December 2023 Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine

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STAFF

EDITOR

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

Jeffrey Stites jeff@liveoakmediainc.com

Chuck and Sue Cothran

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ASSISTANT EDITOR

Carla Edstrom Patricia Langer

Lisa P. Stites

Jan Morgan-Swegle lisa@southportmag.com

Joe Jancsurak Lisa P. Stites

LEAD DESIGNER

Jeffrey Stites

Liz Brinker

PUBLISHER & SALES

lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com

Jeffrey Stites jeff@liveoakmediainc.com 910-471-7741

Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine is published once a month by Live Oak Media.

The opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of the staff.

Annual Subscription: $45 email jeff@liveoakmediainc.com 910-471-7741 Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461 www.shallottemag.com email jeff@liveoakmediainc.com 910-471-7741

Introducing Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine W

elcome to the very first issue of Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine! When Lisa and I bought Southport Magazine and Leland Magazine from their founder Kris Beasley back in December of 2019, we intended to immediately put Kris’ plan for starting this magazine into action. And then came Covid and the resulting upheaval. It took a bit to get things on track for expansion, but here we are, and we’re so excited to get started!

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t’s fitting that I’m writing this on Thanksgiving. We are incredibly grateful for our community and the support we’ve enjoyed from our readers and advertisers, and we will do all we can to bring you the best of where you live each month. That’s what we’re here for. We do a bit of everything—events, food, business profiles, features on the interesting things your neighbors are up to, arts, culture, and generally offering a fun, interesting connection to our community. It’s the best job in the world, really. There is just so much to love about where we live that sharing it never gets old.

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or this issue’s cover we thought about all the beautiful scenery we could show you, but in the end we decided that, as scenic as our surroundings are, what makes this community so great is its people — people like the Sheffields. In my previous career, I managed Columbus and Brunswick counties for a beer distributor. I got to know all of Brunswick County very well, and got to meet some of the amazing people that make this community tick, and the Sheffield family is one of my favorites. We hope you enjoy reading their story as much as we enjoyed getting to reconnect with them for this issue’s lead story.

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e had a great time working on this issue all around. We got to meet the people behind the wonderful bagels at The Bagel Dock in Calabash and the farming family that opened The Heritage Farm Market and made it a staple for people countywide. We visited the Museum of Coastal Carolina for the first

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FROM THE PUBLISHERS time in way too long and got in the Christmas Spirit a bit early at the Festival of Trees, then reached out to a few of the people who decorated those trees to raise money for charities close to their own hearts. And our contributor Patty shares the story of a group of ladies that carries on that Christmas Giving Spirit all year round with a Birthday Gift Ministry, serving families throughout Brunswick County.

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e’d love to have your help making this publication exactly what you want. Your first, and easiest, assignment is to participate in our Annual Pet Issue. Just send a photo of your furry, feathered, finned or scaly friends to jeff@liveoakmediainc.com and we’ll share your photo in our Pet Issue. We’ll even chose one lucky critter to grace the January cover!

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e also have opportunities to join our team as a freelance writer or photographer. If you have a talent with a pen or camera, it’s a great way to share the best of your community with your neighbors, or, if you’re new to town, to find out about all our area offers. We love including the perspectives of long-time residents and newcomers.

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ven if you aren’t ready to write, we love hearing your story ideas.

Are you involved in a charity that would benefit from more visibility? Is your friend or neighbor one of the most fascinating people? Do you know of a business with an inspiring backstory? Let us know and we might be able to share any of these things in our pages.

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e are incredibly grateful to each and every person reading this and hope you enjoy what you find inside as much as we loved creating this magazine for you. heers and Happy Holidays--- Jeffrey and Lisa Stites

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Business Feature The Family Business

“I started in 1977, I was a junior in high school. I have six brothers and sisters. I was 16 and I wanted to get a job so I could pay for my school ring, annual, cap and gown, and help momma and a daddy out. So I got a summer job here and I just never left,” she said.

Sheffield’s Seafood & Grocery -- Making Customers Feel At Home For Over 50 Years STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

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ome places, and some people, just become a part of the fabric of a community. One of those places, Sheffield’s Seafood & Grocery, greets anyone crossing the bridge onto Ocean Isle Beach, and inside was one of those people — Johnny Sheffield. In my former career as a beer salesman, I was fortunate to have Sheffields, and Johnny, as customers. This quickly become one of my very favorite accounts, for the same reasons that it has become a part of what defines the community.

Last Christmas we lost Johnny. I was shocked when I read the news. Johnny was larger than life. He held court in that store, often behind the seafood counter or on the tackle aisle, talking with tourists who were in the store for their first time and would be going home in a week and with long-time customers who’d been coming in to Sheffield’s since it opened more than 55 years ago, with the same genuine interest and warmness and tremendous sense of humor. He made everyone feel like family and the store felt like a big, giant living room, if living rooms had beer coolers and fresh shrimp and T-shirts for sale.

In 1981, Johnny left his job as cross country truck driver to work at the store, and that’s where he and Wendy met.

Johnny’s family joined him in that store, and I believe that was a part of what made it feel so homey. His wife Wendy was there, along with his children, Johnathan and Louise. When I met the Sheffields, the kids were, well, kids, but then they grew up and Louise married Kyle Baccarny, and then little Eva entered the family. Toward the end of my time as a beer man, almost every trip into Sheffield’s I’d see Johnny with his granddaughter Eva and see that he was the happiest guy ever.

Last summer my wife and Lisa stopped in to see how the Sheffield’s were doing and found Wendy and Johnathan (now n a m e d John-John by Eva) behind the seafood c o u n t e r.

We chatted about J o h n ny and the store and how much both meant to Ocean Isle Beach, and when we left I had decided this story needed

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to be written. Now, almost a year after Johnny’s death, Sheffield’s is still homey, still a community staple, and still 100 percent Sheffield.

It’s always has been that, though Johnny wasn’t the first proprietor. Johnny’s dad owned the property and his uncle and brother Jimmy built the store and opened it up. “It was the last Sunday in March, 1967,” said Wendy, “Which was an Easter Sunday.” A photo of the store from the very early days is framed on a shelf just inside the door today, and also featured on a T-shirt!

Wendy is a local, raised in Somerset Landing, “right there where Ocean View Baptist Church is,” she told us. She began working in the store as teenager.

Not long after that Jimmy decided to move his family back to Moore County and after their father decided to parcel out the children’s inheritances while he was still alive, and Johnny ended up with the store.

After more than five decades in operation, what is different? “Well, it hasn’t changed much, but it’s changed a little bit. Of course we have better coolers, better gas,’ said Wendy, “And a little better bookkeeping.”

What’s the formula to more than five decades of success? “We’ve always tried to have hardware, fishing tackle, bait and of course fresh seafood and the gas.”

Sheffield’s backs up onto a canal, featuring easy access from the Intracoastal waterway, and it’s not uncommon to see the Marine Patrol or a Sheriff’s Department boat gassing up on the docks.

Another constant draw to Sheffield’s has been the fresh seafood, though its source has changed a little. “Back then my daddy and two of his friends used to catch everything we sold, the oysters the clams, the fish, the shrimp and all that stuff,” Wendy remembered. “Now we pretty much get it all from Holden Seafood.” That’s another long-time family owned and operated business, so it fits in perfectly.

And then there’s the welcoming, family atmosphere. Asked her favorite part of running Sheffield’s, Wendy doesn’t hesitate at all. “The people. Every summer it’s cool to see the people you haven’t seen since last year.”

“We’ve always had the gas on the dock,” Wendy said. “At one time we rented little fishing boats, little 14-foot fiberglass with a little 10-horse motor, then we got rid of them and Johnny got some pontoon boats and we rented those, but we finally got rid of those too. Insurance was just awful. And people don’t know how to drive, especially a big ol’ Pontoon boat.”

Try as she might, though, Wendy said she doesn’t have Johnny’s skill at remembering everyone’s name. “I’m the world’s worst with names. I have tried and tried and tried and I cannot remember the names. I recognize faces. But now, Johnny knew everybody’s name. As a matter of fact this one man had a house over here on the canal for several years and his name was ‘Sam from West Virginia’.

I remember that. But he sold his house and moved back to West Virginia. And then 10 years later, he came back and bought a lot on the waterway side and was building a house. He came by to see Johnny and he said Johnny was sitting in

that chair and looked up at him and said ‘Sam from West Virginia!’ He said I never would have thought he would remember my name.”

Sheffeild’s was and still is just that kind of place. Whether you’re a longtime resident (and then I really don’t need to tell you this), a newcomer, or a visitor, you too will feel at home at Sheffield’s. Stop in if you need some tackle, or bait, a frosty adult beverage, some snacks, or gas for your boat.

You’ll leave feeling like family.

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Community

Festival Of Trees

groups from Ocean Isle Beach and from Oak Island to the American Legion to St. Jude’s.

And it really is beautiful,” Hoffman said.

Museum of Coastal Carolina in Ocean Isle Beach Is All Spruced Up For The Holidays

Participants are also vying for the “Favorite Tree” award as voted on by museum guests. The competition looks pretty tight this year, with so many creative designs on display.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LISA STITES

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hristmas is the season of giving, and spending some time at the 4th Annual Festival of Trees at the Museum of Coastal Carolina is a great way to get started early. The event opened in November, and more than 20 trees were contributed this year, according to Jim Hoffman Executive Director of the Museum of Coastal Carolina.

“The festival also includes other holiday decor,” Hoffman said. “Children can decorate a tree with an ornament they make during their visit here. We sell ornaments and local art from a couple of trees, and guests can make contributions by picking a sand dollar from our sand dollar tree.

There’s also a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt for children to do on their way through the museum.

It’s an all around win — museum patrons can enjoy the creative designs and local charities benefit from money raised from the event. Trees are being auctioned off, starting at $100 bids. Each person, business, or group that decorated a tree picked a charity. Charities include Hope Harbor Home, veterans programs, first responders, and even the Museum itself.

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“As a non-profit organization, we are so proud that we can support so many other causes, from the sea turtle protection

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“It’s spectacular,” Hoffman said. “I’m impressed with the artistic ability from so many in our community. It’s also an opportunity, if you are new, to get to know the organizations that make this community what it is. And I’m not just talking about Ocean Isle Beach. We have organizations from Sunset Beach, Oak Island, even as far

away as Swansboro.”

To really get into the festival spirit, we asked a couple of the participants about their chosen charities and how they pick their theme.

Melissa Wilson, co-owner of Coastal Carolina Lighting, www.coastalcarolinalighting.com/

What is your selected charity, and why do you support this particular organization?

Our charity is our Veteran Christmas Lighting program. Every year, our company donates a full Christmas lighting package, with installation, to a local veteran. We do this because Christmas time should make people happy, and we know that Veterans go through so much in their lives, from their sacrifice during service to their lives afterward. I feel like many people forget about them and don’t take the time to express their appreciation for them. That’s why we have people nominate their neighbors, friends, family, etc. It’s not so much about financial need as it is that the Christmas lights are a way to hopefully brighten up their day and let them know how much people care.

How do you pick a theme for your tree? Do you change it from one year

to the next, or do you keep the same one?

ingful time to us. I have a young grandson and granddaughter that help a bit too.

I like things that are bold and bright. And I have way too much creative energy to stick to the same theme every year. For me, I go back to more classical Christmas and I find inspiration in everything around me.

What is your favorite thing about participating?

It’s hard to pick one favorite thing about participating. It’s special because of the connection I feel to my husband and the profession that he loved. I created the charity because being a real estate professional is a second career for me and I didn’t pursue it until after his passing, but he always told me I should be a realtor. I needed a way to make him part of my new journey so a portion of everything I earn in real estate is donated to this fund. It’s important to me to honor the dedication of our EMS, Fire, and First Responders and this tree allows me to do that. It’s also just simply beautiful to see the trees throughout the museum and the love that goes into each one.. my husband loved Christmas and adding new decorations! I just love the joy that this event brings!

Is decorating your tree a solo effort, or do you have a group participate?

It is a solo effort.

What is your favorite thing about participating?

I love being able to see so many other creative people and seeing how even similar themes can be executed so differently.

It’s funny, because many people like to comment about how they can tell I’m a professional decorator. But honestly, I just enjoy it so much that it does come naturally to me to grab an idea from Instagram or Pinterest and make it come to life in my own way.

Gina Gore, Broker/REALTOR with Coldwell Banker, Sea Coast Advantage What is your selected charity, and why do you support this particular organization?

My charity is the Specialized Rescue

Mark Gore Memorial Fund, established in the care of Grissettown Longwood Fire Department. The fund is in memory of my husband, Mark Gore who was the Director of Daily Operations for Brunswick County Emergency Services until his sudden passing in 2016. He had been with the system since the first six paramedics were hired in Brunswick county and was very instrumental in it’s growth over the years. Rescue operations were close to his heart so this fund helps pay for rescue equipment and in 2024 it will begin to offer a scholarship as well for Brunswick county high school students interested in a career in emergency services.

The Museum is open Thursdays through Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm, and the entry fee is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $8 for children ages 3 to 12 (free for children younger than 3). Memberships are also available, as are combo tickets for a show at Ingram Planetarium. Visit seandsky.org for more details.

How do you pick a theme for your tree? Do you change it from one year to the next, or do you keep the same one?

This will be my second year participating in the Festival of Trees, and I intend to incorporate the emergency services theme each year.

Is decorating your tree a solo effort, or do you have a group participate?

Myself and my two daughters decorate the tree and it’s such a meanshallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 7

Birthday Wishes

Community

Providing Joy To Families All Year Long STORY BY PATRICIA LANGER PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

D

uring the holiday season, so many of us become aware of the need to help others who are less fortunate. Children’s causes are especially prevalent in December, with reminders that tug at our heartstrings everywhere we go — Toys for Tots at the doctors’ office, giving trees at church, and gift donation tags at retail outlets.

There are so many great opportunities to help Santa fulfill all those Christmas wish lists. But many kids need our help for another big occasion that’s often overlooked, perhaps because it is one that occurs every day of the year. Sometimes, families struggling financially can’t afford to buy presents their child’s birthday. Thanks to Jill Leach, underprivileged kids in Brunswick County are never overlooked, but rather celebrated, with birthday gifts from her ministry on their own special day. Birthday Wishes Ministry is an organization that exists to help children, who may not have the opportunity otherwise, have a very happy birthday.

It’s heartwarming to know that we can bring a smile to a child’s face at Christmastime by dropping a few toys into a collection box or donating money to a holiday charity. Winding River resident Jill Leach couldn’t agree more. In fact, she and her husband did that kind of thing for many years.

“My husband and I have always adopted a needy family for Christmas, even before we moved to NC.”

VP Deb Edwards accepts a grant from the St. James Service Club

The Leaches, who both retired early from careers in the pharmaceutical industry, moved from Danbury, Connecticut to North Carolina about 12 years ago. Having vacationed for many years at Jill’s parents’ home in Calabash, they were, like so many of us, lulled south by the scenic coastal lifestyle.

A few years ago, Jill recounts, she was helping one particular family in Brunswick County purchase gifts for the kids at Christmastime, and was troubled when the young mother asked if she could hold one gift back. Her son’s birthday was coming up but she didn’t have enough money to pay her rent, so buying him birthday gifts was not an option. Touched by that moving encounter, Jill says she felt a calling from God to create the Birthday Wishes Ministry as a way to bring joy to children on their own special day.

“When we bless others, God takes care of our needs” Jill believes.

Jill founded Birthday Wishes Ministry (BWM) in 2021 with a desire “to provide birthday gifts to underprivileged children.” Today, she serves as president of the nonprofit, with good friend Deb Edwards serv-

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Jill Leach (Pres), Maria Schiaffo (volunteer), Judi Evans (volunteer), Deb Edwards (VP) at the Holden Beach Festival at the Sea

ing as vice president. A seven-member board of directors guides the organization’s growing mission, carried out by an army of kind-hearted volunteers who have a soft spot for children.

In the first year of operation, the grass roots organization was able to purchase gifts for 75 children, all identified through one elementary school. In 2022, Birthday Wishes gave gifts to 500 kids in nine Brunswick County schools. As the charity grew, the mission evolved “to support financially challenged families by providing educational birthday gifts to Brunswick County children.”

In July of 2023, BWM formed a partner-

ship with Brunswick Family Assistance (BFA) to broaden their reach and facilitate connections with families who receive financial help from the County for critical services.

BFA now gives Birthday Wishes vouchers to families who have a child between the ages of 5-12 with an upcoming birthday. The voucher can be redeemed with BWM volunteers who are on site monthly. Birthday gifts are specific to each age group, and the same gift is given to boys and girls. Each child receives some type of learning game that can be played alone or with others.

Going forward, the ministry expects to reach 800 children in 2024 through their affiliation with BFA. Although the ministry currently targets elementary and middle school children, Jill says the goal is to expand their reach to all infants through 14-year-olds registered with the Brunswick Family Assistance program. Alarmingly, that’s approximately 1,800 kids. For now, though, if a special need arises, BWM makes sure they accommodate it.

“No child will ever be turned down for a gift,” Jill states emphatically.

What started out as one woman’s generosity has developed into an organization that requires significant funding. Birthday Wishes Ministry works tirelessly to raise money through donations, grants, sponsorships, and fundraisers.

In 2022 BWM participated in the Holden Beach “Festival at the Sea,” selling raffle tickets for artwork donated by a local artist

and raising $2,000 for the ministry. In the spring of 2023 volunteers organized a highly successful fundraising event called the “Ladies Spring Tea Party.” Ticket sales, a silent auction, games and shopping at that gala generated $6,400 for Birthday Wishes!

In May of 2023, BWM opened a retail boutique space called Another Woman’s Treasures at Crossroads Gathering Place, on Long Beach Road in Oak Island. Sales have been strong and profits go straight to the charity.

In August of 2023, BWM received a $1,000 Neighborhood Grant from The Starbucks Foundation, in recognition of their impact in Brunswick County. The award supports grass-roots, community-led organizations that help uplift their neighbors.

Birthday Wishes has received additional grants from BEMC, Focus Broadband, and the St. James Service Club.

As word of the feel-good ministry spread and its reach expanded, the need for help became imperative. Today, there are about 50 Birthday Wishes volunteers, mainly residents of Winding River. They gather regularly to make homemade birthday cards for every child in the Birthday Wishes program and to wrap all those presents. Volunteers

Community

Volunteers gather to wrap birthday gifts

help with monthly gift distribution at the BFA facility in Bolivia, help with fundraising efforts, and help sort and deliver donations of inventory for the Oak Island boutique.

“We are always looking for more volunteers and they can be from anywhere,” says

Jill.

“There are many other ways to get involved, besides volunteering,” Jill continued. “You can donate money or become a sponsor, or you can donate slightly used ladies accessories for our retail boutique. You can also purchase gifts for kids by using the Amazon Birthday Wish List link on our website.

The gifts are delivered right to the agency.”

Birthday Wishes Ministry is a feel-good charity that provides a much-needed service every day of the year. The organization serves an important role in providing not just gifts, but hope and happiness to some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Children struggling through poverty deserve to feel special every day, and especially on their birthdays!

2023 Ladies Spring Tea Party

For more information about how you can help Birthday Wishes Ministry, visit www. birthdaywishesministry.org or contact Jill Leach by phone at -910-712-2356 or email at jleach@birthdaywishesministry.org.

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Inside Bagel Dock

Biz Profile Manager Byron Booth has been working at the restaurant for about a year, working his way up through the ranks. Daily operations start early at Bagel Dock, with bakers starting at about 3 am, or maybe even a bit earlier on the weekend. The dough is made, and set to proof, with plans to bake it the next day unless it’s so busy they need it earlier.

“The dough does a little better when it gets to slowly grow,” Booth explained.

Making new dough, proofing it, and pulling it out to bake is a constant cycle, he said.

But what makes these bagels different from those at the grocery store?

What Makes These Bagels So Good?

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LISA STITES

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ow do you like your bagel? With a schmear of cream cheese?

Toasted with butter? Or maybe as a sandwich? However you like your bagel, the owners and crew at Bagel Dock are proud to offer New York-quality bagels in all sorts of flavors. They aim to keep their customers satisfied, and they plan to expand to meet the needs of the County’s growth.

Bagel Dock owners are planning a location by the Publix planned for the Carolina Shores area, at the intersection of Calabash Road and U.S. 17. Future plans could also include a South Carolina location. The current and original location is in Calabash, 1162 River Road. Calabash is famous for its seafood restaurants, but Bagel Dock has been a staple in the restaurant scene there for years.

Brian Bonsignore and Christine Cheffo own the shop, with Brian concentrating on

the day-to-day operations and Christine handling the marketing and merchandise.

For Bonsignore, getting it right is what matters. They use an oven from Italy, which Bonsignore described as the “Cadillac” of ovens, and anytime her travels, he looks for new ingredients they can use at the restaurant. They use real honey and real Vermont maple syrup, for example, though the full list of ingredients is a closely-guarded secret.

“We’ll all taste test if we bring something

new in, “Bonsignore said. “We do blind taste testing. You always want to improve.

You don’t want to stay stagnant. You don’t want to fall into a rut. We always try to get better and better. That’s what we try to do every day.”

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Biz Profile

“It’s the freshness,” Booth said. “It always tastes best when it’s fresh.” The restaurant also uses an advanced water system that pulls out all the minerals and heavy chemicals through reverse osmosis, and then minerals are added to it. It’s all about providing a real New York bagel in Brunswick County.

Booth explained that while there is a recipe to follow, there’s a lot more that goes into making the dough come out just right.

The humidity, for example, can really affect the proofing process. “There’s a dramatic difference from winter to summer with how long they proof,” he said. He also said they use different amounts of water depending on the season or even the daily weather.

Once that dough hits the table, he said the

quicker they run through it, the more uniform the bagels look. Booth and Bonsignore stressed that quality control is important, and Booth said that they really pay attention to what the dough looks like and how it feels through every step.

“You wouldn’t want a pound cake to be like an angel food cake,” he said.

The restaurant caries all the popular flavors, such as Asiago, blueberry, cinnamon raison and the everything bagel. But they also have a French toast bagel, a ghost pepper bagel, a horseradish bagel, a gouda cheese bagel, and more. They generally carry approximately 30 kinds of bagels, with other flavors added in as limited-time specials. Cream cheese options include fruit flavors, scallion, olive and pimento, and raisin walnut, to name a few.

There are breakfast sandwiches, deli sandwiches and hot sandwiches, such as chicken parmigiana.

Certain flavors of bagels will sell out during the day, but if there are any leftover at the end of the day, they are donated to a local church.

The current owners bought Bagel dock just two years ago, and Bonsignore said he’s glad he has Booth to manage the place. Bonsignore was a career firefighter in New York, though, and said he knows a good bagel.

“I was in the FDNY my whole life. We started each shift with coffee and bagels. Working in these places, you know what a good bagel looks like. It’s getting back to basics,” he said of Bagel Dock’s process. And he also knows good pastries. When he and Cheffo were planning to buy Bagel Dock, Bonsignore knew just who to talk to about pastries.

“Billy the baker worked in New York for 35 years” Bonsignore said. “He worked in

the bakery right around the corner from me. I said we’re buying this place Billy, are you coming with me. Where else are you going to get a freshly made pastry.”

While the other bakers start earlier, Billy starts his day at about 5 am. The cooks and front end staff come in at 6 am, Booth explained. “All these moving parts — it’s a lot. But it’s rewarding,” he said.

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COMMUNITY

Home For The Holidays

to an unsustainable amount was the day the wheels of fortune began to roll my way. It was right after that fateful day that sent me into a bit of a financial panic that I made a phone call to Brunswick County Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat For Humanity Changes Lives

STORY CONTRIBUTED BY JULI NEWTON PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

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e’re Facebook friends with Juli Newton, and have watched her document her journey into a Habitat home with pictures and updates. What we noticed the most was her smile and her positive attitude. She was obviously willing to put in the work, but she seemed to do it so cheerfully. When we saw her pictures of the dedication ceremony, we reached out to her to see if she wanted to share her experience from a first-person point-of-view. She agreed immediately and sent us her article very quickly. Clearly her story was ready to be told, with a minimal amount of editing, we might add. Juli said this process really added to her whole journey, and we feel very proud to be a part of that. This is what community journalism is all about to us — connecting people and sharing stories.--Lisa Stites

By Juli Newton Oct 2023 I was born in Southport like my father and my grandmother before me. I have always loved Southport as they did too. Of course I didn’t realize until later in life how wonderful that small detail made my life. I couldn’t wait to leave once I graduated from high school! I thought it was too slow and boring perhaps. I stayed away for about seven years before I made my way back home the first time. My mother was always here for me when I came running back home, offering a place of refuge to regroup and get my feet back under me. After about 10 years, life circumstances took me away from Southport again. Over the course of nearly 20 years, I lived in Virginia and never

thought I would come back to Southport.

Life has a way of changing things up on us though, and in 2019 through a series of events, I found myself coming home again. Only this time, for the first time, my mother wasn’t here to greet me, as she had passed away some years before.

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I told them my story and how I didn’t know how I was going to make it on this increased rent and they set my feet on the path to homeownership. I never even dreamed that this could happen and yet here I am just over a year later about to move into my new “forever” home!

It was strange coming home at first. As with many other times in my life, I wasn’t able to say exactly why I felt compelled to come back and start from scratch. There were many moments when I wondered if I had made the right decisions. There we times I thought of giving up and going back to Virginia.

However, with a vast network of encouraging family members and friends, I persevered and made a home for myself.

I felt the hand of God had blessed me with a great job that made it possible for me to move out on my own after living with family members for just over a year. I quickly learned how much Southport had changed as I struggled to make ends meet on a monthly basis, living in what I considered to be one of the last affordable places to be found in the town where I grew up. I was amazed at the fact that my little fishing village of a hometown was now the land of million dollar homes and skyrocketing rents.

About three years passed and I was content, but life had different plans and the day my rent increased

Just so we are clear, there is a lot that goes into a Habitat Home. And no, they did not give it to me! I had to work hard over the past year putting in “Sweat Equity Hours” and keeping myself on a very tight budget. I worked closely with many people over the last 16 months. From the day I signed all the preliminary documents and provided all the necessary paperwork to the day I cut the ribbon at the dedication ceremony, the journey has been full of learning and challenging moments. I have grown as my house has been built.

What was the hardest part for me? Probably the patience this journey required. I have never been strong in that department, but this journey has taught me to trust the process and allow things to unfold. And I have been amazed, humbled, and in awe of just how amazing the unfolding has been.

My greatest lesson is that you just never know what life holds around the corner for you and those things that were meant to harm can indeed be turned into things that bring beauty and meaning to life.

COMMUNITY

Sea Notes Holiday Show Tickets Required For Annual Free Concert STORY CONTRIBUTED

S

ea Notes Choral Society kicks off its upcoming 50th anniversary with an extra special Christmas concert, A Quartet for Christmas, at Odell Williamson Auditorium on the campus of Brunswick Community College. The choral group will perform at 3 pm on Dec. 2 and 3.

All four of the group’s talented directors — Bob Marks, Dianne Hoffman, Marie Pierre Fletcher, and Cindy Sellers — will take the baton for a portion of the concert. Each director has chosen a beautiful set of Christmas music sure to put everyone in the festive holiday spirit. Margaret Smicklas will join the choir as accompanist.

Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce, 910-457-6964 Ricky Evans Gallery in Southport, 910457-1129 The Shoe Center, Villages at Brunswick Forest in Leland, 910-371-9881 Port City Java, Olde Waterford Way in Leland, 910-383-2429

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Business Feature

Heritage Farm Market Winter Is A Great Time To Eat Your Greens STORY BY LISA STITES PHOTOS BY LAUREN CLEMMONS

A

long with the turkey, mashed potatoes, and cookies on our holiday tables, we really should save room for vegetables.

Heritage Fresh Market in Supply has plenty to fill out your holiday spread, and it’s a great option for a little holiday shopping too.

For many years, the Clemmons family grew row crops on their Brunswick County farm, which means they dealt with larger corporations to sell their products. But beginning in 2019, they began growing food to sell right here in Brunswick County.

“Now we’re able to grow products to bring directly to the public. It’s great having that interaction and building those relationships,” Lauren Clemmons said. Lauren and husband Jody are part of the 4th generation family farm behind Heritage Fresh Market, 20 Sellers Street in Supply (off U.S. 17).

are full of fresh, locally grown produce. Heritage Fresh Market is too, but also offers seasonal produce throughout the year.

In the winter, shoppers can find an abundance of apples, beets, carrots, cabbage, celery, collard greens, herbs, kale, mustard greens, onions, pears, potatoes, pumpkin, rutabaga, sweet potatoes, turnips, and winter squash.

The Clemmons family had an open air stand initially to sell their first crop of strawberries in the spring of 2020. They opened the current market in November of that same year. “Seeing people enjoying what we’re growing is extremely rewarding,” Lauren said.

The family farm tradition is carried on through the people, but also in the Market building itself. According to the Market’s website, https://www.heritagefreshmarket.com/, materials from previous buildings on the site were incorporated into the beautiful market.

“The counter is made of reclaimed black walnut that was taken from the old barns and the

And winter is the perfect time for greens.

tin along the side of the counter came from one of the tobacco barns Waddell built,” the website reads.

And now the next generation is learning the ropes. The couple’s oldest, son Cole joined the farming team after earning a degree in Agriculture, like his father before him. Daughter Katie helps Lauren run the Market, and their youngest, Cori Lee, also helps out at the Market when she’s not in school.

Katie also lends her name to the homemade ice cream sold in The Market. They freeze fruit when it’s fresh so they can use it all year long, and they also offer seasonal flavors, like pumpkin pie ice cream.

Seasonal offerings are important, and wintertime is no exception. Many people know that the spring and summer farmers markets

shallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 14

“Collards are a big thing for us in the winter,” Lauren said, though mustard greens are her favorite. She said she prepares them simply, first starting off with rendering down some kind of meat, like bacon or ham. The greens are then cooked in the meat drippings.

There are plenty of fresh vegetables for everything from holiday meals to easy weeknight favorites, and if you don’t feel like cooking, prepared meals are available too, like soups, quiche, enchiladas, lasagna, pizzas, pot pies and casseroles. Cold storage options also include a variety of meats and pastas.

If there’s a foodie on your gift list this year, or if you want some new ideas for office gifts, the Market also carries gourmet popcorn, candy, and jarred items like salsas and apple butter.

“Heritage Fresh Mar-

ket offers a wide variety of fresh winter produce including collards, mustard greens, turnips, sweet potatoes, cabbage, pecans, and more! We have all you need to prepare fresh, seasonal meals that are certain to bring joy during your time around the dinner table,” Lauren said.

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Mulberry Maps

Business Feature

Turning Important Locations Into Artwork STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

L

ooking for something for the person who has everything? As we get older, it gets harder and harder to find the perfect gift that is meaningful and unique. Well, Amy Schmidt, environmental scientist, world traveler, and map maker, may have just the thing.

Asked to give an elevator pitch that explains what her Mulberry Maps can provide for someone, she was quick to answer, “Stuff to make somebody cry.”

Of all the gifts to hit the heartstrings, maybe maps aren’t the first to leap to mind, but you’ve not seen what Amy can do. “If you want to get someone a gift who you think doesn’t need anything, they’re very hard to shop for, let me make something that’ll make them cry. Let me make a map that is from their childhood home, or where their honeymoon was, or where they are now,” Amy said.

“Some folks have this special connection to places and no one’s ever told them ‘Hey I will make a map for that spot,’” she said.

“And it doesn’t have to be some antique, old fashioned map that that looks like its been set on fire and stomped on by a pirate. It can be really modern and really sleek and it can be as colorful or not colorful as you want it to be to match your home.”

One special map Amy made recently was for a woman who had a bone marrow replacement. Amy was able to map where the woman lived, where the bone marrow donor lived in Germany, and draw a little connection between the two as a representation that they are forever connected.

“It was jus a little gift, a little sentimental thing,” Amy said.

She’s made maps of the places couples met, of hiking trails that hold some special significance for a client, and the locations of people’s first home, or current vacation retreat. “I can work with a realtor and put someone’s vacation house on a map with their, or the house’s, name,” Amy explained. “That’s what I’ve been doing for a lot of folks over the summer.”

about a decade, and I was a Covid burnout. I started the LLC because during the day and up until this summer when I started selling things — you know, doing the fun stuff — I would work for engineering firms

and non-profits and you can use grey, black and red,” Amy said. “I’ve mapped all over, worked in Micronesia when I was in college, did all sorts of cool international projects because of all those connections

And if you aren’t a fan of the pirate-stomped antique look, Amy can make your map in any color you like. “I can color-match your fireplace if you want, or if you have a cute pillow and you love a color in that, I can match that color. Or you can choose from mine, because I think they look good,” she said.

Working in an endless variety of colors is a large part of what led to the creation of Mulberry Maps.

“I worked for other people beforehand for

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Business Feature I made then, but then I was like, ‘I’m really bored of this color palette.’ Engineering firms only let you use grey, black and red pretty much. So I was like, you know what?

I’m going to start having fun.

that two days ago. The data is everywhere.

Some guy hiked this trail near Machu Picchu in 2017 and took really good data. Even if it’s super remote, someone has probably collected that data. So it’s awesome.

“I have a plotter. It prints out basically wallpaper-sized paper. I just decided I’m going to start doing these,” she said.

“I have two terabytes of data. I’ve got streets and rivers and all for the whole country,” Amy said. “It’s the greatest compliment when people say ‘You did such a good job on mine, I want to give one as a gift.’ I can’t believe I’m doing that. I’m in your house now and before this I was doing stuff that was confidential, that was boring.

Now I’m doing things that mark important things for people.

When Amy’s best friend bought a house and moved in down the street, she made a map showing his new home. “I made him a housewarming gift and he was like, ‘My realtor’s obsessed with this.’ His realtor saw it and and said ‘You’ve gotta start selling these maps, not just making them for your best friend.’ And I said Ok, I’m going to do this,” Amy said. “I’ve been really thankful.

I’ve been having a blast with it. I get do creative things and I’ve expanded my color palette. And I get to map the beach or a national park or whatever it is, not just a paper plant or a natural gas pipeline.”

Though Amy and her husband live in Charlotte full time, her parents have had a home on Oak Island since 2016. “I like to joke that we’re off-season locals,” she said.

“With both of us working remotely, we get to come down for ‘local’s summer’ in the off-season, or if there’s something that needs to be fixed.”

The Oak Island connection led to a lot of work. “My big area is Oak Island. I do more Oak Island than anywhere else. It’s really, really fun and I love it,” Amy said. “I’ve had so much fun with this and and feel so bless-

ed that folks are like ‘The style that you’re doing, no one else is doing that and I want that. These Oak Island beach house owners are saying ‘Oh, we want one that says whatever beach house.’”

Mulberry Maps has found its own spot on Oak Island’s map at Crossroads Gathering Place, 128 Country Club Drive. Just head upstairs and you’ll find a selection of maps featuring cool geography on everything from framed paper to dish towels. But don’t let the selection in the shop limit you — Amy can map pretty much anywhere for you.

“I love North Carolina, I love this part of the state, I love making maps of North Carolina and I’m so appreciative to be able to be in Crossroads now and meet folks around here and feel that the things I make mean a lot to someone.”

“The really fun thing with GIS and with mapping is that you can map for anything,” Amy said. “Just in the last two weeks folks have said I need a map for Germany or I need a map for Macchu Picchu. I just did

It may even make someone cry.

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Art Beat

Beachy Christmas

Remembering the Shell Art of Donna Davis STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

I

n October, the St. James Artisans community suffered a sudden loss with the passing of beloved artist and friend Donna Davis. Her loss has been palpable. She was an amazing artist and a teacher, cheerleader, dear sister, and beautiful friend to everyone who met her. Her cheerful demeanor and genuine kindness are sorely missed.

This time of year, I especially miss seeing her shell Christmas trees displayed around the Artisans Gallery on Howe. It seemed fitting to re-print the Christmas Art Beat I wrote about her a few years ago.

After a lifetime of military life and constantly moving, Donna Davis is happy to have her toes in the sand here on the coast and her artwork covered in seashells. “My artwork began from a love of looking for and collecting seashells while walking on the beach,” she said. “I just kept collecting and collecting, and I ended up with way too many

seashells. I started creating things and then had to find a way to sell them because I was running out of room!”

Davis makes beautiful decorative pieces such as wreaths, cone-shaped trees, ornaments, and other framed pieces. “I make my art from local shells and shell pieces as well as shells I get from whole-

sale stores,” she said. “It starts with whatever seashells I happen to have at hand and then supplement with my

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Send high resolution photos to jef f@liveoakmediainc.com by december 11 to join the fun shallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 20

stash of other seashells. My process when I make seashell trees starts with a styrofoam cone.

Then I cover the bottom with cork, attach the base, and then start adding seashells (larger to smaller) from the bottom up to the top. I take into consideration color and shapes as I build the tree.

No matter what I’m making, it’s always like putting a puzzle together.”

As a Southern Connecticut State University graduate, Davis holds a physical and health education degree. Her artistic creativity really grew after she started working with special needs kids. “My last job before retiring was as a Special Education Teacher for 7th and 8th grade students with learning disabilities,” said Davis. “This is where my creativity really kicked in, as I needed to find several different ways to help my students learn and assess what they have learned. With the VA Standards of Learning assessments (state tests), many of my students qualified for alternative assessments. I

was determined to show the state that they had mastered the SOLs by creating assessments, and I found that I was actually very creative.

Many lessons and assessments involved me having to illustrate standards.”

Gathering inspiration from her beach finds is easy for Davis as she sees beauty even in the broken shells. “I get my inspiration from the beauty of the seashells, especially the broken ones,” she said. “In teaching my students with special needs, I focused on the students’ strengths rather than their disabilities. In doing so, there was always a positive outcome. With the seashells, rather than looking at the broken-

ness, I focus on the colors and shapes and want to show that in using them in my artwork. Walking the beach for hours provides lots of time to think about how I’d use a particular seashell in a piece of art,” she said. The biggest influences in her artwork are the availability of seashells and just what she feels like making at any particular time. “I prefer to just create rather than try to figure out a pattern.”

Davis’s favorite pieces she makes are her Oyster Shell Blossom and the Shell

Tree. “I created from the broken pieces of whelks and conchs that are shaped like a curly-q,” she said. “Both of these are very time-consuming to make because all of the seashells used are ones that I found on the beach.

These are my favorites partly because of the time spent with each piece and also because they are different from other pieces I’ve made. I take a long walk on the beach, look through shell piles, and watch for shells rolling up on the shore.”

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shallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 21

shallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 22

Community

Safe Plates Classes January Certification Schools Enrolling STORY CONTRIBUTED’

N

C Cooperative Extension in Brunswick County is offering the Safe Plates Food Safety Manager Class in person in 2024. This comprehensive course is appropriate for food service managers and supervisory staff in restaurants, hospitals, nursing homes, childcare facilities, and other food-handling establishments.

The upcoming class will be held three days on Monday, Jan. 22, Jan. 29 and Feb. 5 from 12:30 pm until 4:30 pm each day.

The classes will meet at the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce, 4433 Long Beach Road, Southport. The registration fee is $125 per person. This includes all instruction, materials and the certification exam. Participants are encouraged to bring their own snacks, and beverages.

Certification will be based on successful passing a written ANSI accredited examination. This certification satisfies the FDA Model Food Code requirement for a Person-in-Charge. Virtual training is also available. Those taking the virtual class can take the certification exam on Feb. 5 at 2:30 pm.

The class and training materials will be available in English. The exam is available in Spanish, Korean, Traditional Chinese and Modern Chinese. Requests for tests in a language other than English must be made by Jan. 17.

Check the NC Cooperative Extension, Brunswick County Center website for more details or contact Avery Ashley at Brunswick County Center of the N.C. Cooperative Extension, 910-253-2610.

Checks should be made out to Brunswick County Cooperative Extension and mailed to PO Box 109, Bolivia, NC 28422. Pre-registration is required. Seating is limited to the first 20 registered.

ABOUT N.C. COOPERATIVE EXTENSION N.C. Cooperative Extension is a strategic partnership of NC State University, N.C. A&T State University, USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and local governments statewide. Extension professionals in all 100 counties, and with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, connect millions of North Carolinians with research-based information and technology from the universities. Educational programs specialize in agriculture, food and nutrition, 4-H youth development, community development and the environment. Find your local center at www.ces.ncsu.edu/local-county-center.

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shallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 23

Community

Colonial Christmas

purchased at the gate the day of the event or in advance online at https:// friends-of-brunswick-townfort-anderson.square.site/

Holiday Events Coming To Brunswick Town

Once again, if you’ve not experienced a Christmas service in the ruins of the old church at Brunswick Town, make time for this event. It will be a highlight of your holiday season.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

T

wo December events at the Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson State Historic Site provide a chance to slow down and enjoy the holidays at an 18th-century pace and to see one of our county’s most beautiful properties dressed up in Christmas finery.

Head out to A Light in the Darkest Night, from 4-7 pm on Friday, Dec. 8 and experience Brunswick Town, and its historic St. Philips Church, as night falls and candles illuminate the property. Visitors will have the chance to experience a peaceful evening amongst the ruins of St. Philips Church as it is decorated in its holiday finest, with candlelight and greenery. The visitor center will be open so you can even do a little holiday shopping in the gift shop for that hard to buy for history buff. If you’ve not experienced Bruns-

wick Town at night before, this is a notto-be-missed opportunity. The event is free and great for all ages.

On Sunday, Dec. 10 from 4-7 pm, an 18th Century Christmas returns once again this holiday season to let visitors explore how the American colonists celebrated Christmas. During the program, you can enjoy 18th-century inspired refreshments in the visitor center, participate in traditional games, or try your hand at Moravian paper stars and other 18th-century crafts.

The highlight of the evening will be an authentic period candlelit service in the ruins of St. Philips Anglican Church. The service will begin at 5 pm and will conclude by 5:30 pm.

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BoB Marks Director

Dianne hoFFMan Director

sat December 2 3:00 pm sun December 3 3:00 pm Brunswick community college odell Williamson auditorium For seating assistance call oWa at 910 755-8513 at least one week in advance.

Friends of sea notes—www.sea-notes.com

Marie-Pierre Fletcher Director

cinDy sellers Director

F r e e t i c k e t s ava i l a B l e at these locations from oct. 15: (note: locations have changed) Southport-Oak Island Chamber, Southport 910-457-6964 Ricky Evans Gallery, Southport 910-457-1129 The Shoe Center Leland, Villages at Brunswick Forest 910-371-9881 Port City Java, Olde Waterford Way, Leland 910-383-2429 Scott's Farm and Family, Main St., Shallotte 910-755-6055 Odell Williamson Auditorium, Bolivia

Community

Holiday Open House Santa Visits Duke Energy Visitor Center STORY AND PHOTO BY JEFFREY STITES

L

ooking for something a little different, but still Christmas-y, to do this holiday season? How about touring the brand new Brunswick Energy and Education Center at Duke Energy Nuclear Plant and meeting Santa while you’re there?

The Education Center (8520 River Road in Southport) has been open by appointment only, but on Saturday, Dec. 2, in recognition of World Nuclear Energy Day, it will reopen to the public from 10 am to 1 pm. Visitors can explore the exhibit showing how nuclear energy works and what is behind the gates of the Southport facility.

And bring your camera to capture photos of the little ones visiting with Santa!

According to Duke Energy, Brunswick Nuclear Plant generates enough carbon-free electricity to power more than 1.5 million homes. The plant creates more than electricity; it also generates well-paying, long-term jobs and tax revenue for our schools and communities.

The Energy and Education Center at the Brunswick Nuclear Plant opened in January, replacing the original education center at the plant. Normally open by appointment only, the Center includes

approximately 3,000 square feet of exhibits and information on nuclear science, nuclear power generation and the history of the plant.

Learn more about the center at http:// www.duke-energy.com/energy-education.

World Nuclear Energy Day is held on Dec. 2 each year to commemorate the anniversary of the first nuclear chain reaction achieved by Enricho Fermi in 1942. Fifteen years later, on Dec. 2, 1957, the first commercial-sized reactor in Shippingport, Pennsylvania was started. The theme for 2023 is “power for the people.”

“The day is an opportunity to celebrate the many benefits of nuclear energy worldwide,: according to event organizers Duke Energy is participating by opening all four of our Nuclear Energy Education Centers for drop-in visitors on Dec. 2.

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At the following Dairy Queen locations: SHALLOTTE: 20 Naber Drive LONG BEACH: 5701 E. Oak Island Dr. SUPPLY: 106 Southport-Supply Rd., SE WILMINGTON: 5901 Oleander Drive shallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 25

History

Civil War Photography Brunswick Civil War Roundtable Meeting STORY CONTRIBUTED

I

n one of the most interesting and entertaining programs ever presented by the Brunswick Civil War Round Table, nationally renowned expert of Civil War photography Garry Adelman will take center stage for his dramatic presentation entitled, “Civil War Photography Extravaganza.” on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Everyone is welcome, and the visitor fee is $10, which can be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues.

Registration begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm.

The Civil War was brought to life through the lens of photography. It saw the real birth of photojournalism, technological innovations, and the first photos of dead American soldiers, bringing the realities of war into the homes of ordinary people. As summarized by Adelman, “photographs are a primary source that assist us in understanding the conflict.”

More than 3,000 individual photographers made war-related images, creat-

ing a visual record of the conflict that is unparalleled in human history. Photographers visited camps, hospitals, prisons, battlefields, and cities, all providing a powerful and poignant glimpse into the realities of the Civil War and the impact it had on public opinion.

Photographers documented nearly every major theater of military operations, from the first pictures of Fort Sumter in April, 1861, to images of Richmond’s ru-

shallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 26

ined cityscape in April, 1865. They captured the daily lives of soldiers, the aftermath of battles, and the devastating impact of the war on civilians. Despite the challenges, Civil War photographers had a profound impact on the American public. With all that has been written about the Civil War over the years, the phrase, “one picture is worth a thousand words,” clearly justifies the importance of Civil War photography.

On Dec. 5, Garry Adelman will captivate his audience with a fascinating photographic presentation covering all manner of Civil War events, people and places, and be sure to bust the most pervasive Civil War photography myths, answer your questions, and more!

The Round Table is honored to have Garry join this next meeting. He has lectured at hundreds of locations across the country including the National Archives, the Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian. He has appeared on the BBC, C-Span, American Heroes Channel, and the HISTORY channel where he was a chief consultant and talking head on the Emmy Award-winning show “Gettysburg” (2011), “Grant” (2020), and “Battles for America” (2022), among others. He is an award-winning author, co-author, or editor of 20 books and 50 Civil War

articles, as well as working full time as Chief Historian for the American Battlefield Trust. In addition, he is the vice president of the Center for Civil War Photography, and has been a Licensed Battlefield Guide at Gettysburg for 27 years.

For more information about the Tuesday, December 5 meeting, contact president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@ gmail.com, call him at 404-229-9425, or visit the website at Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com to learn more, become a member, renew your membership, and learn about member benefits. The group’s Facebook page also has additional information, news, and updates.

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CALENDAR

December

We’ve included events here that were scheduled at press time, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change. For programs offered through the Town of Leland, visit https://apm.activecommunities.com/ townofleland/ to register online or register in person at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

NOW THROUGH DEC 31

Festival of Trees — Museum of Coastal Carolina

The Museum hosts its annual Festival of Trees, with decorated Christmas trees from more than 20 organizations and groups. The trees are up for bid, and proceeds benefit the tree creators’ charity of choice. See the trees during regular open hours, Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm at the museum, 21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach. (See story on the Festival in this issue).

DEC 1

28th Annual Calabash Christmas

Visit with Santa and enjoy cookies, enjoy vocal and dance performances, including the West Brunswick High School Dance Team, watch the parade, and more! The parade lines up at 5, and starts off at Carter and Thomasboro Drive, goes along Beach Drive/Highway 179 and River Road (corner of Callahan’s of Calabash). Parking is available at the Calabash town park, 868 Persimmon Road SE.

DEC 2

Christmas Parade — Shallotte

The parade steps off at 10 am at Main Street/Hwy 130 Intersection and wraps up at the intersection of Main Street/ Smith Avenue. Take the family and friends and enjoy holiday floats, high school groups, classic cars, emergency vehicles, and much more.

DEC 2

Tree Lighting — Varnamtown

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus to light the tree! There will be music, hot cocoa, and more. The event starts at 5:30 pm, at Town Hall, 100 Varnamtown Road SW.

DEC 2-3

Sea Notes Christmas Concert

The group performs “A Quartet for Christmas,” with four conductors sharing the baton. The concerts are at 3 pm both days at Odell Williamson Auditorium on the campus of Brunswick Community College, 50 College Road, Bolivia. Admission is free, but tickets are required to ensure seating. (See story in this issue for ticket availability details.)

DEC 5

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

This month’s theme is “Civil War Photography Extravaganza.” Garry Adelman is a nationally renowned expert of Civil War photography, and will discuss the origins of photojournalism. The group meets at Hatch Auditorium at Fort Caswell; doors open at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Anyone can attend; the cost is $10 but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues.

DEC 6

Paddle for Presents

The 23rd Paddle for Presents sets off at 1 pm from the Rice Creek, 797 Gordon Lewis Road in Winnabow. Each participant is asked to bring an unwrapped toy valued at $35 or more and join the kayak outing. All toys will be donated to the Brunswick County Angel Tree program. Bring your own kayak, wear a festive hat and join the fun. A limited number of kayaks available for registered participants. For more information and to sign up, call 910-454-0607. The event is sponsored by The Adventure Kayak Company Inc. To learn more about the Angel Tree program, contact the Brunswick County Department of Social Services at 910-253-2384. The rain date is

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Don’t miss the Festival of Trees at the Museum of Coastal Carolina

Dec 7.

DEC 8

Wilmington Big Band — Leland Cultural Arts Center

The Wilmington Big Band comes across the river to perform in Leland, 7-9 pm at LCAC, 1212 Magnolia Village Way. Tickets are $15.

DEC 8

Historic Holidays — Maritime Museum Get a taste of history and the holidays when you join us for Historic Holidays. Staff and volunteers will be dressed out in period attire, and historic activities and take-home crafts will be available. This drop-in event is free and appropriate for all ages; noon to 4 pm

at the Museum, 204 E. Moore St., Southport.

DEC 8

A Light in the Darkest Night — Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson Stroll among the ruins of St. Philip’s church, decorated with holiday greenery and candlelight. There is no fee to attend, but the gift shop will be open for holiday shopping. The evening events are scheduled for 4-7 pm at the site, 8884 St. Philip’s RD SE, off N.C. 133 in Winnabow.

DEC 10

An 18th-Century Christmas Brunswick Town

Visitors can explore the Brunswick

Town/Ft. Anderson State Historic Site to see how the American colonists celebrated Christmas, 1-5:30 pm. During the program, enjoy 18th-century inspired refreshments in the visitor center, participate in traditional games, or try your hand at Moravian paper stars and other 18th-century crafts. An authentic period candlelit service in the ruins of St. Philips Anglican Church begins at 5 pm and will conclude by 5:30 pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the gate the day of the event or in advance online at https://friends-of-brunswick-townfort-anderson.square.site/.

The site is at 8884 St. Philip’s RD SE, off N.C. 133 in Winnabow.

DEC 9

Christmas Parade — Bolivia

This parade starts at the Government Complex, travels along Old Ocean Highway, and ends at the Bolivia Volunteer Fire Department’s new station for an open house (3848 Old Ocean Highway). The parade starts at 11 am.

DEC 10

Brunswick Bands Concert — Ft. Caswell

DEC 31

Noon Year’s Eve — Ocean Isle Beach

The Town and the Museum of Coastal Carolina team up for this all ages kid-friendly countdown at a time when we can all stay awake. The fun starts at 11 am at Town Center Park, 11 E. Second St. Crafts. Refreshments and a dance party lead up to a special event at noon.

JAN 2, 2024

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

“Civil War, Uninterrupted: Jefferson Davis, George Washington Rains, and Confederate Gunpowder Strategy.” George Rains was instrumental in providing Jefferson Davis’s army with gunpowder. This enabled the South to achieve early success at the Battle of Bull Run in 1861, building momentum and confidence in the South’s war effort.

It was referred to as the “Confederate gunpowder strategy,” a critical component of their war effort. Guest speaker: Ted Savas is an award-winning author, college professor, attorney, and publisher of a company specializing in military

and general history subjects. The group meets at Hatch Auditorium at Fort Caswell; doors open at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Anyone can attend; the cost is $10 but can be applied to $25 annual membership dues.

ONGOING EVENTS

Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach

The Museum is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, and the second Tuesday from 5 to 7 pm for Sandbar Lectures.

Ingram Planetarium

7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach

Doors open at 10:30 am Thursdays through Saturdays; dome shows start on the hour from 11 am to 3 pm. Laser shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 6 pm and 7 pm. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule, including special holiday shows.

NC Maritime Museums - Southport 204 E. Moore St.

Hours are 10 am to 4 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays. Sensory Saturdays (low light and quiet time in the museum)

are the first Saturday of the month, 10 am to noon. Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs. Sea-sons Snow Craft Bags are available Dec 10 to 31 or until sold out.

These virtual programs can be done from anywhere with something to cut with, something to attach, and decorating items. Bags come with supplies for four crafts and instructions on how to access video instructions and recorded story time. The kits are appropriate for ages 5 to 12 and adaptable to all abilities. Kits are $7 from the museum or $12 by mail. For more information or to order a kit, contact Curator of Education Katy Menne at (910) 477-5153 or katy.menne@ncdcr.gov or go to ncmaritimemuseumsouthport.com/events.

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site 8884 St. Philip’s Rd. SE, Winnabow

There is plenty to do and see, with a museum, historic ruins, great information on the site’s history, and some of the most beautiful riverfront property in the County. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday.

Don’t see your event or location listed?

Try as we might, we don’t catch everything, so to be sure to be included send your events to lisa@ southportmag.com before the 20th of each month!

Thank you!

Continue your holiday merry-making by joining local musicians for a fun afternoon of festive music featuring the Big Band, Wind Ensemble, Brass Choir and Saxophone Quartet. Holiday attire and spirit are welcome as the bands help celebrate the holiday season with our community! The concert is at 3 pm at Hatch Auditorium at Ft. Caswell, (the east end of Caswell Beach).

DEC 12

Author Signing — Silver Coast Winery

Ariel Lawhon will be on hand to sign hard copies of her book, “Frozen River.”

Tickets are $45 and include the book, wine, and light hors d’oeuvres. The events starts at 5:30 pm at the Winery, 6680 Barbeque Road, Ocean Isle Beach.

The annual candlelight service at St. Philip’s Church in Brunswick Town is something special

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Looking for something to do besides going to the beach? Here you’ll find lots of fun for the entire family. Be sure to check before you go as hours may change and some attractions may be seasonal

Attractions INGRAM PLANETARIUM

7625 High Market Street Sunset Beach (mainland) https://museumplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/ Enjoy musical laser shows and learn more about the night sky; check website for schedule and tickets. Hands-on activities and interactive displays are available in the Paul Dennis Science Center, and admission to the Center is free.

MUSEUM OF COASTAL CAROLINA 21 E. 2nd St. Ocean Isle Beach https://museumplanetarium.org/

Learn more about our coastal environment, with a live touch tank, saltwater aquariums, interactive exhibits, lectures and family programs. The Museum is open 10 am to 4 pm Thursday

Attractions Guide

through Saturday, and 5-7 pm on the second Tuesday for sandbar lectures.

walk, gazebos at each end and beautiful views of the Shallotte River.

SHALLOTTE RIVER SWAMP PARK

OLD BRIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

5550 Watts Road SW Ocean Isle Beach (mainland) https://www.shallotteriverswamppark. com/ This adventure park features zip line tours, an aerial park, guided ATV tours and eco-tours on a swamp boat.

PLANET FUN/STARZ GRILL 349 Whiteville Road Shallotte https://planetfuncenter.com/

This family entertainment center offers arcade games, laser tag, and bowling (including cosmic bowling on weekends), many TVs for watching all the games, and a restaurant.

SHALLOTTE RIVERWALK

Gazebos at 159 Cheers St. and 146 Wall St. The Riverwalk is open from dawn to dusk, and features a quarter mile board-

109 Shoreline Drive West Sunset Beach (mainland) http://www.theoldbridge.org/

The old swing bridge that used to connect Sunset Beach to the mainland has been preserved as a museum. The Museum is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 am to 2 pm, with stories about the Sunset Beach Swing Bridge tender house, local history, and more.

STUMP HILL FARMS

2030 Ash-Little River Road NW Ash https://www.stumphillfarms.com/

The farm is open on Saturdays in April and October, and by appointment or for special events other times of year, with hay rides, games for children, and educational opportunities covering bee pollination and local crops.

GRAYCE WYNDS FARM AND THE WILD HORSE RESERVE AT GRAYCE WYNDS 2450 Grayce Wynds Drive Supply, NC 28462

Visit the farm, take a guided tour, or participate in special events. Check https://www.graycewyndsfarm.com/ for tours available and events.

SILVERY COAST WINERY

6680 Barbeque Road Ocean Isle Beach https://silvercoastwinery.com/

Winery tours, tastings, and shop for wine accessories and gifts; event rental space also available.

TREASURE ISLAND MINIATURE GOLF 3445 Holden Beach Rd. Holden Beach (910) 842-4878

Parks

There are so many great spots to get out and enjoy this beautiful county. We’ve listed a few of the main parks here, but keep an eye out for smaller pocket parks and water access areas.

HOLDEN BEACH PAVILION AND BRIDGEVIEW PARK

The Pavilion is tucked in next to the west side of the bridge on the island, and Bridgeview Park is a couple blocks down the Intracoastal Waterway, at Davis Street.

TOWN CENTER PARK 11 E. Second St. Ocean Isle Beach

This town park has an amphitheater, interactive fountain, bocce ball court, playground, and plenty of bike parking.

SHALLOTTE PARK 5550 Main St.

Ball fields, tennis courts, basketball court, a playground, picnic shelters and a dog park.

MULBERRY STREET PARK 123 Mulberry Street Shallotte

Picnic shelters, an amphitheater, and home to Shallotte’s outdoor markets

SUNSET BEACH TOWN PARK

Sunset Boulevard North (mainland)

OCEAN ISLE MINI GOLF Go Under The Sea at the Museum of Coastal Carolina in Ocean Isle Beach

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6391 Beach Drive SW Ocean Isle Beach http://oceanisleminigolf.com

Stroll through five acres of live oaks along the Intracoastal Waterway, sit a spell on a bench, do some fishing or visit the Veterans Memorial.

OCEAN ISLE BEACH PARK 6483 Old Georgetown Road

The Park features 2 playgrounds, eight tennis courts, four pickleball courts, baseball and softball fields, a dog park, basketball courts, an amphitheater, picnic shelter and a multipurpose field for soccer/football with walking trail and fitness stations.

WACCAMAW PARK

5855 Waccamaw School Road NW, Ash This park features ball fields, basketball court, tennis courts, playground, bocce ball and a nine-hole disc golf course.

Fishing Piers SUNSET BEACH FISHING PIER 101 W. Main St. Sunset Beach http://sunsetbeachpier.com/

OCEAN ISLE BEACH PIER 1 W. First St. Ocean Isle Beach https://oibpier.com/

Fishing Charters Boat Tours

https://www.ccattours.com/

SALT FEVER GUIDE SERVICE

21 Causeway Drive Ocean Isle Beach https://www.saltfeverguideservice. com/

HURRICANE FLEET - LEAVES FROM THE CALABASH WATERFRONT https://hurricanefleet.com/

CALABASH FISHING FLEET

9945 Nance St. Calabash https://calabashfishingfleet.com/

HOLDEN BEACH FISHING

https://www.holdenbeachfishing.com/

HOLDEN BEACH WATERSPORTS

3325 Old Ferry Road SW Holden Beach https://www.holdenbeachwatersports. com/index.html

BLUE PLANET WATERSPORTS

7156 Beach Drive Ocean Isle Beach https://blueplanetwatersports.com/

HOLDEN BEACH JET SKI RENTALS

Boat Rentals

1305 Cedar Landing Road SW Supply https://www.holdenbeachjetski.com

OCEAN ISLE FISHING CENTER

SORTA SALTY FISHING CHARTERS

65 Causeway Drive Ocean Isle Beach https://www.oifc.com/

TOUR H2O

Locations in Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and Southport https://tourh2o.com/

CAROLINAS COASTAL ADVENTURE TOURS 2000 Sommerset Road SW Ocean Isle Beach (mainland)

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Visit https://cape-fear-box.square.site to order a quarterly subscription Cape Fear Box.

Holden Beach https://sortasalty.com

OLLIE RAJA CHARTERS

3238 Pompano St. SW Holden Beach/Oak Island https://holdenbeachfishingcharters. com/

Available at: THE PAINTED MERMAID Handcrafted Pottery

817 N Howe Street, Southport

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SOUTHPORT, NC • BREVARD, NC • FLETCHER, NC • NORTHEAST, MD • BLUEEARTHWORKS.ETSY.COM shallottemag.com /December /December 2023/ 2023/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 31

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