talks about how he and his wife, Amanda, expected things to go.

“My wife’s going to hate me for this, but the whole point of starting a business was we can do three jobs a week and have time to go home and do all the fancy stuff she wants, but when we started the demand for it was so good, people wanted more and

more and more.” Chris said. “We went from my promise of two to three jobs a week and we’d have all the free time in the world to her working at the desk. Because I need some help.

“She enjoys it as much as I do, or at least so she says,” he said. “She’s a better salesman than I will ever be. She’s the one who taught me how to sell granite. Back in the day when I met her, the company we were working for, she was the manager of the company. She used to be my boss. She runs the ship”

Chris and Amanda have four daughters, ages 16, 9, 8 and 4, and making time for family is important.

“We make time for everything,” Chris said. “And it’s the same with the employees when they have kids and stuff, that comes first. We’re never so

busy we say you can’t attend a function for your kids. Family comes first in this place, we’ve always done it that way.”

Chris tries to take care of his community as well as his employees, donating a thousand dollars a month to different local charities. “Giving back is a big thing in my family. You have to show appreciation for those who helped you along the way,” he said.

And every year since 2019, The Kitchen Man has donated turkey dinners for Thanksgiving. Chris puts out a call on social media and in advertisements looking for families in need of help, and everyone who asks gets a turkey dinner. The project has grown to close to a thousand turkeys each year, and takes the entire company to make it happen.

“We shut down work the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and for the next three days that’s all we do,” Chris said. “Delivering 1,000 turkeys is not an easy task.”

Chris said the favorite part of his work is meeting his customers. “I go to every job initially to meet the people and see what they want,” he said. “And I leave an email address so customers can contact me and any time in the process.”

That process sometimes entails explaining that the kitchen his customers fell in love with on HGTV may not work for them in the real world.

“I get to be the dream killer, but I also get to be the person who can transform your imagination into what you want,” he said. “It’s a fun job…when everything goes right.”

This is the biggest machine of its kind in the United States. It cuts the granite pieces without raising any dust.

It’s A Derby Party

South Brunswick Islands Women’s Club

STORY BY LISA STITES

It’s all about the Juleps and Jazz — and watching horses race the Derby, and some good food, fancy dresses and hats, and most importantly, a lot of money raised for local organizations that serve and support our community. It’s the General Federation of Women’s Clubs - South Brunswick Islands Women’s Club’s Juleps and Jazz derby party, and there are all sorts of ways to contribute. This annual Fund“racer” is set for Saturday, May 4, from 4-7:30 pm at The Brunswick Center, 101 Stone Chimney Road SE in Supply.

Club member Cindy Hewett is chairman of this year’s derby party, the ninth such event in person. Like many organizations, the Club held a virtual event during the pandemic years.

Last year’s event was a huge success, with the Club raising almost $65,000 to be awarded to local organizations. The list of groups the South Brunswick Islands Women’s Club supports is a long one, and includes the Food Pantry, the Brunswick Literacy Council, Brunswick Senior Resources Meals on Wheels, scholarship and school programs, and many others. The year, the group hopes to raise even more funds. Hewett said it’s the largest fundraiser the Club does, and that members have “been working like crazy” to bring it all together.

Last year, approximately 300 people attended. “It gives you the opportunity to get together with friends and help out the community,” Hewett said.

Tickets are $75 per person and include heavy hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar with wine, beer, mint juleps and a special Jazzy Juleps, as well as a Bourbon tasting bar. There will also be a silent auction and raffle.

“It’s going to be fun from the time you walk in until the time you leave,” Hewett said. “There will be live jazz, and a $500 raffle. You’ll purchase tickets and put them in the boxes for the horses you want to bet on. We’ll have win, place, and show. Those are really nice prizes.”

Attendees are also encouraged to wear festive spring attire and hats for the occasion, just like the real Derby. There will be awards for the Darling Deb hat and the Dashing Derbster — both determined by audience participation after the entrants do their best hat walks.

“The hats are fun. Those men that come out decked out in their attire can walk the hat walk too,” Hewett said. A third prize category for hats, open to everyone, is for the most creative.

“They come in their derby attire, with their spring frocks on and their hats,” Hewett said. “We’ve got some people that make their hats. We have some people who really love the derby.”

There will also be a live auction, for some larger prizes, such as a week’s stay at the beach or maybe a catered dinner.

The Club has lots of support from local businesses in offering prizes and financial contributions.

“Sponsorships are so important to the event. We’ve had some very generous folks in our community who have supported us every year,” Hewett said.

An online raffle — for bourbon — is also associated with the event. There are two ways to participate. Visit https://app.galabid.com/sbiwc_derbyspirits24/items to purchase $5 raffle tickets for one of five bourbons, or purchase tickets through a Club member for a chance to win 10 bottles of bourbon! Winners will be announced during the event, but winners do not have to be present to win one of these raffles. The online raffle is open through May 3.

And no matter what is going on —the live jazz, silent or live auctions, announcing raffle winners — it all comes to a stop to watch the Derby. The race is live streamed so everyone can cheer on their favorite horse.

“Our goal is that all the fun we’re having, we can put on pause to watch the race,” Hewett said. “We really put a lot of time and energy into putting this together. We want people to have a good time and be eager to come back next year.” View the Facebook event page for a link to purchase tickets: https://www.facebook. com/events/1400056054216186/?active_ tab=discussion

Small Business Fun

Southport-Oak Island Chamber Events

From young entrepeneurs to the businesses that make coastal living easy to fashions to fit nay season, the Southport-Oak ISland Chamber of Ciommerce has somehting in store that is sure to interest anyone, local and visitors alike.

Coastal Home and Lifestyle Showcase

Takingcare of our homes and landscaping, and even ourselves, can be tough in this coastal environment, but thanks to the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce, homeowners can connect with local business owners who specialize in helping us maintain our spaces and a healthy lifestyle.

The fourth annual Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase will be Saturday, May 4 from 10 am to 1 pm at the Middleton Park Pavilion area, 4610 E. Dolphin Drive, Oak Island. This outdoor show will highlight nearly 50 businesses that specialize in home maintenance and repair, outdoor living and supporting a healthy and active lifestyle. There will be live music by NowCat, food by Dutch Girl Dogs, giveaways, and a drawing for a chance to win $200.

New this year is the addition of the Youth Business Fair to the day’s activities. The Youth Business Fair is an opportunity to showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of the next generation of business owners. These bright entrepreneurs will run their booths without adult assistance, ensuring they practice skills necessary for professional and personal growth such as creative and critical thinking, math, and communication skills. To ensure success, the participants were required to attend two workshops organized by the Chamber, led by Jay Schach, Sea Grass Consulting.

The Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase with Youth Business Fair events are open to the public and admission is free. The Town of Oak Island will suspend paid parking in the area adjacent to Middleton Park from 10 am to 1 pm on Saturday, May 4 for area residents and visitors to attend the Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase.  The area adjacent to Middleton Park includes town parking lots and designated parking slips between SE 46th Street East to SE 49th Street.

“The Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase provides an opportunity for residents

Come Support The Youth Business Fair

and second homeowners to connect with many of the area businesses that provide home and lifestyle products and services in a fun and casual setting,” said Karen Sphar, event organizer and executive vice president of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce. “This annual event is one of the ways the Chamber fulfills its mission of creating opportunities for the local business community to connect with potential customers in our area.”

The Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase is an event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and is sponsored by East Coast Moving, Mocean Contracting, Salt Air Heating & Cooling, Southport Magazine, The State Port Pilot and SPT-OKI Magazine. For more information about the showcase please call 910457-6964 or email info@southport-oakisland.com.

The Southport-Oak Island Youth Business Fair inspires children to discover their inner entrepreneur. The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Acton Academy and NCIDEA to bring our area this one-day market which gives children the opportunity to showcase their very own businesses.

The young entrepreneurs have created a product or service, developed the brand, and on Saturday, May 4, they will market and sell it at the Youth Business Fair. The public is encouraged to attend the Fair and “Shop Small” while supporting area youth. It is free to attend but bring your cash to purchase the products.

Participants are 9-20 years of age, and the products and services will vary widely. Past expos’ products included dog treats and accessories, lip gloss, wood art, honey, face painting, cupcakes, jewelry, paintings, apparel, and slime.

These bright entrepreneurs will run the booths without adult assistance ensuring

they practice skills necessary for professional and personal growth such as creative and critical thinking, math and communication skills. To ensure success, the participants were required to attend two workshops led by Jay Schach, Sea Grass Consulting and organized by the Chamber.

This year, the Youth Business Fair will be held in conjunction with the Coastal Home & Lifestyle Show on Saturday, May 4 from 10 am to 1 pm in the Middleton Park Pavilion area, 4610 E. Dolphin Drive, Oak Island. The Coastal Home & Lifestyle Show will highlight nearly 50 businesses that specialize in home maintenance and repair, outdoor living and supporting an active lifestyle.

The Youth Business Fair participants will be judged, and awards given for Most Original, Highest Business Potential, Best Presentation and Overall.  For more information contact the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce at 910-457-6964 or visit the website at www.youthbusinessfair. com

SOUTHPORT SUMMER MARKET SOUTHPORT SUMMER MARKET

9 A - 2 P

The Southport Summer Market will run every Wednesday from the first Wednesday of May until the last Wednesday in August, excluding the week of the Fourth of July, and will be open from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The market operates rain or shine unless determined otherwise by the Market Committee due to hazardous weather conditions.

Southport encourages all residents and visitors to join in supporting local vendors and savoring the unique charm that the S M k b i h h f h i Fort Johnston Lawn, 2-4 p.m.

Keeping Fit

Eating On Vacation

Don’t Let Stress of Vacation Eat Away At You

STORY BY VICTOR FERNANDEZ

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

More than a month has passed since my family’s trip to Disney World in March, and of course, “How was your trip?” has been the most popular question I have received from people asking about our time in the Happiest Place on Earth. The No. 2 question…“How was the food?” Which as a professional health and fitness coach, I took to mean, “How did you eat healthy?”

The answer…

It actually was easy – for a couple of reasons.

Secondly, thanks to my wife Shelly’s meticulous research, I prepared in advance for where we would eat and what those restaurants offered.

Long before traveling to Orlando, Florida, she mapped out our daily itinerary for

First, unlike many people nationwide these days, I’m not an all-in or all-out kind of person. I didn’t attempt to stay as disciplined and dedicated as I am at home, and I didn’t blow up in one week all the work I have done for more than a decade, and all the gains I have made along the way.

the entire week, nearly down to the minute.

Along with being able to maximize our time in each of the parks we visited, that helped us pinpoint the best option for meals, specifically lunch and dinner, each

day. With that information in hand, we began researching various restaurants and eateries that would best fit into our daily plan.

Then we checked out their respective menus. So, when it was time to eat, I walked into each establishment with a solid idea in mind of what I would eat.

No fuss – and most importantly, no stress – because I began each day knowing I could enjoy myself without getting off track, and I didn’t have to worry about the choices I made because I already was confident in the choices I would make.

And with Memorial Day, the unofficial start to the summer season, fast approaching, a little advance preparation will go a long way to making your vacation plans as stress-free as possible (at least nutritionally speaking, anyway).

Here are some helpful tips to keep top of mind when you’re on vacation so you can focus on having guilt-free fun in the sun while staying on track with your health and fitness goals:

* Don’t Head Out Hungry: Have a healthy snack before heading out to satisfy your hunger. It’s no different than when you head to the grocery store. If we aren’t hungry while walking up and down each aisle, we stand a better chance of not putting a

Keeping Fit

* Don’t Eat While Waiting: Don’t fill up on bread and other appetizers while waiting for main course. I used to make this common mistake over and over again in my heavier days when unhealthy choices were a staple of my diet. Often, there are fewer healthy versions of appetizers than dinners. So, staying away from those fillers leaves much more room for our meal.

* Order Vegetables and Protein: Calorie-dense vegetables and lean proteins, such as chicken and fish, satiate us faster and keep us stay satiated longer. Vegetables provide slow-metabolizing fiber, and proteins take longer to metabolize as well.

* Have a Salad With Dressing on the Side: Salads are always a healthy choice, especially with lean protein included. But dressings high in calories, sugar and saturated fat quickly make those same salads unhealthy option.

I’m simple with my salad dressing. I have used olive oil and vinegar all my life, but a

tasty balsamic vinaigrette can provide the same nutrients while adding some zesty flavor to your meal. Also, I dip each forkful of salad in the dressing instead of pouring it on to savor the flavor without adding extra unwanted calories.

* Eat Slowly, Stop Early: Portions at restaurants often are two to three times larger than the average portion size. I cut my meal in half and put one half into a box to take home for a meal the next day. Then I take my time eating. Studies show it takes our brain 20 minutes to signal our stomach that we are full. When we eat quickly, our stomach often is full long before we know it is.

These tips seem simple, don’t they? That’s because they are.

The work we do each day to stay healthy and fit is hard. But the process we should follow doesn’t need to be. It can – and should – be simple and straightforward, even when our normal routine changes at vacation time.

Work smarter, not harder…and of course,

enjoy!

And if you want to learn more about meal prepping in advance 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.

Freedom Run Returns

Registration Open For 4th of July Event

STORY CONTRIBUTED

Families looking for a unique July 4th destination need look no further than Southport. The city’s annual Independence Day celebration is the official celebration of the state of North Carolina, and this year’s festivities promise to be better than ever.

One of the festival’s most popular events has returned after an eight-year hiatus — the Freedom Run and Walk. Sponsored by Novant Health, the run will be held on Saturday, June 29. The race begins at 8 am, and participants are guaran-

teed a Freedom Run t-shirt if entering by June 14. This year’s fee for the 5k is $35 for early registration and $45 for registrations after June 14. There is no charge for the 1-mile run/walk. Interested participants can visit the festival’s website,

www.nc4thofjuly.com, for details and an entry form. Fleet Feet of Wilmington will be contributing to winner prize. The 5k and 1-mile fun run begin and end at Waterfront Park in Southport.

Other highlights of the celebration include picnics, arts and crafts, a car show, parade, fireworks, firemen’s competition, children’s games, live en-

tertainment nightly, great food, and, of course, lots of red, white, and blue. This year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

The festival’s Independence Day celebration is a must-see event for anyone looking for a fun and patriotic way to celebrate July 4th. For more information on the festival, please visit www.nc4thofjuly.com.

Marilyn Ridgeway

Quilter Teaches Hand-Dyeing of Fabrics

STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

Marilyn Ridgeway has been teaching quilting classes at Brunswick Community College (BCC) Southport Center for several years, and now she is teaching her students how to dye their own fabric to make their own unique projects. Her 20 years of experience making quilts is evident in her fabulous creations, including some with fabrics she dyed herself. Marylin’s quilts are all works of art. My favorite one, she has aptly named Neptune, is one of Marilyn’s masterpieces. It is a large quilt of the god Neptune, and he is hanging up in the hallway at the Southport Center in all his glory. Much of the fabric for that one was hand-dyed by Marylin.

With her quilting classes being so popular, it was only natural that her students also should learn the art of dying fabrics for their own work. “Students saw the possibilities of dyeing and using their fabrics to make a project their own. Hand dyes make beautiful backgrounds for appliqués,” said Marylin. “Students have lots of ideas about what they will do with the fabric.”

Since the Southport Center wasn’t built

initially to be an art center but a school with regular classrooms, only a few rooms had sinks and running water. However, they installed a new large sink in the clay storage room not long ago. With this addition, Marilyn and her students can do fabric dying. “Students will have made fifteen yards of unique fabric,” she said. “We made gradient, light, medium, and dark shades specifically in quilts, as quilt patterns are most effective if they contain all three values.”.

Marylin started quilting when she lived on Bald Head Island. She has incorporated a large room in her house for quilt making. The quilt students are now a very tight-

knit group of artisans. “My dear friend Maria Clancy and I began dyeing fabric after taking a Shibori dyeing class together,” she said. “We began dyeing fabric for the Old Baldy Quilts and learning more techniques, including batik, indigo dyeing, and ice dyeing,” she said. “The first class I taught at BCC was a beginning piecing class,” said Marylin. “My friends and their friends actually made up my first class because they wanted me to get back into quilting. One of my friends had never used a sewing machine. Since that traditional first class, we have offered classes in free-motion quilting and walking foot quilting. Some classes will teach techniques like One Block Wonder or New York Beauty, and then the students will pick their own projects. In other classes, we will choose a pattern, and all of us will make the same pattern. The students have grown in number, and now we have a tight group that calls themselves ‘The Quilt Cartel.’”

When Marylin’s class was dying the fabrics, they were all business with creating beautiful fabrics using several different dyeing techniques. “The type of fabric

Marilyn Ridgeway with King Neptune

Dye by Kathy Hillsinger

we use is called PFD, or prepared for dyeing. It has no finishes added to it that would impede the dye from entering the fabric. You can also soak fabric for 15 minutes in soda ash to prepare it for dyeing. Our PFD fabric was Kona cotton. Any natural fabric, cotton, wool, or silk will be dyed with proion dyes. Students dyed some cotton fabric clothing and silk scarves,” she said. “We used Procion Reactive MX dyes for our class,” she said.  “We do Shibori dyeing in five gallon buckets wrapping the fabric around PVC pipes, folding it patterns and then putting into a wooden clamped press to dye.

The process of painting with dye is different. Some techniques require a curing period of 24 hours. The soda ash or dye activator only lasts about an hour, so the fabric will only accept the dye for an hour. However, different processes will require curing for 24 hours. All fabric requires rinsing vigorously to remove any remaining dye particles, then laundering and ironing to bring out the beauty of the fabric.”

Check out Marylin’s quilt classes at the Southport Center. She has an unfinished

projects class starting in May. “I hope to offer another fabric dyeing class in the Spring quarter. Due to space in the sink room, the class is limited to six students. “It has been a fun class to teach, as the students were very enthusiastic.

Art History Lecture Series

The presenter, Kirah Van Sickle, is an artist and seasoned storyteller. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Painting from the Academy of Art University, in San Francisco and - is an instructor at the Museum School at Cameron Art Museum in Wilmington. Join her for any or all of these informative talks at the Gallery.

April 17 Art that Shaped America

May 1 Joaquin Sorolla: Spain’s Monet

June 12 Post Impressionism: The Genesis of Expressionism

June 26 Watercolor Masters

July 17 Dada, Dreams and Dali

Sponsored by a grant from

Dye by Susan Pekala

Golf Tips

Nicole’s Golf Notes

Golf’s Consistency Challenge

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.

Whenever I inquire about a student’s goals, the top response is the desire for more consistency. It’s a super popular quest by all golfers. Who wouldn’t want to find the perfect way to move the ball the same way each time — it’s so much more fun, rewarding and easy!

The interesting thing, though, is that consistency is a myth. As human beings who function a little differently every day, a more realistic goal might be to have a smaller window of variability. Instead of the big misses, can the shots have a lot closer pattern, wavering maybe a little this way or that way but not as wide a dispersion?

Pia Nilsson and Lynn Marriott are world-renown owner coaches of VISION54 (Pia coached Annika Sorenstam and they both coach many great current Tour players, amateur competitors and recreational golfers). They say be a “Master of Variability – Be adaptable! Every day on the golf course will be variable. Consistency is a myth. You want to learn your own common tendencies what you do when playing great and how you get in your own way. Those tendencies can be consistent! By recognizing these tendencies you can start to

manage yourself on the course, no matter what happens each day – and you will be a master of your own variability.”

While playing at Wake Forest University on scholarship for the women’s golf team, I had shot my lowest round of golf during a qualifier for a travel event at one point. What a fluid, easy round – I couldn’t do anything wrong! I expected that the next day and tried to find what I had instead of being who I was that day and hitting the shots I had that day and scored a lot higher than expected.

Having great routines and a perfect swing doesn’t mean it’ll come through as planned. It just increases our odds. Golf is a difficult game for a round, let alone four rounds in a row to win an event at a professional touring level or amateur Club Championship.

Dr. Robert Bjork, distinguished cognitive psychology research professor at UCLA, has done a great amount re-

search on learning and forgetting. Just because one can perform something doesn’t mean it’s been learned and conversely just because something’s been learned doesn’t mean that it can always be performed exactly the same. Two top players at The Masters recently both hit their second shot way right of the 15th green on the final day, very offline for players of their caliber. How could that happen after all the millions of golf balls they’ve hit with a coach right there? It’s the human factor and just because they’ve learned it doesn’t mean it can always be

performed the way we intend, so we need to give ourselves some slack, acknowledge and honor the human factor, and move forward to do it again. So how can one create a tighter result pattern?

1.Be aware of both your technical skill and your human skills you bring to the table each day, they’ll vary and that’s OK. Just check in with what you have that day. A former colleague of mine who coached at a large SEC university men’s golf team and had played in two U.S. Opens said if his ball curved a little right that day, he played it. If it curved a little left another day, he played it. He didn’t try to fix it. He learned how to make his shots that day get to the hole. Patterns are a gift, so learn to recognize them and capitalize on them.

Golf Tips

2.Spend energy on what you can control and not what you can’t. Golfers spend too much time on trying to micromanage things that are out of one’s control (other people, weather, results, fairness, one’s swing mechanics). Do your best to plan and then not worry, play. Rehearse a swing feel or image away from the ball and then once you address the ball, it’s time to play, not think and micromanage. In The Master’s

recently, Ludvig Aberg from Sweden did all his planning (95 percent of his shot) and then spent very little time over the ball and executed his shot (5 percent of his shot). Let go of things you can’t control and focus on your planning, intent, attitude, how you power yourself during a round with food and hydration, how you warm-up effectively… remember it takes only 15 minutes to actually play the game of golf. All the time between those swings are how you can be successful or not, based on what you tend to be attentive to and how you react.

3.Learn to practice better with blocked (repetitive) and random (scrimmaging) type practice so that what’s learned can then also be performed with variables. I love taking students out on the course or range for Transfer Play Practice. Hitting 10 7-irons on the range is one thing. Super and congratulations! But can you do it after having had five minutes since your last swing on a totally different terrain with the perceived pressure of the match or your friends’ comments?

It’s one thing to learn how to shoot a basketball over and over again. It’s another to shoot a basketball with someone charging at you with arms flailing and a crowd cheering for you to miss while you have to pivot, re-set and shoot…did you practice shooting that way? Train better! Check out a brilliant book a colleague of mine, Trent Wearner called “Golf Scrimmages: Realistic Practice Games under Pressure” to help learn how to hit shots.

4.Be okay knowing you can’t be consistent but striving towards a tighter window of variance. A golfer might only hit one shot straight on the range but the other nine were only five-ten yards off in each direction. That’s better than three very straight shots and the other seven shot being 20 yards or more off and ‘out of bounds’…it’s a more playable tendency.

Above all, stay the course, enjoy exploring your game and either being successful on some days and rounds and learning about what could be better on the other days.

Bible Scanning

Collecting Community Family Histories

STORY CONTRIBUTED

Family Bible records are among the most prized lineage proofs for genealogy enthusiasts. These records are often the only proof of a person’s important life dates, marriages and family members. Residents are invited to share their Bible records with genealogy researchers by taking them to a scanning event to be held at the genealogy research room of Brunswick Community College (2nd floor Building A) on May 13 to 16 from 9 am until 4:30 pm.

Brunswick Town Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) members will scan the records to digital files which will be stored at the library and return the Bible to the owners – all in just a few minutes.

Bible records from all parts of the world will be accepted.

The Brunswick Town Chapter NSDAR Genealogy Research Room is a joint venture with Brunswick Community College.

Daughters of the American Revolution is a service organization founded in 1890 for women who can prove direct, blood lineage from a Revolutionary War

Patriot. The organization promotes patriotism, education, and historic preservation.

DAR is a nonprofit, nonpolitical volunteer organization with more than 185,000 members in 3,000 chapters across the world. There are more than 100 chapters in North Carolina. The Brunswick Town Chapter has more than 160 members, several of

whom descend from Patriots who lived in Brunswick County while fighting for our country’s independence. The chapter’s membership descends more than 700 proven Patriots from the original 13 colonies.

Spring is breaking out all over

SAVE THE DATE

Special Premium Voyager’s Dinner

Thursday, May 30th, 2024

Finest Healthy Foods from Around the World Seatings at 5:15 pm and 7:30 pm

Our Chef’s Inspired Special Tasting Prix-Fixe:Includes 5 Small Plates & Healthful Beverages

Look for our New Seasonal Regular Menu and Unique Specials Everyday

Look for Specials for Memorial Day Weekend Enjoy Our Wednesday Night Soirées: Cocktails and Bar Drinks, and Tapas and Entrée Specials and discounts will continue! Live music with Jake Beamer each Wednesday Dinner. Our famous Brunches, also with Live Music will include Specials on Cinco de Mayo and Memorial Weekend Sunday Brunch. Enjoy our Summer Regular Menus and Daily Specials that are always a feature of our daily Core Meal Services We’ve been working to Serve You since 2011. Thanks for these prior awards:

Thank you for voting us: Maggie Award: “Most Creative Menu”

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

Spring Plant Sale

Master Gardeners Share Their Expertise

STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

The Extension Master GardenerSM volunteers of Brunswick County are sponsoring their annual Spring Plant Sale on Friday, May 3 from 9 am to noon (or until they sell out) at the Extension Botanical Garden greenhouse area located at the Government Complex, 25 Referendum Drive, behind Building N in Bolivia.

The sale will feature native phlox, salvias, coneflowers, and perennials. New selections include unusual irises and day lilies.  Flowering shrubs that are new to the sale include three varieties of difficult to find native azaleas. Beautiful tree varieties on sale include five varieties of three-gallon sized Japanese Maples. New offerings will be posted online at https://bcmgva.org.

While at the sale, please allow time to visit the Botanical Demonstration Garden just across the road where docents will be available to answer your questions. Throughout the gardens you will see name tags with botanical and common names of the various specimens. These tags also contain QR codes that link to the Plant Toolbox maintained by NC State University. Just hold your phone’s camera over the code and a link to the plant’s description should pop up.

The Master Gardners are looking forward to a wonderful spring in Brunswick County and a fantastic Spring Plant Sale!

Soil Testing Info

The best first step toward having a beautiful garden and landscape is having your soil tested every couple of years. Homeowner/Residential Soil Kits are available for pick up on a table in front of the Extension Office doorways. Each soil test kit gives you three boxes for testing different areas of your yard and then you deliver them back, so they can be sent to the labs at NC State University. Your soil results are returned directly to you by email. Instead of picking up and delivering your soil tests back to the Extension office, you may pick up AND drop off soil kits and testing boxes at the following locations throughout Brunswick County: Ace Hardware in Southport, Scott’s Farm/

Jack’s Farm Center as well as Green Resource in Shallotte, Heritage Fresh Market (off Route 17) in Supply, Ace Hardware in Calabash, and Ace Hardware and Shelton Herb Farm in Leland.

The Extension MasterSM Gardener volunteers greatly appreciate your support as they raise funds to support the Botan-

ical Demonstration Gardens located beside the Extension offices, landscaping for Habitat for Humanity houses, and a wide variety of educational programming to help Brunswick County residents succeed in gardening in our coastal environment.           For more information or questions, contact the Master Gardner Volunteers via email at bcmgvat@gmail.com .

Sally Stidham

Valerie Earman Karen Saunders

Joey Kronenwetter

Morgan Quinn

Katherine Wooten Mary Carneiro Tanya 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

502 Genoes Point Road

Lockwood Folly - New Construction 3

145 Eagle Court

Lockwood Folly - New Construction

1993 Styrons Landing Road

Styrons Landing - Presale Construction 3 bed | 2 bath | $685,000

Are you a Veteran, active service member or surviving spouse? If so, then you may qualify for a

Home Mortgage Corporation is not affiliated with or acting on behalf of or at the direction of VA or the Federal government. All applications are subject to underwriting guidelines and approval. This does not constitute an offer to lend.***

SPOTTINGS

Franklin Square Gallery proudly announces the winners of this year’s Brunswick County High School Art Show, recently on display at the Gallery in downtown Southport.

Dozens of talented Brunswick County high school students entered their artwork in the show, which included paintings, drawings, mixed media work and sculpture. At a ceremony on April 14, 2024, the following awards were given:

• Best in Show: Madelynn Gedman of South Brunswick High School for her pen and ink drawing, “Portrait of Me.”

• First Place winners for 2D work: Liv Radovinac of North Brunswick High School for her painting, “Still Life Composition;” Isabella Di Lembo of North Brunswick High School for her photograph,“Cyanotype;” and Braelyn Anderson of South Brunswick High School for her graphite drawing, “Bones.”

• First Place winner for 3D work: Emilee Lake of South Brunswick High School for her polymer clay sculpture,“Bookcase.”

These young artists received cash awards through a grant from the Brunswick Arts Council ARPA Program, a Designated County Partner of the North Carolina Arts Council.

Dosher Memorial Hospital’s Surgical Services department has been named a 2023 Human Experience (HX) Guardian of Excellence Award® winner by Press Ganey, the global leader in healthcare experience solutions and services. This award is part of Press Ganey’s annual ranking of top hospitals and health systems in the country, according to performance in patient experience.

As a winner of the Press Ganey HX Guardian of Excellence Award®, Dosher is in the top 5 percent of healthcare providers for patient experience in surgical care in the last year.

“We recognize Dosher as a top performing leader in healthcare for their commitment to patient experience,” said Patrick T. Ryan, chairman and CEO at Press Ganey. “They understand the importance of placing patients, healthcare professionals, and industry partners at the core of their work. Dosher turns words into action by fostering a future where exceptional healthcare experiences are not just goals but tangible achievements.”

History Union Colored Troops

Brunswick Civil War Round Table Meeting

STORY CONTRIBUTED

The Brunswick Civil War Round Table is pleased to announce U.S. Navy Captain Edward W. Gantt (Ret.) will be the guest speaker at its Tuesday, May 7 meeting foe a presentation of “Contributions of the United States Colored Troops during the Civil War.” This meeting will also mark this organization’s 14th anniversary; the group continues to be nationally recognized as the largest Civil War round table in the country with 1,095 members, adding 157 new members since last September. The meeting will be held at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Registration begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome to hear Capt. Gantt’s enlightening presentation, and help celebrate this festive occasion until monthly meetings resume on Tuesday, Sept. 3.

Despite the Union rejecting Black enlistments early in the war, the United States Colored Troops eventually played a critical role in their victories. More than 180,000 African Americans enlisted, which included 175 USCT regiments, accounting for roughly 10 percent of the Union Army. Their regiments fought with courage and distinction, challenging racist notions about their fighting ability. Their forces fought bravely in battles like Port Hudson and Fort Wagner, and played a key role in capturing Charleston, South Carolina, the “Cradle of Secession,” and Richmond, Virginia, the Confederate capital, swaying public opinion in the North toward abolition and equality. To this point, President Abraham Lincoln acknowledged that without the military help of the black freedmen, the war against the South could not have been won. Importantly, their service paved the way for greater social equality in the post-war era. It demonstrated that Black men were willing and capable of fighting for the nation, a crucial step toward their eventual civil rights advancement. The USCT’s service paved the way for greater equality for Black Americans, though the fight for civil rights continued for many years.

Capt. Gantt has had a coveted career.

During his first tour of duty, he graduated from the U.S. Army Airborne and Ranger schools at Fort Benning, GA. Later he saw combat as a helicopter door gunner and crew chief in South Vietnam. After graduating from Howard University, he returned to the military, entering the Naval Aviation Officer Candidate School where he received his Naval Flight Officer Wings of Gold. Career duty has taken him around the world, including the Mediterranean Sea, the In-

dian Ocean, and the West Pacific, flying more than 2,000 hours, including from several aircraft carriers. In July 2000, he took command of Navy boot camp at Great Lakes, Illinois, responsible for the development of nearly 50,000 sailors annually. He retired from the Navy in 2003 after 30 years of active service. A few year later, he began a new career as a public school teacher. In 2014 he began an association with the 23rd Infantry Regiment USCT Civil War re-enactors and living historians. And currently he is

a member of Company B, 54th Massachusetts Civil War re-enactors, and president of the re-formed 23rd Regiment USCT in Spotsylvania, Virginia.

For this last meeting of the current season, and one not to be missed, the guest fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues, which can include a spouse. For more information about the Tuesday, May 7 meeting, contact president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail. com, or call him at 404-229-9425. Or, visit their website at Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com to learn more, become a member, or learn about member benefits. The Facebook page also has additional information, news, and updates.

CALENDAR

May

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

MAY

3-5 AND 10-12

That 70s Music — Aumuzu Theatre

Get ready to boogie down with this groovy show from an amazing cast at the Historic Amuzu Theatre, 111 N. Howe St. Singers and musicians will perform favorite tunes from decade, including Stand By Your Man,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Dancing Queen,” “Desperado,” and many more. Friday night shows are at 7:30 pm an the Sunday shows are at 3 pm. Tickets are $25 and are available at Rickey Evans Gallery (Howe Street in Southport) and Color Me Carolina (Long Beach Road).

MAY 4

Coastal Home & Lifestyle Show and Youth Business Fair

Learn what 50 area businesses can offer for your home maintenance and healthy lifestyle needs at this expo, 10 am to 1 pm at Oak Island’s Middleton park Fields, at the corner of SE 46th and Dolphin Drive (parking will be free for the event). The Youth Business Fair participants will also be on hand with their products and services for purchase, so let’s support our future entrepreneurs!

MAY 4

Indoor Spring Crafters Festival

This indoor crafters market features more than 40 vendors and raffle prizes. There will also be a hot dog lunch offered for $5. The market is 8 am to 2 pm at the Brunswick Senior Center at Southport, 1513 N. Howe St., Suite 1.

MAY 4

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.

MAY 5

Brunswick Bands Concert

The Brunswick Winds performs ON BROADWAY, 3 pm at Odell Williamson Auditorium on the campus of Brunswick Community College, 150 College Road, Bolivia. Conductor Michael Stringer will lead the group in selections from Broadway favorites such as “Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Miserables,” “Rent,” “Wicked,” “The King and I,” and many more.

MAY 7

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

Edward W. Gantt, a retired U.S. Navy Captain, high school teacher, Civil War re-enactor, and currently president of the re-formed 23rd Regiment USCT in Spotsylvania, Virginia will lead this month’s program on “Contributions of the USCTs During the Civil War,” highlighting the fact that nearly 200,000 African American soldiers fought in the Civil War. Registration begins at 6:15 pm. Programs start at 7 pm. The visitor fee is $10 and may be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues. For more information, please contact president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail. com, or call him at 404-229-9425. See full story elsewhere in this issue.

MAY 8

Meet the Author

Friends of the Library Southport-Oak Island will host author Sara Ochs to discuss her book “The Resort” at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., beginning at 4 pm. The book is a murder mystery, and was Amazon’s Editor pick in February. Seating is limited for this event; call 910457-6237 or visit https://brunsco.libcal. com/event/12347228 to register.

Tour Dosher Hospital

Dosher Memorial Hospital invites community members to take an in-person tour of the hospital at 1 pm. Local residents will get an up-close look at the services offered and have an opportunity to have questions about the hospital answered by knowledgeable professionals. The tour group will meet in the front lobby of the main hospital building at 924 N. Howe St., Southport. Space is limited, therefore registration is requested. Call 910-457-3900, or email marketing@dosher.org to reserve your spot.

Join Chief Drew as he tells the story of the history of the Southport Fire Department. May 14, 10 mam at Harper Library

MAY 10-11

Creating a Character

Actress, author and storyteller Carolyn Evans leads sessions on acting and interpretation — creating a character. The 2-day workshop is 10 am to 3 pm at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site. Space will be limited, and the cost is $25. Visit www.brunswickartscouncil.org to register.

MAY 11

Flea Market — Southport Yacht Club

The Club holds its annual flea market at Morningstar Marina, featuring all things marine, such as boating supplies, nautical crafts and novelties. The market is 9 am to 3 pm at the Marina, 606 W. West St. in Southport.

MAY 14

History of the Southport Fire Department

Join Chief Drew as he tells the story of the history of the Southport Fire Department. The official beginning of the Department was in 1893, with firefighting roots in Southport that go back to the community’s founding in 1792. The program is 10 am at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St.

MAY 17

Oak Island Senior Center Gift Shop and Yard and Bake Sale

Shop for handmade products and homemade baked goods, 8 am to 2 pm at the Center, 5918 E. Oak Island Drive.

MAY 17

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.

MAY 17

Community Dentistry Day — Coastal Cosmetics Family Dentistry

Residents of Brunswick County may be seen for one of the following services free of charge: a teeth cleaning, one filling, or one tooth extraction. There will be a patient registration (English or Spanish) to complete prior to being seen. The services will be offered 7:30 am to 2:30 pm at the office, 3071 Southport-Supply Road (N.C. 211). First-come, first served; plan to arrive early. All ages are welcome, and as many patients will be treated as is safely possible.

MAY 17

Brunswick Little Theatre

Comedian Lee Hardin performs; the show will also feature special guest Chris Ruppe. Visit https://www.brunswicklittletheatre.com/ for ticket information. This clean comedy show will be at 7:30 pm at the theatre, 8068 River Road SE, Southport.

MAY 18

Women of the Port

This living history event at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site focuses 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 Port Brunswick. This free event is from 10 am to 4 pm at the site, 8884 St Phillips Rd

SE, Winnabow (off N.C. 133) and is for all ages.

MAY 21

“Silent Sentinels”

Members of the North Carolina Military History Society present this month’s Third Tuesday program at the NC Maritime Museum Southport. The program is at noon at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. The program is free, but donations to the Museum are appreciated. Seating is limited; visit https://ncmaritimemuseumsouthport.com/ or call 910-4775151 to register.

MAY 21

Brunswick Partnership for Housing fundraiser at American Fish

It’s dancing, food and fun for a great cause. The Brunswick Partnership for Housing is holding a fundraiser featuring The Salty Dawgs band at the American Fish Company, 150 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport.  Doors open at 5 pm, and the band plays from 6-8 p.m. Tickets are $50. The event includes food from The Frying Pan, a 50/50 drawing and cash bar.  To purchase tickets, contact Steve Moore at 919-601-2765, stevenam70@gmail.com or Susan Crabtree at 267-235-6132, susan-crabtree@ hotmail.com.  Tickets also may be purchased online at brunswickpartnership. org.  Cash or checks are payable to BPH.

MAY 23

Southport Historical Society celebration

Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the salubrious breezes at the Garrison Lawn, where the Southport Historical Society will celebrate the commemorative bricks that are placed in the walkway in front of Fort Johnston Museum and Visitors’ Center. Word has it that a few special guests will include past members of our Community as portrayed by our “Living Voices” Actors. Live musical entertainment from Up The Creek. This meeting/program is free and open to the public, and it starts at 5:30 pm.

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 910269-6885 for more information.

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. The May Deep Dive Into History program is May 18; live interpretations, displays and hands-on activities enhance the museum experience. The Anchors Away hands-on program for May is 11 am to 3 pm on the 29th, and features dyeing with indigo. 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. Upcoming dates are: May 4, 7 and 21, and 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,

CALENDAR

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)

May 2 — Double Cherry Pie

May 9 — Rev & The Flying Flamingoes

May 16 — Double Cherry Pie

May 23 — Trilogy

May 30 —  Double Cherry Pie

June 6 — Rev & The Flying Flamingoes

American Fish Co.

150 Yacht Basin Drive

Friday and Saturday music is 7-10 pm and Sunday music is 4-7 pm

May 3 — Steel County Express

May 4 — Dirty Blonde Band

May 5 — Double Billed

May 10 — Christine Martinez Band

May 11 — Salty Dawgs

May 12 — NowCat

Southport Suzie’s

4956 Long Beach Road, Suite 1

May 4 — The Old School

May 11 — Blue Tulip Jazz

May 13 — guest speaker Rich Sullivan

May 18 — Up the Creek

May 20 — author Theresa Dodaro

May 25 — Rev & The Flying Flamingoes

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

May 24 — Blackwater Band

May 31 — Christine Martinez Band

June 7 — Ntranze

June 14 — Too Much Sylvia

June 21 — The Entertainers

June 28 — The Sand Band

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.

May 5 — Charlene and the Bluegrass Charlatans

May 12 — A Class Act

May 19 — Kenny Reeves and Trainwreck

May 26 — The Sea and Sand Band

June 2 — Carolina Crazy Band

June 9 — The 52nd Street Band

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 Thursdays and live music is on Sundays.

Southport Tap & Cellar

827 N. Howe St., Southport

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

The Mullet Bar

112 Yacht Basin Drive

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

THE WINE RACK

102 W. Brown St., Southport.

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

THE PUB OF SOUTHPORT

1513 N. Howe St., Unit 10, Southport

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

TIKI TAVERN

104 E. 8th St., Southport

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

UNCORKED BY THE SEA WINE SHOP & GALLERY

602 N. Howe St. Southport

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

208 PARK AVENUE EXT.,

SOUTHPORT. 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,513 SF | RECENT PRICE REDUCTION. Experience the enchanting allure of this inviting Southport Coastal Cottage, ideally situated just moments away from the picturesque downtown area and the tranquil Cape Fear River. Step inside to discover hardwood floors throughout, infusing the space with a sense of warmth and character. Upstairs, the master suite awaits, complete with recently updated bathroom to include a spacious tile walkin shower and ample closet space. The open-concept layout downstairs creates an inviting atmosphere for entertaining. Currently listed at $469,900 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Pat Proctor at (910) 278-5213 (ext.240) for details.

238 NE 37TH STREET, OAK

ISLAND. 3 BR, 3 BA, 2,283 SF | RECENT PRICE REDUCTION. TURNKEY LIVING at its FINEST! This inviting home offers the ideal blend of comfort, convenience, and everything you could desire in an island home. The open concept living space and included furnishings ensure a seamless transition to your new coastal lifestyle. The ground floor offers a flex space and game room featuring a pool table that’s ideal for leisurely evenings with friends and family. Outside is a tropical oasis featuring a stylish swimming pool with a fenced backyard that provides ample privacy for hosting parties. Also included is a 6-passenger Golf Cart! Currently listed at $750,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Connie Kisling at (336) 254-6053 for details.

MARKETPLACE

1001 E OAK ISLAND DRIVE, OAK ISLAND. 2 BR, 2 BA, 1,373 SF | RECENT PRICE REDUCTION. Come take a look at this house and get ready to make it your own! Excellent location just 1 block from the beach walkover and not in a flood zone. This home has new flooring and been freshly painted just for you! Granite countertops in the kitchen and plenty of room to entertain friends and family. There are 2 very large bedrooms and an additional flex area that could easily be used for additional sleeping, an office or just soaking up the sun. There is storage galore in the carport area as well as a separate shed. An outdoor shower makes rinsing off the sand a breeze, and there is a hot tub for your relaxation pleasure. Current listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Marcia Erwin at (919) 345-9295 for more information.

5234 WALDEN COURT SE, SOUTHPORT. 3 BR, 2 BA, 2,786 SF, The Landing at3 BR, 2 BA, 1,776 SF | RECENT PRICE REDUCTION. This well-appointed home is situated on a large, elevated lot in Walden Creek Estates, which is well established and known for a peaceful, natural setting. Some of the features will include, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, decorative chair molding, palladium windows for added light, stainless steel appliances in the kitchen, built-in desk, granite countertops, tile backsplash, two pantries, large laundry room, cozy light filled sunroom leading to the spacious backyard and lots of storage throughout – along with numerous upgrades in recent months. Currently listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call John Dosher at (910) 457-5258 for details.

5234 WALDEN COURT SE, SOUTHPORT, NC, 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,776 SF, Walden Creek Estates. Located on a large, elevated lot in Walden Creek Estates, 5234 Walden Court SE is a well-appointed home in an established neighborhood surrounded by nature. Step inside this solid-built home and experience the welcomed atmosphere of a thoughtfully designed floor plan, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, decorative chair moldings, and an abundance of light. Schedule your private showing of this Southport beauty today! Currently listed at $429,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. John Dosher at 910-448-0536 for details.

3030 MARSH WINDS CIRCLE, UNIT 1102 - ST. JAMES. 2 bed | 2 bath | $329,000. FIRST FLOOR, FULLY FURNISHED condo located in the vibrant private community of St. James Plantation! The main unit offers one bedroom and bathroom with a lockout unit with a one bedroom/bathroom setup as well. Open the connecting doors to occupy both spaces or lock them and use either side as a rental investment like the current owner. Call Sally Stidham, Southport Realty,Inc., for more information, (910) 540-8320.

3 bed | 2 bath |

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.

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.

124 STUART AVE., SOUTHPORT. 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.

1002 BONNER BUSSELLS DRIVE.

$689,000.

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

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 910-363-4382 -

Featuring homemade sweet potato biscuits and fried seafood, as well as other delicacies such as pan seared grouper.

M ISLAND WAY RESTAURANT

1407 E. Beach Dr., Oak Island 910-278-7770

www.islandwayres.com

Offering fine steaks, from filet mignon to flat iron, and fresh seafood, from lobster to crab cakes, with attentive service.

KOKO CABANA

705 Ocean Drive, Oak Island (910) 933-6222

Open Tues - Sun. Seafood Specialties, Steaks, Sandwiches, Salads

MOJO’S ON THE HARBOR

16 Marina Way, Bald Head Island 910-457-7217

www.mojoontheharbor.com

Featuring Southern classics :fried pickles, shellfish steam pots to global dishes like Italian meat antipasto and Mediterraneans shrimp and grits.

MOORE STREET OYSTER BAR

110 E. Moore Street, Southport (910) 363-5115

Moore Street Oyster Bar is an oyster pub rooted in the traditions of coastal Southern cooking, epitomized by the seaside town of Southport.

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

www.provisioncompany.com

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

RUSTY HOOKS DOCKSIDE GRILL

4907 Fish Factory Rd

Southport, (910) 477-6616

www.rustyhooksdockside.com

Fun dining featuring fresh local seafood and generational recipes, guaranteed to leave a lasting smile on your face. Come join our small piece of paradise along the coast of Carolina; our team looks forward to greeting you. We welcome boaters to pull up to our docks or con-

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 to Oak

DINING GUIDE

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

DINING GUIDE

SIDE STREAT TAKE OUT

524 N Howe St., Southport 910-363-4113

Tex-Mex style cuisines at a local take-out joint.

PIZZERIAS

BAMBINI’S PIZZERIA

1513 N Howe St, Southport 477-9352

A New York Style Pizzeria featuring homemade pizza, pasta, desserts, etc. Also serving a selection of beer and wine.

BEACH ROAD PIZZA AND WINGS

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

DRY STREET PUB AND PIZZA

101 E. Brown St., Southport 457-5994

www.drystreetpubandpizza.com

Known for handmade, original pizzas—including Margherita, “very veggie,” and Greek. Also offers salads, soups and gourmet sandwiches.

FAMOUS SUBS AND PIZZA

1541 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-5143

Recognized regionally for outstanding gyros, calzones and pizzas.

MO’S WOOD FIRED KITCHEN

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

PIZZA SHACK

6212 E. Oak Island Dr., • 278-6781

Offering a variety of pies from classic favorites to Greek white and Hawaiian.

THE PEPPERONI GRILL

3156 George II Hwy, Boiling Spring Lakes 845-5151 • www.pepperonigrillnc.com

Offering eat in, take out and delivery. As well, offering oven toasted subs and calzones.

PEPPERONI GRILL AT THE BEACH 4320 East Beach Drive • 250-1190 www.pepperonigrillnc.com

Open 7 days a week year round. Offering eat in, take out as well as delivery.

Solar Brewing

8108 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island Oak Island’s first and only brewery! Also featuring pizza, wings and even a giant pretzel!

DOMINO’S (SOUTHPORT)

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

DOMINO’S (OAK ISLAND)

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

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

THAI

N. Atlantic Ave, Southport

(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.

SIDE STREET BAKERY

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

Locals suggest the cupcakes, lemon bars, key

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

Smooth Sailing