THE COASTAL
THE MAGAZINE OF COASTAL CAROLINA ACTIVE LIVING
HOME: New options for Brunswick County
WINTER 2025-26
BSRI ADDRESSES SENIORS HOUSING NEEDS
BUTTON UP YOUR GARDEN | A SENIOR PROM
COLORFUL HOLIDAY RECIPES | BOOKS
THRIFT STORE NEWS | CENTER CALENDARS
Holly Tate is a beach-loving North Carolina transplant who grew up on Long Island and never wants to be too far from the ocean. A self-proclaimed “grammar geek,” Holly retired from a career in marketing communications. She loves books, travel, and exploring our beautiful state. Check out page 11, where Holly meets a BSRI Thrift Store staffer with a holiday flair.
Joan Leotta has been playing with words on page and stage since her childhood in Pittsburgh. Her poetry and essays appear in many publications. Her four historical fiction novels feature strong women in times of U.S. wars, and her newest poetry chapbook was recently released. On page 17, Joan decorates her holiday table with recipes that showcase color.
After living in Northeast Ohio for 38 years, Mike Tullia moved to Brunswick County in 2018 with his wife, Michele, to enjoy the milder weather. An avid vegetable gardener, he began learning North Carolina gardening facts, and took the Brunswick County Master Gardener Class. He has continued to learn and teach others gardening information through the Extension Master Gardener Program and helps maintain the botanical gardens. Mike gives us tips on winter garden maintenance on page 18.
Donna Ruth Morgan is a book lover who enjoys sharing her passion for reading with family and friends. Donna reads new titles of fiction and nonfiction, all available at Brunswick County public libraries. See page 19 for some great books Donna has chosen for holiday gifts and long winter nights.
Beth A. Klahre retired from a Pennsylvania chocolate manufacturer where she led teams in engineering, IT, and global services. Now living in Southport, Beth is a harp student, president of the Coastal Carolina Chapter of the American Harp Society, and is certified as a therapeutic musician. Beth's writing has been published locally and nationally. Beth peeks at a “senior” prom on page 14.
We really appreciate Eileen Minto's proofreading skills! Eileen moved to Southport in 2020 after living in Louisville, Kentucky, for 30 years. She retired from her work as an attorney in 2021, and since then has enjoyed traveling, golfing, playing Mah Jongg and Rummikub, and building new friendships and connections.
On our cover, Housing Administrative Assistant Pamela Faria (left) and Housing Director Susan West get comfy in a model apartment at the new Beacon Landing community in Ocean Isle Beach. Find out more about this new site and other housing initiatives on page 12, as Brunswick Senior Resources, Inc. works to provide much-needed new housing opportunities in Brunswick County. BSRI is striving to find all types of solutions to help older adults age in place.
THE COASTAL BUZZ
Editor Shelagh Clancy buzz@bsrinc.org
910-622-1036
Contributing Writers
Courtney Bledsoe, Beth Klahre, Joan Leotta, Mike McGurn, Donna Ruth Morgan, Jennifer Sherman, Marilou Smith, Holly Tate, Mike Tullia
Contributing Photographers
Courtney Bledsoe, Pamela Faria, Sarah Goodwin, Grace Helms, Sherry Lamb, Joan Leotta, Mike McGurn, Holly Tate, Michele Tullia Advertising Sales 910- 754-2300 buzz@bsrinc.org
© 2025 Brunswick Senior Resources Inc. All rights reserved www.bsrinc.org
Photo by Sherry Lamb
BRUNSWICK SENIOR RESOURCES, INC.
3620 Express Dr., P.O. Box 2470, Shallotte, NC 28459
www.bsrinc.org (910) 754-2300
Fax 910-754-9269 | Office Hours 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
BSRI Administration Staff
Jim Fish, President & CEO
Yvette Gosline, Chief Operating Officer
Jennifer Sherman, Chief Compliance Officer
Melody Stephens, Human Resources Generalist
Lindsay Cooley, Chief Financial Officer
Courtney Bledsoe, Director of Communications & Public Relations
Melissa Catlett, Director of Program Development
Holley Joyce, Community Health & Communications Specialist
Tammie Mullis, Food Services Manager
Jodi Lower, Volunteer Coordinator
Susan West, Housing Director
Pamela Faria, Housing Administrative Assistant
Nick Alexander, Corporate Controller
Anita Langin, Accounting Technician
Chauvet “Mel” Jackson, Operations Technician
Justin Benoy, Project Technician
Mike McGurn, Manager of Thrift Store Operations
Robert Goodman, Thrift Store Assistant Manager
Betty Hewett, Thrift Store Managing Associate
Lois Little, Thrift Store
Managing Associate
Diane Gill, Thrift Store Managing Associate
Vaughn Hatley, Program Services Technician
Derissa Gore, Aging Resource Compliance Officer/ Data Systems Manager
Sandra Porcaro, Senior Aging Resource Specialist
Laura Collins, Aging Resource Specialist
Tikila Morgan, Aging Resource Specialist
Victoria Hine, Aging Resource Specialist
Kenneth Chisholm, Aging Resource Specialist
Marilou Smith, Medication Access Specialist
Teresa Muchler-Nogi, Aging Resource Compliance Assistant
Nikki Hanna, Intake and Support Administrator
Floating Staff
Farrah Reid
Shelley Cooper
BSRI Center Staff
The Brunswick Center at Calabash
Heather Puglisi, Program Manager
Lisa Henrich
Linda Nasbe
Sharon Klouser
Emma Sullivan
The Brunswick Center at Leland
Brittany Steinkamp, Program Manager
Roberta Horne
Erin Chubka
Janyce Jones
Kendra Stokes
Renee Moore
The Brunswick Center at Shallotte
Tonya Barnes, Program Manager
Robin Kennedy
Quinton McCallum
Bob Ferdenzi
Taylor West
The Brunswick Center at Southport
Jackie Knott, Program Manager
Maggie Horrigan
Dean Francisco
Beverly Bridgers
Lora Britanik
Jerry Alvarado
John Latour
The Brunswick Center at Supply
Grace Helms
Program Manager
Juli Newton
Makayla Olson Gisela Rodriguez
The Brunswick Center at Waccamaw
Madison Norris Garrell
Charlotte McAfee
Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 919-814-5400. The license is not an endorsement by the state.
BSRI STAFF MEMBER OF THE MONTH
Nikki Hanna
Intake and Support Administrator
Nikki takes incoming phone calls, assists aging resource specialists, helps with the SHIIP program, and is a vital part of BSRI’s crisis team for homelessness and help with food insecurities. She serves on the board for the Cape Fear Curriculum of Care, where she chairs the Brunswick Subcommittee.
“I grew up in Chesterton, IN, not far from Chicago,” Nikki says. “My first job was at Cold Stone Creamery.” She loves helping others and seeing smiles on their faces.
“Nikki has outstanding dedication, compassion, and leadership,” says Chief Compliance Officer Jennifer Sherman. “She is often the first point of contact for those seeking help. Her ability to balance so many vital roles while maintaining a spirit of teamwork and compassion truly reflects the heart of BSRI’s mission.”
Nikki’s first car was a Pontiac G6. She keeps busy listening to the podcast
Hanna, continued on page 6
Giving Tuesday: Paula’s Story of Hope
ByCourtneyBledsoe Directorof Communications & Public Relations
For Paula, home has always been her comfort and her pride. But over time, health challenges and limited mobility began to make even the simplest daily tasks difficult. As a Meals on Wheels recipient supported by BSRI’s Aging Resources, Paula welcomed our team into her home — and that’s when we saw the reality she was quietly living with.
Her front ramp had become unsafe. Her bathroom was nearly impossible to use. Each day, her independence and health were slipping away because her home no longer supported her needs.
Thanks to grant funding from the Choosing Home grant, our partnership with WARM, and the compassion of our staff and volunteers, Paula’s ramp and bathroom were repaired. Today, she can move safely through her home again — and with that, she’s regained a new sense of dignity, security, and hope.
Giving Tuesday Can Help
This Giving Tuesday, BSRI is building a Crisis Fund to help more seniors like Paula — providing emergency home repairs, personal care, and urgent support when life takes an unexpected turn.
And this year, your generosity goes twice as far. Our premier matching
partner, Cranwood Enterprises, along with our featured partner properties — Beacon Landing and Calabash Shores — will match every donation, dollar for dollar, up to $10,000.
Go to www.bsrinc.org/ givingtuesday to learn more or donate today. Follow BSRI on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ BrunswickSeniorResourcesInc) to see Paula’s full story and discover how your support is making a difference this Giving Tuesday.
Donations to BSRI allow our Crisis Fund to help people like Paula stay in their homes by providing much-needed repairs, like this new wheelchair ramp. Thank you!
Photos by Courtney Bledsoe
Shallotte Thrift Store Fall Fashion Show
ByMikeMcGurn ThriftStoresOperationsManager
InOctober, our Shallotte Thrift Store volunteers and employees put on a fun Fall/Halloween Fashion Show for friends, customers, and families.
The show was emceed by Assistant Thrift Store Operations Manager Robert Goodman who provided music and colorful narration. Volunteer models were Patty Garrison, Ann Beisemann, Virginia Gore, Julie Farris, Lori McGowan, and Emory Saghy. Volunteers Mary Worstell and Ramona Fritschi were a big help backstage. Employee Bob Dye also modeled while employee Alison Riso provided runway and backstage assistance.
Employee Jalen Bryant handled filming and photography.
Six door prizes were raffled off, and Tanya Cozart won the $50 Gift Card Grand Prize. Congratulations, Tanya! And thanks to everyone who attended and participated.
Be on the lookout for a spring fashion show next year!
Above, left to right, are Patti Garrison, Bob Dye, Ann Beisemann, Virginia Gore, Grand Prize Winner Tanya Cozart, Emory Saghy, Lori McGowan, and Robert Goodman.
ARBOR LANDING MAKES A LARGE DONATION TO BSRI THRIFT STORES
Thekind and generous folks at Arbor Landing of Ocean Isle Beach recently made a large donation to BSRI Thrift Stores, and even had a moving company with a large truck deliver the donation to our storage facility in Calabash. That will tell you how big a donation it was!
Spearheading the donation decision and directing it to our Thrift Stores were Executive Director Amy Causey and Business Office Manager Kaitlyn Puglisi. They were renovating some of the offices and meeting
rooms and needed to make way for the new. They knew that they had a lot of really nice furniture and wanted to help an organization that was aligned with their mission of providing the very best living facilities for local seniors.
We’re very happy that they chose BSRI so we can continue to promote the well-being and enhance the quality of life for senior adults in Brunswick County. We can’t thank Amy
and Kaitlyn enough for this large donation of high-quality furniture and office décor. As of the writing of this article, although we’ve sold about 75 percent of the donation, we still have a good many very nice items left.
We would like to express our appreciation and gratitude for this very generous and humbling donation. Thank you, Amy and Kaitlyn, and thank you, Arbor Landing of Ocean Isle Beach. You have helped us make a big difference if the lives of our local seniors with this very gracious donation!
PUZZLES
FICTIONAL CANINES
ACROSS
1. *”Call of the Wild” dog
5. Lightning McQueen, e.g.
8. Island near Java
12. Popular hairdo in the 1960s and ‘70s
13. Governmental space agency, acr.
14. Meat in a casing
15. Larry Bird’s target
16. Narrative poem
17. Richard Bachman to Stephen King
18. *Sherman’s Mr. ____
20. Fence plank
21. Small jar
22. FedEx competitor
23. *Tabaqui of “The Jungle Book”
26. Most vital part
30. a.k.a. Home of the Brave
31. Bewilder
34. Y’all
35. Phonograph media
37. Williams sister’s return
38. “Two mints in one” classic mints
39. Celt
40. Red carpet suit
42. Pirate’s turf
43. Flag on a ship, pl.
45. Solar system model
47. Like a fiddle
48. Sweating room
50. Chesterfield, e.g.
52. *National Crime Prevention Council’s mascot
54. “The Martian” (2015) actor Matt ____
55. Verbal exam
56. Half-man, half-goat
59. Deflect
60. Charge a tax
61. Division word
62. Darn a sock, e.g.
63. Bo Peep follower
64. Long, long time
DOWN
1. Scrooge’s exclamation
2. E.T. transporter, e.g.
3. Photo editing option
4. 1/100th of a ruble
5. Mafia’s top dogs
6. “All joking ____”
7. Risqué
8. *Target’s mascot
9. “Si, mi chiamo Mimi” in La Boheme, e.g.
10. Law school test acronym
11. “____ a Wonderful Life”
13. Interstellar cloud
14. Flying stingers
19. Omani and Yemeni
22. Consume
23. TV Judy’s title
24. Of the Orient
25. Lawyers’ loads
26. Major European river
27. Relating to Scandinavia
28. Like a button, but more so
29. English homework
32. Swine and avian diseases
33. *Maid Marian of Disney’s “Robin Hood” movie (1973)
36. *The Big Red Dog
38. ____copia
40. Blast maker, acr.
41. Sullenly
44. James Dean’s last movie (1956)
46. Basket-making fiber
48. Nut holder
49. Tequila source
50. “____ me a seat”
51. Damien’s prediction
52. Lawn pest
53. *Rubeus Hagrid’s faithful boarhound
54. Beaver’s edifice
57. Beehive State native
58. Us, in Mexico
SUDOKU
Make Way for Holiday Décor!
Lois Little Crafts Wreaths to Celebrate the Season
Story and photos by Holly Tate
If you like to celebrate the season with holiday décor in your home or office, Lois Little has you covered. Her wreaths and floral arrangements, all made on site with donated materials, are available for purchase at BSRI Thrift Stores’ Calabash location.
Thrift Store Managing Associate Little crafts her one-of-a-kind wreaths for all seasons of the year. But her holiday creations, which she’s working on now, are amazing. She regularly creates new motifs but also revives older wreaths by adding garlands, pinecones, ornaments, florals, and other elements.
A feeling for her work
Little has no formal design background but admits she has developed a certain feeling for her compositions. An eye for the best components also guides her designs. For example, she may begin by making a large bow with wide, colorful ribbon to anchor a wreath’s design. The bow could be the focal point or simply part of the overall décor.
“If a wreath is going to sell, I want it to be nice,” Little says.
Priced at $15 to $45, depending on size, most of the 45-50 wreaths she makes each season sell out.
Little’s designs also decorate the Calabash store itself and are rotated to reflect the seasons, creating a warm atmosphere for shoppers whenever they visit.
Gratitude
How does she do it all? Little cites her gratitude for the store’s volunteers, calling them the most important support group at the BSRI Thrift Stores.
“I feel really blessed to work in this atmosphere and have wonderful people to support me,” Little says.
Lois Little created this striking piece for BSRI Thrift Stores’ Calabash location.
The cheerful seasonal wreaths are made by Lois Little using donated materials at the BSRI Thrift Stores.
Home Is Where the Is
By Shelagh Clancy, Editor
by Pamela Faria
Like most of the US, Brunswick County is facing a housing shortage. According to the Brunswick County Association of Realtors, the county’s available housing is limited, leaving a housing gap of 15,414 units. There’s a current need for 3,545 more rental units and 11,869 sale units.
So Brunswick Senior Resources, Inc. (BSRI) is stepping up to help.
Unique needs for senior living
BSRI is facilitating new developments in Brunswick County that meet the needs of older adults, including Beacon Landing in Ocean Isle Beach and Calabash Shores in Calabash. We’re working with Calabash Meadows in
Calabash, too. And there’s more in the pipeline.
“It’s awesome to be able to control rents and help our seniors,” says BSRI Director of Housing Susan West. BSRI has partnered with Capital Investment Group and other investors to build and manage new apartments, West says. “This keeps people out of assisted living, which can be three times the rent. And we make sure tenants get connected with others in the community and with our senior centers.”
Older adults need and appreciate amenities such as transportation, meals, and medical services. BSRI communities can offer transportation to doctor’s appointments, groceries, and pharmacies. And they’re close to BSRI centers, which offer meals and programs.
Three sites have openings now
One brand-new complex is Beacon Landing, 1407 Sunset Creek Way in Ocean Isle Beach, a desirable location with walkability. Two separate building have 54 units each with one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments with screened porches. People are moving in now. Amenities are in process: landscaping, a medical component, activities, fitness center, bocce and shuffleboard courts, and more.
Calabash Meadows, Brunswick County’s newest and affordable 55+ community, offers spacious one- and two-bedroom apartment homes at 410 Calabash Road NW in Calabash. The community offers open floor plans, walk-in closets, washer/dryer hookups, window treatments, ceiling fans, a secure
Photos
A cozy living room at Beacon Landing in Ocean Isle Beach invites tenants to sit a spell. The new complex boasts one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments with screened porches.
entry system, and a community room and exercise room.
Calabash Shores, at 660 Aubrey Lane in Calabash, is conveniently sited behind the senior center. It offers one- and two-bedroom apartments with included utilities and special amenities, including a clubhouse, a pool and water aerobics, a theater, a fitness center, classes, and a daily meal.
Both properties include an on-site nurse and a medical exam room, and the units are pet-friendly. A good variety of people are moving in, with both couples and single men and women.
BSRI’s next housing endeavors will be sited at the 23 acres next to Carolina Shores, and then in Shallotte, behind the senior center.
Addressing affordable housing
“Well over 500 people are waiting for housing. I probably get 10 calls a week looking for affordable housing,” West says. A large percentage of housing need
is for low-income housing. To help meet the need, a portion of each BSRI community is set aside as subsidized housing, with the rest of the units’ pricing at market rates.
BSRI partners with communities like Sunset Creek Commons and Calabash Meadows to provide affordable senior housing through the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program. These sites have restricted rents with eligibility based on household size and income, generally below 60 percent of our area’s median income.
The Brunswick County Homeless Coalition lists a dozen options for communities with affordable
housing on its website at brunswickhomeless.com/crisishelp/affordable-housing/. And Brunswick County sometimes has help available through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (brunswickcountync. gov/Faq.aspx?QID=408), which is opened by lottery when funds become available. People also are seeking co-living lifestyles with roommates, and even tiny houses and ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units).
Find out more
“BSRI assists with housing needs by partnering with Capital Investment Group, by acting as property managers, and by providing staff like myself to help direct people. I may be a first step for people seeking housing, to help direct them to the next step,” West says. “Our goal is to keep our seniors independent longer, and to assist them. We can serve as a liaison or concierge, matching people to properties and services.”
To learn more, fill out the housing form on the BSRI website: bsrinc. org/housing/. Our staff will call and help direct you to the most helpful
Calabash Meadows offers affordable housing options in a 55+ community right in the town of Calabash.
A Calabash Shores eat-in kitchen welcomes diners. The community is full of amenities like a pool and a clubhouse, and it’s right behind the senior center.
PROM-ising New Memories at Southport
Health and Rehabilitation Center
ByBethA.Klahre
PhotographsbyLizMueller
Calling all Ladies: Dig out the fanciest dress from the back of your closet, and find the matching pumps in the shoe box under your bed.
Listen up, Gents: Dust off that suit jacket, and make sure your wingtips are spit-shined like a mirror.
There’s a prom to attend!
Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center on Fodale
Nurse Allie Davis, left, and Volunteer Tina Clark, right, help Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center resident Suzan Fogle choose something beautiful to wear to the prom. Gala attire and accessories were donated by the community, and more donations and assistance are welcome. All photos courtesy Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Avenue will be transformed into Winter Wonderland on the evening of Jan. 30, 2026. “Residents who never attended a prom will finally have this experience, and those who did go to a prom in their younger days will have a chance to relive it,” says Tina Clarke, Southport resident and event volunteer.
Clarke has been collecting donated prom attire including gowns, suits, shoes, belts and jewelry and recruiting volunteers. “We need many volunteers to do hair, nails and makeup, and
we need others to accompany residents to the prom as their dates,” says Clarke. “We especially need lots of dates.”
A Handwritten Letter
Holding a prom was the idea of full-time resident Mary Palmore. She wrote a letter to Liz Mueller, activity director at Southport Health and Rehab, suggesting the idea. “If a resident asks for an activity, I will try to make it happen,” says Mueller. “Mary has never asked for a thing. The letter was sweet, and Mary is such a kind lady. So I want the prom to be over the top and amazing for her. We will be merry, and we will dance and talk and eat. Mary suggested ice cream, so we must have ice cream. We will crown a king, queen, prince and princess. We are still deciding on after-prom parties.”
Local Volunteers: Priceless in So Many Ways
The list of volunteers supporting both the pre-prom planning and the prom continues to grow. A decorating committee led by Mary Lou Bishoff will transform the dining room at the center into a winter wonderland. Jabbertown Jazz Junction, a trio led by vocalist Dawn Drabble, will provide musical entertainment. Every
prom attendee will receive a boutonnière or corsage crafted by Mary Johnson. Prom photos will be taken by Kristi, a Southport photographer.
Mueller hopes that each female resident will have her own glam squad “to make her extra beautiful.” And she hopes for a date for the two-hour event for every resident, 24 men and 47 women.
“I love the residents at Southport Health and Rehabilitation,” says Clarke, who has been the volunteerextraordinaire at the center for over six years. “I am in awe of those who stay positive and upbeat even though they have health issues, have lost their independence, and have had to leave their homes. Makes me think twice about complaining because the weather is bad, and I can’t go to the beach.”
Danielle Peters, administrator at the center, concludes, “We are so excited to host a prom for our residents. We always want to honor our residents’ requests, and this was such an excellent idea. It is
Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center resident Mary Palmore had the big idea for the senior prom. At left is the letter she wrote to suggest the event.
important to all of us to have an event like this. We know it will uplifting and exciting for our residents and staff.”
Be a Part of This Memorable Magical Night
Donate your no-longer-needed gala attire and accessories. Join the
decorating committee. Be part of a glam squad. Dress to the nines, and accompany a resident to the prom. Maybe even spin your date around in his or her wheelchair to the beat of the bass guitar. You will be making new memories that will last a lifetime.
Contact Liz Mueller at 910-457-9581 to volunteer.
Decorate Your Holiday Table with Delicious Color!
ByJoanLeotta
Acolorful plate can make food itself a star in your holiday décor. And it’s more than a fashion statement. Nutritionists tout the vitamin C of varied colored peppers, and the vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and other nutrients found in colorful foods.
Simply adding a few sliced red bell peppers to the top of a dish of sweet potatoes gives the dish some flair and added crunch. Chop up some cherry tomatoes and put them in the center of your mashed potato side dish.
Ideas for Adding Color
To combat the overwhelming beige, brown, and orange of Thanksgiving, add chopped red bell pepper to cornbread, or serve a side dish that has multiple colors, like the radish and brussels sprout dish on the next page.
Are you serving a charcuterie board? In addition to sliced meats and cheeses, add sliced vegetables: carrots, celery, colored bell peppers, and those multicolored cherry tomatoes.
How about a red cabbage slaw with carrot matchsticks and a bit of celery instead of a lettuce and tomato offering? A light vinaigrette (next page) makes this a fiber-rich, lower-calorie, colorful addition to your table.
Try a sliced beet salad: a simple circle of pickled beets on a plate, topped with goat cheese and a bit of parsley on top of the goat cheese—very festive!
To add color to any meal, use bell peppers (yellow, green, orange, and red), red cabbage, matchstick carrots, or red radishes. For instance, if mac and cheese is a favorite side dish at your family feasts, consider adding strips of red, orange, and green bell pepper to the top when serving. If you don’t want crunch, put the pepper strips in the microwave for about twenty
seconds before putting them on the top of the mac and cheese. You can add the peppers when you put the mac and cheese into the oven, but you will get a definite flavor of the peppers in that case.
Win-Win-Win with Color
Why go to the extra effort of thinking about colors? It’s not just for extra nutrition, additional crunch, and the desire to make something pretty. In this season of hope and thankfulness, when we are decorating the house, the trees inside and out, and putting out holiday dishes and table linens, why not take a few extra minutes to make the feast not only delicious, but also a collage of vibrant colors? Happy holidays, everyone!
Photo by Joan Leotta
BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH RADISHES
(adapted from Food Network Magazine)
Serves 2–4
12 brussels sprouts, trimmed and cut in half 10-12 large red radishes, top and bottom trimmed off, cut into half
4 Tbsp. butter
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 tsp. tarragon
2 tsp. freshly chopped Italian parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Put the sprouts into a dish with about two Tablespoons of water, cover, and microwave on high for one minute. Check. If they are still hard, add thirty more seconds until they are almost ready to eat.
Set aside. Do the same with the radishes. One minute should be enough.
Heat half of the butter in a frying pan and add the sprouts and radishes and all herbs and salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently. Add the rest of the butter. Heat through. You may need to add a Tablespoon or so of water to the pan as they cook. Serve warm.
RED CABBAGE AND CARROT SLAW
Serves 2–4
¼ head of red cabbage, sliced thin
1 ½ cups of matchstick carrots
1 rib of celery—two if you want—diced
¼ cup red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, diced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Gently toss the cabbage, carrots, and celery.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
Pour the vinaigrette over the slaw. Toss. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Photo by Joan Leotta
Button Up the Garden for Winter
ByMikeTullai
Ihope your yard was not affected negatively from lack of rain and the abundance of insects this summer. Here are a few tips to help your yards as we enter the winter season.
Lawns: We have so many different turfgrass varieties available. The lawn fact sheets from North Carolina Cooperative Extension are a great reference: see WarmSeason Turf Information and Calendars for Brunswick County (https://tinyurl.com/3azhhpc2).
The Extension office in Bolivia is preparing display areas for turfgrasses. They are looking into experimenting with a seedless bahia variety of turf.
Do not fertilize dormant lawns. It’s time to stop watering lawns, unless you recently laid down new sod. If we are entering a drought condition again, we should give
Farfugium is a lovely bloom in dreary November. This bloom is in the Reflection Garden at the Brunswick County Botanical Garden behind the Extension office.
Photos by Michele Tullai
the turf a drink.
It’s a good time to evaluate your sprinkler system. How many times do you drive down the street in a rain storm and see someone’s sprinkler on? If you do not have a rain sensor, consider installing one. A rain sensor or smart irrigation controller can help conserve water.
Continue raking or mowing over leaves on the lawn to prevent disease and suffocation.
Trees and shrubs: Now is a very good time to revitalize your landscape. Prune out any dead, dying or diseased limbs. If the winter is dry, or if it’s dry going into a cold spell, water all trees and shrubs. Remember, trees and
shrubs need to be watered all winter long. This minimizes cold damage to these plants.
An exception: do not plant any new palms at this time of the year, since they won’t have sufficient time to harden off before winter.
Plant them in early spring.
Rake and discard leaves and flowers that have fallen off of camelias to help eliminate insects and keep pathogens in check.
Cut your outside bananas to one foot above the ground after the first frost.
In December, thin hydrangeas of the oldest wood. The stems will have their bark defoliating. Cut no more than ¼ to 1/3 of the stems.
December is a good time to lightly prune rose of sharon, arborvitae, boxwood, holly, juniper, and ligustrum. Use the trimmings to decorate the home for the holidays.
Bulbs: Purchase bulbs when you first see them, but wait until November or early December to plant them. Remember, deer do not like daffodils and narcissus. Feed bulbs with bone meal at planting time.
If you would like to see other plants in bloom at this time of year or need some help in your landscape, visit the Brunswick County NC State Cooperative Extension at 25 Referendum Drive in Bolivia. or go to https:// brunswick.ces.ncsu.edu/.
“Winter is Coming,” Mike says from the North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill.
Literary Gifts for Every Taste
ByDonnaRuthMorgan
Whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts or finding something for yourself (we all do it), you’ll find a book here to please every reader. Happy holidays from The Buzz!
The Land of Sweet Forever (2025) is a posthumous selection of newly discovered stories and previously published materials written before and after To Kill a Mockingbird.
Nostalgic remin-
iscences of Harper Lee’s Alabama childhood contrast with her dark, satirical gothic penchant as an outside observer. A profile of Truman Capote, a recipe for cornbread, and a letter to Oprah Winfrey round out the collection. Nutshell review: A fitting tribute to a talented lady.
Hype: The Notebook meets Sixth Sense. Reality: Remain (2025) is formulaic and disappointingly predictable. Great settings and plenty of emotion (Nicholas Sparks) and a creeping atmosphere of disquiet and dread (M. Night Shyalaman) display the authors’ talents. Star-crossed lovers alternate chapter voices while
solving a murder. The writing is a bit uneven and the mystery works better than the romance.
Nutshell review:
A love story with supernatural twists and turns.
Clean comic Nate Bargatze shares deadpan humor in Big Dumb Eyes: Stories from a Simpler Mind (2025). This part memoir, part standup comedy routine is written in conversational style, with nonsequential chapters and blank pages to give readers a break… because (according to Nate) reading is hard. Find plenty of silliness and get chuckles from the author’s observations about the absurdity of life in this quirky book. Nutshell review: Pure entertainment from a Southern perspective.
opportunity to identify, while close, third-person narration opens a window into the psyche of a mother working through trauma while protecting her children. Flashbacks illuminate the plot of this dark whodunit, Tracy Sierra’s first novel.
Nutshell review: Suspense thriller about overcoming a disturbing ordeal and being vindicated.
Thoughtful Cooking: Recipes
Intruder alert! Nightwatching (2024) explores the overlap of past and present danger. Unnamed characters (other than the antagonist) offer readers
Rooted in the New South (2024) is a beautifully illustrated, thoughtful paean to gastronomy. Asheville Chef William Dissen is passionate about food—his cookbook is a “seasonal culinary journey” with eightyplus recipes (including cocktails).
Traditional dishes are updated with modern techniques, interspersed with memories of past meals.
Nutshell review: Definitely not for novices, but filled with inspiring and mouthwatering culinary delights.
Madison Garrell, Program Manager
Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
9:30 SeatedStretching
10:15BalanceClass 11:00BrainandBodyFitness 11:30Lunch 12:30Cornhole 1:30IndependentCreativeHour
Tuesday
9:15PuzzleGroup
9:30GeriFit
10:30HalfMileParkWalk N 11:30Lunch 12:30BibleStudy 1:30CardioDrumming
9:15L.A.Quilters
9:30FloorStretching
10:15ChairAerobics 11:30Lunch 12:30CraftswithLaura R 1:30CardGames
9:15PuzzleGroup
9:30GeriFit
10:30Trivia 11:30Lunch 12:30MovieandPopcorn 12:30Cornhole
9:15IndependentCreativeHour
9:30BrainChallenge N 10:15CardioDrumming 11:30Lunch 12:30PuzzleGroup 1:30CardGames
1stTuesday:WaccamawWhiskTakers
1stWednesday:BloodPressureChecks
LastThursday:BirthdayCelebration
DailyDropinActivities:Rummikub,Knitting/ Crocheting,CoffeewithFriends,Puzzles,Reading, ExerciseEquipment
No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed
The Coastal Buzz
Madison Garrell, Program Manager
Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed
December
2 WaccamawWhiskTakers R @1pm
5 SpecialCraftwithLorie R @10am
8 WinterSpiritWeekStarts EachdayMonday-Fridayhasadifferenttheme! 10 BrunswickSafetyI.D.Program N
January
WaccamawWhiskTakers(HolidaySpecial) R @1pm
6 WaccamawWhiskTakers R @1pm 7 BloodPressureChecks 11am-12pm
8 WhatToDoIfYouFallPresentation ByMadisonGarrell@12:30pm
February
3 WaccamawWhiskTakers R @1pm 6 NationalWearRedDay
10 BloodConnectionBloodDrive 9am-12pm
HalfMilePark Walkwith MadisonGarrell, MaryCollins, BroniHolcomb, BeverlyLewis, AltaInman, TeresaJohnson, WandaEvans, WaddellEvans andJeanette Mintz
BrunswickSafetyI.D.Program N
Celebration
Halloween
with WandaandWaddellEvans
Special OysterShell Christmas TreeCraft with Teresa, Wanda, Waddell, Cathy,and Geraldine
Madison Garrell, Program Manager
Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Waccamaw Whisk Takers
This monthly cooking demo with Tammie Mullis is sure to broaden your palate and leave you with delicious and healthy recipes to try at home!
February is National Heart Health Month
We will be celebrating by participating in National Wear Red Day on February 6th!
We will also host a blood drive through The Blood Connection on February 10th from 9am-12pm!
You can use this opportunity to adopt a hearthealthy diet, focus on increasing your physical activity levels, managing your stress levels, and scheduling a check up with your cardiologist!
Center Closures
December 22nd-January 2nd
January 19th– MLK Jr. Day
910-287-3998
Winter Spirit Week
December 8-12
Get in the holiday spirit by dressing up each day to follow the theme!
Monday 8th– Holiday Headgear
Wear your favorite festive hat, headband, etc.
Tuesday 9th– Winter Wonderland Whiteout
Dress in as much white attire as you can!
Wednesday 10th– Sweater Weather
Funky or Fashionable, come dressed in your favorite holiday sweater!
Thursday 11th– Candy Cane Craze
Just like a candy cane, dress in red and white from head to toe!
Friday 12th– Long Winter’s Nap
Let’s get cozy! Wear your comfiest festive pajamas.
Brunswick Safety ID Program
Is your information available for first responders if you become unable to communicate or missing?
Do you have an existing emergency contact?
This free program stores this information for you on a flash drive in case of an emergency.
Visit on the following dates for more info: December 8th, January 14th, February 11th
BSRI Nutrition Program:
12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday
BSL Program Information: BSL.recdesk.com or contact Amy Segen at 910.363.0166 or asegen@cityofbsl.org
Monday Friday Wednesday Tuesday Thursday
8:30am Yoga
10am Move & Groove
11am Fit 4 Life
12pm BSRI Lunch
12:30pm Senior Table Games 6:30pm Line Dancing
December 2025
Yoga
Move & Groove 11am Fit 4 Life 12pm BSRI Lunch 12:30pm Senior Table Games 8:30am Yoga 10am Move & Groove 11am Fit 4 Life 12pm BSRI Lunch 12:30pm Senior Table Games
January 2026
February 2026
CALABASH
Heather Puglisi, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
8:15 Core,Floor,&More
9:00 20/20/20
10:15 CoreStrength&Balance (lastclass12/15)
9:00 ZumbaGOLD
9:00 CardGames
10:15 Strength&Tone
10:30 BeginnerDulcimerR^(Lastclass12/9)
7:45 TaiChiGroup
9:00 20/20/20
9:30 MexicanTrainDominoGame
10:30 Int.Dulcimer
8:45 Strength&Tone
9:00 CardGames
10:00 GentleYoga
10:00 Trivia
11:45 LunchServed
9:00 TaiYo(Z)athome
9:00 ZumbaGold$5
10:00BoxingandMusic
Men’sShed:2nd&4thThursday,from10:30-11:30am
BasicFundamentalILineDancing:MondaysJan5,12,26, Feb2,9, @6-7:30$30R^Note:Jan22@4 (6wksession)
MarbleBoardGame:1st&3rdWednesday@12:30pm
CaregiverSupportGroup:4thWednesday@1:30pm
GuitarJam:1stand3rdThursdays@1:00pm
BibleStudy:1st&3rdFridaysat9:00am
10050 Beach Dr. SW Calabash, NC 28467 910-754-7427
11:45 LunchServed
12:30 Canasta
12:30 Linda’sCraftR^$1
1:30 TaiChiGroup
10:45 ChairYoga *
11:45 LunchServed
12:45 GeriFit
12:30 HooksandNeedlesClub
11:45 LunchServed
12:30 Hand&FootCardGame
12:30 Beg.Mah-JonggR^
12:30 Mah-Jongg 12:45 Geri-Fit
6:00 BasicFundLineDancing
7:00 Beg.IILineDancing
11:45 LunchServed 1:00 BeginnerIILineDancing 2:00 IntermediateLineDancing
DecemberClosuredates:
Recreationandwellnessactivitieswillnotbescheduled fromDec.22,2025throughJan.2,2026duetocapital improvementprojects.Alllocationswillresumeregular operationsandprogrammingonJan.5,2026.
Jan.19ClosedMartinLutherKingDay
BeginnerDulcimerTuesdaysat10:30R^2/10-4/28
No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed
The Coastal Buzz
CALABASH
Heather Puglisi, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
&
DECEMBER
Craftw/Linda-BelieveDoorHanger R^$1 9 12:00BBB Presentation(withSpamprevention) 10:30LastBeginnerDulcimerClass
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
CALABASH
Heather Puglisi, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cinema at the Center. Grab a friend and come in at the Center. Grab friend and in and enjoy a great movie! and enjoy a great movie!
Friday, December 12, 2025 Friday, 12, 2025
10050 Beach Dr. SW Calabash, NC 28467
910-754-7427
MED INSTEAD OF MEDS DIET CLASS WITH AVERY, NC EXTENSION TUESDAYS
FEBRUARY 3, 10, 17, & 24, 2026 10:00 AM
Friday, January 9, 2026
Friday, January 9, 2026 Friday, January 9, 2026
Friday, January 9, 2026
Friday, January 23, 2026
Friday, January 23, 2026 Friday, 23, 2026
Friday, 23, 2026
Friday, February 13, 2026
Friday, February 13, 2026
Friday, Friday,
Friday, Friday, To
Friday, February 27, 2026
Friday, February 27, 2026
Enjoy a good book and great company. Book Club meets Monday, Dec 8 @ 10 am Monday, January 12 @ 10 am Monday, February 9 @ 10 am
CALABASH
Heather Puglisi, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Days the Center will be CLOSED:
December 22, 2025—January 2, 2026
Recreation, Wellness activities canceled due to Capital Improvement projects January 19, 2026
Kind Keepers Animal Rescue
Feb 13 10-12
Come out for some puppy love
Kissing booth $1 help support a great cause
Blood Drive
Friday,Dec.5,2025,Time: 8-1
Friday,Jan.30,2026,Time:8-1
Signuptoreserveyourspot. Helpsavealife.
10050 Beach Dr. SW Calabash, NC 28467 910-754-7427
Brunswick County Library Bookmobile
Friday, December 5, 2025
Friday, January 16, 2026 12:15-1:00
Blood Connec ons Blood Drive April 25, 8:00 am– 1:00 pm FRESH PRODUCE FROM LOCAL FARMERS
Brunswick County Literacy Council
Have you ever wondered how to do a Zoom Mee ng? Join Brunswick County Literacy Council and learn about Media Awareness. December 2 at 10 a.m. R^
The Coastal Buzz
LELAND
Brittany Steinkamp, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4 Monday
9:15aGeri-Fit
10:30aTaiChiforArthritis&FallPrevention PartII
11:30aLunch
8:30aClassicalMatPilates
9:30aIntensityTraining
10:00aAcrylicPainting
10:00aLelandLarks
10:30aBibleStudyZ
9:15aGeri-Fit
10:00aCrafts
10:30aLineDance(Intermediate)
11:30aLunch
121 Town Hall Drive NE Leland, NC 28451 910-754-7701
1-3pMahJongg 1:30pCardioDance
11:30aLunch
12:30pSleepMats
12:30pPinochle
2:00pCardioDrumming
friday
8:30aClassicalMatPilates$12
9:30aCircuitTraining
10:00aBingo
10:30aTaiChiforArthritis&FallPrevention
12:30pAcrylicPainting
1:00pHand&Foot/SuperSamba
1:45pQuiltingClass
2:00pYogaStretch$5
11:30aLunch
12:30pPinochle 1-3pPainting 1:30pCardioDance
10:00aLineDance(Advanced)
10:30aLineDance(Beginners)
11:30a Lunch
1st&3rdTuesday,12:30p:Knit/CrochetClass
3rdWednesday,10:45a:BloodPressureChecks
2nd&4thThursday,2p:MentalHealthTalkGroup
4thThursday,10a:CaregiverSupportGroup
1stFriday(AtLunch):Mo.BirthdayCelebration
12pParkinson’sExercise(Bronze)$ 2:00pa ChairYoga $5
1st&3rdFriday,9-12:QuiltingBee
4thFriday,12:30p:TechTopics
No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed
The Coastal Buzz
LELAND
Brittany Steinkamp, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4
LELAND
Brittany Steinkamp, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4
WARMING UP FOR WINTER!
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to slow down and enjoy life’s simple comforts. Curl up with a good book or watch a heartwarming movie with these favorite picks from Leland’s sta, and participants:
Book recommendations-
•The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
•Fairy Tale by Stephen King
•The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
•Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
•Remarkably Bright Creatures, Shelby Van Pelt
•Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
•A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
•A Dog Named Christmas by Greg Kincaid
•Mistletoe Promise by Richard Paul Evans
Movie recommendations-
•It’s a Wonderful Life
•A Christmas Story
•Miracle on 34th Street
•Elf
•Red One
•Scrooge
•Klaus
•White Christmas
•The Family Stone
•Home Alone
•Mary Poppins
•Polar Express
•How the Grinch Stole Christmas
•National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
•The Holiday
•Love Actually
•The Christmas Chronicles
•Family Switch
•Christmas with the Kranks
121 Town Hall Drive NE
Leland, NC 28451
910-754-7701
What’s with all the penguins?
It’s a scavenger hunt! Count how many penguins you can find within the Leland pages, then bring your answer to the front desk in Leland to win a candy cane treat!
the Alzheimer’s Associa on: The holidays are o&en filled with sharing, laughter, and memories, but they can also bring stress, disappointment, or sadness. Overwhelmed caregivers may view tradi"onal holiday prepara"ons as more of a drain of energy than a joy, and family and friends may be uncertain how to handle change. On December 3rd at 10a, join us for the Holidays & Alzheimer’s Program with the Alzheimer’s Associa"on. Sign up at the front desk.
Center Closure Dates
The center will be closed: Mon., December 22-Fri, January 2nd The center will reopen on Mon., January 5th Mon., January 19th—Mar"n Luther King Jr. Day
From
LELAND
Brittany Steinkamp, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4
121 Town Hall Drive NE
Leland, NC 28451
910-754-7701
What is your favorite Winter memory?
Going outside with my brother. We would build a snowman or a fort. We would also make tracks in the snow. The snow would get pre y deep in Connec cut. There were woods surrounding where we lived, so it was fun to see all the animal tracks in the snow. My dad was very cra"y, so one year he made me a sled. My parents would go to auc ons and they brought me back a dolly. My dad also surprised me with a cradle for my dolly one year.
—Ann D.
We lived on a 140-acre farm, so we would go sledding down big hills. One year, I had a brand new coat, and we decided to go sledding. I wore my coat, and we went under a barbed wire fence. It snagged my coat! My parents were not happy.
—Sandy R.
When I was in first grade, my house burned down and we lost everything. I was talking about Christmas with my older sister, saying it wasn’t going to be a very good Christmas. Well, Santa brought a ball, bat, and a glove to my brother. It turned out to be the best Christmas we’d ever had!
—Helen C.
Being out in the cold was my favorite. I liked playing in the snow. In New York, there was a blizzard every year, and we’d have three feet of snow. We’d make hills and slide over everything. I loved going inside a"er a day in the snow and smelling all the aromas coming from the kitchen. As I got older, I always had to be out in the street when it first got cold. It was my favorite me of year.
—Calvin P.
Extra Help for Medicare Beneficiaries with Limited Income
Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and assets may qualify for Extra Help, the federal Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) program, which helps cover out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Part D prescription drugs. In North Carolina, more than 80,000 Medicare beneficiaries may be eligible but have not yet applied.
The Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), a division of the N.C. Department of Insurance, is partnering with organizations across the state to help beneficiaries understand and apply for Extra Help.
“Many who are eligible for this assistance are not aware that it is available to them,” says Insurance
Commissioner Mike Causey. “Our goal is to spread the word about Extra Help to Medicare beneficiaries statewide and get them enrolled so they can start receiving support with their prescription drug costs.”
Brunswick Senior Resources, Inc. can assist with the enrollment process. To get assistance, call 910-754-2300, option 1, and ask for SHIIP help.
Eligibility Requirements:
• Single: Monthly income up to $1,903 and assets up to $17,600
• Married: Monthly income up to $2,575 and assets up to $35,130
SHIIP’s trained volunteers provide free, unbiased, one-on-one counseling on Medicare, including:
• Medicare Supplements
• Medicare Part D
• Medicare Advantage plans
• Health plan options
• Long-term care insurance
For more information or to get help, call 1-855-408-1212 or visit www.ncshiip.com.
STATE POINT MEDIA PUZZLES ON PAGE 10
OAK ISLAND
Sue Kaiser, Community Center Assistant Operating Hours: Monday through Friday,
910-278-6552 for Reservations
SHALLOTTE
Tonya Barnes, Program Manager
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
8:00BilliardsPractice
9:00BilliardsGames
9:30CardioLowImpact/HighIntensity
10:30FitforLifeExercise
3620 Express Drive
Shallotte, NC 28470
910-754-2300 1001
10:00BeginnerLineDancing
11:00Basic/Intermediate LineDancing 11:30Intermediate LineDancing 11:30Lunch
8:00BilliardsPractice
9:00BilliardsGames
9:00Bridge
10:00GeriFit 11:00Aerobics/Dance 11:30Lunch 1:00CashBingo$
8:00BilliardsPractice
9:00BilliardsGames
9:30CardioLowImpact/HighIntensity
10:15ArtsandCraftsw/Ann
10:30FitforLifeExercise
8:00BilliardsPractice
9:00BilliardsGames
10:00GeriFit
10:00MatYoga/Chairyoga
10:00BeginnerLineDancing 11:00Basic/Intermediate LineDancing 11:30IntermediateLineDancing 11:30Lunch
11:00ThroughFire(Boxing) 11:00Aerobics/Dance 11:30Lunch 1:00ArtClass/AllMediaswithJoan 1:00Mah-Jongg 1:00BilliardsTournament
8:00BilliardsPractice
9:00BilliardsGames
9:30Pilates
10:30Tabata 11:30Lunch 11:30ZumbawithJoan
No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed
The Coastal Buzz
SHALLOTTE
Barnes, Program
DECEMBER
JANUARY
MONDAY:LockwoodFolleyWomen’sClub Presentation7:30pm(Kristy&Tonya)
FeastDownEastMobileFarmers Market11-1pm
CenterClosedforMartin LutherKingJr.
ArtsandCraftswithAnnand Lori10:15am(EveryWednesday)
TUESDAY:EducationbyBrunswick PhysicalTherapy11:45am
FEBRUARY
AmericanHeritageGirls CraftingwithParticipants10:30am
FRIDAY:SweetheartDance11am Music, DancingandPhotoWallforpictures.
SHALLOTTE
Tonya Barnes, Program Manager
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
SHALLOTTE
Tonya Barnes, Program Manager
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Blood Connection
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 8 a.m.-noon. Come give to the community around you.
3620 Express Drive
Shallotte, NC 28470
910-754-2300 1002
We love and appreciate all of our volunteers! We couldn't do this without you.
“Those humble, quiet, behind-the-scenes people are the reason anything ever gets done.” Marti, Vaughn, Marsha and Rich
SOUTHPORT
Jackie Knott, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4; Lunch daily at 11:30am
Monday
Tuesday
9:00YogaforHealthyBones$Z
9:00TaiChiforBeginners
9:30Hand,Knee&FootCanasta
10:00TaiChiforSeniors$
9:00Boxing
9:30Bridge
10:00TechHelp(firstTuesdayofthemonth)
10:15Geri-Fit
9:00YogaforHealthyBones$Z
9:00TaiChiforBeginners
10:00TaiChiforSeniors$
10:00-12:00CellPhoneHelpw/Shirley (byappointment)
Thursday
friday
9:00Boxing$
9:00ActiveStretch
9:30KnitandChainGang
10:00BibleStudywithJoel Z
10:15Geri-Fit
11:30BeginningLineDance Z
9:00YogaforHealthyBones$Z
9:30Hand,Knee&FootCanasta
10:30ChairYoga$Z
3rdMondays,1:00pm:StrokeSupportGroup
2ndTuesdays,11:00am:BloodPressureChecks
EveryotherTuesdayoftheMonth: SquareDancing
1513 N. Howe St., Ste. 1 Southport, NC 28461 910-754-7109
10:00CardMaking
10:30ChairYoga$Z
1:00MahJongg(newcomerswelcome!)
6:00JamSession
12:15Pinochle(newcomerswelcome!)
1:00SilverPaddles(PingPong)
2:30FitandStrong
10:30 ChairYoga$Z
10:30-12:00ArtSmart$
12:30BibleStudy–Interfaith 12:30JewelryClass
12:15Pinochle
1:00IntermediateLineDancingZ
1:00BegBridge
1:00MahJongg(newcomerswelcome!)
2:00TaiChiforArthritisandFall Prevention
12:30SigningwithDottie 2:00HandDrumming(newcomers welcome!)
2:30FitandStrong
EveryotherWednesdayoftheMonth,1:00pm: PhotographyClub 4thWednesdays,10:00am:CaregiversSupportGroup (Newmembersalwayswelcome!)
No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed
The Coastal Buzz
SOUTHPORT
Jackie Knott, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4; Lunch daily at 11:30am
1513 N. Howe St., Ste. 1
Southport, NC 28461
910-754-7109
Much fun was had at the End of Summer Party. au theme was provided by Gail Damstrom.
Ashley Davis for Liberty Home Care and Hospice with Wolfgang at our “Trunk or Treat” event.
Halloween 2025 at Southport Senior Center
Fall Cra+ Fair 2025
SOUTHPORT
Jackie Knott, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4; Lunch daily at 11:30 a.m.
1513 N. Howe St., Ste. 1
Southport, NC 28461
910-754-7109
Thank you to the many providers that came out to educate and provide much-needed informa/on to our senior community during the Fall Health Fair. Special men/on to Galloway-Sands for the opportunity to schedule flu shots during the fair.
Fall Gree/ngs to the Homebound were made possible by our friends at St. James and our Southport Senior Center Card Making Class. Southport Women’s Club also provided treats for our senior’s furry companions.
Big Shout Out to ...
Janet Aliff, Brunswick Safety ID Program
Ann Banks, Digital Navigators
Bri ney Craven, Well Care Health
Mia Dwertman, Lower Cape Fear Life Care
Krista Kisler, Caring Senior Service
Brian Neubert, Coastal Companion Care
Brion Smith, SECU
Grace Wilson, Home Instead
Blue Tulips entertained our seniors and John LaTour organized the fes/vi/es.
SOUTHPORT
Jackie Knott, Program Manager
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4; Lunch daily at 11:30 a.m.
Cooking with John Thurs, Nov 20th and Dec 18th @ 11:00 am
Brunswick Safety ID Program Thurs, Dec 4th @ 11:00 am
Holiday Party Wed, Dec 17th @ 12:30 pm
Piano Concert Wed, Dec 10th @ 12:15 pm
Blood Drive
Mon, Feb 9th @ 9:00-12:00pm
Valen!ne’s Day Advocacy Week February 9th - 13th, 2026
AARP Tax Prep
1513 N. Howe St., Ste. 1
Southport, NC 28461
910-754-7109
CENTER CLOSED
Tues, Feb 10 - Thur, April 9th, 2026
Appt Contact Info TBD
Monday, Dec 22 - 2nd Christmas Holiday Monday, Jan 19th - Mar!n Luther King
The Coastal Buzz
Remember to support our center during the upcoming campaign!
SUPPLY
Grace Helms, Program Manager
Hours: Mon. through Thurs., 8 to 4:30; Fri. 8 to 2
Monday
Tuesday
9:15 Yoga
10:30 Fit&Strong
11:30 Lunch
12:00 QuiltTogether
9:00 Geri-Fit
9:30 CrochetingClub
10:00 Geri-Fit
10:00SifuSutzerTaiChi
10:00ModelRailroad/Men’sShed
9:30 PilatesZ
11:00SoulLineDancing&Aerobics
11:30 Lunch
Thursday friday
9:00 Geri-Fit
10:00RugHooking
10:00Geri-Fit
9:30 ChairYoga
10:30 ActiveStretch 11:30 Lunch
101 Stone Chimney Road
Supply, NC 28462 910-754-7604
12:30 BibleStudy 12:30 TaiChiPractice
11:00 Body/Core/StrengthZ
11:30 Lunch
12:30 SewingTogether
12:30 AfterLunchGames
12:30TaiChi forFallPrevention& Arthritis (9/3/25—12/17/25)NewStart:January 2025
10:00ModelRailroad/Men’sShed 11:00ZumbaGold 11:30Lunch
DailyDrop-InActivities:Rummikub,Sequence,CoffeewithFriends, Library&ExerciseRoom
No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated;
SUPPLY
Grace Helms, Program Manager Hours: Mon. through Thurs., 8 to 4:30; Fri. 8 to 2
December
2 TUESDAY:HolidayMovieDayWithHot Chocolate!12:30PM
THURSDAY:IrisPaperFoldingClass 10:00AM$
MONDAY:CardMakingGroup1:00PM
FRIDAY:FeastDownEastMobileFarmers Market9:30AM-11:30AM
MONDAY:WatercolorPaintingClass-WithAmy 10:00AM$R
JingleBellJubilee!CenterAtSupply HolidayPartyWithHomeInstead WearYourHolidaySweaters!
CaregiversSupportGroup 10:00AM-11:00AM
January
WEDNESDAY:TheBloodConnection-Blood Drive10:00-1:00PM
BirthdayCelebrationWithThe C-BreezeBand10:30AM
February
SUPPLY
Grace Helms, Program Manager
Hours: Mon. through Thurs., 8 to 4:30; Fri. 8 to 2
JINGLE BELL JUBILEE
Join Us for the Jingle Bell Jubilee!
Tuesday, December 16th
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Supply Center.
Enjoy fes ve treats, décor, photos with Santa & the Grinch, and an Ugly Sweater Contest!
We extend our sincere apprecia on to our outstanding volunteers. Your dedica on truly brightens the season.
101 Stone Chimney Road Supply, NC 28462 910-754-7604
Wishing you a joyful Holiday Season and a Happy New Year from the Supply Center!
Give today and help support Meals on Wheels, senior programs, and healthy living initiatives. Together, we make a difference for seniors in our community.
Grace Helms, Program Manager
Hours: Mon. through Thurs., 8 to 4:30; Fri. 8 to 2
101 Stone Chimney Road Supply, NC 28462 910-754-7604
The Supply Center proudly presents a lovely High Tea Party February 25th from 10AM to 12PM featuring elegant treats, warm tea, and delightful company! $R
Sweetheart Party — You're Invited! Join us on Thursday, February 12, from 10 AM to noon!
Family Caregiver Support Program: Respite & Handyman Services
ByJenniferSherman,Ph.D. BSRIChiefComplianceOfficer
Caring for an older loved one can be physically and emotionally demanding. To help, the Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) offers funding for respite services and handyman/ yardwork services, designed to support both caregivers and the care recipients.
A Break for Caregivers
Respite services provide caregivers with essential time to rest and recharge. These services include hiring a sitter to temporarily take over caregiving tasks, which allows caregivers to attend to their own health and wellbeing while ensuring their loved one continues to receive care.
Yardwork Services: Enhancing Safety
FCSP also provides funding for
minor home modifications that improve the safety and accessibility of the home and its surrounding environment. This can include removing sheds or other structures, caulking windows, repairing flooring, and addressing other safety concerns that could pose a risk if not fixed.
Eligibility
The Family Caregiver Support Program is available to adult family members or other informal caregivers, aged 18 and older, who provide care to individuals aged
60 and older. To qualify for these services, the care recipient must meet the definition of “frail.” This term refers to individuals who are functionally impaired and unable to perform at least two activities of daily living (such as bathing, dressing, or eating) without substantial human assistance, or those who, due to cognitive or mental impairments, require substantial supervision to prevent serious health or safety hazards.
FCSP is the payor of last resort, so other resources must be exhausted first. The program is flexible to meet the specific needs of caregivers and their loved ones.
How to Apply
For more information or to inquire about services and eligibility, contact FCSP at 910-754-2300, Option 1. The team is available to assist caregivers in accessing the support they need.
MEDICATION ACCESS PROGRAM SAVES $$$$
Are you uninsured, underinsured, or insured but facing financial hardship? More than 300 programs offer medications at low or no cost, shipped to your home or physician’s office.
There are local foundations and local organizations that can help. There are discounted programs such as pharmacy discounts, websites, wholesale companies, and more!
Call Medication Access Specialist Marilou Smith at 910-754-6559 to learn more.
BRUNSWICK SENIOR RESOURCES, INC.
AGING RESOURCES PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES NEED ASSISTANCE?
Contact an Aging Resource Specialist closest to you:
Calabash Center
Victoria Hine, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-6224 | vhine@bsrinc.org
Leland Center
Sandy Porcaro, MA, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-3658 | sporcaro@bsrinc.org
Shallotte Center
Laura Collins, BSW, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-4468 | lcollins@bsrinc.org
Southport Center
Tikila Morgan, BSW, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-8450 | tmorgan@bsrinc.org
Supply Center
Kenneth Chisolm, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-8450 | kchisolm@bsrinc.org
Medication Assistance Program
Marilou Smith | Leland Center (910) 754-6559 | msmith@bsrinc.org
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Award-Winning Care That Feels Like Home
