usual, we tried to put a little something in this issue for everyone. For history buffs we have a preview of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table season, we have sneak peaks at some really fun upcoming events you won’t want to miss, and we even have a run-down of local summer fruity cocktails!
And for some of our readers who are long-time residents of Southport or Long Beach, we have a couple of stories that will have you strolling right down Memory Lane. Mike Royal shares his story about a boy searching for a friend who can help him practice baseball, and finding him in an unlikely place. And we feature new Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce President Brooke Rudd-Gaglie who shares what it was like growing up on Oak Island, the changes she’s seen, and why she continues to fall in love with her hometown every day.
STAFF
EDITOR
Jeffrey Stites
editor@southportmag.com
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Lisa P. Stites
lisa@southportmag.com
LEAD DESIGNER
Liz Brinker
lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS
Chuck and Sue Cothran
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
McKenzie Barwick
Carla Edstrom
Patty Langer
Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny
Janet Fortney
Lisa P. Stites
Jeffrey Stites
PHOTOGRAPHER
Jeffrey Stites
PUBLISHER & SALES
Jeffrey Stites
jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741
CONSULTANT
Kris Beasley
PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461
Southport Magazine is published once a month by
Live Oak Media with an extra publication in July for the Southport Fourth of July Festival. The opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of the staff.
Sometimeswe think of story ideas and sometimes they walk right up and bonk us on the head. Listening to Brooke Rudd-Gaglie, Vice President and Broker at Margaret Rudd and Associates, Inc. REALTORS, speak after being sworn in as the 2024-25 President of the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce, we were bonked. Here was a woman who grew up in a town that barely appeared on the map and left for education and some work experience outside the family business, but who always knew she wanted to build her life right here, despite, and because of, how much our community has changed. Brooke loves this town, this community, and it shows through like the beacon atop our lighthouse. We wanted to share her story and her perspective with you — longtime residents, new arrivals, visitors, and those hoping to make this community home one day.
Brooke’s story doesn’t exactly begin on Oak Island, but moves there quickly. “Well technically, I was birthed in Wilmington, New Hanover Regional, came down—well mumsy and dad brought me down, and we lived on Augusta Drive,” she said. “From there, we moved over to— which was not Yaupon Way then it was 47 Oak Island Dr. It was on the tee of the 16th hole.
“My earliest memory, mom and dad had a mutual friend, Jim Bullock, he actually introduced them. Jim was holding me in his arms, and I was being held in his left arm and the kitchen cabinets were behind him and they were like a brown woody cabinet, old ones, and I saw a candy bar and I remember reaching out for it. I think I was two-ish,” Brooke said.
Brooke is a first generation Long Beach, now Oak Island, resident. Her parents, Margaret and Buddy, met in Raleigh but decided to begin building
their life together on the coast.
“Mom was at State and graduated with a degree in Parks and Recreation and Tourism and took the director position for Guilford County, for their Parks and Rec department,” Brooke said. “Now in comes Jim Bullock, the mutual friend. And so Dad was, I believe, either a bouncer or the bartender. So they met and started courting, I think is the term. Well, Mom was a little fancy thing and she said, ‘Buddy my stationary is about to run out. Should I change anything about it when I re-order?’ That’s when people ordered stationary. Dad asked why, aren’t you happy with it? And she said ‘It’s monogrammed, Buddy.’ He asked do you like the monogram, and she said ‘Do I need to make any changes to the monogram initials?’ and then it clicked for him. They came down here on their honeymoon and I don’t think they ever went back.”
As it turned out both Margaret and Buddy had ties to Oak Island. “Purportedly, they came down here on their honeymoon because Mom’s family had a house on 75th and Dad’s family had a house down at the point. And that’s when there’s like 10 people on the island, and they never met the entire time. They never met. Paths never crossed,” Brooke
said.
When they first arrived, Brooke said her parents lived on a houseboat in the Southport Marina, but after her older sister was born, things got a little cramped on the boat, so they moved to a house on the golf course.
“I grew up surfing and we played on the golf course,” Brooke said. “It was amazing, except I don’t think that Willie Calloway enjoyed the fact that the horse got out of our little gated courtyard and was grazing on the fairway.”
Yes, the Rudds kept a pony in their yard at the Oak Island Golf Course. It was a different time.
“So Mom and Dad were really starting the business and so they got a call, and it’s not like we had all the technological advances that we do today, and so their pagers were blowing up,” Brooke said. “Finally, when it came through and they call back, Willie was like ‘You wanna get your horse off the fairway?’”
Brooke said she absolutely loved her community growing up. “I knew that I always loved the area,” she said. “For lack of better words, it’s very special. It has that kindred spirit that kind of sings to
Brooke at the Rudd’s first house
Brooke Rudd-Gaglie poses with the first house she sold
you.
“I can probably can find that book that you order and they say….it’s almost like where will you be in 20 years? I put I would live on the golf course, I would be surfing every day, which I traded in my surfboard for the saddle, and I would take care of the company, which was a little ambitious but I was young and dumb. But I knew what my goal was. I always gravitated back to this area. I love it and still do,” she said.
Brooke went to N.C. State and earned a degree in Parks and Recreation man-
Community
agement, like her mom. She wanted to come right back home and jump into the family real estate business, but her parents had other ideas.
“I said I would like to come and start moving toward getting my license and going in the company,” Brooke said. “My mom said, well you need to go see the world, and as my stomach hit the floor, I said I’m cultured and I have an appreciation for all the things, I would like to come back to work.”
Her parents said that they felts should go out and “explore.”
“At that time I didn’t understand because I was young, and I didn’t understand that it was probably the best advice they could’ve given me, to go and make sure that that’s what I wanted to do. I got myself in a little bit of a snit and went to the general manager’s office for Benchmark, who was who was overseeing Bald Head Island at the time, and said what jobs do you have?” She ended up taking a job with a development company in Lake Tahoe, almost immediately broke her leg skiing, and got put on desk duty.
“I realized I really didn’t want to stay on phone duty, so I reached out to Mom and said I’d like to come back now. If you still want me to see the world, if I may quote you, then I’m going west and back to Hawaii,” she said.
“I came back here by ’98 and I started working at the office and I started as the secretary,” Brooke said. “I worked at the front desk full-time and at night went to night school out at BCC and took my realtors class and then sat for the test, several times. I lost my humor because the second time I missed it by one. I finally got the piece of paper April 30, 1999.
“Mostly I’ve been here since. I went away for a little bit, but boomeranged right on back and I’ve been happy as can be.”
Seeing Oak Island grow up along with herself has left Brooke with a pretty unique perspective.
“Honestly, I remember when most of the roads were dirt,” she said. “I remember when the McDonald’s was being built. I have a vivid memory of when McDonald’s french fries first arrived, and I mean that’s the fries!
“And now, do we have more traffic? Sure. Do we have more of a melting pot where there’s people from different locations, different demographics and all of that? Yeah and it’s great. It’s great,” she said.
“When you have been here for so long and see so many things, you’re fortunate to have watched it. It’s like a caterpillar that goes into the cocoon and morphs into a butterfly. All these different stages, and then each stage, there’s something very special and
(l-r) Brooke, Karen and Ellen Rudd at their Grandma’s NE 75th Street house
Community
unique about it.”
Brooke said she loves sharing our community with others, and helping people find a home here.
“What would it say, and this is just me personally, what would it say as to what kind of person that I would be if not for being willing to share that true unfiltered happiness that I’ve had from this beautiful place my entire life going back to when Jimbo was holding me in his arms.” Brooke said.
Brooke said she looks at tourism as a positive. “It brings the outside in. Oak Island is visited and then goes back to the outside world. So isn’t that what we’re supposed to do? I mean, just being good-natured good people and share and contribute to everybody’s happiness?” she said.
Despite all the changes, Brooke said her home remains the same in important ways.
“The intangible but very notable essence of what the island is will never go away,” she said. “It’ll change, it’ll transform in various ways, and it’ll come back. But isn’t that what everything does? It’s hard sometimes, but on the other hand, it makes me smile really big too. It’s like
seeing your kid grow up You see him from his infancy stage and through all of the transitions and all of the different aspects. I think that we have a responsibility to take care of our area in a balance so that it can continue to hold on to the very things that appealed to so many.”
One of those positive stages has been the growth of business on the island. “You know where you might have one restaurant, you might have one seamstress, or one this or that, now there’s multiple, and there’s room too.”
Brooke said she loves how supportive our locals are of the business community, and she hopes to carry on that support as President of the Chamber.
“We do the events, the networking after hours, the business connections, the different things, and it allows various businesses that maybe wouldn’t have the opportunity to talk between themselves as business owners to connect with each other,” she said. “We provide nutrition, if you will, to our commerce.”
Brooke said she hopes to continue to build the Chamber during her term. “My goal is for the existing members to feel valued and appreciated and to non-members, maybe make them pause for a second look around and say ‘what’s
going on over there, what’s that all about?’ and be just curious enough to come and take a look and to realize all of the different things that the chamber does.”
I asked Brooke what she thought, as a long-time business person, what makes our community a good place for businesses to thrive.
“When you asked me that I instinctively just started to smile,” she said. “People are happy. It’s a great place, and when you’re looking at businesses, you know you’ve got a strong local base, you’ve got visitors coming in and you’ve got family members from out of the area. It’s just got the beach, it’s got the river, it’s got the canal and the golf course. You’ve got the weather. You’re halfway, give or take some mileage, between the tip of the East Coast and the bottom of Florida. Your weather pattern is lovely. You have different elements that make the business world here just a great place. It’s perfect.”
And after all her time here, Brooke doesn’t take anything for granted.
“After work, I go home and put my phone on the charger before I put on my bathing suit and a pair
flops. I grab either Thing One or Thing Two, one of the dogs, and then go down to the beach usually around seven,” she said. “I take a towel, take a dog bowl for water, and go where the tide comes in, where I used to sit with my Dad and my Mom and my grandma and dig down into the sand. I will lay in that water and watch the sun, and I will just be so grateful.”
of flip-
Passing of the Southport-Oak ISland Chamber of Commerce gavel
The 2024-25 Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
At last month’s Busniness After Hours event
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
1:
Thurs., Aug. 8: DOUBLE CHERRY PIE Food Truck: 2 Bros Coastal Cuisine
Thurs., Aug. 15: TODD BEANE Food Truck: Backyard Cookout Dogs
Thurs., Aug. 22: DOUBLE CHERRY PIE Food Truck: Lobster Dogs
Thurs., Aug. 29: NOW CAT Food Truck: 2 Bros Coastal Cuisine
Todd Beane
Community
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 20-team 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/
It’s Summertime at Ports of Call Bistro And the Liv’n is Easy!
With our expanding kitchen talent, look for:
• A broader range of international Specials
• Robust and flavorful specials for each meal service
• An increasing variety of house made desserts
• New core menus by late Summer
Regular Meal Services: Lunch: Tues. thru Sat.: 11:30 am to 2:30 pm Dinner: Tuesday thru Thursday 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm Dinner on Fri. and Sat.: 5:00 pm to Close • Sunday Brunch: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Please call our Main Reservations Line: (910) 457-4544 for Dine-In Seating Reservations and For Take-Out Orders 116 North Howe Street, Historic Downtown Southport Every day is a Tapestry of Fine, Fresh, International
We’re here to Serve You on our Regular Lunch, Brunch and Dinner Schedule!
• Enjoy Our Wednesday Night Jazz Soirées. Your Favorite
• Cocktails and Bar Drinks, Tapas and Entrée Specials, and discounts will continue!
• Fine Lunch and Dinner Tuesdays thru Saturday!
• Sunday is a Special Day for us. Come and Enjoy our Specials
• and Brunch Beverage, a Southport Favorite.
Thank you for voting us: Maggie Award: “Most Creative Menu” People’s Choice Awards: “Best Bistro” and,“Best Martini”
We’ve been working to Serve You since 2011. Thanks for these prior awards:
Community Dinghy Dashing
Cardboard Boats Race At Dutchman Creek
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES
Historically, boats have been made from hollowed-out tree trunks, wooden planks, steel, and now fiberglass. But maybe we’ve overlooked a cheap, plentiful alternative—-cardboard. Why not turn those Amazon boxes into a sleek, comfortable, and maybe even seaworthy vessel? We can all find out the answers to that question at the Third Annual Dutchman Dinghy Dash Cardboard Boat Race on Saturday, Aug. 17 at Dutchman Creek Park, 4750, Fish Factory Road.
The Dutchman Dinghy Dash, sponsored by the Oak Island Police Department and coordinated by Community Resource Officer Matthew Tweedie, challenges teams to design and build “Dutchman Creek Worthy” vessel using cardboard, duct tape, and glue that will successfully carry two passengers approximately 400 feet without sinking.
Teams are made up of individuals, first responders, town departments and local businesses. Registration is available the day of the event or through pre-registration at www.oakislandnc.gov/EVENTS. The entry fee is at least $10 worth of non-perishable goods (canned food, utensils, etc.)
Boat registration runs from 10-11:30 am, with judging for Best In Show and a safety briefing at 11:30 am. The Youth division will race first beginning at noon followed by the Adult division. The Awards Ceremony is scheduled for 2:15, but the time my change based of number of boats entered.
There will be be “Furthest and Fastest” awards for 1st and 2nd place in both adult and youth categories, a Titanic Award for the most dramatic sinking, a Best First responder Award and the Judges Choice for Best in Show. The decision for the Best in show award will be based on which boat has the best name, design and overall most creativity. Buoyancy is not a factor in the “Best in Show” award.
No material such as Styrofoam or rubber flotation devises may be used to provide “buoyancy” or maintain floatation. No sandbags or similar materials may be used for ballast.
Joints and seams may be glued and/or duct taped. Duct tape, contact cement, rubber cement or construction adhesive may be used. No nails or metal or wood fasteners or staples may be used in the construction of the boat. (Small amounts may be used for REMOVABLE decorations only.)
are NOT ALLOWED. Consider “staying dry” as part of the challenge.
Hulls may be painted with “onepart” paint. No epoxy glues, fiberglass resins or “multi-part” varnishes or paints may be used. Tar based substances like roof coatings are not permitted.
Some rules to keep in mind if you pan to enter:
Boats to be built using only corrugated cardboard (none with waterproofing or wax coating, and not bonded to any other material, such as vinyl), glue and duct tape.
You may NOT completely wrap or encase the boat in duct tape.
Oars and Paddles must be made from cardboard also. No cardboard tubes or carpet rolls can be used. Wood, metal, Styrofoam, or other materials that would aid in flotation or make the hull rigid are prohibited. This restriction applies to the keel, transom, ribs, hull, etc.
Where the crew sits CAN NOT be enclosed. Must be able to get in and out of your boat easily.
Surfboard and Raft style designs
No boat will be allowed to leave the starting gate unless: all persons on board are wearing a Personal Floatation Device (PFD), i.e. Life Jacket and shoes; and have their handmade paddles. PARTICIPANTS MUST BRING THEIR OWN LIFE JACKETS AS THEY ARE REQUIRED.
Helmets are required for participants 12 & under / Recommended for all
participants.
If your 2-person crew consists of a child and an adult, you are in the Adult Division.
Youth Division is a 2-person crew ages 12 and younger.
Boats are 2-man vessels. ALL RACE DAY ENTRANTS WILL
Community
BE REQUIRED TO SIGN WAIVERS AT CHECKIN. ANYONE 17 AND YOUNGER MUST HAVE A PARENT PRESENT TO SIGN THEIR WAIVER AT THAT TIME. (If you pre-register, parents must submit packets for all entries 17 and under, with signed waivers.)
“The biggest thing is for everyone to register through the Rec department’s webpage, make sure they sign the wavers and follow the rules. We want this to be fun, safe and exciting,” said Officer Tweedie. “I would love to see what people can come up with, only using CARDBOARD boxes and duct tape!”
Spectators are welcome, and encouraged.
Fall Art Show 2024
Brunswick Arts Council Invites Submissions
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES
Whetheryou’re a newcomer or a long-time resident, the Brunswick Arts Council invites you to share what inspires you to create at the 2024 Brunswick Arts Council Fall Art Show. Works will be on display at Southport’s Franklin Square Gallery, 130 East West Street, from September 16 through September 28.
The show is open to two categories: 1) Adult artists: 18 and older who are residents of Brunswick County or who are paid members of the Art League of Leland, Associated Artists of Southport, Oak Island Art Guild, Waterway Art Association, Coastal Carolina Camera Club or the Brunswick Arts Council; and 2) Brunswick County Teens (rising 9th grade to just age 18) are eligible to enter work for Teen Category. Teens older than 18 should enter in Adult
The application and entry fee (Adults $40, Teens $10) must be received by Saturday, Sept. 7. Application fees are non-refundable. Space is limited, so entering early will help ensure your work is entered. You can find all the entry information and the application at BrunswickArtsCouncil.org or simply scan the QR code accompanying this story.
Works must be hand delivered to Franklin Square Gallery on Saturday, September 14, between 10 am and 1 pm. A Reception & Awards Ceremony will be held Friday, Sept. 20 from 5 to 7 pm and will feature a Judges Walk-Thru from 5:15-6:15 pm allowing artists, family and friends to tour the show from the judges’ perspective. Removal of work is Sunday, Sept. 29 between 10 am and 2 pm.
This year’s Judge is William T. Miller of Myrtle Beach.
“William (Billy) H. Miller, originally from Western New York State, is a graduate of NYC’s Parsons School of Design. While he spent much of his career as a computer graphic artist and in online marketing, he never stopped creating his own art,” said BAC Executive Director Mary Beth Livers. “From New York to Texas, and now in South Carolina, Billy has been sharing his unique view of the world through his abstracts. Presently, Billy runs his own studio/art gallery in Myrtle Beach, sharing his own work and supporting the local art community. He has been a Winner & Finalist for Best Artist and Best Gallery in the Happening List and shown twice in ArtFields, and had a solo exhibition at the Art Museum. He is a member of multiple art groups and
guilds in the Grand Strand area, and a founding member of the First Fridays Art Walk in the downtown Arts + Innovation District of Myrtle Beach. Billy also has served as a Board Member of the Franklin G Burroughs-Simeon B Chapin Art Museum in Myrtle Beach for nine years before joining the staff as Institutional Planning Coordinator in 2022. As a creative catalyst, Executive Director of TheArtsGrandStrand.org, and Board Member of the Myrtle Beach Downtown Alliance, he is always looking for ways to support the Arts in our community. We are honored to have an artist of his experience and caliper as our judge this year.”
Entries must be original works, not previously shown at the BAC Annual Fall Exhibition. Ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, or a combination of the listed media created in the last four years (2020-2024) will be considered. 2D art works must be suitably framed and securely wired ready to hang. 2D entries 30” or larger must be framed under plexiglas. All entries must not exceed 40” in any direction. 3D work must not exceed 50 pounds.
Each entry will be judged as a unique art work relating to the elements of art, success of craftsmanship, presentation and theme.
Artists will receive 100 percent of the sale price. Work may be listed as Not For Sale.
Community Educational Fun
Museum of Coastal Carolina Programs
Looking for a break fromk the Dog Days of Summer? How about a trip to Ocean Isle Beach to visit a museum? It’s full of history and nature and all sorts of interartcive fun, and yes, air conditioning! In addition to the exhibits, the museum offers a slate of programming that will educate and entertain all members of your family. Here’s what’s on the slate for the month of August.
•Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:00 am - Touch Tank Feeding: With staff and trained volunteer assistance, gently touch the sea creatures living in the Museum’s Touch Tank and watch trained volunteers feed the animals.
•Mondays and Fridays at 1:00 pm – Science in 3D - Mars: Take advantage of the Museum’s virtual reality mobile classroom, strap on a virtual reality headset, and explore Mars in 3D!
•Tuesdays at 11:00 am - Sea Tales: Listen to stories starring animals or exhibits displayed at the Museum and complete interactive crafts or science activities based on each story:
oAugust 6 - The Shark Who Only Wanted to Eat French Fries by Katrine Brunn: Follow a shark on its journey to find its favorite meal: crispy, delicious French fries, learn the value of being open to new experiences, and make a fantastic shark craft.
oAugust 13 – A House for a Hermit Crab by Eric Carle: Learn more about hermit crabs by following one who decorates his new shell after outgrowing his old one and make a fun crab craft that looks just like the one in the story.
oAugust 20 - Tammy Turtle by Suzanne Tate: Hear Tammy Turtle’s harrowing story of being rescued by human helpers after she mistakenly eats a plastic bag thinking it’s a jellyfish and explore what’s in a turtle’s stomach through a fun activity.
oAugust 27 - Otter on His Own by Doe Boyle: After Sea Otter Pup’s mother teaches him to dive and hunt, discover what awaits them in the open sea and make a fun otter craft!
•Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:00 pm – Science in 3D – Sea Turtle Quest: Closely study sea turtles in 3D using the Museum’s virtual reality headsets!
•Tuesdays at 3:00 pm – The Sea Turtle Game of Life: Learn about sea turtle species that visit coastal NC and discover what everyone can do to protect these endangered sea creatures through an interactive activity.
•Wednesdays at 1:00 pm – Science in 3D – Hurricane Maria: Fly into the eye of Hurricane Maria through the lens of a virtual reality headset.
•Wednesdays at 3:00 pm – All Hands on Deck! – Beach and Ocean Safety: Learn beach and ocean safety tips, including what to do when swimming alone and how to help someone in the water through interactive discussion and make a fun sea bottle craft.
•Thursdays at 11:00 am – Shark Smarts: Learn fun facts about sharks, including myths and misconceptions, and discuss “shark smarts” that will keep everyone safe while enjoying fun in the sun.
•Thursdays at 3:00 pm – Swamp Sleuths: Learn about the diversity of life in the Green Swamp by becoming a wildlife detective, compiling evidence, narrowing down crime suspects, and putting your swamp sleuthing skills to the test!
•Thursdays at 6:00 pm – Snakes Alive!: Learn about snake species, their diets, and how to distinguish venomous vs. non-venomous varieties with the help of a local snake expert and several live snakes!
Museum of Coastal Carolina and Ingram Planetarium Director of Programs and Exhibits Jamie Justice schedules and facilitates all Family Programs. Justice received her Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from Bowling Green State University and her Master of Science in Environmental Science with concentrations in Marine and Coastal Education and Coastal Management from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington.
Also, you can head down to Sunset Beach to enjoy the Ingram Planetarium. They also have nice, cool A/C!
Bathing
Grooming
Thanking Veterans
Commemorative Vietnam War Vet Pin
STORY BY PATTY LANGER
The Vietnam War was an unpopular war fought during an era of social unrest in America. It was a dark time for our country that many people would rather not remember. But great sacrifices were made by the 2.7 million Americans who served in uniform during the Vietnam War, and their efforts should never be forgotten.
The Vietnam War Commemoration was launched by President Obama in 2012 and authorized by Congress to publicly acknowledge our nation’s gratitude to all Vietnam veterans. The ongoing initiative, administered by the Secretary of Defense, will continue through Veterans Day in 2025, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the war’s end. A Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin is available to all veterans of the war as “a lasting memento of the Nation’s thanks.”
There were 58,220 US soldiers killed and 304,000 wounded during Vietnam War, which spanned 20 years, from 1955 to 1975. The U.S. National Archives (www. archives.gov) states that approximately 75,000 Vietnam veterans were severely disabled. Soldiers returning home from the war, two-thirds of whom had been drafted, faced the scrutiny of an angry nation. Sadly, many were shunned by a disenfranchised public, or worse, unfairly targeted by anti-war protestors.
This produced a generation of soldiers who were scarred not only by the horrific experience of the war, but also by the negative social stigma that surrounded it. As a result, homelessness, mental health issues and suicide rates have been particularly high among this group of veterans, even to this day. Many Vietnam veterans remain reluctant to talk about their experience. Sadly, these veterans never received the recognition they deserved for their selfless service to our country.
As time passed, the consequences of our societal failures came to light. Over the last several years, the U.S. government has made significant strides in its efforts to provide physical and emotional support to all our veterans, including those who served in Vietnam.
The Vietnam War Commemoration pro-
duced a lapel pin for presentation to living U.S. veterans who served on active duty in the United States Armed Forces between November 1, 1955 through May 15, 1975, regardless of location. Spouses of deceased Vietnam veterans are also eligible to receive the commemoration. It is a symbolic gesture, meant to express the recognition that these soldiers deserved. Although the Commemoration has been going on since 2012, there is a renewed push to distribute lapel pins as the 50th anniversary year approaches and the program winds to an end.
Local Initiative
The Vietnam War Commemoration forms partnerships with federal, state, and local communities, as well as veteran’s and other nongovernmental organizations, to facilitate the initiative. According to its website, “The Commemoration is providing Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins to Commemorative Partners for dignified public presentations to U.S. military veterans, living at home or abroad, who served during the Vietnam War period as a lasting memento of the Nation’s thanks.”
In our region, the Cape Fear Blue Star Mothers of America is one such partner.
Blue Star Mothers are parents of men and women who are actively serving in the military. The organization raises money to provide support for the families of these soldiers. They also volunteer their time with veterans.
Mary Jo Schepf, a board member of the Cape Fear Blue Star Mothers, coordinates the local Commemoration efforts. Her son is an active-duty reservist who has served for 23 years with the United States Air Force. According to Mary Jo, the Blue Star Mothers have distributed approxi-
mately 550 commemorative lapel pins to Vietnam veterans since March of 2024, in the area extending from Wilmington to the South Carolina boarder. Their goal is to reach all veterans who served in the war — a daunting task considering Brunswick County is the most heavily populated Vietnam Veteran area in North Carolina
“It is an honor and a privilege, actually, to be able to coordinate this movement and to hand a pin to a veteran,” MaryJo said.
The primary fundraiser for Blue Star Moms is the sale of wreaths through a program called “Wreaths Across America.” The wreaths are placed on the gravestones of veterans in Arlington National Cemetery and cemeteries across the country during the month of December. Wreathes Across America, a non-profit organization, brought a mobile education exhibit to our area in March, 2024, with stints at the Oak Island Elks lodge and VFW post, the Brunswick County Government Center in Bolivia, and the Walmart in Southport. Part of that exhibit was a “Welcome Station” for veterans that provided information about the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin program. Pins were
presented to Vietnam veterans on site. MaryJo Schepf witnessed two friends receiving the pin.
“There was an overwhelming emotional response from these vets,” she said.
After learning more about the lapel pin initiative, the Cape Fear Blue Star Moms decided to join the effort, registering to become an official commemorative partner.
The Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin is inscribed with a quote: “A grateful nation thanks and honors You.” It is typically presented in ceremonial fashion, at local meetings or events, and comes with a certificate that explains the pin’s symbolism and a Presidential Proclamation.
Blue Star Moms are actively working with the American Legion and other groups in the area to spread the word about the lapel pins and arrange for presentation ceremonies.
During the week of August 11-17, the Blue Star Moms will have the honor of participating in the City of Southport’s nightly flag lowering ceremony at Waterfront Park on Bay Street. After the ceremony, which happens at 7:30 pm, lapel pins will be presented to all Vietnam veterans in attendance. The Blue Star Moms will also host a lapel pin presentation ceremony at their annual meeting in September. There are several other events in the works tied to Veterans Day in November.
If you know a Vietnam veteran who would like to receive a commemorative lapel pin, contact Mary Jo Schnepf at cjsmjs00@ gmail.com.
For more information on the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin initiative, visit www.vietnamwar50th.com
Community
Food Truck Rodeo
Feed The Family At Second Annual Event
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES
Feed your entire crew with ease, even if everyone wants something different, at the Second Annual Food Truck Rodeo on Saturday, Aug. 3 on Bay Street in front of the Fort Johnston. Vendors from around the region will be on hand offering a wide variety of tasty treats.
“We are expecting around 20 food trucks this year, with several favorites returning from last year, including Cash’s Smokin BBQ LLC, Chocolate and S’more, Hot Diggity Dawgs, Kona Ice of South Brunswick County, Pigs Up in Smoke BBQ Ribs and Burgers, and Two Natives Smokehouse,” said Allyna Dail, Southport Community Relations Director. “Additionally, we have many new faces joining us to offer even more delicious options.”
We brought our visiting family to last
year’s event and managed to make two teens, a pre-teen and all the adults happy with their lunch. That’s not an easy feat. The event also features live music and you can enjoy both the band and your lunch in the shade of the giant trees overlooking the river. What’s not to love?
“This is truly an awesome event for the community,” said Dail. “Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in a wide array of dishes from various food trucks, each bringing their own specialty to the table. From savory to sweet,
there’s something for every palate. In addition to the fantastic food, the event will feature live music from Little Big House, a band known for their eclectic blend of
49th Annual Meeting
STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN SPHAR, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, SOUTHPORT-OAK ISLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Members of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce gathered at the Southport Community Building for the Chamber’s 49th Annual Meeting on June 26. This meeting serves as an opportunity for the membership to network, celebrate the success of the fiscal year and refocus for the coming year.
After enjoying a sweet breakfast provided by Burney’s Bakery of Southport, Bald Head Coffee & Tea House, and Nonnie’s Baking Company the meeting was called to order. Keynote speakers Trevor Carroll, PE, Deputy Division Engineer, and Michelle Howes, PE Corridor Development Engineer, Division 3, NC Department of Transportation gave a detailed update about transportation improvements in development, under construction, and unfunded future projects.
The meeting also serves as a platform for the leadership to pass from the current President of the Chamber’s Board of Directors to the next. Teresa Carroll (Edward Jones) passed the presidential gavel to Brooke Rudd-Gaglie (Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS). Prior to relinquishing the presidency, Carroll reflected on the past year and made several recognitions. “We have refocused our efforts and the members resources to create additional member centric opportunities like the Coastal Health, Fitness & Beauty Showcase and the Fashion with Friends Fashion Show. Both events were hugely successful
and showcased different segments of our membership,” she said. “We also packaged our membership levels to streamline the event sponsorship opportunities – giving our members options to increase support and business visibility.”
Carroll stressed the need to grow the membership and challenged the current members to recruit one new member in the next 30 days.
The President’s Award is presented annually to an individual or group that has significantly impacted our business community or the Chamber. Carroll awarded this year’s President’s Award to Ben Frazier (The State Port Pilot). “Your dedication extends beyond professional achievements. You have been a champion of numerous charitable causes, dedicating countless hours to volunteer work and ensuring our chamber thrives through community memberships,” she said. Carroll continued by thanking Frazier for his “exceptional service and for making our community a better place.“
Carroll announced the 2023/2024 Ann Hollingsworth Ambassador of the Year, Felicia Sexton (Independent Associate of LegalShield/ IDShield and Carolina Crab Brewing Company) for representing the chamber at 58 Chamber functions. Ambassadors are fellow chamber members who volunteer their time to update other chamber members about upcoming activities and gain feedback from the membership.
Carroll completed the awards by recognizing fellow retiring board members Lisa Benna (Benna Consulting, LLC), Cindy Capps (Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill & Sunset Deck), Heather King (Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center), Brina Neeley (Coastline Insurance Associates of NC & Beach Body Contouring & Wellness), and Pamela Sexton (Cattail Cottage). The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce is governed by a 15-member Board of Directors of which five directors are elected annually and serve threeyear terms.
thanked Teresa Carroll for her service and leadership as the presidency was handed over to her for the 2024/2025 fiscal year and addressed the membership. “One of my fondest memories dates back to when my father, S.R. “Buddy” Rudd Jr. chaired the US Open King Mackerel Tournament,” she said. “A group of us would run around on the docks, poking fisheyes, jumping from dock to dock. I won’t say who, but one of us missed the dock and landed directly into the marina water. Never could
2024/25 Chamber Board of Directors
President’s Award – Ben Frazier (The State Port Pilot) and Teresa Carroll, 2023/24 Chamber President. Retiring Board Members
I have imagined that one day I would be sworn in as the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce President.
“This morning, we heard words like “overpass,” “interchanges,” and “expansion projects” as Trevor and Michele from NCDOT updated the room. We have grown from an area not even on the map to a sought-after destination,” she said. “Now you may be asking yourself why I shared the story about the U.S. Open years ago. As members of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce, we are guardians of our history and storytellers of our area. Our members embody the essence of a small town, extending warmth and hospitality to those who hear the stories and can’t wait to arrive and experience adventures. I am hopeful all our members realize how important they are and what roles they play in the lives of so many. Businesses who aren’t yet members, come on and join. Join in with stories you have that can be told. Together we can grow in numbers but retain that down home feel woven through small towns everywhere.”
Chamber News
2024/2025 Chamber President Brooke Rudd-Gaglie (Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS and 2023/24 Chamber President Teresa Carroll (Edward Jones).
Rudd-Gaglie introduced the 2024/2025 Board of Directors. Individuals elected by the membership to fill those retiring positions were Kevin Annas (MOcean Contracting, Inc.), Victoria Bellamy (Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center), Jessica Niedomanski (Coastline Insurance Associates
Blue Cow Grille is located at:
108 E Moore Street in Southport, NC
Open daily from 11AM-8PM (910) 363-4402
of NC, Inc.), Carysa Overcash, Cape Fear Fitness, and Jeffrey Stites (Southport Magazine). Those continuing their terms on the board include: Justin Cutrell (First Citizens Bank), Jackie Del Prete (Dunes Mercantile Gifts & Guitars), Gina DiSabato (Island Treasure Hunt), Hugh Fosbury (iTrip Vacations of Oak Island & Captain Newton’s Inn), Jack
Hamilton (Hamilton Realty Group at eXp Realty), Will Mitchell (Corning Federal Credit Union), Bradley Narron (BEMC), and Felicia Sexton(Independent Associate of LegalShield/IDShield and Carolina Crab Brewing Company).
The Annual Meeting sponsors were by Berry, Padgett & Chandler, PLLC; Burney’s Bakery of Southport, City of Southport, Dosher Memorial Hospital; East Coast Moving, LLC; Grey Outdoor, LLC, J.R. Huntley Homes, Lil & John Sweetreat Ice Cream Parlor, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, Oak Island Sporting Goods, Osteo Health & Balance, TotalEnergies Renewables USA, LLC – Carolina Long Bay, Tranquil Harbour Restaurant & Bar, and Wall Recycling.
If you would like more information about this topic or to join the Chamber, please contact Karen Sphar at 910-4576964 or email karen@southport-oakisland.com.
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Summer InSouthport
FLAG CEREMONY
NIGHTLY, ENDS SEPTEMBER 2ND
FOOD TRUCK RODEO
AUGUST 3RD, BAY STREET
CONCERT SERIES
BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 1ST FORT JOHNSTON LAWN
SUMMER MARKET
WEDNESDAYS, BEHIND SOUTHPORT CITY GYM
Currents Drinks of Summer
Local Options For Beating The Heat
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JANET FORTNEY
If you’ve ever found yourself slammed by a soupy wall of southeastern NC summer heat, you know that liquid refreshment becomes essential. So where in Southport can one find fruit-forward, cooling cocktails and mocktails? And which frosty potions top the list of local favorites?
At Loco Jo’s Bar & Grill (602 N. Howe St.), recent drink specials included Coconut Rum Punch and Vodka Fresh-Squeezed Blueberry Lemonade. Co-owner Nikki Shields said, “We’re known for our specials and we post them on social media. [For the blueberry lemonade,] we got Owen’s Farm blueberries and did a homemade blueberry syrup and made a fresh-squeezed blueberry lemonade with vodka.”
“We do a lot of margaritas,” Nikki added. “Probably the two top-selling ones would be the Prickly Pear Margarita and the Seafoam Margarita. The Seafoam Margarita originally started out as a December drink promo called the ’Winter White Margarita‘ and it was
so popular that my customers actually renamed it for me because they wanted to see it on the menu year round.”
The drink menu at Royal James Rummery (109 E. Moore St.) tempts with piña coladas, mai tais, and more; but, bartender Kaitlyn Trivette quickly confirms that the top-sellers at the rum bar are “absolutely the Painkillers, especially the coconut one. You can’t really taste the alcohol in it, but it is so good. We use a coconut-water rum, so it’s not so syrupy like other coconut rums. That one’s by far the bestseller. Also, any of the frozen drinks because they come in the cute glasses.” Of course, who isn’t a sucker for a fun tiki glass, right?
bibe to get tropically refreshed in America’s Happiest Seaside Town. Royal James’ Citrus Sunrise cocktail (orange juice, grapefruit juice, grenadine, soda water); Fizzy Jane’s Jane’s Mocktail (lime, pineapple, thyme, sparkling water); and all – that’s right, all – of the cocktails at Loco Jo’s can be created sans alcohol.
Over at the Yacht Basin, John Sadler, a bartender at Edgewater 122 (122 Yacht Basin Drive), says that the restaurant’s firstplace summer cocktail is a toss up between its Cocorita – Edgewater’s version of a coconut margarita – and its fresh strawberry daiquiri, made with “muddled strawberries.”
Additional highlights of Southport’s summer elixir scene include the Jungle Bird cocktail at Fizzy Jane’s (614 W. West St.), made with rum, aperol, lime, and pineapple; American Fish Co.’s (150 Yacht Basin Drive) Green Mermaid Punch featuring Malibu Coconut rum, blue curacao, pineapple juice, and orange juice; and the frozen wine slushies at Sil-
Happily, one does not have to im-
ver Coast Winery Tasting Room (105A S. Howe St.).
Kaitlyn Trivette and a Royal James Tiki mug
Community Finding A Friend
Mike Royal’s Southport Memories
It was one of those hot humid summers around 1965 in that little place down by the river called Southport. The boy was keen on improving his baseball skills having just failed to make the Southport Little League Baseball team for the third time.
You see, in those days it was normal and expected to be good enough to make the teams. Kids understood winning and losing. Awards were given only when earned. That was the boy’s motivation on that muggy summer day…to practice throwing and catching his baseball, the very nice and FREE baseball he had found while exploring under the bleachers at Taylor field. All it needed was some electricians tape and it was as good as new. It worked fine, although some evenings, as the sun set, it was a little hard to see with all that black electricians tape. He rationalized that as a way to improve his eye and hand coordination.
On this day the boy went in search of
a partner to catch his wild pitches and practice his catching. His friends and the kids on the block were busy doing other important childhood things, except for his sister and her friends, but they were GIRLS! No way, he thought! Stephen Dunn was down the street visiting his aunt Susie Carson but he was in the middle of a great WWII battle, positioning his GI Joe force on high ground overlooking the German encampment. Rodney Melton had taken off with Bob and Jerry to collect lost hooks and sinkers at low tide on the river’s edge. The boy kept looking for a baseball player, a Mickey Mantle or a Carl Yastrzemski type from the neighborhood.
He walked down the street tossing his
ball up and catching it in his mitt as the search continued for the Yogi Berra of Southport. As luck would have it, and even if he didn’t realize it at the time, he would meet a new friend and didn’t even have to leave the block. The boy only had to pass one house when he came upon a young man standing in a yard, like many yards on that block, but behind a tall fence.
The boy said hello and asked his soon-to-be-new friend if he wanted play catch. With a quick nod the young man headed inside to ask permission. Just moments later the new friend stepped out of the old two story brick building and walked through the gate making sure to close it behind him.
With an acknowledgement and a brief hello the new friend said his name was “The James” but the boy could call him James. They walked to the street side of the building and paced off an appropriate distance for fielding and catching the baseball and began to practice.
Even now, as the boy reflects on the moment, he must admit that he was very
The Old Jail is now home to the Southport Historical Society, and open for tours
impressed with his new friend’s ability to catch the hard ball, especially without a mitt. Hoping his new friend would like to practice and continue the tutelage into the future, the boy promised to bring him a baseball mitt from home for his new friend to use. So, that’s what they did. They did this everyday all summer long.
The boy got a little better each day and, thanks to “The James,” the next year he MADE THE SOUTHPORT LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL TEAM! He remembers that his flannel uniform number was 7 and his sponsor was stitched in bold red letters across his back. It read “Brunswick Motors.” He knew Brunswick Motors well and its owner Dub Clewis. As he reflects on this, he wants to say, “thanks Dub Clewis” and thanks to all the other local businesses that supported and sponsored all those childhood dreams of Major League proportions!
As the boy looks back now, he can see how unique, unusual and special the whole experience had been. It seems the moment is a classic small town 1960s experience… from a time when things were more simple.
The boy knew the two-story brick building was Southport’s Old Jail. It was still actively in use at that time. He learned later, that “The James” was a prisoner and not just a worker at the old jail. The yard, the jailhouse yard, was surrounded by a tall fence with barbed wire on top. The jailer inside must have allowed “The James” to step outside the fence and play catch with this little kid from down the street.
The boy never realized it when it was happening, that The James was an inmate serving time for some infraction. He’s sure now, that inside those barred windows, some jailer was keeping an eye peeled their way. “The James” never caused a bit of trouble in those early years as the boy hung around the Old Jail passing the time with a baseball and occasionally stepping next door to Mr. Willie Davis’ store for a Coke and some Nabs.
The James was an adult, but in many ways, he was more like the kids. He acted and thought like they did and perhaps that’s why they got along so well, at least in those early innocent years. As time went on “The James” had more problems with the law and he seemed to grow angry over the years. The boy always wondered if this was his frustration coming out because he understood his own limitations and some-
Community
times folks treated him differently.
You may have a memory of seeing The
James. He was known to ride a tall Palamino horse into town from his home that was several miles outside of town. Wearing his cowboy hat and darting in and out of traffic, he could be seen many days making the trek down Highway 211. In later years, when he lost his horse, he made a point to still find a way to travel that 211 path into Southport. Perhaps there was not as much darting in and out of traffic since he had transitioned from a horse to a Briggs and Straton powered riding lawn mower. He was a sight to see making his way down highway 211.
The boy now knows “The James” was troubled and at times seemed lost. But in the summer of 1965 he was a friend to this kid from the block and helped the boy to improve his baseball skills. Perhaps because of ”The James,” when the boy was 12 years old and in his last year of eligibility to play Little League Baseball, he made the team and went on that year to be selected to the All Star Team. Even now the boy sends a thank you to “The James” as he remembers that time in his life.
By: Mike Royal
Taylor Field in present day
FISHING REPORT
August Fishing Report
Even In The Dog Days Fish Can Be Found
BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK
Well, we are midway through the summer if you can believe it, and as to be expected this time of year, we’ve had some great fishing along our coast. However, with the “dog days” of summer upon us, following a rough July that presented us with high winds and rough seas, some will say the fishing is bad or the fish are gone, but I promise that’s not the case. What it does mean is that anglers who want to catch fish may need to adjust their techniques and targeted species to have a great day of fishing! During this time of year, it’s best to start your day early in the morning or go fishing late in the day. The cooler temperatures make the fish more active and provide a more comfortable experience for anglers. As the day heats up, the fish tend to move to deeper waters to stay cool.
INSHORE
The finger mullets have arrived in big numbers and are easy to find by patrolling the marshes, marinas, and along the sandbars in our area. Despite a statewide closure for keeping any recreational flounder, you can still catch and release — and fishing is on fire with MANY big flounder being caught both inshore and on the nearshore wrecks and reefs. A simple Carolina rig with a ¾ oz egg weight is really all you need with live finger mullet. The Southport waterfront produces tons of flounder this time of year as do the main feeder creeks and islands on the Cape Fear River. Additionally, Yau-
pon Reef, McGlamery Reef, and the Ella wreck are producing great flounder fishing as well.
If it’s the red drum you are seeking, they can be found along the marshes, especially on a falling tide ambushing finger mullet as they swim out of the small creeks in the marsh. Another often overlooked spot is along the marsh islands that have wind blowing against them because the bait gets pushed up along the bank and the redfish cruise the area looking for an easy meal.
Sheepshead fishing is also very active and not only fun to catch, but great to eat. I recommend a light jig head with fiddler crabs dropped down beside pylons, retaining walls, and rock piles to get bites from these feisty fish. The real challenge with sheepshead is feeling the bite and setting the hook, but if you take plenty of patience and bait with you it will make for a fun day.
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
which are so fun on light tackle.
NEARSHORE:
Unfortunately, the hot water along the beach has chased
the bulk (not all) of the Spanish mackerel and bluefish out of the area. While there are still a few around, the days of catching a limit in an hour or two are gone for a few weeks. However, if these are the fish you are targeting, you still have some options. The best plan is to go a little further offshore to deeper, cooler water, for example around the Shoals. Look for the birds working, and you will typically find the fish feeding aggressively. Another favorite nearshore method this time of year is using an inshore spinning rod with #6 treble hooks on smaller king rigs with either big finger mullet or small pogeys and setting them at nearshore reefs such as Yaupon or Lighthouse Rocks. From there, slow troll or make drifts over the structure where you mark suspended fish, and you are sure to catch some worthy Spanish mackerel
In late August, we will start seeing our first schools of bull red drum on the beach. Upon their arrival, they are initially caught around the massive menhaden (pogey) bait balls that will be found on the beach from the Cape Fear River to Lockwood Folly inlet. A larger Carolina rig with a 2- to 3-ounce egg sinker and 6/0 or 7/0 circle hook is the best rig to use for
bull red drum. By casting a live menhaden into the bait ball and letting it sink through the bait, the bull reds will take advantage of your bait on the bottom resulting in a great fight. It is important to use heavier spinning tackle such as your cobia setup to catch these fish. It is always important to avoid a prolonged fight with these fish as they will become overtired and less likely to recover from the fight and avoid the sharks that will also be patrolling the bait balls.
OFFSHORE:
Offshore, the king mackerel and mahi fishing is slowing down, but we will begin seeing our first sailfish of the season in the 15- to 35-mile range. Be on the lookout for the color change in the water from green to blue to find yourself among these beautiful fish. A circle hooked ballyhoo will allow you to cover a little more water as compared to slow trolling live bait.
Another great offshore option is bottom fishing for sea bass, vermillion snapper, scamp grouper, and amberjacks in about 100 feet of water and working offshore from there. For the sea bass and snapper, use a squid on a double hook rig; for the
FISHING REPORT
grouper, use live cigar minnows or pinfish to attract the catch – both can be jigged using Sabiki rigs.
If you are looking for action and acrobatics, an often-overlooked fishery in our area is light lining for BIG barracudas. These silver bullets bite aggressively, run like crazy, and deliver Olympic-worthy aerial stunts
that really get your adrenaline going. Most often, barracudas can be found stacked up on shipwrecks and hanging around the buoys marking the artificial reefs in the 5- to 10mile range.
They are unable to avoid attacking a live pin fish and the bites are epic.
GULF STREAM
Lastly, it won’t be long before the Gulf Stream action starts to show off in all the best ways. Although there are some fish out there, the water is currently hot and fast-moving, which isn’t ideal for the Pelagic species we love to catch. However, towards the end of August, we can expect to see some wahoo appearing in 20 fathoms. My preferred method to catch these early season fish is to high-speed troll until the
fish are located, then switch out for ballyhoo rigs with wire leaders and be patient. Before you know it, the Gulf Stream fishing will be on fire.
As always, I look forward to seeing you on the water with tight lines.
Keeping Fit
Fitness By Example
Someone Is Always Watching, And It’s Good
STORY BY VICTOR FERNANDES
Victor Fernandes is owner of Fernandez Fit, helpjng clients achieve personal and professional success through health and fitness
Until recently, my 14-year-old son, Zachary, rarely showed an interest in strength training, and frankly I had never truly pressed the issue with him.
Like adults who want to improve their health and well-being but allow their fears to get in the way, Zach wouldn’t be ready to train until he took that all-important first step to better health and fitness without any provocation from me.
No one can make anyone ready. We have to believe we’re ready. And until that day comes, I simply set a good example through my actions, not my words, in hopes he – really, anyone – watches and takes note, and chooses to take action that will change their lives.
The good thing is…someone is always watching.
It may be Zach, who sees me in our home gym every day. It may be someone who follows my content on social media, or that person who randomly hears me discussing a health and fitness topic.
But someone is always watching –and in turn, the example I set, whether I realize it or not. And that same thought applies to you. It applies to anyone.
We all have people in our lives, especially those within our inner circle, who quietly look to us for guidance and inspiration. They may never ask why you do what you do, why you do it the way you do, and what it does to benefit your life.
Then one day, it clicks with that person, like it has with Zach these past few weeks. Often, it’s a moment in time that provides the spark we need to take that step forward. I recall a client who, unbeknownst to me, followed my content on Facebook for a year and a half before reaching out and asking for help.
It took a current Fernandes Fit client
nearly three years to finally feel ready to seek help getting her health and well-being on track, even after seeing me train her son in a gym for more than a year, following my content on social media, and having conversations from time to time on her health and well-being. Then one day, she reached out and signed up without the slightest bit of trepidation, and nearly a year later has dropped more than 40 pounds. It took my latest client even longer to decide it was time to make a change for the better. We’ve known each other for more than 30 years, and he’s known that I’ve worked in the health and fitness industry for the past six years.
For Zachary, it was his birthday in early July that set the stage for him.
He had a few friends over that night t celebrate his birthday. Two of his friends play football, so they have some personal experience in gym settings.
They were excited to see the Vicnasium for the first time. And even though Zach set up his video game system in the living room for them to play, they asked if they could work out in the home of Fernandes Fit LLC (which by the way was aptly named the Vicnasium by my longest tenured client several years ago).
Zach didn’t say a word. He simply joined in with his friends. They trained late into the evening, and Zach hasn’t slowed down his progress. I’m not convincing him to get in the gym for workouts. He has come to me to ask about training.
With how much teenagers have to be distracted by these days, it’s no small feat to get them to do anything that will benefit them mind, body and soul.
It’s even more of a challenge to get them to stick to something long-term that will benefit them every day of their lives. But all we can do is do the work and trust the process and trust they
will see what we’re doing and take action.
The good thing is, young people are observant, and they’re smart. Zach certainly is. I knew he was watching, even if he wasn’t taking action based on what he saw.
I just had to continue setting a healthy example day after day, both in the gym and the kitchen, and wait for him to reach a point in his mind when he was ready to take action. Now, we have something new to share – and I couldn’t be happier –because it will change our lives in so many ways.
If you want to learn more about setting the right example for those around you, or simply have a conversation about your fitness goals and needs, contact me at 814-504-7774 or info@fernandesfit.com, or head to fernandesfit.com for more information – because at Fernandes Fit…
Franklin Square Gallery is highlighting the work of two talented Featured Artists through August 17: painter Robert Huntoon and ceramic sculptor Billie Mae Outlaw. Both artists will be attending the Gallery’s First Friday event on Aug. 2, 5-7 pm. The evening promises to be a wonderful event where visitors may enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine as they meet the artists, discuss their artwork, and discover the other wonderful paintings and ceramic work on display throughout the Gallery.
Hailing from Vermont, Featured 2D Artist Robert Huntoon is an award-winning oil painter who has exhibited and taught painting locally and nationally. He grew up in a home surrounded by art and nature, and from a very young age was drawn to landscapes. Living amidst the lush hills and river valleys of his home state and teaching art for the
best part of his life, Bob developed the technical skills for distilling the natural world into painted images.
“I like the constant stimulation and the challenges of landscape painting,” he said. “I try to capture nature so that somebody else can see it the way I do.” Now living and working here in North Carolina, he has “relearned the
language of landscape…approaching our beautiful coastal panoramas with greater maturity and respect for what we’ve been blessed.”
Featured 3D Artist Billie Mae Outlaw is an established ceramic sculptor known for her thought-provoking and unique work. Her pieces have been exhibited in galleries and museums and have been sold internationally. Born and raised in Winnabow, where she currently lives, Billie Mae was encouraged from an early age to express herself creatively through various media, including painting, sculpture and stained glass. Her world travel experiences, nature and outer space provide
her with endless sources of inspiration for her ceramic sculpture, which typically features vibrant colors and unusual textures. Through these pieces, she aims “to challenge conventions, inspire change, and push the boundaries of what is possible.”
Franklin Square Gallery, home of the Associated Artists of Southport, is a cooperative of more than 120 artists, located at 130 E. West St. in the heart of historic downtown Southport. With support from the Brunswick Arts Council ARPA Program, a Designated County Partner of the North Carolina Arts Council, the Gallery embodies the rich artistic culture that thrives in Southport. It offers original art and pottery for sale and is open to the public, free of charge, from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.
New Season Speakers
Brunswick Civil War Roundtable 2024-25
The Brunswick Civil War Round Table’s schedule of engaging speakers led to incredible success this past season. More than 180 new members joined, and this non-profit organization maintained its envious reputation as the largest Civil War round table in the country with 1,088 members. The momentum will continue when the new season begins in September with a lineup of exceptional historians. They will present topics of interest to everyone, men and women, young and old, who want to know more about this important period in our country’s history.
The scheduled programs include:
Tuesday, Sept. 3: Battle of Spotsylvania Court House. Popular and entertaining Civil War historian Chris Mackowski returns to our round table by popular demand. He will discuss the second major Civil War engagement in Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant’s Overland Campaign. This major offensive was designed and executed to chase down Gen. Robert E. Lee, destroy his forces, and defeat the Confederacy. Chris’s dynamic presentation promises to “seize” your attention.
Tuesday, Oct. 1: Award-winning Civil War historian and author of 21 books Eric J. Wittenberg 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.
Monday, Oct. 24: The Civil War Ladies’ Forum (sponsored by the BCWRT), is pleased to introduce to all the ladies in attendance Mrs. Mary Duffy, tavern owner in Smithville. She will share a wealth of memories and stories about life during the “War of Southern Independence.” All of this will be shared by guest speaker Liz Fuller decked out in period dress. Liz is a popular speaker, and is current president of the Southport Historical Society.
Tuesday, Nov. 5: Another popular returning guest to discuss cattle rustling is author, preservationist, and historian, Will Greene. His presentation is appropriately entitled “The Beefsteak Raid at Petersburg.” The raid was a success, capturing over 2,000 cattle, along with some prisoners and wagons. The raid provided a much needed food source for Confederate soldiers defending Petersburg. However, without beef preservation capabilities in the intense summer heat, soldiers simply had to dine on steak every day
Liz Fuller as Mary Duffy while it lasted.
Tuesday, Dec. 3: The Round Table is honored to have award-winning living historian Curt Fields join us once again to portray Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, in military uniform and traditional cigar. Nationally recognized, Curt’s extensive research gives him permission to deliver an accurate persona of Grant, including quotes from Grant’s memoirs, articles and letters he wrote, and remarkable statements or decisions he made while Union troops were under his command. Whatever he decides to share
Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025: Always interesting and captivating, prolific author, frequent lecturer, and longtime advisor to the BCWRT, Col. Wade Sokolosky (Ret.) will cover a topic critically important throughout the war entitled, “Civil War Hospitals.” Hospitals treated the majority of the over 600,000 who died from wounds or disease. While Civil War presentations frequently
Brad Gottfried
Curt Fields
Judkin Browning with us, it will take us back into history.
discuss battles, often overlooked is the daily life in hospitals where soldiers spent weeks, and even months recovering, despite poor sanitation and overcrowded conditions.
Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025: Licensed battlefield guide and historic site manager Kevin Pawlak will join us to discuss a major turning point in the Civil War entitled, “Never
Such a Campaign: The Battle of Second Manassas.” In August, 1862, with flanking maneuvers, surprise attacks, and rapidly shifting battle lines, Gen. Robert E. Lee’s emboldened Confederate army forced the Federals’ retreat toward Washington. This led to Lee’s first successful invasion of the North, and shattered the North’s optimism of putting an early end to the war.
Tuesday, March 4, 2025: With over 60,000 books written to date about the Civil War, reasonable people may ask, “What’s left to
reveal?” Ask Judkin Browning and Timothy Silver, two professors from Appalachian State University. Their presentation is entitled, “Weaponing Food: From Antietam to Vicksburg.” They recognize that the Civil War was much more than a military conflict. It was also a time when environmental issues came into play; e.g., like food supplies, weather, topography, animals, disease, etc., all impacting the outcome of key battles from Antietam and Vicksburg.
Tuesday, April 1, 2025: Gen. Robert E. Lee called him “The Gallant Pelham.” Who is he? We’ll find out as Sarah Bierle, researcher, author, and managing editor of Emerging Civil War presents, “John Pelham: Trained at West Point but Aiming Artillery for the Confederacy.” As an artillery officer, he was instrumental in creating the concept of “horse artillery.” His troops could move quickly alongside the cavalry for surprise attacks and rapid deployment of firepower, earning him a commendation
Kevin Pawlak
Chris Mackowski
Sarah Key Bierle
Col. Wade Sokolosky (Ret.)
from Lee for “unflinching courage.”
Tuesday, May 6, 2025: “The Battle of Antietam Paintings of James Hope” will be discussed by Bradley M. Gottfried, Ph.D., an educator for over four decades, and Certified Antietam Battlefield Guide. His discussion about James Hope is fascinating. James Hope was a Civil War veteran and artist who created five large panoramic paintings of the Battle of Antietam between 1888 and 1892. These paintings are considered to be some of the most important and detailed depictions of the battle ever created.
Will Greene
Eric J. Wittenberg
The new season begins on the Tuesday after Labor Day and everyone is invited. Meetings are held at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Registration begins at 6:15 pm and programs start at 7 pm. The visitor fee is $10, and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues. For more information, please contact President John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com, or call him at 404-229-9425. Or, visit the www. Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com to learn more about member benefits, activities, how to become a member, or renew your current membership. The group’s Facebook page also has additional information, news, and frequent updates.
Billie Mae Outlaw, 3D Ceramic
Huntoon, 2D
Huntoon is
Golf Tips
Nicole’s Golf Notes
Buy Into Your Golf Game Prior To Shot
STORY BY NICOLE WELLER LPGA/PGA GOLF TEACHING PROFESSIONAL
Nicole Weller instructs local area golfers at Compass Pointe Golf Club in Leland. Feel free to submit your question or topic for the Nicole’s Notes column via her website ‘Contact Nicole’ page. For more information on Nicole and her tips / videos, visit www.nicoleweller.com.
Think about something you’d really like to have or own…a car, an electronic device, a menu item at a restaurant you like, a good new book or anything else. What’s the process to achieving it? There’s usually an awareness of its existence and then imagining yourself happily with it and all the things it might look, feel, taste or sound like that appeal to you. If you are ‘sold,’ then you have a short-term or long-term plan to acquire it in which you’re excited to own or receive it. So how does that relate to golf?
When getting ready to create our next shot, do you Buy-In with the same excitement and imagery as you would for the item you’ve imagined and want or do you worry and imagine the most awful possible result and then keep stressing about it so you can’t produce a smooth swing or motion to create that shot or putt?
Imagining the car in a fender bender, or the favorite menu item coming out burnt or tasting awful, or even not being available, are not the images that make us move forward, yet many golfers keep bringing up the worst possible scenarios before and during a shot. Golfers can train themselves, like the best players do, to focus on the
good goal and not the possible failure.
The keys to an effective and enjoyable shot begin in the heart and mind, not in the physical motion (that’s the last step that’s already been set in motion by how you feel or picture it). Believing is Seeing, not the other way around. You need to Attract how things will look if they happen the way you want. You can also Attract the things that you don’t want — it just depends on how you focus and involve your energy. Worrying about if you fail in front of others, seeing a golf ball plop into the water or go out of bounds or yipping a putt will have a great chance of coming to fruition if you focus your energy, emotion and images on that.
the emotion and image you want and train yourself to stay attentive to your good intentions and emotions – how it feels it the most important thing. Buy-in, Plan (not worry) and then get excited about what’s going to happen. I have students start each shot standing behind the ball saying “I can’t want to _________________ (smash it down the fairway, hit it effortlessly, roll it into the hole at
6:30, hear a solid chip…).”
Without a caddy, you need to coach yourself into the shot and then buy into it with your head, heart and gut. A caddy can help talk you into it and help you stay on task, but that’s what makes golf mostly an emotional game (and then mental and then physical)…it’s quite a challenge to manage ourselves for a round of golf. Keep paying attention to your good intention!
You are the captain of your emotional and mental ship, so change the channel and keep your eyes on the final good result, not on what you fear. There is no room for fear or doubt if you are 100 percent enjoying what you’re about to do. Own
Art Beat
A Place For Artists
Barn and Beach and Barn and Beach Too
STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM
The Southport area is home to a vibrant community of artists and craftsmen, including fine artists, potters, sculptors, and woodworkers. However, finding opportunities to sell their work can take time, as many existing venues are already full. Fortunately, we have a few co-op galleries in Southport, such as Franklin Square Gallery, operated by the Associate Artists of Southport, and Artisans on Howe, run by the St. James Artisans. In addition, several fine galleries, antique malls, and gift stores support local artists by selling their work. A new type of storefront, Barn and Beach, has also emerged, offering artists space to showcase and sell their handmade goods alongside vintage and decorator items. This store, run by an artist, has brought a fresh perspective to Southport’s art retail scene.
“I love being around artists, young and old,” said Francesca Clemmons, Barn and Beach Designs owner. “I decided to take a leap and go out on my own and create my own work and give a place for other artists to sell theirs as well. Barn & Beach Designs started in a barn here in Brunswick County. I’d spend days and nights creating furniture, art, and up-cycling whatever I could get my hands on.
I opened a brick-and-mortar store 2014 on Long Beach Rd, some 900 square feet. We outgrew the space and moved into a larger one. Unfortunately, I lost that to Hurricane Florence. I then moved down to Howe Street in Southport. I outgrew that space, too. So, we ended up in the 10,000 square-foot shop we are in now. In February of this year, we added a second location, 6,000 square feet. Both
places are on Old Long Beach Road. As a twist, we will be opening a third location this fall. Details are coming soon, but I can say it is a completely different aspect of what we are doing now. We are very excited about this next venture.”
Barn and Beach and Barn and Beach, Too, sit near each other next to the movie theater on Long Beach Road. “I represent close to 200 artists of all sorts. From jewelry, soap, candles, essential oils, pottery, cards, textiles, and clothing, to painting, sculptures, fine art, furniture, and more. Most artists create custom items, so we can make them for you if you can’t find them,” said Francesca. “Along with these amazing folks, we have a coffee shop in our flagship store, a bookstore, and an architectural salvage room. We have classrooms where we offer a variety of classes throughout the year. These are all listed on our Facebook events page. We also offer these rooms to local groups to use for meetings. We have a puzzle and seed exchange table that has become very popular, “ she said. “Our customers have truly become family to us. We spend a lot of time talking with, laughing with, and even crying with them. You learn their stories and who they are. We love the little community we have built here in Southport.”
The 17 acres of land that the property sits on recently became certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat. “We’ve
created a community garden on the property and are converting an abandoned putt-putt golf course into a garden space where folks can walk around, sit, and enjoy nature. Our staff is part of what makes B&B a wonderful shopping experience. They are one of the many reasons we have been so successful. I can’t thank them enough for their love, support, creative ideas, and motivation. One of the reasons I love this community we have built with Barn & Beach Designs is being around truly talented folks regularly. I love blending ideas, learning from their experiences, and knowledge of their field.”
Creativity and a love for art runs in Francesca’s family. With her mother being creative and highly resourceful, Francesca found a strong love of art at a young age. “I took all the art classes I could in high school and college—painting, textiles, pottery, drawing, printing, design, and mixed medium, to name a few. Painting was my passion. I spent
time learning from fellow artists the trade of large murals, faux finishes, and stage props and scenes for theater. I loved every minute of it. So, I branched out again, used all I learned, and taught in private schools for 17 years, 13 here at Southport Christian School.”
Being a resident of Brunswick County for almost 20 years, Francesca has settled here after a lifetime of moving around. “I had an amazing childhood. I am a product of the United States; with hippie parents, we were always moving and traveling,” she said. “ I was born in California, spent a lot of time in different parts of New Jersey and Georgia, lived in New York, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and several areas of North Carolina. The beauty of the coast brought me to this area,” she said. “It’s a wonderful place to raise a child, especially a son. Mine spends most of his time in the water and fishing. We have made Oak Island our home with two dogs and my fiancé.”
There are many opportunities for ven-
Art Beat
dors coming up at Barn and Beach. The first Sunday of each month is Barnfield, a flea market where fun finders, plants/food vendors, and artists and crafters set up to sell their wares. The events run from 10 am to 3 pm.
Fall Fest is Saturday, Oct. 5. From 9 am to 4 pm, artists and crafters, food trucks, and live music will be on site.
“Space is still available for these events if you are interested in sitting with us. All events take place our the backfield,” Francesca said.
For more information, email barnandbeachdesigns@gmail.com or call 910-363-4995.
Come and treat yourself to beautiful food and hand crafted cocktails. It’s always a great day to celebrate at Southern!
SOUTHERNSOUTHPORT@GMAIL.COM @SOUTHERN_AGATHERINGPLACE JOIN US FOR DINNER WED.-SAT. 4:30-9PM BY RESERVATION ONLY for reservations and menus: southernagatheringplace.com 105 E BROWN ST. SOUTHPORT • 910-931-0786
Local, beautiful, creative - a different way to dine
Carneiro
Broussard Lee Ann Walker
Sherol Lappala
Deutsch
Verilyn McKee Sarah Smith Brian Quinn Katherine Hufham
Kim Anne Russ Pamela Frandano Fred Fiss David Thorp Myles Williams
Moss
Pivarnik
SPOTTINGS
The Foundation of Brunswick Community College (BCC) announced the continued support of the Sons of the American Legion Post 503, whose generous contributions have been instrumental in providing scholarship opportunities and support to active-duty military, veterans, and their family members.
Since 2013, the Sons of the American Legion have consistently supported BCC, and their contributions have significantly impacted the lives of our students. Their support has provided a dedicated nursing student scholarship and played a vital role in supporting the PAVE Program. This institutional work-study initiative has been a lifeline for veterans, helping them gain employment while pursuing their education. It has bridged the financial gap between what the GI Bill provides and the total cost of education, including living expenses, for many of our students.
“The ongoing support from the Sons of the American Legion is a testament to their dedication to our veterans and their families,” said The Foundation of BCC Executive Director Teresa Nelson. “Their contributions provide crucial financial support and affirm the value of education and career development for those who have served our country.”
The Second Annual Tide Sit-In, organized by local photographer Katie Dorsett Dye of Katie D Photography, attracted 335 contestants and raised $3,253 for Oak Island and Caswell beach Turtle programs. Meghan Mattos of Bolivia outlasted everyone as the tide rolled in and the sitters rolled out!
Community School Supply Drive
Dosher To Collect Back To School Materials
The fourth annual “Operation School Supplies” at Dosher Memorial Hospital is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 8, between 9 am and 1 pm. Local residents are invited to drop off new school supplies at the hospital front entrance, which will be donated for the benefit of students served by Communities In Schools of Brunswick County. Participants will be able to “drive through and drop off” donations without having to leave their cars.
This event will be held in conjunction with the Communities In Schools annual Back to School Supply Drive which takes place each August, when collection boxes can be found at their thrift shops. Dosher looks forward to hosting an alternative location for this event, with the convenience of a drive through arrangement. The school supplies collected enable every student to be prepared for the school year by having the tools they need to succeed.
Needed supplies include the following:
• Headphones or ear buds
• Crayons
• Loose leaf paper, wide and college ruled
• Colored Pencils
• Glue Sticks
• Dry Erase Markers
• #2 Pencils (not mechanical) and erasers
• Pencil pouch for binder or supply box
• Two-inch 3 ring binders
• Composition books wide ruled
• Spiral notebooks and dividers for 2-inch binders
• Three-inch 3 ring binders
• Spiral notebooks and dividers for 3 -inch binders
• Blue or black ink pens
Call Dosher Community Relations with any questions about this event at 910-457-3900.
CALENDAR
August
We’ve included events here that were scheduled at press time, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change.
AUG
3
Food Truck Rodeo — Southport
Approximately 20 food vendors from around the region will be on hand offering a wide variety of tasty treats from 11 am to 3 pm on Bay Street in front of Fort Johnston. There will be live music as well, so plan to sit and stay a while. See story else where in this issue for more details.
AUG
6
Explore the Davis Canal
Take a guided kayak your in Oak Island’s Davis Canal. Paddle difficulty is easy for this 2-hour trek, and the fee includes rental equipment. The paddle starts at 10 am at the SE 31st Street kayak launch (behind the Rec Center). Visit https://parksrec.egov.basgov.com/ oakislandnc/Search?TagId=776 to register. Another kayak trip is scheduled for Aug 22.
AUG 7
Story Time By the Sea
Children 12 and younger are invited to listen to a coastal-themed story and make a craft to take home. Storytime is on the observation deck at Oak Island’s cabana, SE 46th Street and Beach Drive. The program is 10-11 am.
AUG 8
School Supply Collection — Dosher Memorial Hospital
Dosher staff is hosting its annual collection of school supplies (see story in this issue for details about supplies needed). The drop off is at the hospital main entrance, 924 N. Howe St., from 9 am to 1 pm; it is a drive-through style drop off.
AUG
10-11
The Fleet is In! Navy Ship Model Show BATTLESHIP NORTH CAROLINA hosts this ship model show, highlighting the WWII era, with with examples of battleships, destroyers, cruisers, submarines and more on display. Four guild groups will be displaying their models
and also demonstrating model-making techniques. The presentation is free with admission, 8 am to 5 pm on Saturday and 8 am to 2 pm on Sunday. The battleship is moored at 1 Battleship Road NE.
AUG
13
2nd Tuesday Talk, Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Court’s in Session
The Southport Historical Society hosts Brunswick County historian Gwen Causey, who will share the history of what seemed to be the ever-moving Brunswick County Courthouse. Since the county was established in 1764, the courthouse has been in Brunswick Town, Lockwood Folly, Smithville (Southport) and its current location in Bolivia. The talk starts at 10 am at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St. Call 910-457-6237 to reserve your seat.
AUG
16
Crabbing to Cuisine
Join Steve’s Crab Shack learning all about the Blue Crab! Discussions will include methods of catching crabs, types of bait, local areas where crabbing is permitted, and how to prepare and steam your catch. Participants receive hands on practice in picking Blue Crab for a taste test. The class is 6-9 pm at the Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive. Visit https://parksrec.egov. basgov.com/oakislandnc to register.
AUG 17
Dutchman Dinghy Dash
This third-annual cardboard boat race takes place in Dutchman Creek (Fish Factory Road, Oak Island). The event brings together multiple first responder agencies, town government departments, local businesses and residents who all have the same goal — complete the course before their boat sinks! Registration begins at 10 am, and the races start at noon. Check out our story on the Dash elsewhere in this issue.
SEPT 4
Masonboro Island Eco Tour
Wrightsville Beach Eco Tours leads this 2-hour excursion which includes a shell hunt and eco-education talk. Children will be encouraged to use what they find to make an art project. The cost is $75 and is for anyone ages 8
and older. The tour is from 1 to 3 pm. Visit https://apm.activecommunities. com/townofleland/ to register online or register in person at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
SEPT 7
Sunset on Summer
Oak Island bids farewell to another summer season with its now annual Sunset on Summer celebration. Enjoy live music, adult beverages for sale and children’s events, 11 am to 8 pm at the Middleton Park Complex, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive.
Summer/Open Air Markets
The Oak Island Farmers & Artisans Market
Enjoy ocean breezes and find fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and more. The market runs from 8 am to1 pm on Mondays through the season at the Middleton Park Fields, SE 46th and Dolphin Drive. A pirate-themed playground and splash pad are adjacent to the market fields.
Southport Summer Market — Wednesdays
Find this year’s market in its new location, adjacent to the Southport City Gym, 209 N. Atlantic Avenue. Browse for foods and goods from local growers, crafters and artisans, 9 am to 2 pm. The Market will run every Wednesday beginning May 1 through the end of August except July 4th week.
Olde Southport Village Shoppes Farmers Market — Wednesdays
The Village Shops spill out onto the courtyard with vendors and artisans joining in to offer a wide variety of goods. The Market is on Wednesdays though August, 9 am to 1 pm at The Village, 1102 N. Howe St., behind the Smokehouse restaurant.
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,. August’s Anchors Aweigh program is the 14th from 11 am to 3 pm, entitled “Getting the Message Through: Cyphers and Codes.” 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
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)
Aug 1 — Rev & The Flying Flamingo
Aug 8 — Double Cherry Pie
Aug 15 — Todd Beane
Aug 22 — Double Cherry Pie
Aug 29 — Now Cat
Bands by the Beach — Oak Island
Amphitheater at Middleton Park fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive
Concerts start at 6:30 p.m. — Bring chairs or blankets; food trucks on site
Aug 2 — Autumn Tyde
Aug 9 — The Tams
Aug 16 — The Salty Dawgs
Aug 23 — LunaSea
Aug 31 — The Main Event Band
Concerts in the Park — Boiling Spring Lakes
Take blankets, chairs and your friends to concert at Spring Lake Park, 210 Pine Road. Concerts are 6-8 pm
Aug 2 — The Doorsmen
Movies in the Park — Boiling Spring Lakes
Enjoy movies under the stars at the Recreation Center, 1 Leeds Road
Bring blankets or chairs and snacks — movies start at 7:30 pm, and a $2 donation is suggested
Aug 9 — “Raiders of the Lost Ark”
WINE, BEER AND COFFEE
American Fish Co
150 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport
Gorgeous views at this waterfront bar, live music, and great conversations; now open for the season!.
Haven
307 N. Howe St., Southport
This downtown spot features “bites, beer, gelato, wine” with space for live music too. Tuesdays feature live music and wine tastings, Fridays have live music and beer tastings, and there’s live music on Saturday too..
Royal James
109 E. Moore St., Southport
Southport’s brand new rum and tequila bar in the heart of downtown; also serving signature Cuban sandwiches and other tasty salads and snacks.
Southport Coffee Co. & Kitchen
130 E. Moore Street, Southport Coffee, beer and good food, and an outside courtyard and live music too.
SILVER COAST WINERY TASTING ROOM
105 N. Howe St., Southport
Brunswick County’s first and only winery and original Craft Beer Bar. Check Facebook for specials, tasting events, and snack tray offerings.
Southport Suzie’s
4956 Long Beach Road (Big Lots shopping center)
Frozen yogurt with a toppings bar, desserts, wine and craft beer, charcuterie, and wine tastings. Mondays are Speakeasy night (featuring various speakers), Wednesdays feature wine tastings, trivia and bingo are on Thursdays and live music is on Sundays.
Southport Tap & Cellar
827 N. Howe St., Southport
Offering craft beers brought in from across the State. Check Facebook for food truck appearances and trivia nights.
The Mullet Bar
112 Yacht Basin Drive
Open during tourist season, with a great view of the boats coming and going.
THE WINE RACK
102 W. Brown St., Southport.
The shop offers wines, cigars, coffees and accessories and a cozy patio area to relax with a glass of wine and enjoy live music.
THE PUB OF SOUTHPORT
1513 N. Howe St., Unit 10, Southport
Check the Pub’s Facebook page for drink specials and food truck appearances. Sports programming on eight TVs and live music too! Bar swag bingo on Tuesday nights.
TIKI TAVERN
104 E. 8th St., Southport
Seating available outdoors, with games, trivia, music and open mic nights; check Facebook for details.
UNCORKED BY THE SEA WINE SHOP & GALLERY
602 N. Howe St. Southport
Shop for a wide variety of wines and craft beers, call 910-454-0633, or shop online at www.uncorkedbythesea.com. Collector wines, crystal stemware and other great gift items also available.
Crossroads Gathering Place
128 Country Club Drive, Oak Island
Enjoy coffee, mimosas and other tasty beverages and treats on the huge
CALENDAR
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.
Don’t see your event or location listed? Try as we might, we don’t catch everything, so to be sure to be included send your events to lisa@southportmag.com before the 20th of each month!
112 OCEANGREENS LANE, CASWELL BEACH, NC | 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,593 SF | Located in the desirable Ocean Green’s community in Caswell Beach, this charming townhome is situated on the 6th hole of the Oak Island Golf Course and comes fully furnished. Enjoy watching golfer’s tee off from the comfort of the large screened-in back porch. There is a two-car attached garage, vaulted ceilings in the main living area, and abundant cabinet and closet space. Just a short stroll or golf cart ride to the beach, community pool and tennis courts. Currently listed at $619,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Tim Wendt at (980) 225-4990 for more information or to schedule a showing.
1027 SOFTWIND WAY, SOUTHPORT, NC | 4 BR, 3.5 BA, 2,700 SF | Move-in ready, this house requires zero fuss to start your new chapter. The exterior boasts a crisp, contemporary architecture, promising low maintenance so you can focus on living, not chores. The home itself sits on a propriety-sized lot, invitingly landscaped to perfection, framing your personal enclave within this sought-after neighborhood. Beyond aesthetics, practical features include ample storage spaces and a two-car garage, ensuring daily convenience. Envision hosting your next gathering in a home that’s designed for those who thrive in sociable settings enhanced by luxury. Currently listed for $772,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Stephen Mills at (910) 232-2595 for more information or to schedule a showing.
MARKETPLACE
102 SW 20TH
STREET,
OAK ISLAND, NC | 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,140 SF | Newly updated approximately 5 years ago this house looks like new. Owners added vinyl siding, vinyl windows, flooring, roof and interior paint. The kitchen appliances are approximately 7 years old. There are 2 ground level storage areas with one just perfect to store your golf cart inside. The larger screen porch is perfect for drinking coffee in the mornings or just relaxing with friends. Located on a dead-end street means low traffic which offers more peace and quiet. The Davis Canal is at the end of the street and beach access is conveniently located at Middleton. A perfect home in a perfect setting. Also, the owners are selling the home completely furnished so there is no need to spend thousands of dollars to furnish the home. Currently listed at $610,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Karen Edwards at (910) 278-5213 for more information or to schedule a showing.
4929 SUMMERSWELL LANE, SOUTHPORT, NC | 3 BR, 2 BA, 1,862 SF | This stunning three-bedroom, two-bath home offers an idyllic lifestyle with amenities like a swimming pool, crabbing dock, and RV/boat storage. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by a meticulously maintained lawn nourished by an irrigation system operating from a separate meter. Inside, the upgraded kitchen features a central island, double deep sink with high faucet, large pantry, and a newly installed KitchenAid three-rack dishwasher, all beautifully accented by an oil-bronzed backsplash. The living room impresses with high ceilings,
built-in shelving, and a heavy-duty TV mount that swivels and extends for optimal viewing. Currently listed at $375,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Brooke Rudd-Gaglie at (910) 5121361 for more information or to 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.
1002 BONNER BUSSELLS DRIVE. 3 bed | 2 bath | $689,000. Distinguished single-owner ranchstyle home situated in the tranquil neighborhood of Smithville Woods. This exceptional property embodies comfortable living, offering an impressive array of amenities, including an expansive deck, a dedicated grilling pavilion, an inviting outdoor fire-pit area, and a conditioned 2-car detached garage with utility sink and ample storage room. This home is nestled along a secluded, lightly traveled street in a community known for its pride of ownership, this residence has the added benefit of being free from HOA dues. Inside you will discover spacious bedrooms, including a serene master suite with its own ensuite bathroom,
a well-appointed kitchen with modern appliances, abundant counter space, and a convenient breakfast nook for casual dining. The large living room has a propane fireplace that is fused by a 300 Gallon propane tank. The property’s exterior is adorned with lush landscaping, meticulously manicured lawns, and mature trees, enhancing its curb appeal. This home offers proximity to Southport Elementary school, several commercial shopping centers, dining establishments, parks, and is just a golf cart ride away from Downtown Southport! Call Myles Williams, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 619-9655.
106 N. WATER STREET, UNIT 210. WATER STREET CENTER CONDO. 1 bed|1 bath| $399,000. Embrace the extraordinary opportunity to own ‘The Stowaway,’ a thriving riverfront condo in downtown Wilmington, listed as a successful short-term rental on Airbnb. This fully-furnished unit on the second floor is thoughtfully equipped with all the essentials, providing a seamless blend of comfort and convenience in the heart of downtown. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Battleship and Cape Fear Memorial Bridge from your covered balcony that overlooks the river. Included with the condo is a coveted parking spot in the owners’ lot, ensuring stress-free parking in the bustling downtown area. With the added benefit of permitting short-term rentals, ‘The Stowaway’ presents an enticing opportunity for potential rental income. The Water Street Center Condos also offer basic cable and internet services at an affordable $700 per year. Immerse yourself in the allure of riverfront living and the success of ‘The Stowaway’ as a sought-after Airbnb rental. Schedule your showing today to experience firsthand the charm and
potential this property has to offer. Call Joey Kronenwetter, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 520-5035.
746 SKIPJACK CIRCLE, LOT 33.
$149,000.This beautiful .24 acre home site sits in the cul de sac, of one of Southport’s most sought-after neighborhoods near downtown Southport. The lot not only has gorgeous hardwood trees but backs up to Cottage Creek and would be the perfect place for you to build your dream home. If you like to be one with nature, the neighborhood offers amenities such as; gazebo and a pier/ dock where you can launch your canoe or kayak or just grab your beach chair and watch the sunsets over the marsh. Cottage Point community is tucked away but is just a short walk to downtown Southport where you can enjoy fine dining at the local restaurants, shopping or stroll the waterfront and watch the ships go by. Come see this gorgeous lot and get started on building your dream home today! Call Sarah Smith, Southport Realty Inc., (910) 4438000, for more information.
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.
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.
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.
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
