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Neighbors of

Cover photo by G. Frank Hart Winning th Warmth

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ACCOUNTING

Accounting Tax Consulting

Julia K. Eskander CPA PC 910) 399-5713

jkcpa@eskandertax.com www.eskandertax.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Live Life Optimized Call Us (910) 769-0104

biosymmetrywilmington.com 509 Olde Waterford Way #302 Leland, NC 28451

Dr. Chris Sepich, MD 833.694.2762 www.yourhcpoa.com

PUBLICATION TEAM

Publisher: Debby Daigle

Content Coordinator: Doreen Sargente

Designer: Jong Vang

Contributing Photographer: G. Frank Hart Photography

ADVERTISING

Contact: Debby Daigle

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HelloFriendsandNeighbors!

August… Can It Get Any Hotter?

August has always been known as one of the hottest months of the year, although I’m not sure how it could possibly get any hotter than it already has!

For those of us with college or school-age kids, August also brings mixed emotions. After three wonderful months of having my daughter, Izzi, home from Wake Forest, it’s time to pack the car once again and send her back to campus. While I’m excited to see her continue chasing her dreams, I’ll certainly miss having her around the house. If you’re sending children or grandchildren back to school this month, I know you can relate.

Speaking of learning, did anyone happen to read The Atlantic’s August cover story, “The Age of Reading Is Over?” The author argues that we’re living in a “postliterate world,” where fewer adults are reading books and even questions whether civilization can thrive without readers.

I have to admit—I don’t buy it.

Email: ddaigle@bestversionmedia.com

Phone: (910) 443-3199

FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS:

Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month. Email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: dsargente@bestversionmedia.com

NEIGHBORHOOD SUBMISSION INFORMATION:

Are you on the communication committee for your neighborhood? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to your neighbors. Email dsargente@bestversionmedia.com

Content

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artiﬁcial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

In fact, I think the headline is meant to stir the pot more than reﬂect reality. After all, August 9 is National Book Lovers Day, and right here in Leland we have no shortage of avid readers. Whether you’re part of a neighborhood book club, enjoy relaxing with a good novel on the porch, or simply appreciate discovering something new, reading continues to bring people together. That certainly doesn’t sound like a post-literate world to me.

What do you think?

This month’s feature story shines a spotlight on one of our area’s favorite golf professionals, Nicole Weller. Here is an excerpt. In the world of professional golf, there are those who play the game, those who teach the mechanics, and then there are the rare few who truly embody the spirit of the sport. Lucky for us, one of those remarkable professionals calls Leland home.

As a Class A member of both the LPGA and the PGA—an elite distinction earned by only a select few professionals nationwide—Nicole doesn’t simply teach golf; she inspires others through her passion, knowledge, and love of the game. Be sure to read her story on page 8

If you know me, you also know I never pass up a good glass of bourbon. So when I came across two recipes featuring bourbon as a key ingredient, I couldn’t resist giving them a try. They’re perfect for your next cookout and just might impress your bourbon-loving friends. You’ll ﬁnd both recipes on page 12

I’d also like to extend a warm welcome to our newest sponsor, Creative Outdoor Solutions. Owner and founder Will Hardison specializes in storm shutters and shade systems designed to withstand the sun, heat, and everything else that comes with coastal living. If you’re looking for ways to make your outdoor spaces more comfortable while protecting your home, be sure to read more about Creative Outdoor Solutions on page 6

As always, thank you for reading Neighbors of Leland and for supporting the local businesses that help make this publication possible. I hope you’ll continue to share your story ideas, community happenings, and suggestions for future articles. This magazine is about celebrating the people, places, and businesses that make Magnolia Greens, Waterford, Compass Pointe, and the greater Leland area such wonderful places to call home.

Enjoy the last days of summer—and try to stay cool!

Doreen Sargente Content Coordinator

Ciao!

Debby Daigle Publisher

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AUGUSTCALENDAROFEVENTSOFEVENTS

Wednesday, August 5

POPLAR GROVE OPEN AIR MARKET

@ Historic Poplar Grove Plantation

A long-running, family-friendly farmers’ market beneath ancient oak trees featuring regional produce, crafts, and artworks.

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Cost: Free admission (items available for purchase)

Thursday–Sunday, August 6–23

SAME TIME, NEXT YEAR

@ Brunswick Little Theatre

A classic, heartwarming comedy tracking a two-person annual affair over 25 years, charting their personal growth and changing cultural times.

Time: Check venue details for matinee and evening curtain times

Cost: Ticketed; prices vary by performance

Friday, August 7

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS

@ Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

A classic vocal group concert delivering harmony-driven country and gospel hits perfect for multi-generational family outings.

Time: 7:30 PM

Cost: Ticketed; prices vary by seating

Monday, August 10 – Monday, September 14, 2026

JUDY LEWIS ART EXHIBIT

@Sweet Nectar Florist 324 Village Road, Unit Q “Imagination and Inspiration”

Watercolor and Pastel Paintings

Reception is on Wednesday, August 19 from 5PM to 7PM.

Cost: Free

Thursday–Sunday, August 13–23

WEST SIDE STORY

@ Thalian Hall

The classic, soaring musical retelling of Romeo and Juliet pulses with iconic dance numbers and Bernstein’s powerful score to close out the summer theatre season.

Time: Evening performances at 7:30 PM; Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM

Cost: Ticketed; prices vary

Wednesday, August 19

BAD COMPANY LEGACY CONCERT

@ Leland Cultural Arts Center

A lively rock performance tribute keeping summer energy high right in the heart of Leland.

Time: 7:30 PM

Cost: $116

Thursday, August 20

SLIGHTLY STOOPID - ROAD TRIPPIN

SUMMER TOUR

@ Live Oak Bank Pavilion

An outdoor, riverfront evening concert packed with reggae-rock rhythms appropriate for music-loving families. Time: Evening; check venue gates

Cost: Ticketed; prices vary by section

Friday–Saturday, August 21–22

MADDY KELLY LIVE

@ Dead Crow Comedy Room

An evening of engaging and witty stand-up comedy featuring fresh, quick-tongued observations from a rising star.

Time: Shows at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM

Cost: Ticketed; general admission starting at $47

Saturday, August 22

JORDAN DAVIS CONCERT

@ Live Oak Bank Pavilion

A prominent country artist brings a hit-filled, high-energy outdoor performance to the Wilmington riverfront. Time: Evening; check venue gates

Cost: Ticketed; prices vary by section

Wednesday, August 26

SOUTHPORT SUMMER MARKET

@ Southport Waterfront Park

The season finale of the waterfront market bringing local growers, crafters, and bakers right alongside the scenic Cape Fear River vistas.

Time: Morning to midday hours

Cost: Free admission

Saturday, August 29

FORTUNE FEIMSTER LIVE

@ Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

A comedy performance filled with relatable, good-natured storytelling that delivers plenty of laughs.

Time: Evening; check official ticketing details

Cost: Ticketed; prices vary

Saturday–Monday, September 5–7

LABOR DAY WEEKEND AND COOKOUT

@ Bald Head Island

A festive holiday weekend celebration filled with a community cookout, family games, beachy fare, and unique island-wide attractions.

Time: All weekend long

Cost: Event entry is free; food and ferry transport ticketed separately

AUGUST GOLF OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN – LPGA AMATEUR GOLF ASSOCIATION CAPE FEAR/ WILMINGTON NC CHAPTER

SATURDAY, August 1, 8:30AM, $45, Vineyard Golf at White Lake, Elizabethtown

SATURDAY, August 15, 9AM, $46, Oyster Bay Golf Links, Sunset Beach

SATURDAY, August 29, 8:35AM, $45, Brunswick Plantation, Calabash

Every Thursday, 11:30AM (18 holes) and 4:30PM (9 holes – dining afterwards), Beau Rivage Golf, Carolina Beach

Mondays (2nd and 4th of the month) 10AM: 9 holes ($20) or 18 holes ($39), Ironclad Golf, Hampstead

Non-members may golf twice before they decide if membership is right for them.

Visit: lpgaamateurswilmingtonnc.com for details and to register. For questions, email lpgaamateurswilmingtonnc@yahoo.com

Rediscover You with Bioiden cal Hormone Therapy

BY DEB READ

At Biosymmetry, serving Leland, NC, we specialize in Bioidentical Hormone Therapy for Women—a personalized approach to restoring natural hormone balance and enhancing overall well-being. Hormonal changes due to aging, menopause, or stress can cause symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, and low libido. Our medically supervised treatments use bioidentical hormones, which are molecularly identical to those naturally produced by your body, to safely relieve symptoms and help you feel like yourself again.

Hormone Therapy Can Be a Gamechanger After Menopause

Supports Muscle Mass & Strength

Healthy hormone levels can help maintain lean muscle mass and support an active lifestyle as we age.

Protects Bone Health

Estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Improves Vaginal & Urinary Health

Hormone therapy can help reduce vaginal dryness, discomfort with intimacy, urinary urgency, and recurrent urinary tract infections.

Menopause is a natural transition, but that doesn’t mean women have to simply “live with” the symptoms. For many women, hormone therapy can provide signiﬁcant beneﬁts that improve quality of life and support long-term health.

What are the Benefits of Hormone Therapy After Menopause?

Better Sleep

Hormone therapy may help reduce night sweats and improve sleep quality, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and energized.

Improved Mood & Mental Clarity

Many women report less irritability, anxiety, brain fog, and mood swings when hormone levels are optimized.

Relief from

Hot

Flashes & Night Sweats

One of the most e ective treatments available for reducing vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause.

May Support Cognitive Function

Many women notice improvements in focus, memory, and overall cognitive performance when hormonal imbalances are addressed.

Cardiovascular Benefits

For appropriate candidates who start therapy near menopause, hormone therapy may o er cardiovascular beneﬁts when individualized and closely monitored.

Feel Like Yourself Again

Perhaps the greatest beneﬁt is simply feeling more like you—having the energy, vitality, conﬁdence, and motivation to fully enjoy life.

Every woman is di erent, and hormone therapy isn’t onesize-ﬁts-all. A comprehensive evaluation at Biosymmetry Leland can help determine whether it’s right for you and which approach best ﬁts your health goals.

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Retractable Awnings & Motorized Screens

BY WILL HARDISON, PRESIDENT

It’s August in Leland, and your back porch has been a ghost town since May. The patio turns into a griddle by 10 a.m., shoe soles feel tacky, and it’s just ﬂat-out hot. The outdoor space you pictured when buying the home sits empty most of the year.

You’re not imagining it. It’s your reality. North Carolina summers are brutal on outdoor living, and a bare patio or porch can’t compete with the heat. Or can it?

That’s where Creative Outdoor Solutions comes in, a locally owned shade and storm protection company serving Leland. We help homeowners take back their outdoor spaces with retractable awnings and motorized screens built for this climate. Several of your neighbors have already taken advantage of our shade!

Retractable awnings are the most economical shade option for patios and decks. No more chasing down umbrellas. Our units provide up to 20 ft x 12 ft of Sunbrella shade, feel 20 degrees cooler underneath, and retract with the touch of a button. Starting at $4,750, every awning includes a motor and remote, LED lights, wind sensor, adjustable pitch, and a 10-year warranty.

Motorized shade screens block every element, making your covered porch usable all year. At the touch of a button, they enclose your porch, sunroom, or lanai, cutting sun, bugs, pollen, wind, and rain. Our storm screens are hurricane-certiﬁed to 156+ mph. Most homeowners don’t realize screens keep a space cool in summer and trap heat in winter; some of our customers sip co ee on their porch in December.

Scan the QR code or visit thecosnc.com/Leland to watch and learn more:

Booking a complimentary consultation is simple: Call or text 910-212-6306. Our founder, Will Hardison, will personally come to your home.

REAL ESTATE STATISTICS - JUNE 2026

BestVersionMediadoesnotguaranteetheaccuracyofthestatisticaldataonthispage.Thedatadoesnotrepresentthelistingsofanyoneagentoragencybutrepresentstheactivityoftherealestate communityinthearea.Anyrealestateagent’sadappearinginthemagazineisseparatefromthestatisticaldataprovidedwhichisinnowayapartoftheiradvertisement.

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FULL CIRCLE:

The Gracious Leadership of Nicole Weller

By Doreen Sargente

Frank Hart and Nicole Weller

In the world of professional golf, there are those who play the game, those who teach the mechanics, and then there are the rare few who curate the spirit of the sport. Lucky for us, one of those rare spirits lives right here in Leland.

When Nicole & Ty Weller relocated to the area in the spring of 2022, she brought with her a resume that stands among the most decorated in modern golf instruction. As a Class A member of both the LPGA and the PGA—an elite dual distinction held by a select few professionals nationwide—she doesn’t just teach the game; she lives it with a lifelong passion.

Today, that dedication has culminated in a historic milestone. The LPGA Professionals have o cially named Nicole as the 2026 Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award recipient. The prestigious honor, established in 2007, recognizes an LPGA Professional who exempliﬁes leadership, passion, generosity, and approachability—values that deﬁne the legacy of Nancy Lopez, a World Golf Hall of Fame member. For Nicole, receiving this award is the ultimate full-circle moment, bridging a childhood dream with a thirtyyear career spent transforming the sport.

Long before she was a top-ranked instructor at Compass Pointe Golf Club, Nicole was a young girl growing up in Lakeville, Massachusetts. Her introduction to the game was deeply tied to her family. Her parents had immigrated to the United States from Switzerland and Germany to chase the American Dream—her father arriving with just $25 in his pocket and two suitcases, and her mother arriving via ship, a moment captured in

a cherished family photograph. German was Nicole’s native language until the age of three.

Her father, Max, introduced her to golf, and together they volunteered as “Quiet Please” marshals at the Boston Five Classic. It was on those fairways that a young Nicole watched Nancy Lopez play up close, mesmerized not just by her talent, but by the signature warmth that made everyone feel included.

“Being recognized with this honor is one of the most precious moments of my career,” Nicole says.

“As a young golfer, I followed Nancy’s career... I was inspired by her journey into golf, as both of our fathers played a signiﬁcant role in introducing us to the game. I strive to pay that forward by creating meaningful learning experiences inspired by her gracious leadership and presence.”

Photos provided by G.

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That early inspiration fueled an extraordinary path.

Nicole was the salutatorian of Coyle & Cassidy High School and co-captain of the boys’ varsity golf team. She later earned a golf scholarship to Wake Forest University, followed by a Master’s degree in Sport Psychology from the University of Tennessee. It is this background in psychology that makes Nicole’s teaching methodology so unique and sought-after. She understands that the hardest part of golf isn’t the physical follow-through—it is the mental landscape.

“I host really fun classes that help golfers with focus, the mental game, and emotional management,” Nicole explains. “I get to put that degree to good use.”

Her career blossomed during a ten-year tenure in Knoxville, Tennessee, where she entered the PGA and LPGA programs at Cherokee Country Club and transitioned into a teaching role at Fairways & Greens Golf Facility. It was there that she founded a 501(c)(3) site for LPGA*USGA Girls Golf, scaling the program from 25 to nearly 80 girls alongside a volunteer group that became like family. She then spent 15 years as the Head Teaching Professional at The Landings Club on Skidaway Island in Savannah, Georgia, followed by several years with the Resort Academy teaching team in Pinehurst, before moving to the North Carolina coast.

Throughout this journey, Nicole developed a reputation for revolutionary youth development. In 2016, she helped launch The Little Golf T.R.A.I.N., an innovative certiﬁcation program designed to introduce children ages 2 to 5 to golf through early childhood development principles.

“Imagine how you’d want your toddler’s kindergarten classroom to look for fun, educational purposes… deﬁnitely nothing like a college classroom—too boring for the little ones,” Nicole says. “They need movement, color, bursts of activities, and kid-style wording! We don’t keep our eye on the ball, we ‘Tick-Tock-Swing the Clock’ for putting or ‘One-Two-Show-My-Shoe’ for big hits!”

A proliﬁc writer, she authored Let’s Play Golf, Big Thoughts from Little Golfers, Match Play Golf Flashcards, and co-authored the LPGA Girls Golf Handbook to make the sport accessible and engaging for families.

When the opportunity arose to join the team at Compass Pointe Golf Club under Renaissance Golf director Tad Sanders, the move to Leland felt entirely meant to be. Because Nicole was working demanding seven-day weeks in early 2022, her husband, Ty—who is also a PGA Professional—took on the task of house hunting.

When Ty found their current home, the timing and alignment were ﬂawless. “We think the house waited for us,” Nicole laughs. “Amazingly, it was on the market a

few months during the real estate craze... Coincidentally, there was even a box labeled ‘Nicole’s Trophies’ in the outgoing seller’s boxes that would ironically be replaced with mine labeled the same way!”

In her rare moments of free time, Nicole fully embraces the coastal lifestyle. She enjoys exploring Southport, walking the nature trails in our area, and relaxing by the pool. A true high-achiever, even her downtime activities reﬂect her focused nature; she ﬁnds a Zen-like calm in weeding and home improvement. “For some reason, I love painting baseboards, chair rail, trim, and crown molding—those are all soothing projects to me,” she shares.

/ PGA INSTRUCTOR

At home, she is kept company by Jada, a beautiful rescue cat with stunning green eyes who is famous for her conversational skills and her “goalie” instincts, blocking thrown objects with the precision of a soccer pro.

By receiving the Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award, Nicole joins an elite echelon of women who have shaped the future of the sport, including past recipients like Suzy Whaley and Karen PalaciosJansen. It is far from her ﬁrst taste of national recognition; in 2013, she made history as the only individual to receive both the PGA and LPGA National Junior Golf Leader Awards in the same year She has also been named an LPGA Top 50 Instructor multiple times and recognized by Golf Digest as one of the Best Teachers in North Carolina.

Whether she is presenting at national youth summits, mentoring fellow instructors, or teaching a local resident on the local greens, Nicole lives out her website’s tagline every single day: “Educating Golfers, Entertaining People, and Enhancing Lives.”

From a young girl holding a “Quiet Please” sign to a master of the mental game, Nicole Weller has proven that when you teach with warmth and lead with grace, you don’t just instruct players, you change the heart of the game.

MASONRY and concrete SERVICES

Aztec Masonry installs manufactured stone and brick veneer, as well as natural stone, stucco, tabby, parging, and pavers. We offer a full range of design materials to meet any architectural project.

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Short and Sweet Swing Fixes: Topped Shots and Thin Shots

BY NICOLE WELLER

One of the most fun aspects of hitting a golf ball is that crisp, solid sound and feel when the ball ﬁnds the absolute center of the club face during impact… there’s nothing like it! A friend and colleague of mine who played successfully on Tour for a long time said players expect maybe 3-5 great shots during a round as planned, the rest are mostly acceptable and get the job done. She noted that Tour players miss the ball much better than most golfers though, so their missed shots aren’t as bad. Good misses are key and as long as poor misses are playable and can be advanced, golfers can still score.

What’s happening? Topped shots occur when the bottom of the club head contacts only the top of the golf ball and may hop forward a few feet or some yards forward, it’s not a solid strike at all. Thin shots occur when the bottom of the club head contacts the equator or middle of the ball and ﬂies out further but doesn’t gain much altitude although it may run a long way, which is great if nothing is in the way and it can roll on its merry way. It’s not pretty but it can work. My ﬁrst hole-inone at age 14 with my Dad during a practice round at Scituate C.C. in Massachusetts on hole 2 never made it o the ground, it was a beautiful, thin shot that rolled all the way up the hill and into the hole. The scorecard said 1, it didn’t say how and I’m often happy that we aren’t judged with quality scores like in the Olympics. Can you imagine also getting a rating for each shot like an 8.5 or 9.2? You don’t need a perfect 9.9 or 10 to play good golf, they just need to move towards the hole

in most cases. It’s deﬁnitely more fun and there are times we have to be solid to gain trajectory over obstacles and for soft landings.

Possible Causes:

1. The ball is positioned too far forward in the stance nearer the lead foot where the swing arc is beginning to ascend up. Shorter irons tend to be played best near the middle of the stance, longer irons / hybrids / fairway woods mid-forward under the lead eye or ear closer to the target and driver inside the lead foot.

2.The arms (levers) begin extended allowing the club head to reach the ground at set-up. Unfortunately for a variety of reasons they don’t return back to that low point during impact. The arms and club make a Y at set-up and should return as such but topped or thin shots have the arms look more like a letter W with the arms folded up, lifting the club o the ground during the most important moment, impact.

3.The body’s posture changes taller during the swing. Some may not even begin bent forward enough from the hips at the start and then others may also change posture (spine angle) during the swing. It’s not normal for a body to bend forward and then rotate while in a side bent posture. While many are told they picked up their head, it’s usually not that but the entire spine that the head is connected to that has elevated for whatever reason.

To ﬁnd out which of these causes it might be, contact your local PGA or LPGA teaching professional to ﬁgure out how to hit the ball more solidly!

Nicole Weller instructs local area golfers at Compass Pointe Golf Club in Leland. For more information on Nicole and her tips / videos, visit www.nicoleweller.com.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Growth

BY DEBBY DAIGLE

One of the things I enjoy most about what I do is getting a ﬁrst look at new businesses coming to our community. Last month, I had the opportunity to meet with Siara Denicola, O ce Manager, and Morgan Bates, Aesthetician, at the new Beach Aesthetics location in Leland.

My ﬁrst impression? Wow.

The new o ce is absolutely gorgeous. From the moment you walk through the door, it’s clear that every detail was thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming, upscale experience for their clients.

Beach Aesthetics has built an outstanding reputation in Wilmington for exceptional patient care, advanced aesthetic treatments, and natural-looking results. Now they’re bringing that same expertise and commitment to excellence to Brunswick County with their second location.

As Leland continues to grow, it’s exciting to see businesses like Beach Aesthetics investing in our community and providing residents with high-quality services close to home. Their team believes Leland deserves a boutique medical spa experience focused on personalized care, integrity, and outstanding results.

• Serves all type of businesses, individuals, and non-proﬁt organizations

• Assist with ﬁling past year tax returns and clean-up messy books

• Notary of the public on sta .

The new o ce is scheduled to open this spring and is already accepting new patients. To celebrate their arrival, Beach Aesthetics is launching “The Founding Fifty” campaign. The ﬁrst 50 residents from Leland and Brunswick County to schedule an appointment will receive exclusive founder pricing.

I left my visit impressed not only by the beautiful new facility, but also by the enthusiasm and professionalism of the team. We look forward to welcoming Beach Aesthetics to the community and watching them become a valued part of the Leland business landscape.

For more information or to learn about Beach Aesthetics contact their Leland o ce.

HONORING OUR

VETERANS

BY GERALD DECKER

Presented by VFW Post 12196, its Auxiliary, & the Town of Belville

Join us in establishing a permanent tradition in North Brunswick County to honor our growing veteran community.

WHEN & WHERE

Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM (Opening) – 3:00 PM (Closing)

Location: Belville Riverwalk Park

GET INVOLVED: CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS

We are actively seeking vendors, scouts, JROTC, ﬁre, police, EMS, and active-duty military units.

Free Registration for scouts, ﬁrst responders, and military units!

Vendor Booth Spaces

(Tax-deductible to cover event costs)

10x10 Space: $30 (No electricity) / $50 (With electricity)

12x12 Space: $40 (No electricity) / $60 (With electricity)

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

All sponsors receive priority access to the Veterans Creative Arts Program and other yearly VFW events.

Event

Promoted in all marketing/PR + 1-year VFW website sponsorship

Program Sponsor $250 Promoted in all marketing and press releases

Veteran Sponsor

$100 Listed directly in the event program

CONTACT & REGISTER

All proceeds directly support local veterans through VFW Post 12196 programs.

Contact: Commander Gerald Decker

Phone: 910-408-1934

Website: vfwpost12196.org

Brown Sugar and Bourbon

BY DEBBY DAIGLE

BOURBON BAKED BEANS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb. dried white beans

• 2 whole cloves

• 1 sweet onion, cut into-inch-thick slices

• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 smoked ham hock

• 1 cup bourbon

• ¾ cup ketchup

• ½ cup dark brown sugar

• ¼ cup molasses

• ¼ cup whole-grain mustard

• ¼ cup brewed espresso or strong co ee

• 3 tbsp. A1 sauce

• 2 tbsp. cider vinegar

• 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 tsp. freshly

PREPARATION

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F.

2. Rinse and pick beans. Place in a Dutch oven and add water to cover them by 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat and then reduce to a simmer, stirring a time or two, until the beans are ﬁrm-tender, about 35 minutes. Drain, reserving 3 cups of the starchy cooking liquid.

3. Place the onion slices, garlic, bay leaves, cloves, and ham hock in the bottom of the Dutch oven. Top with the drained beans.

4. Whisk together 2 cups of the reserved cooking liquid with the bourbon, ketchup,brown sugar, molasses, mustard, co ee, A1 sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour the liquid over the beans, cover

with the lid, and transfer the Dutch oven to the preheated oven.

5. Bake 4 hours.

6. Remove the lid and carefully stir the beans. Add a bit of the remaining cooking liquid as needed so there’s enough to come up just to the surface of the beans.

7. Cover the beans and cook for 30 minutes, checking and stirring every 15 minutes and adding more cooking liquid as needed.

8. Uncover the pot, stir, and cook 15 minutes more, until the beans are tender and the liquid is thick and clings to the beans. Let stand 15 minutes.

10. Remove the ham hock and discard.

“IhavetheopportunitytoworkwithCatherine. Sheisveryknowledgeableandprofessional. Hercommunicationskillsareonpoint. Iwouldhighlyrecommendhertodoproperty managementwhenyouhaveaneed. Iguaranteeyouwillhaveapositiveexperience.”

-EdwardBaron.

PREPARATION

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease an 8-x-8inch (2-qt.) baking dish with butter.

Peach Filling

• 2lb. ripe peaches, washed

• Juice of 1 lemon

• ⅓ cup turbinado sugar

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp. cornstarch

• 3 tbsp. bourbon

Brown Butter Crisp Topping

• 8 tbsp. butter

• ¾ cup all-purpose ﬂour

• ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats

• ⅓ cup turbinado sugar (see note)

• 1 tsp. lemon zest

• ¼ tsp. kosher salt

• ½ tsp. ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg

• Fine sea salt, vanilla ice cream FOR SERVING

2. Prepare the ﬁlling: Slice each peach into 8 wedges. Toss the peaches with the lemon juice, sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and bourbon to coat.

3. Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Set aside.

4. Prepare the topping: Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium-low and cook until golden brown and fragrant (watch closely as it can easily burn), 5 to 7 minutes.

5. Remove from the heat and set aside. Blend ﬂour, oats, sugar, lemon zest, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg

in a bowl. Drizzle brown butter over dry ingredients, tossing to incorporate and create a crumbly mixture. Spread topping over peach ﬁlling.

6. Place the baking dish on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes or until the ﬁlling is bubbly and caramelized at the edges and the topping is golden brown and crisp. Carefully remove from the oven and let cool 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Salt lightly with sea salt. Serve in bowls topped with scoops of vanilla ice cream