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Contact: Debby Daigle
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Email: ddaigle@bestversionmedia.com
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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.
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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.
As we turn the calendar to June, it feels like summer is nally stepping onto the stage. If summer were a play, June would certainly be its opening act. The days grow longer, the evenings slower, and our neighborhoods seem to come alive in a whole new way.
Lately, when I’ve asked neighbors how they feel about summer arriving, the answers usually fall into one of two categories—hope or dread! Hope for beach days, backyard gatherings, vacations, and sunshine… and perhaps a little dread over the heat, humidity, and hurricane forecasts that seem to arrive right alongside the season. But no matter where you fall, there’s something undeniably special about this time of year in coastal North Carolina.
June also brings us the summer solstice—the longest day of the year and a beautiful reminder to slow down and appreciate the abundance of light around us. Whetheryou’re enjoying an earlymorningwalk, orgatheringwith friends and family, summer has a way of reminding us to savor the simple moments.
Speaking of family and connection, our feature story this month is one you won’t want to miss. Cheers to the Ruggieros highlights a family whose lives have been shaped by travel, service, community, and adventure. Whether they’re taking over a taproom, coaching basketball, or hosting neighbors around the table, Donna and Bruce Ruggiero embrace life with energy, generosity, and heart. Be sure to read their inspiring story on page 12.
I’d also like to extend a warm welcome to a new sponsor joining the Brunswick Forest Living family this month. Please help us welcome:
• Paula Clarity of Clarity Law Firm, an estate planning rm dedicated to helping families prepare for the future.
We are grateful for the businesses that continue to invest in and support our local communities.
And of course, June also means Father’s Day. To all the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, mentors, and father gures who guide, support, encourage, and love so deeply—thank you. We hope you enjoy a day lled with appreciation, laughter, and time spent with those who matter most.
Wishing you a joyful start to summer and many bright days ahead.
By Doreen Sargente | Photos provided by Monica Cox
If you’ve spent any time near the saltwater pool at Inspire lately, you’ve likely encountered a whirlwind of energy named Monica Cox. With a quick wit and a heart that seems to have no maximum capacity, Monica hasn't just moved into Inspire; she’s become its unofficial heartbeat.
Originally from Ohio, Monica’s journey to the coast was born from a need for healing—both physical and emotional. After years of the grueling pace from selling cars took a toll on her health, her doctors gave her a simple directive: find a warmer climate. But Monica doesn’t do anything halfway. While most people are eyeing retirement in their late 50s, Monica was eyeing a syllabus. At 57, she enrolled in Bowling Green University, and by 60, she had earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, funded by the VA.
"I graduated in June 2022 and hit the ground running," Monica recalls. That "running" included moving to the Wilmington area, living in an Airbnb for five months while working for Hospice Company in Belville, and eventually purchasing a townhome in Leland. However, it was a volunteer shift for Meals on Wheels that changed her trajectory.
When Monica first pulled into the driveway of Inspire to deliver meals to seniors, she didn’t just see a building; she saw her future. "I fell in love with it instantly," she says. By October 2025, she officially traded her townhome for the vibrant, social atmosphere of Inspire. You can often find her at the saltwater pool, which she considers her personal "blue therapy," or leading a lively group in the craft room.
Monica’s schedule is not for the faint of heart. Having lost both her second husband and her mother in 2021, Monica has channeled her grief into a profound dedication to others.
MONDAYS: Dedicated to her "Seashell Craft" classes.
of Brightmore how to turn coastal treasures into art—always free of charge.
TUESDAYS: She serves as the Post Adjutant at the American Legion Post 10 in Wilmington, working under the Commander to manage membership.
SATURDAYS: The day she returns to her roots as the Project Coordinator for Weekend Meals on Wheels Llc for Brunswick County.
For Monica, the only thing better than helping others is doing it with friends. She is currently on a mission to find at least four volunteers to help deliver meals to the elderly on Saturdays. The commitment is just one hour, but the impact is immeasurable.
Whether she’s talking about her two sons—Nicholas in Goldsboro, NC and Joseph in Lorain, Ohio—or showing off her latest shell creation, Monica’s presence at Inspire is a reminder that it’s never too late for a fresh start. "I
just love giving and helping people whenever possible," she says with a smile.
TIME COMMITMENT: Just 1 hour on Saturday's.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: One Hour for a Lifetime of Thanks!
Monica is currently looking for four dedicated volunteers to assist with Saturday meal deliveries for local seniors.
THE MISSION: Delivering hot meals and warm smiles to those in our community who need them most. Interested? Give her a call on 419677-3053 or email at mflaherty626@ gmail.com
Teresa Dean on left with Patty Miljenovic of Honor Flight with Monica
It’s truly an honor to be able to walk the hallowed ground at Augusta National and this year I had an opportunity to return to this majestic event and course and watch the masters at work. I always enjoy observing and learning and thought I’d share some fun tidbits from this year’s pilgrimage.
Based on Vision54’s concepts, the area before entering into a shot is called the Think Box (plan, decide and most importantly Commit 100%) and the area over the shot is called the Play Box (you guessed it, where the golfer actually plays the shot, no more thinking). The Play Box is typically a 3-9 second box. The players I timed took about 22 seconds on average overall from start to finish with their preshot routines which is about standard, about 10 of which were in the Play Box. My entire master’s degree thesis (that I eventually presented at conferences at the University of St. Andrews, New Orleans at AAASP and at the University of Ulster in N. Ireland) was on the timing and content of a pre-shot routine, fun stuff for me about efficiency and effectiveness.
I love going to the practice facilities to watch the players warm up (before) or practice (after). Most of the Tour players had their coaches with them for recalibration and confirmation. If the best of the Best need feedback, it’s truly a sign that golf is a tough game in constant flux. We can never ‘fix’ a swing but can certainly learn to manage it as the needle
moves a bit left or right or sits right where we want it for a while but never forever as a variable human being.
When I was watching players on the putting green, I saw 4 out of 5 players using feedback, mostly mirror drills, mirror and gate drills, gate drills, yardstick or alignment aids and tees. Practicing without feedback is like driving a car without a speedometer. At the driving range I saw 4 out of 6 players using feedback, mostly alignment rods on the ground or on plane angles and data trackers. I learned a cool swing plane drill that I’ve already used successfully with a student. One player went back to make two swings within the shafts then went up to hit a shot and then repeated. Over and over again with pace and tenacious patience. I often tell golfers to practice as much as they want to improve… practice a lot to improve a lot, a little for a little improvement and no practice for negligible improvement.
I love positioning myself about 20 yards down on the teeing ground from where the players let that drive loose, the ball sounds like a rocket taking off, one of my favorite sounds. Mine don’t sound quite like that, LOL!
I love hearing the crowds erupt in different parts of the course, the Gestalt of the event is part of our golf culture and world.
I saw a player make a 9 on hole 15 after hitting two balls onto the green that rolled back into the water, then hitting
over the green and having to chip on and two putt. The game is hard, even for the best. We usually see the best players that week on tv and don’t realize how many putts and shots are missed during a round of golf. We own it and move on. I’d like to see pace of play pick up. Having played highly competitive amateur golf, I’ve been in groups that were put on the clock due to the pace rules. We had to make our decisions within a specific timeline and I think the best players can too. Learning how to gather data in a timely manner and not get overloaded with current options will help the game move along for both professionals but also the recreational Club golfer. Many Clubs have pace of play policies in effect for 4 hour or 4 hour 15 minute rounds. Actually, the game itself takes only 2-3 minutes to move the ball (let’s say 100 shots times 2 seconds… 120 seconds), so the rest of the time is what happens or is wasted between shots. No one wants a 5-6 hour round. Gather the data efficiently and then go golf that ball! It certainly was quite an event this year and an exciting ending… I wonder if Rory McElroy might be the first player to threepeat if he can pull off another win next year? Either way, our 2026 golf season is kicked off and in full swing, Happy Golfing!
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.
Start your Christmas shopping early and support local crafters. Christmas (almost) July Craft Fair brings together 24 talented vendors with handmade gifts, decor, treats and more.
Vendors are set to be showcased on Sunday June 28th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fitness & Wellness Center, located at 2701 Brunswick Forest Parkway, Leland. Santa's workshop is full. All vendor spots have been taken for this years Craft Fair. If you have questions, call Jean Fear at 661-607-5253.
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What a wonderful weekend it was for our 2026 Health Resource Show, Home & Lifestyle Expo, and Outdoor Living Expo held May 2nd & 3rd at the Brunswick Forest Fitness & Wellness Center.
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the incredible vendors, sponsors, volunteers, entertainers, and residents who helped make these events such a success. Even though the rain poured down throughout much of Saturday, the enthusiasm from our local residents certainly did not wash away. We were thrilled with the tremendous turnout and the energy throughout the day as neighbors came together to learn more about the many businesses and
Submitted by Debby Daigle
services available right here in our community.
Sunday greeted us with beautiful sunshine and blue skies. While attendance was lighter, those who joined us came ready to engage, ask questions, and truly connect with our vendors. The conversations were meaningful, the networking was strong, and the weekend reminded us once again how valuable these community events are for bringing people together.
A special thank you goes out to William Marquardt for providing wonderful live music throughout the event weekend and helping create such a fun and welcoming
atmosphere. We also appreciate Shuckin’ Shack for serving up crowd favorites and Milly’s Ice Cream for keeping everyone cool with delicious sweet treats.
Most importantly, thank you to every business and organization that participated. Your support, professionalism, and commitment to serving our local communities are what make these events possible. We are grateful to partner with businesses that continue to invest in the people and neighborhoods of Leland and the surrounding area.
We hope you enjoy some of the highlights captured in the photos on these pages!
How The Ruggiero's Turned a Taproom Into a Community Hub
By Doreen Sargente
Photos by G. Frank Hart and The Ruggiero Family
If you’ve ever stepped into the Brunswick Beer Xchange (BBX) in Leland, you’ve likely felt the hum of energy that defines the place. At the center of it all is Donna Ruggiero, a woman who doesn’t really "do" sitting still. Along with her husband, Bruce, Donna has turned a post-retirement pivot into a community staple, but their story actually begins more than forty years ago.
Donna and Bruce Ruggiero’s story is the kind that feels like it was meant to be. They met in 1982 at Nightwork Lounge, a local Long Island bar. Donna was still in high school, and Bruce was home on leave from the Air Force. Their introduction came through a mutual friend, Roger, who invited Donna over. Bruce asked if she wanted to go to a wedding.
“Whose?” she asked. “Ours!” he replied. The next night, the bar
was decorated for an impromptu wedding ceremony, complete with Roger dressed all in black performing the ceremony, Donna’s friend Kara as maid-of-honor, and “Always and Forever” playing on the jukebox.
That playful start was the beginning of a lifelong partnership. Bruce was discharged from the Air Force in September 1982, and they’ve been together ever since, marrying in 1987.
The couple originally lived in Merrick, New York, in the home Donna grew up in, staying there to provide support to her mother after her father passed away. They moved to Brunswick Forest, North Carolina, in 2021, joining family who had relocated there during the pandemic. Their careers have been as dynamic as their personal lives. When they first started dating and for a while after marriage, both worked at the Rusty Scupper restaurant in Westbury— Bruce as head line chef and Donna wearing every other hat from cashier to hostess to bookkeeper,
while attending Nassau Community College for an associate degree in paralegal science. Donna’s ambition led her to Manhattan, where she worked at a boutique intellectual property firm and later at Kenyon and Kenyon, a renowned IP firm, before joining The Estée Lauder Companies in 1992.
Balancing work, school, and family wasn’t easy. While working full-time as a paralegal, Donna earned her bachelor’s degree in International Studies at CW Post, Long Island University. Her daughter, Jessica, was born in December 1993—just a day after Donna sat for a final exam. “My professor was very nervous,” she recalls, “he just wanted to make sure I didn’t give birth in his classroom.”
Donna’s career at Estée Lauder flourished, moving from paralegal to attorney after she completed law school at Brooklyn Law School at night, despite personal challenges including her husband’s emergency surgeries. After graduating near the
top of her class, she returned to Estée Lauder as Associate Counsel and Executive Director of intellectual property, traveling the world and working on cases she had only dreamed of handling.
Retirement brought a new chapter. The Ruggieros were inspired to move south after visiting family who had relocated to Brunswick Forest during COVID. By the end of 2021, they were living in an apartment while their home was being built. Donna, a woman with endless energy, knew she didn’t want to sit still. The opportunity came unexpectedly—Brunswick Beer Xchange, a craft beer taproom and bottle shop near their apartment, was for sale. “I told my husband I wanted to buy the business. He thought I was out of my mind!”
Donna officially took over BBX on November 1, 2023. The taproom features 40 taps, 12 coolers of craft beer from local, national and international breweries, wine, cider, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Food trucks rotate weekly, keeping things lively. But what sets BBX apart is Donna’s vision of making it a hub for charitable events. From autism fundraisers and breast cancer support initiatives to pet adoption drives and food pantry cookoffs, BBX combines craft beer with giving back.
“We’ve made contributions to organizations including Toys for Tots, Honor Flight of North Carolina, Make-AWish Foundation, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, as well as local veterans groups,” Donna says. She’s passionate about supporting local businesses and artists, from murals to furniture and popcorn. Beyond charity, BBX hosts weekly poker games, trivia nights, dart leagues, potluck dinners, art classes, comedy nights, music events, and more—a full calendar that keeps the community engaged.
Supporting this vibrant hub is a dedicated team led by manager Catherine Corrigan, a certified Cicerone, along with bartenders and volunteers. Donna credits her “village” of friends, family, and patrons for the success of BBX.
Sports have also been a significant part of their lives. Donna coached basketball for over 13 years, while her husband managed a youth basketball league with over 600 players. Their daughter Jessica played at a high level, including representing the U.S. in Austria at the World Youth Games at just 16.
Travel and adventure remain a passion for the Ruggieros, often with family and friends. In the past year, they’ve explored Italy and taken a Mediterranean cruise. Upcoming trips include Australia and New Zealand. They also enjoy sharing their timeshare with loved ones, making travel a communal experience.
Family is central to the Ruggieros. Their daughter Jessica lives in New York, balancing a career as an assistant nurse manager in the ICU with running two businesses. Her husband, James McManus, works as a custodial supervisor and volunteer firefighter. They share their home with a beloved English cream dachshund, Franklin, who the Ruggieros affectionately call their grandpup. Jessica and James are planning to relocate to Leland, continuing the family’s move south.
Community and neighborliness have shaped their Brunswick Forest experience. Donna and Bruce bought the last available lot in Parkview and quickly became part of a tight-knit network of neighbors who share meals, pool parties, and holidays. “We are so blessed to have such wonderful neighbors,” Donna says. Their new friends, combined with family from New York who also live nearby, have made their move a seamless transition. Their home now serves as a halfway stop for family traveling between
New York and Florida, and they delight in hosting friends, family, and even puppies.
Volunteering remains a core value for Donna. Back in New York, she coached youth basketball, volunteered with Girls Inc., food banks, beach cleanups, and mentored law students. Today, BBX allows her to continue this work through charity events without being tied to a single organization, combining her love of community, socializing, and giving back.
Travel, family, community, and service have defined the Ruggieros’ lives, along with a sense of adventure. Whether it’s taking over a taproom, coaching a basketball team, or hosting a potluck, Donna and Bruce embrace life with energy and heart. As Donna says, reflecting on the path from Long Island to Brunswick Forest: “I never had it in my plans to move out of New York, but this is the best decision we ever made. Our friends from the north are still a big part of our lives, and our new friends here have become family.”
In every way, the Ruggieros exemplify a life well-lived: full of family, service, adventure, and, of course, a little fun along the way—sometimes with a cold craft beer in hand.
Skip the Couch. Buy a Sofa
Provided by Nicholas Moriarty, Senior Design Coordinator
FALL AT HIGH POINT MARKET:
STRIPES, WARM TONES & THE RETURN OF THE BANQUETTE
This season at High Point Market felt like a warm embrace—layered, inviting, and full of personality. Everywhere you turned, rich autumnal hues and tailored details made it clear: design is leaning into comfort without sacrificing style.
Clay & Persimmon Take Center Stage
Color stories this fall were grounded in nature, with clay and persimmon leading the way. These earthy, sunbaked tones showed up across upholstery, case goods, and accessories, adding depth and warmth to every vignette. They paired beautifully with soft neutrals, creating spaces that feel both elevated and livable.
STRIPES, STRIPES, STRIPES
If there was one pattern that dominated, it was stripes. From bold, wide bands on sofas to more delicate ticking on accent chairs and pillows, stripes were everywhere—and in the best way. They brought a sense of structure and
timelessness while still feeling fresh and current. The mix of scales kept things interesting, proving that this classic pattern isn’t going anywhere.
MADE BY HAND, MEANT FOR HOME: THE STORY BEHIND BENCH MADE UPHOLSTERY
There’s something deeply comforting about knowing where a piece comes from—who made it, how it was built, and the care woven into every inch of it. In a world that moves fast, there’s still a quiet kind of beauty in things made slowly, by hand, with intention.
That’s what makes Bench Made furniture feel different.
Right here in the USA, each custom upholstered piece begins not on an assembly line, but in the hands of craftsmen and women who have spent years honing their skill. From the first cut of fabric to the final stitch, these pieces pass through as many as 30 artisans— each one adding their own layer of expertise and care. It’s a process that isn’t
You can see it in the details—the way the fabric lays just right, the precision of the tailoring, the sturdiness you feel when you sit down. But more than that, you can feel it. There’s a story in every seam, a quiet pride in every finish.
Custom upholstery, at its best, isn’t just about choosing a fabric or a silhouette. It’s about
hands that truly care about the outcome, it becomes more than furniture—it becomes part of the rhythm of your space.
Simple. Thoughtful. Made to last.
Just the way it should be.
DID YOU KNOW WE OFFER WHITE GLOVE DELIVERY?
The final layer of a home coming together should feel effortless, seamless, and well cared for. Our white glove delivery is designed to bring that sense of ease from start to finish—because the last step matters just as much as the first.
From in-home delivery and professional placement to full inspection and setup, every detail is handled with intention. Our team carefully delivers, unpacks, assembles if needed, and places each piece exactly where it belongs. Before we leave, we thoroughly inspect your furniture to ensure it meets our standards—and yours.
It’s a premium delivery experience built around care, protection, and attention to detail. No heavy lifting, no stress, no guesswork— just a smooth, thoughtful process that allows you to enjoy your space the moment everything is in place.
CUSTOMER REVIEW:
"Excellent experience with Luxe Home Interiors. The entire staff is friendly and helpful. Katelyn DiDio-Weber was our designer and she is absolutely fabulous. She planned out our entire living room and worked with us to incorporate the rest of our existing furniture into a beautiful coastal sanctuary."
Luxe Home Interiors
2013 Olde Regent Way Ste 270, Leland, NC, 28451-4198
Creative Boats, Big Splashes & Community Spirit
Submitted by Debby Daigle Photos provided by Debby Daigle, and Laura Brown
THE 2026 14TH ANNUAL CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA
On April 17th and 18th, Brunswick Forest residents gathered once again for one of the community’s most anticipated traditions—the 14th Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta. Festivities kicked off at Annsdale Park with the lively PreParty before the main event took over Hammock Lake on race day.
Both events drew another record crowd as neighbors came together to celebrate creativity, teamwork, and community spirit. During the Pre-Party, teams proudly displayed their handmade cardboard boat creations, each bringing
its own unique theme, costumes, decorations, and enthusiastic cheering sections. The excitement and friendly competition set the tone for a weekend full of unforgettable moments.
Race day did not disappoint. Hundreds of residents lined the shores of Hammock Lake, eagerly awaiting the launch of this year’s fleet. As the races began, spectators were treated to plenty of speed, laughter, surprises, and of course, a few dramatic splashdowns as some teams found themselves taking an unexpected swim!
Beyond the fun and excitement, the Regatta also made a meaningful impact within the community. Through the
2026 REGATTA WINNERS
FASTEST BOAT: Cape Fear National PEOPLE’S CHOICE: Neptune’s Fury TEAM SPIRIT: Egret Cove Ark BEST IN SHOW: Ride the Wave
generous support of local sponsors, Brunswick Forest raised more than $7,000 during the event. Of that amount, $3,000 was donated to two deserving local charities: Manna Ministries and Brunswick Habitat for Humanity. The remaining proceeds were distributed among this year’s winning teams.
Events like the Cardboard Boat Regatta are only possible because of the incredible dedication and hard work of the Brunswick Forest team. Special thanks go to Tiffany Singleton, Manager of the Brunswick Forest Fitness & Wellness Center, and Assistant Manager Katy Ingalls, whose outstanding organization and leadership continue to make this beloved annual tradition such a tremendous success for the entire community.
There’s just something about banana pudding that feels like home in the South. Maybe it’s the sweet smell of vanilla wafers softening between layers of creamy pudding and ripe bananas, or the memories of family gatherings, church suppers, and summer Sunday dinners where a big dish of banana pudding always seemed to disappear first. This classic Southern favorite is rich, comforting, and surprisingly simple to make — a timeless dessert that brings people together one delicious spoonful at a time.
INGREDIENTS
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 cups ice cold water
1 (3.4 oz.)
box vanilla instant pudding mix
3 cups heavy cream
4 cups sliced barely ripe bananas, (see note)
1 (12 oz.) box
Nilla Wafers
INSTRUCTIONS
In a large bowl, beat together the sweetened condensed milk and water until well combined - about 1 minute. Add the pudding mix and beat well - about 2 minutes.
Cover and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or overnight. It is very important to allow the proper amount of time for the pudding mixture to set. It will be watery if you don't let it set up long enough.
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until no streaks of pudding remain. Dessert can either be made in individual portions or in a large glass bowl with 4–5-quart capacity (a 9x13 baking dish also works).
To assemble dessert, arrange 1/3 of the Nilla wafers covering the bottom, overlapping if necessary. Next, layer 1/3 of the bananas, and 1/3 of the pudding mixture. Repeat twice more, garnishing with additional wafers or wafer crumbs on the top layer. Cover tightly and allow to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours - or up to 8 hours, no longer (bananas will start to brown).
NOTES
The reason the recipe says to serve within 8 hours is that the bananas will turn brown as they oxidize. There are a couple of things you can do to make not brown as fast:
1) Pick bananas that are barely ripe. If they are slightly green and the stem, those are perfect. These will tend to brown as fast.
2) Brush them with some lemon juice. Any fruit juice helps (pineapple, apple, orange). This can change the flavor slightly so brushing them is better than soaking them. Even water neutralizes the ph and will slow down the browning if you rinse them in water.
3) Rinse them with club soda. The advantage here is that it won't affect the taste. Don't use tonic as it has a bad taste.
4) Try to keep them airtight. The less contact with the air the less they will brown.
