October 2024 Southport Magazine

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

o September was quite a month, and its effects will be felt into this fall season. As I write this, it’s raining steadily outside and as I hear the rain coming down the downspout outside my office, I just have to cringe a little. More water is the last thing we need. What we do need is some patience and grace from this community. You’re great people and we’ve done it before. We need to use patience with each other, with businesses, with those trying to put things to rights and, yes, even with the traffic.

AceisyourSunglass Place

ur local small business community needs you now more than ever. We operate on small margins, and the disruption caused by the storm’s aftermath is making it difficult. As easy as it is to stay home and order from Amazon, now more than ever we urge you to go out and shop local. Go at non-peak times, go when you have extra time to use, but go. You’ll find that our local businesses will make it worth your while. Thank you so much! --Jeffrey

editor@southportmag.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Lisa P. Stites

lisa@southportmag.com

LEAD DESIGNER

Liz Brinker

lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

Chuck and Sue Cothran

STAFF

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

McKenzie Barwick

Carla Edstrom

Patty Langer

Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny

Janet Fortney

Lisa P. Stites

Jeffrey Stites

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jeffrey Stites

PUBLISHER & SALES

Jeffrey Stites

jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

CONSULTANT

Kris Beasley

PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461

Southport Magazine is published once a month by

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

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

Annual Subscription: $45

jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

Discover Southport History

Buy A Commemorative Brick to Support The Southport Historical Society Orders Open ThroughNovember 30

4” x 8” brick with 3 lines of text, $75

8” x 8” brick with 6 lines of text, $125

Some of the ways to recognize family, friends or places:

• Anniversary, birthday, holiday or other special occasion

• Military service

• Graduation

• Memorial for a loved one

• A beloved homestead

The bricks purchased during this time frame will be placed in the walkway at Ft. Johnston Museum and Visitors Center, in the Spring of 2023. Order Online at: www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/southporthistoricalsociety

The bricks purchased will be placed by Memorial Day 2025 Order Online at: www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/southporthistoricalsociety.com

Questions? Email us at info@southporthistoricalsociety.org

Questions? Email us at info@southporthistoricalsociety.org

Community

Voices From The Past Meet Historical Characters At Cemetary

STORY BY PATRICIA LANGER, PHOTOS BY LISA STITES

Do you love a good story? Do you like old cemeteries around Halloween time? Are you a fan of historical reenactments? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then head on down to the Old Smithville Burying Ground, 203 E. Bay St., Southport, for the Southport Historical Society’s annual “Living Voices of the Past” event on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 2-4 pm (rain date is Sunday, Oct. 20). It’s a historically entertaining time as legendary Southport characters “come back to life” to share their stories from the grave.

Living Voices of the Past was created by Musette Steck, a well-known historian, civil rights champion, and former president of the Southport Historical Society. Each year in late October, members of the Southport Historical Society put their acting skills to work as they take on the persona of a Southport native – some of whom happen to be buried right under their feet. Volunteers spend a great deal of time researching their character, writing their script, and rehearsing their presentation, which they deliver in the Old Smithville cemetery while dressed in period costume.

SHS volunteer Stephen Burns is the organizer of this year’s program. “Living

Voices is one of our showcase events. It highlights some of the important work we do to maintain a historical record of our town” he said.

When the Southport Historical Society was first formed in 1976, the top priority was to catalog the gravestones in the cemeteries located in town and the surrounding areas. Surveys of the gravesites were conducted in the early 1980s and documented in a book published by the Historical Society called “The Cemeteries of Southport,” written by Dot Schmidt (available at the Southport Visitors Center.)

In 2006, the Historical Society again saw an urgent need to restore and protect the Old Smithville Burying Ground, a sacred resting place for 1,093 souls for more than 200 years. Occupants include ship captains, river pilots, and many well-known characters who left their mark on Southport. According to historians, some graves date back to the mid-1700s. There are tombstones of soldiers from both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, including Governor Benjamin Smith, for whom Smithville (now Southport) was named.

Born in 1756, Smith as a colonel in the American Revolution under the command of George Washington before serving as a state senator for 25 years and eventually as governor in 1810. The grave of General Robert Howe, also a noted officer of the American Revolution who served under George Washington, is also located in the Smithville Burying Ground. And in a nod to the dangers of the Cape Fear, you’ll find a striking monument dedicated to five local men who died in the sinking of the pilot boat Mary K. Sprunt during a severe storm

Community

on Friday the 13th in April of 1877. Today, the Old Smithville Burying Ground is a peaceful, well-kept cemetery surrounded by giant live oak trees.

Living Voices of the Past typically has about 10 character enactors situated throughout the Smithville Burying Grounds. Some of this year’s reenactments will include a jailer’s wife, a quarantine station doctor, and the captain of the Oak Island Life Saving Station, which preceded the Coast Guard Station on Caswell Beach Road.

SHS volunteer Barbara Lemos will portray Rebecca Long, the widow of North Carolina’s first official lighthouse keeper, Henry Long. Rebecca took over for Henry after his untimely death in 1806 and performed brilliantly to keep the Bald Head Island lighthouse running round-the-clock. Sadly, she was not appointed as its permanent keeper because the country wasn’t ready for a woman in that role.

Bob Surridge will portray Leonard T. Yaskell, who served as the mayor of Smithville in 1927 and as its Postmaster from 19351945.

Liz Fuller, President of the SHS, will portray Jessie Stevens Taylor, who was an award-winning weather observer and flag displayer. Taylor volunteered with the National Weather Service for 55 years and was credited with saving more than 300 lives from storms that struck the Cape Fear region, including Hurricane Hazel in 1954.

Living Voices of the Past is a great fall activity and a fun way to learn some local history through the eyes of Southport’s most fascinating historical characters. Donations are appreciated to help maintain this important historical site.

To register for this event, or for more information, contact the Southport Historical Society at 910-477-3461 or www.info@ southporthistoricalsoicety.org.

Community

The Gator Hole

This Country Store Is Truly One Of A Kind

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOE JANCSURAK

The Gator Hole Country Store and Tackle in Winnabow is a shop like no other. Here you’ll find cold drinks and snacks; camping, fishing and hunting gear; a drive-thru window; kayak rentals; sunset/dinner pontoon cruises; guided fishing trips and nature boat rides; U-Haul rentals; and an unusual menagerie of animals to visit with, including a bearded dragon named Lou; a chameleon named Rango; sugar gliders named Bonnie, Lucy and Thor; chickens named Thelma and Louise; a rooster named Ugly (though he’s quite handsome); rabbits named Charcoal and Nancy; and Lily, the shop owners’ beloved and easygoing chocolate Labrador Retriever.

“We have something for almost everyone,” said Nikole Pruitt, who together with her business and life partner Jaime Short became owners of the 11-year-old local landmark more than three years ago. “At the very least, everyone is welcome to come see our animals and enjoy some good conversation.”

Natives of Reading, Ohio, a suburb

of Cincinnati, and high school friends, Nikole, 45, and Jaime, 46, went their separate ways, married and divorced before reconnecting about four years ago on Facebook before Nikole, a former restaurant and hospitality worker, moved to Oak Island with an assist from Jaime, a former security systems service technician. Soon after that the opportunity to

buy The Gator Hole presented itself, and the chance to be their own bosses while sharing their love for fishing and boating proved too good to pass up. Today, the couple lives near their store in Winnabow.

“I love it here,” said Nikole, who grew up fishing Pay Lake behind Ruby’s Bait Shop in Cleves, Ohio (also a suburb of Cincinnati) as well as the Ohio River. “Our store is just minutes away from the city (Wilmington), beaches, country and forests. Plus, the people we meet daily are so friendly. Some share Civil War stories about how Confederate forces used Town Creek to defend themselves. Others are quick to share their own life stories. I really like that.”

And so does Jaime, who grew up fishing during family trips to Lake Cumberland in Kentucky and to New Smyrna, Florida. “My dad (deceased) used to talk about how great it would be to have a drive-thru bait and tackle shop on the water like this,” said Jaime. “He

would have loved this.”

Jaime and Nikole’s love for the Gator Hole and its customers is readily seen in the store’s improvements and additions and the ways they’ve found to give back to the community. Improvements and additions include new shelving and lighting in the beverage coolers; an expanded offering of fishing, hunting and camping equipment; fishing equipment repairs; and a refurbished boat ramp for launching canoes and kayaks. In addition, all are welcome to cast their lines (for free!) in Town Creek, which runs behind the store.

“We catch red drum, black drum, sheepshead, stripers, flounder, gar and catfish,” said Nikole, adding that they’ve also caught sharks out on the Cape Fear River during fishing trips. “And, of course, there are gators that like to hang out in the creek,” noted Jaime.

As for giving back, Jaime and Nikole volunteer their services for such events as Bellville’s Annual Kids Fishing Days and Military Appreciation Days, when they along with other

Community

boat owners take veterans fishing.

Plans for the future, Jaime said, include the addition of one or more jon boats for fishing and the establishment of a flea market.

So, for a unique experience, check out The Gator Hole at 2801 River Road SE in Winnabow. Until then, later gator!

Gator Hole Options for Nature-Lovers

* Kayak rentals: $25 a half day and $40 for the full day.

* Nature rides on pontoon boat: $150 for 1.5 hours, four persons, and $25 for each additional person up to six persons total.

* Fishing Trips: $300 for 4 hours, up to two people and $50 for each additional person up to 4 persons total. Gator Hole supplies the bait, poles and drinking water

* Sunset Cruises: $225 for 3 hours and up to four persons and $25 for each additional person up to six people total.

* Dinner Cruise to and from Smoke on the Water: $300 for 5 hours and up to four people. Gator Hole makes the dinner reservations.

Jack’s Boat Pull

Fundraiser For Drowning Prevention

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

Looking to prove that you and your crew are the strongest in town? No need to wrestle giant squid, climb the Pilot Tower or lift unsuspecting tourists’ golf carts over your head. Instead your team of six can compete in the Second Annual Jack’s Boat Pull and help raise some funds to prevent drowning. It’ll be you and five friends on one end of the rope and the Sea Tow rescue boat, trailer and crew cab pick up truck on the other. First to pull the 7.5 tons across the finish line 75 feet away wins.

Jack’s Boat Pull is a fundraiser for the Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation and is held in conjunction with with the Southport Wooden Boat show on Saturday, Nov. 2 at in the parking lot of the Morningstar Marina. The first pull is at 1 pm as the boat show is winding down. In addition to the boat pulling competition, the

event features a kid’s boat pull, a DJ, food trucks, and a variety of community information booths. There will also be life vest giveaways for kids and a 50/50 drawing for cash and prizes.

According to the Jack Helbig Foundation, drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4 and is one of the top three for ages 5 through 34. Mela-

nie Roberts, President of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, said, “Last year we had 12 teams and grossed $14,000 that will help the foundation with mission critical activities which include scholarships for Brunswick School of Fish (swim lessons at BCC),

life jacket giveaways, our kindergarten water safety and literacy program and increase the amount of Rip Current awareness and rescue tube stations on Southeastern NC’s beaches.

“I am looking forward to implementing improvements in this year’s event,” Roberts said. “The event chairs — Mick Palagruto, Ken Hutton, and Gene Helbig — have been working hard to make this year’s boat pull even more successful and fun for the community. One of the biggest changes we are making is moving the kid’s boat pull to a lane right beside of the main towing area. This will highlight their event and amp up the cuteness factor.”

Last year’s event was a not only a lot of fun to watch, it was a huge success for the Foundation. “The best part about the First Annual Jack’s Boat Pull was seeing the amazing support from our community,” Roberts said. “With

over 300 participants and spectators we were able to share information about being safer around the water throughout the event.”

But they hope to make this year’s event even bigger.

“We hope to have twice as many teams sign up this year and challenge the previous winner, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office,” Roberts said. “This is truly a fun and family-friendly event. All

the teams enjoyed pulling together, literally and figuratively, and supporting water safety.”

The cost to enter a team is a $400 donation, and there is a 20team limit, so register soon to ensure your spot. Sponsorships are all available, including an opportunity to set up a booth at the event.

For information on registering a team or becoming a sponsor, visit https://www.strideevents.com/jacksboat-pull/event-information. To find out more about the Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation, visit https://jackhelbig.org/

Community

Navy Ship Model Show

The Fleet Is In--Miniature, That Is

STORY BY JAN MORGAN-SWEGLE

Some people have hobbies, and others have passions. When Jim Gower, President of the New Bern Maritime Modelers Guild says, “When you build a model, you hold history in your hands,” you know he is talking about his passion — building complex and detailed model ships, replicas of various warships in miniature.

On Oct. 19 and 20, the USS NORTH CAROLINA will play host for a show displaying these small replicas. The Fleet Is In is a Navy Ship Model Show that combines historic exploration with precision craftsmanship. Building ship models has been around for a long time and has come a long way.

Jim has a strong love of history and has been involved in modeling since he was 12 years old. “Back then, it was one of the most popular trends among guys that age,” he said. “John Wayne and other actors who were in warfare movies actually spurred me onward to build. The ‘addiction’ led me to a life of sailing at the age of 30 and I still sail today on my little 32-foot sailboat.”

Not only does Jim build models, he restores them. He recently restored a model of the USS North Carolina (BB55) from a kit that was sold in 1939 for around $2. The model was sold before the ship was even

built, so there were some differences between the model and the actual ship.

Jim said that depending on the model that you want to build, these intricate vessels can range in size from 12 inches to 7 feet long. The mission is to make the models as accurate of a representation as possible — including small hatches, railings and markings. “You need a lot of patience and a lot of wine to do this,” Jim said. “Sometimes the detailing items are so small you have to use magnifying glasses and syringes to affix the glue. People who do this aren’t just ‘hobbyists.’ They are artists.”

Models are typically made from wood or plastic materials, although Jim said he has used cardboard to represent the decks. Other materials include fiberglass, metal and paper. Modelers often use air brushes to apply paint and even varnish on the model to create an even finish, which also gives the model a more professional look and is faster than hand painting. “What you are trying to achieve,” he said, “is a museum level end product. It has to be precise in equipment, detailing and historically accurate.”

In addition to the materials used like wood or plastic, casting is most often used for making complex shapes of the ship that would be hard to make out of other materials. Heavy equipment like machines, propellers and ladders are cast and can be easily made in the required size rather than trying to attach several smaller pieces. Casting material can be brass, metal alloys, photo-etched, or the new process of 3D printing. According to Jim, casting can take two to eight hours to cure depending on the size and complexity of the model. Modelers also don’t only stick to wartime models, they build sailing vessels, clippers and recreational speed boats; some with radio controls.

Modelers also use resin in their work. Resin casting is a plastic casting method

that involves filling a mold with liquid resin which then hardens. It provides a higher quality finished product.

Hank Strub has been building models since 1950. “Back in the ‘50s that was all a kid could buy,” he said. “You got a plastic model and some glue. I’ve built a number of wood warship and sailing ship models the old-fashioned way. I got into wooden ship models in 2001. After I finished three wooden models, I got interested in making the USS NEW JERSEY, the last ship where I served. I worked on this model from 2012 to 2019.”

Jim and Hank both agree that the level of modeling that they do as well as artists in other modeling guilds takes years to create a high quality, historically accurate model.

Hank explained, “Modeling has evolved since 1980. Generally, most modelers today, in the south, are older people who produce military or old sailing ships. I’ve seen younger kids at shows who are showing Sci-Fi models. I guess they are fun to make, but they don’t have that component of being historically correct. But, from the standpoint of having a hobby, they are learning how to produce something and work with their hands. It’s better than having them stare at an iPhone all day!”

Another manner in which modeling has evolved is with 3D printing. Hank said, “I am self-taught on the subject of 3D print models. I didn’t start investigating the process until around 2019 because of an online ship modeling acquaintance of mine who was interested in learning 3D design and printing. Working with 3D printing, you have a program for your design, a slicing program and a printing program. You draw what the part is going to be — for example, a box. The design program has tools for

you to build the box. You send that design as an export file and then you use what is called a slicing program. That takes the export file of the box and converts it to information that the printer understands. Loading this print file into the printer enables it to print the item. Liquid resin is poured into a metal vat (on SLA printers), this will be used to create your part. The vat has a clear plastic bottom which enables UV lamps below the vat programmed off/on to create the shape of the part on the bottom of the vat, layer by layer. The layers are perhaps 0.25 of a millimeter—a little thicker than a human hair. There are various other types of 3D printers using different methods to create the part, but usually using similar kinds of resin as the material.”

Hank said, “While working on a model of the USS STODDARD (DD-566) – my first duty station, I got interested in building various larger scale display models and individual pieces of equipment that are found on many USN vessels – gun mounts, fire control directors, deck equipment, things like that. These were great subjects

Community

for utilizing 3D design and printing as the ‘tools’ rather than conventional ship modeling techniques. I do all my own 3D CAD design and printing. I have found that I can produce pretty much a higher level of detail and accuracy myself at this point than I can if I purchased someone else’s mass-produced

products. So, quite a few of the items I’m bringing with me to the Fleet Is In show are those larger scale display pieces.”

Jim said that the show will include 18 exhibitors from four different modeling clubs, or guilds, with World War II warships with scales ranging from 1/700 up to the big 1/96 scale models and post-World War II vessels. Participating artists are from: the New Bern Maritime Modelers Guild, of which Jim and Hank are involved; the Eastern Carolina Plastic Modelers from the Fairfield Harbor community in Craven County; the North Carolina Model Ship Builders from Rocky Mount/Wilson; and the Wilmington Plastic Modelers. The North Carolina Model Warship club in Rocky Mount will hold its annual fun run of 1/96 scale model warships the weekend of Oct. 11-13, at Rocky Mount Lake, Jim

said. “This is a big draw from North Carolina locations and out of state exhibitors,” Jim said. “It’s an exciting time to watch the big boys play! Charles Lamm, from that guild, will be showing the USS Rochester, CA 124 Heavy Cruiser, that served in the Viet Nam War (scale 1/96).”

Mark Prectel, will be showing his model of the Battleship Arizona (scale 1/200) that was sunk at Pearl Harbor on December 7, while Ryan Chinn, will be showing the Japanese Battleship Musashi, sister ship of the Yamamoto (scale 1/200). Both are members of the Wilmington Plastic Modelers, Jeff Maples is bringing his model of the USS Virginia, SSN 774 Nuclear Submarine (scale 1/700), while Rodney Huyett, is bringing his Japanese I-19 World Sar II Submarine (scale 1/350). Both are members of the Eastern Carolina Plastic Modelers Tour the battleship and plan to check out these model ships these artists have painstakingly created — they are preserving history, honoring our military and sharing their passion with us. The Fleet Is In show is free with admission to the ship and will run from 8 am to 5 pm on Saturday, Oct. 19, and from 8 am to 2 pm on Sunday, Oct. 20.

BIG SMILES BIG SMILES

Community Cape Fear Radio

Have You Discovered Local Internet Radio?

STORY AND PHOTO BY JEFFREY STITES

Looking for an alternative to AM/FM radio, subscription satellite radio, or listening to your own playlist on a streaming channel? Would you be interested in a “radio station” that was free to listen to like regular radio, conveniently available on any web connected device like a streaming service, and locally produced and broadcast? What if it had real, live people playing a huge variety of music? And local news and events coverage? Cape Fear Radio might just be the answer you’re looking for.

Cape Fear Radio is an internet radio station based in The State Port Pilot building that began “broadcasting” this past June. It’s a 501(c)3 nonprofit that sells adverting spots and pledges to return any profits made over the cost of operating the station to the community. Cape Fear Radio is internet based and easily available through a number of channels — an app, through services like Alexa and Google, Bluetooth-enabled car radios, or simply through a desktop or laptop computer.

Cape Fear Radio plays primarily music, chosen by its growing list of “presenters.” One of the stations founders,

Chris Cadman, ran a community-based radio station in England, and said he prefers “presenter” to the American “DJ” term. In any case, no matter your musical taste, you’re likely to find something to enjoy on Cape Fear Radio. Tuning in for just an hour or so while writing this, I heard Motown, 80s pop, bluegrass, modern rock, and some songs from artists I’d never heard of before and whose genre I really couldn’t place. It’s fun chance to expand your musical horizons.

If you were at the Southport waterfront during the 4th of July Festival, you likely heard Cape Fear Radio as they broadcast live for the first time from the Waterfront Stage throughout the Festival. They seemed to be having a great time, so I checked in with Russ Yarrow to see how he thought his first live event went and what’s been going on with the station in it’s first few months.

Overall, how would you describe the reception of Cape Fear Radio from the community?

The reception has been great. People are downloading our app and listening hours are increasing steadily. Anecdotally, we’re getting great feedback from our listeners to the music, the local news and advertising, and all of the other features we’re presenting.

Did you get feedback during your live spots at the festival?

We had a blast at the 4th of July Festival, from our parade float to our live broadcasts. Southport’s 4th of July Committee, which makes the whole festival happen, was excited to add this new element to the celebration and we look forward to returning next year — as well as doing live spots at other large events throughout the year.

What has been the biggest change since your launch?

The biggest change is our team. We’ve gone from a group of six people to a team of more than two dozen dedicated people, including 16 presenters bringing listeners a wide selection of great music, from rock and country to blues, pop and a few surprises. Their passion for music and radio is inspiring.

Did anything surprise you?

We’ve been pleasantly surprised by how well advertisers have responded. Well-known businesses like Dosher Memorial Hospital and Margaret Rudd & Associates signed on very quickly and many others have followed. One big incentive for advertisers is the fact that Cape Fear Radio is reinvesting all of our profits above operating costs to local nonprofits in Southeast Brunswick County. Together, we’re reinvesting in stronger communities.

What’s been the biggest challenge so far? How are you addressing it?

Well, there are always challenges with technology and as an internet radio station, we’ve had a few kinks to straighten out. But now our technology platform is performing great, 24/7.

What’s proven the most popular way to access CFR, if you can tell?

By far, downloading our app on the Apple Store. On the app, you can play Cape Fear Radio directly from your phone or tablet, stream it through the CarPlay function in your car, which is available on most models after 2016, or play it through an Alexa speaker or any speaker with a Bluetooth connection. The second most popular access point is directly through the player on our website, capefearradio.com. We are working on expanding access points for listening, including Sonos and Google. Stay tuned.

Have you added any new regular shows?

Lots. In addition to our anchor shows, like the Cape Fear Breakfast Show and Good Morning Cape Fear, we’ve added cool new offerings like Tracks Less Traveled, Jazz and More, Musical Crossroads, Vinyl Days and others. Our presenters are the creators of these shows and their imaginations know no bounds!

What are your goals for the immediate future?

Our goals haven’t changed. We want to entertain, inform, educate and delight our audience and, through our Community Reinvestment Initiative, make our communities stronger and more resilient.

Road

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SUNDAY OCTOBER 13, 2024 2:00 P.M.

NC

Community

Intercultural Festival

Enjoy Crafts, Food and Entertainment

CONTRIBUTED BY MARI-LOU WONG-CHONG

CHAIRMAN

BRUNSWICK COUNTY INTERCULTURAL FESTIVAL

The Brunswick Arts Council and the Brunswick County Intercultural Festival invite you to join us at the 17th Brunswick County Intercultural Festival on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 11 am to 4 pm at the Riverwalk Park, 580 River Rd SE in Belville. This event is free to attend!

The Brunswick County Intercultural Festival is committed to celebrating cultural diversity in all its aspects while honoring the cultural history of Brunswick County itself. This fun, cross-cultural education event presents a vast culturally enriching and entertaining experience for people of all ages.

Festival-goers will have the opportunity to learn more about the different cultures that live side by side within our county. The festival is packed with numerous performing artists, children’s activities, cultural displays, ethnic food vendors  and much more.

geared to introduce kids to cultures from different countries.

The Brunswick County Intercultural Festival Entertainment Stage showcases some of the best ethnic performers of our region. The Entertainment Stage will take festival-goers through an exciting journey to different cultures with its array of artists dressed in authentic traditional costumes who will entertain you with their traditional and contemporary music, dance, and visual art forms.

We strive to foster an atmosphere that promotes inclusion and this year’s entertainment promises to be even more diverse than ever before.

Once again, we will have artistic works from our school arts students

Come join the excitement of the International Village. In addition to displaying Brunswick County’s heritage, this year the International Village has new, exciting countries, displaying cultural information from the African Continent, South America, Asia, and Europe. Many countries and cultures will be represented. We will have the very popular activities for all ages “Passport to Culture” mostly

who will showcase their thoughts on multiculturalism with their entries in the Poster Art Contest. Winners will be acknowledged on the Center stage.

Other surprises round out the event, including a professional performance to round up the program— the not-to-be-missed  Grupo Folklorico!

Come and let us share together something to take our minds out of life’s challenges. Take a “time out,” share our love for each other, get to know our neighbors in this great, loving community of ours. And don’t forget to bring the kids!

We are seeking volunteers to help make 2024 another successful event. Find us on Facebook, or at our website: www.bcifestival.org Stop in and see our large selection of wines! 602A N. Howe Street Southport, NC (910) 454-0633

Enjoy a taste or a glass of wine when you are in midtown Southport

We give discounts on purchases of 6 or more bottles @uncorked by the sea FOLLOW US

Sunfish Regatta

Join The Race Around Oak Island

STORY BY JEFFREY STITES

Sailing a Sunfish all the way around Oak Island sounds like a “Hey y’all, watch this!” idea, but the Around Oak Island Regatta is actually a long-running tradition making its return on Saturday, Oct. 12 after a five-year hiatus.

Oak Island is 14 miles long and about a mile wide, making this regatta a more than 28-mile run, and it isn’t easy. John Bates, Rear Commodore of the Cape Fear Yacht Club and one of the event’s organizers, said the event started about 20 years ago and that, depending on the weather, they get enough finishers to award a first, second and third place. “But we’ll have more than that finish,” he said hopefully.

“I’ve done it four times and completed it twice,” Bates said. “Once I beached on Yaupon or Caswell Beach and once I had to turn back. I think the first timeI sailed it, it took me 12 hours and 45 minutes to complete the course and I had someone offer me a lift when I could see the finish line. Ok, well I don’t want a lift right now.”

the tide,” he explained. “When the race starts, you have to catch a tide that rides you out of the Cape Fear River, and then you have to get to the Lockwood Folly Inlet by the time the tide’s flooding in. If you don’t make those two marks, you’re in trouble.”

The race will begin and end at the Safe Harbor Marina at South Harbour and head down the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) to the Cape Fear River, where racers will head out to the Atlantic and turn west, re-entering the ICW via the Lockwood Folly Inlet and heading back to Safe Harbor.

“We’ve typically run the race in a clockwise lap, so we make two right turns, one at the Atlantic and one at Lockwood Folly. We have run it in a counter clockwise fashion, and that hasn’t gone as well for us,” said Bates.

According to the Cape Fear Yacht Club, the record time is 4 hours 57 minutes and 25 seconds, set by Glenn Walker. “It’s a 28-mile race and a Sunfish doing really well might do five knots,” Bates said. “That’s bookin’!”

If you’re looking to give the Regatta a try, Bates has some advice. “Make sure you rig your boat well, and be hydrated before you go.”

Racers won’t be all alone out there, Bates said. “There are people that are kind enough to give us beverages and such on the water, and we’re trying to set up places where we’ll have safety boats stationed. And there are people on their docks on the ICW rooting you on.”

“It’s funny in that you have to catch

and participants helping us, you know?”

According to the Cape Fear Yacht Club, the schedule for the race is as follows:

FRIDAY

“Pre-Game”

5:30-8:30 pm Check In at Cape Fear Yacht Club - receive T-shirt, laminated chart, sailing instructions. Enjoy cold beverages, heavy appetizers and let the trash talking begin!

SATURDAY

“RACE DAY”

7:30-8 am Late Check-In at Cape Fear Yacht Club

8 am Skipper’s Meeting at Beach/Dutchman’s Creek Park

9 am Warning Signal - The warning signal

will sound at roughly 9 am. The start and finish line will be in the vicinity of Safe Harbor Marina. A laminated navigation chart will be provided at registration.

4 pm - Afterparty and awards at Cape Fear Yacht Club

Find registration information at cfyc@ capefearyachtclub.org. Racers need not be members of either yacht club to participate.

“My wife is helping me manage this in the background and we’re trying to make this into really a fun Regatta,” Bates said. But has he registered himself this year?

“I haven’t registered yet because I don’t have the gumption to sit on a Sunfish for 10 hours,” Bates said.

If you’d like to cheer on the sailors, join one of the Watch Parties at American Fish, Oak Island Pier or St. James Marina.

Bates said people are already registering for the race, and this year Cape Fear Yacht Club is partnering with the Southport Yacht Club. “So the Cape Fear Yacht Club and the Southport Yacht Club are working together to pull this off. That’s really going to be invaluable to have that extra bunch of eyes

Showcase

October First Friday

Friday Fun At Franklin Square Gallery

STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

During the First Friday event on Oct. 4, from 5-7 pm at Franklin Square Gallery, two special demonstrations will highlight unusual applications of the art process.

Deb Voso, a multi-media artist, will demonstrate acrylic pouring. Such innovative techniques as dirty pour, flip cup, and swiping are included in this approach to producing art.

Carol Kidd demonstrates her love of working with textiles as she paints on silk. This technique, using permanent dyes as well as unexpected elements such as salt and sugar, is steam-treated to set the dyes and enhance the color. The resulting wearable art is the perfect finish for a stylish outfit.

Franklin Square Gallery is located at 130 E. West Street in Southport, adjacent to Franklin Square Park. It is open 10-5 Monday through Saturday. Entry is free, and all art is for sale. For further information, visit the Gallery, visit franklinsquaregallery.com.

Programs are supported by the Brunswick Arts Council and North Carolina Arts Council.

352-2809

319-8592

452-2793

Rodney Axsom (910) 523-0568

Connie Kisling (336) 254-6053

Jessica Sawyer (910) 367-2332

Tom Bailey (252) 269-2745

Christine Luciano (704) 363-7866

Joe Southern (336) 804-2121

Tiffany Baker (919) 842-2399

Kathy MacNish (919)

Karen Wirzulis (910)

Seth Bohrer (910) 612-2803

Jonathan Mclaughlin (910) 269-8200

Lynda Young (919)

Bill Easley (910) 279-6539

Glenn Paul Mcvicker (336) 804-0131

Kris Beasley (910) 231-6204

Karen Edwards (910) 294-2263

Steve Minton (336) 508-6754

Amy Lynn Boltz (910) 880-2696

BJ Ellender (336) 407-1040

Howard Mullendore (336) 262-4788

Ceilidh Creech (910) 553-4073

Marcia Erwin (919) 345-9295

Doug Oldham (910) 448-1872

John Dosher (910) 448-0536

Pam Katz (203) 671-6043

Pat Proctor (910) 523-0087

SusanGoins (757) 679-5070

Brenda King (910) 279-4591

Brooke Rudd (910) 512-1361

Kay Jolliff (910) 523-0624

Tami Knecht (253) 380-1527

Bob Lewis (703) 409-0397

Rosanne Matheson (516) 819-2066

Stephen Mills (910) 232-2595

ElviraGilbert (910) 619-4087

Donna Smith (828) 829-2129

Tim Wendt (980) 225-4990

Danny Ross (910) 457-5258

AmyGereb (336) 543-0220

It’s US Open Time

49th US Open King Mackerel Tournament

STORY BY KAREN SPHAR, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, SOUTHPORT-OAK ISLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The 46th Annual U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament is coming up on Oct. 3-5 at Brunswick County’s Dutchman Creek Park. The U.S. Open is one of the largest king mackerel tournaments on the East Coast and part of the SKA (Southern Kingfish Association) Tournament Trail. In 2023, the tournament attracted 558 boats and paid out more than $410,000. The Tournament has an all-cash guaranteed prize structure that is not based on participation numbers. It pays 55 places in its primary prize category including $25,000 for the largest king mackerel. There are also 40 sponsors who add supplementary cash prizes.

Three notable prizes include the Daily Aggregate Weight Prizes, Senior Angler and Junior Angler Awards. The Daily Aggregate Weight Prizes are sponsored by Sea/Tow and Dosher Memorial Hospital and Junior Angler Awards are sponsored by Coastal Pediatric Dentistry and Novant Health. Each day of the tournament, a $1,000 Aggregate Prize will be given to the boat that catches the most poundage from combining the weights from two or three fish. The Junior Angler Aggregate prizes are daily and total $1,000 while the overall senior aggregate is a two-day total with a $500 award.

A few changes and additions have been made by the Tournament Board of Direc-

2023 Tournament Winner

$92, 820 in winnings

Tripple J– 43.45 pounds

Captain Joe Matthews, Deanne Matthews, Joey Matthews

QUICK DETAILS

tors for the 2024 tournament. The tournament is moving to a “lines in the water” format and away from physical checkouts. On Saturday the entertainment and awards ceremony have been relocated to the deck at Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill to give it more of a festive atmosphere, and PaperFin will be at the tournament on Friday and Saturday to make ink-free fish prints for entrants weighing in fish.

Food Court – The tournament Food Court will be open on Thursday, from 12-7 pm and Friday from 12-5 pm, featuring Dutch Girl Dogs (hot dogs, chips, drinks) and Saturday from 11-6 pm featuring Wallace Catering (Burgers, BBQ, sausage/ peppers/onions, fried and grilled chicken sandwich, Calabash style fried shrimp or fish and shrimp and grits).

Sponsor Showcase — Visit the Grand Patron Sponsor Showcase at Dutchman Creek Park October 3-5. Grand Patron sponsors BEMC, Better Beach Rentals, Builders FirstSource, Dutchman Creek Bait & Tackle, Garmin, Hamilton Realty eXp Realty, Novant Health, Mocean Construction, SKA, TotalEnergies, LLC, and SeaTow and will be on hand talking about their products and services during the tournament.

Registration – Early Bird Registration –Online, postmarked or at Chamber’s Welcome Center by midnight on Friday, Sept. 13. Online Registration – Available until 11 pm on Oct. 1. Onsite Registration – October 3 from 10 am - 9 pm at Dutchman Creek Park (4750 Fish Factory Road).

Packet Pickup – All registrants must come to Packet Pickup at Dutchman Creek Park between 10 am and 9 pm on Thursday,

46th Annual U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament One of the Largest King Mackerel Tournaments on East Coast An event of the Southport Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce

Oct. 3 - Registration 10am-9pm Dutchman Creek Park, 4750 Fish Factory Road, Oak Island 4:00pm-7:00pm Entertainment – The Doorsman In Person & Virtual Captain’s Meeting – 7 pm www.usopenkmtlive.com

Oct. 4 & Oct. 5 – Fishing

Spectators Welcome Dutchman Creek Park, 4750 Fish Factory Road Live Streaming Offloading & Weigh-In 2:00pm-scales close www.usopenkmtlive.com

Oct. 5 –5 pm – 8 pm

Entertainment –Awards Ceremony Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill, 4750 Fish Factory Road, In Person & Virtual – 8 pm www.usopenkmtlive.com

Chamber News

Oct. 3. The Doorsmen, veteran rockers keeping it funky, will perform at the park from 4-7 pm. The Captain’s Meeting will be held in person and virtually on Thursday, Oct. 3 at 7 pm at Dutchman Creek Park or on www.usopenkmtlive.com It is strongly advised that all captains tune in or attend this meeting, as any rule changes or necessary clarifications will be announced at the meeting.

Weigh ins – Watch the tournament participants weigh their catch in person at Dutchman Creek or online. PointClickFish.com will stream offloading dock and weigh-ins at the scales LIVE from the tournament during peak weigh-ins on Friday from 2-5 pm and Saturday from 2-4 pm. You can pick up the link to the live feed at http://www.usopenkmtlive. com/.

Merchandise - The tournament merchandise is very popular and is available online at www.sptokimerchandise.com and in person Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm at the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center through Oct. 1 . The tournament will sell merchandise at the tournament headquarters (Dutchman Creek

Park) Oct. 3-5 or until it sells out.

The Awards Ceremony will be held in person starting at 8 pm on Oct. 5 on the deck at Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill, 4907 Fish Factory Road. There will be live music on the deck beginning at 5 pm. Tournament details are available at www. usopenkmt.com, or for a brochure contact the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce, 4433 Long Beach Road, SE, Southport, NC 28461, or at 910-457-5787, 800-457-6964 or e-mail events@southport-oakisland.com.

Southport’s Exclusive Home

Brackish Jeweley

Handmade in Charleston, South Carolina from feathers and other natural materials

Each piece comes with a Lifetime Warranty

Stump Hill Farms

Stop By For Fall Fun For The Entire Family

STORY LOUISE SHEFFIELD-BACCARNY, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Covid…now known as the other “C” word that no one wants to hear, talk about or relive but is used as a marker in time. Remember life before Covid? During lockdown? What about after the world was hesitantly opened back up? Four years ago we were all in the middle of a nightmare but the Hardee family was trying to decide if it was the right time to begin their dream. With masks, sanitizer galore and many prayers, the answer was yes to move forward and open Stump Hill Farms that Fall. With a spacious, 3 acre outdoor venue, the family knew it was time to open their doors to the public. The farm would offer a safe area for kids to run, play and explore, and a place for friends and family to gather, relax and enjoy nature. Stump Hill wasn’t just what the Hardee’s needed, Stump Hill was what the community needed.

Stump Hill is located just minutes off NC 17 on Ash Little River Road in the south end of Brunswick County. After farming the tract of land for many years, the 5th generation has transformed the property into quite the adventure park and is open seasonally for

good, old fashioned family fun.

The main building on the farm, or the “packhouse” as the Hardees refer to it, doesn’t just house the ticket counter and the entrance to the farm, it’s a building full of vintage farm tools, antiques and nostalgic mementos of the way life used to be. A large, open porch extends off the back of the packhouse offering visitors a great place to “sit a spell” in their rocking chairs. A variety of ice cold, old timey, glass bottle drinks are available for purchase and most parents and grandparents love the idea of sharing a Nehi with the kids for the first time.

The farm also offers a wide variety of games and activities for all ages such as gaga ball, soccer pool, corn hole, tic-tac-toe, duck races, a corn pit, 80 foot pipe slide, jumping pillow, lassos, critter cart, swings, a slide house and a few barn yard friends including “Shay” the mini horse.

The Hardees encourage visitors to “unplug” for a few hours to make the experience more enjoyable, in fact, the only time you may even think to pull your phone out would be to snap a few fun pictures in front of the murals painted by local artist, Bess Taylor.

Stump Hill will be open this fall season every Saturday now through Oct. 26 from 10 am-6 pm. General admission is $10 per person and kids 2 and under are free. This admission price will also include an approximately 30-minute, half-mile hayride to the pumpkin patch where you can pick a pumpkin to take home! Grandparents Day will be Oct. 5 and each Grandparent will get in free with the purchase of a child’s admission. Gem mining is offered for an additional fee as well as a food truck, Sunset Slush. Katie’s Homemade Ice Cream straight from Heritage Fresh Market in Supply will be served on site. A mini corn maze is new for this year and a fresh batch of hats and shirts will be ready for opening day. Stump Hill will end their 4th season on Oct. 30 with a free community Trunkor-Treat hosted by Beulah Baptist Church.

Aside from their regular farm days and hours, Stump Hill is available for parties and field trips. Educational stations about North Carolina’s four major crops of soy beans, cotton, corn and sweet potatoes, a bee and pollination station and antique farm equipment make for a great learning experience. Covered shelters with tables are a great place to picnic or party! Feel free to email stumphillfarmsnc@gmail.

Biz Feature

com for questions about booking.

Events are weather permitting so please monitor Stump Hill Farms on social media for the most accurate information and details about upcoming

events and weather. Don’t forget to wear appropriate clothing and shoes, maybe even slide on your boots! Stump Hill is a real farm after all but dust, dirt and hay make for a great day!

October 4th-6th

Friday, Oct 4th we will have three local authors signing their books J. Peter Hoyer, Karen Whalen & Barbara Dullaghan

Double Cherry Pie

Community

Free Veteran Dentistry

Coastal Cosmetic Dentistry Freedom Day

STORY CONTRIBUTED BY ASHELY PATE

Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry will once again host a Freedom Day event in support of our military. On Wednesday October 9, Drs. Aaron Wilharm, Darren Harrington, Matt Miller, Greg Hohl, Mark Dobransky, Courtney Strubin, Timothy Hoover, and their staff will provide free dental care for active military, their families and veterans by appointment at the Bolivia and Oak Island locations. Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry will provide a free cleaning, filling, or extraction. Services are by appointment only. Registration is open now by calling 910-253-5615.

Dr. Aaron shared that “our practice is collectively grateful to all that are currently serving, have served and their families. We support you and we are honored to be able to provide these services year after year as a small

way to say thank you.”

Businesses across the United States will join in Freedom Day USA, a National Thank You Movement for the members of our military and their immediate families, along with Veterans.  After all, they have missed birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and more. Military family members have constant worry for their loved ones’ safety and make daily sacrifices that most Americans cannot imagine. This is an opportunity to say thank you.

To learn more about Freedom Day Events or to sign your business up as a participant, contact Ashley Pate at Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry 910-2535615, visit www.FreedomDayUSA.com  or the event’s Facebook page at http:// www.facebook.com/FreedomDayUsa.  Ashley Pate

Offering a wide selection of imported and domestic beers on tap and Over 90 varieties of wiskey served by the friendliest staff in town!

Southport’s Premier Rum Bar! Featuring a menu of Caribbean favorites and a curated selection of healthy and light eating options perfectly paired with our rum cocktails.

FISHING REPORT

October Fishing Report

Fall--The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK

September was truly memorable, marked by not one, but two unique storms. The first unleashed historic rainfall inland, sending an extraordinary amount of fresh water pouring into the ocean for two straight weeks. Just as conditions were improving and the fish began biting again, another unnamed storm hit, bringing more record-breaking rain to Southport, washing out roads, and sending yet more fresh water into the ocean. The silver lining? This rain brought ocean temperatures back to where they should be for the season, and like clockwork, the fishing has bounced back as well.

October is arguably the best month for fishing in our area, from inshore waters all the way out to the Gulf Stream. If you’re new to the area or haven’t fished here yet, now’s the time to get out there. Whether you take your own boat or book one of the many local charters that have openings now that the busy season has passed, don’t miss out—this is prime fishing time!

INSHORE

October brings unbeatable action for speckled trout and red drums. To target trout, focus on the main feeder creeks along the river and Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). Look for areas with visible current rips, as these are prime spots for holding fish. If you find an oyster rock channeling water, that’s even better. Cast a popping cork rigged with live or artificial shrimp and let the current do the work. The docks along the Southport waterfront are also productive, with many having large rocks underneath that create a breakwater where trout can stack up and ambush passing bait. For red drum in the backwaters, fish creek mouths during rising or falling tides. At high tide, watch for drum tailing in the grass flats. Casting a jig with a paddle tail in front of those tailing reds is a surefire way to get a bite. With the mullet run winding down by mid-month, artificials will become the most convenient bait option.

NEARSHORE

Spanish mackerel and bluefish will be abundant along the beaches, feeding on the finger mullet migrating south from the river to the ocean. Trolling clarkspoons in shallow water, around 10-15 feet, is a

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

surefire way to get in on the action. Large schools of pogies will be scattered along the coastline, from the mouth of the Cape Fear down to Lockwood Folly Inlet, attracting big bull red drum and king mackerel. Slow trolling pogies near the beach will trigger king mackerel bites. Focus on the tide lines, working both the clean and dirty sides, as fish often prefer one side. Areas like Yaupon Reef and just offshore of the piers are especially productive.

tackle to shorten the fight time and increase the chances of survival for these breeding fish, helping to keep the fishery healthy.

OFFSHORE

While most anglers will be chasing king mackerel along the beach, don’t overlook the offshore action this time of year. Spots like Lighthouse Rocks, the Old Cape Fear Sea Buoy, Shark Hole, and Horseshoe are teeming with fish. When fishing 7-20 miles offshore, frozen cigar minnows are just as effective, if not more so, than live bait. In fact, I’ve often had better luck with dead bait in these areas. Though king mackerel is a popular target, fall offers many other offshore opportunities. Black sea bass are moving into shallower waters, and plenty of keepers can be caught on ledges and rock

To target bull reds, cast a live menhaden (aka pogie) on a heavy Carolina rig into the bait balls and let it sink to the bottom—these predators are feeding there, and you’re bound to get bites. Yaupon Reef and the Hot Hole are great spots for bull reds as well. Remember to use heavier

FISHING REPORT

piles within the 15 to 20-mile range, especially around Shark Hole and Christina’s Ledge. If you venture farther offshore, in the 80 to100-ft depths, you’ll find triggerfish and vermilion snapper in good numbers.

GULF STREAM

October is also prime time to head out to the Gulf Stream in search of big wahoo, blackfin tuna, and sailfish. From September to November, the fishing for these species off our coast is world-class. Trolling ballyhoo on islanders and skirted rigs with wire leaders will yield plenty of action from wahoo, with many fish in the 40–60-pound range, and even a few 100-pounders caught each season. Blackfin tunas are also making a strong showing. When you spot tuna marks on ledges and rockpiles, use a junior cedar plug or tuna feather with a 35 to 40-ft, 60-pound fluorocarbon leader — the tuna won’t resist. For those chasing sailfish, now is your time. Look for them around the color change where the water shifts from blue green to deep blue. Pulling dredges, squid chain teasers, and small ballyhoo on circle hooks will get the bite but be prepared for some gear loss to

the toothy critters in the area. If you can sense the excitement in my words, it’s for good reason. As I’ve mentioned, this is the prime time to fish our coast. Don’t miss out—get out there and experience it for yourself. You won’t regret it! Tight lines – Captain Steele.

Keeping Fit

Getting In The Reps

Routines Make Our Lives More Than Routine

BY VICTOR FERNANDES

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

Routines. We all have them, whether we realize it or not. Often, we don’t because they are so ingrained in our lives. We do them without even thinking about them.

But we should think about them.

Routines are what we fall back on when we stumble, when we struggle, when we aren’t consistently doing what we should to better ourselves each day.

When we have a strong, healthy routine in place that allows us to take care of ourselves, and in turn those around us, we simply can fall back on that routine.

For example…

Roughly this time last year, life was anything but routine, as COVID-19 ran roughshod through our home, and Tropical Storm Idalia barreled through town.

My wife, Shelly, and I were both impacted by COVID (unfortunately, it was round two for her), while our youngest son, Zach, didn’t feel well despite not testing positive for the virus. Shelly and I took turns spending a couple days in bed and not eating much for several days, while Zach missed some time from school.

Meanwhile, our home gym sat empty for a week as we slowly but surely recovered from what ailed us. And if you know me, the Vic-nasium rarely sits empty for that long (and yes, that is the name of my home gym).

Yet the following week, even as my energy levels remained lower than usual, I was back at it, back in my routine as well as could be expected at the time.

I took time for myself and my family in the morning, followed by a workout, checking in on clients, and doing all I could to spread the word on the importance of quality health and fitness – when you’re healthy, and especially when you’re ill.

I didn’t have time to think about it. I didn’t have to wonder what to do now, and what to do next. I simply followed my routine, which made struggling to get back to full strength less of a challenge. There wasn’t a whole lot of thought involved, which was good while I attempted to escape the daily case of brain fog.

I knew what I had to do, and I did it.

I knew it would work well for me that week, the following week and beyond, even after being physically out of commission the prior week, because that routine has consistently worked well for me many times before.

So, how do we build a healthy routine?

We already have routines in your life. Consider the habits, good and bad, we turn to instinctively in our daily lives to accomplish what we need to do every day.

Consider the steps we take to complete tasks day after day. Those habits and steps have become routines we turn to every day, often without fail.

Don’t like the routines you use? Change your habits to change those routines.

Make conscious decisions to complete tasks in different ways, then continue to complete those tasks in the same manner

day after day. Habits are intentional, whether they’ve grown to be instinctive or not.

Which takes me to a task I periodically do, and one all my clients do to help develop a consistent routine that’s efficient and effective – a schedule study.

We record everything we do, from the moment we wake up to the time we head to bed, during the course of a week. It’s a tedious process for sure, but it’s truly enlightening. It shows us how truly efficient – or not – we are with our time, as well as when during the day we are most productive, among other helpful data.

That data provides the answers to improve our routine, and in turn our habits. I

CALL FOR SPECIALS!

put myself through a schedule study three to four times a year, and I have discovered how easy it is to fall back into old routines and bad habits if we’re not intentionally keeping both top of mind.

Every plan in life works, until it doesn’t. At that point, we have a choice – either keep the same unproductive routine and habits and lament we’re not getting the results we want from life or put changes into place that will us productive again.

Now, I would like to hear from you. What routines do you currently follow, and how do they impact your life, positively or negatively? How have your routines played a role in the habits that have developed over time?

Send me an email to info@fernandesfit. com with your thoughts, and I would be happy to help you develop routines that work better for you.

If you want to learn more about me and Fernandes Fit, call me at 814-504-7774, send me an email, or head to fernandesfit. com for more information.

New BCC Program

Funeral Services Degree Via Fayetteville

STORY CONTRIBUTED

Brunswick Community College (BCC) has announced a new partnership with Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) to offer a Funeral Services Program beginning in Fall 2025. This program, a first of its kind in our community, will provide a unique educational opportunity for students interested in funeral service careers. BCC President Gene Smith and FTCC President Mark A. Sorrells signed the agreement during a ceremony at BCC, attended by leadership, faculty, and staff from both colleges.

Under this unique agreement, BCC students can earn a two-year associate degree in Funeral Service Education. The program will begin with the first year of general education courses offered at BCC. In the second year, students will complete specialized funeral service classes fully online through Fayetteville Technical Community College. To meet the program’s practical requirements, students will participate in hands-on labs at FTCC or gain work-based learning experience at local funeral homes in Brunswick County. This

hands-on experience is a crucial part of the program, providing students with real-world skills and preparing them for their future careers.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education that meets the evolving needs of our communities,” said President Gene Smith. “We are proud to work with FTCC to deliver a program that equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this vital profession.”

The program’s comprehensive curriculum cov-

o r gotocityofsouthportcom/event s FORMOREINFORMATIONSCANHERE

October InSouthport

Operation Medicine Cabinet

Concert Series

Dosher Memorial Hospital Wednesday, October 2

Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn Sunday, October 6

Fire Headquarters Tuesday, October 8 Dinner with a Firefighter

Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn Friday, October 11 & 18 Movies on the Lawn

Taylor Field Park Saturday, October 19 Howl-O-Ween Bowser

SFD Catfish Fry

Classic Car and Truck Show

SFD Trunk or Treat

Fire Headquarters Friday, October 25

Downtown Southport Saturday, October 26

Fire Headquarters Thursday, October 31

Critical Local Battles

October Brunswick Civil War Roundtable

Closing Down the Kingdom: The Wilmington Campaign” is the title of popular local historian Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle, Jr.’s presentation for the Tuesday, Oct. 1 meeting of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table. 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. The visitor fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues.

Chris will give a presentation on Union military operations to capture, as well as Confederate efforts to defend, Wilmington, NC, the South’s last major Atlantic port stronghold in late 1864. He will discuss the battles for Fort Fisher during Christmas 1864 and mid-January 1865, which turned out to be the largest U.S. Navy bombardments of the Civil War. He will then examine why the Federals were so interested in taking not just Fort Fisher, but also Wilmington, in the winter of 1865.

At the First Battle of Fort Fisher, the Union tried to capture the fort guarding Wilmington. It lasted from Dec. 23–27, 1864. The Union navy first attempted to detonate a ship filled with powder in order to demolish the fort’s walls, but this failed. The navy then launched a two-day bombardment to demolish the fort and compel surrender. On the second day, the Union army started landing troops to begin the siege, but got word that enemy reinforcements were approaching, and with worsening weather conditions, the operation was aborted.

The second Battle of Fort Fisher was a

successful assault by the Union Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. The fort was sometimes referred to as the “Gibraltar of the South” because it was the last stronghold of the Confederacy. It had tremendous strategic value during the war, providing a port for blockade runners supplying the Army of Northern Virginia.

Wilmington was not captured by Union forces until Feb. 22, 1865, approximately one month after the fall of Fort Fisher. Located just 30 miles from the mouth of the Cape Fear River, it was among the Confederacy’s more important cities with a population of 9,553, nearly the same size as Atlanta, Georgia. Its port traded cotton and tobacco in exchange for foreign goods such as munitions, clothing and foodstuffs. These cargoes arrived via blockade runners which had to avoid the Union’s imposed maritime barricade. Cargoes were then transferred to railroad cars and sent from the city throughout the Confederacy. By capturing Wilming-

ton, and with the port closed, the Union blockade was complete, and it gave General Sherman’s forces a base of supply and a supply route to the sea.

These are some of the highlights and facts surrounding the closing months of the war. There is no better fact checker and storyteller about this period than historian Chris Fonvielle, professor emeritus in the Department of History at UNCW. He is a native of Wilmington, with a lifelong interest in the American Civil War, North Carolina, and Cape Fear history. His in-depth research focuses on coastal operations and defenses, and blockade running in southeastern North Car-

olina during the Civil War. He has written and published books and articles including “The Wilmington Campaign: Last Rays of Departing Hope;” “Wilmington and the Lower Cape Fear: An Illustrated History;” and “Fort Fisher 1865: The Photographs of T.H. O’Sullivan.”

For more information about the meeting, the online registration process, how to attend meetings remotely or how to become a member, email president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com or call him at 404-229-9425. The group’s Facebook page also has additional information, news, and updates.

DR.

MANRIQUE-KINIRY HAS ANSWERS!

questions about women's health issues? Join us on October 29th for Dosher's signature women's health event

RSVP to 910-457-3900 or scan the code Tuesday October 29 6pm-7pm Indian Trail Meeting Hall 113 W. Moore St., Southport

BCWRT Ladies Forum

A Visit From An Old Smithville Tavern Owner

(EDITOR’S NOTE: The 10/14 date is postponed due to flood damage. More information coming. Check website for updates. Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com)

The Civil War Ladies’ Forum, sponsored by the Brunswick Civil War Round Table, eagerly anticipates its upcoming annual meeting on Monday, Oct. 14, featuring guest speaker Mary Duffy, Smithville tavern owner. Actually, Mary is Liz Fuller, president of the Southport Historical Society, who will portray Mary in her Civil War period dress. The meeting will be held in Murrow Hall at Trinity United Methodist Church in Southport, across from the U.S. Post Office.

Mary Duffy was a widow who was well known in what was then Smithville during the 1800s. In fact, her only grandson fought for the Confederacy during the war. Since Smithville was a rather small fishing village on the Cape Fear River at the time, you can only imagine

the stories she has to tell on any number of subjects. To make a long story short, she has a wealth of stories, and some little known secrets, about life’s trials and tribulations during the War of Southern Independence. During those war years, she and her friends experienced nu-

Community

merous frustrations, hardships, and importantly, the unknown. With all these pent up facts and emotions, she is eager to share with her audience, the spirit, resolve, and determination these women of Smithville experienced.

Liz is a popular local historian who is a frequent speaker at local historical and civic organizations on a wide variety of topics relating to Southport’s history. She is known for her ability to foster a more intimate connection to the past by highlighting the lives of everyday people within the context of larger historical events, the Civil War era being an important one. With her vast knowledge, she frequently writes guest columns and articles on Southport history in The State Port Pilot. In addition, she is the author of the recently published book, “Southport’s Secret Suffragist: The

Story

of Anna Alena Clemons.”

In addition, the evening’s program will also feature Carolee Morris. She has a keen interest in his tory, including graduate studies as well as oratorical and speaking con tests. She will be reading a selec tion from Mark Twain’s “Tom Saw yer.” The selected story, its time frame, subject matter, and Twain’s inimitable humor will be a comple ment to Liz Fuller’s presentation.

The program will take place from 6-8 pm and is a free event for all women members of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table. There is a $5 fee for guests, which can be ap plied toward the $25 annual mem bership dues to the Round Table. For more information, or to make a reservation, please contact us at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com.

Fiss

Lee Ann Walker Sally Stidham

Valerie Earman Karen Saunders

Joey Kronenwetter

Katherine Wooten Mary Carneiro Tanya Broussard

Kim Moss

Annabelle Pivarnik

Shea Williams

Golf Tips

Nicole’s Golf Notes

Get into the Game: Tips for New Golfers

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.

Have you ever wanted to try golf but you’re not sure how to get started? Have you dabbled in the game in the past and now you really want to move forward from renewed interest, recent retirement or just because? Help is on the way! Starting a new activity is full of excitement, nervousness, anticipation, a desire to fit in with those already involved, along with a variety of other emotions and expectations. Here is advice I provide to those looking to try golf or advance their budding interests in Part 1 of my three-part series on getting into the game.

Clubs and Equipment

Getting some decent clubs is important. A golfer can have up to 14 clubs maximum, but I recommend fewer to help with the pace of play and decision making. Many starter sets these days may have 7-10 clubs within the set, or golfers can find a good deal on a full set and take some out of play for now and add back in later when those yardages needed, after learning the basics. Some new golfers inherit clubs from a spouse or friend that are too heavy/ light or long/short and this can be extremely detrimental in one’s success and possible long-term future in the game. It’s like saying “Wear these shoes a few sizes too big until you grow into them or learn to make them work for you,” but that extra weight and length makes it cumbersome, creates flatter heaving swings and awkward swing fundamentals to move the ill-fit clubs. No fun = No future golfer. Clubs should be based on one’s height (not gender or age, like junior or senior). Advanced golfers also get fitted for additional aspects like lie angle, shaft flexes, grip sizes, club head weight, club head type and much more.

As a newbie to the game, a smaller but good starter set is fine as long as it matches your height and speed capabilities (light flex great for most

veloped a line of clubs for women that are great with a kick-stand bag, head covers and 10 clubs…perfect! A lot of my newbie students have these…(For those reading this far, I can also provide a 10 percent off code for online orders, so contact me!)

I also like Tour Edge Lady Edge sets (the turquoise clubs also can be ordered at 1” longer than their standard length, good for women 5’6”-5’9”), also in standard left-handed sets and also with a kick stand bag). Their ‘petite’ set isn’t as short as I’d like but I love their standard clubs, so any women shorter than 5’3” I’d put in the Ultralights for Women 60” set.

tion sprays, dew, dirty golf ball to clean after marking on the putting green before putting)

• Tees (the Martini tees are easy to tee up)

• Ball marker (I love the magnetic ones I can clip onto my hat visor for easy access)

• Hair scrunchie/band for long hair

• Permanent marker (to identify your golf ball with your personal marking on both sides of the ball)

• Hydration and energy snack

• First aid kit and other medical needs

• Umbrella

women but some can produce high speeds from their sports backgrounds and those shafts might be too whippy and create havoc in the ball flight). Just because a set of clubs say ‘Ladies’ or ‘Senior’ doesn’t mean it will fit. It’s a poor label. A woman can be 4’10” or 5’11”. Most ‘ladies’ clubs will be a good fit for someone 5’3”-5’5”… but what happens to those who are shorter or taller? Or a man can be 5’6” or 6’3” while most sets for men are geared towards 5’10”. Or one 79-year old man may generate faster speed than another 79-year old man. How can people of different heights and arm lengths be expected to play the same generic equipment (or even from the same set of stereotyped teeing grounds – that’s a whole other topic)? It would be like telling a person to go into the generic shoe department and just pick out a pair of men’s or women’s shoes…first question is, What size?

For women, I love recommending Ultralights for Women that come (right-handed only) in two sizes (5’0”5’3” or 5’3”-5’6”) with other options within their company for even shorter than 5’0”. They’re produced by US Kids Golf who figured out a lot of moms, grandmothers, aunts and women are getting into the game and most club choices are ill-suited, so they de-

One can also pursue a PING or other company custom fitting if taller or stronger than the standard club built for women. I’ve played PING since age 14 when my coach sold me a used set at a very low cost and I love them…it’s a higher financial investment but some of the best clubs within the fitting world. They can make just the ones you’d like and you can fill in others later. Other companies sell sets and fittings you can also explore, as not everyone has the same preferences and can try Cobra, Tour Edge, Callaway, Taylor Made…I’ve just enjoyed getting students into the Ultralights and the Lady Edge sets.

For men, most companies have box sets that can serve as a good starter set. Type in Starter Sets for men and you’ll see names like Wilson, Tour Edge, Callaway, Cobra, Precise, RAM pop up…again, PING and other fitted clubs are an option to get just the ones you’d like. You can visit local courses, your club if a member, or a fitting store (like Loggerhead in Wilmington) to see what options they have for someone starting out in the game.

At minimum, I’d recommend at least a putter, pitching wedge (a 10 iron, if it has a number on it), 7 or 8 iron, a hybrid (like a 5 or around 26 degree loft) and a driving club (could be a driver around 12-14 degrees of loft or a 5 wood/5 metal at around 20 degrees of loft).

Don’t forget…

• Towel (mud, golf course applica-

• Bug spray (I use sun sleeves that double as bug protection) and sunscreen/sun protection

• Golf balls (for newbies, find good deals on ones that give you distance or a mix of distance and accuracy…check at the golf shop based on which brands they carry or go online to a company’s ball fitting chart like Titleist. My Dad worked in New Bedford next to the Acushnet ball-making factories for Titleist and I grew up a Titleist kid and visited the factory once, great tour!)

• Green repair tool (looks like a little two-prong fork although I just use my tee now, less stuff in my pocket poking holes and escaping into the wash machine!)

Art Beat

Joseph Bardani

Remembering A Good Friend Of The Arts

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CARLA EDSTROM

On August 18, Southport’s artist and musician community was deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden loss of our friend Joseph Bardani. Joseph was an incredible artist, a beloved painting instructor, and a musician who loved playing guitar. He founded The Bardani Gallery, a collective of 15 talented artists in Southport, and hosted open mic nights on Wednesday evenings, providing a space for others to come together, play their instruments, and make new friends because he just liked to play.

I first met Joseph while he was still teaching at Brunswick Community College as a painting instructor. He was a great supporter of musicians and artists alike. I had the pleasure of writing this article about him in 2020. He will be greatly missed but forever remembered.

“ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE, A LITTLE PAINT AND A CANVAS.”-Joseph.

Born on the Italian Riviera in Imperia, Italy, in 1956, local artist and Brunswick Community College painting instructor Joseph Bardani Gargagliano has loved all art forms. As young children, Joseph and his brother Franco lived in an orphanage until 1960, when they were adopted by loving parents Frank and Caroline in New York City. “I have no idea when the love of art entered my soul, but I know it was at a very early age,” he

said. “I believe it was in those very early years that I fell in love with art, and art fell in love with me.”

As a child in NYC in his uncle Tony’s graphic design studio on Madison Avenue, Joseph’s love of Art grew exponentially as he was constantly surrounded by Art and creating. “I would play with oil pastels and pencils. I was in a wonderland of all the beautiful Art and design. My other Uncle, Joe, worked as an art director in the same design studio. He also taught me a few things about the art world, as well as photography and copy,” he said. “I always painted and drew sketches as a young boy but when I entered Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama on an art scholarship, I still knew very little about what Art really was. Even though I majored in Art, and I was exposed to it all the time.”

Being constantly surround-

ed by artists gave Joseph a step ahead in learning his craft. “I was often told by artists that were in their 60’s and 70’s that it took a long time for their art to be “mature” and for them to be content with their work. I never knew what that meant, but I do now,” said Joseph. “It was during this time I realized how powerful Art and photography were, and I knew they were in my blood. I studied under Dr. Belle of Huntingdon College, and we had many discussions on what “art” was and was not. She once told me that I had to “sing the blues,” and when the time came, I would know. It took 30 years for that to happen.”

With experience using different paint mediums, oil paint is Joseph’s chosen medium. “I feel that oil is so much more workable and offers many more possibilities in color purity,” he said. “Oil paint also gives us knowledge of how the masters mixed their colors and worked the canvas. Sometimes I mix cold wax in my oils. Over the years, I have perfected and learned the Palette Knife technique. My palettes or knives as I call them range from 12 inches down to 1/4 inch in diameter. I love the impasto effect,” he said. This is where the paint is laid on the canvas in thick layers, and the knife or brush strokes are heavy, such as Van Gogh’s Starry Night. Although Joseph loves to do large-scale paintings, he focuses on a small scale. “The work I am doing now is a collection of marshes and local landscapes from this area that I paint in what I call Modern Abstract Impressionism. Very bold colors and heavy impasto style with cold wax and brushwork as well.”

Always striving for originality and pushing the limits, Joseph’s style is unique and easily recognizable. “Most of my paintings come to me in a dream. The only paintings I copy are commis-

sion paintings that a client wants me to paint, usually a pastoral scene, or an abstract. The other would be a Plein Aire painting. All other paintings are made from my dreams. Either way, I take full liberty with my own style,” he said. “The most challenging aspect of my work is trying to do something “new” each time I paint. Getting new ideas and pushing myself to new limits. It is easy to copy somebody’s ideas and paintings. The trick is to do something so new, so different, that you feel you have accomplished going into areas nobody, at least to your knowledge, has done.”

Joseph has devoted his life to Art and teaching others at Brunswick Community College at the Southport Center. “I make a living painting and selling paintings and commission work. I also supplement that income by teaching at the college and private lessons as well as workshops. My legacy will be my Art and I hope it gives pleasure to those who see it for as long as it will be seen.”

‘Austrian & German’ Chef’s Tasting and Wine Dinner Thursday October 24th, 2024 5:00 pm and 6:30 Seatings Take some time to Ghoul About; Don’t Forget Halloween Dinner on 10-31-24!

Wine List and Innovative Cocktails with Fresh Ingredients and Tailormade Special Drinks just for you!

•

• Enjoy Wednesday Bar Nights & Musical Soirées. Your Favorite Cocktails and Bar Drinks, Tapas and Entrée Specials, and discounts will continue!

• Explore our Cuisine and Find Out Why We Won: “BEST BISTRO” ( People’s Choice Awards 2024) and: “MOST CREATIVE MENU”, ( Southport Maggie Award 2024.)

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”

FALL SAVINGS

SPOTTINGS

South Brunswick High School teacher and coach Jeff Register recently received the Kiwanis Award for Excellence in Community Service at a ceremony at the school.

A Career and Technical Education teacher and beloved golf coach, Register was selected for the positive impact he has on students and for his consistent demonstration of the values associated with the award: character, citizenship, service, and community accomplishments. Affectionately known as “Reg,” teachers and students note that his frequent whistling reflects his cheerful outlook and his joy for life, setting an encouraging example for students and his peers.

“His students not only look up to him, but also consider him a friend,” said Kiwanis Club President Jeff Mount. “One parent of a SBHS golf team member said Jeff mentors his golfers both on and off the course, and develops such a relationship with them that they stay in contact with him long after they graduate. He treats the kids with respect and as a result they respond positively to him.”

Register, who also has served for nearly two decades in prison ministries, was a residential building contractor in the Carolinas for more than 30 years. He said he turned to education so he could teach students an important life skill, impart his wisdom about running a business, and share his life experiences so students could learn the importance of maintaining a job.

A Brunswick County resident since 1993, his three children all graduated from South Brunswick High School.

On hand to honor Register at the award ceremony were SBHS Principal Brad Lewis; Register’s wife Crystal; Kiwanis Club members Jeff Mount, Jack Addicks, Hogan Disbrow and John Ertlschweiger; and several students.

Dosher Memorial Hospital has begun construction of the new 8,000 square foot Emergency Department, which will stand on the corner of E. 9th and N. Howe Streets. The new Emergency Department will be more than double the size of the existing ED, will feature more beds and improved workflow, and enhances the types and level of care received through the use of innovative treatment tools such as vertical chairs for lower acuity patients. Completion of the building is expected by the end of 2025.

Said Lynda Stanley, Dosher President and CEO, “Our healthcare teams work tirelessly to improve the lives of our patients. We need to ensure that we have the infrastructure to do this important work as our community grows. We are excited to get this project underway, as it represents our commitment to contributing to the health and wellbeing of our patients for years to come.”

The building of the new Emergency Department is the most significant project in Phase 1 of Dosher’s 7-year Master Facility Plan. All capital improvement projects included in Phase 1 were paid for through community tax dollars, leaving Dosher in a strong financial position.

Community members who would like to follow the progress of the building of the Emergency Department can connect to a webcam at the construction site. Go to Dosher.org/LIVE to view the video stream or go to Dosher.org/MFP to find updates on construction and other news relevant to Master Facility Plan expansions.

Waking Up A Classic--1929 Ford Tri-Motor

Photos By Jeffrey Stites

CALENDAR

October

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

OCT 1

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

Eric J. Wittenberg, award-winning Civil War historian and author of 21 books, will bring to life the dramatic campaign of Union Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman’s “March to the Sea” in his presentation entitled, “Sherman’s Carolinas Campaign.” Sherman’s tactics devastated the South. The destruction of civilian property is still debated by historians today, although it undeniably played a crucial role in the Union’s final victory. Eric will state the facts and doesn’t take sides. The group meets at Hatch Auditorium, 100 Caswell Beach Road (Fort Caswell) starting at 6:15 pm, and the program starts at 7 pm. All are welcome, and the cost is $10 for non-members, which can go toward the annual membership fee of $25.

OCT 4-5

US Open King Mackerel Tournament

The Granddaddy of Mackerel Tournaments includes more than just fishing. Landlubbers can get in on the fun, with food trucks and music throughout the tournament at Dutchman Creek Park, 4750 Fish Factory Road. The event concludes with the All Starz Band performing 5-8 pm at Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill Deck, 4907 Fish Factory Road; the awards ceremony is at 8 pm. See story in this issue for more details, and visit https://www.usopenkmt.com/schedule for the full schedule.

OCT 5

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.

OCT 5

Barn and Beach Designs Fall Festival

Come welcome the fall season with food, arts and crafts and vendors from 9 am - 4 pm at Barn and Beach Designs, 4874 Old Long Beach Road

OCT 7 AND OCT 8

Dinner With a Firefighter

Get to know the Southport Fire Department crew with a firehouse chili dinner, 5-6 pm at the Caswell Beach Substation, 1100 Caswell Beach Road.

OCT 11

National Night Out — Oak Island

The Oak Island Police Department hosts lots of area agencies, such as the US Coast Guard, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, all branches of the military, and more. There will be helicopters and fire trucks to explore, free Ident-AKid kits, food, music, bounce houses, and much more. This free event is 5:308:30 pm at the Middleton Park fields (corner of SE 46th and Dolphin Drive).

OCT 12

Around Oak Island Sunfish Regatta

The Cape Fear and Southport Yacht Clubs team up to host this 28-mile around Oak Island sunfish regatta. Sailors must register at https://www.regattanetwork.com/event/28422#_home by Oct 11. The regatta begins and ends at Safe Haven Marina at South Harbour. See our article in this issues for locations spectators plan to gather.

OCT 14 -- NEW DATE TBD

Brunswick Civil War Round Table Ladies Forum (just before we went to press, we learned this will be rescheduled)

Smithville tavern owner Mary Duffy will talk about life in the 1800s, particularly during the Civil War. Duffy will be portrayed by Liz Fuller, one of our favorite local historians and president of the Southport Historical Society. Fuller will present at the Brunswick Civil War Round Table’s Ladies Forum, along with Carolee Morris, who will read selections from Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.” The forum is 6-8 pm at Southport Trinity United Methodist Church, 209 E. Nash St. There is a $5 entry fee for guests, but that can be applied to the $25 annual dues.

OCT 19

Port Brunswick Day

The road to Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson was closed as of press time, but we wanted to include this in case the site is reopened or an alternate location is found. Living historians will be interpreting various colonial trades and aspects of colonial life including candle making, blacksmithing, woodworking and more. Kids will have an opportunity to experience colonial toys and games. The event is planned for 10 am to 4 pm at the site, 8884 Saint Philip Road SE, Winnabow (off NC 133 — IF the road to the site is open).

OCT 19

Howl-O-Ween Bowser Bash

This fall festival features a parade with pets in costume, 11 am to 1 pm at Taylor Field, 409 E. Nash St. in Southport. The parade is at 12 noon. There is a $5 donation to attend, and proceeds benefit Paws-Ability.

OCT 19

Big Toy Day — Kiwanis

The Southport-Oak Island Kiwanis host this popular annual event, 10 am to 3 pm at the Cape Fear Regional Jetport (4015 Airport Road SE, Oak Island mainland). There will be all sorts of trucks and equipment for children to explore. There will also be free flights provided by members of the Oak Island chapter of the EAA for children ages 8-17 (first come, first-served, and written permission from a parent or guardian who is present with the child is required). The event is free, but a $10 donation is suggested.

OCT 19

Kids Spooky Color Run

Kids will wear Halloween costumes they can run in, or Halloween t-shirts or white shirts, and the parents and adults cheering them on are invited to do the same. The race starts at 2 pm, and will go around the Recreation Center (3003 E. Oak Island Drive). The cost is $5 for residents.

OCT 19

Fall Festival and Haunted Trail — Boiling Spring Lakes

This festival has it all — fortune telling, games, photo ops, a haunted trail

and a costume contest. The festival is 4-8 pm at the Community Center, 1 Leeds Road. There will be hot dogs and hamburgers available for purchase, and the costume contest is at 6:30 pm.

OCT 21

Maritime Art Show Opens

Franklin Square Gallery hosts this maritime art show, featuring works all about sea life and anything coastal. The show will run through Nov 2 — the Southport Wooden Boast Show. The Gallery is open 10 am to 5 pm Monday though Saturday.

OCT 21

Haunted Gingerbread House Contest

Who says gingerbread can only be festive, and not spooky? Oak Island is holding a Haunted Gingerbread House contest; drop off day is Oct 21 between 10 am and 2 pm at the Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive. Judging will take place on Oct 24. Houses will need to be picked up Oct 29 by 2 pm. The houses will be displayed for a week so the community can check out the spooky masterpieces. Contact Emily Kincer at ekincer@oakIslandnc.gov or 910-278-5518 for more information.

OCT 26

Classic Cars ’n Rock ’n Roll

Enjoy this show with classic cars and fancy newer models; registration starts at 8:30 am and awards are at 3 pm. This free event is in downtown Southport, along Howe Street to Bay Street to Atlantic Avenue, and the Back Porch Rockers will perform. The non-profit Cape Fear Cruisers club will use proceeds from registration fees to benefit local charities; there will be a 50/50 raffle as well.

OCT 26

Cinebay Film Festival

This film festival focuses on curating family-friendly films in different genres. The festival is 5-9:30 pm at the Virginia Williamson Events Center at Brunswick Community College, 150 College Road NE, Bolivia. This year’s festival theme is a 50s Sock Hop, so plan to dress your part. Visit https://www.cinebay.org/ events/cinebay-film-festival-2024 to buy tickets.

OCT 31

Trunk-or-Treat — Southport

The Southport Fire Department welcomes trick-or-treaters to the station at 1011 N. Howe St., starting at 5 pm.

OCT 31

Trunk-or-Treat — Oak Island

Children can collect treats from decorated vehicles parked at the Oak Island Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive, 7-9 pm. Call 910-278-5518 or email ekincer@oakIslandnc.gov if you want to volunteer.

NOV 2

Wooden Boat Show — Southport

See all sizes of beautiful wooden boats and show for nautical goods in the picturesque Southport Yacht Basin area. The festival is 10 am to 4 pm.

Open Air Markets

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.

Ongoing Events

Friends of the Library Southport & Oak Island

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

Barbee Library, 8200 E. Oak Island Drive: Call 910-278-4283 for details on children’s story time and other programs.

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

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

NC Maritime Museums - Southport

204 E. Moore St.

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

Historic Bike Tours in Southport

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

Oak Island Recreation Department

Join the Striders Club at various locations and dates/times to get out and about with a group or try your hand at art with the Paintbrush Academy. There are book clubs, kayak tours in the Davis Canal, surf fishing lessons, and much more. Visit https://parksrec.egov. basgov.com/oakislandnc for details on programs.

Franklin Square Art Gallery

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

First Friday Gallery Walk

5-7 pm in Southport at participating galleries, including Franklin Square Art GAllery, Ricky evans and Lantana’s; 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.

Battleship North Carolina

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

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

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

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site

8884 St. Philip’s Rd. SE, Winnabow (Note: Site is closed until the entrnace road can be fixed) 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. Touch tank feedings are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 11 am.

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)

Oct 3 — Double Cherry Pie

Oct 10 — Rev & The Flying Flamingos

Oct 17 — Double Cherry Pie

Oct 24 — Double Cherry Pie

Live & Local

Oak Island

Stroll around the open-air market from 4-8 pm, with concerts from 6-8 pm, all across the street from the ocean in the Middleton Park fields (corner of SE 46th and Dolphin Drive).

Oct 5 — The British Invaders

Oct 12 — The 52nd Street Band

Oct 19 — Dave’s Not Home Oct 26 — The Cruise Brothers Band.

Movie Night — Oak Island

Bring a chair or blanket and non-alcoholic drinks; pre-registration is required.

Oct 22 — “The Nightmare Before Christmas”

Southport Concert Series — Sundays on the Lawn

Enjoy great music with an even better view on the Fort Johnston Garrison lawn (Bay Street)

Oct 6 — The Stone Cold Blues Band

Movies on the Lawn 6:45ish/dusk

Garrison lawn, 230 E. Bay St., Southport

Oct 11 — “A Walk to Remember” — 6:45ish/dusk (lots of this movie was filmed in an around Southport)

Oct 18 — Coco — 6:30ish/dusk

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 te-

CALENDAR

quila 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.

Don’t

1215 PALATKA PLACE SE, BOLIVIA, NC | 3 BR, 2 BA, 2,005 SF | Built in 2022 and located in the desirable subdivision of Palmetto Creek, this house boasts 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with a Luxury Upgraded Trim Package. The large living area,17x19, has a gas fireplace with many built-ins, tray ceiling, wainscoting, open floor plan for family or entertainment. Step out onto a 15x12 screened lanai and a 15x12 patio with a gas line for your grill. The Kitchen has an abundance of soft close cabinets, a large island with granite countertops, gas stove, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a separate 11x12 dining area with tray ceiling. The HOA has lots of amenities including a pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, 2 pickleball courts and fitness room. Currently listed at $430,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Kathy MacNish at (919) 352-2809 for more information or schedule a showing.

4874 BEECH TREE DRIVE SE, SOUTHPORT, NC | 4 BR, 2 BA, 1,967 SF | Charming single-level home located in Carolina Place featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, and a spacious Bonus Room located over the garage. The home includes a separate laundry room, two-car garage and convenient walk-in attic storage. The interior boasts a spacious open floor plan with a separate dining area, highlighted by LVP flooring. A cozy fireplace with gas logs and crown molding in the dining room adds to its appeal. The fenced in backyard and firepit provides privacy for enjoying grilling and just relaxing with family and/ or guests. Carolina Place offers a

MARKETPLACE

community pool with restrooms, dry boat and RV storage, and a community dock with a nature trail. Currently listed at $374,900 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Lynda Young at (919) 452-2793 for more information or to schedule a showing.

121 NW 17TH STREET, OAK ISLAND, NC | 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,347 SF | Built by Buff Builders in 2016 on the quiet west side of the island, it is turnkey and mostly furnished. Great floorplan in this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with a screened porch and a double door storage room underneath the house. Beautiful kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. The backyard is mostly fenced with a sprinkler system and privacy panels under the house if you want to create an outdoor living area. An outdoor shower helps keep the sand out of the house. Washer, Dryer and Refrigerator remain with the home. Solar panels were added in 2022. Currently listed at $635,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Karen Wirzulis at (910) 319-8592 for more information or schedule a showing.

1993 STYRONS LANDING ROAD. $649,900 Water Access Community!! New Construction with Water Views Galore only 2 1/2 miles from the Holden Beach Bridge! Wake up every morning in your marsh front home to views of the Sea Aire Canal AND the Intracoastal Waterway! Introducing Sea Spray Cottage, a classic take on the 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1813 Sq. Ft. home featuring clean lines and enhanced finishes designed to capture the panoramic marsh and water views of Holden Beach. Call Karen Saunders, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 713-0021.

BONNER BUSSELLS DRIVE. 3 bed | 2 bath | $689,000. Distinguished single-owner ranchstyle home situated in the tranquil neighborhood of Smithville Woods. This exceptional property embodies comfortable living, offering an impressive array of amenities, including an expansive deck, a dedicated grilling pavilion, an inviting outdoor fire-pit area, and a conditioned 2-car detached garage with utility sink and ample storage room. This

3521 SANDERLING DRIVE SE, SOUTHPORT, NC | 4 BR, 3 BA, 2,200 SF | Located in St James on the Members Golf Course - overlooking the green of the 15th hole. This meticulously maintained updated 4-bedroom 3 full bath home with hardwood floors, wainscoting and crown molding is waiting for you. One level living with an open concept living room with vaulted ceilings and a gas fireplace with custom built -in shelves on each side. There are 4 sliding/compressed doors that open to your four season EZ Breeze Carolina Room with floor to ceiling windows to capture that beautiful view-sunsets and all! The kitchen has upscale Kitchen Aid stainless steel appliances, gas stove, granite on countertops and island, subway tile and lots of storage. There’s also an eat-in kitchen with plenty of windows to take in that view! Currently listed at $799,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Pam Katz at (203) 671-6043 for more information or schedule a showing.

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.

305 FIRE FLY LANE. .14 AC

Homesite | $84,900. This beautiful lot sits on the quaint ‘tree lined’’ street in the Cottages of Prices Creek. If you are looking for a neighborhood with a community pool, clubhouse with a fitness center, then this is the perfect spot for you. Only minutes away from the Fort Fisher ferry & just a golf cart ride to downtown Southport, where one can enjoy fine dining, shopping, or stroll the waterfront parks and watch the ships go by. This lot is being sold as part of a lot/home package with home to be built by: CL Smith Construction & we’re ready to turn your dream home into a reality. Choose from our range of cottage plans or work with us to create a custom design that’s uniquely yours. Don’t miss out on this opportunity - call us today to start your journey to a coastal lifestyle! Call Sarah Smith, Southport Realty, Inc., (910) 443-8000, for more information.

657 WILD ROSE WAY. .40 AC

Homesite | $140,000. Just released by the developer! This beautiful, wooded lot in Jonas Creek is located in one of Southport’s most sought-after neighborhoods near the Historic downtown waterfront. The .40-acre lot is the last lot available in PH 2 and is perfectly situated next to a pocket park that allows you to take advantage of the extra green space. This lot is to be sold as a ‘’Lot/Home Package’’ with a custom home to be built by C.L. Smith Construction. The builder has created a home plan that was specially designed for this unique lot and is ready to share with an interested buyer. With its close proximity to downtown Southport one can enjoy shopping, fine dining or just stroll along the beautiful waterfront while watching the ships go by. If you’re an avid boater, this neighborhood is walking distance to the marina; and is the ideal place to build your dream home! Give Sarah Smith, Southport Realty, Inc., a call today, (910) 443-8000, so you can build your dream cottage on the coast!.

1002

DINING GUIDE

Find Something Sure To Please Everyone

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

SEAFOOD SPECIALTY

M FISHY FISHY CAFE

106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 910-457-1881

www.fishyfishycafe.com

A sophisticated take on the dockside seafood café, Fishy Fishy serves up plates like Buffalo shrimp, Cajun grouper bites, and Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.

M FRYING PAN

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

M ISLAND WAY RESTAURANT

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

www.islandwayres.com

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

KOKO CABANA

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

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

MOJO’S ON THE HARBOR

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

www.mojoontheharbor.com

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

MOORE STREET OYSTER BAR

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

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

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

www.provisioncompany.com

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

RUSTY HOOKS DOCKSIDE GRILL

4907 Fish Factory Rd Southport, (910) 477-6616

www.rustyhooksdockside.com

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

Pizza and a sandwich at Dry Street Pub & Pizza

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

SWAIN SEAFOOD SHACK

5119 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, Phone: (910) 448-5056

Good food for good people. Locally caught seafood, homemade soups and salad bar.

MODERN AMERICAN

BACK TO SHUCKERS

6220 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-278-4944

Casual dining in a tropical setting, with Caribbean inspired seafood as well as steaks, chicken, pork and salads. (Opening in May)

EDGEWATER 122

122 Yacht Basin Dr. Southport, (910) 677-6130

Locally Sourced, Hand Crafted Food and Drink served waterfront at the Old Yacht Basin.

OLIVER’S ON THE CAPE FEAR

101 West Bay Street, Southport 910-477-9299 oliversonthecapefear.com

Fine dining on the Cape Fear—where exquisite southern cuisine meets the salubrious dishes. We also offer great burgers, steaks, and other southern favorites.

M MR. P’S BISTRO

309 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-0801 www.mrpsbistro.com

Fine low-country cuisine, from crab-stuffed fish du jour to crab cakes and prime rib.

SHAGGER JACKS

8004 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 910-933-4103

www.shaggerjacksoki.com

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

SOUTHERN, A GATHERING PLACE

105 E. Brown St, Southport 910-931-0786

Elevated Southern Cuisine

SALT 64

6404 E Oak Island Dr, Oak ISland 910-933-1019

Serving coastal cuisine in an upscale atmosphere

SWAIN’S CUT SEAFOOD

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

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

TRANQUIL HARBOR

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

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

WINE & BEER

GRAPE AND ALE

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

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

SILVER COAST WINERY

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

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

SOUTHPORT TAP & CELLAR

827 N. Howe St., Southport

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

THE WINE RACK

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

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

UNCORKED BY THE SEA

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

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

Royal James

109 E. Moore St., Southport

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

BARBECUE

M SOUTHPORT SMOKE HOUSE

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

www.southportsmokehouse.com

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

M BAR-B-QUE HOUSE

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

www.bestbbqonthebeach.com

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

CAFES, DELIS & GRILLS

49th STREET BAR AND GRILL

4901 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

Indoor and outside seating will a full menu.

BLUE COW GRILLE

108 Moore Street, Southport 910-363-4402

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

BOB’S DOGS

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

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

THE BREAK

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

Breakfast and lunch with an island flair

CAROLINA COASTAL CAFE

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

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

CHASER’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL

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

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

ERIC’S GRILLE

1671 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-9024

Offers old fashioned, hand patted hamburgers, plus bbq, hot dogs, chili cheese fries and breakfast sandwiches and platters.

FAT ANDY’S BURGERS

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

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

FIXIN’S OKI

8300 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island (910) 933-1009

Southern inspired brunch menu served thoughout the day

JERSEY MIKES

5130 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport 910-477-6261

Subs and sandwiches, fresh salads.

CAFE KOA

302 N Howe St, Southport, 910-363-4206

Gourmet Sandwich Shop & Market With Yummy Goods & Gifts! Soups, Salads & Sandwiches Served Daily!

LITTLE BIT’S GRILL

5902 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island 910-278-6430

A classic burger joint, onion rings and other sides. Breakfast is served, pancakes and bacon.

LAZY TURTLE BAR & GRILL

601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island, 910-278-7725

Oceanfront dining and entertainment that is easy on the wallet and hard to forget. Tiki bar, arcade with two pool tables and plenty of seating to host your work, friend or family fun!

LOCAL’S FAMILY DINER

832 N. Howe St., Southport 910-457-0444 www.localsfamilydiner.com

With a warm and friendly atmosphere, Local’s Family Diner serves breakfast all day long and a seafood and entrée menu for lunch and dinner.

LOCO JO’S

602 N. Howe St., #E

Fresh, creative asian and American specialties with wine, beer and a now a fully stocked bar

LONERIDER AT OAK ISLAND

57th Place west, Oak Island

Lonerider Brew-Stillery outlaws bring award winning brews/bourbons and atmosphere

DINING GUIDE

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

MOORE DOGS AND MORE

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

M SOUTHPORT COFFEE CO. AND KITCHEN

130 E. Moore St., Southport, 910-363-4203

Open for breakfast and lunch, specializing in organic and fairtrade coffee as well as gourmet sandwiches crafted with Boar’s Head deli meats.

OAK ISLAND DELI AND PUB

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

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

OAK ISLAND SUBS AND SALADS

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

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

OASIS BAR AND GRILL

8039 River Rd. SE, Southport 910-454-4004

Shrimp in every style, plus sandwiches; try entrées such as scampi and filet mignon.

THE OFFICE COFFEE & WINE BAR

3280 George II HWY (BSL) Southport NC 910-351-8093 www.theofficecoffeeandwinebar.

com

We serve Roast Magazine’s 2016 Roaster of the year, Espresso, Coffee Drinks(Hot, Frozen, Iced) Smoothies, Variety of Red/White Wines & Craft Beer. Also Pastries, Trays, Breakfast and Lunch Wraps.

OLD BRIDGE DINER

132 Country Club Dr., Oak Island 910-250-1184

A casual diner featuring breakfast & lunch, from fluffy omelets to burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. Open 6am - 2pm

THE SAUCY SOUTHERNER

501 N Howe Street, Southport (910) 477-6065

Offering breakfast & lunch with a southern twist. Real Good Feel Good, Food.

SUNSET GRILL

5119 E. Oak Island Dr, 910-933-6137

Mediterranean Cuisine with a Lebanese influence

TROLLY STOP

111 S. Howe St., Southport 910-457-7017

www.trollystophotdogs.com

A staple in NC, Trolly Stop is renowned across the nation for its one of a kind hot dogs.

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ

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

www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com

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

WILDLIFE RESTAURANT & GRILL

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

www.wildlifegrill.webs.com

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

CHINESE

ASIAN TASTE

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 3, 910-457-0988 asiantastesouthportnc.com

Takeout traditional Chinese food, with staples such as lo mein, sesame chicken, and General Tso’s.

SOUTHPORT GOURMET AND SUSHI BAR

1643 N. Howe St, Southport (910) 477-9045

Serving a varietry of home-cokked Asian specialties and featuring a full sushi bar.

TASTE OF CHINA

4956 Long Beach Rd., Southport, 457-1838

Serving Cantonese, Szechuan and Hunanstyle Chinese food.

INTERNATIONAL

M PORTS OF CALL

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

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

ITALIAN

M BELLA CUCINA

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

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

CASTUCCI’S AN ITALIAN JOINT

4332 Long Beach Rd, Southport 910-477-6755

Family Italian restaurant

D’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

2831 Midway Rd Ste 106 (910) 253-8151

Serving Itaiian entrees, pizza and sandwiches.

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

Serving home cooked Itailan specialties in a friendly atmosphere.

M JOSEPH’S ITALIAN BISTRO

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

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

JAPANESE

TENGU JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE 4956 Long Beach Rd. SE, 457-9398

Sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, hibachi, tempura and udon noodles all available.

MEXICAN

DELPHINA CANTINA

10 Marina Wynd, Bald Head Island 910-457-1222 delphinacantina.webs.com

Mexican cuisine with Spanish and Cuban flare, such as Churrasco Cubano and Pescado Especial—both with plantains.

KAI JOE’S

4722 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island Phone: (910) 622-1509

Traditional Mexican dishes and specialties.

SAN FELIPE

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 1, Southport & 4961 Long Beach Rd. SE 910-454-0950

Serving authentic dishes, such as fajitas, enchiladas and chalupas, fresh salsa and margaritas; serves traditional Mexican dishes.

TACO & BURITTO SHACK

3261 Hwy 87, BSL 910-351-0179

SIDE STREAT TAKE OUT

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

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

PIZZERIAS

BAMBINI’S PIZZERIA

1513 N Howe St, Southport 477-9352

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

BEACH ROAD PIZZA AND WINGS

4688 Long Beach Rd, Southport

Pizzas, wings, fries, desserts

DRY STREET PUB AND PIZZA 101 E. Brown St., Southport 457-5994

www.drystreetpubandpizza.com

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

FAMOUS SUBS AND PIZZA

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

Recognized regionally for outstanding gyros, calzones and pizzas.

MO’S WOOD FIRED KITCHEN

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

PIZZA SHACK

6212 E. Oak Island Dr., • 278-6781

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

THE PEPPERONI GRILL

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

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

PEPPERONI GRILL AT THE BEACH

4320 East Beach Drive • 250-1190 www.pepperonigrillnc.com

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

Solar Brewing

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

DOMINO’S (SOUTHPORT)

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

DOMINO’S (OAK ISLAND)

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

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

DINING GUIDE

(910) 363-5072

Asian delicasies for dine-in or take-out

THAI AND VINE

106 SE 58th Street (910) 933-1025

Southeast Asian specialties

BAKERIES/ COFFEE

BALD HEAD COFFEE & TEA HOUSE

3481 George II Hwy (Hwy 87), Boiling Spring Lakes 800-484-8399

Serving coffe and tea drinks along with breakfast sandwiches, croissanta and other goodies. Drive-thru available.

Crossroads Gathering Place

128 Country Club Drive

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

BURNEY’S BAKERY

808 N. Howe St., Southport 454-4222

Known for their light and flaky filled croissants with a sweet sugar glaze, plus more.

ISLAND JO COFFEE ‘N CAFE

7916 E. Oak Island Drive (910) 250-1677

Homemade bagels, breakfast sandwiches, quiche, specialty coffees and sandwiches.

JUMPIN’ JAVA OAK ISLAND

4022 Old Bridge Rd., Southport • 363-4841

We carry a large variety of gluten free/vegan baked goods, as well as homemade coffee cakes and muffins. Delicious and decadent specialty drinks: lattes, mochas, frapps, hot chocolate, Chai teas and more.

PORT CITY JAVA

113 N. Howe Street, Southport 454-0321

www.portcityjava.com

We serve coffees, espresso drinks, fruit smoothies, milkshakes, fresh juices, breakfast and lunch sandwiches and wraps all day. Open year round. Complimentary WiFi. Comfortable inside and outside seating. Coffee catering available.

RUBY’S COFFEEHOUSE AND EATERY

At the Oak Island Pier, 705 Ocean Dr. Oak Island

Serving bagels, croissants, sandwiches, hot dogs and coffee right at the pier.

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E Oak Island Drive

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

lime pie, and carrot cake.

ICE CREAM

CHUCK’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

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

Featuring delicious home made ice cream.

M DAIRY QUEEN

5701 E. Oak Island Dr.,• 278-5371

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

FLAVA’S COFFEE AND ICE CREAM

310 W. Bay St., Southport • 457-5150

Ice Cream at the Yacht Basin

HAVEN

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

LIL & JOHN’S SWEETREAT HOME-

MADE ICE CREAM

6324 East Oak Island Drive.

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

SEASIDE MERMAID

6102 E. Oak Island Drive

Enjoy sweet treats, ice cream and coffee right

next to Mermaid Cove. Outside seating available.

SPIKE’S DAIRY BAR

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

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

THE SCOOP SHOP

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

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

SOUTHPORT SUZIE’S

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

Frozen Yogurt & Desserts; Wine & Beer, Outside seating

SUGAR DADDIES

5119 E. Oak Island Drive

Ice Cream and Dip-n-Dots

TIKI PINEAPPLE WHIPS

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

Dole Whip pineapple frozen treats right at the beach!

TROPICAL TREATS

5811 E. Oak Island Drive

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

INDOCHINE EXPRESS

1131 N. Atlantic Ave, Southport

SIDE STREET BAKERY

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

Locals suggest the cupcakes, lemon bars, key

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R O B E R T C A R R O L L 9 1 0 . 4 6 5 . 2 7 1 7

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