April 2014

Plein Air Paint Out: April 11-12

Jim McIntosh paints 'Eatery Row'

vol. two issue seven april 2014 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 1

vol. two / issue seven

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IN EVERY ISSUE:

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APRIL: plein air paint out Local and regional artists will take to the streets of Southport April 11th and 12th for the city's Plein Air Paint Out. Afterward, a 'wet paint' sale and artist meet and greet will be held.

4 letter from the editor Learn about our new fishing column, Scales

17-19 dining guide Discover the best eateries sure to please the most sophisticated palates

29 marketplace Everything for sale from refrigerators to real estate

34 spottings Check out photos of our neighbors living the coastal life to the fullest

35 occasions Check out this month's upcoming events

Nancy Schulte produced forward motion in a coastal watercolor painting depicting the Southport waterfront in last year's Plein Air Paint Out, sponsored by the City of Southport. Cover and inside photos courtesy of Cindy Brochure

CURRENTS

6 caring clean-up crew

Volunteers spruce up the NC Maritime Museum

8 city in waiting

Southport livens with annual Spring Festival

10 new president, more progress The fourth annual Dosher Memorial Hospital Foundation Gala

SHOWCASE 13 cover story

Artists return to Southport's streets to create works outside during the Plein Air Paint Out

SCALES

SAVOR

25 fish on

14-15

Oak Island's Pierogies does Polish fare right

20 cheers

The Grape & Ale offers picks for spring brews

HEALTH

Guidelines for spring inshore fishing

WEALTH

27 get your ground game on

How to protect your home with your garden

22 e-cigarettes

28 biz Q&A

23 going au naturel

HOMESTYLE

The unregulated option for smoking poses some risks without weaning Kris Beasley features recipes for making all-natural cleaners

Jewelry • Apparel Dave DeGroat Wood Carvings Jim McIntosh Watercolors Home Accessories Gifts and more... ...something for everyone!

New, Used, and Everything In Between

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SHOWCASE: p. 13

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editor

editor-in-chief

letter from the

owner/advertising

Bethany Turner bethany@southportmag.com

Kris Beasley kris@southportmag.com

ad designer Liz Brinker

contributing writers

Jenny Bowman, Becky Jones, Leslie Reschly, Greg Ochipa

distribution manager

Alan Beasley: (910) 612-3230 alan@southportmag.com Member of:

P

ART OF OUR GOAL—REALLY, OUR JOB—IN CREATING A COMMUNITY magazine is to build a monthly resource that covers the interests of most of our demographic. For us, that means offering something for each member of our community: old and young, man and woman, introvert and extrovert.

This month, you'll meet Captain Alan Beasley (yes, Kris' husband!), who is actually somewhat of an expert when it comes to fishing these local waters. He grew up in Brunswick County and came to know the resident fish well—which is why he'll be providing our new seasonal fishing column, Scales (page 25). For April he's covering the guidelines to spring inshore fishing—perfect for the novice and even encouraging advice for longtime fishermen. We hope you'll enjoy it!

For those who like to get their hands dirty in the garden, the NC Maritime Museum is hosting a Park Day on April 5th (page 6), wherein volunteers can help spruce up the grounds of the museum and Fort Johnston. Given that Earth Day and Arbor Day fall in this month, our Wealth column (page 27) offers advice on protecting your home and property by editing your garden, and we sat down with Hal Bridgers, owner of Bridgers Landscaping, Pools and Spas, for the April Biz Q&A (page 28). Our own Kris Beasley even weighs in on producing homemade, all-natural cleaning products on page 23.

Another philanthropic opportunity awaits in attending the Dosher Memorial Hospital Foundation gala (page 10). Those with an eye for elegance will revel in the lavish affair, held annually. Folks who enjoy the beauty of our area and wish to see it replicated by the hands of an artist will really enjoy the Plein Air Paint Out (cover story, page 13) and this year's Southport Spring Festival, which hosts a slew of arts and crafts vendors in Franklin Square Park.

Heck, we even have something for all our beloved Yankee trans- Jenny Bowman, contributing writer for Southport Magazine, was eager take home pierogi from Oak Island's new restaurant, Pierogies, to plants (you really do add to the vigor of this community, whether to give the Polish fare a try. Find out what she thought on pages 14-15. you say "y'all" or not)! This month's savor feature—penned by our Photo by Drew Pearson new addition, Jenny Bowman, who grew up on pierogi and knows them well—covers the new Oak Island restaurant, Pierogies (pages 14-15). If Jenny says the eatery's Polish delicacies are the real deal, we'll take her word for it—and can't wait to try them.

Of course, there's plenty more in store this month. Read on to see for yourself.

Until next time, y'all,

Southport Magazine is created monthly by Southport Media Company.

Please note: Opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of staff.

Call us to subscribe for only $25/year.

1496 Grace Rd. Southport, NC 28461 Phone: (910) 231-6204

www.southportmag.com 4 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

SOUTHPORT MAGAZINE SCHOLARSHIP OFFERINGS

Do you have an interest in journalism or photography? Students from South Brunswick High School may submit an article or digital photo album, in accordance with our prompt, to win a scholarship from Southport Magazine. The winner from each category will appear in our June edition.

Deadline for products: May 1st, 2014 For details, e-mail Kris@SouthportMag.com

southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 5

currents

caring clean-up crew:

Volunteers will join together to spruce up the NC Maritime Museum grounds Story by Bethany Turner What: Park Day When: Sat., April 5th • 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Where: NC Maritime Museum 204 E. Moore St., Southport Cost: FREE Info: www.ncmaritimemuseums.com

"D

URING WORLD WAR II, families grew Victory Gardens to ease food production and aid the war effort, but did you know, during the Civil War all of the contiguous forts in the Lower Cape Fear had soldier gardens to help feed the troops?” Lori Sanderlin, Curator of Education for the NC Maritime Museum at Southport, explains the impetus for the museum's latest project: a raised bed Victory

Garden. While the museum has been participating in Park Day—wherein volunteers help clean-up the museum grounds—for a few years, the Victory Garden is a task the history buffs are particularly excited to undertake.

The NC Maritime Museum at Southport has limited staff, relying on volunteers to tackle maintenance while employees plan engaging programs such as the monthly Third Tuesday Evening Adult Program, where speakers chat in-depth about unique historical interests. Thus, for the 2014 Park Day, being held on Saturday, April 5th, the museum is requesting volunteers to offer their time and talents.

Volunteers participate in a past Park Day to enhance the NC Maritime Museum "The museum is located on a at Southport. Courtesy photo historically significant site and is a

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proud steward of our maritime history," Sharon Venis, volunteer coordinator, explains. "The museum occupies the footprint of the original Fort Johnston soldier barracks. We continue to strive to interpret and educate visitors using the museum and grounds as a teaching tool."

Volunteers will be asked to clean out shrub beds and paint the museum doors and trim, as well as clean up the Fort Johnston Civil War fortification along the Cape Fear River. For their work, participants will earn hot dog lunches, free T-shirts, and badges.

Tools will be provided, and volunteers need to wear clothing and closed-toe shoes that can get muddy. Individuals need to supply their own yard gloves, sun screen and insect repellent.

"The community feels connected to our rich maritime history and experiences a sense of ownership and pride when they spend their free time lending a helping hand," Venis adds. "We have volunteers who are coming back for their third year— that’s as many years as the museum has been participating in Park Day. We work hard, but it’s really about having fun!”

Registration is required, she notes, even if it's at the last minute. To sign up, call (910) 457-0003 or e-mail sharon.venis@ ncdcr.gov.

southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 7

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AYS ARE LONGER, BIRDS are chirping, and azaleas—the pride of southeastern North Carolina—are blooming, exploding pops of color everywhere. It’s spring, and folks can celebrate the much-anticipated arrival of the season with the annual Southport Spring Festival.

For over 25 years, the Southport Spring Festival has welcomed the warmth of the sun and the blooming shrubs with a variety of activities for the whole family. The festival, co-sponsored by Downtown Southport, Inc. and the Southport-Oak Island Kiwanis Club, is held on Easter weekend in Franklin Square Park and brings over 14,000 visitors to downtown Southport. This year, the event falls on Friday, April 18th and Saturday, April 19th.

The Festival features food vendors, a chili cook-off, musical entertainment, arts and crafts, an azalea and plant sale, children’s activities, and a 5k run/walk.

This year, the food vendors will be set up closer to the Southport City Gym lot, Peggy Popelars, president of Downtown Southport, Inc., tells.

“There will be more space for tables and chairs providing a more conducive area for outdoor eating,” she says.

Along with the various food vendors, the Robert Ruark Chili Cook-off will be held Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guests can pay $5 to taste and

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

Tuesday-Sunday 45 Minute Tour Covering: • History and Culture 10am-4pm • Movie Locations (weather permitting) • Spectacular Coastal Views Adults $10 • Shopping and Dining Children $5

Tour departs from Southport Visitors Center • 203 E. Bay Street 910-713-3373 www.southportfuntours.com 8 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

Entertainment runs the gamut during the annual Southport Spring Festival, from rock 'n' roll to R&B. Courtesy photo

vote for their favorite chili. Local businesses, organizations, and neighborhood groups compete for the coveted People’s Choice Award and bragging rights to the title "Southport’s Champion Chili 2014." Who will be this year’s winner? That will be announced at 3:30 p.m. Saturday on the Franklin Square Park stage.

The amphitheater’s stage will offer two full days of entertainment. The music will consist of a variety of artists, groups and styles, including R&B, Christian, folk, horns, big band, rock and dance numbers.

There will be over 150 arts and craft booths—featuring handmade, original

pieces—stationed around the park. In the past guests have encountered ornate wood carvings, custom cutting boards and other kitchen items, jewelry, cooking spices, art, and more.

This year the Southport-Oak Island Kiwanis Club will be enhancing the kids’ activities, Popelar says. The Kiwanis’ Builder’s Club from South Brunswick Middle School will be on hand, as will Brunswick County’s Smart Start, providing free face painting and corn hole games. "In keeping with the Kiwanis mission, to serve and involve the youth of Brunswick County, there is more attention on kid’s activities that are free of charge," Popelars clarifies.

The Southport-Oak Island Kiwanis Club also will be fundraising with their annual azalea and plant sale, hot dog sale, and 5k run/walk.

The 5k run/walk, as of press, already had over 200 participants registered, and folks can still sign-up. Start time is 8 a.m. at Waterfront Park on Saturday, April 19th. The course goes clockwise through historic Southport and along the waterfront of the Cape Fear River.

Awards will be presented in first place for men’s and women’s age categories.

The cost to join in is $20 before April 19th and $25 on the day of the race.

Funds are used to provide services to the youth of Brunswick County.

For more information on the festival or to sign up for the race, chili cook-off or arts and crafts booths, visit www. southport-oakisland-kiwanis.org.

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new president, more progress:

The Dosher Memorial Hospital Foundation seeks to raise more funds than ever with its fourth annual gala Story by Bethany Turner What: Dosher Memorial Hospital Foundation Gala When: Fri., April 25th • 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Where: St. James Community Center 4136 Southport-Supply Rd., St. James Cost: $100/person, sponsorships available Info: www.dosher.org

"M

ANY OF US DONATE to colleges—though we're not teaching, we're donating so someone can," harps Dr. Joe Hatem, board member of the Dosher Memorial Hospital Foundation and co-chair of the foundation's most extravagant event of the year: the gala.

Likewise, the Dosher Memorial Hospital Foundation annually funds a number Board members of the Dosher Memorial Hospital Founof projects and purchases lab equipment dation convene to discuss the details for the foundation's for the hospital, ensuring doctors and fourth annual gala fundraiser. (from left, clockwise: Barbara nurses have state-of-the-art technology to Boland; Dr. Joe Hatem, gala co-chair; Tish Hatem, gala cobetter serve their community. Founded in chair; Lynda Stanley, president. Photo by Bethany Turner March 2010, the organization has already spent thousands in support of Dosher.

At a cost of $33,000, the foundation they or someone they love will inevitably replaced an obsolete blood culture ana- need to look to Dosher for healthcare. Dolyzer for the laboratory. The group also nations to the foundation, then, are investwas responsible for underwriting the cost ments in personal health and wellness.

The gala is one way folks can donate to of a community health fair, providing the organization—and in return they reresidents with free and low-cost health screenings and a wide variety of health ceive an evening of luxury. "It's probably education and information. The founda- the most elegant event in the area, and we tion supplied a $5,000 grant to Dosher’s want to keep it that way," Tish Hatem, gala Occupational Therapy department to co-chair, asserts. "We do everything we can purchase costly compression bandages to pamper our guests for the evening, to for Lymphedema patients who other- make them feel special, and to thank them wise could not afford them. And this past for making us successful."

This year's gala will take place on Friyear, the Dosher Foundation joined with the hospital’s Board of Trustees and the day, April 25th at the St. James ComDosher volunteers to pay for an exten- munity Center from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. The sive, long-term service excellence train- Andrew Thielen Big Band, clad in tuxedos, will entertain with classic tunes. Mr. P's ing initiative through the Studer Group.

"This training is our opportunity to Bistro will provide a dinner of heavy hors hard-wire our service throughout the d'ouevres while cocktails are served. "We hospital, so that regardless of when any- have valet parking and a red carpet," Mrs. one comes into the hospital, they will all Hatem notes. "There's a vintage photo of receive the same level of service, ensuring the hospital on the save the date and the consistency," the new foundation presi- invitation. It's very elegant: trumpet vases, dent, Lynda Stanley, explains. "It will be silver, wonderful floral arrangements, and patient-focused, and our mission is to be wonderful food. There's an ice sculpture of the friendliest hospital in North Carolina." our logo each year, and it's our cold seafood While medical equipment, training and bar, including shrimp cocktail and salmon. renovations come with a large price tag, We don't have raffles or auctions—we're through generous donations, the founda- there to thank the sponsors, to entertain tion is able to curb the hospital's capital them. They leave with a smile."

The night also offers guests the opportuspending. Ultimately, it keeps the price of healthcare in our community down—a nity to be the first to receive an update on benefit for all. As Dr. Hatem mentioned, the hospital, the foundation, and the adpeople donate to colleges so that others vances taking place. "What we want them may teach and instill skills and values in to come away with is how the hospital is our future leaders. Here, when a resident trying to improve the quality of healthcare, makes a donation to the Dosher Memo- how we are trying to improve the healthrial Hospital Foundation, even if they are care of the community—looking at our sernot in need of the hospital's services today, vice area and the population—and how we 10 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

are reaching out from the hospital as the central aspect into specialty clinics," Dr. Hatem adds. "We're opening an urgent care, we're doing this major renovation [of the patient rooms], so we try to get people in the room who are going to have a wonderful evening, who care about our hospital, and they can see how the staff, nurses and doctors feels about the hospital—because a lot of them are there."

Though Stanley was recently named president of the foundation, she has a long history with Dosher. She has served at the hospital for the past 28 years in a variety of positions, including lab manager and Chief Operating Officer. Stanley has received her “Fellow” status with the American College of Health Care Executives (ACHE), and she currently serves as treasurer of the Carolina Sandhills Area of ACHE. With a Bachelor of Science degree in medical technology from UNC Greensboro and a master's in health administration from Central Michigan University—among her membership with a plethora of organizations and boards—Stanley's well-rounded resume should allow her to successfully lead the foundation.

"I am so glad to be at a point in my career that I can shift gears and take all that I’ve done over the past 28 years to support Dosher operationally to the philanthropic side to help ensure access and quality care for those we serve through the efforts of the foundation," Stanley shares. "My vision is that we will work together as a community through our outreach efforts to build relationships that will sustain and move Dosher Hospital forward addressing the healthcare needs and quality of life."

Kirk Singer, Director of Community Relations for the hospital and past foundation president, affirms the importance of the organization. "More and more, as time progresses, hospitals are depending on their foundations to assist them in

keeping the cost of healthcare down and being able to provide comprehensive care to the community in a number of ways," he says. "The Board of Trustees of the hospital, a little over four years ago, had the insight to begin a foundation to give people an avenue to enhance their healthcare. Our board members of the foundation are all volunteers, and they give a lot of time, just like our trustees do, to this organization. It has made a difference, and it will probably make even more of a difference down the line."

Last year's gala raised over $40,000 for the foundation through ticket sales, sponsorships and gifts. As the amount collected through each gala grows annually, the foundation board is hoping to top last year's number. Part of those funds will help cover the cost of Dosher's current renovations: moving from semi-private patient rooms to private rooms. Though the hospital received an $8.5 million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for the upgrade, the hospital is expected to return those funds over the next 40 years.

"That's one of the things I say often, is that we've done a lot of hard work getting the loan—but it's a loan," Stanley urges.

"That will be one of the opportunities the foundation will have to help secure healthcare in our community: to help pay off that loan and help secure private rooms for our community."

Singer reports the foundation's goals are even broader. "We're looking at not only enhancing within the four walls of the hospital, but going beyond the walls and pursuing opportunities to take our care to each of the communities to serve them better," he tells. "That's what we'll be sharing with the people during the gala: our vision of healthcare for Smithville Township and the surrounding communities in the years to come, and how people can help us."

Sponsorships for the gala are available in an array of levels from $500 to $10,000, or individual tickets are $100 per person.

Tickets and sponsorships both may be reserved and paid for with a credit card online at www.dosher.org, or donors may download and print the registration form and mail it in with a check. Further details are available on the hospital website.

"We have a great community of givers who have been identified already, whether it's through the board of trustees, the foundation board, or our volunteers—we have a huge volunteer population," Stanley finishes. "We have a really great group of people who give to the hospital, so the foundation and the gala itself is an opportunity to identify more people who are willing to give of their time or their dollars to help support the hospital—to secure and improve their healthcare."

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MUSICAL APPEARANCES

a painter's delight:

Blue Sea Coffee Shop 7916 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island • 620-7073 Every Fri.: Open Mic, all artists welcome, 7 p.m.

Artists return to Southport's streets to create works outside during the Plein Air Paint Out

1 Leeds Rd., Boiling Spring Lakes 363-0018 • www.bslprd.com

4/24:The Hired Hands (bluegrass, musicians welcome to join for jam session with the band)

Story by Bethany Turner What: Plein Air Paint Out When: Fri., April 11th and Sat., April 12th 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Downtown Southport Cost: $20 to paint, FREE to spectate Info: www.cityofsouthport.com

Chaser’s Beach Club 5829 E. Oak Island Dr. Oak Island • 278-5252

Every Wed.: Dennis Walton Band and Open Mic, 8:30 p.m.

Every Tues & Thurs: Karaoke (Thurs. dedicated to country)

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ANDSCAPES FEED ALMOST every artist—tree-tipped mountains, the degrees of greens and blues within an ocean wave, and the expanse of the red-rock desert. Nature's beauty has long been a muse, even beckoning artists to create works outdoors. But it wasn't until the 19th century that working in natural light became a priority for the Barbizon school of art and Impressionism, and thus, created a movement celebrated today by thousands: En plein air.

The French phrase translates to "in the open air," and the International Plein Air Painters (IPAP) organization started in 2001 to promote plein air painting. Each September, the group hosts a worldwide "paint out." Last year, the City of Southport joined in the fun, and it will host another Plein Air Paint Out this Friday, April 11th and Saturday, April 12th from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A "wet paint" sale and artist meetand-greet will take place on Saturday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the lawn of the Fort Johnston-Southport Museum and Visitors' Center, located at 203 E. Bay St., behind the NC Maritime Museum.

Cindy Brochure, the Director of Tourism and Economic Development for the City of Southport, describes the atmosphere of the paint out as similar to a festival, "fun and full of creativity and culture."

"Southport is North Carolina's premier painting location for the serious plein air artist," Brochure asserts. "It is important to create cultural events by bringing local, regional and national artists to Southport. The 'Paint the Town' Plein Air Paint Out is a two-day event that will bring art into public view. Our goal is to support and encourage Southport as a growing artist's haven for all mediums."

Jim McIntosh, a renowned local painter, suggested the City of Southport take part in the IPAP Paint Out. "I have been painting

Boiling Spring Lakes Community Center

4907 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 454-4002 • www.thedeadendsaloon.com 4/5: Stoney Creek, 8 p.m.

4/26: Party of Two, 8 p.m.

Fishy Fishy Cafe

106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 457-1881 • www.fishyfishycafe.com *all shows from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted 4/4: Christine Martinez and Guy Phillips 4/5: Dave's Not Home 4/11: Cell Block 2 4/12: Rev and Guy 4/18: Uncle Hairy 4/19:The Dennis Walton Band 4/20: Randy Sadewater, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

4/21: Jenny Pearson, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

4/25: Heather Skipper 4/26: Christine Martinez and Guy Phillips

Nancy Schulte, an artist who transplanted to Southport from Atlanta, enjoys painting outdoors often. She created this watercolor during the city's last Plein Air Paint Out. Courtesy photo

over 40 years and have been painting 'plein air' seriously for over 10 years," McIntosh confirms. "With great success the first [Paint Out brought] several dozen artists to participate from several states, and it was a grand happening."

Likewise, artist Nancy Schulte is no stranger to painting outdoors. "It helps artists be more aware of changing light and weather conditions, which translates into our paintings," she divulges. "I do feel safer and more emotionally 'charged up' when other artists are around me. If observers come along, it's fun to see what they have to say."

Spectators are welcome to peruse the streets of Southport and get a peek of the artist's works as they come to life. Artists looking to participate must register online

by March 30th at www.cityofsouthport. com. The fee is $20, which includes lunch on Friday. Youngsters ages 10 through 18 may participate for free but must still register. This event is open to anyone who wishes to participate and has their own supplies

and easels; there will be no delineation between amateur or professional.

Schulte, who once served as the President of Georgia Watercolor Society while living in Atlanta with her husband, recently relocated to the area. Her art is featured in public and private collections, including Neil Diamond's. Currently she is active with the Associated Artists of Southport.

"We wanted to be closer to family and have a place our grandkids would enjoy coming to," she explains. "I had no idea what a wonderful artist's community Southport was. What a blessing! This plein air Paint Out is helping the public appreciate what we do."

For McIntosh, the area has long been a muse for his work. "Southport is such a neat place, with so many things to paint," he shares. "The waterfront is special, as well as many quaint homes on oak-covered streets. The commercial fishing boats, the marina for pleasure craft, sail boats that just wait to be painted in action or waiting to go again. The old yacht basin with so many things to catch your eye, and my rendition of 'Eatery Row' [our cover image]. This area is a painter's delight. We just need to take advantage of it."

The Grape and Ale

8521 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 933-4384 • www.thegrapeandale.com 4/5: Jimmy Mundane and The Unknowns, 7 p.m.

4/20: Joe Smothers, 7 p.m.

5/1: Kira Small, 7 p.m.

Odell Williamson Auditorium 50 College Rd., Bolivia 755-7416 • www.bccowa.com 4/24: Rita Coolidge, 7:30 p.m.

To list your monthly music in Southport Magazine, contact: bethany@southportmag.com

southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 13

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KAY JOLLIFF

(910) 523-0624 kayjolliff@gmail.com

770 SKIPJACK CIRCLE - REDUCED!!!! This home offers southern living- Southport style! Situated downtown by the marsh at Cottage Point, this home has 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths with a stunning open living area, custom kitchen and wrap around porches to enjoy outdoor living. Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS at $459,000.

Call Kay Jolliff (910) 523-0624

savor

Story by Jenny Bowman Photos by Drew Pearson

delicacy of the north:

Pierogies, recently opened in Oak Island, dishes up Polish dumplings to perfection

A

FEW WEEKS AGO MY husband, son and I decided to take a trip up from Ocean Isle, where we live, to visit with my folks on Oak Island where they vacation and plan to retire. We all grabbed lunch in Southport and went for a drive. About halfway down the island on Oak Island Drive I screamed, “Did you see that!” I could hardly get the words out, I was so excited. “Back there! On the left! There was a shop that said ‘Pierogies’ in the window.”

My Dad hit the brakes, we swung the car around, and we headed to the orange letters boasting our favorite food in the distance. Could it be real? I thought. A real pierogi store in the South!

Growing up in North Carolina, I knew this to be a far-fetched dream. You just can’t get good pierogi down here—not like the ones my Babci used to make or like the ones we would get in Philly while visiting my grandparents in Jersey each summer. No, here we were reserved to what we could find in the freezer section at our local grocer.

But, to my surprise (and delight) my dream was actually coming true. For Oak Island's Pierogies had been given life by owners—and fellow pierogi lovers—Merle and Debbie Waddingham of Pittsburgh, PA. And let me tell you, folks, these pierogi are the real deal!

The five of us burst through the doors and met Debbie’s smiling face at the counter. We inquired about what kinds of pierogi they had to offer: potato and cheese, potato and kraut, hot sausage. My mom and Debbie hit it off immediately, talking in broken Polish and sharing stories with each other.

We all exclaimed our gratitude to the Waddinghams for bringing Pierogies to town and piled up on a few dozen frozen varieties per household before heading home. But the real test came that night when we tried them—and, oh man, were they delicious.

So what is a pieróg, exactly? (Plural is pierogi or can be pierogies.) Well, it’s essentially a dough dumpling stuffed with savory goodness like potato and

14 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

grandchildren who had recently relocated to Wilmington. Debbie grew up eating pierogi, and as a parent, she made pierogi in the church where her daughter attended Catholic school growing up. “We always made them at the church, and if you ever wanted any, you just took them home," she told.

As Debbie went on to explain, making pierogi is not necessarily hard, but it’s time consuming to prepare the dough, cook the fillings and stuff the dumplings. Often, as I knew from what my Babci told me, groups of ladies traditionally would get together making hundreds of pierogi at a time and then share them among the group.

While we were chatting, a lady stopped in to ask if Pierogies Writer Jenny Bowman took home some potato pierogi from the restaurant for her family. She served them with browned butter, baked ham with horseradish, would be serving kolache any time soon. and kale and red cabbage.

Kolache, otherwise known as nut strudel, cheese or onion, hot sausage, or sauer- is a pastry roll that holds bits of fruit or nut kraut, to name a few fillings. The dough fillings like pineapple and cream cheese, is doughy—in other words, it’s hearty nut, or poppyseed. Debbie excitedly reand savory, sticks to your sides, and sponded, “We’ll have them next week!” complements the flavors of the fillings.

Customer Karen Gott told me, “My The dough is so good and unique that father’s family is Slovak; my grandsometimes I save the "crusts" of these parents came from Slovakia. And they delectable dumplings for last! You just make what we call kolache, the long boil or fry them, and pierogi aren’t rolls, and we love them. So I was hoppierogi until you drizzle them with a ing they would have them.” little browned butter. And voilà—you Karen shared my enthusiasm for have a famed Polish dish in hand. finding a family favorite locally. She reDebbie and Merle moved to Oak Is- ported that as soon as she heard about land to be closer to their daughter and the restaurant, “I called my mom and

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Merle Waddingham of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, relocated to Oak Island with his wife, Debbie, to be closer to their daughter. With the couple comes a new restaurant featuring Polish delicacies and homemade horseradish.

said, ‘You won’t believe it! They have a pierogi store right here!’”

But the real winner, besides the pierogi of course, is the horseradish.

Just like pierogi, good horseradish is hard to find in the South. Growing up my family always ate the beet kind with our potato pierogi, and Debbie is making that, too. She told me that she grates the horseradish root in-house and adds a few "secrets" to make it her own.

She told me, joking, “You eat half a teaspoon of horseradish a day—half a teaspoon of that, and you’ll never need blood pressure medicine.”

It is perfect—clears your sinuses as horseradish should, and a bit crunchy, unlike the kind you find in stores that is often mixed with other ingredients, such as mayonnaise. In other words, her horseradish is the real deal, too. Just add a little of her horseradish to your ketchup, Debbie went on to say, and it makes the best seafood cocktail sauce.

Pierogies has just introduced a larger menu including things like smoked kielbasa hoagies or hot sausage sand-

Debbie Waddingham is a friendly hostess in the restaurant where she makes fresh pierogi daily, a skill she practiced for many years cooking for the church where her daughter attended Catholic school.

wiches, and diners can make it a combo with chips and a drink.

My family and I stopped in to check out the expanded menu during the restaurant's ribbon cutting ceremony in early March. There was a warm, home-like feeling in the store; family and friends had gathered to celebrate.

Delectable goodies were placed out for guests to enjoy, including the horseradish and a pineapple and cream cheese kolache. And the family was decked out in—that’s right—pierogi costumes.

Pierogies is a family-run store offering fresh, delicious Polish food and a bit of personality as well. Debbie and Merle make pierogi and horseradish daily, so no matter which kind you choose, they are prepared fresh. In addition, the smoked kielbasa and sausages, as well as the Pittsburgh-famed ‘Super Dogs’ (a quarter-pound hotdog, friends!) are shipped from a long-time family-owned business straight out of Pennsylvania, a family that Debbie and her children grew up with. And the kolache are all made from Debbie’s own

personal recipes. This food is straight from the source and from people who know what they’re talking about when it comes to Polish cuisine.

Pierogies is located at 8017-A East Oak Island Drive. The restaurant is set up for take-away orders and is a great place to stock up on frozen pierogi that you can prepare at home, or just to grab a quick bite to eat. Debbie and Merle are there every day rolling, patting, stuffing and boiling pierogi, and they are both eager to join in a friendly conversation about the weather, what’s going on in town, and, of course, their food.

Stop in and grab a bite. (My family and I have already been back twice in one short month!) Try pierogi or a kielbasa sandwich, and don’t forget to add a side of horseradish—beet with the potato pierogi and regular with your kielbasa. I assure you, you will not be disappointed.

southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 15

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savor Turtle Island Restaurant & Catering

SEAFOOD SPECIALTY

6220 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 278-4944 Casual dining in a tropical setting, with caribbean-inspired seafood as well as steaks, chicken, pork and salads.

Atlantic Seafood and Steaks

5059 Southport-Supply Rd. SE, Southport 457-4477 • www.atlanticsouthport.com Casual dining with variety from seafood, steak, chicken and pasta. Known for its Calabash-style cuisine and low-country classics.

CAFES, DELIS AND GRILLS Baked with Love

302 N. Howe St., Southport • 454-0044 Offering sandwiches, salads, soups and quiche.

A gem of a café located on Southport’s main drag.

Bald Head Island Club 1 Salt Meadow Trail, Bald Head Island 457-7300 • www.bhiclub.net Offers options, from the Pelicatessen located poolside, to the pub-style Palms dining room or al fresco Palms Terrace to the Grille, the club’s primary dining venue. Full or temporary membership in the BHI Club is required to dine.

Beana's Kitchen

106 SE 58th St., Oak Island • 278-7209 Open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Beana's serves breakfast and lunch.

Bob's Dogs

The Blue Marlin 4419 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport • 363-4075 Serving up a menu to satisfy all palates, The Blue Marlin specializes in seafood, steaks and pastas in a fun, relaxed, Caribbean atmosphere.

8903 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 278-3456 • www.bobsdogsoki.com With custom hot dogs featuring an array of ingredients to home-style sandwiches like chicken salad and burgers.

Cape Fear Restaurant and Lounge

Castaway Keys

101 W. Bay St., Southport 457-9222 • www.capefearrestaurant.com Family-owned, Cape Fear Restaurant delivers excellent Southern-style cooking in the form of crabs, scallops and, of course, surf ‘n’ turf.

Dead End Saloon & Fish Factory Grille

4907 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 454-4002 • www.thedeadendsaloon.com Known for real Maryland crab cakes and Cream of Crab soup and offering fresh, local seafood specials along with great entrees, nachos, cheddar fries, and more. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway with slips for docking and a beautiful view, including sunsets. We belong to the NC 10% Campaign.

Fish House Restaurant

5710 57th Place W., Oak Island 278-6012 • www.bwpresort.com Offering items such as award-winning chowder and signature crab dip to home-made desserts and chef specials.

Fishy Fishy Cafe

106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 457-1881 • www.fishyfishycafe.com A sophisticated take on the dockside seafood café, Fishy Fishy serves up plates like shrimp ceviche, Cajun grouper bites, and cilantro crusted Wahoo.

Frying Pan

319 West Bay St., Southport • 363-4382 Featuring homemade sweet potato biscuits and fried seafood, as well as other delicacies such as crab salad.

Island Way Restaurant

1407 E. Beach Dr., Oak Island 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.

Jolly Rogers

5515 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island • 278-7060 The menu features seafood, from shrimp to oysters and more, broiled or fried.

1102 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-0240 Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Castaway Keys features a varying menu with items such as a classic Reuben, gator bites and crab nachos.

Chef Stephen Phipps of Mr. P's Bistro (309 N. Howe St.) bathes dishes in sauce during a special wine dinner held in February at the restaurant. Courtesy photo

Chaser's Sports Bar and Grill

8520 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island • 278-1500 Enjoy BBQ sandwiches, wings, fish 'n' chips and more at this sports grill.

Duffer's Pub and Grill

Jones Seafood House

6404 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 278-5231 Family owned and operated since 1964, this eatery offers seafood fried, broiled or grilled, plus charbroiled steaks.

MoJo’s on the Harbor

16 Marina Way, Bald Head Island 457-7217 • www.mojoontheharbor.com Featuring Southern classics like fried pickles and shellfish steam pots to global dishes such as Italian meat antipasto and Mediterranean-style shrimp and grits.

Provision Company

130 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 457-0654 • www.provisioncompany.com Established in 1933, Provision Company offers a la carte seafood sandwiches, conch fritters, steamed shrimp and more.

Shoals Club

100 Station House Way, Bald Head Island 454-4850 • www.shoalsclub.com A private membership club, Shoals Club emphasizes fresh ingredients and a twist on American dishes. This is especially true in its local grilled tuna, grouper and other seafood items, as well as its excellent steak.

Yacht Basin Eatery

122 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 363-4108 • www.yachtbasineatery.com Dishing up goods from both the North and South, Yacht Basin Eatery offers everything from hand-rolled

928 Caswell Beach Rd., Oak Island pizza, Jersey-style breads and authentic Italian, to South- 278-9299 • www.oakislandgolf.com Located at the scenic Oak Island Golf Club, the ern comfort foods and fresh seafood. grill serves up premier burgers and wraps, as well as entrees from prime rib to salmon.

MODERN AMERICAN

Eric's Grille

Live Oak Cafe

1671 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-9024 614 N. Howe St., Southport Offers old-fashioned, hand-patted hamburgers, 454-4360 • www.liveoakcafenc.com plus bbq, hot dogs, chili cheese fries and breakfast Serving creative cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, sandwiches and platters.

Live Oak Cafe offers dishes such as duck crepes, low-country gumbo, and baked scallops au gratin.

Greenlands Farm Store

668 Midway Rd. SE, Bolivia 253-9515 • www.greenlandsfarmstore.info 309 N. Howe St., Southport Farm-fresh, organic and natural ingredients— 457-0801 • www.mrpsbistro.com grown here, made here! Gluten-free and vegan Fine low-country cuisine, from crab-stuffed fish options offered. Enjoy sandwiches, salads, unique du jour to crab cakes and prime rib. sides and desserts.

Mr. P’s Bistro

The Pharmacy Restaurant

Little Bit's Grill

110 E. Moore St., Southport 5902 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island • 278-6430 457-5577 • www.thepharmacyrestaurant.com A classic burger joint, with onion rings and other Fine dining with home-spun appeal abounds at sides. Plus, breakfast is served, including pancakes The Pharmacy Restaurant. Enjoy everything from and bacon. gourmet chicken salad and fish tacos to blackened tilapia and Bouillabaisse.

Local’s Family Diner

832 N. Howe St., Southport 457-0444 • www.localsfamilydiner.com 8004 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island Within a warm and friendly atmosphere, Local’s 933-4103 • www.shaggerjacksoki.com Family Diner serves breakfast all day long and a With over 50 beer selections, Shagger Jacks ofseafood and entrée menu for lunch and dinner. fers an assortment of dishes from steamers to ribs and sweet curry chicken to tacos.

Shagger Jacks

southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 17

Loco Jo’s

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EVENTS Weekly Wine Tastings Every Thursday, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. • $5+ Uncorked by the Sea 602-A N. Howe St., Southport 454-0633 • www.uncorkedbythesea.com “Good Wines for a Great Cause” Wine Tastings benefit local non-profit organizations. Join us to enjoy great wines and hors d’oeuvres while helping out a worthy cause.

Daily Wine and Craft Beer Tastings Mon.-Thurs. and Sat., 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Grape & Ale 8521 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 933-4384 • www.thegrapeandale.com Taste our free samples or enjoy a top-shelf wine from our wine station for a small fee.

602 N. Howe St., Suite E, Southport • 457-9009 A burger joint with fish sandwiches, pulled pork and shrimp wraps. Offers select Vietnamese dishes, too, with over 60 beer selections.

Kopp's Kwik Stop II

3196 George II Hwy., Southport, 845-7700 Kopp's grill serves up a full breakfast (available for school kids before class starts, too), plus homemade lunches throughout the day.

Maritime Market Cafe

8 Maritime Way, Bald Head Island 457-7450 • www.maritimemarketbhi.com Serving breakfast classics as well as imaginative daily specials like seafood omelets or banana crepes. As well, lunch includes fresh sandwiches, salads and wraps.

Moore Street Market

130 E. Moore St., Southport • 363-4203 Open for breakfast and lunch, this market specializes in organic and fair-trade coffee as well as gourmet sandwiches crafted with Boar’s Head deli meats.

Oak Island Restaurant

BAJA CALIFORNIA Flying Fish Cafe

705 Ocean Dr., Oak Island (at the pier) 278-5504 • www.oakislandpier.com/cafe Nestled beside the Oak Island Pier, Flying Fish Cafe offers a panoramic view of the ocean and excellent West-Coast cuisine.

Dry Street Pub and Pizza

5002 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 201-1001 • www.bestbbqonthebeach.com Hormel ribs are slow-smoked in-house and meats are offered with a variety of sauces, from Eastern NC vinegar to Lexington-style red.

CHINESE Asian Taste

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 3, Southport 457-0988 • www.asiantastesouthportnc.com Take-out traditional Chinese food, with staples such as lo mein, sesame chicken, and General Tso's.

Oak Island Subs and Salads

INTERNATIONAL

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Sat.,April 5th • 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

BSL Community Center Boiling Spring Lakes, 1 Leeds Rd. 363-0018 • www.bslprd.com The Easter bunny is coming! We will be serving up hot pancakes and have milk, juice, and coffee for the adults. Following the breakfast, we will have egg hunts for ages 2-10. Egg hunts will begin sharply at 10 a.m., and we will have various age groups, in consecutive order. Pre-registration REQUIRED! Registration open until Wednesday, April 2nd. BSL Taxpayers, $3 per child. Non Taxpayers, $5 per child. To register, call Teagan Macklin, senior program manager, (910) 363-0018.

Russell's Place

Out of the Box Luncheon Fri.,April 25th • 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce, 4433 Long Beach Rd., Southport 457-6964 • www.southport-oakisland.com An opportunity for members of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce to meet and discuss issues important to business. Topic: Insurance. Discussion Leader: Sam Keziah, Past Chamber President and 25 years in the Insurance Industry. Admission/Fees: Bring your own lunch. RSVP Requested by 4/21.

Olde Brunswick General Store

1450 50 Lakes Dr., Southport • 845-2707 Made-to-order breakfast and lunch grill.

5700 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island • 278-3070 Serving breakfast and lunch until 2 p.m., Russell's place is a little restaurant with a lot of home cooking.

Side Street Café

5827 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 933-4615 Offering hand-pattied burgers, subs, shrimp, wings, hot dogs and more.

Taylor Cuisine Café

731 N. Howe St., Southport • 454-0088 Bald Head Marina at Deep Point • 457-7830 www.taylorcuisinecatering.com Putting its Southern style where guests' mouths are, this eatery offers "Taylor-made" fried string beans, fried green tomatoes, country fried steak and more in two locations.

Trolly Stop

111 S. Howe St., Southport 457-7017 • www.trollystophotdogs.com A staple in North Carolina, Trolly Stop is renowned across the nation for its one-of-a-kind hot dogs.

Tropical Smoothie Café

1671 N. Howe St. #1A, Southport 363-4908 • www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com The menu boasts bold, flavorful food and smoothies with a healthy appeal. Our items are made-to-order with fresh, simple, superior ingredients.

Wildlife Restaurant and Grill

4381 Fish Factory Rd., Southport 457-9953 • www.wildlifegrill.webs.com Serving a full range of items on our menu from breakfast to home-cooked meals.

18 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

4961 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport • 454-0950 Known for fresh salsa and margaritas; serves traditional Mexican dishes.

The Bar-B-Que House

Daily Wine and Craft Beer Tastings Any time, no appointment needed • $6 Silver Coast Winery Tasting Room 105 S. Howe St., Southport 777-5151 • www.silvercoastwinery.com Silver Coast Winery Tasting Room in downtown Southport offers wine and craft beer tastings seven days a week. Come in any time between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Mon.Sat., and 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday, and enjoy six wines or six beers (keep the souvenir glass) for $6.

8039 River Rd. SE, Southport, 454-4004 Shrimp in every style desirable, plus sandwiches; try entrées such as scampi and filet mignon.

San Felipe

PIZZERIAS

Taste of China

Oasis Bar and Grill

1671 N. Howe St., Ste. 1, Southport Serving authentic dishes, such as fajitas, enchiladas and chalupas.

BARBECUE

6302 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island • 201-9925 Here, flounder is prepared the old-fashioned way. Enjoy breakfast, too.

5705 E. Oak Island Dr. , Oak Island• 278-9040 From BLT's with avocado to Cajun and Reuben sandwiches, this deli serves up quality sandwiches.

Plaza Mariachi

4956 Long Beach Rd., Southport, 457-1838 Serving Cantonese, Szechuan and Hunan-style Chinese food.

Ports of Call

101 E. Brown St., Southport 457-5994 • www.drystreetpubandpizza.com Known for hand-made, 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.

Pizza Shack

6212 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 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.

116 N. Howe St., Southport 457-4544 • www.portsofcallbistro.com The eclectic menu offers 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.

POLISH

ITALIAN

THAI

Bella Cucina

5177 Southport-Supply Rd., Southport 454-4540 • www.belladiningnc.com Focusing on family Italian recipes, Bella Cucina serves up everything from fine and fresh local seafood to hand-tossed, New York-style pizzas. Aside from a decadent wine list, Bella Cucina also offers specialty martinis.

Joseph's Italian Bistro

5003 O'Quinn Blvd., Southport 454-4440 • www.josephsitalianbistro.com Armed with decades of experience and "secret" family recipes, Joseph's Italian Bistro appeals with candle-lit dining and fresh Italian continental cuisine.

JAPANESE Kobe Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi

8317 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island • 933-4405 Generous servings from the hibachi grill, as well as decadent sushi.

Tengu Japanese Steak House

4956 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport, 457-9398 Sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, hibachi, tempura and udon noodles all available.

MEXICAN Delphina Cantina

10 Marina Wynd, Bald Head Island 457-1222 • delphinacantina.webs.com Mexican cuisine with Spanish and Cuban flare, such as Churrasco Cubano and Pescado Especial— both with plantains.

Pierogies

8017-A E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island, 368-8098 Specializing in the Polish delicacy for which they're named, this restaurant is set up for takeaway order and also features 'Super Dogs,' kielbasa hoagies, and kolache.

Thai by the Sea

8300 E. Oak Island Dr. • 278-6420 Brightly decorated, Thai by the Sea offers traditional Thai including dumplings, with a large selections of dishes and spice levels.

Thai Peppers

115 E. Moore St., Southport 457-0095 • www.thaipeppersnc.us Serving decadent and creative Oriental food of the finest quality, prepared with care. A broad range of traditional Thai dishes and sushi are available.

BAKERIES/COFFEE SHOPS Ahoy Doughnuts

4922 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 278-6929 • www.ahoydoughnuts.com Fresh yeast-raised, filled and cake doughnuts, apple fritters, cinnamon rolls, monkey muffins, twists and more. Handmade daily on site in this family-owned doughnut shop.

Blue Sea Coffee Shop

7916 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 620-7073 • www.facebook.com/Blue.Sea.Cafe.NC All organic coffee. All our beverages made with purified H2O. Mom’s homemade baked goods.

Four house coffee blends, cold brewed ice coffee, tea & espresso bars, fruit smoothies, Chai tea, & more.

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.

Crazy Cake Chicks

5119 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 933-4253 • www.crazycakechicks.com We have a variety of cakes on our standard menu. We also prepare a full line of special order desserts including low-sugar, gluten-free, dairyfree, vegan, and seasonal items by special order.

The Confectionary

4346 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport • 457-9310 Featuring jelly doughnuts, apple fritters, cupcakes, muffins, peach cobbler, bagels and more.

Flying Pig Coffeehouse

6006 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 278-5929 • www.flyingpig.us Home of the Flying Pig, Green Swamp and Pig Bun; specialty coffee drinks, smoothies, chai, beans, bagels, desserts and conversation. Open year round, wi-fi, indoor and outdoor seating.

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 Wi-Fi. Comfortable inside and outside seating. Coffee catering available.

Side Street Bakery

lime pie, and carrot cake.

Staarr Cakes Bakery

200 Country Club Dr., Suite E, Oak Island 512-8881 • www.staarrcakes.com Made from scratch cupcakes, biscuits, and pies using the finest ingredients available. Coffee supplied by an NC roaster.

ICE CREAM PARLORS Dairy Queen

5701 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island • 278-5371* Featuring the iconic Blizzards, waffle bowl sundaes, and more frozen treats. *Call for other nearby locations.

Flava’s Coffee and Ice Cream

310 W. Bay St., Southport • 457-5150 Flava's allows guests the choice between many flavors, including death by chocolate, birthday cake, cookies and cream, and more.

Fuzzy Peach

5130 Southport-Supply Rd., Unit 108, Southport 363-4180 • www.thefuzzypeach.com A frozen yogurt bar where you can select your own flavors and toppings.

Leaky Tiki

6324 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 933-4503 • www.leakytikiinc.com Homemade ice cream and fudge since 2009.

Bawk-Meow Bawk-Meow

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Spike’s Dairy Bar

201 N. Howe St., Southport • 457-7611 More than just ice cream, Spike's offers great hot dogs as well.

Mon - Fri 10am -5:30pm, Sat 10am - 6 pm, Sun 12 - 5pm

105 West Saint George St., Southport • 363-4629 Locals suggest the cupcakes, lemon bars, key

122 N. Howe Street Southport, NC 28461 910-454-4533 www.cattailcottagenc.com

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303 N Howe Street, Southport, NC • 910.363.4275 • Open Everyday! southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 19

cheers

The best U.S. craft beers to sip this spring

By Candace Hobbs

T

HE EXPLOSION OF CRAFT breweries across the United States has opened up a whole new world for brew lovers. North Carolina is enjoying the same growth with a total of 86 craft breweries across the state as of November 2013. Unfortunately, not many have made it to the coast with distribution of their wares; however, it’s just a matter of time.

Last month, The Grape & Ale's Brew Club members enjoyed six selections of beers perfect for the season, including four from within the Carolinas and Virginia. Using ratings from our Brew Club "rate night" events—where members gather to sample several different beers and scale them to select their favorites—and scores from RateBeer.com (RB) and BeerAdvocate. com (BA), two rating agencies that utilize reviews from their website members)— I'm able to determine the brews we carry on our shelves. Here are five we're loving right now—and if you hurry, you may still find a couple of these selections on our two tap handles.

Enjoy our Seasonal Spring Menu

We’re Open Our Regular Hours: Tuesday through Saturday: Lunch: 11:30 am – 2:00 pm Dinner: 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm Sunday Brunch 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Black Perle Dark IPA RJ Rockers Brewing Company Spartanburg, SC ABV: 9.5% • 94 Points RB and BA RJ Rockers is perhaps best known for its Son of a Peach fruit beer, but they're making waves with the "Ales from the Dark Side" limited series, of which the Black Perle is included.

This is a beer that is a good transition from winter to spring, as hoppier brews infest the shelves where porters, stouts and darker ales dominated through the winter. The Black Perle is a roasted take on the typical IPA, leaning heavily on malts but focusing the flavor with the German Perle hop.

Go To IPA Stone Brewing Company Escondido, CA ABV: 4.5% • 96 points RB Stone is recognized for its intense IPA's, but the Go To was brewed to be a sessionable (easy drinking, lower alcohol content) IPA. There's still full flavor—by way of pine

20 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

Candace Hobbs, showcasing the Jade IPA by Foothills Brewing Company, is the owner of The Grape & Ale and a contributor to Southport Magazine. Photo by Kris Beasley

The Grape & Ale 8521 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island For more info on the brew club, call (910) 933-4384 or visit www.thegrapeandale.com and fruit notes—but you won't regret having a few as you might with an IPA boasting a higher ABV. To accomplish this, Stone employed "hop bursting," a new technique wherein lots of hops are added during the final phase of the brewing process, beckoning out the extreme flavors and aromas—namely the iconic bitterness of hops. This brew was birthed just in March 2014.

Jade IPA Foothills Brewing Company Winston-Salem, NC ABV: 7.4% • 97 points RB Earning its moniker from the bold, citrusladen flavor of Pacific Jade hops, this yearround NC IPA pairs tropical fruit notes with a white pepper finish. It's a clean IPA, exuding freshness and getting more bitter with Chinook and Citra hops.

Citra Mantra Otter Creek Brewing Middlebury, VT ABV: 5.75% • 96 points RB Using the Citra hop and crisp malts, Citra Mantra is like candy, giving off hints of oranges and grapefruits within the subtle dryness of the hop. As an unfiltered Pils Lager, Citra Mantra is a good, drinkable choice for those breaking into the craft-brew mania— or those desiring something light for spring.

Optimal Wit Port City Brewing Company Alexandria, VA ABV: 5% • 86 points RB This beverage is brewed in the Belgian witbier tradition, meaning wheat is also used in the brewing process, imparting fruity flavors and aromas, often harping on banana and clove notes, through fermentation. Optimal Wit won the Gold Medal at the 2013 Great American Beer Festival, which recognizes it as the best example of its style in the country.

Optimal Wit uses a particular yeast that gives off the aroma of plums, while tastebuds frolic in flavors of coriander, orange peels, and grains of paradise. The finish is crisp and the tantalizing fruit lingers, urging the drinker to take another sip.

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southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 21

health

by Leslie Reschly, BSN, RN

Leslie has lived in Southport since 1990 with her husband and three children. She is employed at Dosher Memorial Hospital as a Registered Nurse, and she has an interest in fitness and health.

E-cigarettes: the unregulated option poses some risk without weaning

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Y FIRST ENCOUNTER with an electronic cigarette, known as an e-cig, was about two years ago at a farm equipment auction. I found myself staring at the apparatus around the neck of several gentlemen, which reminded me of a Mr. T jewelry item (dating myself and you, too, if you understand this!) Little did I realize as I watched them inhale off their necklaces that the habit would soon sweep the nation in the big business industry of electronic cigarettes.

E-cigs contain liquid (often flavored) nicotine cartridges which are heated via battery to vapor which can be inhaled like a cigarette in a process known as "vaping." Although proponents praise the lack of tar and other chemicals found in tobacco, e-cigs do contain nicotine and other traces of chemicals often known to be toxic and cancer causing. There is no regulation of this industry therefore the exact nature of all content is unknown. Little research has been conducted thus far, so there is unconfirmed safety. In addition, some cartridges are manufactured in other countries leading to further unknowns as far as content and chemicals contained.

Marketed as an alternative to smoking cessation, levels of nicotine are still present in electronic cigarettes.

Nicotine as a drug has been found to be very hazardous due to its highly addictive nature. Nicotine enters the brain approximately eight to 10 seconds after inhalation. It locks onto brain receptors which cause the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine allowing the user to experience pleasure feelings and the sensation of energy. Unfortunately, this buzz effect quickly fades causing a craving for additional nicotine. Further, the user is found to develop tolerance to the nicotine effect, requiring more use more frequently to achieve the same feeling.

This addiction is complicated by

22 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

the unpleasant feelings experienced if you try to withdraw from or stop the substance nicotine. An individual may experience sleep disturbance, irritability, depression, restless feelings and anxiety, headaches and hunger. Extremely uncomfortable, these symptoms quickly abate with reuse of nicotine which makes it very hard to avoid the chemical.

Nicotine gum and patches contain small regulated doses of nicotine which can be titrated so an individual can decrease and wean off nicotine.

While physicians encourage the users of e-cigs to gradually decrease their levels of nicotine by the purchase of cartridges which have lesser amounts, there is no regulation to ensure these levels. Some experts note that the heating of both traditional cigarettes and e-cigs creates a form of nicotine that is even more addictive. In addition, opponents to the use of e-cigs point to the marketing of fruity flavors of nicotine as a way to attract young people and get them addicted.

While it is known that cigarette

smoke provides long-term risks such as damage to arteries and secondary smoke exposure, there is no research about these areas yet with e-cigs. Indoor use is often allowed but needs to be investigated to determine if there is second-hand hazards associated with vaping similar to those from smoking.

For an individual smoking half a pack per day of cigarettes, the yearly expense is estimated at $1,000 per year while the use of e-cigs is estimated to be $600 annually. While initial statistics have shown that the use of e-cigs rarely lead to a decrease or cessation of smoking, it does provide one option to help people to move toward a smoke-free lifestyle despite the hazards of continued nicotine addiction.

Please contact your physician if you are considering smoking cessation to determine if e-cigs or other treatments are best for you. One thing is certain—the benefits to your health will begin immediately!

going au naturel: All-natural recipes for everyday products or vodka • 40 drops geranium or lemon essential oil

Story by Kris Beasley

Y

OU KNOW THE SAYING, “The older you get, the wiser you get"? Well, I hate to admit it, but it’s true!

I feel like I lived most of my life pretty selfishly when it came to the environment. I didn’t start recycling until a couple of years ago. If I had just a few items of clothing to wash, I did.

Letting the water run while I brushed my teeth, no biggy! Make my daughter a sandwich with bread and pack in a baggie—why do that when they have prepackaged lunches with drinks and everything! If it was quick, easy and convenient, it was for me.

Now as I gracefully (cough, cough) approach age 50, I realize the old way of doing things was the right way. By that I mean the way my Grandmother did things: by hand, all natural. She would have never made mashed potatoes out of bag.

I think many of today's illnesses are brought on by our hurry-up lifestyles, prepackaged foods and toxic household cleaners. Since Earth Day is in April, I decided to research and make some homemade household products.

I think I am going to buy some stock in vinegar!

I hope you will try just one, if not more. These were some of my favorites. And try to put down your cell phone, turn off your radio, your iPad, and your tv while you are making these. Listen to the birds. Give yourself a break!

Alternative to Lysol Spray What you need: • Rosemary oil • Water • Glass spray bottle (I reuse old apple cider vinegar bottles and fit them with a spray bottle nozzle) How to: Add 50 to 100 drops of rosemary to 10 oz. of water. Mix in bottle and shake well before each use.

How to: Mix together and store in a spray bottle.

Why it works: Geranium as a plant naturally repels bugs, as does the scent of lemon.

Homemade Fly Trap What you need: • A 2L soda bottle • Serrated knife • Permanent marker • A piece of wire to hang your trap (optional) and a hole punch

Orange peels and white vinegar, combined in a mason jar and set for a couple weeks, will create an all-natural floor cleaner. You can also try it with tangerines or other citrus fruits. Photo by Bethany Turner

How to: Mix one part oil with two parts baking soda. Stir to make a paste. Apply to a cooktop or anything that has gunk on it. Let it sit overnight if it is really bad.

Use a toothbrush or sponge to scrub away the gunk.

Why it works: Baking soda is mildly abrasive and olive oil gets between the "gunk" and the surface to separate it.

Countertop and Floor Cleaner What you need: • Mason jar with lid • Orange peels • White vinegar

How to: In a mason jar, add however many orange peels you have and then fill the jar with white vinegar. Place the lid on the jar and let it infuse until the mixture itself turns orange. When it’s time to use the cleaner, just pour it into a spray Why it works: bottle and dispose of the orange peels.

Rosemary oil is antiseptic, with antiFor showers and sinks: Spray with bacterial and antifungal properties— orange vinegar, then shake baking plus, it's great for aromatherapy! soda over the area and scrub. For toilets: Spray with full-strength apple De-gunker vinegar, then sprinkle with baking What you need: soda and scrub.

• Olive oil • Baking soda Why it works: Orange gives the cleaner a sweet

smell, while its citric acid helps cut grease, and the acid in vinegar helps kill germs.

Homemade Air Freshener Diffuser What you need: • 1 Package of bamboo skewers • Essential oils or natural soap (like Mrs. Meyer's) • 1/2 Cup Water • Bit of vodka How to: To make the oil concoction, mix four to five drops of oils into the water. Add the vodka as an emulsifier to keep the oil and water mixed. Pour this into your container, add the skewers which will be your reeds, and flip them to refresh the smell.

How to: Draw a line around the bottle just below the tapered neck and cut along the line to separate the neck from the bottle. Remove the cap and insert the neck into the bottle upside-down so that it forms a funnel. Bait your trap with decomposing fruit—perhaps a piece of orange from making your cleaner— to attract flies. To repel bees, include a splash of vinegar. Empty dead flies and re-bait your trap regularly.

If you prefer a hanging trap, use a hole punch to create two holes at the top of the bottle, through both layers of the trap. Thread the piece of wire through the holes and bend the ends to make a handle.

Why it works: Flies become trapped because they cannot navigate their way back through the small opening.

Homemade Bug Spray What you need: • 8 oz. apple cider vinegar, witch hazel,

Everything made from scratch Great selection of beer and wine We now offer Gluten Free Pizza

Join us for Easter Sunday Brunch Featuring quiche, Belgian waffles, crab cakes Benedict and more!

Sun. 4/20 10-3 101 East Brown St., Southport • 910-457-5994 Mon-Fri 11-8 • Sat 11-3

southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 23

Happy Spring!

exercise

EVENTS @ the Boiling Spring Lakes Community Center 9 E. Boiling Spring Rd., Boiling Spring Lakes 845-3693 • www.cityofbsl.org

PESCADO Y AMOR PAINT PARTIES & CLASSES! If you are ready for a Creative day or night, Missy’s charming studio sets the mood for a personal class taught by the artist herself.

GREAT FOR Girls Night, Couples Night, Mother/ Daughter, Bachelorette Parties, Bridal Showers, Company Parties and Birthdays!

Come find your inner artist...

PAINT & POUR at Pescado Y Amor

8519 E. Oak Island Dr. • (910) 632-3908

www.pescadoyamor.com

1009 Captain Atkins Drive Marsh Creek in Smithville Woods

2600 sq ft home on Dutchman Creek, bulkhead, dock, boat lift, boat shed. 3-stories, 3 BR, 3 ½ BA. Living room soars to 18 ft with expansive water views. Den, screened porch, potting shed, workshop, walk-in attics.

Listed at $675,000

Cindy Sellers (910) 540-0301

Call

for your private showing appointment or view details online at

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-Tai Chi Video Class: Mon. & Fri., 10:20 a.m.; FREE -Tai Chi Flow Video:Wed., 9:20 a.m., FREE -Fit 4 Life: Mon. and Wed., 11 a.m. • $1 -Yoga/Pilates:Tues. 9 a.m. • $5 -Yoga w. Sandy:Tues. & Thurs., 6 p.m. • $5 -Cardio Fit & Fun:Wed., 10 a.m. • $1 -TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly): Fri., 11a.m.

-Cardio Chair Fitness: Fri., 11 a.m. • $1

@ the Brunswick Center at Southport 1513 N. Howe St., Southport 754-2300 • www.brunswickseniorresources.org

*All activities are free of charge to those 60+; those under will be charged $2 unless otherwise noted -Yoga for Health and Wellness: Tues. & Thurs., 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; Mon. & Thurs., 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

-Strength and Chair Toning Exercise: Mon. and Wed., 10:30 to 11:45 a.m.

-Square Dancing:Tues., 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. (fee) -Tai Chi: Mon,Wed., & Fri., 10:30 am to 11:30 am -Line Dancing,Thurs., Beg., 1:30-2 pm, Adv., 2-3 pm

@ Oak Island Rec. Center 3003 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island 278-5518 • www.oakislandnc.com

-Senior Mature Aerobics: Tues. & Thurs., 7:45 a.m.

$2 resident /$3 non-resident drop-in fee -Senior Yoga:Tues. & Thurs., 10 a.m.

$2/$3 drop-in fee -Yoga with Amy English: Mon. and Wed., 6 p.m. $4/$5 drop-in fee; $20/month or $27/month -Table Tennis: Fridays, 8 a.m.; Sat., 2 p.m.

-Tai Chi: Sat., 10 a.m.

-Beachwalkers meet MWF mornings, 8 a.m. at the Cabana (46th St. SE) and walk two miles. Call to join or for more info.

@ St. James Community Center 4136 Southport-Supply Rd., St. James

-Pilates with Sarah Hyland: Mon., 8 a.m.; bring mat & a fitness ball. (978) 844-2556 -Yoga with Pamela Schottenfield: Wednesdays 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. $7 drop-in fee; class packs available.

854-0112. ***No classes this month until Jan. 22 -Zumba with Pattie Powderly:Tues. & Thurs., 8 a.m. & 9:15 a.m.; Sat., 8:30 a.m. 233-5687 -Zumba:Tues., 5:30 p.m.

Gentle Yoga with Dee Buckingham Southport Jaycee Building 309 Fodale Ave., Southport www.RisingTideYoga.com Mondays from 10:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; $4

To list your exercise events, e-mail kris@southportmag.com 24 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

Yoga for Health and Wellness with Ella Hill St. Peter Lutheran Church, 4843 Southport-Supply Rd. 297-6274 • www.stpeterlutheran-nc.org Mondays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Suggested donation of $6 to $10.

Yoga with Pam Moulin Inspirations Dance Centre, 7969 River Rd. 612-7441 • www.inspirationsdancecentre.com

Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Walk in fee of $8/$10 per class. Pam has been yoga certified since 2004, is a Level 3 YogaFit instructor with Seniors training, teaching yoga for 10 plus years. She’s been a certified fitness instructor for over 28 years.

Yoga with Pamela Schottenfeld Island Healing Chiropractic 8809 E. Oak Island Dr. 278-5877 • www.islandhealingchiropractic.com

Mondays from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. $8 drop-in fee; also class packs available. Pamela has been practicing yoga for over 18 years and has been a registered Vinyasa Yoga instructor since 2006.

Ageless Yoga with Beverly Weinstein, RYT 200 Country Club Dr., Oak Island 248-9644 • www.agelessyoga4u.com

Tues: Gentle Yoga, 10:30-11:30 a.m.; Fri: Gentle Yoga, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Sat: Yin Yang Yoga, 9:30-10:45 a.m.; Sun., Mixed Level Hatha, 10:30-11:45 a.m. Sign up online; fee $8.

BSL SPRING BIKE RUN Sat.,April 5th • 9:30 a.m.

Boiling Spring Lakes Fire Station 9 E. Boiling Spring Rd., Boiling Spring Lakes Lunch included. First & Last place winners.

Door prizes. Raffles. 50/50. Sponsored & Organized by City of Boiling Spring Lakes Special Events. Proceeds benefit South Brunswick High Booster Club. Contact (910) 845-2040.

OAK ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE 5K, 10K AND HALF-MARATHON Sat., April 12th • 8 a.m.

NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell 100 Caswell Beach Rd., Caswell Beach

5k and 10k Run or Walk. Half Marathon Run. Out and back from and to the NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell. Picturesque routes along the beachfront and past the Oak Island Lighthouse. The half-marathon route will include crossing the G.V. Barbee Bridge to Oak Island, twice, and tree-lined streets in Caswell Beach and Oak Island. Please check the run website for additional details: www.lighthouse10k.com

Facilities and instructors are required to notify Southport Magazine of any changes.

Schedules and prices are subject to change.

Please call the venues to verify dates, times and fees.

PHILLIP A. COOK MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Mon.,April 14th Oak Island Golf and Country Club 928 Caswell Beach Rd., Caswell Beach Four-person Captains Choice. $99 per person includes green fees, breakfast biscuits, goodie bag, 3 hybrid, lob wedge, pizza at noon, beer and nonalcoholic beverages, tournament gift, and chicken dinner prepared by Island Way Restaurant after play. Cash prizes for 1st & 2nd in 3 flights. Door Prizes. Giveaways. Ball launcher hits ball 350 to 400 yards on #1. Hot Tub for hole in one on #12.

Cash Booth - buy chances to get in the booth for the cash! Live auction. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities contact Bobby Mitchell at (910) 201-4195. The monies raised benefit the Phillip A. Cook Memorial Education and Development Fund, and WAVES4K.I.D.S of Brunswick County. Sponsored by Island Way Restaurant.

KIWANIS 5K RUN/WALK Sat., April 19th • 8 a.m.

Waterfront Park 101 E. Bay St., Southport

The 5,000 meter 5K Run/Walk follows a clockwise course through Historic Southport and along the waterfront of the Cape Fear River. Entry Fee: Preregistration received before April 19 - $20. Race day $25. Entry fee includes a Kiwanis 5K tee shirt in sizes and quantities while they last. 1st priority to those pre-registered. “No Shows” will forfeit their shirts to race day participants if the shirt is not picked up by 7:40 a.m. on race day. Shirt Pick-Up and Registration will take place Friday,April 18th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the North Carolina Maritime Museum, 204 E. Moore Street, Southport and Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. at Waterfront Park on race day. For more info, visit www.southport-oakisland-kiwanis.org.

OAK ISLAND BAREFOOT BATTLE Sat.,April 26th • 8:30 a.m.

Oak Island Pier, 705 Ocean Dr., Oak Island

The Oak Island Barefoot Battle will benefit the Rape Crisis Center of Coastal Horizons Center, Inc. Come prepared to run/walk, crawl, hop, toss, jump, and roll your way through the Barefoot Battle beach obstacle course. Registration will be from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and the event will start at 9:30 a.m. Pre-Registration Fee: $20 per person (t-shirt guaranteed), Day of Registration Fee: $25 per person (t-shirts available, but not guaranteed), What to Wear? A costume. If you don't want to wear a costume, then a t-shirt and shorts.What to Bring? A beach towel, some flip flops, sunglasses, and perhaps a change of clothes. Water will be provided. Raffles and give-aways. This event is for participants ages 10+. Any participants under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian present to sign a waiver on the day of the event. Go to www.supportrcc.org to preregister for this event. For More information contact The Rape Crisis Center of Coastal Horizons Center in Brunswick County at (910) 754-7949.

scales

Fish on: spring inshore fishing guidelines Story by Captain Alan Beasley

T

HERE IS NO DOUBT THAT everyone infected with the saltwater fishing bug is more than ready for the first bite as the weather starts to warm up. When you start to see the trees and flowers budding and the insects and wildlife indicate that spring has sprung, it gives us the urge to get on the water.

Spring fishing can be the most challenging of seasons for saltwater fishing if you don’t have lots of experience at it—and especially if you’re not familiar with this area and its fishing challenges. You can spend some cash on hiring a local fishing guide that has a good reputation for the area; there are many who do and that is a great way to get a good idea of what to do. However, that can be expensive, and you may actually need to do that several times to get the lowdown, as many of the guides are trying to figure out what’s happening where during the start of the season as well. They may have a slow day on the water any given day—and it might be the one you booked.

Rather, here are several ideas that can help the learning fisherman for springtime saltwater fishing in the Southport area.

First and foremost, you should always target a certain type of fish, and you should know the ideal water temperature for that species. If you want to catch flounder, for example, you need to be in water temperatures that they will tolerate or they just won’t be there. Here, flounder are most active when the water is 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Next, make sure you are in the right places for early season fishing. Again, for flounder you need to be where they are hanging out to find food. In early spring, most flounder have begun to migrate inshore from offshore, and they will stop along the way as they find food and comfortable water tem-

Captain Alan Beasley is a lifelong resident of the area, familiar with the waters and the fish that swim them. Last June he caught a nine-pound flounder using Berkley Gulp bait, his preferred option when not using live bait. Courtesy photo

peratures. The best places for early spring flounder fishing is near shore structures in the ocean and at inlets.

The last, but a very important item, is bait choice. You can’t just take the old squid or shrimp from the freezer from last year. Yes, the fish are hungry, but chances are they are targeting something alive and maybe plentiful, such as glass minnows. To increase your chances at catching a fish, you should be using bait that closely resembles the glass minnow—or whatever the fish are feeding on. In most cases you can use fresh or fresh-frozen cut bait that is cut in the form of the glass minnow. A thin strip of a mullet filet works well. I like using the white portion of the filet first.

Keep in mind that everything down there will want to join in on eating that bait, so keep it moving if you’re getting lots of bites but not catching.

Flounder are very aggressive, especially in early spring because they are extremely hungry, so they will violently go after that piece of strip bait

but there are many other hungry little fish down there.

There is no doubt in my mind that a great second choice for bait is the Berkley Gulp Bait. It is actually on the top of my list as bait for any time of the year. That stuff is like magic, and I have proven it to “outperform" live bait many times. For instance, I caught a nine-pound flounder from the shore using Berkley Gulp early last summer. Certainly a lucky fishing day for me—but that flounder hit that Gulp bait like it was the first meal of the season. He nailed it!

Remember this if nothing else, use bait that resembles what the fish is after in early spring, and be patient if there are no bites at all. They are still cold and moving slow, so you have to help them out a little with the presentation of the bait. If your bait is getting pecked by little fish, move the bait a little faster—but stop often to let that flounder catch up if she’s moving slow.

Don’t worry so much if you don’t have a boat—just go to the beach at the nearest inlet or points closest to inlets from the ocean. By all means, if you’re near Southport, go to the waterfront there. That’s a great place to fish spring through fall—and you never know what you might catch there or how big it can be!

Remember, the more you go the more you learn and the better your chances are at catching fish. So don’t give up if at first you don’t succeed— keep going.

As well, think of our local tackle shops for buying your gear and for getting great fishing tips! They need our support and supporting our local economy is always the best idea. Most of our local tackle shops have been around for a long time and they will also give you good advice on “what, where and how” to catch fish. They are a great resource that must be supported year-round.

Until next time, good luck and good fishing to all!

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southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 25

Oak Island Art Guild Workshop

NOW OPEN! Your New Neighborhood Pharmacy!

“A Design Approach to Abstraction” April 11, 2014 • 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Led by internationally acclaimed Linear Expressionist,

MEDICAID Patients Welcome!

Galloway-Sands Pharmacy

Call Us To Trasnfer Your RX Today!

Greta Swaim Oak Island Recreation Center 3003 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465

“Faces you recognize, Service you count on, Advice You Trust!”

For a list of suggested supplies and any other additional information concerning this workshop, go to www.oakislandartguild.org/workshops.php

910•454•9090

The workshop receives support from the Brunswick Arts Council, a 501c3 nonprofit, funded by North Carolina Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

1513 N. Howe St. Suite 8 • Smithville Crossing • Behind the Wingate Inn

Joey Galloway • Kevin Sands • Brad Narron

Oak Island Lighthouse Run Saturday, April 12

8am – Half Marathon Run 8:10am – 10k Run/Walk 8:30am – 5k Run/Walk NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell Registration Online open now www.lighthouse10k.com Registration and Pre-Registration Packet Pickup Friday, April 11th at Chamber from 5pm-7pm and Race Day Saturday April 12th at the NC Baptist Assembly from 6am-7:30am

More information (910) 457-6964 Event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce

Sponsored by: Art at 211 The Ricky Evans Gallery. Brunswick Community College , Bruett Insurance Agency, Inc., Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry, Dosher Memorial Hospital, Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS, N.C. Baptist Assembly @ Fort Caswell, Oak Island Accommodations, Oak Island Golf & Country Club, Papa John’s of Southport, River Road Animal Hospital, Solstice Builders, LLC, Town of Caswell Beach, Town of Oak Island, Southport Magazine

26 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

wealth

Story by Greg Ochipa

Get your ground game on to protect your home and property

I

F WATER ISN'T DRAINING correctly around your property, you could be in for some major headaches: bogs in your lawn, cracked foundations, and landscaping that washes down your slopes (if you have them around here!) and more. The culprit often is soil erosion. These five tips may help you remedy an erosion problem and protect the integrity and aesthetics of your property.

1. Plant hardy species.

Add groundcover plants, native species and grasses to keep soil intact. If you have existing plants in an erosionprone area, leave them—and their root structures—intact to help prevent erosion. Contact a nursery or your state extension office to learn which plants work best in your region.

2. Regrade away from the house.

To properly drain water away from your house, your yard must be lower than the level of soil at the base of your house. Use clean fill dirt for your proj-

ect: It compacts harder and helps hold the slope better than topsoil. While you may be able to tackle smaller areas yourself, seek the assistance of a landscape professional for advice about bigger jobs.

While you’re looking around your home for drainage problems, make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning properly, and that water from the downspout is directed well away from your foundation.

stay put longer than loose straw. Mulch “matting” provides larger areas of cover and decomposes over time to improve the soil. Mulch can attract termites, so when applying mulch around your home, keep it around six inches from the foundation.

5. Build structures.

A retaining wall can often slow or redirect the flow of water down a sloped yard. Your property may also be suitable for a rain garden, which helps col3. Improve your soil. lect rainwater and allows it to drain into Add compost, peat moss and/or ma- the ground slowly and naturally. nure once per year to help build up weakened soils and improve the chance Contact a landscaping professional to for drainage rather than runoff. get specific guidance for reducing erosion around your yard.

4. Add mulch.

When you cover bare spots with Any questions? mulch or loose straw, you help protect Contact Greg, the dirt underneath from being washed a State Farm agent, at: away. Cover the bald area completely, Office: (910) 395-5252 accumulating at least two to three inchEmail : greg@gregochipa.com es of mulch for best results. If you’re in www.gregochipa.com a particularly windy region, mulch may

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southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 27

biz Q&A

By Bethany Turner

Bridgers Landscaping, Pools and Spas thrives from a long history of green thumbs

T

HERE IS A PLACE IN

Southport where you can go this month to celebrate Earth Day (April 22nd) and Arbor Day (April 25th). At 8210 River Rd. SE, Bridgers Landscaping, Pools and Spas awaits to help residents spruce up their yards with an array of plants, from shrubbery to trees to beautiful flowers.

We spoke with owner Hal Bridgers about his greenhouse—and his green thumb (see it in the photo!) for this month's Biz Q&A. Southport Magazine (SM): When did you discover your love for plants, and why did you want to own your own business?

Hal Bridgers (HB): My grandmother had a nursery when I was young, and I helped her in the greenhouse potting plants and growing nursery stock. That was the start of my passion for plants and landscape design.

The business aspect came at a later time when I was helping a friend in Southport with his landscape business in the mid '80s. He passed away suddenly, and I assumed his contracts, which was the start of Bridgers Landscapes. We started the garden center and greenhouse in 1995. After years of designing projects, we decided to launch the pools and spas area of the business to be able to provide a complete outdoor living space.

SM: With Earth Day and Arbor Day taking place this month, can you suggest a few trees you sell that do best in our area, and why do you suggest them for residents' yards?

HB: Crape Myrtles, of course. They are easy to maintain, and have an extended bloom time. The river birch is a good choice, with easy maintenance. Magnolias, hybrid maples, and hybrid hollies are all well adapted to our area.

SM: What are some items or services you offer that folks may not know about?

HB: We have a greenhouse growing operation. A full landscape design service with installation. Coming soon we will be of-

28 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

Above: Owner Hal Bridgers and his staff (l. to r.), Cristina Beasley, Tina York and Kim Everhart. Right: It's confirmed: Hal has a green thumb! Photos by Kris Beasley

fering a 3-D landscape design service. We do hardscapes, including pavers, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, arbors, etc.

We also do fencing—aluminum, wood and vinyl with very competitive pricing.

SM: Why should folks choose Bridgers for pool and spa services?

HB: We install the highest quality fiberglass pool in the industry. Our relationships with suppliers allow us to serve you better. Factory trained and certified service and installation for pools and hot tubs means we give you the best service possible.

SM: Tell us about your upcoming open house April 11-12, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and why you're inviting the public to your garden center.

HB: I enjoy showing my appreciation to all of my loyal customers who have been with me through all these years. I hope to develop new relationships with the newcomers to our community by inviting them to check out what we offer and have a good lunch with us.

Ed. note: On Friday, the shop will host lunch with Lowcountry chicken and rice. On Saturday, they'll serve BBQ to the beats of a live DJ. SM: Favorite food?

HB: Seafood SM: Favorite book?

HB: The Bible SM: Favorite music?

HB: R&B SM: Favorite place to travel?

HB: Key West SM: Favorite thing about Southport?

HB: The people, views, food, and overall quality of life.

Real Estate

413 W. West Street - Price Reduced! Classic Southport Cottage just steps to the Yacht Basin! Located in the heart of Southport.

3 bedrooms, 2 baths, formal dining room and sunroom overlooking backyard oasis. Large lot complete with koi ponds, workshop, and greenhouse! Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS at $356,000 Call Kay Jolliff 523-0624

766 Skipjack CircleMarshfront Energy Star rated home. Walk to historic Southport or kayak from neighborhood pier. Stunning home has 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, great room with soaring ceilings and stunning views, screened porch & indoor saltwater pool. Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS at $775,500. Call Kay Jolliff 523-0624

5928 Dutchman Creek - Watch the boats go by from this lovely 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 3100+ sq. ft. Low Country home in beautiful Indigo Plantation located in downtown Southport. Features include: large kitchen, family room with custom built ins, 2 fireplaces, and an enormous screened porch offering expansive views! Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS at $679,000.

Call Kay Jolliff (910) 523-0624

401 Lord Thomas Ave. - Southport. $299,900. Listing #677529.

Located in The Cottages at Southport, one of the area’s favorite new neighborhoods. 3BR, 2.5BA. Hardwoods, gas fireplace, gas oven, stainless and granite in kitchen, 9ft ceilings. First floor master with walk in shower, soaking tub, his and her vanities, large walk in closet. Upstairs spacious bedrooms share a Jack and Jill bath with granite and tile. Extra open loft. Hardie plank siding, upgraded hardware, crown Molding, Screened porch, extensive landscape package with irrigation system using pond. Call Renee Yost of Intracoastal Realty at 910-269-1128 or visit www.YostandYost.com

104 Bonnets Creek Lane - Southport.

REDUCED! $439,900.

Listing #677962. Spacious 4BR,3.5 B. A waterview home, open floor plan great for entertaining with top floor living area, dining area and upgraded kitchen with stainless and granite and hardwoods throughout. Elevator and 2-car garage w/golf cart garage. Call Renee Yost of Intracoastal Realty at 910269-1128 or visit www.

YostandYost.com

3612 Button Bush Ct. - Arbor Creek. 3 Bedroom 2 Bath, $249,000, MLS #665646. $9K Reduction! Beautiful, well cared for brick home welcomes you to Arbor Creek. Lawn maintenance is included in the HOA dues giving you plenty of time to enjoy the many neighborhood amenities.

Just 8 years old, with a

recessed walkway, mature shrubbery and a 17x17 screened back porch to help you relax! This home can be your start to easy living in coastal NC. Call Ben Styers, Southport Realty, Inc. (910) 448-2598 for a tour.

659 Carolina Bay Ct. - Indigo Plantation, 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath, $434,000.

MLS #673472.Walking in the front door you have an open view through the great room, French doors, onto the large stamped concrete deck. Deck and beautifully landscaped area with privacy to the rear.Two fireplaces with their marble surround and wood mantels. Enjoy the sun lights in the sun room and great room. The split bedroom plan provides privacy on the first level.

There is the 4th bedroom/ media room on the second level with a full bath. Find the elevator on the ground level with the three car garage, 115 sq.ft. workshop, and 1,106 sq.ft. of open storage. Moor your boat at the Indigo Marina. Enjoy the clubhouse, pool, and tennis courts. Call Harley Lemons, Southport Realty Inc., (910) 352-7174.

1000 Caswell Beach Dr. #1011 - Freshly updated, beautifully furnished oceanfront condo.

3 bedrooms, 2 bath with multiple balconies to enjoy the sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Strong Rental History! Everything you need to be living the oceanfront dream! Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS at $249,000. Call Kay Jolliff (910) 523-0624

1106 Elizabeth Dr. Oak Island. Enjoy amazing views of the marsh and

ICW from your screened porch or private deck of this 3 BR, 2 BA, furnished home, it’s move-in ready.

Close to the beach and restaurants. Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® $299,900 Call Donna Atherton (910) 515-6447

312 Clarendon Ave. - REDUCED! There is not a better location at this price! Beautiful wooded site in prime Southport spot. Enjoy living Southport style and walk to everything! Just steps to the marina, yacht basin, restaurants, galleries, shops and waterfront. Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS at $185,000 Call Kay Jolliff (910) 523-0624

110 W. St. George St. - Downtown Southport.

Quaint, historic 3BR, 2.5 BA cottage. Renovated in 2005, the home retains its charm.Welcoming foyer, Metal roof, picket fence, shutters, restored pine floors, fireplace insert with gas logs. Sitting and family areas, first floor master with private bath.The kitchen has corian counters, breakfast area with skylights and is cottage perfect with a pink refrigerator.

Mud room leads to back porch area and out to the beautifully landscaped yard, a private oasis with patio, up lighting in trees and a potting shed. Furniture is negotiable. Call Renee Yost of Intracoastal Realty at 910-269-1128 or visit www.YostandYost.com

5009 Northhampton Dr. - 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath. $159,900. MLS #681001 Better than new.This

charming home has an impressive list of features: all new carpet throughout (Feb 2014), updated hardware in baths, fresh paint (March 2014), new programmable thermostat, irrigation system, 2 car garage, screen porch, 5 ceiling fans, 9 ft. ceilings, cathedral ceilings in great room and dining area, custom shelving in 2 guest bedrooms and foyer. Master suite has his and her closets, ceiling fan, large double windows, double sink vanity, and garden tub. Carolina Place neighborhood amenities are boat/ RV parking, crabbing dock, nature trail and pool. Call Shay Watlkins, Southport Realty, (910) 470-0107.

107 Cape Fear Dr. - 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath. $319,500 MLS #680907 Renovated in 2011, new bathrooms, floors and kitchen. Close to the Cape Fear River and downtown Southport.

Lovely backyard with in ground pool.This is a MUST SEE home! NO HOA dues and lots of privacy in your fenced backyard. Spacious one level home with deep front porch and circle driveway.

Call Verilyn McKee, Southport Realty, 470-0527.

5106 Hollow Tree Dr. - 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath. MLS #680895. $374,000 This classic low country style 2271 sq.ft. home in Harbor Oaks, with bonus room over the 2 car garage, is waiting for you! It has a cooks kitchen featuring soap stone counters, large pantry, built in shelving, gas range and electric oven, Miele dishwasher, LG refrigerator.Advantium microwave/convection oven, restaurant quality stove hood.The master bedroom has a walk in closet with extra shelves, while the marble floors in the bathroom and glass and tile shower or soaking tub awaits. Enjoy low energy

bills with the help of spray foam insulation, and on demand hot water equipped with natural gas. Fenced in back yard, screened in rear porch and open, rocking chair front porch. Call Kim Anne Russ, Southport Realty, (910) 523-1222.

111 S. Atlantic Ave. - 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bath. $624,000, MLS #681173 A must see with water views.

It is filled with charm and includes a large paneled living area with attached year round sunporch overlooking the river.This expansive cottage contains two bedrooms plus a master suite with an addition with an outside entrance.

Large attic. Located in the most desirable area of Southport, this one of a kind cottage with its white picket fence, English garden, stately trees, and spectacular views is Southport living at its best. Even larger than it appears! Call Verilyn McKee, Southport Realty,(910) 470-0527.

121 W. Island Dr. - Big Davis Canal. Boat parking, deep water, west of Middleton, bulkheaded lot, boatlift, dock & pier, all under $439,900! In-law suite, hardwoods, garage, amazing opportunity.

Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® Call Brooke Rudd at (910)512-1361

6325 SE Mallard Duck - Outside City Limits. In the country but close to everything, large corner lot, 9 ½ foot ceilings, handicap features, 3 car garage, hot tub, many extras.

Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® $399,500 Call Dot Schuck at 523-2517

3229 E. Beach Dr. Oak Island, Oceanfront – have morning coffee or a cold drink in the evening looking over the ocean from the deck of this four bedroom, 2 bath home.

Great for entertaining, by beach access. $429,000 Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® Call Donna Atherton at 515-6447

4747 Halyard Road - Mariner’s Point – Southport. 3 BR/2BA, 1 car garage situated on large corner lot in beautiful community in central location! Vaulted ceilings, back patio and lovely master suite. $135,500 Listed with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® Call Brooke Rudd at (910)512-1361

Boats NOW HIRING! Blackbarry Marine on Long Beach Rd is now hiring an Outboard Marine Mechanic. Please call (910) 457-0667.

2013 Triumph 17 Ft. Skiff - F70 Hp Yamaha Outboard Engine, EZ Loader Boat Trailer $20,575.00 plus tax and fees. 910-457-0667. Blackbarry Marine 2013 G3 Suncatcher 22 Ft. Pontoon Boat - F115 Hp Yamaha Outboard Engine, Galvanized Boat Trailer. $31,000.00 plus tax and fees. 910-4570667. Blackbarry Marine

Yamaha engines ranging from 2.5 to 300hp. New at a great price. 457-0667. Blackbarry Marine.

Classified Ads up to 50 words

only $15 per month Photo Ads up to 50 words

only $20 per month Call Kris Beasley at 910-2316204 to place your ad today.

southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 29

homestyle

Story by Bethany Turner

IDYLLIC IN INDIGO

An Indigo Plantation home boasts tons of storage options and creekside views

F

OR THE TOURISTS WHO THINK Southport only exists as the historic area along and just off of Howe Street, they should take a drive. Wander down the side streets and see how far the city goes. Travel along 9th Street past Southport Elementary School, and discover a neighborhood high on charm—just like downtown—but big on storage space, yard area, and water views.

Indigo Plantation was once the marina for the Bald Head Island ferry—the parking lots and terminal are still there. Yet sailboats and yachts now call the harbor home where the large white boat once conveyed passengers to and from the island off our coast. The subdivision crawls along the edge of Dutchman Creek while streams slither up through the marsh toward the lots. While people curl

Above photo by Bethany Turner

into bed in their homes, baby fish and crabs snuggle into the sea grass. It's an idyllic thought but true, and Indigo Plantation is an idyllic neighborhood.

Bjorn and Jennifer Nordemo recognized the worth of 5928 Dutchman Creek Rd., the home they now own in Indigo Plantation, back in 2002. Former Bostonians with a summer home in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, the couple relocated to Pinehurst, North Carolina, with Jennifer's mother. Having sold the Stone Harbor vacation home, they were in the market for something along the Carolina coast to spend their weekends.

"We thought, Well, we would really like a house by the shore, somewhere along the waterways," Bjorn remembers. "So we spent some time and we actually went up and down the Outer Banks, including Duck,

30 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

and we saw all these gigantic homes stuffed one on top of the other with 16 bedrooms and 27 baths—what I call 'cash registers.' It just was not what we wanted."

Jennifer suggested the couple revisit Southport. When they arrived, the Visitor's Center was their first stop.

"We said, 'We would like a bed and breakfast, and a good restaurant, and a good realtor,'" Bjorn recalls.

"The bed and breakfast was right up on the knoll overlooking the river, and they sent us to Provisions.

We looked at some houses, and we liked this one [on Dutchman Creek] early on."

The Nordemos put in an offer, a low one, and it was rejected. They found another in Southport, put in an offer, and it was rejected, too.

"We weren't there to make them happy—we were

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Library/study, photo by Bethany Turner

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Come to the Oasis Above photo by Bethany Turner

there to buy a house," Bjorn jokes.

The duo was on vacation in Vermont when Bjorn posed a question to Jennifer: "Did you like the first house we put an offer on?"

The house had gripped him, and Jennifer agreed. The couple put in another offer while they were still on vacation.

"It was sold to us by the time we got back home," he says.

Coincidentally, the Nordemos found they had something in common with all of the previous owners. "The person who built it and the second person who owned it were both from Pinehurst," Jennifer muses, "so we were the third Pinehurst owners."

With four bedrooms and two-and-ahalf baths, the home decorated in a relaxed farmhouse style isn't lacking on space. In fact, there are bonus rooms and extra closets at every turn.

Upon entering the foyer, one encounters a study to the right which features

built-in shelves and cabinets. Recessed lighting shines upon the mantle. "We use this as a nice little reading room, and it has its own fireplace, which is great," Bjorn says.

Both the reading room and the dining room across the foyer have white French doors should anyone ever need to shut the rooms off for a little peace and relaxation.

The dining room carries through to the kitchen, where newly installed granite countertops mesh well with the darkAbove photo courtesy of Kay Jolliff

Main dining area, photo by Bethany Turner

Enjoy a full menu of house specialties including:

Crab Dip • Reuben Fish & Chips Live music on Saturdays: 6:30-11pm Open 7 Days a Week Now Open for Mon-Fri: 11am - Closing Breakfast Sat-Sun: 12 noon-Closing at 6 a.m.

LATE 8038 River Rd, SE • Southport NIGHT 910-454-4004 MENU southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 31

Above photo by Bethany Turner / Below photo courtesy of Kay Jolliff

32 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

painted center island. White cabinetry abounds, with glass inserts on the long back wall giving way to views of an eclectic collection of dishes. The kitchen is quite large—perfect for cooking for grand dinner parties. "We have a big kitchen with a big eating area," Bjorn adds.

The eating area, separate from the designated dining room, currently fits a table for eight within the window-clad walls. Six paneless windows offer uninterrupted views of Dutchman Creek.

Curving through the dining room and past a large wine rack, one enters the living room, which features built-in cabinetry along the right wall. Or, one simply could walk straight through from the foyer and right out onto the screen porch, upon which the living room looks out.

While the home's front porch is protected from the summer heat, shielded by the shade of pine trees, the back porch is the Nordemos' favorite area of the house.

"We have beautiful views," Bjorn concedes. "I trim these oak trees back so that wherever you happen to be sitting, you can look out and watch the boats. In the summer the sailboats come back and forth, and they anchor here. This is a very deep area out here, so there are always a bunch of sailboats anchored. You can put a dock out—about 800 feet of walkway."

The Nordemos, along with a renovation to expand the dining room and porch, looked into constructing a dock.

But Bjorn reasoned: "We can get boat slips at Indigo Plantation Marina."

The marina, once home to the ferry, is just a short bike ride from their home.

The Nordemos decided not to intrude on the marsh.

Bjorn says their lot, at 0.69 acres, is one of the few in the neighborhood to be almost perfectly rectangular; it's difficult to carve out regular lots along the water.

"But the water does not come past our fence," he tells of the short, black border that runs along the back yard. "We wanted a fence that you really couldn't see unless you happened to be looking for it, so it wouldn't be intrusive [to the landscape or our view]."

"We put the fence out so you can stagger to the door and let the dogs out," Jennifer harps. "It keeps the dogs in and keeps the deer out, actually."

Back inside, two guest rooms split a jack-and-jill bathroom—which also offers views of Dutchman Creek.

There is a closet for every room and then some. Naturally the master bedroom features a large, walk-in closet.

But even from one bonus room, which features a built-in refrigerator, a cedar-

lined closet big enough to stow a small SUV leads through another door to even more storage space. Honestly, the hidden space within the home has to be seen to be believed. Between closets, extra rooms, attic space and the garage that Bjorn added, the Indigo Plantation home has any house in downtown Southport beat (to be fair, most historic homes lack closets!).

"This house is deceiving," Bjorn adds.

"It's actually fairly large."

The home lacked a garage—so Bjorn added a 24 ft. by 24 ft. two-car garage.

It's big enough to provide space for a workshop, too. From where the car pulls in and the trunk would be, a dumb waiter from the garage up to near the kitchen is ready to assist with groceries. Part of Bjorn's renovation plans included the addition of an elevator from the garage.

Much to the Nordemos' dismay, the Pinehurst residents have decided it is time to sell their house on Dutchman Creek. "It was strictly a summer home, and we tried to come down about every two weeks," Bjorn reveals. "Then every once in a while it became a month, then two months; lately we have hardly been here. I have a lot of time-consuming things that I have to do with my retirement business: I restore antique and classic automobiles. I end up having to go to car shows here, there, and everywhere—consequently we don't end up here in Southport."

Jennifer, who adores riding horses, also is quite busy. "I have my own horse, Hall Dressed Up. I like to call him H.D.," she quips. "His father was Hall Decked Out. His great-grandfather was Art Deco."

Additionally, their children live in the western part of the state, placing strain on trips to Southport. "Our daughters: one of them is in the mountains, another is in Chapel Hill, and the other is in Raleigh. Everybody's in the wrong direction," Bjorn says. "So we just haven't been coming down here as much. It's time to sell, but it's a shame, because I love this house."

Even as he tours the house 12 years after purchasing it, Bjorn falls in love all over again. Doubt escapes as he reminisces, "Every time I come down here, I go, 'Eh, should we change our mind again?'"

Alas, 5928 Dutchman Creek remains on the market—for now. The home, at over 3,000 square feet, is listed with Kay Jolliff of Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® for $679,000. Aside from the marina, Indigo Plantation also features a clubhouse, pool and tennis courts. For info or to tour the home, call Kay's office at (910) 457-5258.

Above, master bedroom, which has views of Dutchman Creek. Photo courtesy of Kay Jolliff

Above left, master bathroom. Above right, guest jack-and-jill bathroom. Photos courtesy of Kay Jolliff Above, screen deck overlooking Dutchman Creek. Below, Indigo Plantation Marina. Photos by Bethany Turner

Above, one of the spare bedrooms. Photo courtesy of Kay Jolliff

southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com 33

spottings John Sledge was seen pulling out of Southport Animal Hospital with his two dogs, Sweets and Otto. He's had the '68 Chevy Impala since high school, when his father handed it down to him. Photo by Kris Beasley

Jerry Hendrick, chairman of the National Resolutions Committee for American Legion, presents an award to Commander Don McGuire on February 26th, 2014. The plaque commends the Richard H. Stewart Jr. American Legion Post 543 for its continued support of Operation At Ease, which provides military personnel deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan a complimentary weekend of rest and relaxation at St. James Plantation. Photo credit: John Muuss Photographic Artist Inc.

Close to 250 people came out to the Oak Island Moose Lodge to support the NC 4th of July Festival at the festival’s chowder cook-off fundraising event, raising over $2,000. In the restaurant division, first place went to Chef Ryan Seenes of Fishy Fishy Café (center); second place winners were Robin and Blake Conklin of Shagger Jacks; and third place prize went to Chef Joe Caldropoli of Coastal Catering and Events.

Photo courtesy of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce.

Southport Taffy and Fudge Factory—now at 112 E. Moore Street (through the courtyard)— celebrated the opening of its new location in March with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce. Photo courtesy of the chamber

Visit us online: www.SouthportMag.com 34 southport magazine / april 2014 / www.southportmag.com

Congratulations to Rob Potter of Farm Bureau Insurance Agency! He was the winner of Southport Magazine’s door prize at the Coastal Consumer Showcase held March 6th. He won dinner at Mr. P’s Bistro, two tickets to a Brunswick Little Theatre production of his choice, and a bottle of wine! Photo by Alan Beasley

occasions Brunswick Concert Band Spring Concert Fri., April 4th • 7 p.m.

Hatch Auditorium, Fort Caswell Sun., April 6th • 3 p.m.

Seaside United Methodist Church 1300 Seaside Rd SW, Sunset Beach www.brunswickbands.org The Brunswick Concert Band will perform their Spring Concert: "Around The World In Eighty Minutes." This delightful musical event begins with the "Oak Island Odyssey" and will venture around the world featuring Broadway favorites, marches, a tribute to Duke Ellington, and return home with our own "Appalachian Legacy."

The concerts, directed by Michael Stringer, are free.

Donations are gratefully accepted and help support the band and their Music Students Assistance Program.

Non-perishable food items will be collected for the Southport/Oak Island Food Pantry and the Brunswick Family Assistance Food Bank. For further information contact Mary Helen Turek: 253-1643 Kids Day in the Park Sat.,April 5th • 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Franklin Square Park, 130 E.West St. www.franklinsquaregallery.com Volunteers from the Associated Artists of Southport will host this annual event and guide the youngsters as they participate in a variety of arts and crafts. Activities include face painting, jewelry making, balloons, bubbles, flower potting, Spin Art and much more. All activities for children are free. Contact: 457-5450.

Fundraiser for Put Together the Pieces Sun.,April 6th • 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe, 1671 N. Howe St., Southport (910) 363-4908 • www.tropicalsmoothie.com The purpose of the fundraiser, besides helping in our projects, is to help spread awareness of the Autism Spectrum and bring the community together. Twenty percent of proceeds will be donated to Put Together the Pieces, the Autism/Asperger's Support Group of the Southport/Oak Island Area. Also, paint the logo (rainbow puzzle pieces within a heart) of Put Together the Pieces as an additional fundraiser. $36 a person including supplies. The Class is given by Mert with Pretty in Painting for ages 5 and up. Please e-mail Dina Scalia dlscalia@yahoo.com to register or for more info.

Good Shepherd Center Golf Tournament and Games Day Monday,April 7th Country Club of Landfall 800 Sunrunner Place,Wilmington To benefit the Good Shepherd Center. Golf registration begins at 11:30 a.m., and the Tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. All golfers will have the opportunity to purchase mulligans and sign up for the putting contest at the door. The registration fee, which includes golf, cart, practice range, gift bag, and dinner for golfers, is $200 per player, or $800 for a team of four. Space is limited, though registration is still open for both golfers and Games Day participants.

Games Day will begin with an optional lunch at

11:30 for $15, and Games play will begin at 12:30 p.m.

Duplicate Bridge, Party Bridge, Mah Jongg and Mexican Train will be offered during Games Day, and other games are welcomed. A 50/50 raffle and prize giveaways will also take place during Games Day. A donation of $25 is requested to participate in Games Day. To join the golfers for a light dinner after the conclusion of Games, please include an additional $25. For an afternoon of fun, in support of a very worthwhile cause, please call Michelle Thompson at (843) 270-2162 or Marlene White at 256-2118, to register. The Golf Tournament and Games Day will be followed by a light dinner, golfer awards, special speakers, and a silent auction.

For details, visit www.goodshepherdwilmington.org Oak Island Art Guild Workshop: 'A Design Approach to Abstraction' Fri.,April 11th • 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Oak Island Parks and Recreation Center 3003 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island Oak Island Art Guild will host a workshop led by internationally acclaimed Linear Expressionist, Greta Swaim.The workshop will immediately follow the 9 am business meeting and last until approximately 2 pm.The workshop is free to anyone 18 years or older and nonmembers are encouraged to attend. Space is limited and there is no preregistration.

For a list of suggested supplies and any other additional information concerning this workshop, go to http://www.oakislandartguild.org/workshops.php.

First Ever Virginia Williamson Elementary School Spring Carnival Fri.,April 11th • 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Virginia Williamson Elementary School 1020 Zion Hill Rd SE, Bolivia Open to the general public and appropriate for all ages. Over 28 fair booths, 4 Inflatable bounce houses (Inflatable Slides, Obstacle Course, Bounce Houses), Hay Rides, Concession Stands, Photos w/Characters and Props, Show N’ Tell - Local EMS, Fire Dept., Sheriff Dept., Meet D.A.R.E.’s Mascot, Darren The Lion, Games (balloon toss, Corn Hole, Plinko), Face Painting / Kissing Booth and more…For more info, contact the VWES PTA at vwespta@gmail.com.

Easter Egg Hunt - Southport Sat.,April 12th • 10 a.m.

Franklin Square Park, 130 E.West St. The City of Southport will host an Easter egg hunt from 10 a.m. until. Contact City of Southport Parks and Recreation Dept. for more information at 457-7945.

Civil War Ladies' Forum Tues.,April 15th • 5:30 p.m. registration Trinity United Methodist Church 209 E. Nash St., Southport www.brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com Popular local historians, Musette Steck and Charen Fink will be the featured guest speakers. Musette, president of the Southport Historical Society, will discuss the topic of slavery, and more specifically, the relationship between slave women and their masters. Charen Fink, the hostess for the evening, is a living history interpreter

To promote your event, e-mail bethany@southportmag.com.

Listings are based on space only.

and director of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table.

Her presentation will focus on children’s and women’s education that was available during the antebellum and Civil War periods. Beverages and several different period cookies will be offered which were prepared by some of the Ladies’ Forum participants.As in past meetings, there will be take-home meeting packets with additional information, as well as drawings for various Civil War-related door prizes.

Advanced registration is requested by Saturday, April 12th, to assure that sufficient materials and refreshments are available. There is no charge for current Brunswick Civil War Round Table members.The guest fee is $5 and can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues.

To register, please contact Charen Fink at (910) 8540039, or email to: dcftandm@hotmail.com.

tist Assembly at Fort Caswell.

Brunswick County DSS Recruiting Foster/ Adoptive Parents Classes run every Thursday and begin: Thurs.,April 24th • 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Strengthen a family and make a difference in children’s lives by opening your heart and home as foster/adoptive parents. Foster parenting is about believing and investing in the future by helping children and families who are experiencing difficult circumstances. The 130+ children in Brunswick County DSS custody have the same hopes, dreams, fears and needs as any other children. You have the power to change a child’s world for the better! You have the power to make a difference in the life of a child!

Brunswick County Department of Social Services will be providing the Model Approach to Partnership in Parenting (MAPP) training to be a foster/adoptive parent starting April 24th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. To register for training or for more information, please contact Tamela Jones at 910-253-2112 or tjones@brunsco.net.

Third Tuesday Evening Adult Program Tues.,April 15th • 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. (910) 457-0003 • www.ncmaritimemuseums.com NC Maritime Museum at Southport 3rd Tuesday Evening Adult Program: "Air Force One" - Howie Franklin.

Through the administrations of Presidents Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush and Clinton, Howie Franklin has served more presidents aboard Air Force One than any other Steward. Currently the Director of Cape Fear Regional Jetport at Howie Franklin Field, Mr. Franklin will share some of his most interesting, behind the scenes stories, of the leaders of the United States. Program is free, call the Museum at (910) 457-0003 to register.

Drum for Turtles Sat.,April 26th • 30 minutes before sunset Caswell Public Beach Access Join us for Drum for Turtles, with Turtle Woman. Bring your favorite instruments, songs and rhythms to share with others. All donations support The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. Come drum, dance and sing. Create musical blessings for the Sea Turtles arrival in May!

Easter Egg Hunt - Oak Island Sat.,April 19th • 10 a.m.

Bill Smith Park, Fish Factory Rd. Begins promptly at 10 a.m. Ages 10 and under divided by age groups: 3 and under, 4-6, 7-10. Free event.

Sponsored and Organized by Town of Oak Island Parks & Recreation Department. Contact: 278-5518.

OKI Beautification Club Plant Sale Sun.,April 27th • 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Retired Town Greenhouse Oak Island Drive and SE 56th St., Oak Island Plant sale lasts until all plants are sold. Proceeds support the OKI Beautification Club in keeping Oak Island green and gardened. Contact: Cindy Johnson, 933-4325.

Historical Southport Bicycle Tour Sat.,April 19th • 3:30 p.m.

Adventure Kayak Company, 807 Howe St., Southport www.ncmaritimemuseums.com The NC Maritime Museum at Southport has partnered with the Adventure Kayak Company to offer Historical Southport Bicycle Tours.The guided tour will wind through live oak canopied streets and along the waterfront, incorporating local history. Participants will pedal past Fort Johnston, homes of Pilots and Blockade Runners, the Brunswick Inn, and the Old Yacht Basin, where several movies have been filmed.The tour is $25 per person, which includes use of bike and helmet. Bring your own bicycle and helmet and join the fun for $20.

Space is limited. Advance registration is required.To register call The Adventure Kayak Company at 454-0607.

Auditions for Brunswick Little Theatre's 'Into the Woods' Sat., May 3rd and Mon., May 5th Brunswick Community College, Building F, College Rd. Performance Dates: July 25-27 and August 1-3 at Odell Williamson Auditorium. Auditions will be held according to the following schedule: Children under age 15 (except those girls auditioning for Little Red Riding Hood), Saturday, May 3rd,11 a.m.-1 p.m. Adults (15+) and those girls auditioning for Little Red Riding Hood, Saturday, May 3rd, 1 p.m. Adults (15+) and those girls auditioning for Little Red Riding Hood, Monday, May 5th, 7 p.m. You are encouraged to audition on Saturday if at all possible. Everyone should prepare a song (at least a verse and chorus).

You are strongly encouraged to prepare a selection from musical theater. You are also encouraged to select a song in the style of Sondheim, and that showcases your vocal ability. Please bring sheet music, recorded backing tracks, or be prepared to sing a capella. You may also be asked to sight read, and/or sing parts. Please dress in loose clothing and comfortable footwear, suitable for movement. Full casting and all other info at www.brunswickittletheatre. com. Contact director Jen Iapalucci, jiapalucci@ec.rr.com

Sunrise Easter Service Sun.,April 20th • 6:30 a.m.

NC Baptist Assembly, 100 Caswell Beach Rd. Gates open at 6 a.m. No pets. Bring a blanket or chair. Depending on the wind and wind direction you may want to prepare and bring your own bug spray. Rain Location: Hatch Auditorium on campus of the NC Bap-

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