PICKLEBALL FEVER sweeps Brunswick Forest MAY 2026
Cover Photo by G. Frank Hart
MEET OUR EXPERTS
JBG Painting Services
Take the Pain Out of Painting
Jeremy and Billie Gunn, owners
Service@jbgpainting.com
keith@brunswater.com www.brunswater.com
FAMILY & GENERAL DENTISTRY
Blue Wave Dentistry
Dr. Chad Biggersta 910-383-2615
1300 S. Dickinson Drive Leland, NC 28451
GARAGE DOOR SPECIALIST
Jimmy Davis, Owner 910-833-1961
9550 Ploof Rd SE Building 3 Leland, NC 28451
JimmyDavis@garagedoorspecialist.net
INTERIOR DESIGNER
LUXE Home Interiors
910-371-0464
Waterford Village 2013 Olde Regent Way #270 Leland, NC 28451 Luxewaterford.com
HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
O'Brien Service Company
Proudly Serving the Wilmington/ Brunswick County area since 1981
Call: (910) 799-6611
5516 Business Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 obrienservice.com/
KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN/BUILD
Mary Ellen Willson, Owner LRG Kitchen and Bath Design
147 Old Fayetteville Rd Leland, NC 28451
LRGKitandBath.com
ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALIST
Dr. Joseph B. Norris, MD Advanced Orthopedics 910-641-8670
509 Olde Waterford Way Suite 102 Leland, NC 28451 crhealthcare.com
PEST CONTROL SERVICE
Avid Pest Pro
Ryan Lapps, Owner (910) 465-0923
avidpestpro@gmail.com avidpestpro.com
POOLS & SPAS
Ocean Blue Pools and Spas
Pauline Dunne, Owner O: (910) 799-3022
pauline@oceanbluepoolsandspas. com
7239 Market St. Wilmington, NC 28411
PORCH CONVERSION
Taylor Waddle, Owner/President
1536 Castle Hayne Rd #24 Wilmington, NC 28401 910-777-3363 porchconversion.com
REAL ESTATE
RE/MAX Essential
Debby Daigle, CLHMS Email ddaigle@remax.net debbydaigle.com choosetheballoon.com
PUBLISHER: Debby Daigle
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: G. Frank Hart Photography PUBLICATION TEAM
CONTENT COORDINATOR: Doreen Sargente
DESIGNER: Amanda Capehart
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Hello Friends and Neighbors,
May is one of the most beautiful times of the year here in Brunswick Forest. The days are longer, the sun feels just right, and our community is alive with activity—from morning walks and bike rides to evenings spent with friends and neighbors enjoying everything this incredible place has to o er.
As we step into this vibrant season, we also take time to celebrate Mother's Day—a special opportunity to honor the women who have shaped our lives with love, strength, and guidance. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or simply re ecting on cherished memories, I hope your day is lled with appreciation and joy.
This month’s feature story highlights something that has truly taken Brunswick Forest by storm—the Brunswick Forest Pickleball Club. What started as a casual pastime has grown into a thriving, energetic community of more than 500 members. From beginners just learning the game to seasoned players perfecting their drop shots, the courts have become a place where friendships are formed, laughter is shared, and a little friendly competition keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s hard not to catch the pickleball bug once you step onto the court!
I’d also like to extend a warm welcome to one of our newest sponsors, Epik Resin, owned by Xander Talley. Specializing in high-quality resin-bound stone surfaces, Epik Resin o ers a beautiful and durable solution for driveways, patios, and pool surrounds. Their surfaces are UV-stable, slip-resistant, and designed for proper drainage—making them both practical and visually stunning. We’re excited to have Xander and his team as part of the Brunswick Forest Living family.
ADVERTISING
Contact: Debby Daigle
Phone: 910-443-3199
Email: ddaigle@bestversionmedia.com
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
And speaking of special members of our community… we’re excited to bring back a favorite feature— Pet Corner!
Let Brunswick Forest Living feature your BFF! We’d love to highlight your best furry friend.
Send us:
• A favorite photo of your pet
• 2–3 sentences telling us why they are special Email submissions to: ddaigle@bestversionmedia.com
We can’t wait to meet the beloved pets who bring so much joy to your homes. Thank you, as always, for being part of what makes Brunswick Forest such a special place to live. Whether you’re out on the pickleball courts, enjoying your backyard, or simply soaking in these beautiful spring days, I hope this season brings you happiness and connection.
Ciao!
Debby Daigle, Publisher, ddaigle@bestversionmedia.com
Hello Neighbors,
This month, we are leaning into that active spring spirit. I’m thrilled to point you toward our feature article on the Brunswick Forest Pickleball Club. Whether you are a seasoned "pro" on the court or someone who has been curious about the buzz surrounding the sport, this piece captures the camaraderie and health bene ts that make this club such a vibrant part of our neighborhood culture.
Following the overwhelming response to our rst presentation, I’m excited to announce we will be hosting an additional session on The Good Life Abroad this month. We will meet on Tuesday, May 19 from 4-6 at The Commons to discuss the unique advantages of "slow travel."
Please Note Our Updated Entry Policy: Due to building re codes and room capacity limits, pre-registration is mandatory. * Check-In: We will have individuals at the door checking names against the registration list. No Walk-ins: To ensure the comfort and safety of our guests, we cannot admit anyone who is not on the list or who is on the waitlist.
To Register: Email me at dsargente@bestversionmedia.com.
We want everyone to have a seat and a great experience, so please secure your spot early!
I hope you all nd plenty of reasons to get outside and enjoy the sunshine this month.
As always, stay safe, stay healthy, and stay grateful.
Doreen Sargente, Content Coordinator, dsargente@bestversionmedia.com
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Groucho Was Wrong
BY MARK SKALL
I’ve never been much of a joiner. I subscribe to Groucho Marx’s philosophy that he would never join a club that would have him.
I grew up in Brooklyn where I had lots of friends. We played stickball, punchball, basketball and other games we made up. That required a large group. But when I got married and moved to Maryland things changed. I worked many hours at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and had very little time for friends. My wife, Diana, and my best friend Stan were the only friends I needed. Being young and foolish, my idea of heaven was one or two friends, a can of beer and a football game. Even when I went to dinner with my wife Diana, I would always insist that we were joined by at most one couple. A group larger than that made me uncomfortable. But now that I’m older, and a little less foolish, my philosophy has changed.
After I retired from NIST, Diana and I moved to Brunswick Forest. Shortly thereafter, I wrote my memoir, “Guilty with an Explanation”. Writing my book took a lot of time and I had very little
time to make new friends. That changed when I started playing pickleball and met a group of guys who all clicked with each other. The Beer Dinkers play pickleball a couple of times a week and go out to drink beer directly afterwards. Hence the name Beer Dinkers.
The Beer Dinkers are a group of around 20 men who have absolutely nothing in common – except for our love of pickleball. And beer! We are of different nationalities, have different personalities, different political views, different interests, and are of different ages, ranging from about 60 to 85. Yet we bond like no other group of people I’ve ever seen. When we’re together, we laugh, laugh again and then laugh some more. Occasionally we’re serious if someone has a problem. Then the outpouring of support is tremendous. We are truly brothers. In fact, while drinking beer, we often muse about how lucky we are to have such a tight knit group to share our lives with as we age. Is that the beer talking? I don’t think so. Studies show that pickleball adds nine years to one’s life expectancy. Some of the longer life span is from the cardiovascular benefits but much of it is from the camaraderie that pickleball is known for.
The Beer Dinkers are not the only group I’ve become associated with in my older, and wiser, years. A bunch of 10 guys or so have been going to Hell’ s Kitchen in Wilmington to play trivia for the last ten years or so. We never miss a Monday night, and we all look forward
with each other. A few men from the trivia team, plus a different group of football fanatics, also meet regularly once a week during football season to bet with each other on NFL football games. The betting takes only a few minutes, but the twelve of us hang around for an hour or two talking football.
I’m also in two fantasy football leagues and two fantasy baseball leagues. Each league has completely different participants, ranging from eight to twelve members but, again, the commonality is the bonding experience among all the participants. Although we typically only physically meet once a year to do our draft, we correspond continually during the season. When we get together, we have endless fun catching up with each other and trash talking about each other’s teams.
I’ve changed physically as I’ve gotten older.
When I was young, my slick backed hair was my pride and joy. Now that I’m follically challenged, my friends refuse to believe that the pictures I show them of my younger self are actually me. But as much as I’ve changed physically, I’ve changed more socially. I’ve morphed from someone who just wanted to hang out with my wife, Diana, and my best friend Stan, to someone who can’t wait for the next adventure with my various bands of brothers.
Brunswick Little Theater
BY ARCHIE GIDWANI
– A “little’ theater in Southport that is “big” on the variety of Plays they bring to the community
Many of us have already had an enjoyable evening or two at the Brunswick Little Theater in Southport. As soon as you set your eyes on their stand alone “theater in a home” façade, you are filled with anticipation for a very enjoyable evening. From iconic plays like “Plaza Suite by Neil Simon”, “The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams” to “Red Velvet by Lolita Chakrobarty” - Brunswick Little Theater has presented a smorgasbord of entertainment.
BLT’s mission is to entertain, enrich and educate us through shows that make us laugh but also ponder about life. Red Velvet for instance explored the themes of racial equity and the backlash Ira Aldridge the first African American actor to act on the London stage in 1833 faced for his role as Othello. The lead actor of this play was nominated for the Wilmington Theater Awards.
BLT is presenting “End Days’ by Deborah Zoe Laufer on June 11-28 – a funny and touching play. Get ready to laugh out aloud at the dysfunctional family dynamics of the Stein family and maybe shed a tear or two at the kindness and human connections that ultimately provide the help the family needs. Set in the time just after 9/11- which has affected a lot of us directly or indirectly.
Arthur, the only survivor amongst his time from the 9/11 has sunk into deep depression and his wife Sylvia, has abruptly embraced evangelical Christianity and believes the Apocalypse is coming…on Wednesday. Into this chaos arrives Nelson, the sweet, science-obsessed new neighbor who dresses like Elvis and is determined to win over Rachel – Arthur and Sylvia’s pretty daughter. The play blends humor, heart, and existential questions as the Steins stumble toward connection and
healing. It is also the only play that I know of where you can see Stephen Hawking, Jesus and Elvis all on the same stage.
I asked the director Victor Gallo what he particularly likes about this play and this is what he said:
“I find this script compelling because it confronts several serious topics with humor and compassion and ends with a message of hope. It also addresses the apparent conflict between religion and science – a topic relevant to the current times”
BLT has a seating capacity of about 80 and their shows are frequently sold out. Reserve a ticket for “End Days” by going to their website https://www.brunswicklittletheatre. com/Get-Tickets
Volunteer, Audition or Get involved in other ways with Brunswick Little Theaterby writing an email to BLT@ brunswicklittletheater.com
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Cape Fear River Pollution, PFAS & Your Water: Why a Whole-House PFAS Filter Is Urgent
Pollution in the Cape Fear River watershed isn’t a distant problem—it’s affecting your drinking water right now. Recent events show contamination is ongoing, widespread, and still not fully controlled by regulators or polluters.
BRUNSWICK COUNTY POLLUTION CONVICTION: A WAKE-UP CALL
In December 2025, American Distillation, Inc. (ADI), a chemical processor in Brunswick County, pleaded guilty to knowingly dumping toxic chemical waste, including tert-Butyl alcohol (TBOH), directly into the Cape Fear River, violating the Clean Water Act.
This conviction proves one thing clearly: industrial polluters can, and do put our water at risk if they think they can get away with it.
CHEMOURS AND PFAS: DECADES OF CONTAMINATION AND PENDING PERMIT BATTLES
The story doesn’t end with one convicted polluter.
Chemours has been linked to PFAS contamination in the Cape Fear River for decades. Independent tests show ultrashort-chain PFAS compounds in drinking water supplies for more than 500,000 North Carolinians, including people in Brunswick, New Hanover, and surrounding counties.
Now Chemours is pushing to expand production at its Fayetteville Works plant, even as local governments and utilities oppose the move. The Cape Fear Public
Utility Authority (CFPUA), Wilmington City Council, and Brunswick County commissioners all passed resolutions urging regulators to deny Chemours’ expansion plans—citing increased PFAS releases and inadequate pollution controls.
This is the same Chemours whose legacy pollution has forced municipal systems to spend tens of millions on PFAS treatment systems, because standard water treatment does not reliably remove these “forever chemicals.”
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR TAP WATER
Here’s the reality for Cape Fear River communities today:
• Polluters have been caught and convicted — but contamination continues.
Municipal plants can’t remove all PFAS or industrial chemical contaminants on their own.
Even if your water meets legal standards, it may still contain PFAS and other persistent chemicals linked to:
Hormone disruption
• Immune system effects
Increased cancer risk
• Developmental concerns for children
THE
ONE THING YOU CAN CONTROL: YOUR HOME’S WATER QUALITY
Waiting for regulators or corporations to “fix” this problem can take years — decades, even. But there’s something every household can do right now:
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INSTALL A WHOLE-HOUSE PFAS FILTRATION SYSTEM
A whole-house PFAS filter protects every faucet — not just the kitchen sink — by filtering out PFAS and other harmful contaminants before water enters your home. Benefits include:
• Whole-home protection for drinking, cooking, bathing, and laundry
• Removal of PFAS, GenX, and other persistent industrial chemicals
Reduced long-term exposure linked to cancer and immunerelated risks
• Peace of mind knowing your family isn’t relying solely on municipal treatment
• Consistent protection regardless of future pollution events or regulatory changes
In a watershed still facing industrial pollution, weak enforcement, and contested permits, a whole-house PFAS system is your first line of defense.
TAKE ACTION TODAY WITH BRUNSWICK WATER FILTERS
At Brunswick Water Filters, we specialize in whole-house PFAS filtration systems designed for homes that draw water from the Cape Fear River basin.
Don’t wait for another pollution conviction or permit controversy before you act.
Call us today – (910)253-5769 • www.safewaternc.com
safewaternc.com
As the days get longer, your home uses more water. Brunswick Water Filters system keeps every drop clean and clear. Call 844-743-7327 today.
Warmer days are here.
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REAL ESTATE STATISTICS - MARCH 2026
PENDING
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The Pickleball Explosion SERVED UP:
BY DOREEN SARGENTE
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY KIM LACHANCE, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR BRUNSWICK FOREST PICKLEBALL CLUB
Pickleball’s beauty lies in its accessibility: it’s quick to learn, easy on the joints, and addictive in the best way possible.
It’s official: Brunswick Forest has a pickleball obsession— and it’s contagious. What started as a casual pastime has evolved into a vibrant, competitive, and downright joyful community hub. With more than 500 members and counting, the Brunswick Forest Pickleball Club (BFPC) offers something for everyone—from first-timers learning to keep score to seasoned “picklers” chasing that perfect drop shot.
“Pickleball has gotten faster and more competitive,” says club member Erin. “You’re seeing younger people getting involved now, and the mix of ages and energy makes it so much fun.”
That blend of competition and camaraderie is what defines pickleball in Brunswick Forest. Sure, you’ll hear the rhythmic pop-pop-pop of paddles and see some serious action at the nets, but you’ll also find laughter, encouragement, and a steady stream of new friendships forming on and off the court.
The club is open to all Brunswick Forest residents who enjoy both play and good company. Members can drop in during scheduled hours for social matches, reserve court time at the Fitness Center courts for personal play, or step up to compete in one of the many organized events. The membership fee—$25 per person or $40 per family—seems almost symbolic for the value it brings: endless opportunities to play, connect, and belong.
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Brunswick Forest is spoiled for choice when it comes to courts. Four sit near the tennis courts at the Fitness and Wellness Center, and six more gleam at the Cape Fear National (CFN) courts. Between these two locations, there’s always a game to join and always someone ready to play “just one more.”
For those looking to sharpen their skills, longtime instructor Pete continues to hold lessons on Tuesday (intermediate level) and Friday mornings (beginner) from 10 am-12 pm, and the club now offers instructional clinics several times a year for both beginners and intermediates. These sessions fill up fast—proof that there’s no shortage of eager learners in this paddling paradise.
The BFPC calendar is packed with opportunities to play and connect, and the atmosphere is as friendly as it is competitive.
Saturday Morning “Skatterday” is one of the club’s most beloved traditions. Running from spring through fall (with a break during the summer heat), this weekly event divides players into playful categories—Dill, Hot & Spicy, and Jalapeño—based on skill level. Players rotate partners and log scores over several rounds of games, all in good fun. It’s a mix of camaraderie and competition that perfectly captures the spirit of Brunswick Forest pickleball. Then there’s Tuesday Night Round Robin, another community favorite. Under the lights, players are randomly paired for social play—an easy way to mix things up and meet new people. “It’s such a great way to connect,” Erin says. “You get to play with people you might not normally partner with, and by the end of the night, you’ve made a few new friends.”
For those who prefer a higher-octane challenge, the Shark Challenge and Barracuda Challenge turn up the intensity. The Shark Challenge features the community’s top 4.0+ players in a thrilling Round Robin format at the CFN courts. It’s become a bit of a spectator sport, drawing residents with folding chairs (plastic-footed, of course) eager to
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We
“We come for the come the game, but we stay for the people.” but we stay
Do Painting, You Do Life!
watch the action. The Barracuda Challenge, meanwhile, caters to 3.5-level players, pairing men and women in teams for a full day of spirited match play. “You don’t just win the Barracuda,” one member joked. “You survive it.”
Beyond Brunswick Forest, the Cape Fear Inter-Community League gives members at the 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 levels the chance to compete with neighboring communities in men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles matches. These friendly rivalries strengthen the ties that pickleball has already built across the region.
Even beyond Brunswick Forest, the club keeps the momentum going through the Cape Fear InterCommunity League, where local teams face off weekly in Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. It’s another example of how pickleball is connecting neighborhoods and building friendships well beyond the boundaries of the community.
Other fun club events include: Membership Appreciation breakfast, Dinko de Mayo, Dink for Pink (proceeds go to charity),Summer Social, Mommies and Muffins and a December holiday party.
Despite the growing competition, at its core, the Brunswick Forest Pickleball Club is about inclusion and fun. The courts buzz with players of all ages—retirees reliving their athletic glory days, newcomers who just learned what a “kitchen” is, and young players who are bringing fresh speed and energy to the mix.
Pickleball’s beauty lies in its accessibility: it’s quick to learn, easy on the joints, and addictive in the best way possible. One game turns into three, and three games turn into “let’s grab lunch after.”
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So whether you’re chasing your first dink shot or your next championship, the Brunswick Forest Pickleball Club is the place to be. It’s where competition meets community, and where a simple game has become the heartbeat of Brunswick Forest.
As Erin summed it up with a smile, “We come for the game, but we stay for the people.”
And really, that’s the secret to the club’s success. The Brunswick Forest Pickleball Club isn’t just about paddles and points—it’s about laughter, encouragement, and the thrill of being part of something bigger. Whether you’re chasing your first dink shot or your next championship, there’s a place waiting for you on the courts.
So grab your paddle, find your spot, and get ready to join the fun. Because at Brunswick Forest, pickleball isn’t just a game—it’s a way of life.
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BY LUCINDA HAHN
A to Z Pickleball!
Do you know these 26 essential terms and what they mean?
A — ACE
A serve that lands in the correct service box and isn’t touched by the opponent, winning the point immediately.
B — BACKHAND
A shot hit on the non-dominant side of your body, usually with the back of the hand facing the net.
C — CROSSCOURT
A shot hit diagonally across the court to the opponent’s opposite side.
D — DINK
A soft, controlled shot that barely clears the net and lands in the opponent’s court.
E — ERNE
An advanced move where a player jumps outside the sideline near the kitchen to volley a shot, avoiding the non-volley rule.
F — FAULT
Any rule violation that stops play, such as hitting the ball out or serving incorrectly.
G — GROUNDSTROKE
A shot hit after the ball bounces, usually from the baseline.
H — HALF-VOLLEY
A shot hit immediately after the ball bounces, before it rises very high.
I — INSIDE-OUT SHOT
A shot hit from one side of the court angled back toward the same side, surprising opponents.
J — JUMP SMASH
A powerful overhead shot where a player jumps while hitting, similar to a spike in volleyball.
K — KITCHEN
The nickname for the non-volley zone, the area close to the net where players cannot volley the ball.
L — LOB
A high shot hit over opponents’ heads, pushing them toward the back of the court.
M — MIDDLE RESET
A soft shot aimed between opponents to neutralize an aggressive position.
N — NON-VOLLEY ZONE
The official name for the 7-foot area on both sides of the net where volleys are not allowed.
O — OVERHEAD
A shot hit above the player’s head, often used to finish a point.
P — PADDLE
The solid racket that is used to hit the ball.
Q — QUICK HANDS
A term describing a player’s fast reaction speed at the net during rapid exchanges.
R — RALLY
A series of shots that's exchanged between players after the serve.
S — SKINNY SINGLES
A practice game where players only use half the court, helping them practice control and placement.
T — THIRD SHOT DROP
A strategic soft shot played after the serve and return, designed to land in the kitchen and allow the serving team to move forward.
U — UNDERHAND SERVE
The mandatory serve type in pickleball that is performed underhand with the paddle below the waist.
V — VOLLEY
Hitting the ball before it bounces.
W — WINNER
A shot that cannot be returned by the opponent, immediately ending the rally.
X — X-COURT ANGLE
A slang variation of crosscourt, describing a sharply angled diagonal shot.
Y — YELLOW BALL
Most pickleballs are bright yellow for better visibility during play.
Z — ZERO TOLERANCE ZONE
A humorous way players refer to the kitchen, emphasizing that volleys there are forbidden.
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Family-Friendly Memorial Day Traditions to Start This Year
SUBMITTED
BY
Memorial Day is an important time to remember and honor the men and women who have served in the military. While it’s often associated with barbecues and summer kick-offs, Memorial Day can also be a meaningful time to reflect, volunteer, and establish family traditions that help kids understand the significance of the holiday. Here are a few family-friendly ideas to make your Memorial Day more meaningful and create traditions that will last for years.
1. ATTEND A LOCAL PARADE
Many towns and cities host Memorial Day parades to honor veterans and active-duty service members. Make it a family tradition to attend your local parade, where you can show support, learn about the history of the holiday, and enjoy the festivities. Some parades include marching bands, veterans groups, and military units, providing an educational experience for children to see firsthand how communities come together to pay their respects.
2. VOLUNTEER TOGETHER
A great way to make Memorial Day more meaningful is to volunteer as a family. You can help at a local veteran’s organization, participate in a community clean-up, or even organize care packages to send to active-duty soldiers. Volunteering fosters a sense of gratitude and responsibility in children and teaches them the importance of giving back.
3. CREATE A FAMILY FLAG DISPLAY
Honor the military by displaying American flags outside your home. This could be a simple
KAT BEASLEY
flag on the front porch or a more elaborate display featuring flags from different branches of the military. It’s a great way to visually show respect for those who have served, and it offers an opportunity to teach kids about the significance of the flag and what it represents.
4. SHARE STORIES OF SERVICE
Take time on Memorial Day to share stories of military service within your own family or from people you know. Whether it’s a story about a grandparent, a neighbor, or a local hero, these personal stories can help children connect to the history of Memorial Day and understand the sacrifices made by service members. It’s a meaningful way to educate children about the importance of the holiday.
5. MAKE A MEMORIAL DAY COLLAGE
Create a family collage to honor fallen heroes. Collect photographs of veterans in your family, cut out symbols of remembrance like poppies, or include newspaper clippings of historical events. Put everything together on a large poster board or canvas, and display it proudly in your home. This creative project is a wonderful way to reflect on the holiday’s significance while spending time together as a family.
Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend—it’s an opportunity to teach children about the importance of remembrance, honor, and gratitude. By starting a family tradition this year, you can instill lasting values and create memories that will carry on for generations to come.
On March 2nd, I had the pleasure of visiting Brunswick Surgery Center—located on the first floor of the EmergeOrtho Bldg. at Brunswick Forest— to celebrate a remarkable achievement: Mako Milestone Day, marking their 2,000th Mako robotic-assisted surgery.
I was welcomed by Dr. Eric Lescault, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon
specializing in joint replacement and sports medicine and one of the founding physicians behind Brunswick Surgery Center.
Brunswick Surgery Center opened in September 2020 and is a physician owned ambulatory surgery center. Not only does it perform minimally invasive hip and knee robotic surgery but also offers outpatient surgeries to include foot and ankle, hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder procedures. It has earned the prestigious DNV
Orthopedic Center of Excellence designation—a top-tier accreditation that reflects rigorous standards set by DNV and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), with a focus on patient safety, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.
“I believe that the DNV certification reflects our efforts to support the vision and mindset of Brunswick Surgery Center,” said Dr. Lescault.
“That vision has always been to offer the most technologically advanced,
3:1 Resident to Caregiver Ratio
24/7 Exceptional Care
Fresh Home-Cooked Meals
Peaceful Home & Neighborhood
Engageing
affordable orthopedic care to our region.”
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In 2021, BSC introduced Mako roboticassisted technology for hip and knee replacements—bringing cutting-edge innovation closer to home.
“We wanted to bring robotics here, so patients don’t have to travel for it,” Dr. Lescault shared. “There really is no reason to go outside the region.”
WHAT MAKES MAKO TECHNOLOGY SO ADVANCED?
The Mako system is far more than a robotic tool—it’s a highly sophisticated surgical platform that begins with a CT-based 3D model of the patient’s joint. This allows surgeons to plan every detail of the procedure in advance, from sizing to precise component placement.
Dr. Lescault likens it to “a pilot flying with radar.” The technology provides real-time guidance, while the surgeon remains in full control of the robotic arm throughout the procedure.
The result is greater precision, less soft tissue damage, and more accurate implant placement—leading to less pain, faster recovery, and higher patient satisfaction.
WHY IT MATTERS FOR PATIENTS
The benefits of robotic-assisted surgery are significant:
• Less post-operative pain and reduced need for opioids
Faster recovery and quicker return to daily activities
Improved joint function and flexibility
Greater implant stability and longevity
CARE CLOSE TO HOME
What stood out to me most wasn’t just the technology—it was the intention behind it. The investment in bringing this level of innovation to Brunswick Forest reflects a deep commitment to our community.
At the end of the day, when friends gather and the conversation turns to aches and pains, it’s reassuring to know that relief is right here—just down the street.
I’m grateful to Dr. Lescault and the entire Brunswick Surgery Center team for their dedication, compassion, and pursuit of excellence. It’s exactly the kind of care we hope for—and the kind we’re fortunate to have right here at home.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
THURSDAY–SATURDAY, MAY 7–9
Best for Families
WILMA Dash & Health Festh
@ Wilmington Riverfront 5K run/walk paired with a community wellness festival featuring vendors and activities.
Time: Race mornings; festival continues midday
Cost: Registration fee required
FRIDAY–SUNDAY, MAY 8–10
Best for Families
The Wizard of Oz
@ Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Classic musical adventure following Dorothy down the yellow brick road.
Time: Evening performances at 7:30 PM; Sunday matinee at 2:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed; typically $25–$35
SATURDAY, MAY 9
Best for Families
Riverfront Farmers Market
@ Downtown Wilmington Riverwalk
Fresh produce, local goods, live music, and kid-friendly browsing along the Cape Fear River.
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Free to attend
SUNDAY, MAY 10
Best for Families
Mother’s Day at the Gardens
@ Airlie Gardens
Stroll blooming gardens with familyfriendly activities and spring scenery.
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: Admission fee; children discounted
WEDNESDAY, MAY 13
Jazz at CAM
@ Cameron Art Museum
Live jazz in an intimate gallery setting.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed; typically $40–$60
FRIDAY, MAY 15
Family Movie Night in the Park
@ Leland Municipal Park
Outdoor movie under the stars with space for blankets and lawn chairs.
Time: Movie begins at dusk (~8:15 PM)
Cost: Free
SATURDAY, MAY 16
Best for Families
North Brunswick Heritage Festival
@ Leland Municipal Park
Local vendors, live entertainment, kids’ activities, and community exhibits.
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Free
SUNDAY, MAY 17
Live! at CAM Café
@ Cameron Art Museum
Casual live music in a relaxed café environment.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Free
THURSDAY, MAY 21
A Garden Stroll
A self-guided tour of 7 private gardens in Brunswick Forest
Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM (rain or shine)
Cost: $15 purchased at the Fitness Center on 5/6 (not 5/20) from 4:00PM - 6:30PM $20 on 5/21, purchased at the garden on Creswell Drive in Cape Fear National (Look for the check-in table in front of the house.)
SATURDAY, MAY 23
Best for Families
Memorial Day Weekend
Concert & Fireworks
@ Riverfront Park, Wilmington
Live music followed by a fireworks display along the river.
Time: Concert begins ~6:00 PM; fireworks at dusk
Cost: Free
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© Best Version Media
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
MONDAY, MAY 25
Best for Families
Memorial Day Ceremony
@ Veterans Park, Leland Community gathering honoring service members with a respectful, familyappropriate program.
Time: 11:00 AM
Cost: Free
SATURDAY, MAY 30
Best for Families
Sunset Beach Summer Market Kicko
@ Sunset Beach Town Park
Seasonal outdoor market with crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment.
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Cost: Free
JUNE 2026
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3
Jazz at CAM
@ Cameron Art Museum
Evening jazz performance in a welcoming setting.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed; typically $40–$60
FRIDAY, JUNE 5
Best for Families
Sounds of Summer Concert Series
@ Leland Municipal Park
Live outdoor concert with family-friendly music and open lawn seating.
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Cost: Free
SATURDAY, JUNE 6
Best for Families
Riverfront Farmers Market
@ Downtown Wilmington Riverwalk
Local produce, artisan goods, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Free to attend
SUNDAY, JUNE 7
Best for Families
Family Day at the Museum
@ Cameron Art Museum
Hands-on art activities and interactive exhibits designed for children and families.
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Included with admission; free for members
TUESDAY–SUNDAY, JUNE 9–14
Seussical the Musical
@ Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Colorful, whimsical musical bringing Dr. Seuss characters to life — especially fun for younger audiences.
Time: Evening shows at 7:30 PM; select matinees at 2:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed; typically $20–$30
May Golf Opportunities for Women –LPGA Amateur Golf Association Cape Fear/Wilmington NC Chapter
SATURDAY, MAY 2, The Pearl Golf Links, Calabash, 8AM 18 holes/$68
SATURDAY, MAY 23, Wilmington
Municipal Golf Course, Wilmington, 10AM 18 holes/$58
SUNDAY, MAY 31, North Shore Golf Course, Sneads Ferry, 10AM, 18 holes/$55
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
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