January 2026 Southport Magazine

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 1

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FROM THE PUBLISHERS

his year, more of you sent us photos of your pets than ever before, and that makes us happy. I think that we can learn a lot from our pets. Copper the News Hound reminds me to be thankful for loved ones. Whenever we walk in the door, whether we’ve been gone all day or just walked out to check the mail, he wags and bounces around in joy at seeing his person again. We walk about the same route most days, but Cooper never gets bored. His super-powered sniffer always finds new things to sniff, he sees (and sometimes tries to chase) every squirrel and bird, he’s thrilled to meet other dogs or people on our walks, and he takes the time to greet each one. He reminds me that there’s untold amounts of interesting and joyful things out there in the world if we just pay the attention required to see them. He knows the simple value of a snuggly nap, of treats no matter how small, of toys no matter how tattered and torn. Small things can and do mean a lot, and my life is better when I remember that. I know from your emails that your own pets make your lives richer, and we can’t thank you enough for sharing them with us and with our readers. Happy New Year, and wag lots!— Jeffrey

STAFF

EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jeffrey Stites

Carla Edstrom Patty Langer Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny Janet Fortney Dana Jordan Lisa P. Stites Jeffrey Stites

editor@southportmag.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Lisa P. Stites lisa@southportmag.com

PHOTOGRAPHER LEAD DESIGNER Liz Brinker

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

910-471-7741 Kris Beasley

PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461

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Jeffrey Stites

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Biz Q&A at this work?

Photographing Our Pets

Even if I know that a dog has a history of not being well-behaved, I’m never in fear of them.

And I think because I don’t show fear and I’m expecting that we’re going to be friends, it ends up that way every time. I worked with a dog recently and the owner was like, “She’s very protective of me and she will growl at you.” Then she got the dog out of the car and I walked up and I grabbed a little treat out of my fanny pack and I said, well, hello, nice to meet you. And I gave her the treat.

I didn’t look at her, didn’t pay her any attention.

I started talking to her mom and then I would just give her another treat. That dog was my best friend! And [the client] was like, “I can’t believe this is happening.” I just try not to be intimidating. I give them zero reason not to like me. And the treats help!

Kristi Dully On Finding The Soul Of Pets

STORY BY JANET FORTNEY, PHOTOS BY KRISTI DULLY AND JANET FORTNEY

W

e recently sat down with local pet photographer Kristi Dully to discuss dog clothes, the beauty of being authentic, and her secrets to getting great pet photos.

So, as a pet photographer, what is your official title?

I’m just the photographer. I want to be invited into people’s homes, into their lives to be with their children and pets. I just want to be your friend. That’s why [my business name] is just “Kristi,” because I want everybody to just know me as Kristi. I don’t want it to be business as usual all the time. I just want it to be relaxed.

Does that seem to put most of your clients at ease? I’m sure people are often a bit stiff or nervous.

First, I always do a “discovery call” when I have new clients. On my website, you can fill out a little form that gives me your name and your phone number and what you’d like to do. Why is now a good time for you to have pictures taken?

What are you celebrating? What are you documenting? Then I call them and we have a chat.

I want them to know that it’s supposed to be a fun time, a relaxed time. And that way I can get to know them a little bit. I can understand their family dynamic. I can get information about their children or their pets. There are dynamics every which way you go. And it’s not a cookie-cutter business.

How did you get started in

photography?

It started as a hobby about 20 years ago, when we lived in Virginia, and it quickly became that I started doing pictures of friends here and there.

And then the word got out [and other people] were like, “Oh, will you take my picture? Oh, they had such a great time with you; I want you to take our pictures.” I quickly built a rapport within the community and started a business within four or five years. Then we moved to New Jersey and I opened up a home studio in our basement and I focused on children and pets only.

What brought you to Southport?

A few years ago, I was planning a family vacation and hoping to go to the Outer Banks, but everything there had already been booked up.

So, I started moving my way up and down the coast to try and find a place, and I found a place on Oak island. [While we were on Oak Island], my husband Paul said, there’s a place up the street, a couple of places around here we should look at while we’re here. My husband and I had been traveling [scoping out potential places for our retirement home], going to the East Coast and West Coast of Florida. We’d lived in Georgia.

We’d been in South Carolina. And we looked at six communities [in Brunswick County], we just drove through, and I found one that I fell in love with.

So, this is “retirement”?

Well, we were here for about a year and a half, and I was like, I can’t anymore. I can’t be retired.

I’m not ready. And Paul said, “Well, it could take a long time for you to get a client base back.

What are you going to do?” And I said I’m going to do what I love…take pictures of pets and children. I’m going to open a studio. He was [concerned because I didn’t] know anyone here. But I said, I’ll meet them, right? And so far, I have!

Would you say that your business’ relatively quick success is reflective of this area?

Most of my clients are from Southport and Oak Island and they are very open and welcoming. That’s similar to how I was raised [in Chester, Va.]: open doors, open arms to everybody. Lots and lots of friends and acquaintances because everybody talks to and is friendly with everybody, so you meet everybody!

Do you have pets? If so, I bet they’re

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

How about challenging experiences?

well-photographed!

I have two golden retrievers. Sadie is eight; Silas is three. Sadie is very treat-motivated. She will do anything I ask her to do as long as there is a treat involved. So she gets her picture taken often. Silas is as wild as they come! He can’t pay attention to anything for longer than 10 seconds.

That’s the good thing about having dogs that have two different personalities. Most dogs are one or the other. People call me and say, “You [might not be able to] get any pictures of my dog [because] they’re crazy.” And then I get [the shots] and they’re like, “How did you do that!?”

Yeah, I have practice!

Okay, so here’s the important question! What are your dog whisperer secrets to getting a good dog photo?

First and foremost, I don’t ask them to do anything immediately. We become friends first with treats, specifically freeze-dried beef liver treats. It’s different, tasty to them. I tell people, we schedule a session for your dog and we will be just sitting here longer than I will be taking pictures. Because I need your dog to be comfortable before I ask them to do anything at all for me. When they come in, I kind of ignore them.

[The client and I] talk and the dog is just in the space observing. And every now and then I’m giving them a treat. And then [the dog’s] like, “Oh, I like her!” And then I’ll get up and say to the dog, hey, come over here. You want to sit?

Do you want to lay down? I have to coax them into doing what I want them to do. And eventually they will do it and I can take the picture. It’s always fun. It’s patience and it’s always interesting, especially when we have multiples, but that’s fine, too. I love it!

Wow, amazing! What other aspects of your personality, in addition to patience, do you think make you good

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Let’s see...I have a repeat client with three dogs. She just came in last week and we were trying to get all three dogs together. That is very difficult. She has a Chihuahua [named Willow] and two Boston terriers (Lucy and Ruby]. It’s extremely difficult to get [a photo with] all ears up.

Because dogs will sit there fine with their ears down because they’re scared and they don’t know what they’re doing and they don’t want to be in this situation. But to get the ears up – all three at the same time – and looking at me all three at the same time is extremely difficult. And they wouldn’t sit still. So I was like, let’s put them on top of a box. And then I had [the client] sit behind the box and hold their butts. And then later I digitally edited her out. And then I did a whole [digital] dog swap. I had one picture where two of the dogs were looking at me with their ears up and another picture where the third dog was looking at me with his ears up, but the other two weren’t, so I took that dog and moved it into the other photo. I’m kind of a perfectionist, so I don’t

Biz Q&A like to deliver anything other than a really good picture. I will spend the hours it takes to make it right just for the one [photo]. She just wanted one picture of all three, so we made work.

have a cat one time that we put a dog sweater on and it would just mellow out completely. Just the feeling of having a little bit of compression on them, it really calms them down. So I’m all for dog clothes and I think they’re cute.

What are the best ways that a client can prep their pets for a photo session?

I always tell them not to have high expectations of their dog’s behavior. They’re going to a new place.They think they’re going to the vet – honestly, that’s what they think! They are nervous and anxious, but don’t be upset with them for that because it’s absolutely normal. And a lot of people feel pressure for their dog to be on their best behavior when they’re introducing them to somebody new or, in my case, to a pet photographer. And I just want them to know that there’s no expectation on my part. Just come as you are and be totally relaxed because I will meet you where you are and there is no expectation from me that your dog be on their best behavior, that they remain calm, that they don’t pee on my floor. And I tell them that if they have an anxious dog or a driven dog, take them for a walk before you come. Even if we’re going out on the beach, take them for a walk or a run because once they get that adrenaline flowing, they can calm down and pay attention better. It tires them out and they’ve gotten all the smells out and they can relax a little bit more.

On another note, how do you feel

What is the most exotic or unusual animal you’ve ever photographed?

I’ve had Ollie the parrot in the studio a couple of times. And I’m going to have him back because I’m learning how to photograph a flying bird. I can get him sitting still, but we want to get him flying. And that has been a challenge. As fast as their wings go to try and get the lighting and the shutter...it’s very difficult, but I’m determined to do it.

Anything else we should know about “Kristi”?

about dog clothes? They’ve gotten pretty popular…

Totally fine. I think it’s great. Sometimes wearing clothes calms the dog. And even cats. I did

I keep [photo sessions] interesting and quick and concise. I will get the standard poses [people want], but I really like the movement, like taking casual pictures of children playing. Because if you have a [young] child, and you say, all right, I need you to stand there...Okay, let me fix your hair. Okay, put your hand in your pocket.

Now turn your head this way and smile. [With] children, 15 minutes is plenty of time for them to spend in front of the camera. You get into an hour, they are crying.They hate it. They hate you.

They hate everybody. They don’t want to participate. They’re ornery. They are on purpose not

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

doing what you tell them to do. So I would rather them not be perfectly posed. I would rather them be in their element being who they are.

And I take that picture, [focus on their] personality and try to remember what this is supposed to be about. Be wild, be free, and let me capture that.

Yes, I agree, that is the most valuable thing you can capture.

I try to explain that to parents – mothers especially because they’re so critical of themselves in pictures. I could Photoshop you and make you look like a supermodel. I could, but I won’t because that’s not who your children know. Your children see you for who you are. And that’s what I want to capture so that they have that forever. Look, I’m going to get teary! I just get so emotional about it, but I want them to have you – not fake you. I love children and animals so much because they’re so authentic. They give you and show you exactly who they are…and that’s beautiful. I do what I do because I love being able to give people a picture of themselves and their animals being who they are.

To talk with Kristi about scheduling pet and family photo sessions, call her at 804-647-6699 or go to her website: www.kristisouthport.com/.

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Biz Q&A

The Photo District

home. I fall in love with them all the time.

But my job is to help them find their homes, and with limited space at my own home, I focus on giving each dog the best chance to find theirs. We have been talking about starting to foster soon, so I know that day is coming.

Helping Rescue Pets Find A New Home STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

W

hen we did a story a few months ago on Paw’s Place Dog Rescue, they supplied us with a few photos of their pets up for adoption. They told me to attribute them to “The Photo District,” and I found out that this was a woman who took all their adoptable dog photos for social media and the website. The photos are terrific, and really make the dogs look like they would like nothing more than to come home with YOU. I just had to learn more about this, so I reached out to out to Bre Burge of The Photo District to find out what she does to make these photos so wonderful.

Can you explain what The Photo District offers?

The Photo District is a pet-focused photography studio in Wilmington, NC that specializes in portraits of pets and the people who love them. I offer both studio and outdoor sessions and specialize in custom artwork designed for homes. I also partner with local rescues to photograph adoptable pets and support community adoption efforts.

What is your history before founding The Photo District?

Before photography, I worked in data analytics and completed a master’s program where I first started exploring entrepreneurship in the animal world. When I moved back to Wilmington, I wanted to reconnect with the community and do something meaningful. Helping local shelters by photographing their animals was the beginning of everything.

What led you to rescue photography?

It started as a simple desire to help.

I began volunteering for a local rescue and photographed a few dogs to help them get noticed online. Seeing the impact those images had and watching dogs who were overlooked suddenly get adoption inquiries made me realize how powerful photography could be for animals who need a chance. It quickly became a mission instead of a hobby.

What is the Seen + Saved Initiative and how can people and businesses help?

Seen + Saved is my ongoing effort to photograph as many shelter pets as possible and give them the visibility they deserve. Every image helps make them seen, and every adoption makes them saved. The initiative is something I have built entirely on my own time and my own dime, and I am now looking for sponsors to help grow it even further.

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

How does the perfect photo help a pet get adopted?

A good photo is often the very first impression a potential adopter has. When pets are at the shelter, they can seem nervous, shy, or excitable, but they just need a chance. The right photo gives people a glimpse of who they really are and helps them fall in love before that first in-person meeting. It can make someone stop scrolling, read their story, and start to envision them in their own lives.

Bre Burge, owner of The Photo District

People and businesses can help by: Sponsoring adoption photos Sharing the images online Covering the cost of a dog’s adoption session Donating to keep the program running year-round Every bit of support helps another pet get noticed.

How do you not take home all the dogs?

I actually did take one home. I met him at one of the first sessions I ever photographed.

He wanted nothing to do with photos and just wanted to cuddle on me the whole time.

Now it is two years later and he is currently curled up by my feet.

It is still incredibly hard not to bring more

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How is photographing pets different from photographing people?

Pets do not understand the concept of a photoshoot, so I start by acknowledging where they are and using whatever motivates them, whether it is treats, toys, or squeakers. The goal is to capture their personality and the love they share with their people.

How should a client prepare for a shoot with you?

Part of my process includes a call beforehand to discuss what clients are looking for and how to prepare for the shoot.

During that call, we talk about things like giving pets a quick walk to burn off energy, bringing their favorite treats, toys, or anything that shows their personality, and doing a little grooming or brushing beforehand. Most importantly, I remind clients not to worry about perfection.

The best photos come from relaxed pets and excited humans.

What’s the trick to capturing an animal’s personality?

The trick to capturing an animal’s personality is letting them be themselves and finding what motivates them. Once the people are in the photos, it is about observing their interactions, responding to genuine moments, and capturing the connection they share with their pets.

Are some breeds easier or harder to photograph?

It is less about breed and more about the individual animal. Some dogs are naturally confident, while others are nervous or easily distracted. My job is to adapt to what each animal needs, whether that is time, treats, squeakers, or a quiet space. That said, I do find pit bulls are often the most eager to please, and hounds can be the most stubborn.

Any tips for people taking photos of pets at home?

When taking photos of pets at home, use natural light whenever you can and get on the pet’s eye level. Keep sessions short and use treats to guide their attention, not force it. Silly noises can also be incredibly helpful. When I start a session, I always say, “Pets do not judge me for my weird noises, so please do not either.”

What’s in the future for you and The Photo District?

Looking ahead, I am focused on growing the adoption work through Seen + Saved, turning each session into beautiful, lasting artwork for clients using the best products I have sourced, and incorporating pet-focused adventure sessions next year that highlight some of the fun activities our area offers.

What else would you like our readers to know?

Many times people reach out and tell me they have never had professional photos taken before. These sessions are a reminder that family photos are for everyone, not just those with partners or children, and that pets are very much a part of our lives and deserve to be celebrated.

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Community ous that she wasn’t really aware of what was going on. So this dog kept wanting to go say hi to her. They’re intuitive. I know that they are. This dog wanted to go say hi, and she’s constantly kind of pulling me that way,” she recalled. A nurse told Bridget that the lady wouldn’t speak to them, so she took Penny Jane over in her stroller. Using the stroller makes it easier for people to reach Penny Jane without having to bend over.

Seaside Therapy Dogs Bringing Furry Joy To The Community STORY BY LISA STITES

B

ridget Wolf regularly takes her certified therapy dogs to an assisted living facility in Brunswick County to visit with the residents there, and while the dogs bring comfort and joy to the people there, she says it’s something that she looks forward to every week herself.

“I feel like it’s a blanket wrapped around me. It gives me that much comfort,” she said.

Wolf is the founder of Seaside Therapy Dogs, a Brunswick County group of certified therapy dogs and their human counterparts. Each dog works with one person, and dogs are certified through a national organization. When the dogs work though that national organization, though, it’s individually. Wolf said she was looking for a way the teams could work together as a group, and formed Seaside Therapy Dogs approximately two years ago.

One of their first group events was visiting a youth home with nine dogs, and the visit was well received.

“The kids just were so thankful. It’s heal-

“So I finally went over there, and I just stood by the lady. And soon, the lady kind of lifted up her hand, and she just started to stroke the dog. Then, all of a sudden, she started talking about her life, and she hadn’t spoken for months.

So that’s the kind of healing power these guys have. You know, I truly believe that they are incredible beings, and I think that they’re the best thing that God gave us,” Bridget said.

ing, it’s therapy. It brings them some joy, you know?”

The dogs also regularly visit hospitals and libraries, and they have started doing parades. Many of the dogs also work with the national organization and make visits at airports, helping people deal with anxious situations such as delayed flights or comforting nervous fliers. Bridget also sees potential for dogs to work with funeral homes, and maybe even work with first responders during large-scale events or disasters.

There are more than 20 teams currently involved with the Seaside group, which is based in the Calabash area, but there is room for more. Bridget hopes to do more community outreach and really grow the organization. “We are very active. We really try to get out there and do some good stuff,” she said.

But in the meantime, for Bridget, it’s working with the assisted living facility that pulls at her heartstrings. Bridget has two therapy dogs — Yorkshire Terrier Penny Jane and Fiona, a deaf Labrador.

dents,” she said.

During another visit to an assisted living facility with memory care patients, Bridget said there were about 30 people in a circle, ready for the visit. She was working with another group, training, and there were four dogs with them that day.

“We kind of went by and said hi to everybody, and there was this lady that just wasn’t awake. She was kind of in her chair, looking down, and, you know, it was obvi-

“The assisted living has changed my life, because at the airport it’s people that come through that I never probably see again — you know, kids at night might be scared or need a distraction. The assisted living that I primarily go to, I’ve gotten to know them.

They’re like family to me now,” She said the feedback she gets about the visits is that she and her dogs are welcomed like family too, like the patients feel like they’re not forgotten anymore. “I’ve come to know them, and I’ve come to understand that I’m also aging, right, and that it’s important.

Some of these people don’t have anybody come see them. And they’re just in their room, you know? So to me, there’s such a need and it’s beneficial to everybody, to the dogs, to their handlers, and to the resiCelebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

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Dogs hey have so many abilities with detection for diabetes, seizures, bombs and drugs. They’re also very friendly and often just want to be the life of the party, she said.

Penny Jane is one of those dogs. She is curious, friendly and loving. And when she has had enough stimulation, she lies down in her stroller for a rest.

“She really has a lot of stamina. I do airport visits maybe two hours at a time, but

Community The requirements are pretty basic so that people and the dogs are safe.

want to make sure everybody’s safe.”

Besides training her own dogs, Wolf evaluates dogs, trains dogs, and tests them for certification.

While a minimum number of visits may be required with some organizations, with Seaside, teams can decide how much they want to participate.

Dogs have to be the right fit for this kind of work, and when people ask her if they can get involved with their dog, Bridget says that it’s really up to the dog.

“Group events are probably once every month and a half or so, maybe once every two months. If you want to come great, if you don’t, there’s no requirement,” she said.

“If you have a dog that absolutely loves people, wonderful. You have a good start,” she said. She then finds out more about the dog’s manners, like if the dog jumps on people, which wouldn’t work for a dog dealing with elderly people or children. then when she’s out, she’s out,” she said.

“And then she just falls asleep, and it’s time to go. When you’re done, she’s emotionally exhausted. It’s exhausting for me too because in that environment, you have so much going on, and there are always safety issues. We’re always really conscious about who is around us. If there’s a child coming up, running, things like that, because we

“But you can always train the behavior,” Bridget said. “As long as they’re super friendly, you can train the behavior for the most part. They have to be able to get along with other dogs. They have to keep three to four feet apart, but they have to be able to be in the presence of other dogs and not overreact.

“So if your dog is socialized, that’s not a

“With [Penny Jane], she goes about three times a month with my lab that I’m training, who goes probably three times a week. We’re always at the assisted living,” she said.

big deal. If your dog hasn’t been socialized, it can become a problem. So they have to be friendly, somewhat socialized, learn some manners. walk nicely on a leash…,” she explained.

“I mean, somebody that’s upset, they can just pet on these dogs and it changes their whole day,” she said.

To find out more about Seaside Therapy Dogs, or to see if you’d like to get involved, contact Bridget at bwolfsfinepaw@ gmail.com or at 910-258-9451.

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Pet Issue

Pets Give Pet Advice A Veterinarian’s Pets Talk Animal Health

If you’re a pet who struggles like I do, tell your parents to talk to your vet. There is help and hope.

Sugar Bear, Bullmastiff and Ridiculous Snack Enthusiast: Snacks Cost Money

BY ALI TRAVIS, DVM, CVMA; RIVER ROAD ANIMAL HOSPITAL

I

struggled to find the right topic for this year’s Pet Issue. There are so many options — fun, entertaining, serious, educational — but none felt right for this moment. So I did what any enterprising veterinarian would do: I asked my pets what they wanted you to know..

G a t o , 14-year-old cat-dog hybrid: Age Is Not a Disease

Yes, I’m technically a cat, but spiritually?

I’m basically a dog. I beg for dinner, play with big dogs, and try to follow them on walks. And even though I’m a “senior,” I feel great.

Older pets may be more prone to issues — high blood pressure, dental disease, early kidney changes, arthritis — but all of these can be managed. I’m on medications for skin allergies, hypertension, high intraocular pressure, and arthritis…and I’m still living my best cat-dog life. Don’t let anyone give up on you just because your tabby-color contains a little gray.

Waffles, the Sweetest Creature on Earth: Youth Is No Guarantee of Health

I’m not even two years old, and I’m built

from spare parts: abnormal kidneys, an abnormal reproductive tract, and joints that are, let’s say, creative interpretations of anatomy.

But I’m also the sweetest dog you’ll ever meet. And because I have health insurance, all my quirks — my weird kidneys, my specialist-required spay, my PRP-treated joints — are covered.

I looked healthy when my mom fostered me, but surprises happen. So tell your parents to get insurance if they can. Sweet spare-parts dogs like me require upkeep.

Puck, WellTr a i n e d Te r r i e r (but Not Built Quite Right): Behavior Can Be Modified (Maybe)

I’m smart.

I’m so welltrained.

I want to please more than anything. But something in my brain just isn’t wired like other dogs. My first incident happened at four months old, my second at one year. I have anxiety. I have issues.

My family never gives up on me. We work with veterinary behaviorists and specialists, and I keep improving. I take medication to help me feel calmer, and we follow specific routines and safety protocols. I’m not “bad.” I’m not broken. I’m just not quite “right” — and I’m really trying.

I am ALWAYS hungry.

Ridiculously hungry.

Ferociously snack-motivated.

And snacks cost money.

But so does living here. Everyone at your vet’s office has their own pets to feed, along with rent, gas, groceries, and everything else.

In Southport—where simply existing is expensive—veterinary staff need to be paid fairly. And the only way to do that is by charging appropriately for the care they provide.

So when you see your bill, know that more than half of it goes directly to the hardworking people caring for pets. And yes, a tiny bit supports my snack habit. But it’s all important.

Jelly, the Friendly Giant: Cancer Isn’t Always What You Think

I’m young and healthy, but some of my equally young friends have had cancer.

Their families were scared of chemotherapy, so my mom explained: chemo for pets is not like chemo for people.

Veterinary oncology is designed to help pets feel better, not worse. Most pets feel good throughout treatment, and many finish cancer-free. If treatment ever causes

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

discomfort, the plan can be changed or stopped. Don’t be afraid of cancer care— it’s kinder, gentler, and more accommodating…just like me.

Roy the Skink (lizard): When dogs and cats aren’t enough

Even people that don’t like reptiles like me. But even so, exotic pets require specific care — food, lighting, temperature, humidity, habitat setup…all the things we call “husbandry.”

Husbandry is 90 percent of what keeps us healthy.

So do your reading, ask questions, and learn what we need before you bring home a “nontraditional” friend like me.

A Final Word From the Pets

If I could have gotten all of them to sit still for a photo, this is where it would go.

But Gato would be grooming a dog, Waffles would be kissing the photographer, Puck would be anxiously trying to behave, Sugar Bear would be stealing treats, Jelly would be greeting strangers, and Roy… Roy would be shaking his head and enjoying the warmth of his enclosure. So instead, you’ll just have to imagine the chaos — and the love — that lives under one roof.

Gato says getting older just means you get better.

Waffles says being sweet and having insurance makes everything easier.

Puck says trying your best counts — but sometimes you need help.

Sugar Bear says snacks are the foundation of a functioning society.

Jelly says treating cancer can be almost as kind as she is.

And Roy says stay warm and check the humidity.

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 11

Pet Issue

Hitting The Big Time

love with Tango!

Was there a prize?

Does Tango have a modeling contract now? No prize — just the honor of the title! Along with a week of social media fame!

Tango’s photo was posted on Vogue Instagram as well as the Westminster Kennel Club Instagram since they participated in the judging. He also has his own Instagram page now — #tangoonthego.

Oh, and they sent his mom a Dogue hat and a print of the cover.

Family Pet Named Vogue Dog of the Year STORY JEFFREY STITES

Y

ou’ll see lots of pet photos from your friends and neighbors in this issue, but one of our local pups got HIS photo shared nationwide! What does it take to hit the big time as a fashion dog?

We can vouch for Tango being a super cool pup. He’s often out helping with the Teach A Kid To Surf events with his mom, Jennifer Ordonez. We were frankly a little surprised he sat still long enough for a photo because he’s a zoomy guy. We spoke to Jen about Tango’s brush with fame in the pages of Dogue.

So what exactly did Tango win?

Tango “won” the honor of being Vogue’s 2025 dog of the year by winning their inaugural Dogue photo contest! There were 56,749 entries and Tango came in first place with two runners up. They apparently felt that “Tango had it all” and was “understated

but serving.” See article: https://www.vogue.com/article/the2025-dogue-competition-winners-arehere Where did you hear about this contest?

NEW YEAR,NEW LOCATION!

Grand Opening January 24th

Find US At The Southport Village Shops Until January 3rd

Tango’s human sister, Sophia, saw the contest on her social media and felt like Tango had a chance of winning.

She took the lead on making it happen for him!

Did you take the photo for the contest or find an older one to use?

Sophia searched through all of Tango’s photos to find one that she thought had the “It factor” that Vogue was looking for. She loved the striking pose and chic chair framing the photo!

online or call/ text FRESH BAKED COOKIES SHIPPED WEEKLY! Order us to place an order 1102 N Howe Street Cottage K in the Southport Village Shoppes

910-368-1346

N NEW

L 112 N OCATION N Howe Stree t

Everything is vegan and gluten free Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

How long did it take to hear you’d won?

The deadline to submit a photo was August 8, 2025 and we heard within just a few weeks. When the email came that he won, we were very cautious and thought it could be a scam. After many lovely email exchanges with editors from Vogue, we realized that this was actually happening! They had fallen in

How long have you had Tango?

Where did you get him?

We got Tango as a puppy in 2019 from a breeder in Salemburg, NC called Star German Shorthaired Pointers.

What are some of Tango’s favorite things?

Tango loves to run free! On land he loves to chase squirrels and birds. On the beach he loves to look for fish. He can also get very locked in on anything that moves like lizards, rabbits, birds.

He gets very focused!

Does Tango have any future plans for more modeling?

No future modeling plans, but we like to enter a photo anytime we see a contest. He’s made a few calendars.

Makes for a good Christmas gift for his Nana!

ked Cookies and Mor a B h s e!

Fre

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 12

Pet Issue

Hooray For Our Pets W

e asked for your pet photos and you came through in a big way! This is one of my very favorite issues of the year. Imagine how great it is to start each day in Novmeber and December checking your work email and finding it full of adorable critters.

This year, we got a wider variety than usual. We have the normal dogs and cats, but keep a lookout for some more unusual pets.

Thank you so much for your support of our annual Pet Issue. I hope you enjoy seeing these as much as I enjoyed putting this togehter.

-- Jeffrey

Bean

Lucas

Oliver Francis

Denver

Greta

Ziggy

Piper

Lucky

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 13

Pet Issue Duke & Izzy

Fritz

Sir Scout

Miss Angie

MISSES, JUNIORS, PLUS & MEN’S

SHOP IN STORE TODAY! labelshopper.com 4956 LONG BEACH ROAD SE, SOUTHPORT

(910)454-0816 • labelshopper.com MON.–FRI.: 9am - 8pm • SAT.: 10am - 6pm • SUN.: 12pm - 5pm Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 14

Pet Issue Cosmo

Enzo

Rosie

Sammi Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 15

Pet Issue Angler

Jessie James

Roland

Indie

Pete Nutmeg

Toffee

Tony & Tyler Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 16

4510 Fieldstone Circle St James $1,189,000

105 E Brown Street Southport $1,100,000

150 Willetts Drive Southport $249,000

3100 Marsh Grove Lane 3101 Southport $370,000

2000 Bonner Bussells Dr SE Southport $460,000

3 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 4,110 Sq Ft

Commercial Property

3 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,061 Sq Ft

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,477 Sq Ft

3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 1,939 Sq Ft

241 Ash Road Southport $549,000

2769 Littleleaf Trail St James $967,000

3471 Heron Circle SE Southport $66,900

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4367 Marsh Elder Court Southport $220,000

・

2571 St James Drive SE C43 St James $80,000

3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 1,742 Sq Ft

4 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 2,551 Sq Ft

0.54 Acre Vacant Lot

Vacant Lot in St James

Dry Stack Boat Slip

5158 Elton Drive SE Southport $365,000

3350 Club Villas Drive 104 St James $329,000

321 NE 60th Street Oak Island $649,000

・

508 N Howe Street Southport $330,000

・

4175 9th Street SE Southport $179,000

3 Beds | 3 Baths | 1,380 Sq Ft

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,052 Sq Ft

3 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,623 Sq Ft

Commercial Lot Downtown

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 787 Sq Ft

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Every 30 seconds, a REMAX agent helps someone find their perfect place.

Serving Brunswick County, NC and Beyond Get Started Today at www.SouthernCoastAtTheBeach.com

SOUTHERN COAST

319 N Howe St, Southport NC | (910) 363-4565 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 17

Southport Cottages by

C.L. Smith Construction Cameron Smith Cell:

910-443-5080 Email: CLSmithGC@gmail.com

Ready to Build YOUR DREAM HOME? CALL TODAY!

SARAH SMITH

910.443.8000

SARAHSMITH@SOUTHPORT-REALTY.COM COASTALLIFESTYLEPROPERTIES.COM

LOT/ HOME PACKAGES AVAILABLE IN COTTAGES OF PRICES CREEK & JONAS CREEK Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 18

Pet Issue Mini

Miller Patrick “PJ” Joseph

Ranger

Stella Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 19

Pet Issue Izzy & Hemi

Daisy

Moe

Coco & JJ

Irene

Sailor

Woodrow

Django Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Jordan www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 20

Pet Issue Pop

Wonka

Lucy Lu Brody Beef Tip

Toby

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Bentley

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 21

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 22

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 23

Pet Issue Rook

Roxie & Max

Mischief

Blue Cow Grille is located at: 108 E Moore Street in Southport, NC Call us at: (910) 363-4402 Open Tues - Sat from 11AM-8PM Sun from 11AM-3PM

Here at the Blue Cow, we love & accommodate our four legged friends as best we can! Outdoor seating available for non-service dogs

Goooodbye 2025, Cheers to a better 2026!

Willow

It's the pet edition and we are happy to be celebrating with you, here are some of our #1 companions

❤

Find, and follow us on Facebook for our soup of the day; we hope to see you soon!

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 24

Pet Issue Dolly

Ellie

Teddy

Trooper

Duke When Was the Last Time You Came to Bella Cucina?

Pizza Dough Made from Scratch Daily

DINE IN & TAKEOUT Serving NY Style Pizza, Pasta, Salads and Subs Gift Cards available in-house and online

Lunch: 11:00 am • Lounge: 4 pm • Dining Room: 5 pm Monday - Saturday

You will love our updated decor!

Pasta! Pasta! Pasta!

ting 20 years Celebra

LIMITED-TIME OFFER!

2 MONTHS FOR $99

5177 SOUTHPORT-SUPPLY RD SE

(910) 454-4540

Reservations/online ordering: BellaDiningNC.com Craft Cocktails, Beer and Wine

NEW SCHEDULE: Morning, Afternoon & Weekend Classes Available! coastaljazzercise@gmail.com • (910) 338 - 9515

More info at: jazzercise.com/2for99

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 25

Pet Issue Finn, Sadie & Ives

Truffles

Laila Lambeau

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 26

SOUTHPORT HISTORIC DISTRICT

SOUTHPORT/ SOUTHPORT WAY

SOUTHPORT/ PREMIER WATER VIEW

516 W. BRUNSWICK STREET

1110 CANEY COURT

4002 BARNES BLUFF DR. SE

MLS #100488871

MLS #100543238

MLS #100478845

$440,000

2,250,000

Price Improvement!

Price Improvement!

$275,000

New Listing!

SOUTHPORT / NEW CONSTRUCTION

SOUTHPORT / NEW CONSTRUCTION

418 RAVEN GLEN DRIVE

415 RAVEN GLEN DRIVE

MLS #100543070

MLS #100543069

$695,000

$650,000

Pre-Sale!

Pre-Sale!

SOUTHPORT / PRIME COMMERCIAL LOCATION

BOILING SPRING LAKES

1205 N. HOWE STREET

1961 GASTONIA ROAD

MLS #100540503

MLS #100534371

$140,000

$275,000

New Listing!

.55 Acre Lot!

SOUTHPORT / COMMERCIAL

HISTORIC SOUTHPORT / HOMESITE

SOUTHPORT / 27 HOMESITES

1676 N. HOWE STREET

207 ROSCO COURT B

N. CASWELL AVENUE

MLS # 100370424

$ 1,500,000

PRIME 2.6 ACRES +/-!

MLS #100481589 $199,900

1/3 ACRE!

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

MLS 100457934

$1,950,000

Sale Pending! www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 27

browse our inventory here

4019 Long Beach Rd. Southport, NC 28461 (910)457-4497 Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 28

Start the New Year Right With Pet Wellness

Make sure your pet is up to date with an Annual Exam!

8593 River Road SE | Southport, NC Southport | Oak Island | St. James

(910) 454-8910

2025

M

AG

GIE WINN

ER

Transform Your Garden Screened Organic Topsoil, Garden Compost, Fill Dirt, Mulches, Eco Chips, Longleaf Pine Straw, Fire Pits Decorative and Driveway Gravels, Various River Rock, Drainage Rock, Landscape and Focal Boulders, Flagstone, Mortar Sand, Stepping Stones and Pavers, Concrete Tile Benches, Outdoor Furniture, Seasoned Firewood, Raised Garden Beds, Driftwood, Artisan Garden Decor, Metal Palm Trees, Authentic Mexican Talavera Pottery and Planters, Kindness Rock Kits Hometown Proud Second Generation Family Owned and Operated Over 50 years

910-443-0819

www.hoffmanecoworks.com

Located through gate at end of Trail’s End Road, Hwy. 211 across from Wendy’s

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 29

THE LOCAL EXPERTS

318 Caswell Beach Road Caswell Beach 3 bed | 3 bath, $1,233,000

211 N. Howe Street Historic Southport 2,448 sq.ft., $1,599,999

5122 Prices Creek Drive Harbor Oaks

3 bed | 2 full, 2 half bath, $1,115,000

1003 Softwind Way The Hammocks 3 bed | 2 bath, $749,900

2002 Petes Camp Drive Smithville Woods 3 bed | 2 bath, $495,900

135 NE 36th Street Oak Island 3 bed | 2 bath, $504,995

1012 E. Moore Street Southport 3 bed | 2 bath, $549,000

5909 Dutchman Creek Road Indigo Plantation 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $747,000

5122 Fernwood Drive Harbor Oaks 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $759,900

5081 Ballast Road Rivermist 2 bed | 2 bath, $332,000

5138 Fernwood Drive Harbor Oaks 4 bed | 3.5 bath, $949,000

3838 Winding Vine Way Arbor Creek 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $589,000

SOUTHPORT-REALTY.COM 727 N. HOWE STREET SOUTHPORT, NC 28461

SALES: 910.457.7676 RENTALS: 910.457.6401

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

SALES@SOUTHPORT-REALTY.COM RENTALS@SOUTHPORT-REALTY.COM

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 30

OUR TEAM Brian Deutsch

Myles Williams

Kim Anne Russ

Pamela Frandano

Brian Quinn

Katherine Hufham

Verilyn McKee

Sarah Smith

Sherol Lappala

Fred Fiss

David Thorp

Lee Ann Walker

Katherine Wooten

Tanya Broussard

Sally Stidham

Karen Saunders

Valerie Earman

Annabelle Pivarnik

Kim Moss

Shea Williams

Andrea Milligan

Karen Hufham

Christian Stiller

Jason Hester

SALES | RENTALS | VACATIONS

Wrap Up 2025 by Planning Your Dream Home!

Don’t wait for the new year—get pre-approved and ready to buy your perfect home in 2026.

Here’s how we can help you get ready: ▪ Pre-approval guidance so you know your budget ▪ Low down payment and competitive interest options ▪ Personalized mortgage plans to fit your goals ▪ Step-by-step support through the home buying process ▪ Fast, smooth closings to start 2026 in your new home

Reach out today to get ready for the New Year!

Your keys to a new home are waiting!

Integrity Home MORTGAGE CORPORATION

Let’s Connect Scan NOW!

NMLS ID# 208516

KAREN THROCKMORTON Branch Manager NMLS #112668

910.471.4200

KThrockmorton@ihmcloans.com

For informational purposes only. All mortgage loan applicants are subject to underwriting and qualification guidelines. This is not a commitment to lend. . IHMC is licensed in NC, SC, and VA NMLS ID #208516 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 31

Pet Issue Rudy & Zeke

Slick Willy

Ranger

Buster Mia

Ozzy & Merle

Dolly & Lucy

Hazel

Angel Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Finn www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 32

When Fresh Matters, You’ll Be Hooked!

Roses Are Red, Violets Are Blue ...

Tie Your Vision Together on 2/22!

❤ BRIDAL & EVENTS EXPO ❤ Sunday 2/22/2026 Discover vendors, ideas, and inspiration for your big day—all in one place!

Thank You for voting us “Favorite Dinner With A View”

Book Your Valentines Reservation Now!

Register by emailing

events@rustyhooksdockside.com

NOW SERVING BRUNCH Saturdays & Sundays New Brunch Hours 11 AM - 2 PM!

Enjoy a spectacular view from our Big Deck Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner • Brunch on Sat. & Sun.

We’ll See You Dockside!

4907 Fish Factory Rd • (910) 477-6616 • rustyhooksdockside.com

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 33

Pet Issue Hunter

Ace & Rambo

Sophie

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Georgia

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 34

Cuisine of the Lower Cape Fear FRESH, LOCAL, EXCELLENCE

Visit our website to view our menu

mrpsbistro.com

www.

Reservations Suggested 309 N. Howe St. • 910-457-0801 OPEN: Tues.-Sat. 4:30-8:30 p.m.

WE WILL BE CLOSED TUESDAY, JANUARY 6TH 2026

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and join our email list - The Low Country Low Down at mrpsbistro.com for the latest news and specials Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 35

Pet Issue Coal Porter

Topper

Sadie

Buddy Gus

Blu

Tango

Stella

Sandy Toes

Savannah

Englebert Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 36

PJ

Pet Issue Jupiter Fudge & Bentley

Otto

Romeo

Walter

Poppy

Lilly

Bolt Whiskey

Gizmo Jack & Lady

Cowboy Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 37

Pet Issue Dublin

Rupert Maggie

Pan Pancake

Zuni

Peanut

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Copper www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 38

Meet Our Southport Team!

Kaitlin Ridder, MD

Dana Point, MD

Anna Thompson, PA-C

Angela Plichta, PA-C

The most complete urological services in the region.

Over 50 plus years, four generations of making you a part of our family. Based in Wilmington and Southport.

UROLOGY ASSOCIATES OF SENC, P.A.

www.urologywilmington.com Schedule your appointment today!

Every Other Monday 8:30am-5pm • Tuesday 8:30am-5pm • Wednesday 8:30am-5pm

SERVICES OFFERED Bladder Cancer Blood in Urine Enlarged Prostate Erectile Dysfunction Fertility Frequent Urination Hydrocele Kidney Cancer Kidney Stones Low Testosterone Penile Implants Peyronie’s Disease Prostate Artery Embolization Prostate Cancer Prostatitis PSA Screening Testicular Cancer Urinary Tract Infection Urinary Incontinence Urolift Vasectomy Reversal Vasectomy Varicocele

910-763-6251

4222 Long Beach Road SE Suite B • Southport, NC 28461 Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 39

Keeping Fit

New Year’s Fitness

Resolve, Not Resolutions, Provides Results

BY VICTOR FERNANDES

Victor Fernandes is owner of Fernandez Fit, helpjng clients achieve personal and professional success through health and fitness

W

e’re now in the heart of New Year’s resolution season, which means many people - perhaps even you – will “vow” to get in the gym, eat healthier, lose weight, get back into skinny clothes, run a 5K for the first time, even get on the floor to play with their grandchildren and be able to get back up without feeling like they have been run over by a bus.

But there’s one thing you have to accept if any of those goals become reality.

The work is hard. It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t, everyone would do it — and there would be no need for coaches like me because everyone would be in great shape and possess the quality of life they have always coveted.

Anything worth doing in life, personally and professionally, is hard.

Dropping 75 pounds and taking control of my health was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life, followed a close second by changing careers after 26 years at 47 years old, and then a few years later launching Fernandes

Fit LLC.

Dropping 75 pounds paved the way for a more confident version of me to take on those challenges.

Much of life is uncomfortable, and change when little to nothing has changed in someone’s life in many years is even more uncomfortable.

People remain in the same equally disappointing and frustrating place in life — as I did for two decades — because it’s the pain they know. They deem the pain they know to be tolerable because it’s far less scary than the pain they don’t know.

People need to learn to live in discomfort because the reward is far more satisfying than the pain is uncomfortable.

They have to accept that the journey to the reward is long and hard.

That’s what makes it so rewarding.

When it comes to getting in better mental, emotional and physical shape, people often need to correct years

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

of bad habits, inactivity and neglect.

They will find themselves constantly making decisions and choices they don’t want to make.

Read this laundry list of important tasks and ask yourself if you’re willing to do it (if you’re not already doing it consistently, of course). * You have to get up early to work out. * You have to work out when you’re sore. * You have to work out when you’re tired. * You have to work out when it’s cold outside and your bed is nice and warm. * You have to choose the healthy option to eat when your friends are eating all the unhealthy foods you love and have eaten for years. * You have to cut back on alcohol consumption, including during the holiday season. * You have to get quality sleep instead of binge-watching your favorite Netflix shows. * You have to deal with the inevitable pushback from family and friends who don’t want you to change for the better because it forces them to take a look at themselves, their bad habits and the changes they haven’t made in their lives.

All that is hard. But you know what’s harder? Living with yourself knowing you and your life could be better, and you haven’t done a thing to change it.

That was my life for my early adult years. I never took care of myself, and at the time I convinced myself that it was more important to sacrifice my health and well-being to take care of my family and build my name in what

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 40

became a 26-year career in the sports journalism industry.

I couldn’t ignore the damage I had done while ballooning to nearly 250 pounds. Still, I convinced myself there was nothing I could do to change my fate. But in reality, I simply didn’t believe in myself enough to take on the challenge.

And the end result – I feel like I wasted the better part of 20 years of my adult life.

Which is why, when asked about where I stand in life, I always say in my relative infancy of life, and the best is yet to come – because I put in the work every day to make it happen. There are no resolutions but rather resolve.

That will always be my vow – because Fitness Is Our Business.

If you need help laying out the best plan of action to take control of your health and well-being, I’m here to help.

Contact me at 814-504-7774 or by email at info@fernandesfit.com to get started. You can also get more information on my website at fernandesfit. com.

We’re Growing Come Grow With Us! Welcoming new properties now!

Extensive Rental Marketing Strategy Friendly Guest Services Representatives

Property Management for Vacation & Long Term Rentals

Enhanced Emergency Care Is Here!

Thanks to the ongoing support of the residents we serve, emergency care at Dosher Memorial Hospital has entered a new era. Our new, modern, state-of-the-art Emergency Department is now open and ready to serve a growing Brunswick County.

New ED Now Open Short wait times.

Advanced technology.

Experienced providers.

Compassionate care & personal attention.

Full-Service Maintenance & Housekeeping 24/7 Online Reservations

Oak Island Accommodations

855.942.8835 | ComeToOakIsland.co

Where Southport Comes to Celebrate

Save The Date

• Experience the best of Southport dining with new seasonal menu features, rotating chef specials, and comforting winter dishes designed to bring people together.

• Join us every week for our popular Wednesday Soirées with vibrant small plates, craft cocktails, and a welcoming mid-week escape in the heart of downtown.

• Coming in January: MixLab Academy Cocktail Classes.

Chef’s Indonesian Tasting and Beverage Dinner

January 29th

Featuring Indonesian Cuisine and Beverages Call 910-457-4544 to Reserve Seating

CALL NOW TO RESERVE!

A New Focus on Our Regular Dinner Services with Extra Hours • Offering a New Seasonal Menus; Offering Group Lunches and Special Event Contracts • Robust and Flavorful Specials for each Meal Service • A broader Range of Authentic International Cuisines • An increasing variety of House made desserts • Using our Space & Services to foster Unity: Out of Many One!

Create loving memories when you dine with us! • RESERVATIONS: 910-457-4544, Dine-In Seating and Take-Out Orders Dinner: Tuesday thru Thursday 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm Dinner on Friday and Saturdays: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm, or close Sunday Brunch: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Lunch Service: Tuesday thru Saturday 11:30 am- 2:00 pm

116 North Howe Street, Historic Downtown Southport

Begin the New Year with a month of coastal flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and warm winter hospitality.

portsofcallbistro.com The Full Menus for both of the these events will be posted on our Facebook Page

910-457-4544 Thank you for voting us:

“Most Creative Menu” - 2024 &2025 Maggie Award, And “Best Bistro” and “Best Martini” – 2024 People’s Choice Awards

We’ve been working to Serve You since 2011. Thanks for these prior awards: People’s Choice Awards: “Best Bistro”– ( 2023, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2013) Maggie Awards: Best International Cuisine (2023); “Most Creative Menu” – (2021, 2019); Most Creative Chef (2020) Wooden Boat Show: Best Chowder

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www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 41

Golf Tips Swing Ropes And Rods

The Second In A Series Explaining Golf Clubs

BY NICOLE WEL LER, LPGA / PGA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL

W

hat comes to mind when watching an accomplished amateur or professional golfer swing a club? Is it the whoosh sound that the clubs makes? Is it the seemingly effortless smooth move seen from start to finish? Is it the great balance? To make this happen, one of the keys within a golf swing is being tension-free in the arms and as a teaching professional, I can tell you that’s one thing we don’t see with many golf swings. Golfers ‘grip’ the club so firmly that their knuckles turn white, their hands get sore and their arms block all the energy from smoothly traveling from the body out through the hands and into that golf club. Tension is a big for your body to transmit the energy problem, so what can we do about it?

I was just teaching at a big PGA Women’s Clinic corporate event in Charlotte and host/former LPGA player Jane Blalock was there. She mentioned that she doesn’t hold the club soft but gently…sometimes different words bring about a better image. Either way, the pressure was definitely on the lighter than tighter side!

1.Change wording from grip as a verb to grip as a noun and then the verb being hold, place or apply. Place your hands on the club. Apply your hands to the grip. Hold the club. But please don’t GRIP it! For right-handed golfers, Tight usually goes Right since the arms can’t let the club head release softly around. The hands have to be able to allow the energy to let the club swing.

2.Imagine your arms being two thick ropes or lines like at a gym or on a boat instead of two steel rods. One could even imagine the arms being like the tips of a fishing rod with some suppleness and flex to them.

3.Hit shots/chips/pitches with five different grip pressures from extremely light to extremely firm. You could even use a number system from 1 (soft) to 5 (firm). Keep the same grip pressure in both hands and keep it constant throughout the swing. Do this four times with each of the grip pressures. Can you start with a 2 in each hand and finish with a 2? Or do you start with a 1 and end with a 4? What pressure is best for you?

4.Repeat #3 with different tension levels in your forearms and shoulders. What pressure is best for you?

5.You can get a sensor to measure grip pressure. I used to have a grip way back when that screeched loudly if it was held too tightly. I loved that as a training tool, made for one loud session in most cases! Unfortunately it was on a club permanently but these days there are other tools out there, like Smart Swing that measures pressure.

through your arms and into the club with arm ‘ropes’ instead of ‘steel rods’ and I hope you start seeing more shots get out there long and in play.

Nicole Weller is an award-winning

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Figure out what tension works best Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

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

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 42

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Restaurant Week 2026 will be Monday, April 27 through Saturday May 2

Register by January 15, 2026

It’s Back!

Full Service Restaurants, On The Go Eateries, and Sweet Shops are invited to join the SouthportOak Island Chamber of Commerce for 2026 Restaurant Week! This six-day event is dedicated to showcasing the exceptional and varied culinary options in our area. Restaurant Weeks are popular to draw visitors to the area and encourage residents to try different local meal options.

They are an opportunity for chefs to be creative and try new dishes only available during Restaurant Week.

MEDIA CAMPAIGN: Restaurant week will be promoted through an aggressive publicity campaign using social media, local media, and direct email to over 2,700 people. In addition, each participant will be featured on our designated websiteSPTOKIRestaurantWeek.com The Chamber will supply each participating business with a yard sign, poster, and social media marketing materials.

WHAT DOES THE CONSUMER GET? Restaurant Week Passport: Guests print a Restaurant Week Passport

off the website. Each time they dine at a participating restaurant, they receive a stamp. Returned passports eligible for gift certificate drawings from participating businesses.

PARTICIPATION FEE: • Chamber member restaurants $100 plus Gift Certificate (equal to a meal for two) • Non-Chamber Members $350 plus Gift Certificate (fee includes Essential Membership)

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

How Can Your Restaurant Participate?

FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS: • Two-Course Lunch • Three Course Dinner • Dinner For Two

ONE THE GO EATERIES AND SWEET SHOPS: • % Off Purchase • Free Drink with Purchase • Buy One Get One % Off

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 43

Lunch with History

History

SHS Brings Past to the Table for Its 50th Year STORY CONTRIBUTED BY SOUTHPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

H

istory is on the menu, and Southport’s historical characters are serving it up with stories worth savoring. As part of its 50th Anniversary celebration, the Southport Historical Society (SHS) will debut Living Voices: Lunch with History on Feb. 18, at 11:30 am (1st seating) and 1 pm (2nd seating). It’s a unique lunchtime event when guests can meet and talk with interpreters portraying real Southport residents from decades and centuries past. The program is free to SHS members, $10 for non-members, and includes a light meal. port’s well-known surgeon who was instrumental in establishing Brunswick County hospital, later renamed in his honor.

•Sonny Dosher (Travis Gilbert), Confederate Army veteran, lighthouse keeper of Bald Head Lighthouse from 1882-1915.

•Deputy J. B. Fountain (Rick Mitchell), Brunswick County jailer who was once overpowered by an escaping murderer.

•Abram Galloway (James White), a soldier in the US Colored Troops.

•Susan King (Debbie Scavuzzo), Southport’s librarian who served in WWII as a nurse in the Pacific and as a war correspondent, rivaling Japan’s “Tokyo Rose” •Miriam Gore Lane (Alexis Graves), Brunswick County Jeanes Supervisor, advising teachers and monitoring student progress in rural Black schools.

•Rebecca Long (Barbara Lemos), widow of the first lighthouse keeper on Bald Head Island, a woman about whom Thomas Jefferson said, “neither he nor the country was ready for.”

•Susan Loughlin (Sue Crippen), who, for several years, raised her family inside the Old Jail, making sure her children and the inmates were all properly fed.

•Kate Stuart (Pat Kirkman), remembered as the Grand Old Lady of North Carolina, whose ingenuity and hospitality put the Stuart Inn on the map.

•Jessie Taylor (Liz Fuller), the weather observer and storm display person who was credited with saving hundreds of lives during her 55 years of service.

•Dr. D. I. Watson (Wes Collins), the physician who guided Southport through the 1918 influenza pandemic.

•Judge Sam Watts (John Moseley), Colonel in the NC Militia, delegate to the 1868 Constitutional Convention, and NC Superior Court judge in opposition to KKK. One of the most exciting moments for

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

the interpreters is when they decide who to portray. “The interpreters each selected an individual to represent who touched them in some way,” Fuller explained. “They felt compelled to bring that person to life for other people.”

Preparing for these roles is part research, part art. Performers read books, articles, and historical documents, and whenever possible, they talk with family members who still remember the people being portrayed.

Sometimes, those connections are especially close to home. Joe Loughlin is portraying his great-great-grandfather; Randy Jones is portraying his great-grandfather; Annette Clemmons is portraying her great-aunt; Alexis Gore is portraying her aunt; and Stuart Callari will be portraying herself.

In a wonderful twist, Callari, an experienced actor and co-founder of Brunswick Little Theatre, is bringing her own story to the table.

At 91, she has fascinating life stories, and we couldn’t imagine her portraying anyone more interesting or charming than herself.

As organizers prepared for the event, they were struck by how closely the lives of many of the historical figures overlapped. At different times, both the Fountain and Loughlin families lived at the jail. The land the jail was built on was originally owned by Kate Stuart, who was the first president of the Woman’s Club founded by Jessie Stevens Taylor. Jessie safeguarded the entire town by hanging flags on the weather tower to signal the approach of storms. Nurse Annie Clemmons and Drs. Watson and Dosher cared for everyone when

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 44

they were injured or sick. They were all part of a larger community, each contributing what they could to their neighbors.

That sense of shared community, past and present, is at the heart of the 50th Anniversary theme of “Living History, Sharing Community.”

“This event fits our theme perfectly,” said Poole. “We’re sharing the lives of Southport’s past citizens with the community today.”

The Society hopes guests leave with curiosity sparked and perspectives broadened. “We want people to have fun and learn a little in the process,” said Fuller. “We hope they are intrigued by Southport’s history and want to learn more, and maybe even get involved with the Society.”

Volunteers are always welcome.

Whatever a person’s talent or interest, whether it’s reenacting, researching, planning events, giving tours, participating in our annual home tour, or helping with publicity, there is something they can do to help.

Living Voices: Lunch With History is just one highlight in a full year of programs.

On Feb. 6, the Society will present an original play at the 14th Black History Symposium, telling the story of Frank Gordon, born enslaved, who became an educator and spent 55 years teaching throughout Brunswick County. Meanwhile, a year-long project titled “50 Southport Stories” will feature Southport residents sharing personal, family, and researched stories on video, and will be available on Facebook, YouTube, and the Society’s website. And as always, SHS will host monthly Second Tuesday Talks, quarterly meetings with interesting speakers, and the annual Living Voices of the Past and the 2026 Holiday Home Tour.

As the Southport Historical Society celebrates 50 years, its original purpose remains unchanged: to research, preserve, and share Southport’s history for generations to come.

And this February, Southport’s past will be more alive than ever, ready to greet guests, swap stories, and share a meal.

How can people get tickets?

Living Voices: Lunch with History Location: Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. Date: Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 Time: 11:30 (1st seating Members only) 1:00 (2nd seating Open to All) Admission: Free to members; $10 non-members Tickets:www.southporthistoricalsociety.org

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www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 45

History

Lessons From The Past

impact on the education of Black children, I became very excited about the possibility of participating in this presentation about aspects of his life. I hope the audience is inspired by his story.

McCracken: I hope people learn about Mr. Gordon and what he did.

Fuller: I hope that people come away with a better understanding of how history connects across generations. When stories like Frank Gordon’s are told in the very community in which they happened, and especially when young people take part in telling them, they stop being distant history and start to become a meaningful part of our shared identity. That’s the real power of local history: it brings the past close enough for us to feel it.

55 Years of Teaching in Brunswick County STORY CONTRIBUTED BY SOUTHPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

H

istory takes the stage on Friday, Feb. 6, at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.) at the Southport Community Building during the three-day 14th Annual Brunswick County Black History Symposium.

This year’s featured performance, Professor Frank Gordon: 55 Years of Teaching, written by Southport Historical Society President, Liz Fuller, Ph.D., shares the story of a man who spent his life opening doors for others through the power of education.

Born enslaved on a Brunswick County plantation, Frank was nine years old when the Civil War ended. After emancipation, like so many newly freed citizens, he was eager to learn. That early hunger for knowledge led him to a career as a teacher. For fifty-five years, Gordon taught hundreds of Brunswick County children to read and write, showing them that education could lift them to a better life.

Portraying Professor Gordon is James Fish, a lifelong educator whose classroom experience brings authenticity and depth to the role. Keyboardist Taraus Deas will once again provide live music, lending emotion and atmosphere to the performance. Several Brunswick County school-

children will also take part, representing the next generation of learners and reminding the audience that the story of education is still unfolding today.

One young star is Jefferson McCracken, whose family has lived in Brunswick County for generations. Some may still remember his great-grandfather, George McCracken, who was the first Black Police Chief in Brunswick County. At just nine years old, Jefferson is already an experienced performer. He sings with the district youth choir at his church, Christian Chapel AMEZ, and appears annually in Christmas at the Amuzu, where he has sung solos the past two seasons.

Frank Gordon, who is the subject of the play, still has descendants living in Southport. One of them is his great-great-granddaughter, Judy Gordon, Chair of John N. Smith Restoration and Preservation, Inc. This non-profit oversees the care of the largest African American cemetery in Brunswick County which is also the final resting place of Professor Gordon.

The Gordon family’s ongoing presence in Southport is a reminder that local history is more than just chapters in history books.

It’s the story of people and events that shaped our community and influenced the lives we lead now.

What’s the significance of this year’s program?

Liz Fuller (playwright/director): It’s impossible to measure the impact that Frank Gordon had on Brunswick County. He taught for 55 years in one-room schoolhouses across the county, teaching hundreds of children to learn to read. He influenced generations to reach for more in their lives and to prioritize the education of their children and grandchildren. Gordon’s own grandson obtained a PhD and a J.D. and served for 30 years as a diplomat in the U.S. State Department.

Frank Gordon (1856 – 1939)

What motivated you to participate in the project?

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

About the Brunswick County Black History Symposium Jefferson McCracken is in the Third Grade at Southport Elementary School

James Fish (Frank Gordon): I relate to Frank Gordon’s story in many ways. I was born in the little country town of Ideal in Macon County, Georgia. Of course, Georgia was very segregated back then. My parents both worked in the fields picking cotton. Eventually, my father obtained a job laying railings on the train tracks. My mother, who had an eleventh-grade education, worked the fields in the morning and in the afternoon, she was my teacher for the first two years of my education.

We were taught in a very small dwelling, no running water nor heat. We were 12 students, and my mother divided us by years.

We had slate boards on which to write, and the old books that the white school had discarded to read. From that point on, I had a thirst for learning.

I imagine my early classroom experience was very similar to the schools in which Frank Gordon taught. And my desire for learning, and for teaching, was also very similar to his. I retired with forty-eight years as an educator. As I reflect on my career, I would like to believe that I had some impact on the lives of my students just as Professor Gordon did on his. He paved the way for many of those who came after him. Truly a great individual. I’m excited to share his story.

Jefferson McCracken (student): [It’s] something magical and now I love history.

What do you hope the audience takes away from the performance?

Fish: As I learned about Professor Frank Gordon and his unwavering and triumphant

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 46

Founded in 2012 by Donnie Joyner, this annual three-day gathering celebrates the lives and legacies of Brunswick County’s Black residents through theater, music, and educational programming. Presented in partnership with the Southport Historical Society and supported by the City of Southport, it brings local history to life while highlighting the enduring contributions of the county’s Black community. Since 2020, the Symposium has also received support from the Brunswick County Arts Council and the North Carolina Arts Council. The weekend opens on Friday with a theatrical performance, followed on Saturday with lectures, demonstrations and exhibits on local history, and concludes on Sunday with a popular afternoon Gospelfest, directed

by Gwen Wearren.

How To Get Your Tickets Professor Frank Gordon: 55 Years of Teaching is a free program, but reservations are required. Free tickets can be reserved at www.southporthistoricalsociety.org.

Brunswick County Black History Symposium Opening Night Location: Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St. Date: Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

Admission: Free, but reservations are required.

Tickets: www.southporthistoricalsociety. org

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The Battle For Gold

History

January Brunswick Civil War Roundtable STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

T

o enter any war both sides require huge budgets to pay for weapons, ammunition, equipment, and of course, food, clothing, and supplies for the troops! When it came to the Civil War, funding was a crucial issue. On the Union side, $73 million was available. However, the Confederates could only muster $500,000!

Despite the difference, both sides desperately needed access to America’s mineral wealth to stabilize their wartime economies. The main focus was the Desert Southwest regions, especially California.

To explain this rarely discussed topic, guest speaker Neal Chatelain will join us at the Tuesday, Jan. 6 meeting of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table. His captivating presentation is entitled, “Treasure and Empire in the Civil War: The Panama Route, the West, and the Campaigns to Control America’s Mineral Wealth.”!

So, what does the Panama Route have to do with the Civil War? Everything! The conflict extended beyond traditional battlefields to the American West and the high seas. In the beginning, California’s gold deposits, which were in abundance about that time, played a key role in financing the Civil War. For the Union, the question was how to get extracted gold safely from California all the way

to New York. The route stretched from San Francisco to Panama City.

From there a relatively brief Panama Railroad journey across the narrow isthmus (no Panama Canal yet) to the Atlantic port of Colon. Finally, the ships of Cornelius Vanderbilt’s steamship company carried the gold to the port of New York.

The Confederate government attempted to stake its own claims to this “gold rush.” Confederate armies advanced to seize the West and its gold and silver reserves, while their warships steamed to intercept the Union’s Panama Route ships. Their desire was to intercept U.S. treasure ships which could carry up to $1.5 million in gold during a single voyage. The Confederate Navy Department’s plan in part employed the use of commerce raiders, privateers, and small clandestine groups who would book passage on enemy vessels and attempt to seize them from within. However, these “pirates” never captured a single gold-laden prize ship! Even with those problems and shortcomings, the route and convoy system was credited as having been a “cost-effective” measure to ensure

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

the Panama Route ships safely completed their voyages. So, between April 1861 and June 1865 nearly $171 million (almost $6 billion in today’s dollars) in bullion was transported safely. As an aside, capturing ships carrying gold from California could have doubled the Confederacy’s treasury at any given point in time. It never happened.

In a broader sense, just the mere presence of the convoys and their support facilities enhanced U.S./Caribbean relations, helped enforce the Monroe Doctrine during a troubling period of international conflict, and raised the stature and visibility of the United States as a premier hemi-

spheric power. While all this was going on, Civil War battles continued, in large part due to California’s gold funding!

Neil Chatelain is a professor, historian, teacher, and author who specializes in researching, writing, and speaking on naval operations of the Civil War. He spent nine years as a U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer,

Special Events • Better Meetings

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www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 48

History

both on active duty and in the Navy Reserve. He is an associate professor of history at Lone State College – North Harris, in the greater Houston area, and is the vice president and editorial board chair for the non-profit Emerging Civil War. A prolific author, Neil has written scores of articles in journals, magazines, books, and online forums, and speaks at dozens of conferences, museums, podcasts, and Civil War round tables.

This will be the first meeting of the

New Year, and will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 6 at Hatch Auditorium in Caswell Beach. Registration begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. The visitor fee is still only $10, and may be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues, which importantly can include a spouse. Incidentally, about one-third of our audiences are female!

For more information about the meeting or the Round Table, please contact president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com, or call him directly at 404-229-9425. Or, visit their website at Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com for background and current information, news, and updates, or their Facebook page.

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Explore

Southport in 2026 SEPTEMBER

FEBRUARY

6th-8th Southport Black History Symposium, Southport Community

Building

21st-28th Crafting the American Story Exhibition, Southport Community

Building First In Freedom Festival, Southeast North Carolina MARCH

8th Opera Sunday, 2 PM, Southport Community Building

5th Southport Lions Club Car Show,

Downtown Southport

7

th

10th 23rd

14th Spring into Health 5K/1 Mile Run

Children’s Crab Derby, 8:30 AM Registration, Southport City Dock Southport Concert Series Final Night, 6 PM - 8 PM, Franklin Square Park Southport Fall Market Begins, 9 AM - 2 PM, Waterfront Park, Weekly OCTOBER

15th Love in Bloom Bridal Expo, 2 PM - 5 PM, Southport Community

28th Building

1st-3rd U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament

Easter Egg Hunt, 10 AM, Franklin Square Park

3rd Captain Charlie‘s Children's Fishing Tournament, 8 AM

APRIL

18th Southport Springfest, 10 AM - 4 PM, Downtown Southport

6th Southport Summer Market Begins, 9 AM - 2 PM, 28

Howl-O-Ween Bowser Bash, Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn

Waterfront Park, Weekly Southport Concert Series Begins, 6 PM - 8 PM, Franklin Square Park, Weekly

30th Spook or Treat, 5 PM - 6:30 PM, 209 N. Atlantic Ave 31st

NOVEMBER

26th NC 4th of July Festival Begins

7th Holly Days, 9 AM - 4 PM, Southport Baptist Church

JULY

4

Cape Fear Cruisers Car Show, 10 AM - 4 PM, Downtown Southport Trunk or Treat, 5 PM, Southport Fire Headquarters, 1011 N. Howe Street

JUNE

th

Registration, Southport City Pier Miles for Mammos, 7 AM

25th Southport Witches Ride, 12 PM, Downtown Southport

MAY

th

24

th

11th

NC Fourth of July Festival Ends

Southport Wooden Boat Show, 10 AM - 4 PM, Old Yacht Basin Southport Fall Market Final Day, 9 AM - 2 PM, Waterfront Park DECEMBER

AUGUST

4th-12th

1st Food Truck Rodeo, 11 AM - 3 PM, th

26

Fort Johnston - Southport Museum & Visitors’ Center Southport Summer Market Final Day, 9 AM - 2 PM, Waterfront Park

WINTERFEST activities Disc o v e r m o r e at w w w . c it y o f so u t h po r t . c o m

DI S C LA I MER: Ev e nt s are subj e c t t o c hang e Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 50

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 51

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16+/- Acres Mixed Use Development Opportunity.

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16+/- Acres | Zoned R-6000/CLD | $700,000. Seize this rare opportunity to develop approximately 16 acres in one of North Carolina’s fastest growing areas! With signalized access, this prime location is perfect for builders, developers, and investors. Listed at $700,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Reach out to Jonathan McLaughlin at 910-2698200 for information or to discuss the possibilities!

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

4164 CAMBRIDGE COVE CIRCLE, UNIT 1. 3 BED | 3 BATH | $437,000.

Low-Maintenance Living at Its Best — You Deserve It! Spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying life! Soak up the sun on Oak Island’s beautiful beaches, stroll the charming streets of historic Southport, or head out on the water with nearby marina access and public boat ramps. This spacious end-unit townhome features a 2-car garage, 3 bedrooms + office/4th bedroom & screened porch with peaceful pond views. Enjoy resort-style amenities just across the footbridge—clubhouse, pool, and tennis courts all included! Call Lee Ann Walker, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (919) 795-7386.

1524 PLEASANT HOLLOW COURT 4 BED | 3 BATH | $362,000. 2.75% VA Assumable Rate! Incredible opportunity for qualified buyers - ask the listing agent for details! Priced Below Tax Value! This beautiful home sits on a corner lot with no side neighbor and a fully fenced backyard with two gates! Inside you’ll love the open-concept layout, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a main-floor bedroom + full bath - perfect for guests or multi-gen living. Avalon offers resort style amenities: pool, fitness center, pickleball, dog park, firepit, cornhole, bocce ball, horseshoe pit & a 15-acre lake for kayaking and fishing! Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty, Inc., (910) 6208962 for more information.

6856 CAMPBELLS RIDGE DRIVE. 4 BED | 3 BATH | $554,000. This feature-rich residence blends modern style with thoughtful upgrades throughout. Set on an impressive .65-acre lot, the expansive backyard is a blank canvas waiting for your dream outdoor space! Inside, you’ll find over 2,570 heated square feet, including 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths on the main level, plus a 4th bedroom, 3rd full bath, and large bonus room upstairs - perfect for guests, hobbies, or a home office. Prime location - 3 mins to Leland shops, 10 mins to downtown Wilmington. Call Andrea Milligan, Southport Realty, Inc., (910) 2796671 for more information.

Want to know

3212 WEXFORD WAY. 3 BED | 2.5 BATH | $550,000. Discover charm and comfort in this beautifully maintained home nestled in the sought-after St. James Plantation community. Offering 2,445 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space, the home features a spacious 1stfloor owner’s suite with a large walk-in closet and en-suite bath, plus a bright sunroom overlooking a tranquil wooded backdrop. The open-concept layout is perfect for entertaining, while the tree-lined backyard provides privacy and serenity. Recent updates include a new roof and tankless water heater (2023), fresh interior paint (2019), and painted Hardi plank siding (2019). With a dehumidifier in the crawlspace and abundant storage, this home offers worry-free living— ideal as a full-time residence or coastal retreat. Call Karen Saunders, Southport Realty Inc., for more information, (910) 713-0021.

4537 FLEETWOOD DRIVE. 3 BED | 2 BATH | $279,000. PRICE REDUCTION-MOTIVATED SELLER! Enjoy single level living in this 1,259 square foot cottage on a spacious .34 acre cul-de-sac lot in Carolina Place. Great location, just minutes to the bridge to Oak Island and easy access to Southport as well.

AND NO City Taxes! Brand New fortified roof which translates to lower HomeOwners insurance rates. And the HVAC is just two years old. Spacious great room with cathedral ceilings and gas fireplace. Sellers installed LVP flooring throughout living areas two years ago. Neighborhood pool and crabbing dock (RV and Boat storage available on a first come first serve basis). Storage building in rear yard for all your yard tools and beach toys. What’s not to love! Call Sherol Lappala, Southport Realty, Inc., (910) 363-7422 for more information.

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 52

what’s

happening this week?

SouthportMag.com

W

CALENDAR

e’ve included events here that are listed as scheduled, 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). Register online for Town of Oak Island programs at www.OakIslandNC.goc/PROGRAMS.

J

anuary is pretty sparse for our Events Calendar. I don’t mind a little bit of a break from the overloaded fall calendars, but I still want to share tidbits about interesting events, so let’s talk about our libraries. Obviously the written word is near and dear to our hearts here at the magazines, but do you know how many programs our libraries offer? There are five locations in the county, and each has a full array of activities. There are way too many to reproduce here, but you can see a calendar for all locations at https://www.brunswickcountync.gov/160/Library. There are loads of book clubs, children’s programs, lifelong learners programs, tech support, movies, story time for children, and so much more.

January may not offer the best weather for outside activities, but that makes it the perfect time to check out your local library. — Lisa

January DEC 31

Noon Year’s Eve — Ocean Isle Beach

This family-friendly event lets you ring in the new year and still go to bed at a decent hour. Gather at Town Center Park, 11 E. Second St., from 11 am to 12:30 pm for music, dancing, crafts, and the countdown to noon..

JAN 3

Latin Dancing — LCAC

Salsa, bachata, and merengue the night away with Wilmington Latin Dance at this all-levels social dance. A beginner lesson will run from 7 to 7:30 pm, followed by open dancing. The dance is held at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Road.

JAN 6

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

The January program is “Treasure and Empire in the Civil War: The Panama Route, the West, and the Campaigns to Control America’s Wealth.”

Across North America, Civil War campaigns were waged over whether

the United States or the Confederacy would dominate lands, mines, and seaborne transportation networks of the country’s much needed mineral wealth. Guest Neil P. Chatelain, historian, professor, and author, delves into this thought-provoking topic which has never been discussed in our previous Round Table meetings. The group meets at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Registrations begin at 6:15 pm and the programs start at 7 pm. The visitor fee is $10 and may be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues, which importantly can include a spouse.

JAN 8

Cape Fear Civil War Round Table

The January program features Michael P. Zatarga, the author of “The Battle of Roanoke Island: Burnside and the Fight for North Carolina” in The History Press Civil War Sesquicentennial Series.

He will speak about the pivotal battle for control of North Carolina’s Outer Banks and the sound country. The program is held at Elebash Hall at the rear of St. John’s Episcopal Church at 1219 Forest Hills Drive in Wilmington, near Independence Mall. The church parking lot and entrance to the meeting room is

Be among the first to ring in the new year at Ocean Isle Beach’s Noon Year’s Eve at Town Center Park from 11 am - 12:30 pm

easily accessed via Park Avenue off of Independence Boulevard. The meeting begins at 7 pm and doors open at 6:30 pm.

JAN 13

Second Tuesday Talk

This month’s Southport Historical Society program welcomes John Moseley, Curator of Education and Outreach at the NC Maritime Museum at Southport.

John will present “Spirited Exertion in the Common Cause: The Cape Fear at War, July 1775 to January 1777,” exploring how political tension, militia activity, and conflict in the area helped shape North Carolina’s path to independence during the early years of the American Revolution. The talk is scheduled for 10 am at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., in Southport. Call 910-457-6237 to reserve your spot.

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

FEB 3

Art Show and Reception

This art show, hosted by the Southport Women’s Club and the City of Southport, will highlight works from South Brunswick High School students.

First place winners will advance to the district competition, and winners from that level advance to the state. The reception is 5-7 pm at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St.

FEB 3

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

Guest speaker and prolific author, David A. Powell will speak about “The Atlanta Campaign: Missed Opportunities.” In the summer of 1864, Atlanta became the linchpin of the South’s hopes and the North’s determination.

Each side was seeking victory. The city became the epicenter of a battle that became the turning point of the war,

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CALENDAR where lost opportunities and false hopes prevailed. It’s a chilling saga between two very determined armies.

The group meets at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Registrations begin at 6:15 pm and the programs start at 7 pm. The visitor fee is $10 and may be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues, which importantly can include a spouse.

FEB 6

“Professor Frank Gordon: 55 Years of Teaching” The Southport Historical Society presents this performance of an original work written by Society President, Liz Fuller, Ph.D. The performance opens the three-day Brunswick County Black History Month Symposium. Frank Gordon was born enslaved but became an educator with a 55-year career in Brunswick County. The show is free, but tickets are required; visit southporthistoricalsociety.org. The performance will be held at 6 pm at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St.

FEB 7 AND 14

For the Love of Frogs

Fort Fisher Aquarium leads two days of training for potential FrogWatch USA volunteers. You’ll learn how to identify identify frog and toad species by their calls, collect data and share findings with a national online database for scientists performing conservation research. Volunteers will need to attend both training sessions, 10 am to 4 pm on Feb 7 and 10 am to 1 pm on February 14. The sessions will be held at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

FEB 12

Coastal Consumer Showcase

The Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual event which highlights local businesses and the goods and services they offer. The Show is 4-7 pm at the Homer E. Wright Center at St. James (the Community Center), 4136 Southport-Supply Road (N.C. 211), and entry is free. There will be giveaways, samples, and a pick-aprize auction.

FEB 15

Darling Daughter Dance

Darling Daughter

WAVES 4 K.I.D.S. presents it’s 3rd annual -

WAVES 4 K.I.D.S. hosts this dance that’s the perfect opportunity for fathers and father figures to spend some time with their favorite girl. The dance is held at the Southport Community Building4-7 pm. Tickets are $40 and include red carpet photos, dancing and dessert.

Visit www.waves4kids.org for tickets and more information.

FEB 21

Dancing in DEfiance: A Night of Merriment and Rebellion Visitors will experience period music, dancing and a vignette of the march on Tryon’s house during the Stamp Act resistance in 1766. The reenactment will be fully immersive as visitors join the mob. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 1218. The merriment commences at the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, 8884 St. Philips Road, WInnabow (off N.C. 133), 5-8 pm. Sponsorships are available for covering the costs for food and beverages and shuttles to Russellborough. For more information email btfastrategicplan@gmail.com or call at 910-371-6613.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

DANCE

An opportunity for dads & dad figures to bring their favorite girl out for a memorable evening.

Attire: Semi-formal with dancing shoes!

Sunday, Sunday, February February 15th, 15th, 4-7 4-7 pm pm Southport Community Building

Odell WIlliamson Auditorium at Brunswick Community College

150 College Road NE, Bolivia

Jan 23 — Get Ready: The Motown Tribute Feb 6 — The Boss Project: The Premier Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band Feb 27 — Jim Witter: Feelin’ Groovy Show, Featuring Songs of Simon & Garfunkel Visit https://bccowa.com/ for tickets.

Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College 701 N. Third St., Wilmington

Jan 18 — Young People’s Concert — An instrument discovery zone opens at 2:30 pm, and the concert starts at 4 pm; for ages 6 and older.

Jan 22 — The North Carolina Symphony performs an All Mozart show.

Jan 24 — Trae Crowder Feb 4 — Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

223 E Bay St, Southport

Shoresound Production

Dinner Dinner -- Dessert Dessert -- DJ DJ Dancing Dancing -- Face Face Painting Painting Red Red Carpet Carpet Photo Photo -- Raffles Raffles Auctions Auctions -- Door Door Prizes Prizes

Photography By: Katie D Photography & RAW Imagery and More by Shae

Get your tickets now:

To support the mission of WAVES 4 K.I.D.S. & become an event sponsor call: Jennifer@828.230.1160 All proceeds benefit:

WAVES 4 K.I.D.S. a Federally Sanctioned 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization, helps children and teens under the care of the Brunswick County Department of Services by providing resources and services not available through public funds.

Feb 7 — The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra performs Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons Feb 11 — David Foster & Katherine McFee Feb 13 — An Evening with Sutton Foster Visit https://wilsoncentertickets. com for more information.

Thalian Hall

310 Chestnut St., Wilmington

Jan 2-11 The Opera House Theatre Company presents “Rock of Ages”

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$40 per person Scan the QR code to purchase or visit waves4kids.org

Jan 16-18 — The Willis Richardson Players perform “Purple Victorious” Jan 30 — Three American Troubadours Feb 5-15 — The Techmoja Dance and Theatre Company presents “The Scottsboro Boys” Feb 6-15 — The Thalian Association Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Orient Express” Check https://www.thalianhall.org/ calendar for more information.

CALENDAR

OPEN AIR MARKETS

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road, Belville Shop for produce, ice cream, and fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River. Hours are Fridays 10 am to 6 pm; and Sundays 11 am to 3 pm, except ice cream is available every day.

4th Friday Art Market

Shop among 30-plus vendors, eat, dance and enjoy spending time with friends and neighbors at this monthly market next to Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar (1175 Turlington Avenue, in Brunswick Forest). The market is open from 4-8 pm.!

ONGOING EVENTS

Friends of the Library Southport & Oak Island The Libraries are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 6 pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am - 6 pm; and Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm. The Once More used bookstore, at Southport Realty (727 N. Howe St.), with new-to-you books, is open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and Saturdays 10 am to noon. Donations accepted Tuesdays and Saturdays 10 am - noon.Visit https://folsoi.org/blog/ for information on summer youth programs.

Barbee Library, 8200 E. Oak Island Drive: Call 910-278-4283 for details on children’s story time and other programs. The Lifelong Learners Group meets at 10 am on Thursdays. Other programs offered at the library include chair yoga, one-on-one tech support on Wednesdays from 1-3 pm, and more.

Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., Southport: Call 910-457-6237 to register for programs. the Southport Historical Society’s Tuesday Talk is Nov 4 with Old Baldy Foundation’s Jake Grossman presenting “Digging for the Future Discovering and Reconstructing Old Baldy’s Glasis Wall.” The program is at 10 am at the library. One-on-one tech support is offered on Thursdays, 1-3 pm.

Southwest Brunswick County Library 94 U.S. 17, Carolina Shores

Plushie New Year’s Eve Part is Dec 31 (drop off plushie toys so they can party) and Basic Computer Classes on Jan 2 and 16 at 4 pm (registration required).

Join the As the Page Turns Book Club, the Beach Reads Book Club, or the Agatha Christie Book Club.

Boiling Spring Lakes VFW Post 10400 3161 George II Hwy (N.C. 87)

Taco Tuesdays are 3-7 pm (or until sold out!); Trivia Nights are the second and fourth Fridays for teams of four with registration starting at 6 pm; and bingo is on the first and third Thursdays with door opening at 5 pm and games starting at 6 pm.

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.

Oak Island Recreation Department Join the Striders Club at various locations and dates/times to get out and about with a group or try your hand at art with the Paintbrush Academy.

There are book clubs, kayak tours in the Davis Canal, surf fishing lessons, and much more. Visit https://parksrec.egov. basgov.com/oakislandnc for details on programs.

Franklin Square Art Gallery

The Gallery is open 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday and can be found at 130 E. West St., next to Franklin Square Park. Works in the 2025 Maritime Art Show will be on display through Nov. 15..

First Friday Gallery Walk — Southport The First Friday Gallery Walk is 5-7 pm in Southport at participating galleries, such as Lantana’s, The Rickey Evans Gallery, the Franklin Square Art Gallery, Artisans on Howe and the Intracoastal Realty Downtown Southport Office.

Stroll along and browse in the shops to

see what local artists have to offer.

Bingo at the Elks Lodge — Oak Island

Bingo games are on the second and fourth Tuesdays at the Lodge, 106 E. Dolphin Drive, Oak Island. Games are open to the public; no one under 16 and no outside food or drinks allowed.

Doors open to the public at 5:45 pm with games starting at 6:30 pm. Snacks and drinks available for purchase (cash or checks only). Progressive Jackpot and winner take all coverall.

Battleship North Carolina — near Leland Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year.

Visit https://battleshipnc.com/. The battleship site is at 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington (west side of the Cape Fear River).

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site 8884 St. Philips 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. .Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach

The Museum is open Thursday-Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm and Sundays from noon until 4 pm. Also open January 1819 for MLK Day and February 15-16 for President’s Day .Ingram Planetarium

7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach

The Planetarium is open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm; dome shows start on the hour from 11 am to 3 pm. Also open January 18-19 for MLK Day and February 15-16 for President’s Day Laser shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 6 pm and 7 pm.

Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule.

Leland Library

487 Village Road NE

Baby storytime is at 10 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and Pre-K

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

and older storytime is at 11 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

4th Friday Art Market

Shop among 30-plus vendors, eat, dance and enjoy spending time with friends and neighbors at this monthly market next to Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar (1175 Turlington Avenue, in Brunswick Forest). The market is open from 4-8 pm.

Town of Leland/Parks & Recreation

Check out https://www.townofleland.com/parks-recreation-and-cultural-resources for more information on classes and programs, including starting an art journal, pottery, gardening, writing creative nonfiction, acting, dance and more.

Wilmington River Tours

212 S. Water St., Wilmington

Tour the beautiful Cape Fear River and learn more about the area’s history and ecology. Sunset cruises include acoustic music Thursdays through Sundays! Tours are offered daily, to the north along historic downtown Wilmington, the USS North Carolina Battleship and Eagles Island on the even hours, and to the south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and past the shipyard on the odd hours; visit https://wilmingtonwatertours. net/ for schedules and to purchase tickets.

Art League of Leland (ALL) at the Leland Cultural Arts Center The group welcomes artists of all kinds and meets monthly (except in summer months) 4-6 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

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!

www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 55

5158 Elton Drive SE

102 W Brown Street

3 Beds | 3 Baths | 1,380 Sq Ft

Commercial Property

Southport | $365,000

A Fresh Start Begins at Home

4175 9th Street SE

A new year brings new possibilities—and there’s no better time to make a move. Whether you’re ready to sell and start a new chapter or searching for a place that fits your goals for the year ahead, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

With expert insight and a clear plan, we’ll help you turn fresh beginnings into real results in the year ahead.

Donna Findlay

DONNA FINDLAY dfindlayrealtor@gmail.com 910.269.3049

Southport | $749,000

241 Ash Road

Southport | $179,000

Southport | $549,000

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 787 Sq Ft

3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 1,742 Sq Ft

101 SW 17th Street

321 NE 60th Street

Oak Island | $299,000

Oak Island | $649,000

Vacant Lot

3 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,623 Sq Ft

Robert Carroll

ROBERT CARROLL robert@robertcarrollproperties.com 910.465.2717

Robert Carroll

PROPERTIES

319 N Howe Street, Southport, NC 28461 Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Visit us at www.RobertCarrollProperties.com www.SouthportMag.com /January /January 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 56