EDITOR
Jeffrey Stites
jeff@liveoakmediainc.com
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Lisa P. Stites
lisa@southportmag.com
LEAD DESIGNER
Liz Brinker
lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS
Chuck and Sue Cothran
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Louise Sheffield-Baccarny
Carla Edstrom
Patricia Langer
Jan Morgan-Swegle
Janet Fortney
Lisa P. Stites
Jeffrey Stites
PUBLISHER & SALES
Jeffrey Stites
Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine is published once a month by
Live Oak Media, Inc
Summer has come in with high heat and humidity, but while you’re lounging on the beach, at the pool, or in some shade, we’ve got a great issue to keep you occupied. We’re deadline driven here at the magazines, which means one of us is usually writing this inside cover brief, affectionally called the “blurb,” the night before we send the magazine to press. It makes for a busy night proofreading and putting on the finishing touches, but it gives us the chance to look at the issue as a whole instead of all its many parts. What stood out this month are the connections with community. We have a story about a local business owner making a documentary about Ocean Isle Beach, the town that stole his heart years ago. There’s a piece on an entrepreneur who saw a need and filled it by designing her own bathing suits. And an interview with a bestselling author making an appearance at Silver Coast helps us make a personal connection with the woman behind some really good summer reads. We also want to note that we think a great feature story happens when the writer gets out of the way and lets the subjects tell their own stories. We’ve tried to do just that, and we think you’ll enjoy what they have to say. — Lisa
The opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of the staff.
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email jeff@liveoakmediainc.com 910-471-7741
jeff@liveoakmediainc.com 910-471-7741 Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands
STORY BY LOUISE SHEFFIELD-BACCARNY, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Snow in July? At Ocean Isle Beach, NC? Well, not actual snow, but LainSnow is on everyone’s radar lately. Even the weatherman would agree that this brand is anything but icy. In fact, the forecast for LainSnow swimwear is hot, hot, hot!
Owner, Becca Ingle, naming the company after her daughter, Lainey Snow, struggled for years trying to find a bathing suit that she felt comfortable in while enjoying the beach and pool with her two small children. With daughter, Lainey, only wanting to wear long sleeve swim shirts at the time and son, Roman, fighting a sensory sensitivity with most swim trunks, Ingle failed time after time to find the perfect suit to fit the needs and style of her family. After Covid lockdown, the passing of her beloved mother and a nudge from the universe, Ingle found herself no longer searching for the perfect suit, but creating and selling it.
LainSnow officially launched online in April 2021 with the original “Ocean Isle” one piece in Sea Blue selling out in
just 30 minutes. Ingle credits social media, specifically Tik Tok, for helping her small business boom into an overnight international sensation after posting a video she took of the first customer she saw in person wearing LainSnow.
The sight of a neighbor boating
down the Laurinburg Canal at OIB was a moment she will never forget, giving her all the feels and getting her 3 million views. She recalls the beginning as crazy and chaotic with her suits selling out within literal seconds of posting them online. Becca, along with her family and friends, packed orders
themselves and took turns along with her team going back and forth to the post office every day with loads of merchandise to be mailed out. She commends the ladies of the USPS at Sunset Beach for their kindness and grace with her ever growing amount of daily parcels. Becca said she remembers personally labeling and dropping of at the post office
packages traveling farther and farther away from the Carolinas, spreading across the entire US including Alaska, then to Canada, India, South Africa and even Australia.
After taking sometimes 3 months to fill orders due to such high demand, LainSnow now has preorders to ensure customers get suits in a timely manner. All the shades of blue will be dropped in July so keep an eye out on social media and watch for some old favorite prints to be restocked periodically this summer.
Ocean Isle Beach residents and locals from neighboring coastal communities have been anticipating the opening of the LainSnow flagship store for quite
awhile. After a couple years of extensive remodel, upgrades and complete redesign of 1 Causeway Drive on OIB, LainSnow finally had their grand opening on Memorial Day Weekend this year. Many customers drove from hours away into town, lining up at 7 am to make sure they secured a spot for the ribbon cutting and in hopes to snag a special suit for the first time in person. With creative murals, bright colors and tropical island vibes, Becca’s Pinterest Board came to life and found its way into every customer’s selfies and social media stories about their anticipated shopping experi-
ence. Waiting in the long line may have been just as fun with a parking lot party outside including vendors offering food, jewelry, design your own trucker hat, face painting and tattoos, flowers, and hair styles and braids. Becca’s dad, husband Yeirdon, and son Roman also came to show support for the girls and mingle with the crowd of family, friends and fans. LainSnow shares a space in the building with Five Hills Realty, Sandollars Bar and Grill, Buoy Bowls, Blondiez Donuts, Carolina Premier Properties-Crystal Babson, and Trifecta Builders. The storefront will be open 7 days a week, 10-6 pm, all summer long. Stop in and you may find yourself as an extra in one of Lainey’s famous Tik Tok
videos.
Now, as a mom of three, she not only added baby Koa to her family but has added Golf and Athletic Wear, hats, shirts and cover ups, and the sister brand Coast & Ro Scooter Luggage. She continues her partnerships with luxury hotels such as the Seven Stars Resort and Spa in Turks and Caicos and the Bitter End Yacht Club in the Virgin Islands where LainSnow will have a pop up and Becca will blog
about the resort and her travels.
Followers joke asking “What coast is Koa on?” but it’s true. One day Becca may be at home in Brunswick County dropping Lainey off for dance, on the road with Yeirdon traveling to cheer on Roman’s baseball team and the next day she’s jet setting with Lainey and Koa, sound machine in tow, for Miami Swim Week. She is an ordinary mom fulfilling extraordinary dreams coast to coast.
In year four, the original three shades of blue, blush and tan line up alongside every color of the rainbow adding in cotton candy, tie dye, polka dots and stripes just to name a few popular prints. New designs for men, women, children and their Sandy Beach dolls, are constantly being added to make matching with your family fun and still comfortable in the same buttery soft material that broke the internet in LainSnow’s infancy.
Followers are now asked to help name the new designs and the winner will get a free suit. Whether your taste is pastels or neons, straps or strapless, Kiawah tops or Holden bottoms, there is something for everyone. Whatever your style, it all started with the one piece Ocean Isle!
STORY BY LISA STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
New York Times bestselling author Karen White is coming to the Silver Coast Winery, 6680 Barbeque Rd, Ocean Isle Beach, on July 25 for a meet and greet and book signing. It’s part of a regular lineup of such events hosted by Pelican Bookstore in Sunset Beach (check the calendar pages for a list). White’s latest book, “That Last Carolina Summer” makes its debut just a few days before the event. Described on the author’s website as “an unforgettable family drama and mystery about the unbreakable bonds of family and the gift of second chances,” the latest from this prolific author taps into Southern culture and the family relationships that form the foundation for many of her stories. We had a chance to chat with Karen about her writing process, how the South works in her stories almost as its own character, and what to expect from this novel.
“I was lucky,” Karen said. “Both of my parents are from Mississippi. I was lucky because I was able to look at the South as an outsider because I never lived in the South until I married my Yankee husband and we moved to Georgia. My dad was an executive with Exxon, so we got to live all over the world — Venezuela, London, the Netherlands…but that’s what made summer vacation, when I visited my maternal grandmother in Mississippi, and all my cousins and aunts and extended family…I was able to see the South from that perspective. I think if I had been raised in it, I might not have understood or appreciated how special it is.”
She said it was the neighbors knocking on her grandparents’ door to share some extra tomatoes, and running around barefoot and going downtown where the druggist knew whose daughter she was and gave her a soda. She said that was just an unusual, different kind of thing that she thinks she would have taken for granted if she were born and raised in the South.
Karen is usually publishing a book a year, and that’s when she makes appear-
ances at book signings and other events. And how did that tour manage to find Brunswick County, North Carolina?
“You’d have to ask my publicist,” Karen said. “She has all these connections with libraries and book clubs, and she always does a great job of placing me where I have readers, or, maybe they don’t know me, but they’re readers. And this introduces them to Karen White. It’s nice going to familiar places, because I am going to recognize people. I’m going to know the bookstores or the librarians, but it’s really nice also to go to new places and think gosh, I’ve never heard of this place or been here before, but I have people here.”
There are actually two Karen White books coming out this year, the other one, called “The Lady on Esplanade,” the third in the Royal Street series, is set in New Orleans. Karen said that caring for elderly parents kind of derailed her writing for a year, and now she is catching up.
“I like to bring new readers into the fold,” she said of traveling to promote her books. “I used to joke with my mom
at the church she went to. They would say turn and greet your neighbors because strangers are only friends you haven’t met. That’s kind of how I feel. If you love to read, then let me meet you. I have 36 books — there’s bound to be one that you’ll enjoy. Meeting my tried and true readers is really special, because when you’re an author and you’re creating these characters in your head, they’re very real, and it’s so neat when you meet readers who have read everything, or just a few books, and they start talking about these characters as if they were real, and you’re like, oh my gosh, they’re real to me too. That kind of makes them even more real.”
When she is ready to start a new project and bring new characters to life, Karen said she doesn’t plan out the whole plot or use outlines.
“I have absolutely no idea where the book is going when I start. It makes it so much harder and I have tried to do it
in a more reasonable way but that’s just not how my writing and my creative brain works. I always start with the main character. I know who she is, her internal and external conflicts, where she comes from, and I’ll have the setting, because the setting to me is always a big part of the book, a main character, actually. And I kind of go from there,” she said.
And even though she has spent so much time with these characters she created, Karen said when it’s time to wrap up a book, it’s time.
“Writing a book is hard,” she said. “Normally by the time I get to the end, I am so ready to say okay, you’re on your own now.” She said that her book tours are usually about a year after she has turned over a completed novel, so she has had some distance and can enjoy being with the characters once more. “I get to revisit them again when I talk about them,” she said.
Asked if there is one book she is most proud of, or if there was a point when she could call herself a successful writer, Karen quickly said she was still working on the second part of that question, then said each and every book has a different feeling, a different writing process, and was usually geared to where she is in life. She settled on “The Last Night in London,” saying it was her Covid book that no one even knows came out.
“I am so enormously proud of that, because it takes so much of my own life and puts it there — the seven years I lived in London. The building is sort of front and center of that story. It has that rich history of England, and I also threw in the Deep South, all of these elements I love into one book.”
Karen said the release was delayed, and then it came out but she didn’t go on tour.
“It was kind of sad. It was what I consider a beautiful book, and probably one of my best books,” she said.
But she said “That Last Carolina Summer” is a special one as well. She had been dealing with health needs of her elderly parents, and while the book isn’t about that, she said it is central to what one of the characters is going through. She said she remembers thinking that she didn’t want to write a book about it, but she did want to explore the struggle of being an adult dealing with an ailing parent.
“The struggle is real, and I thought I could really put some emotion into that,
so I am proud of that book as well.”
While promoting her latest release, Karen is already working on her next book and has another idea “percolating” in the background as well.
“My best writing, and I say that with air quotes, usually happens in my head before I actually start the book,” she said. “It’s usually when I’m working on another book, so the book I am working on right now is Book 4 in my New Orleans series, which will probably be out in 2026, but the book that’s starting to simmer in the back of my head is my next big single title.” She said it was like seeing ghosts, when you see something out of the corner of your eye, and you turn your head and it disappears — that’s what happens with her book ideas. “If I start really thinking about it, it’s going to go away, so I just kind of let it simmer a bit until I’m ready to capture it.
“I love writing about families, especially Southern families because it’s what I know,” she said. “I particularly love to write about sisters and the sister relationship. I think there’s something very special about that, and it’s funny since I only have three brothers.” She said her mother was one of five, and her aunts were “beloved” to her.
“I just remember my happiest memories, and these are the voices I hear in my head, when I would be at my grandmother’s house, sitting at her kitchen table and listening to my mom and her sisters, and my grandmother and her sis-
ter, and all the female relatives crowded around my grandmother’s tiny kitchen, just doing their Southern sister girl talk.” She said she always knew that God had gifted her with so many blessings, but the one thing he forgot was to give her a sister.
“For writers, it’s not to what we know. It’s to write about the lives we wished we had, and that’s why my books are always, always about sisters,” she said.
Look for copies of “That Last Carolina Summer” on July 22, and “The Lady on Esplanade” coming out in November. Find the link to buy tickets for Karen White’s July 25 book signing at the Silver Coast Winery at https://pelicanbookstore.com/july-25-2025-karenwhite-book-signing/. Tickets are $45 and include a copy of the book, a glass of wine and light hors d’oeuvres, and the event starts at 5:30 pm. About Karen White,
With almost two million books in print in 15 different languages, Karen White is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of 36 novels. Her latest releases include The Author’s Guide to Murder (November 2024), a collaboration with bestselling authors Beatriz Williams and Lauren Willig, and the soon-to-be-released That Last Carolina Summer (July 2025) and The Lady on Esplanade (November 2025), the third book in her New Orleans-set mystery series. She grew up in London but now lives with her husband near Atlanta, Georgia.
With almost two million books in print in fifteen different languages, Karen White is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of 36 novels.
Raised in a house full of brothers, Karen’s love of books and strong female characters first began in the third grade when the local librarian placed The Secret of the Old Clock, a Nancy Drew Mystery, in her hands. Although most of her growing up years were spent in London, England, Karen’s roots run deep in the South where many of her novels are set. Her intricate plot lines and compelling characters charm and captivate readers with just the right mix of family drama, mystery, intrigue and romance.
Not entirely convinced she wanted to be a writer, Karen first pursued a career in business and graduated cum laude with a BS in Management from Tulane University. Ten years later, in a weak moment, she wrote her first book. “In the Shadow of the Moon” was published in August, 2000. Her books—referred to as “grit lit” (Southern Women’s Fiction)—have since been nominated for numerous national contests including the SIBA (Southeastern Booksellers Alliance) Fiction Book of the Year.
Karen’s latest releases include “The Author’s Guide to Murder” (November 2024), a collaboration with authors Beatriz Williams and Lauren Willig and “The House on Prytania” (May 2023), the second book in her New Orleans-set mystery series.
When not writing, Karen spends her time reading, bird watching, and avoiding cooking. Karen and her husband have two grown children and a spoiled Havanese dog, Sophie, and divides her time between Atlanta, Georgia and the northwest Florida coast.
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
The Hawaiian word “Kahuna” usually refers to a person, one who is an expert in a field, the best of the best. But Andrew Spaugh sees it as describing Ocean Isle Beach, the town that took hold of his heart and imagination as a boy during annual summer vacations. He sees Ocean Isle Beach as the best of the best and created a surf wear brand called OIB Kahuna based on that idea. His latest venture, though, seeks to give back to his community by helping to preserve its history. His documentary, “Ocean Isle Beach: A Journey Through Time And Tide” tells the story of Ocean Isle Beach through interviews with long-time residents and new visitors alike. And it is nearing completion.
Andrew, who moved from High Point to Ocean Isle Beach in 2012, has a history with the town that goes back much longer. “This is the beach that when we grew up, like going to vacation, this is where we always went to,” he said. “God, the earliest memory was probably like 10 years old or something.”
He said his family would rent a house on the beach each summer with another family. “And so what we’d do is that we’d get with our best friends, they’re still great friends with us, the Mills family. They were like, hey, it’s easy if we just go together. Not to mention their kids and us were very similar in age, like my best friend then was Chuck and we’re the exact same age. And they still come down to vacation too, which
is great,” Andrew said.
“I just remember the stress of getting down here, like driving down 220 back then was hilarious and you had to go through all the little towns,” he recalled. “So that was the best, you have that memory of us coming down 220, like the whole family’s going together. Even when we were backed up in traffic, it was just so much fun just being in the car with everybody then.
“Then you get there, that feeling of we all got out of the car…and now I’m my dad’s age, so I now I know where he’s at, but then I was like, why does the guy seem so stressed, dude? This is so much fun.
“We would just get out and the first thing we do you run out, you run right up into the vacation rental. You know, you as soon as you get in the house, you’re just like, ahhhhhh it smells like the beach. First of all, coming to the beach, it smells like the beach. And it does. You can smell it the difference. And meanwhile, the parents are like, my dad and mom were very good, so they’re like, okay, okay, let’s just get the luggage out and stick it in the house. And then it’s alright let’s go ahead and just go, like, everybody, just go to the beach. And we’d go straight to the beach. Even if we got here early, we would just go straight to the beach.”
excitement one bit. “It’s still like that now. Even my children, we live right across the street (from his surf shop on Beach Drive), we’re so spoiled, it takes five minutes to get there. And I’m actually going later this afternoon. The back of the van is just covered in sand, and we’re like, it’s the beach, that’s what happens,” he said. “But that was that feeling, like even now, and that’s, you know, almost 40 years ago, still, like, it gets me. Later today, I’m going to drive across the bridge again, and I’m still going to be like, ah, this so…I mean, you know, it’s just…you never want to lose that feeling of kind of like being a tourist. I mean, it’s just seriously the greatest feeling in the world.”
Andrew said he knows he’s not the only one who fell head over heels for Ocean Isle Beach, and he wanted to create something that would give them a connection to the town.
Being permanent resident of his favorite vacation spot hasn’t damped Andrew’s Winter doesn’t keep Andrew and his family off the beach!
“I remember missing it so bad. I would have loved to see pictures if I couldn’t be here, and I bet other people feel the same way. So OIB Kahuna started as a Facebook and Instagram page, Andrew said. “And then a couple years later, I was like, you know what? I already have experience with merchandise, I could make a hoodie. That’s the first product, a hoodie. The reason being is I was like, well, people who come to vacation here usually live
Mayor Smith pulled out treasures for Andrew in colder places. And people who do live here know that they need an actual hoodie in like January and February. So that went really well. The first batch, I think we sold like 12, which made us ecstatic.”
Then came the idea of making a film. “I want to film a documentary for Ocean Isle Beach because no one’s done it on video,” Andrew said. “There’s been books written, and some of them go way, way, way back, which is really good, but it’s before the island was Ocean Isle Beach.
“So I’ve been wanting to do this, and recently it’s gotten kind of on fast forward. So then I believe Miss Virginia had passed, and I was like, oh man, we’re gonna start losing individuals who were here and have memories of when the original, town started. It’s a perfect time because now there’s more change going on,” he said.
So Andrew started seeking out and setting up interviews on video with some of the town’s long-time residents. He called upon Ocean Isle Beach Mayor Debbie Sloan Smith, and she was happy to participate.
“I walk in and she’s showing us photos and just starts talking, and I’m like, well, I haven’t hooked up my mic yet, so I’m hooking up my mic, haven’t leveled it yet, I’m like, well, we’re gonna get what we get,” he said. “So that
part I think is going to make it a lot of fun because it’s going to feel more real, because that’s what this town is. You don’t want something so polished that people can’t connect to it.”
Many people have been happy to talk the walk down memory lane in front of Andrew’s camera. “One of the most fun was Jim Culpepper and Barbara Parker. These are people who grew up here. Her family was from Parker Point, which is, I think, the far east end of the island down near the ferry landing. And Jim is a Culpepper, he’s been here forever,” Andrew said. “We were setting up gear and they just started talking. And it was great, they were just two friends sharing stories, which is what you want.
“And then from there, you decipher facts, basically, because the dates they say, may, or may not be right. But it’s good when you hear one story and I’m talking to a friend who comes in the shop and like, oh, and they repeat the same story. You’re like, oh, so this has got some truth to it.
“Now the real goal is to get the Williamson family. If I can get them together even better because then they’re all sharing family stories, which is what you want.”
But the story of Ocean Isle Beach is more than just history. Andrew is collecting stories from visitors as well. He’s set up each week at the Pure Markets summer market grabbing comments from passers by.
“We have a little tent set up where people can to stop in and I’m asking, hey, we’re filming a documentary, would you like to be a part of it?” Andrew said he plans to ask everyone how they found Ocean Isle, how long they’ve been coming, and what they like about it. “You have so many that this is their first year. Or other ones will stop by and say oh, I’ve been coming here for 30 years,” he said.
When it’s finished, the documentary will move from Ocean Isle Beach’s past to present to future. “The structure is we start with how it was founded. That’s pretty simple. Everybody has told that story a lot, but we want to hit that. But then we go into something about how hurricanes have changes the island, the landscape and how they affect us. Then that blends to how the community came together after one of the hurricanes. And then we go into the community aspect, how the community is here, which blends into a lot of the heyday, which was like the ‘80s and ‘90s. We got a lot of people who have those memories during time and that transitions into now. You have that growth, then we go into how is it now, and then we go into how do we think OIB might be in the future and what we hope it to be,” Andrew said.
The plan is to have the documentary film and its accompanying coffee table book, released by this November, but the summer of market interviews may push the timeline back a bit.
This project was originally funded with a Kickstarter campaign, which is still available and offers rewards like special access to behindthe-scenes footage and tickets to the eventual premiere screening.
“I want to hold myself accountable,” Andrew said. “We want to get it premiered somewhere for sure. I do have friends who actually own a theater, so I already talked to them, and they’re like, we can make that happen.”
Near the beginning of this project two years ago, Andrew met a couple of film students in from James Madison University, Chloe and Jake, that were in town on vacation, and they’re now helping with filming and editing and getting the documentary infant of as many eyes a possible.
“They already know that process, because they’ve already done films and then had to get distributed to get it funded,” Andrew explained.
But that’s all in the future. For now, Andrew is having a blast getting to know the people who have made his favorite beach spot what it is today.
“The best part is hearing these stories,” he said, “like watching Jim and Barbara talk back and forth, having Debbie pull out a document, and just hearing these obscure stories, that’s been by far the most fun.
“And not to mention, seeing their faces and how excited they are to be able to tell these stories.”
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Whenyou head onto one of Brunswick County’s beaches you’ll look out over people in beach chairs and under canopies and children playing in the sand and splashing in the water, but you may not notice that just under the surface there are nests full of eggs laid by the sea turtles who share our oceanfront and need it to keep their species going. On Holden Beach, a dedicated group of volunteers widely known as the Turtle Patrol help keep these nests safe and educate locals and visitors about variety of sea turtles coming to local beaches each summer.
Officially named the Holden Beach Turtle Watch Program, the Turtle Patrol is a volunteer, nonprofit conservation organization operating under the authority of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Pat Cusack holds the state permit under which the Turtle Patrol operates and explained what the group does during turtle season on Holden Beach.
“Starting May 1, we ride our ATV on the beach every morning starting at 5 am looking for crawls or nests made overnight,” Cusack said. “When a nest
is found, we locate the egg chamber and mark the nest, which then incubates for 50-85 days, the average being 55 days. Usually, beginning in July, we get the nests ready for hatching and nest emergence at 50 days and monitor the nest every evening until the nest hatches and hatchlings emerge.”
This year, the first two turtle nests were discovered on May 22. According to Cusack, as off press time, the number of nests found had risen to 10. He said that’s a bit behind recent
years, but not out of the ordinary at all. “Sea turtle nesting typically goes up and down and this may be a low nest year. It is still too early in the season, so nothing to worry about,” he said.
“We also have a Stranding Team that is on call 24/7/365 that handles any stranded — sick, injured, or dead turtles) — and any nesting females during nesting season,” he added.
If you’ve not seen a sea turtle, you may be surprised at how very large they are, and at how long they tend to live. Cusack explained the differences between the four species that have been known to nest on Holden Beach.
“Loggerhead sea turtles are the most common sea turtles encountered and grow to 33-45 inches in carapace length, 250-300 pounds, and live to 80 years. Green sea turtles have increased the number of nests the last few years
and grow to 33-45 inches in carapace length, 240-420 pounds, and live to 80 years. Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles, the most endangered sea turtles, nest occasionally in North Carolina and grow to 23-26 inches carapace length, 70108 pounds, and live to 30+ years. Leatherback sea turtles usually only make 1-5 nests in the state each year, grow to 4.3-5.9 feet in carapace length, 660-2000 pounds, and live 30+ years,” he said.
The Turtle Patrol was founded in 1989 by Judy Bryan with the help of her husband, Rick, and four or five volunteers. She ran the operation out of her garage on Holden Beach’s west end. Today, the Turtle Patrol boasts 105 members, 70 fully active, regular members, 17 senior members who used to be fully active members but have chosen to limit their time and activities, and 18 trainees who will be “in training” for the first year on the patrol, according to communication committee member Donna McGowan.
Because sea turtles are protected under the Endangered Species Act, Turtle Patrol volunteers must follow strict guidelines from NCWRC while working on the beach with the adult turtles and hatchlings.
“The trainees come on board in April, just before the beginning of our sea turtle season, and get a demonstration and orientation of what our responsibilities and tasks include. As soon as turtle nesting begins, they get on-the-job training and close supervision for both the nesting and hatching beach activities until the turtle season
ends in October,” McGowan said. “If trainees meet all established experience requirements by the end of the turtle season, they will become regular members the next year.”
This season, the Turtle Patrol will be cooperating with two UNCW graduate student researchers. The Holden Beach Turtle Patrol has an endowment with UNCW in honor of founder Judy Bryan to support graduate students at UNCW majoring in marine biology, with a preference for sea turtle research. This year’s recipients, Jamie Clark and Caroline VanDuzer, are both studying aspects of local sea turtle populations.
“One of the students is studying how to determine the age of a sea turtle while it is alive, which would be a huge benefit since currently age can only be determined with dead animals. The other student is studying aerobics involved during a sea turtle dive
between two different species, Kemps Ridley and Green sea turtles,” Cusack said. “Fellowship recipients have typically not been studying sea turtles we work with and it is good to be able to help them with their projects.”
This year’s trainee roster is full, McGowan said that if people want to join for bext season, they can send an email to coordinator@hbturtlewatch.org, or click on the MENU BOX on the website home page and select “Contact Us” and fill out the online form.
Even if you aren’t interested in the training commitment to become a full member of the Turtle Patrol, residents and visitors can help to keep Holden Beach turtle friendly in several ways.
— Be careful with lights on the beachfront. Turn off outdoor house lights during the sea turtle nesting and
hatching season. When walking on the beach at night, keep lights (cell phones and flashlights, flash from cameras) at a minimum. Don’t shine lights on turtles and nest areas. At night, adult female and hatchling sea turtles are disturbed by artificial light, including streetlights, flashlights, and camera flashes. Females may return to the ocean and not nest, and hatchlings may become disoriented and head inland to the lights instead of heading to the ocean.
— Fill in any holes (turtles can fall in and be unable to climb out) and pick
up any trash on the beach (which you should be doing anyway, really.)
—If you come across a nesting sea turtle, do not approach because they are easily scared. Call the Turtle Patrol Stranding Team at 910-754-0766 so they can come out and protect the turtle. Be quiet and stay behind the turtle with no lights.
If you run across the Turtle Patrol on the beach, don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you might have about our turtle visitors — members love to share their knowledge and excitement about what they do.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES
Living so close to the sea, who hasn’t dreamed of running off and going pirate. Sailing the seven saes, blasting away with cannons, saying “aaaaarrrrrrr” a lot -- it all seems lie a great life. While you may not be able to sail away under the black flag, you and your family can get mighty piratey at the Museum of Coastal Carolina during the annual Pirate Week, coming up July 6-11. Here’s the schedule of events. We’re sure you’ll find something to put a little hop in your peg leg.
Sunday July 6
Pirate Week Kickoff! – Carolina Cutthroat Krewe and Sword Circle
Carolina Cutthroat Krewe @ 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm
Sword Circle @ 12 pm and 2:30pm
Monday July 7
Cookie Archaeology by Christine Brin, Maritime Museum of Beaufort – 11:30 am
Sword Circle – 12 pm and 2:30 pm
Pirate Ghost Walk – 7 pm
Tuesday July 8
Sword Circle Shows – 12 pm and 2:30 pm
Queen Anne’s Revenge Lab Presentation, Museum Lecture Hall – 3 pm
Christopher Downey, Pirat e Author, Sandbar Lecture – 5:30 pm
Wednesday July 9
Pirate Town of Ocean Isle Beach Scavenger Hunt – 10 am
Pirate Author Adam Morrow, Tabling – 10 am-4 pm
Thursday July 10
Stede Bonnet, Black Sails Adventure – 10 am-4 pm
W eapons Demos at 12pm and 3pm
Friday July 11
Jack Sparrow, Black Sails Adventure – 10 am-4 pm
Weapons Demos at 12 pm and 3 pm
Wilmington’s Cape Fear Civil War Round Table will bring the community a “Civil War Fair” on Thursday, July 10 beginning at 7 pm at Elsbeth Hall of St John’s Episcopal Church, 1219 Forest Hills Drive in Wilmington. Members and friends of the round table will exhibit authentic uniforms, weapons, accouterments and other artifacts of the Civil War experience. The round table features a year-round program that showcases the talents and interests of the members during the summer months. Typically, these member forums highlight presentations about books written by members or presentations about topics of which they have special interests or knowledge, such as historical paintings. The club has also done actual round table discussions, similar to seminar type discussions about specific topics. The Civil War Fair concept is a variation on these themes.
owned and operated Shiloh Farm of Pitt County, an educational living history site centered on an 1827 plantation home he restored. The site also included a corn crib, slave quarters, smokehouse, tobacco barn and blacksmith shop that he built and operated.
For this special meeting, displays will be set up around the large room and members will discuss their collections and answer questions as those who attend will be free to walk around and stop at various stations.
A friend of the round table, Marty Thompson, was born in Johnston County, North Carolina, but has been a resident of Pitt County since 1994. He has been a student of history in general, and The War Between The States in particular, his entire life. One of his earliest memories is admiring the bayonet that belonged to one of his ancestors, stuck between the boards of his grandparents’ wash house, as he stirred the lard pot at hog killing time. (That bayonet now hangs on his office wall). Thus far Marty has identified 30 direct blood relatives that served in the Confederate Army, including three great-great grandfathers that served in the 5th North Carolina State Troops, two of which were wounded at Cedar Creek. One of those wounded was also captured and imprisoned at Point Lookout. Yet another served in the 40th NC State Troops (Artillery) at Fort Fisher and Fort Holmes on Bald Head Island, where he died of disease in 1864.
For several years Marty
Marty’s position in the Biomedical Engineering department of a major medical center, and his interest in the experience of his wounded ancestors, inspired him to focus on 19th century medicine. Since 2021, he has served as Regimental Surgeon with the 7th NC State Troops and the 5th NC State Troops reenactment groups and sets up his display of authentic medical instruments at various Living History events in eastern North Carolina. He has spoken to numerous groups including various historical societies, state historic sites and SCV camps. Marty has assembled an extensive collection of 19th century medical items including surgical, bloodletting and pharmacy tools. He is a member of the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and The Society of Civil War Surgeons and serves on the Board of the Eastern Carolina Village and Farm Museum in Greenville, North Carolina.
Byron Hovey is a longtime active member of the round table and a dedicated re-enactor with the 26th NC regiment. He has been a member of the re-enactor regiment since 1997. The reenacting regiment began with a small group of descendants of men who actually served in the regiment during the Civil War. Byron reports that as the hobby of reenacting grew, it did as well, and it took part in many large reenactments. Byron will display uniform articles, accoutrements, and a rifle musket and a revolver.
CFCWRT member William Jordan, a talented and expert re-enactor cook, will offer some savory samples from his
“campfire.” William re-enacts the role of a sutler. Sutlers were civilians who followed the armies and supplied individual soldiers with foodstuffs ranging from oysters, sausages, eggs, flour, lemons to cheese and butter. They also supplied all sorts of everyday items such as hair brushes, buttons, boot and shoe polish, needles, thread, etc. And, although it was mostly illegal, they sold whiskey, brandy and other liquors to the troops. Most were attached to a regiment or brigade and usually printed or minted their own tokens or scrip to ensure that soldiers would come back to the sutler to spend more of his money. Fortified by the sutlers, when circumstances allowed, soldiers were able to cook some pretty decent meals.
William regularly prepares meals at reenactments and special events such as a massive feast at the Eastern Carolina Village and Farm Museum in Greenville. William and wife Kim prepared a feast
of turkey, pork tenderloin, boiled ham and corned beef for 47 people at the museum’s “Celebration of Trades and Skills of the 1800s.” Guests included the Pitt County Commissioners. And it was all done over the campfire!
William and Kim’s son, David, will also present at the fair. David is a dedicated and talented re-enactor who plays several different roles including Revolutionary War soldiers, both Union and Confederate infantry, cavalry and artillery. Now a strapping 17-year-old lacrosse player, David started his reenacting as a drummer boy and has demonstrated drum calls to the round table in the past.
Will Murray, an Iraq War veteran, is also a dedicated re-enactor. Will does many different reenactment roles, including a WWII sailor on the USS North Carolina. For the Civil War Fair, Will is going to demonstrate the uniform, weapons and kit of a corporal in the 5th NC Infantry.
The Civil War Fair will be a great opportunity to learn from re-enac-
tors about the history of the war and also to learn about the concrete facts of soldiers’ existence: what they wore, what they fought with, what they ate, how they were cared for when they became sick or wounded, and more.
Make plans to come and learn about the Civil War through the medium of the artifacts of a soldier’s everyday life. The meeting will take place on Thursday evening, July 10, beginning at 7 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm. As usual, the meeting will be held in Elsbeth Hall at the rear of St. John’s Episcopal Church at 1219 Forest Hills Drive in Wilmington. The church parking lot and entrance to the meeting room is easily accessed via Park Avenue off of Independence Boulevard. Bring a friend!
For more information about membership in the Cape Fear Civil War Round Table, go to http://www. cfcwrt.org and pick “Join/Rejoin.”
See you there!
STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM
weaving is an essential ancient craft that dates back at least 10,000 years to the Neolithic era, according to archeological findings. Early weavers utilized natural materials like grasses, reeds, and vines, using techniques passed down by generations, such as coiling and twining. Originally utilitarian and crucial in everyday use, basket weaving has since evolved into an artistic expression, with modern makers exploring new materials and complex forms.
Taking a class with friends for fun 20 years ago has turned weaving into a passion for local basket weaver Carol Szot. After moving here from a highstress government job, Carol met with friends to learn a new craft. “As I met our new neighbors, many of the ladies were excited about a basket class that was being taught by Mary Brown, another neighbor, at the Oak Island Senior Center,” Carol said. “I couldn’t believe I would consider basket weaving, but I wanted to join my friends in something fun. I’ve been weaving ever since. Other than the two or three classes I had with Mary, I am self-taught.”
With various materials for weaving available to use, Carol mainly uses reeds. “There are many types of materials that are used for basket weaving. I use reed versus pine needles or sweetgrass. Because my pieces are
displayed and sold in a gallery, I try to design the size, colors, and shape of the basket that would appeal to others. However, I often just want to try something new, either a new design or technique, and do not consider whether it would appeal to others. I usually learn a new process via a book or instructions from a master weaver but make it my own either through its application or overall basket design,” she said. “I have a huge closet full of reeds of all sizes and colors, as well as wood bases and accessories for the baskets. I go idea hunting in the closet or through my books. Many do not make it to completion but those that do, I usually like. There are many tools such as a dremel, saws, types of cutters, and reed packers to help keep
shops,” said Carol. “I am proud to say that we have introduced basketweaving to many and found some very talented people. I have four men who have joined the classes as well.”
Carol’s baskets are for sale, and she also accepts commission work. “As a member of the Artisans Association, I participate in the Artisans Gallery on Howe in Southport. The organization also holds at least three retail events around the community. The next one is June 13-14 at the Homer Wright Event Center (formerly St. James Community Center) on Southport-Supply Road (N.C. 211). Our Holiday Boutique will be on November 7 and 8 at the Event Center.”
Born in Philadelphia, Carol enjoys a quieter lifestyle now. After raising their son and working in the fastpaced environment of Northern Virginia for nearly 30 years, Carol retired with her husband to the coast, adopting our more casual pace for retirement. “After all that stress, we decided to look for a quieter, calmer place to retire. Several homeowners in our small community had discovered the Southport area, specifically St. James. So we decided to check it out. We found a piece of property on the golf course, with a pond, and made it our new home.”
With 20 years of weaving experience behind her, Carol also teaches others her craft. “I do teach small classes in my home studio and also have given classes for the Artisans’ non-profit organization, Stepping Up for Arts, which sponsors many work-
You can reach Carol by email at cszot417@gmail.com.
BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK
Summer is in full swing, and we’re on the water every day — and the fish are biting! Although the fishing has been productive, June brought a persistent Bermuda High that kept steady winds blowing for nearly 21 days. These conditions made it difficult, if not impossible, to fish offshore or even reach the ocean. It was unlike anything we’ve experienced before. The good news? The pattern is finally breaking, and July is shaping up to be an exciting month on the water.
The red drum and flounder bite should continue to be excellent. We’ve primarily been fishing with live bait — small menhaden or finger mullet — on a Carolina rig. Productive areas include spots along the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), where structure and ledges offer fish protection from the current. Drift a bait past one of these spots and you’ll likely find aggressive bites from red drum and large flounder.
Though flounder are currently under a harvest closure, they still provide exciting catch-and-release action. For another productive option, target the oyster beds around Buzzards Bay — especially those with good tidal flow from main creeks. These areas have less current
than the river, making them ideal for fishing a popping cork with either live bait or artificial shrimp.
Spanish mackerel fishing should remain strong along the beaches throughout July, with bluefish frequently mixed in. Early mornings are ideal — look for birds working over glass minnows driven to the surface by feeding fish. By the end of the month, tarpon action will begin to heat up. Look for them near the hot hole, on the shoals, and along tidelines where bait congregates. Rig up with a 60# leader, a large egg sinker, and a live menhaden for a chance at the fish of a lifetime — it takes patience, but the reward is well worth it.
Looking for a fun outing? Use your inshore gear to build a miniature king rig
Captain Steele Park, a US Navy Veteran, has been fishing the oceans, rivers, and lakes of southeastern NC since he was 7 years old and knows these waters like the back of his hand. He calls Southport home and captains the Catherine Anne Sportfishing & Excursions fleet. For more information please call at 910-620-9919
with #6 treble hooks. Catch small menhaden in the creeks, head out to the nearshore artificial reefs, and slow troll them — you’ll have a blast catching big Spanish mackerel.
In the 15–30 mile range, slow trolling live bait on king rigs can produce mahi, king mackerel, barracuda, and more. Although gag grouper season is closed, you can still fish ledges, coral bottom, and rock piles in 100–120 feet of water for some great scamp grouper action. This time of year also offers prime African pompano fishing around reefs and wrecks in 90–110 feet of water, especially near the Frying Pan Tower. Always keep a bait suspended from a balloon behind the boat while bottom fishing — it gives you a great shot at landing kings, mahi, or cobia.
July tends to bring slower fishing in the Gulf Stream due to hot, fast-moving water. Still, opportunities remain for quality bites from big mahi, sailfish, and marlin. We’re using small ballyhoo rigged on circle hooks, paired with teasers to entice billfish strikes.
Though the action isn’t as hot right now, late August and September will bring a strong return to form. For now, you might not get a high volume of bites, but what you do get will be top quality. Tight lines and good luck out there this month!
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BY NICOLE WELLER LPGA/PGA GOLF TEACHING PROFESSIONAL
Nicole Weller instructs local area golfers at Compass Pointe Golf Club in Leland. Feel free to submit your question or topic for the Nicole’s Notes column via her website ‘Contact Nicole’ page. For more information on Nicole and her tips / videos, visit www.nicoleweller.com.
Theworld has become full of ‘helpfulness’ and often times that help isn’t requested…a computer or phone app that provides advice when not asked, a family member or even a stranger trying to be helpful on your task you’re doing or even another golfer stopping at your driving range station with some unsolicited advice. A year or so ago a video went viral of a man approaching a woman at a hitting range with unsolicited advice and was told multiple times by the woman that she was working on something from her coach but his tips kept coming. Turns out she was an LPGA professional actually working on her swing goals but the person wasn’t getting the hints to cease the advice-giving. So what can we do when so kindly offered extra help?
People love being helpful and many don’t realize that that are entering into your “lane.” They are just so keen to make things better with results…they may be more results-oriented than you if you’re working on the Process and not Results yet and not understand the process vs. results aspect.
· Technically when playing golf, a golfer must not give advice or ask anyone for advice (other than a caddie) and the general penalty is in effect (loss of hole in match play or two stroke penalty in stroke play). In order not to increase the score even more, politely decline with the reminder that you better not take advice as you
don’t want an even higher score! You can read more about it under Rule 10.2 with the USGA.
· At the range you can simply thank the advice-giver and with a smile, say you’ll run that by your coach, then get back to practicing.
· At the range you can thank the advice-giver and ask if you have more questions if you can approach him or her later (you may or may not but that ball in is your court).
· You can simply say thank you and that you are not accepting advice at this time.
· You can mention that research shows that coming across the ‘Ah Ha’ moment yourself will be more impactful than being told by an outside source. I brought Dr. Robert Bjork to a prior Club at which I worked to spend time with our members for a day and his research is fascinating. This resource may be helpful: https:// sanlab.psych. ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/ sites/13/2016/07/ RBjork_Dunlosky_ Kornell_2012.pdf
There’s a term called a Helicopter Parent that we’ve become familiar in the youth sports world. Parents who want to be helpful and very involved in their youngster’s
activity but sometimes to the detriment of the child with the persistent hovering that can create constant nervousness, fear of doing something wrong or failing, dependence instead of independence and an unhealthy fear of mistakes. Mistakes are actually how we learn and are a positive thing but often misconstrued as negative and therefore the advice is offered in an effort to avoid the embarrassment, frustration or lack of progress that is a normal part of the learning process. Parents and Advice-Givers mean well but the extra help can be stifling. Sometimes that can extend to a family member or golfers… being “Helicoptered” is challenging at the receiving end at times but hopefully some of the responses may be helpful and setting the stage at the beginning may help.
BY VICTOR FERNANDES
Victor Fernandes is owner of Fernandez Fit, helpjng clients achieve personal and professional success through health and fitness
Ihave a story to share with you. And although this story is geared toward people in their 50s and older (like me), the message within applies to everyone who has ever allowed self-limiting beliefs to hold them back in life.
Now, you’re likely saying to yourself, “What are self-limiting beliefs?” They are self-inflicted doubts – and more often than not, excuses we tell ourselves – that keep us from pursuing goals we believe we can’t accomplish. Or believe we are too old to accomplish.
It can be tied to health and fitness, or all aspects of our lives. But as we age, and we view ourselves on the back nine of life instead of embracing the possibilities that lie ahead, we limit the goals we set for ourselves – if we set any at all.
I did that for years. I talked a good game but rarely followed through on all that talk – until I finally began taking control of my health and well-being. Often, when I share that story, people become fixated on the number of pounds lost – 75.
But that was merely a footnote in the full story, compared to the mental and
emotional changes I experienced along the way – the changes that remain ingrained within me many years after all those extra pounds melted away.
Now I’m a firm believer in how we do one thing is how we do everything. If we do one thing the right way, we do everything in our life the right way. If we cut corners in one way, if you take stock of your life, you’ll likely find that you cut corners in all other areas of life.
I’ve seen that unfold, in both respects, over my adult life. When I struggled to take care of myself mentally, emotionally and physically, I struggled to take care of everyone and everything in my life that was important to me.
And when I gained control of my health and fitness, and in turn gained confidence in myself, I realized there was no limit to what I could accomplish.
Which is why, at age 47, I left the sports journalism industry after 26 years to make a complete 180-degree pivot into the health and fitness world, and into the world of entrepreneurship.
more is when my clients face that same life-changing moment in their life. One of my newest clients shared with me recently an intriguing approach to improving his health and well-being.
He’s actually making it his top priority. And by priority, I mean he has restructured his business to make more time for the work it takes to keep him healthy enough to run his business. He’s working to live in a way that will change his life.
I’m all for going above and beyond to achieve professional success. I can appreciate everyone who follows the “Rise and Grind” mentality, and who will sleep when they’re dead in pursuit of their personal and professional goals.
But if your health and well-being suffers to the point where you can’t enjoy the fruits of your labor, is it all truly worth it?
Now I’m 53 and excited about what lies ahead, because in my mind the best years are ahead of me.
The only thing that excites me
Think of Colonel Sanders, who reportedly founded the Kentucky Fried Chicken chain at 62. Morgan Freeman and Samuel L. Jackson, who didn’t make it big in the film industry until after turning 40. It’s never too late to pursue – and achieve – your goals, no matter how lofty they may seem. The best time to start was 20 years ago. I can attest to that. The next best time is right now, even with the unofficial start to summer already upon us.
Want to make the new year the best year ever? There’s no big secret. Set your goals. Believe you can achieve them. Make them happen. And if you need help laying out the best plan of action, 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.
My client and I are a few months into training together, and he’s doing great work — and with the attitude he’s taking into it he’s going to enjoy great success.
Once you make that choice to take care of yourself, and you begin sticking to it day after day, the rest is actually rather simple. You do the work.
Age, or the time of life that you’re in at the moment, have nothing to do with it.
As far as I’m concerned, I’m still on the proverbial front nine of life, even at 53, and taking control of my health and well-being set the wheels in motion.
But are you still not convinced?
shallottemag.com /July 2025/ Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine 22
notice that our Calendar is bigger and carries more information from all of Brunswick County. We publish three magazines — Leland Magazine, Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine, and Southport Magazine. We love collecting details about all the of the fun events from all across our county and thought that everyone in the county, no matter which magazine they read, should be able to see all of the opportunities our community offers. We hope you’ll find something unexpected in this month’s Calendar and we really encourage you to hop in the car and go to something you’ve never experienced before.
28
Friends of Leland Library Book Sale
Shop for new-to-you books at the Friends sale, 9:30 am to 3 pm at the Leland Library, 487 Village Road. Paperbacks are just 50 cents, hardbacks are $1, and children’s books are just 10 cents; specialty books will be priced individually. Visit friendsofthelelandlibrary.com to learn more about the group.
28-29
Sea Notes Choral Society Concert
The Sea Notes present “A Tribute to ALL Our Heroes,” at Odell Williamson Auditorium on the campus of Brunswick Community College, 150 College Road NW, Bolivia. Performances are free, and begin at 3 pm both days. For more information about the Sea Notes, visit sea-notes.com.
Beach Bash — Ocean Isle Beach
The Town’s Recreation Department and the Museum of Coastal Carolina host this annual beach party at Town Center Park (11 E. Second St.). The event is 10 am to noon, and features activities, crafts, music, photo ops and more.
JULY 4
4th of July at the Old Bridge
The Old Bridge Historical Society hosts patriotic events starting at 9 am. Decorate your bikes, strollers and wag-
ons and join in the parade. There will also be children’s games and activities, and refreshments. Find the festivities at 109 Shoreline Drive West, Sunset Beach.
6-11
Pirate Week at the Museum of Coastal Carolina
Pirates take over the Museum this week, with events planned daily. Museum staff and the Ocean Isle Beach Recreation Department have teamed up to provide pirate-themed activities (see schedule elsewhere in this issue or visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ for more details). The Museum is at 21 E. 2nd St.
JULY 11-12
“Christmas in July” Art, Craft, and Bake Sale.
The Oak Island Senior Center & Gift Shop hosts this mid-year holiday sale, featuring handmade crafts, paintings, Christmas ornaments, jewelry, and home decorations. There will also be a raffle, giveaways, music, and food available for purchase for breakfast or lunch. The event is 8:30 am to 4pm both days at the Center.
JULY 12
Swifties Night Out — Leland
Taylor Swift fans will love this chance to dress up and turn out for Swifties Night Out. The evening includes making friendship bracelets or a vision board, a photo booth, and, of course, dancing! Children younger than 13 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian
at this family-friendly event. Tickets are $5 per person, and the event is at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
JULY 13
Oak Island 3rd Annual Tide Sit-In
Head to the Middleton Park beach access at 46th St SE with your beach chair and a donation of any size to the Caswell and Oak Island Turtle programs, set up at the water’s edge, and wait for the incoming tide. The last person standing (sitting actually!) Wins bragging rights for the year.
17
Sip, Savor and Shop at Silver Coast Winery
Enjoy works of art from eight local artists and sample from among 11 wines, 5-7 pm at the Silver Coast Winery (6680 Barbeque Road, mainland of Ocean Isle Beach).
JULY 19
After Hours at the Splash Pad
Oak Island opens its popular splash pad for adults 18 and older, from 6:308 pm. There will be music, games, and food trucks. The cost is $5, and registration is required; visit www.OakIslandNC. gov/PROGRAMS. The Splash pad is on
SE 46th Street on Oak Island.
In The Glorious Cause of Liberty: The 250th Anniversary of the Burning of Fort Johnston
The NC Maritime Museum at Southport, in conjunction with the City of Southport, has planned a day-long symposium, with living history demonstrations and a nighttime commemoration.
The burning and destruction of Fort Johnston by more than 500 Whig militiamen during the summer of 1775 spurred the colony of North Carolina into a war after which it would never be the same. Events are planned in the Museum (204 E. Moore St.) and out on the lawn from 10 am to 5 pm, and the nighttime luminary commemoration planned for sunset to 10 pm. The day’s schedule includes half-hour musket/ artillery tandem demos on the lawn, at 10 am, 11:30 am, 1 pm, 2:30 pm and 4:15 pm. The Symposium, at the Southport Community Building (223 E. Bay St.) includes the following: Jim McKee, “The Construction of Fort Johnston” at 10:30 am; Stephen Atkinson, “HMS Cruizer and British Naval Activity in the Lower Cape Fear” at noon; Jack Fryar, “When the British Came: Revolution in the Cape Fear, 1765-1782” at 1:30 pm; and Chris Fonvielle, “With Such Great Alacrity: The Burning of Fort Johnston” at 3 pm.
JULY 19
Art Market — Leland Shop for works from local artists and enjoy interactive activities at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way. The Market is 10 am to 3 pm.
2
Instructor Showcase and Open House — LCAC
Learn more about the instructors who lead all sorts of arts programs at the Leland Cultural Arts Center at this showcase and open house. The pro-
gram is 10 am to 1 pm at the Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
Wednesdays through August 6
Story Time by the Sea - Oak Island Children ages 12 and younger can enjoy a coastal-themed story and make a craft project to take home; the weekly event (except for July 2) is at the cabana, at the corner of E. Beach Drive and SE 46th Street, from 10-11 am. The program is free, but registration is required.
Thursdays through June
Kids Events in Mulberry Park
123 Mulberry St., Shallotte Events start at 10 am.
Kids Activities in Ocean Isle Beach
Town Center Park
11 E. 2nd St.
Art in the Park — craft making is at 10 am, July 8-Aug 12. On Wednesdays, kids can go on a Scavenger Hunt from 10-10:30 am (registration is required; visit https://www.oibgov.com/)
Holden Beach Turtle Patrol
Turtle program volunteers will lead Turtle Talk on Wednesdays. The programs are at 7 pm at Holden Beach Chapel, 107 Rothchild Street. Children’s Turtle Time (for children ages 3 through 6, who are accompanied by an adult) is on Wednesdays at 4 pm.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Boiling Spring Lakes Concerts in the Park
Spring Lake Park, 210 Pine Road (6-8 pm)
June 27 — The Chance Union Band
July 11 — The Doorsmen
July 18 — Lunar Tide Band
Aug 1 — The Band Whiplash
Calabash Summer Concerts
Calabash Town Park, 868 Persimmon Road SW (6-8:30 pm)
July 1 — The Extraordinaires
July 15 — Thomas Road Band
July 22 — The Main Event Band
July 29 — J.B. and the Get Down Browns
Aug 5 — The Tonez
Oak Island Summer Concerts
Middleton Park Fields, Dolphin Drive and SE 46th Street (6:30-8:30 pm)
June 27 — Julio & The Saltines
July 1 (Beach Day, 6-9 pm) — Chairman of the Board featuring Ken Knox
July 11 — The Embers featuring Craig Woolard
July 18 — The British Invaders
July 25 — Rivermist
Aug 1 — The Sand Band
Aug 8 — The Extraordinaires
Aug 15 — The Salty Dawgs
Aug 22 — 52nd Street Band
Aug 30 (sat) — The Main Event Band
Moonlight Movies (7:30 pm)
Ocean Isle Beach, Town Center Park, 11 E. Second St.
June 25 — “Under the Boardwalk”
July 2 — “Playmobil: The Movie”
July 9 — “Th Pirates! Band of Misfits”
July 16 — “Surf’s Up”
July 23 — “The Tiger’s Apprentice”
July 30 — “Planet 51”
Aug 6 — “The Croods”
Aug 13 — “Sinbad: Legend”
Peggy Hughes Summer Concert Series
Town Center Park, 11 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach
June 30 (Monday) — The Extraordinaires
July 11 — The Catalinas
July 18 — Chocolate Chip & Company
July 25 — Too Much Sylvia
Aug 1 — Band of Oz
Aug 8 — Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot
Aug 15 — The Embers featuring Craig Woolard
Aug 22 — Special Occasion Band
Aug 31 (Sun) — Continental Divide)
Sound Waves Concerts at Sunset Beach Town Park
206 Sunset Blvd. North (6-8 pm)
July 2 — The Extraordinaires
July 9 — Band on Fire
July 16 — Devin Dove Band
July 23 — The Entertainers
July 30 — JB & The Get Down Browns
Aug 6 — Julio & The Saltines
Aug 13 — The Mac Daddys Band
Aug 20 — Too Much Sylvia
Aug 27 — 52nd Street Band
July 2 — The Extraordinaires
July 9 — Band on Fire
July 16 — Devin Dove Band
July 23 — The Entertainers
July 30 — JB & The Get Down Browns
Aug 6 — Julio & The Saltines
Aug 13 — The Mac Daddys Band
Aug 20 — Too Much Sylvia
Aug 27 — 52nd Street Band
Sunset Beach Pier
101 W. Main St. (6-8 pm)
July 4 — DJ Taco
July 10 — Sea & Sand Band
July 27 — Trublmkrz
July 24 — Salt Road
July 31 — John Toppings - Desperado
Aug 7 — The Mac Daddys Band
Southport Summer Concerts
Franklin Square Park
June 26 -- Sandy Branch Band
July 10 — River Sound
July 17 — Rock the Dock
July 24 — The Doorsmen
July 31 — Deep Creek Soul
Aug 7 — Almost Blue
Aug 14 — Jazz Adjacent
Aug 21 — Mike’s Garage Band
Aug 28 — Brunswick Big Band
Movies on the Lawn - Southport Garrison Lawn
203 E. Bay Street
July 11 — “Dog Man” — movie begins at dusk
Holden Beach Summer Concert Series
Bridgeview Park (6:30-8 pm)
June 29 —The Extraordinaires
July 6 — The Tams
July 13 — Jim Quick and Coastline
July 20 — The Sand Band
July 27 — Continental Divide
Shallotte Summer Concerts
Mulberry Park, 123 Mulberry St.
July 3 — The Catalinas
July 10 — Too Much Sylvia
July 17 — Chocolate Chip & Company
July 24 — The Tonez
July 31 — Thomas Road band
Aug 7 — Julio & The Saltines
Aug 14 — The Entertainers
Aug 21 — Chris Taylor & The Rumor
Aug 28 — Band of Oz
Sept 4 — The Extraordinaires
Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College
701 N. Third St., Wilmington
June 28 — Gladys Knight
July 2 — Stars and Stripes by the North Carolina Symphony
July 8 — Diana Krall
July 12 — “Jaws” the movie in concert with The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra
July 21 — Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
July 22 — Todd Rundgren
July 27 — Sal Vulcano
Aug 2 — Henry Cho
Aug 8 — Chris Isaak
Aug 14 — Three Dog Night
Visit https://wilsoncentertickets.com for more information.
Thalian Hall
310 Chestnut St., Wilmington
June 27-29 — The Performance Club Theatre Company performs “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”
July 10-20 — Big Dawg Productions presents “A Ride Through the Country”
July 17-27 — The Opera House Theatre Company presents “9 to 5”
Aug 14-24 — “Oklahoma” by the Opera House Theatre Company
Check https://www.thalianhall.org/ calendar for more information.
Greenfield lake Amphitheater
1941 Amphitheater Drive, Wilmington
June 28 — Big Something
July 6 — Steel Pulse
July 12 — Shakey Graves: And the War Came - 10th Anniversary Tour
July 19 — Flipturn - The Burnout Days Tour
July 27 — Wilderado
Aug 3 — Drive-By Truckers & Deer Tick
Visit greenfieldlakeamphitear.com for more information.
Live Oak Bank Pavilion
10 Cowan St., Wilmington
June 27 — Parker McCollum
July 6 — Gary Clark Jr.
July 17 — Kidz Bop Live
July 24 — Brad Paisley
July 25 — Weird All Yankovic
July 26 — Primus
OPEN AIR MARKETS
Sunset Beach Town Park
The Market is held from 9 am to 1 pm on Thursdays at the park (on the mainland by the bridge).
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.
Oak Island Farmers & Artisans Market
Shop for produce, baked goods and arts and crafts at this Monday market, 8 am to 1 pm at the Middleton Park Fields, at the intersection of E. Dolphin Drive and SE 46th Street.
Ocean Isle Beach Summer Market Series
5 West 3rd St.
This summer market is on Tuesdays, from 9 am to 1 pm. The market will run through August 26.
One Love Market
9887 Oak Street, Calabash
Markets are held on Wednesdays through August 6, 8:30 am to 12:30
pm, featuring music, crafts, artwork, jewelry, fruits, flowers, local flowers and photography. This market is a non-profit, benefitting local rescue and aid agencies for humans and all kinds of animals.
Southport Summer Market
Waterfront Park, E. Bay Street
The summer market runs Wednesdays through August (except the week of July 4). The market’s hours are 10 am to 4 pm, weather permitting.
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 11 am to 3 pm and Saturdays 10 am to 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. One-on-one tech support is offered on Thursdays, 1-3 pm.
NC Maritime Museums - Southport 204 E. Moore St.
Hours are 10 am to 5 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. Anchors Aweigh, a drop-in children’s program, is offered 11 am to 3 pm on Wednesdays, starting June 11. Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs.
Historic Bike Tours in Southport
Tour historic Southport on bike with the Adventure Kayak Company, Inc. Tours can be for parties of four or more. Call 910-454-0607 or visit www.theadventurecompany.net.
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.
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. The summer art show is on exhibit June 23-July 19. The summer lectures are 3-5 pm, with The Macchiaoli: Italian Impressionism on July 9 and Art in the Digital Age on July 23.
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.
Bridgeview Park, 125 Davis St.
Make your own personalized beach summer of 2025 memento with a tiedyed shirt. The program is 1-2:30 pm at the Park, and participants must be in line by 2 pm to do a shirt. The cost is $7$10, depending on shirt size needed.
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.
Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year, such as a Memorial Day observance at 10 am (weather permitting), Museum Ships Weekend with the Azalea Coast Radio Club (June 7-8), and more. Visit https://battleshipnc.com/. The battleship site is at 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington (west side of the Cape Fear River).
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. A new speakers series debuted this summer, and though times and specific details are forthcoming, the scheduled programs are: Bonnie Mitchell, NC Coastal Federation on July 10; Todd Rhoades with the Battery White Historical Association on July 12; Hunter Ingram with the Burgwin-Wright House & Gardens on July 26; and Paul Shivers Friends of Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson on Aug 2.
21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach
The Museum is open Mondays through Fridays, 10 am to 4 pm (Until 7
pm Tuesday and Thursday)and Sundays from noon until 4 pm. Sandbar lectures every Tuesday at 6 pm. Snakes Alive, Thursdays at 6 pm. The touch tank is open Mondays, Wednesday, and Fridays, 11 am to noon.
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. Laser shows are on Thursdays through 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 and older storytime is at 11 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
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.
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
All Games 7 pm at Mike Alderson Field, West Brusnwick High School
Mon June 30 vs Sandhills Bogeys
Wed July 2 vs Oak Island Loggerheads
Thur July 3 vs Jacksonville Ospreys
Tue July 8 vs Sandhills Bogeys
Wed July 9 vs Highland Hooligans
Fri July 11 vs Oak Island Loggerheads
Wed July 16 vs Jacksonville Ospreys
Fri July 18 vs Highland Hooligans
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.
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.
The Pelican Bookstore is hosting a series of book signings this spring, givings us plenty of time to line up our summer reading schedules. Book signings are held at the Silver Coast Winery, 6680 Barbeque Road, Ocean Isle Beach (mainland). The festivities start at 5:30 pm. Tickets are $45 and include a glass of wine, light hors d’oeuvres, a copy of the book, and a meet and greet with the author. For more details and a longer synopsis of the book selections, visit www.pelicanbookstore.com.
July 25 — Karen White
“That Last Carolina Summer” tells the story of Phoebe Manigault who, as a child, developed the gift of premonition after she was struck by lightning in the creeks near her Charleston home. Plagued throughout her life by mysterious dreams, and always living in the shadow of her beautiful sister, Addie, Phoebe eventually moves to the West Coast, as far from her family as possible. Now, years later, she is summoned back to South Carolina, to help Addie care for their ailing mother.
July 31 — Megan Miranda
Beckett Bowery never thought she’d return to Wyatt Valley, a picturesque college town in the Virginia mountains steeped in tradition. Her roots there were strong: Beckett’s parents taught at the college, and she never even imagined studying anywhere else—until a tragedy her senior year ended with two local men dead, and her roommate on the run, never to be seen again… and so begins the thriller “You Belong Here.”
Aug 16 — Lisa Gardner
Recent Afghan refugee Sabera Ahmadi was last seen exiting her place of work three weeks ago. The local police have yet to open a case, while her older, domineering husband seems unconcerned. Sabera’s closest friend, however, is convinced Sabera would never willingly leave her three-year old daughter. At her insistence, missing persons expert Frankie Elkin agrees to take up the search through the broiling streets of Tucson. Just in time for a video of the young mother to surface—showing her walking away from the scene of a brutal double murder. Find out “whodunnit” in “Kiss Her Goodbye.”
Looking for something to do besides going to the beach? Here you’ll find lots of fun for the entire family. Be sure to check before you go as hours may change and some attractions may be seasonal
7625 High Market Street
Sunset Beach (mainland)
https://museumplanetarium.org/ingram-planetarium/
Enjoy musical laser shows and learn more about the night sky; check website for schedule and tickets. Hands-on activities and interactive displays are available in the Paul Dennis Science Center, and admission to the Center is free.
21 E. 2nd St.
Ocean Isle Beach
https://museumplanetarium.org/
Learn more about our coastal environment, with a live touch tank, saltwater aquariums, interactive exhibits, lectures and family programs. The Mu-
seum is open 10 am to 4 pm Thursday through Saturday, and 5-7 pm on the second Tuesday for sandbar lectures.
5550 Watts Road SW Ocean Isle Beach (mainland)
https://www.shallotteriverswamppark. com/
This adventure park features zip line tours, an aerial park, guided ATV tours and eco-tours on a swamp boat.
349 Whiteville Road
Shallotte
https://planetfuncenter.com/
This family entertainment center offers arcade games, laser tag, and bowling (including cosmic bowling on weekends), many TVs for watching all the games, and a restaurant.
SHALLOTTE RIVERWALK
Gazebos at 159 Cheers St. and 146 Wall St.
The Riverwalk is open from dawn to dusk, and features a quarter mile boardwalk, gazebos at each end and beautiful views of the Shallotte River.
OLD BRIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
109 Shoreline Drive West Sunset Beach (mainland) http://www.theoldbridge.org/
The old swing bridge that used to connect Sunset Beach to the mainland has been preserved as a museum. The Museum is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 am to 2 pm, with stories about the Sunset Beach Swing Bridge tender house, local history, and more.
STUMP HILL FARMS
2030 Ash-Little River Road NW Ash
https://www.stumphillfarms.com/
The farm is open on Saturdays in April and October, and by appointment or for special events other times of year, with hay rides, games for children, and educational opportunities covering bee pollination and local crops.
GRAYCE WYNDS FARM AND THE WILD HORSE RESERVE AT GRAYCE WYNDS
2450 Grayce Wynds Drive Supply, NC 28462
Visit the farm, take a guided tour, or participate in special events. Check https://www.graycewyndsfarm.com/ for tours available and events.
SILVERY COAST WINERY
6680 Barbeque Road
Ocean Isle Beach https://silvercoastwinery.com/
Winery tours, tastings, and shop for wine accessories and gifts; event rental space also available.
OCEAN ISLE MINI GOLF
6391 Beach Drive SW
Ocean Isle Beach http://oceanisleminigolf.com
TREASURE ISLAND MINIATURE GOLF
3445 Holden Beach Rd.
Holden Beach (910) 842-4878
There are so many great spots to get out and enjoy this beautiful county. We’ve listed a few of the main parks here, but keep an eye out for smaller pocket parks and water access areas.
HOLDEN BEACH PAVILION AND BRIDGEVIEW PARK
The Pavilion is tucked in next to the west side of the bridge on the island, and Bridgeview Park is a couple blocks down the Intracoastal Waterway, at Davis Street.
TOWN CENTER PARK
11 E. Second St.
Ocean Isle Beach
This town park has an amphitheater, interactive fountain, bocce ball court, playground, and plenty of bike parking.
SHALLOTTE PARK
5550 Main St.
Ball fields, tennis courts, basketball court, a playground, picnic shelters and a dog park.
MULBERRY STREET PARK
123 Mulberry Street
Shallotte
Picnic shelters, an amphitheater, and home to Shallotte’s outdoor markets
SUNSET BEACH TOWN PARK
Sunset Boulevard North (mainland) Stroll through five acres of live oaks along the Intracoastal Waterway, sit a spell on a bench, do some fishing or visit the Veterans Memorial.
OCEAN ISLE BEACH PARK
6483 Old Georgetown Road
The Park features 2 playgrounds, eight tennis courts, four pickleball courts, baseball and softball fields, a dog park, basketball courts, an amphitheater, picnic shelter and a multipurpose field for soccer/football with walking trail and fitness stations.
WACCAMAW PARK
5855 Waccamaw School Road NW, Ash
This park features ball fields, basketball court, tennis courts, playground, bocce ball and a nine-hole disc golf course.
SUNSET BEACH FISHING PIER
101 W. Main St. Sunset Beach http://sunsetbeachpier.com/
OCEAN ISLE BEACH PIER
1 W. First St. Ocean Isle Beach https://oibpier.com/
CAROLINAS COASTAL ADVENTURE TOURS
2000 Sommerset Road SW
Ocean Isle Beach (mainland) https://www.ccattours.com/
SALT FEVER GUIDE SERVICE
21 Causeway Drive
Ocean Isle Beach
https://www.saltfeverguideservice. com/
HURRICANE FLEET - LEAVES FROM THE CALABASH WATERFRONT
https://hurricanefleet.com/
CALABASH FISHING FLEET
9945 Nance St.
Calabash https://calabashfishingfleet.com/
HOLDEN BEACH FISHING
https://www.holdenbeachfishing.com/
HOLDEN BEACH WATERSPORTS
3325 Old Ferry Road SW
Holden Beach
https://www.holdenbeachwatersports. com/index.html
Boat Tours
Boat Rentals
OCEAN ISLE FISHING CENTER
65 Causeway Drive
Ocean Isle Beach
https://www.oifc.com/
TOUR H2O
Locations in Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and Southport https://tourh2o.com/
BLUE PLANET WATERSPORTS
7156 Beach Drive
Ocean Isle Beach
https://blueplanetwatersports.com/
HOLDEN BEACH JET SKI RENTALS
1305 Cedar Landing Road SW Supply
https://www.holdenbeachjetski.com
SORTA SALTY FISHING CHARTERS
Holden Beach
https://sortasalty.com
OLLIE RAJA CHARTERS
3238 Pompano St. SW
Holden Beach/Oak Island
https://holdenbeachfishingcharters. com/
MONDAY–FRIDAY: 9am - 8pm
SATURDAY: 10am - 6pm SUNDAY: 12pm - 5pm
