Looking through our collection of photos from last year’s 4th of July Festival for images to use in this issue, I was reminded how much I really love the entire event. People think it’s odd that I look forward to it. Many people, especially advertisers from out of town, will assume I hunker down and hide during the festival because it’s so busy. But while I was in the beer wholesaler industry, I got to see very little of the festival. I only saw the parade on TV reruns aside from the rare occasion the 4th fell on a Saturday and I had things well enough in hand I didn’t have to work. So now I revel in it all --- the crowds, the heat, the traffic, the challenge of finding a parking spot. I truly do love it all. I look forward to the classic things, like the parade and firefighter competition and the flotilla, and this year I’m super excited for the new additions, like the fantasy petting zoo and the World’s Largest Ice Cream Sundae. I hope to see you there, and if you see me, the guy in the straw hat with the camera around his neck, be sure to say hello!
----Jeffrey
STAFF
EDITOR
Jeffrey Stites
editor@southportmag.com
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Lisa P. Stites
lisa@southportmag.com
LEAD DESIGNER
Liz Brinker
lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS
Chuck and Sue Cothran
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Carla Edstrom
Patty Langer
Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny
Janet Fortney
Lisa P. Stites
Jeffrey Stites
PHOTOGRAPHER
Jeffrey Stites
PUBLISHER & SALES
Jeffrey Stites
jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741
CONSULTANT
Kris Beasley PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461
Southport Magazine is published once a month by
Live Oak Media with an extra publication in July for the Southport Fourth of July Festival. The opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of the staff.
The North Carolina 4th of July Festival has so many fun activities and programs, so use this schedule throughout the week so you don’t miss any of your favorites! This year brings some new events, like the Brunswick Arts Council’s “AARGH! A Pirate’s Life For Me!” melodrama and vaudeville show, and of course, long-time favorites like the Fire Fighters Freedom Competition, the parade, and fireworks will return. Take a look at the schedule and begin planning your festival fun!
AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL (EXCEPT SUNDAY)
10 am - 4 pm: Fort Johnston-Southport Visitors Center and Museum open
10 am - 5 pm: NC Maritime Museum at Southport open
12:30 pm - 3:30 pm: Old Brunswick Jail open, at the corner of N. Rhett Street/E. Nash Street. Hosted by the Southport Historical Society.
FRIDAY, JUNE 27
3 pm: The Tunnel to Towers 9/11 NEVER FORGET Mobile Exhibit enters Southport at the intersection of 87 and 211. Hosted by the City of Southport Fire Department. Visit daily 10 am - 6 pm throughout the festival
6 pm: Welcoming Ceremony on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn
6:15 pm: Reading of the Declaration of Independence on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn
6:30 pm: Brunswick Big Band on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn
SATURDAY, JUNE 28
7:30 - 10 am: Freedom Run 5K-1 Mile. Southport Waterfront.
10 am - 5 pm: Summer Regional Art Show at Franklin Square Gallery. Hosted by The Associated Artists of Southport. Also enjoy daily July 1-4
1-2:30 pm: Brunswick Arts Council presents “AARGH! A Pirate’s Life For Me!” Melodrama & Vaudeville Fun at the Southport Community Building
3 pm: 40th Annual Fire Fighters Freedom Competition & Apparatus Expo on Nash Street. Hosted by the Southport Fire Department.
3 pm: Patriotic Concert - “A Tribute to ALL Our Heroes.” Sea Notes Choral Society at Brunswick Community College, Odell Williamson Auditorium.
SUNDAY, JUNE 29
3 pm: Patriotic Concert - “A Tribute to ALL Our Heroes.” Sea Notes Choral Society at Brunswick Community College, Odell Williamson Auditorium.
5 pm: Gospel Fest on the Franklin Square Park Stage.
6 pm: World’s Largest Ice Cream Sundae at Franklin Square Park. Hosted by the Southport Fire Department.
MONDAY, JUNE 30
10 am - 5 pm: Celebrating Art in Southport – Patriotic Art Contest & Porch Activity at Artisans Gallery on Howe, 114 S. Howe St. Presented by Southport Art Gallery Guild.
10 am - 5 pm: Celebrating Art in Southport – Open House & Art Activity at Franklin Square Gallery, 130 E. West St. Presented by Southport Art Gallery Guild.
10 am - 5 pm: Celebrating Art in Southport – Refreshments & Kids’ Craft-Making Activity at Studio Artists of Southport, 715 N. Howe St. Presented by Southport Art Gallery Guild.
10 am - 5 pm: Celebrating Art in Southport – Patriotic Sidewalk Chalk Activity at Lantana’s Gallery, 113 S Howe St. Presented by Southport Art Gallery Guild.
10 am - 5 pm: Celebrating Art in Southport – Open House & Refreshments at Ricky Evans Art Gallery, 211 N. Howe St. Presented by Southport Art Gallery Guild.
TUESDAY, JULY 1
7 am: Beach Day - Contest Registration at the Middleton Park Recreation tent.
8 am: Beach Day - Beach Volleyball
8:30 am: Beach Day - Sandcastle Contest, 46th Street SE & Beach Drive Access
9 am: Beach Day - Horseshoes at Middleton Park (Register at field by Softball Field)
9 am: Beach Day - Beached Out Dog Costume Contest at Middleton Park amphitheater.
10 am: Beach Day - Cornhole at Middleton Park Complex.
10 am: Beach Day - Baby Crawling Race at Middleton Park fields Stage
11 am: Beach Day - Pre-K School Age Water Balloon Toss at Middleton Park amphitheater
11 am - 2 pm: Beach Day - Inflatables at Middleton Park
5:30 pm: Welcoming Ceremony at the Middleton Park fields on Oak Island
6 pm: Beach Day Concert - Chairmen of the Board featuring Ken Knox at Middleton Park fields Stage
9 pm: Beach Day - Town of Oak Island Anniversary Fireworks at the Oak Island Pier.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
10 am - 11 pm: Trolley available from Southport Elementary, 701 W. 9th St. Sponsored by Bald Head Island Limited, LLC and Intracoastal Realty Corporation. Trolley runs daily through July 4
10 am - 7 pm: Arts & Crafts on the Southport Waterfront. Runs through July 4
10 am - 7 pm: Merchandise Tent open on the Southport Waterfront, with Arts & Craft Booths through July 4
11 am - 10 pm: Food Concessions on South Howe Street through July 4
12-2 pm: Children’s Entertainment. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn. Organized by Brunswick Arts Council & Southport Rotary Club
12-3 pm Waterfront Stage Entertainment - The Brown Dirt Cowboys. Southport Waterfront Park. 1-5 pm: Military Exhibits at Southport Waterfront Park through July 4
3-4 pm: Brunswick Summer Wind Ensemble. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
4 pm: Red, White & Blue Freedom Flotilla at Southport Waterfront Park. Organized by Cape Fear Yacht Club.
4:05 pm Meet Mrs. North Carolina on the Fort Johnston lawn
4:30-5:30 pm: 440th Army Band on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
5:30 pm: Reading of the Declaration on the Southport Waterfront Stage.
5:30-7 pm: Cape Fear Radio. Southport Waterfront Park.
6 pm: A Salute to Veterans - Keynote Dr. James ‘Jim’ Czarnik, Southport Community Building. Organized by River Road Animal Hospital.
3-6 pm: Waterfront Stage Entertainment - The Brown Dirt Cowboys. Southport Waterfront Park. Sponsored by State Port Pilot.
7-10 pm: Waterfront Stage entertainment by The Embers at Southport Waterfront Park. Sponsored by the State Port Pilot.
4th of July
THURSDAY, JULY 3
9-11 am Children’s Games at Southport’s Waterfront Park. Registration opens at 8 am. Hosted by the City of Southport Parks & Recreation.
9-10 am: Children’s Games on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn. Registration opens at 8 am. Hosted by the City of Southport Parks & Recreation.
10 am Meet Mrs. North Carolina on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
11 am - 4 pm: Kid Zone. Taylor Field. Inflatables and kid centric vendors.
11 am - 4 pm: Humphrey Honey Bunny Farm Traveling Petting Zoo at Taylor Field.
11 am - noon: 440th Army Band on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
12-1:45 pm: Naturalization Ceremony organized by Downtown Southport, Inc. Fort
Johnston Garrison Lawn. Sponsored by Downtown Southport, Inc.
1-3 pm: Clicks of Confidence and Trick Horses in Southport’s Taylor Field Park
2 pm - Meet Mrs. North Carolina on the Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
2 pm: Flag Retirement Ceremony. Southport Waterfront Stage. Organized by Richard H. Stewart Jr. American Legion Post 543 and Cape Fear Council of Boy Scouts.
3-6 pm: Waterfront Stage Entertainment - The Rick Cannon Band. Southport Waterfront Park. Sponsored by State Port Pilot.
7-10 pm: Waterfront Stage Entertainment & Street Dance - Sleeping Booty Sponsored by the State Port Pilot.
FRIDAY, JULY 4
7-10:30 am: Pancake Breakfast. Trinity Methodist Church, 209 E Nash St. Hosted by Trinity United Methodist Church.
9-11 am: Historic Chapel of the Cross Self-Guided Tours. St. Phillips Church, Southport.
10:15 am: Reading of the Declaration at the intersection of Moore and Howe Streets.
10:30 am: Flag Raising Ceremony. Intersection of Moore and Howe Streets. Organized by Brunswick Town Fort Anderson.
11 am: Festival Parade. Moore and Howe Streets. Sponsored by WECT TV6 and Dosher Memorial Hospital.
12-3 pm: Cape Fear Radio at Southport’s Waterfront Park.
1-3 pm: First Responders Vehicle/Helicopter Display at Southport’s Waterfront Park. Organized by the City of Southport Fire and Police Departments.
3-5 pm: UPWA Live Pro Wrestling on Nash Street.
3-6 pm: Waterfront Stage Entertainment - Back Porch Rockers at Southport’s Waterfront Park. Sponsored by State Port Pilot.
7-9 pm: Waterfront Stage Entertainment - Bounce! Southport Waterfront Park. Sponsored by State Port Pilot.
9 pm: 4th of July Fireworks at Southport Waterfront Park. Sponsored by American Fish & Frying Pan. **New this year: if you would like noise cancelling headphones to reduce firework noise, please stop by the hospitality house prior to the show to check them out.
9:30 - 10 pm: Music returns to Waterfront Stage at Southport’s Waterfront Park. Sponsored by State Port Pilot.
4th of July
Fun For Children
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES
The NC 4th of July Festival is fun for all ages. While enjoying the parade and fireworks and the firefighter competition, we’ve seen the same smiles on the faces of toddlers and seniors alike, but here are are some special programs designed just for the youngest patriots.
Children’s Entertainment Day takes over the Fort Johnston lawn at 203 E. Bay Street from noon to 2 pm on Wednesday, July 2. This free event features arts and crafts, games, and entertainment brought to you by the Brunswick Arts Council, Southport Rotary and Southport Evening Rotary Club with help from the NC Maritime Museum at Southport.
Whether it’s music or storytelling under the giant live oak tree, histor ical games or just blowing huge bub bles with their friends, there’s some thing for all the kids at this event.
A brand-new addition to the North Carolina Fourth of July Festival lineup, the Kid Zone at Taylor Field, at the end of East Nash Street, will offer a day of inflatable fun and family-friendly activities on Thursday, July 3 from 11 am to 4 pm.
The Kid Zone is designed to be an interactive space for children of all ages. The area will feature a range of inflatable attractions including bounce houses and a water slide provided by Space Walk.
In addition to inflatable entertainment, the Kid Zone will host kid-centric vendors and a special appearance by the Kona Ice truck, offering cool and colorful shaved ice treats throughout the day.
Thursday, July 3, also brings the annual Children’s Games split between younger children on the Fort Johnston lawn and older children in Waterfront Park. Featuring events like sack races and watermelon rolling, both age groups begin at 9 am with registration opening at 8 am.
Swing by
Southern Coast in Southport during the 4th of July parade and cool off with a glass of ice-cold lemonade! Every sip supports a
4th of July
Clicks Of Confidence
Freedom Flotilla
Trained Horses On Display At Taylor Field
CONTRIBUTED BY NC 4TH OF JULY FESTIVAL COMMITTEE
Clicks of Confidence and their extraordinary trick horses return to Taylor Field Park on July 3 from 1–3 pm. Founded and developed by Lauryn Zepeda, Clicks of Confidence is a Brunswick County-based program that showcases the possibilities of positive reinforcement and clicker training in equine performance. A seasoned trick horse performer, Lauryn exhibits feats of horsemanship many have only seen in the movies — demonstrating how patience, trust, and a few well-timed clicks can lead to astonishing results.
Audiences will be amazed as Lauryn and her horses perform a captivating blend of games, tricks, and awe-inspiring maneuvers, all while highlighting the strength of the human–horse connection. The show is equal parts skill and spectacle, offering an unforgettable look into the world of compassionate, confidence-building horse training.
Lauryn began her journey more than a decade ago while training and showing mustangs. The name “Clicks of Confidence” was born when an announcer described her method after watching her overcome an obstacle using her signature verbal cues. Since then, she’s gone on to work with a prestigious Friesian breeder, training their horses in advanced movements such as the Spanish walk, bowing, and dancing. Today, Lauryn exclusively breeds, trains, and per-
forms with her own Friesians, sharing her unique training philosophy with audiences across the region.
Clicks of Confidence has been featured in Horse & Rider, Horse Got Talent Champions, Holistic Horse, Southport Magazine, WECT News, and EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE. Lauryn herself has been recognized as a Women to Watch finalist and a Rising Star.
Don’t miss this inspiring performance that celebrates the beauty, intelligence, and power of horses. As Lauryn puts it: “Come experience firsthand the beauty and intelligence horses hold!”
For more information or to inquire about booking Clicks of Confidence for your own event, visit www. ClicksofConfidence.com.
Enter Your Boat Or Watch From The Shore
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES
TheNC 4th of July Festival takes to the waters with the Red, White and Blue Freedom Flotilla. Enjoy patriotically bedazzled vessels of all shapes and sizes along the waterfront, up and down the Intracoastal Waterway and river. This year’s Red, White, and Blue Freedom Flotilla is scheduled to begin at 4 pm on Wednesday, July 2.
The parade route will begin from the Old Yacht Basin, pass along the Southport Waterfront, past Kingsley Park to Deep Point Marina. A tetrahedron (inflated marker) will be in the general vicinity of the entrance to Deep Point Marina to help define the turning point; return past the Old Yacht Basin, and continue to the Safe Harbor Marina.
You don’t have to stand on the sidelines for this epic event, organized by the Cape Fear Yacht Club. Boats of all sizes and types are invited to join the flotilla. Participants are encouraged to decorate their boats in red, white, and blue to reflect their patriotic spirit. There is no fee to enter. All registrations are due by June 28 at 6 pm and there is a mandatory captain’s meeting at 10 am on Wednesday, July 2, at Morning Star/Southport Marina, 606 West St.
Boat registration form and procedural instruction information can be found at www. nc4thofjuly.com/registrations.
The Cape Fear Yacht Club’s mission is to foster educational programs in seamanship, encourage and promote safe boating, and promote the public’s interest in yachting and sailing has guided the club’s activities for over 35 years. A summer youth sailing program is held for six weeks each summer for ages 9-17, and incorporates STEM components along with hands-on instruction to sail Optis and Collegiate 420 sailboats. CFYC Members enjoy social opportunities and contribute to the local communities.
The Cape Fear Yacht Club is currently accepting new members. To learn more, visit their website at https://capefearyachtclub.com/.
Planning is key to enjoying the NC 4th of July Festival. Take your time getting in and out of Southport and plan ahead to get a good spot to watch the parade!
4th of July
More Than A Zoo
Humphrey’s Enchanted Emporium
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
One of this year’s new attractions coming to the NC 4th of July Festival is a petting zoo. We checked out the business’ website and found that this is not at all your everyday, run-of-the-mill petting zoo. Intrigued, we contacted Brittany Humphrey, the co-owner of the Humphrey Honey Bunny Farm Traveling Petting Zoo to get the story behind what looks to be a truly magical experience. Can you introduce yourself and your crew?
I’m Brittney Humphrey, co-owner of Humphreys Enchanted Emporium, LLP, home of the Humphrey Honey Bunny Farm Traveling Petting Zoo. I’m also known as Brittle the Mushroom Lady, the one who spins whimsical, mushroom-shaped cotton candy and serves as The Keeper of the Spin Wheel, where magic meets mischief and anyone can earn a chance to spin for a prize.
My husband and co-owner, Steven Humphrey, is The Animal Whisperer. He has a gift for understanding our animals, knowing their moods, routines, and how to keep them safe and comfortable wherever we are.
And then there’s Michael Humphrey (Mike), The Gatekeeper. He’s the one who holds the stories, the pig tokens, and the enchanted boundary between the outside world and the magic within. When you pass through his gate, you’re not just visiting and interacting with animals, you’re stepping into a world we’ve built together.
What sets your traveling petting zoo apart from others people may have seen?
We don’t follow a traditional path; we’ve created something that’s uniquely ours. For us, that means creating a space where imagination and animal care go hand in hand. At every event, we lay down fresh hay over a protective mesh mat, creating a clean, cool, and soft space for the animals to stand and relax. We bring multiple shade canopies, clean water, hand sanitizer, and always give the animals the choice to step away and rest.
We like to say we’re not a petting zoo you see, we’re a petting zoo you experience.
And more than anything, we are an all-inclusive, interactive petting zoo, where everyone is welcome. We want the whole family to enter together, not just the kids. We welcome guests of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Our set-
up is fully wheelchair accessible, and we take great care to make sure everyone feels comfortable and safe as they explore. We truly believe that this is how memories are created. So, leave your worries outside the gate. Be stress-free. Let your imagination run wild. Because in the end, it’s not just a setup. It’s something we built together, as a family, with care, intention, and just a little bit of magic.
Do you bring all the critters to all your events, and if not, do you know who is joining you in Southport?
For Southport, we’re bringing everyone! This is one of those special events where the entire enchanted crew is coming along, and we couldn’t be more excited!
Our rabbit lineup includes: Sage, Binx, Amethyst, Oddity, and Bunz.
Our goat crew: Mika, Celestia, Honeydew, Bambina, and Fiorella.
Meadow, our gentle and wise sheep, will also be there, often soaking in the energy of the crowd with a calm presence.
And of course, our two magical pigs: Snape the Psychic Pig, who answers yes-or-no questions in his own mysterious way and Dumbledore the Vanishing Wiz-
ard, known for clever escapes and unforgettable personality (Want to know more? Ask the Gatekeeper!)
And yes, Angel the Invisible Chicken will be making her usual appearance, or at least, you might feel her presence.
How do you keep the animals comfortable when you’re set up in an open area like Taylor Field?
We’ll be fully covered and prepared!
For Southport, we’re setting up four 10x10 canopies, creating a 20x20 shaded space that covers the entire petting zoo. This isn’t just for guest comfort, it’s a key part of how we keep our animals safe and calm.
Rabbits are prey animals. Being fully exposed to the open sky can make them feel uneasy. Our canopies create a secure environment, not just for them but also for our goats, pigs, and sheep. The shade keeps the ground cooler, protects hooves and paws, and offers a gentler atmosphere for animals and guests. Every piece of our setup is intentionally designed, for safety, comfort, and care.
What inspired your theme?
The theme of our petting zoo comes straight from my imagination and a lifelong love for the Renaissance era and the world of make believe, blended with the soft, earthy magic of mushrooms. It’s whimsical, a little wild, and rooted in the belief that imagination is for everyone.
We built this world to reawaken that spark in both kids and adults, the idea that you can step into a space where animals have stories, the wind carries whispers, and maybe…just maybe…every goat or bunny is part of an ancient guild.
Our concession canopy even looks like a giant mushroom. We have a Gatekeeper, an Animal Whisperer, and a Spin Wheel Keeper (that’s me Brittle the Mushroom Lady). This isn’t about pretending, it’s about be-
4th of July
lieving, even for just a little while, that the world still holds a little magic.
In your experience, is there a crowd favorite critter? Do you have a
favorite?
Every animal seems to have their own little fan club, but if we’re going by pure crowd reactions, Binx the rabbit often gets the most attention. He’s calm, curious, and has a way of hopping right into people’s hearts. Just stay away from any potions he makes.
As for me? I truly don’t have a single favorite. Each animal brings something different to our experience. But I do have a soft spot for Meadow the sheep. She’s wise, gentle, and brings a quiet peace that grounds every event and my own day-to-day life too.
guest finds one and brings it to the Gatekeeper, they will earn an invisible chicken token which they then take to Brittle the Mushroom Lady in exchange for a treat. Some guests say they’ve heard her cluck. Others claim they’ve seen a feather drift by when no one was near, and others say, when Angel is close, you just might feel a sudden breeze.
How long have you been doing this? Do you have a background in farming or animal care?
Humphrey Honey Bunny Farm, LLC started out eight years ago as a simple, working farm. Over the years, it became something more. Some of our rabbits and pigs came to us needing safe homes and soon the connection between us and the animals began to shape everything.
three years ago. It didn’t happen overnight. It took years to build, and every part of it was brought to life by us, as a family.
Is there anything else you’d like to share or let people know before they visit you and your friends?
Just come ready to smile, explore, and let your imagination run wild.
This isn’t just a petting zoo, it’s a story you walk into. Every animal has a name, a role, and a little mystery to uncover. You might meet a psychic pig, discover a feather from an invisible chicken, learn one of Binx’s potion, but be very careful if you do, or spin a prize wheel.
And if you’re lucky, you may be handed something special: Humphrey Honey Bunny Money.
Tell me about the Invisible Chicken, if it will be, I guess, making an appearance in Southport… Ah yes, Angel the Invisible Chicken. She’ll absolutely be in Southport, though spotting her is rare (We have been looking for her for three years). Angel is a magical chicken by a mysterious mishap (actually, it’s not so mysterious — we know exactly how it happened, as we all look at Binx the rabbit knowing he was making a potion he shouldn’t have been making). Angel is known for being mischievous and completely unseen except for the occasional white feather she leaves behind. Here’s the important part: when one of her feathers falls to the ground, it loses its magic, and you can see it. If a kind-hearted
We didn’t decide to “start a petting zoo.” What we created came from lived experience, years of caring for animals, learning how they think, and understanding how much joy they bring to people when treated kindly.
Steven, my husband, has hands-on experience from years of working with animals, including time spent on a working farm caring for pigs and livestock. He’s the strong, steady one at events, the one who notices what others miss and steps in without hesitation if anything feels off.
Mike brings the spark, the stories, and the interactive magic that ties it all together.
And as for me, my experience didn’t come from textbooks. It started with small animals, grew through farm life, and became something deeper over time. I’ve spent years learning how animals feel, what they need, and how to create a space where they’re respected and adored.
Humphrey Enchanted Emporium, LLP was created because of Humphrey Honey Bunny Farm, LLC
This enchanted currency is given freely to anyone and everyone. Each animal has their own bill, and some come with surprises, like free cotton candy, popcorn, or a free spin on the wheel.
But every single one carries a quest: Find the Gatekeeper. Ask him about the story printed on your money. Do that, and you’ll unlock a tale, a special story about the animal featured on your bill, that only The Gatekeeper knows.
No pressure, just a little adventure between you and the animals.
The Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce members gathered to celebrate 50 years of supporting our community’s business community. Outgoing President Brook Rudd passed the gavel to incoming President Felicia Sexton, outgoing board members were recognized and incoming board members introduced, several awards were presented, and North Carolina Secretary of State Eleaine Marshall spoke about the Rural RISE Program in her keynote address.
The Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce 2025-26 Board of Directors; photo by Morgan Harper, The State Port Pilot
Above: Outgoing Board Members (l-r) Hugh Fosbury, Bradley Narron, Jackie Del Prete, Felicia Sexton and Brook Rudd
Below: NC Secretary of State Elaine Marshall
Community Summer Art Events
Southport’s Franklin Square Gallery
CONTRIBUTED
This summer, the Associated Artists of Southport (AAS) are offering a host of fun events at Franklin Square Gallery for art lovers to enjoy.
The Summer Regional Show runs through July 19 and features original paintings, pottery and sculpture by artists from all over the Lower Cape Fear region. The public is invited to attend the artists’ reception and awards ceremony on July 11 from 5-7 pm, to meet the artists and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine.
Next, to kick off Southport’s famous 4th of July festivities, AAS members will participate in the first-ever, city-wide “Celebrating Art in Southport Day” on June 30. Painters and potters alike will be on hand, in and outside the Gallery, to present live demonstrations of their work. The Gallery will also conduct its annual 4th of July raffle
at 5 pm on July 4. Raffle tickets are on sale now at the Gallery ($1 each or $5 for six). Prizes include original artwork and pottery donated by AAS members, and proceeds will benefit the Gallery’s capital fund.
On July 9, artist and educator Kirah Van Sickle will be at the Gallery from 3-5 pm to present an informative lecture entitled “The Macchiaioli: Italian Impressionism Makes its Mark.” Additional lectures are scheduled for July 23 (“Art in the Digital Age”) and August 6 (“Art as a Mirror: Manet’s Bar at the Folies Bergere”). For more information, please visit the Gallery’s website at https:// www.franklinsquaregallery.com/.
Finally, from July 21 to August 16, the
Gallery will host exhibits by featured artists Marian MacKerer and Bev Haley. Ms. MacKerer is an award-winning contemporary still life painter working in oil. Inspired by the 17th century Dutch masters, her paintings feature delicately arranged fruits, vegetables, fabrics, shells and flowers, capturing form, color, light and texture with extraordinary technical skill. Ms. Haley, an accomplished artist and ceramicist, creates wheel thrown, altered and traditional pottery as well as hand built ceramic sculptures. Her
style reflects the natural world, from the forest to the sea.
Franklin Square Gallery, the home of AAS, is a cooperative of more than 120 artists and is seeking new members. It is located at 130 E. West St. in the heart of historic downtown Southport, and offers original art and pottery for sale. The Gallery is open to the public, free of charge, from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.
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AirDNA Website
Sherol Lappala
Brian Deutsch
Verilyn McKee
Sarah Smith
Brian Quinn Katherine Hufham
Kim Anne Russ Pamela Frandano
Fred Fiss
David Thorp Myles Williams
Lee Ann Walker Sally Stidham
Valerie Earman Karen Saunders Katherine Wooten
Tanya Broussard
Kim Moss Annabelle Pivarnik Shea Williams
Andrea Milligan
Community Arts Scholarship
Barn & Beach Designs Supports Student
Noone appreciates the needs of young artists like other artists. Seeing a need to support art education, Francesca Talbot, local artist and owner of Barn & Beach Designs, recently created an art scholarship funded by the sale of donated art supplies.
“Coming from a background in art and having taught art for 17 years, I have seen a need for the support of young, budding artists,” Talbot said. “Currently representing some 200 local artists, I understand how much the arts reach and impact the community, a community that has enabled me to create a livelihood. So why not help give back to the community and those looking to do just that, make a living in the arts? Thus the Barn & Beach Art Scholarship was created.”
The first ever Barn & Beach Art Scholarship scholarship was awarded to South Brunswick High School senior Hannah Brake.
Talbot sat down with Hannah after presenting her a check for $800.
Hannah said that she enjoyed creating what she couldn’t find. “So what do you do when you can’t find what you’re looking for? You make it!”
Talbot said she couldn’t agree more.
Brake got her start in her grandmother‘s bead shop as a small child. Now a graduating senior with plans on attending Appalachian State this fall, her major will be in 3-D Fine Art.
Hannah has received many awards in her medium for 3-D art, jewelry & sculpture.
Three of her works were displayed at the Franklin Square Art Gallery High School Art Show, when she won second
In a matter of three months, March through May 2025, Barn & Beach Designs was able to raise $800 for the first art scholarship. With plans to continue for the 2026 school year, the scholarship was created to help much deserving art students continue their path in the arts.
If you’d like to contribute to this art scholarship, arts and craft donations are accepted year round at Barn & Beach Designs, 4874 Old Long Beach Rd. Donations can be new or used arts and crafts supplies and are greatly appreciated. The supplies are then sold at very reasonable prices to the community.
Talbot is excited to see this new scholarship grow and hopes that it can eventually help more High School students for years to come.
Hannah was chosen to receive the scholarship by SBHS art teacher Stacey Belter for her outstanding talent, dedication and passion for the arts.
place overall in 3D Art. Another piece won first in the GFWC art competition at the local level, first at the district level and first in metal craft at the state level.
Community Dosher Food Drive
Drive-Thru Event Supports Local Food Banks
STORY CONTRIBUTED
Dosher
Memorial Hospital will host a drive through food donation event to benefit identified high need areas within Brunswick County. Donors may drive up to the hospital front entrance on Wednesday, July 9 between the hours of 9 am and 1 pm to drop off healthy, non-perishable food items to members of hospital staff, who will coordinate distribution. Food pantries often experience low inventories in the summer, therefore, our July food drive aims to help compensate for these shortages. Donors can help to promote healthy nutrition by including whole grains and items low in sugar and sodium. The hospital requests non-perishable items only, and no glass packaging. For questions about the Dosher food drive, call the office of Commu-
nity Relations at 910-457-3900. More than 500 pounds of food were collected at last year’s event. Dosher staff looks forward to making the same impact in 2025.
Golf Tips
Nicole’s Golf Notes
Unwanted Advice and Staying In Your Lane
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.
May 26 - September 1, Nightly @ 7:30 pm
Southport Flag Ceremony at the Waterfront
June 27 @ 6:00 pm
Welcoming Ceremony
Fort Johnston Lawn
June 28 @ 3:00 pm
40th Annual Fire Fighters
Freedom Competition & Apparatus Expo Nash St
June 29 @ 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
The Tunnel to Towers 9/11
NEVER FORGET
Mobile Exhibit
Nash Street
July 1 @ 7:00 am
Beach Day Begins
Middleton Park Oak Island
July 1 @ 5:30 pm
Welcoming Ceremony
Middleton Park Complex, Oak Island
July 1 @ 9:00 pm
Town of Oak Island
Anniversary Fireworks
Oak Island Pier, Oak Island
July 2 @ 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Arts & Crafts Market
Southport Waterfront
July 2 @ 4:00 pm
Red, White & Blue
Freedom Flotilla
Southport Waterfront Park
July 2 @ 4:05 pm
Meet Mrs. NC Fort Johnston Lawn
July 3 @ 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Arts & Crafts Market
Southport Waterfront
www.nc4thofjuly.com
July 3 @ 12:00pm -1:45 pm
Naturalization Ceremony
Fort Johnston Lawn
July 3 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Waterfront Stage
Entertainment & Street Dance
Southport Waterfront Park
July 4 @ 11:00 am 4th of July
Festival Parade
Moore and Howe St Southport
July 4 @ 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
Arts & Crafts Market
Southport Waterfront
July 4 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Live Pro Wrestling
Nash St
July 4 @ 9:00 pm
4th of July Fireworks
Southport Waterfront Park
Keeping Fit
It’s Never Too Late
Better Late Than Never Applies To Fitness Too
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?
SICK?
RECEIVE AWARD-WINNING WALK-IN CARE
When you’re sick with a minor illness, and need to see a medical provider right away, Dosher’s Walk-In Care team is golden!
Wanda Oxendine, FNP, and Cassaundra Hefner, DNP, FNP – nominated by a grateful patient – earned a Golden Pineapple Award for outstanding service from the Southport Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce.
Dosher Wellness Center is located at 3009 Medical Plaza Lane, adjacent to the St. James SeaSide Gate.
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.
Backwater
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.
Nearshore
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.
Offshore
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.
Gulf Stream
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!
Art Beat
The Bryand Gallery
Art Worth Crossing The Bridge To See
STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM
Setinto the eclectic vibe of Historic Downtown Wilmington is an art gallery showcasing the work of many local artists and craftspeople in North Carolina. They have a wide variety of art and gifts, from pottery and metal art to jewelry and woodwork. The Bryand Gallery has something for everyone. Initially serving as a venue to showcase and sell the owner’s original and giclée art photography prints, the gallery now features more than 90 artists.
Owned by Mike and Allie Bryand and located at 20 S. Front Street, the gallery is a must-visit stop while visiting downtown Wilmington. “We are an NC arts and crafts gallery,” said Allie. “We originally decided to open a gallery primarily as a venue to sell Mike’s photo artwork,” Allie explained. “We knew a lot of different local artists and invited them to sell their artwork with us. We have owned the gallery for nearly 10 years now and have been at 20 South Front St. for five of those years.”
Mike Bryand is a talented photographer whose work has been published internationally by various publications,
including United Press International and Our State Magazine. Successfully turning his passion for photography into a career, he has amassed a vast portfolio that includes images of historic Wilmington, as well as beaches, sunsets, and local landmarks, spanning from Topsail Beach to Oak Island.
In addition to landscapes, Mike’s images also feature dogs and wildlife, as well as many other picturesque places on both the East and West Coasts. Mike has also photographed numerous racing events, including the Indianapolis 500, NASCAR, and MotoGP. In 2013, he served as the Official Artist
for both Riverfest and the Cape Fear Home Builders Association. His photography has also been featured on the cover of several publications.
Originally from Cranston, Rhode Island, Mike likes to joke that the map brought him to Wilmington. “He looked at the map, chose the largest city on the North Carolina coast, and ended up here,” Allie said. “Over 20 years ago, Mike was shooting different auto racing events for UPI. While doing that, a fellow photographer showed him an editing technique in Photoshop. This piqued his interest, and he began a self-taught journey in Photoshop. Over the course of two to three years, he developed his own skill set and style,” said Allie.
ground in healthcare, you can now see her managing the gallery’s storefront.
She is also creative, making jewelry that she sells in the gallery, and has recently started creating silkscreen art. “My main job at the gallery is curating the artists and their work,” said Allie. “I am always on the lookout for established and emerging North Carolina artists to introduce to Wilmington visitors and residents.”
The gallery is a huge supporter of local artists and participates in the Wilmington Fourth Friday ArtWalk monthly. The gallery is open seven days a week. Occasionally, they host artists from outside North Carolina for a spotlight ‘trunk show,’ when an artist will bring works and sell them that night at the gallery. “We only do this with about four or five artists, and they are not part of our mainstay,” said Allie.
When you walk into the gallery, chances are you will be greeted warmly by Allie Bryand. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Allie is happy to call Wilmington her home. With a back-
The Bryand Gallery is located at 20 South Front St., Wilmington Phone: 910-233-4296
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.”
Community
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, from the author’s website, Karen-white.com
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.
MARKETPLACE
HOMES/LAND FOR SALE
3419 MARLIN DRIVE | 2 BED | 1 BATH |
$154,900. This beautifully restored, partially furnished home is located in the serene, amenity-rich River Run Plantation community, just 25 minutes from Southport and Oak Island. Nestled on a shaded lot with a circular driveway, the home has undergone extensive upgrades—including a new roof, siding, flooring, windows, doors, and a 2024 covered porch. Inside, you’ll find luxury vinyl plank flooring, new fixtures, and tasteful décor throughout. The property includes a powered garden shed and even a tire swing. Community perks include a pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, kayak launch, trails, fishing pier, and boat/RV storage. Ideal as a primary residence or vacation home, it’s ready for immediate enjoyment. Call Sally Stidham, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 540-8320.
2391 FRINK LAKE DR. - BOILING SPRING LAKES. 3 BED | 2 BATH | $299,900. This charming home offers a peaceful lakefront retreat with an open floor plan and modern updates throughout. Recent renovations include a new front porch, stylish LVP flooring, and a refreshed kitchen with updated appliances and fixtures. Nestled in a peaceful setting on an elevated lot, this home offers a comfortable and open floor plan, perfect for accommodating extra guests. Call Sally Stidham, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 540-8320.
612-B W. BROWN STREET | 2 BED | 2 BATH | $420,000 Premium location! This immaculate, furnished condo is located in the quiet and peaceful neighborhood of The Village at Southport. This unit has an open floor plan with a sizable kitchen, dining area, living room, and an open deck that overlooks the community pool. The two bedrooms each have adjoining bathrooms and there is a separate laundry area. Assigned parking that can accommodate 2 cars can be found on the ground level along with a private storage room, and a central elevator. All exterior landscaping/maintenance is handled by the HOA. The location offers easy access to Morning Star Marina, and downtown for shopping, galleries, museums, restaurants, and enjoying the Cape Fear River views. Don’t miss out as these condos don’t come on the market often! Call Katherine Hufham, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-4045.
752 INDIGO VILLAGE COURT B-2 | 2 BED | 2.5 BATH | $299,999 This beautifully updated, low maintenance, unit leaves nothing to be desired. Recent renovations include new flooring upstairs, new refrigerator, quartz countertops, tiled backsplash, paint, light fixtures, tiled master bath shower, and updated vanities in both upstairs bathrooms, plus an updated powder room. The quaint lifestyle of Historic Southport is within your reach with this affordably priced property. Not only does Indigo Plantation have a marina, but there is also tennis, walking trails, and a saltwater swimming pool along with a clubhouse. Imagine living here year-round or using this property as your weekend retreat! Call Verilyn McKee, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-0527.
626 N. FODALE AVENUE | 3 BED | 1.5 BATH | $389,900. This charming Southport cottage, set on nearly half an acre, offers a peaceful lifestyle with convenient access to local amenities like the hospital, shops, dining, and the Cape Fear River. The well-maintained home features three bedrooms, bright and spacious living areas, a sunroom, and outdoor spaces including a patio, greenhouse, and flower-filled yard. Upgrades include luxury vinyl flooring, custom kitchen cabinetry, modern appliances, new fixtures, and a mix of brick and hardiplank siding with colorful accents. Complete with two sheds and rich in character, this warm and inviting home is a rare downtown Southport gem. Call Sally Stidham, Southport Realty Inc., for more information, (910) 540-8320.
SPOTTINGS
The Dosher Volunteers Organization announced the winners of their 2025 Health Service Education Grants. Each student will receive a scholarship for $5,000.00 toward tuition and supplies for the 2025-2026 school year. The recipients are (Above l-r) Kelly Edens Harris, RN, a Dosher Memorial Hospital staff member pursuing further nursing education at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington; John Fanning, a 2025 graduate of North Brunswick High School who will be attending East Carolina University as a member of the honors college, majoring in medicine; and Johnathan Chisholm-Brower, a 2025 graduate of South Brunswick High School who will be attending Lenoir-Rhyne University, majoring in physical therapy/sports medicine.
Dosher Memorial Hospital held its much-anticipated community cookout and 95th birthday party on Saturday, June 7, at the hospital front entrance. Approximately 525 guests enjoyed a cookout lunch, music, and the camaraderie of friends, neighbors, public officials, Dosher Trustees, Foundation board members, staff, and volunteers.
Speakers included Chairman of the Dosher Board of Trustees Robert Howard and Dosher President and CEO Lynda Stanley, with the National Anthem led by Trustee Jwantana Frink and an Invocation delivered by Dosher Trustee and Southport Fire Chief Charles Drew. Southport Mayor Rich Alt presented a Proclamation from the city, which acknowledged Dosher’s 95 years of providing high quality care for the community. The program concluded with the song “Lean on Me,” performed by a group of Dosher staff members.
Said Dosher President and CEO Lynda Stanley, “We value this opportunity each year to bring the community together to express our gratitude for their support. The Dosher Community Cookout celebrates more than the founding of our hospital. It celebrates the very special relationship the hospital has with patients, staff, and local residents.”
Dosher began hosting an annual cookout in 2022, and the 2023 cookout featured a groundbreaking ceremony which commemorated phase one of Dosher’s 7-year Master Facility Plan, which includes the construction of a new 8,000 square foot Emergency Department, scheduled to open this November. “We appreciate every single guest who took the time to celebrate with us,” said Stanley. “This community is the reason why Dosher has been able to provide 95 years of trusted care to our patients.”
You’llCALENDAR
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.
July
JUNE 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.
JUNE 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.
JULY 2
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 wagons 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.
JULY 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.
JULY 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.
JULY
19
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.
AUG
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 program is 10 am to 1 pm at the Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
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 12 (7-9) Christine Martinez Band
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
Take a trip down to the Museum of Coastal Carolina for Pirate week, July 6-11
CALENDAR
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
206 Sunset Blvd North
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.
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. 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.
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.
CALENDAR
Tide-Dye Tuesdays at Holden Beach
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
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, 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).
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. 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.
.Museum of Coastal Carolina
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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
July Home Game Schedule All Games 6 pm at Bill Smith Park
Thurs June 26 vs Carolina Yankees
Fri June 27 vs East Coast Iron Horses
Sun June 29 vs Randolph Ropon’ Roosters
Thur July 3 vs Sandhills Bogeys
Mon July 7 vs Shallotte Shallywags
Thurs July 10 vs Hope Mills Rockfish
Sun July 13 vs Carolina Yankees
Mon July 14 vs Hope Mills Rockfish
Don’t see your event 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!
Tues July 15 vs Laurenburg Hioghland Hooligans
Thurs July 17 vs Sandhills Bogeys
Swing by RE/MAX Southern Coast in Southport during the 4th of July parade and cool off with a glass of ice-cold lemonade! Every sip supports a sweet cause — all proceeds benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, helping kids and families across the country receive life-changing care. Start your celebration with something refreshing and meaningful we’ll be pouring from parade time until the last cup is gone!
Beginning at 10am on July 4th RE/MAX Southern Coast 319 N Howe Street, Southport, NC 28461
