While laying out this issue, I was paging through and got to thinking about what I’d think of it if I were a first time visitor to our community. That made me realize how much I’ve come to take for granted as my normal. Of course the hospital is hosting a picnic -- they do every year. The River Hotel is hosting bands and food trucks for anyone who cares to attend and enjoy a spectacular riverfront view. That’s become normal for us, but to a visitor, that’s standing out as pretty cool. Looking through our ads for shops and restaurants and there are tons, with not a national chain among them. For some, shopping at chain stores and dinner at Applebee’s is a great night out, but not us. Oak Island is holding a treasure hunt, Franklin Square Gallery is hosting a show and classes. We have festivals and markets and free outdoor concerts. These things just mean summer here, but not everyone has access to all of this on top of the beach and the river and the history and the activities. As we begin tourist season, we hope you’ll take a moment to appreciate that we get to live where others vacation.
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 is such a huge event, we thought you’d appreciate an early look at the schedule. 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 Open at Southport.
12:30 –3:30 pm: Old Brunswick Jail Open. Corner of N. Rhett Street/E. Nash Street. Hosted by the Southport Historical Society.
FRIDAY, JUNE 27
3:00 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. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
6:15 pm: Reading of the Declaration of Independence. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
6:30 pm: Brunswick Big Band. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
Saturday, June 28
7:30–10 am: Freedom Run 5K-1 Mile. Southport Waterfront.
10 am–5:00 pm: Summer Regional Art Show. 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. Nash Street. Hosted by the Southport Fire Department.
3 pm: Patriotic Concert - A Tribute to ALL Our Heroes. Sea Notes Choral Society. Brunswick Community College, Odell Williamson Auditorium.
Sunday, June 29
3 pm: Patriotic Concert - A Tribute to ALL Our Heroes. Sea Notes Choral Society. Brunswick Community College, Odell Williamson Auditorium.
5 pm: Gospel Fest. Franklin Square Park Stage.
6 pm World’s Largest Ice Cream Sundae. 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 Street. 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 Street. 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 Street. 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 Street. 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 Street. Presented by Southport Art Gallery Guild.
TUESDAY, JULY 1
7 am: Beach Day - Contest Registration at the Middleton Park Rec tent.
8 am: Beach Day - Volleyball at the Middleton Park Complex.
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 Complex Stage.
10 am: Beach Day - Cornhole at Middleton Park Complex.
10 am: Beach Day - Baby Crawling Race at Middleton Park Complex Stage.
11 am: Beach Day - Pre-K School Age Reusable Balloon Toss at Middleton Park Complex Stage.
11 am–2 pm: Beach Day - Inflatables at Middleton Park..
12: pm: Beach Day - Limbo (6th-12th grade & 18+ Divisions) at Middleton Park Complex Stage
5:30 pm: Welcoming Ceremony, Oak Island. Middleton Park Complex.
6 pm: Beach Day Concert - Chairmen of the Board Feat. Ken Knox at Middleton Park Complex Stage.
9 pm: Beach Day - Town of Oak Island Anniversary Fireworks. Oak Island Pier..
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
10 am–11 pm: Trolley available from Southport Elementary, 701 W 9th Street. Sponsored by Bald Head Island Limited, LLC and Intracoastal Realty Corporation. Trolley runs daily through July 4
10 am–7 pm: Arts & Crafts. Southport Waterfront. Sponsored by Beach Road Furniture. Runs through July 4
10 am–7 pm: Merchandise Tent Open. Southport Waterfront, with Arts & Craft Booths through July 4
11 am–10 pm: Food Concessions. South Howe Street. Through July 4
12–2 pm: Children’s Entertainment. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn. Organized by Brunswick Arts Council & Southport Rotary Club
1–3 pm: Cape Fear Radio. Southport Waterfront Park.
1 –5 pm: Military Exhibits. Southport Waterfront Park. Through July 4
3–4 pm: Brunswick Summer Wind Ensemble. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
4 pm: Red, White & Blue Freedom Flotilla. Southport Waterfront Park. Organized by Cape Fear Yacht Club.
4:30-5:30 pm: 440th Army Band. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn.
5:30 pm: Reading of the Declaration. Southport Waterfront Stage.
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.
7–10:00 pm: Waterfront Stage Entertainment, The Embers. Southport Waterfront Park. Sponsored by the State Port Pilot.
THURSDAY, JULY 3
9-11 am Children’s Games. Southport Waterfront Park. Registration opens at 8 am. Hosted by the City of Southport Parks & Recreation.
9:-10:00 am:Children’s Games. Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn. Registration opens at 8 am. Hosted by the City of Southport Parks & Recreation.
4th of July
11 am–4 pm: Kid Zone. Taylor Field. Inflatables and kid centric vendors.
11 am-noon: 440th Army Band. 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, Southport, Taylor Field Park
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.
3–6:00 pm: Waterfront Stage Entertainment - The Rick Cannon Band. Southport Waterfront Park. Sponsored by State Port Pilot.
7–10:00 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.
9–11:00 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.
11:00 am: Festival Parade. Moore and Howe Streets. Sponsored by WECT TV6 and Dosher Memorial Hospital.
12–3 pm: Cape Fear Radio. Waterfront Park, Southport.
1–3 pm: First Responders Vehicle/Helicopter Display. Southport Waterfront Park. Organized by the City of Southport Fire and Police Departments.
3–5:00 pm: UPWA Live Pro Wrestling. Nash Street.
3–6 pm: Waterfront Stage Entertainment - Back Porch Rockers. Southport 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. 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: Band Returns to Waterfront Stage. Southport Waterfront Park. Sponsored by State Port Pilot.
Community 2025 Medallion Hunt
Island Treasure Hunt For Fun And Prizes
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
It’s time for the second-annual Town of Oak Island Medallion Hunt, a fun and exciting event where the community comes together in a race to find the hidden medallion. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, this thrilling treasure hunt is a chance to explore our beautiful town, discover local businesses, and enjoy a little friendly competition beginning June 9.
Hallie Willis, Economic Development Manager for the town of Oak Island, said the town’s Business Advisory Board developed the Medallion Hunt to provide an easy way for town businesses to draw people to their locations.
“Each clue is placed inside a local business or public spot, so participants naturally walk through storefronts all week. All we ask of hosts is a safe hiding place and a friendly hello. There’s no extra staffing or
setup required,” Willis said.
She said last year’s event was a huge success. “Last year’s inaugural hunt wrapped up on Sept. 20 with two winners—Tina Jordan (grand prize) and Timothy Pope— plus dozens of glowing comments about how much fun people had exploring new shops,” she said. “Last year the first medallion was found on the second day, so we scrambled together a second one and made the hiding spot more difficult. The second one wasn’t found until the final (tentth) day.”
Willis said they hope to make this an the Medallion Hunt an annual Oak Island tradition.
HOW IT WORKS
1. Daily Puzzle Release: Every morning of the event, a new puzzle will be posted on www.oakislandnc.gov/government/clerk/boards-committees/medallion-hunt and the Town of Oak Island Facebook page. The answer to the puzzle will be the name of a business in the Town of Oak Island.
2. Find the Clue: Once you solve the puzzle and identify the business, head over to that location. At the business, you will find a clue that will lead you closer to the medallion’s hiding spot. Keep an eye out -- this clue is vital to your success in the hunt!
3. Search for the Medallion: Using the daily clues, search for the medallion hidden somewhere in the Town
of Oak Island. The first person to find it wins a special prize and the glory of being the champion of the hunt!
4. The Hunt Continues: The hunt will continue daily until someone successfully finds the medallion. Each day, new puzzles and clues will bring you closer to the final location, so be sure to participate every day to maximize your chances.
RULES
1. Eligibility: The medallion hunt is open to all individuals of all ages. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during participation. Participation is free, and no purchase is necessary.
2. How to Participate: Daily puzzles will be posted on the official Town of Oak Island Medallion Hunt webpage and Town of Oak Island Facebook Page each morning at 9 am. Solve the daily puzzle to reveal the name of a local business in Oak Island where a clue to the medallion’s location will be hidden. Visit the business, find the clue, and use it to help locate the medallion.
3. Medallion Search: The medallion will be hidden in a public, accessible location within Oak Island. No private property, restricted areas, or businesses will serve as the hiding spot for the medallion. The
medallion will not be buried underground or placed in any dangerous locations. There is no need to dig or engage in any activities that may cause harm to yourself or others. Please respect public and private property. Do not damage or disturb anything in your search for the medallion.
4. Clues: Clues will be available at the designated local business as revealed by the daily puzzle. Clues will be posted online at the end of each business day. Clues should not be answered or posted online before that time by participants.
5. Claiming the Medallion: The first person to find the medallion must call the number and provide the verification code located on the medallion. The winner must provide their name and contact information. The hunt will officially end once the medallion has been found and verified.
6. Conduct: Participants are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful and sportsmanlike manner at all times. Harassment, cheating, or unsportsmanlike behavior will result in disqualification. Please follow all local laws and ordinances during your participation in the medallion hunt.
7. Updates and Announcements: Any changes or updates to the medallion hunt will be communicated via the official Medallion Hunt webpage. Please check there for the latest information.
8. Disclaimer: The Town of Oak Island is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or damages that occur during the medallion hunt. Participate at your own risk. The town reserves the right to modify or cancel the event at any time due to unforeseen circumstances.
By participating in the Town of Oak Island Medallion Hunt, you agree to abide by these rules. Let’s work together to ensure a fun and memorable experience for everyone!
Last year’s Grand Prize winner, Tina Jordan, with Hallie Willis
Last year’s Second Prize winner Timothy Pope
SHOWCASE June Gallery News
First Friday Artist And Raffle Fundraiser
CONTRIBUTED
Franklin Square Gallery’s upcoming First Friday celebration for June will feature the works of painter Susanne Corbelletta. All are invited to stop by the Gallery on June 6 from 5-7pm, to enjoy a convivial evening of hors d’oeuvres, wine, music and fine art.
Susanne is a New York native and recent resident of Southport. She was classically trained at The Stevenson Academy of Traditional Painting in Sea Cliff, NY founded by Harold Stevenson, protégé and friend of Norman Rockwell. Inspired by Impressionism and Classical Realism, Susanne seeks to capture mood and atmosphere in her paintings using changes in light and broken color, hoping to invoke a sense of tranquility for the viewer. She draws inspiration from her surroundings and is always captivated when watching light and shadows move over a landscape. Susanne also enjoys painting
portraits, the figure and still life, where she can control the lighting and composition. Her award-winning paintings are privately collected and widely exhibited. They have been shown at The National Gallery, the Salmagundi Art Club, Federal Hall National Museum in NYC and in galleries and museums, nationally. Additionally, Susanne is honored by the US Coast Guard each year for her efforts painting the stories of its servicemen and women. She is most proud to be an artist for the United States Coast Guard, where she has joined the ranks of artists past, to assist in documenting the
Coast Guard’s history through paintings.
Susanne’s work will be on exhibit from May 26-June 19, and she will be present at the Gallery’s First Friday reception on June 6 from 5-7pm, to meet members of the community and discuss her work. As always, the public is invited to stop by the Gallery that evening, free of charge, for light refreshments and the opportunity to enjoy Susanne’s art and the art of the Gallery’s painters and potters, all of which is available for sale.
Fourth of July Raffle to Support Historic Building Restoration
The Associated Artists of Southport (AAS) and Franklin Square Gallery are excited to announce this year’s Fourth of July Raffle to raise funds for preserving and maintaining the Gallery’s beloved historic building. This Independence Day, AAS invites the community to come together in celebration of art, history, and the spirit of giving.
Raffle participants will have a chance to win beautiful prizes generously donated by AAS Members, including paintings, prints, pottery, ceramic sculpture and more! All proceeds will go directly toward maintaining the historic charm and structural integrity of the the Gallery’s cherished building, which has been a cornerstone of Southport’s creative spirit for decades. As Raffle chairperson Cheryl Rogers said, “We are excited to host this Raffle, which not only showcases the incredible talent in our community but also helps us preserve the historic building that has been home to our creative endeavors. We hope everyone will join us in making this day truly memo-
rable. Come celebrate Independence Day with us and make a difference in preserving our shared history!”
Raffle tickets are on sale now ($1 each or $5 for a book of six) and may be purchased at the Gallery or from AAS Members. The drawing will be held at 5 pm at Franklin Square Gallery on July 4, and winners need not be present to win. For more information, please contact Cheryl Rogers at 925286-8475 or auntducks@gmail.com.
Franklin Square Gallery, the home of AAS, is a non-profit cooperative of over 120 artists, and is currently accepting applications for new members. It is located at 130 E. West St. in the heart of historic downtown Southport, NC. With support from the Brunswick Arts Council ARPA Program, a Designated County Partner of the North Carolina Arts Council, the Gallery embodies the rich artistic culture that thrives in Southport. It offers original art and pottery for sale and is open to the public, free of charge, from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.
COMMUNITY Community Picnic
Join Dosher Memorial For Cookout
CONTRIBUTED
Dosher Memorial Hospital’s fourth annual Community Cookout is set for Saturday, June 7, at the front entrance of Dosher Hospital, at 924 N. Howe St., from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. All are welcome to join Dosher staff, trustees, volunteers, and hospital leaders for the celebration, which will include a cookout lunch, dessert, and music.
“This year’s cookout marks a milestone birthday for Dosher Hospital,” said Dosher President and CEO Lynda Stanley. “Dosher will celebrate 95 years of caring for our community at what has become a much-anticipated annual event. We look forward to honoring patients, staff and neighbors, along with the past, present, and future of local healthcare on June 7.”
There is no charge to attend this event. Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated. Go to Dosher.org/birthday, or call 910457-3900 for more information or to RSVP.
SALES | RENTALS | VACATIONS
Calque is a unique service designed to partner with community lenders,with its primary goal is to enable homeowners to purchase a new home before selling their current one.
Calque operates as a separate entity and is not affiliated with Integrity Home Mortgage Corp.
Let’s Connect Scan NOW!
*The Purchase Price Guarantee (PPG) ensures Calque will buy your current home at a pre-agreed price if it doesn't sell within a specified timeframe. This allows Integrity Home Mortgage Corp. to finance your new home as if the existing one is already sold. Calque provides two Buy-Before-You-Sell Solutions:
• Contigency Buster - eliminate contingencies from offers to succeed in bidding wars.
• Trade-In Mortgage - tap into your home's equity for a larger down payment, lowering monthly payments on your next home.
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
3 2 1 N E 6 0 t h S t r e e t
O a k I s l a n d ・ $ 6 9 9 , 0 0 0
3 B e d s | 2 B a t h s | 1 , 6 2 3 S q F t
1 1 7 N W 2 n d S t r e e t
O a k I s l a n d ・ $ 9 9 5 , 0 0 0
3 B e d s | 2 5 B a t h s | 2 , 1 2 0 S q F t
1 0 7 8 S p r i n g d a l e R o a d
S o u t h p o r t ・ $ 3 1 5 , 0 0 0
1 2 5 N E 3 4 t h S t r e e t
O a k I s l a n d ・ $ 9 2 5 , 0 0 0
3 B e d s | 2 B a t h s | 1 , 4 0 0 S q F t 4 9 1 2 D r e a m w e a v e r C t S E # 3 S o u t h p o r t ・ $ 2 3 8 , 9 0 0
3 B e d s | 2 . 5 B a t h s | 1 , 6 3 6 S q F t
1 0 3 R i d g e R o a d H a m p s t e a d ・ $ 5 6 5 , 0 0 0
3 B e d s | 4 5 B a t h s | 2 , 8 1 5 S q F t
2 B e d s | 2 B a t h s | 1 , 1 9 5 S q F t
3 4 1 H
Community Smuggler’s Run
Small-Batch Craft Sauces Available Locally
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
We love our craft beer and our small batch bourbons, so why not a small batch, artisanal barbecue sauce? Chuck Wilson, who you might see helping out guests at the Museum of Coastal Carolina in Ocean Isle Beach (that’s where we met him), saw a market for handcrafted sauces and turned a hobby into business. We spoke to Chuck about his Smuggler’s Run sauces, how they came to be, and what sets them apart.
Can you tell us the story of Smuggler’s Run? How it was created, ended, came back and now has expanded to two states?
That is best answered here by my nephew Tom:
Twenty-something years ago, my uncle Chuck had a desire to start a small business. With a passion to cook and share that love by feeding those in his circle, especially on the grill, BBQ sauces were the direction his
culinary compass pointed him. Three BBQs and a unique hot sauce were created and sold at small local markets; Fire Island Pirate Hot Sauce became an award-winning recipe because it was not just hot but offered a fiery heat with amazing flavor that complimented the food it was on.
Due to medical reasons Chuck closed the company and anchored the ship. The Smuggler was no more! When Chuck moved south to retire, he offered me (Tom) the few scraps of what was left of the venture, the recipes and some equipment. I began to distribute products throughout New York’s Wine Country and again saw strong growth in that market. Thirsty for more, I asked Uncle Chuck what he thought about joining him in the dream and being a vital part in opening up the Coastal Carolina region to these Pirate-themed creations. Currently, we have dozens of local retailers in both areas selling the Smuggler via a Direct Store Delivery (DSD) system where we service the store regularly and replenish what they have sold
Why did you choose Tom as the one to handle your sauce legacy?
Tom has always shown an interest in the sauce and
the business since its inception. We never had kids and while I love each of them (two nephews and 1 niece) Tom was always the best match for the business.
How did you choose these flavors to release?
It started with the hot sauce and I wanted to make It different from everything else out there, so i added a blend of herbs and spices to the mix. After that I just played with different flavor profiles until something slapped my pallet. I settled on:
Chili Lime-sweet tangy with a citrus twist Chipotle Cream-smooth and smokey
White Grilling Sauce-onion and garlic sauce for marinating that pops when used on the grill
What sets your small batch products apart from more mass produced offerings?
We feel small batch micro-brewed sauces lead to a better quality handcrafted product that today’s consumer strives for.
How did you decide on the maritime theme?
Bloomfield is a good way from the sea.
Starting small business is an adventure, to say the least, as is any good culinary experience. It seems like a natural course for it to take. The original four releases had versions of the hot sauce labels with a Skull and Crossbones. When we rebooted the brand we spent many hours creating the labels that more aptly fit the product names. The labels inspire the customer to try us. The flavor brings them back again and again.
What are the plans for there Future of Smuggler’s Run?
Our plans are to expand the hot sauce line to include flavor variations such as… Honey
Pineapple
Chipotle
We are in the process of perfecting these recipes and processes
How did you choose retailers in our region to sell your products?
We strove for mostly tourist venues. That way when a customer wants more after they return home from vacation, it drives our internet sales. But we have a good mix of outlets, some grocery, farm markets, gift shops and a few specialty food store such as a seafood store and butcher shop.
I understand you check on and restock your retailers in person. What’s the advantage of doing that?
Years back, I was a Wise chip delivery guy. Store/door service is a great way to maintain a strong relationship, excellent service and customer interaction. Translation…. We sell more product!! Lol
Please add anything else you’d like to include that I may have missed
We have seen more growth in the last year than ever before. The consumers appreciate the care and love that goes into out specialty sauces, making Smuggler’s Run truly a taste to die for!
Where Can I Buy Smuggler’s Run Sauces?
Museum of Coastal Carolina 21 E 2nd St, Ocean Isle Beach
Southport Cheese Shoppe
417 N Howe St Suite B, Southport
Jewelry by Wendy
10152 Beach Dr SW Ste 6, Calabash
Island Seafood Co.
6778 Beach Dr SW, Ocean Isle Beach
The Brew House
7207 Beach Dr SW, Ocean Isle Beach
Silver Coast Tap & Tasting Room
105 S Howe St, Southport
Ace Hardware Southport
8848 River Rd SE Southport
Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits
1 package Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix
1 tsp garlic
1 tsp Italian Seasoning
Crab:
1 pound lump crab meat, be sure it is fully cooked
¼ tsp paprika
¼ tsp onion powder
¾ cup Neptune‘s Fist White Grilling Sauce
1 tbsp mustard
½ Ritz crackers, crushed
1 cup grated parmesan
Make the biscuit mix according to package directions, set to the side. Preheat the oven to 375*, spray two muffin tins with nonstick spray.
In a bowl, combine the crab meat, paprika, onion powder, mustard, Nep-
tune’s Fist White Grilling Sauce and crushed crackers. Stir to combine well.
Using a scoop, place some biscuit mix on your hand that has been dusted with flour, Form a cup type of biscuit. Take a scoop of the crab mix and place it in the bowl part of the biscuit. Cover the biscuit with a little more biscuit dough. Continue until you have used all the dough. Place each biscuit into a muffin tray
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes
Brush with a mixture of melted butter and 1 tsp of lemon juice
Tex Mex BBQ Meatloaf
2 pounds ground beef
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
Ace Hardware
9030 Beach Dr SW Calabash
Callahan’s of Calabash 9973 Beach Dr SW Calabash
1 small onion, chopped
1 egg
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup Scurvy Dog Chili Lime BBQ
Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat, and scrape the grates clean. Spray grates with nonstick cooking spray.
In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, tarragon, sea salt, and black pepper. Divide the mixture in half, and form 2 loaves, each about 4 inches in diameter and 6 inches long. In a small bowl, mix the barbecue sauce with ketchup until well combined.
Place each meatloaf directly on the prepared grill grates, then spread each with about 3 tablespoons of barbecue sauce mixture; grill until the loaves reach an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees F (73 degrees C), about 1 hour.
Dill Pickle
Chamber News
Annual Biz Awards
Awards for Small Businesses And Non-Profit
CONTRIBUTED
I
n 2024, The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce accepted nominations for its annual business awards: Small Business of the Year and Non-Profit Organization of the Year. Businesses that received a Golden Pineapple, a quarterly customer service recognition award, in the previous four quarters were eligible to compete for the Small Business Customer Service of the Year.
Once nominated, the qualifying business or non-profit was required to submit a nomination packet, which was then presented to April Scott, Director of Brunswick Community College Small Business Center, for her review and recommendations.
Brooke Rudd-Gaglie, 2024/2025 Chamber President, Jeffrey Stites, Vice President of Business Development, and Bradley Narron, Chair of the Awards Committee, had the honor of making presentations to the following businesses:
2024/25 Small Business of the Year — Southport Jazzercise Southport Jazzercise is more than
just a fitness studio. It’s a community-driven powerhouse that promotes health, wellness, and empowerment in Southport. Through high-energy workouts, expert instruction, and an uplifting environment, Southport Jazzercise has positively impacted countless individuals by making fitness fun, accessible, and inclusive for all ages and fitness levels.
What sets Southport Jazzercise apart is its unwavering commitment to customer care weather in-person or virtually and community engagement. Their instructor goes above and beyond to create a welcoming atmosphere where participants feel supported in their fitness journey.
Beyond fitness, Southport Jazzercise plays an active role in giving back to the community, participating in local events, supporting charitable initiatives, and fostering a spirit of camaraderie. Their dedication to excellence in both service and community impact makes them the ideal recipient for the Small Business of the Year award.
The Golden Pineapple Award, symbolizing outstanding hospitality and customer service, perfectly tributes Southport Jazzercise’s ability to make every client feel valued, motivated, and part of something special. Their dedication to health, happiness, and community spirit makes them a standout small business in Southport.
2024/25 Non-Profit of the Year — Up Your Arts
Up Your Arts embodies the spirit of community enrichment by championing the arts in Southport. Their unwavering commitment to supporting artists, musicians, and art lovers has created a thriving cultural landscape that benefits the entire community.
Through innovative programming, strategic partnerships, and a relentless drive to expand access to the arts, Up Your Arts fosters a vibrant, creative environment where local talent flourishes.
Their dedication to collaboration is evident in their strong relationships with local businesses, which help cultivate new performance spaces and event venues. By working closely with galleries and artists, they ensure that the arts remain both accessible and celebrated, inspiring individuals of all ages and backgrounds. This commitment to inclusivity and artistic growth makes Up Your Arts a cornerstone of cultural development in Southport.
As a nonprofit that continually evolves to meet the needs of its community, Up Your Arts has demonstrated outstanding leadership, vision, and impact. Their passion for the arts enriches lives, strengthens the local economy, and enhances the cultural identity of Southport. For these reasons, Up Your Arts is truly deserving of the honor of being
Angela Dover, Southport Jazzercise Owner; 2024/25 Chamber President Brooke Rudd-Gaglie, Jeffrey Stites, Vice President of Business Development, Bradley Narron, Chair Chamber Awards Committee with a supporting cast of energetic Southport Jazzercise customers.
Jeffrey Stites, Vice President of Business Development Bradley Narron, Chair Chamber Awards Committee, Holly Mitchell-Account Manager, Sarah ButlerCustomer Service Representative, Zane Duncan-Account Manager, Chad Litton-Account Executive, Adam Litton-President, 2024/25 Chamber President Brooke Rudd-Gaglie
Chamber News
named Non-Profit of the Year.
2024/25 Small Business Customer Service of the Year — FinPoint Insurance Group
FinPoint Insurance exemplifies excellence in customer service, setting the standard for professionalism, reliability, and personalized care in Southport. Their team goes above and beyond to provide tailored insurance solutions, ensuring every client feels valued, heard, and well-protected. By taking the time to understand individual needs and offering clear, comprehensive guidance, FinPoint Insurance has built a reputation for trust and dependability.
What sets FinPoint Insurance apart is its commitment to fostering longterm relationships with its clients. Its responsive and knowledgeable team is always ready to assist, whether navigating policy options, handling claims efficiently and empathetically or offering proactive risk management solutions. Its dedication to transparency and accessibility ensures customers feel confident and
secure in their coverage.
Beyond its outstanding service, FinPoint Insurance actively supports the local community, reinforcing its role as a business that truly cares about the people it serves. Their unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, integrity, and expertise make them deserve the Customer Service Award of the Year.
Quarterly Golden Pineapple Award nominations are taken year round but beginning in July 2025. You may nominate a business or non-profit by visiting the Chamber’s website at www.chambersmallbusinessawards. com.
For more information about the Chamber’s Annual Awards please contact the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce at 910.457-6964, email at Info@southport-oakisland.com or visit the website at www.chambersmallbusinessawards.com
2024/25 Chamber President Brooke Rudd-Gaglie, Bob Gentile, Up Your Arts Board Member, Bradley Narron, Chair Chamber Awards Committee, Julie Mercer, Up Your Arts Director, John Keiffer, Up Your Arts Board President, Debra McLendon, Public Art for Up Your Arts, Jeffrey Stites, Vice President of Business Development
Keeping Fit
The Fire Within The Road Back To My Authentic Self
BY VICTOR FERNANDES
Victor Fernandes is owner of Fernandez Fit, helpjng clients achieve personal and professional success through health and fitness
The first half of 2025 has been a whirlwind, most notably due to the launch of my book, “Reclaiming My Authentic Self: A Journey from Fear to Freedom,” and the subsequent book signing events that followed.
And through it all, I hit a wall.
Burnout hit me to my core. I don’t mean the “I need a nap because I’m tired” kind of burnout. I mean the kind of burnout where our passion dims, our drive fades, and the things we once loved begin to feel like more work and less like the passion that drew us to them in the first place.
No amount of caffeine or pep talks could fix it. That’s when I knew something had to change.
I needed a reset — and traveling to a place that’s well off the beaten path pushed the right button.
During our youngest son Zach’s spring break from school in April, we finally took a long-awaited trip to the picturesque mountains of western North Carolina. The trip was originally postponed last September after Hurricane Helene struck the area with devastating force on the same day we were scheduled to make the five-hour trip across the state.
Our cabin was nestled deep in the woods, two miles down a dirt road that ran alongside a quiet river.
We had little to no cell service, and barely any internet. And honestly, I didn’t mind it at all. It was precisely what I needed to regroup and recharge.
One night, we lit a fire in the pit outside the cabin. My wife, Shelly, cap-
tured a photo of it that you may have seen if you follow me on social media, but I didn’t take the photo. My eyes were closed.
I was savoring being in the moment instead of trying to capture it — feeling the heat from the flames, hearing nothing but silence, and soaking in the peace and serenity of mountain life.
The fire wasn’t just for warmth. It relit the passion inside me.
It also reminded me of a valuable lesson I needed to learn again. At that moment, I realized something I already knew, but often ignore…
We run ourselves into the ground. We give until there’s nothing left, especially for ourselves.
That trip reminded me to check in
with me, to unplug, to breathe.
Because here’s the truth: if we don’t make time for rest and recovery, our bodies and minds will force us to do it, often at the most inconvenient time possible. We need to make space before we break.
Of course, we don’t need a mountain getaway every time in order to reset. We just need space. That could mean:
* 10 minutes of silence in the morning
* An evening walk
* A hard stop on phone use after dinner
* A full day offline each week
Rest and recovery aren’t a luxury. They aren’t selfish either. They’re a necessity.
When we protect our peace, we return sharper, stronger, and more grounded in our purpose.
Since then, I returned to work after that trip with a clearer mind, fresher energy, and a renewed sense of direction — my authentic self. I again know why I do what I do, and that feels really, really good. And this feeling should last me awhile, at least until the next time I need to get away.
Which takes me to a recent experience — namely a telephone conversation with a representative from my phone service provider. I spent 30 minutes explaining that you can’t suspend an account that doesn’t exist. And I be-
gan to lose my cool in the process.
Then five minutes after the call ended, Shelly showed me a text message from a friend saying my book has become her “bible.” She described it as “insightful,” “full of wisdom,” and “very uplifting.”
That instantly changed my mood at a moment when I needed something to bring my frustration and anger down a few notches. Those words absolutely made my day.
Whether it’s a trip to the mountains or a simple text message, those moments that truly rejuvenate us can be found anymore. If this message resonates with you, take a moment to reflect, reset, and rekindle your own fire — because as I always say…
Fitness Is Our Business.
If you would like to learn more about improving your mindset and taking control of your health and well-being, or if you would like to learn more about me and Fernandes Fit, call 814504-7774, send an email to info@fernandesfit.com, or head to fernandesfit. com.
Community Registration Open
The 2025 NC 4th of July Fest Freedom Run
STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
It seems like we just started with spring, but it’s already time to start planning for the NC 4th of July Festival! If you’re new to the area, this is a weeklong event not to be missed. Highlights of the celebration include picnics, arts and crafts, a car show, parade, fireworks, firemen’s competition, children’s games, live entertainment nightly, great food, and, of course, lots of red, white, and blue.
Registration for one of the festival’s most popular events, the Freedom Run and Walk sponsored by Novant Health, is open now. The run will be held on Saturday, June 28 with the 1-Mile Run/Walk beginning at 7:30 am and the 5k Run/ Walk at 8 am. Both races begin and end at Southport’s Waterfront Park on Bay Street and participants are guaranteed a Freedom Run t-shirt if entered by June 14. This year’s fee is $35 for the 5K. There is no charge for the 1-mile run/walk. Interested participants can visit the festival’s website, www.nc4thofjuly.com, for details and an entry form. Fleet Feet of Wilmington, NC, will be contributing to
winner prizes.
“For over 200 years, Southport, North Carolina, has celebrated the nation’s independence. More than 50,000 people visit during the festival each year, and we’re excited to welcome even more visitors this year,” said festival committee member Trisha Howarth. “We’re proud to offer such a unique and memorable experience for families celebrating this important holiday.”
For more information on the festival, please visit www.nc4thofjuly.com.
Summer Art Show
Call For Artists Countywide To Participate
STORY CONTRIBUTED
The Associated Artists of Southport (“AAS”) invites artists throughout the lower Cape Fear region to submit original artwork for exhibit in Franklin Square Gallery’s Summer Art Show, scheduled for June 23-July 19. The event will showcase 2D work in a wide variety of media and styles, and 3D work in the form of pottery and sculpture. All work featured in the Show will be offered for sale to the public.
Exhibiting artists will compete for more than $1,200 in prizes awarded by this year’s judges, Rachel Sunnell (2D), an award-winning painter and instructor based in Brunswick County, and Jamie Futera (3D), an accomplished painter and sculptor based in North Myrtle Beach whose work encompasses a variety of media. The public is invited to attend the Opening Reception and presentation of awards on Friday, July 11 from 5-7 pm at the Gallery.
To enter work in the show, artists must register by June 6. Application forms and entry fees ($36 for AAS members; $46 for non-members) must be submitted online using the link provided at https://www. franklinsquaregallery.com/home. Additional information regarding the Show may be obtained on the Gallery’s website or by contacting Show chairperson Marian MacKerer at mtmackerer@gmail.com or 301-943-8326.
Artists may also wish to consider enrolling in the 2-day painting workshop that
Rachel Sunnell will be offering on June 1617, from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm at the Gallery. Entitled “Creating Color Harmony,” this immersive workshop is open to acrylic and oil painters of all skill levels, and will focus on essential techniques for exploring and creating color harmony. Space is limited, so interested artists are encouraged to visit the Gallery’s website for more information regarding registration and fees.
Franklin Square Gallery, the home of AAS, is a cooperative of more than 120 artists, and is currently accepting applications for new members. It is located at 130 E. West Street in the heart of historic downtown Southport. With support from the Brunswick Arts Council ARPA Program, a Designated County Partner of the North Carolina Arts Council, the Gallery embodies the rich artistic culture that thrives in Southport. It offers original art and pottery for sale and is open to the public, free of charge, from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.
Hurricane Food Kits
Considering Health And Safety In Storm Prep
STORY CONTRIBUTED
Hurricane season is here and it’s time to prepare an emergency hurricane kit. There are lots of lists available to follow, however, most of these lists are fairly limited when it comes to advice about food and food safety. They usually say something like “shelf stable foods” or “an emergency food and water supply.” The Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) team from the Cooperative Extension in Brunswick County has developed a program that expands and clarifies these instructions.
The Hurricane Meal Kits: Nutrition and Food Safety program encourages assembling a kit of food specifically for use during and after a hurricane. Developing a plan, a shopping list and collecting a few recipes with shelf stable foods will enable the preparation of nutritious and safe meals during a natural disaster. Being prepared and having a hurricane meal kit can help reduce stress and
anxiety and will provide healthy meals during an emergency. Food safety before, during, and after power outages is also an important part of the meal kits program.
The Family and Consumer Science team is taking this Hurricane Meal Kits: Nutrition and Food Safety program on the road to several of the libraries in the
are free of charge and open to the public. Pre-register at the specific library. Upcoming class locations include:
• June 6: 10-11 am at Barbee Library, Oak Island
• June 10: 10-11 am at Southwest Library, Carolina Shores
• June 24: 11 to noon at Rourke Library, Shallotte
Teams will also be at the Hurricane Expo at the Leland Cultural Center on Saturday, June 14, from 10 am t0 2 pm. A sample hurricane kit will be shared along with suggestions for how to personalize a kit.
Team members are available to teach this class at additional locations. If you have a group that would be interested, contact Avery Ashley, Brunswick County Family and Consumer Science Extension Agent at 910-253-2610 or at arashley@ncsu.edu.
Information on the Hurricane Meal Kit program can also be found in the Family and Consumer Science (FCS) section of the NC Brunswick County Cooperative Extension website. This information includes sample hurricane shopping lists and recipes that use these foods. There is also a link to a YouTube video featuring hurricane foods along with a simple no-cook recipe.
county. These classes
Homemade Desserts
Fresh Local Seafood
Nighly Dinner Specials
Golf Tips
Nicole’s Golf Notes
Importance Of Keeping Up Pace Of Play
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.
Irecently had the pleasure of attending an online webinar with coaching greats Pia Nilsson and Lynn Marriott of Vision54. Pia and Lynn coach many of the top Tour players but have helped thousands of golfers through their schools, presentations and resources for playing the game of golf, not focusing on just the mechanics of the game. Their holistic approach takes into account the Human Factors that we all deal with (tension, tempo, balance, self-talk, emotional resilience, etc.) and give us ways to explore how to be a better human, and therefore golfer, in our self-regulation and growth…fun stuff, and it works! Going to one of their programs is like a special holiday x 10. It’s super rewarding.
I recently had the pleasure of attending an online webinar with coaching greats Pia Nilsson and Lynn Marriott of Vision54. Pia and Lynn coach many of the top Tour players but have helped thousands of golfers through their schools, presentations and resources for playing the game of golf, not focusing on just the mechanics of the game. Their holistic approach takes into account the Human Factors that we all deal with (tension, tempo, balance, self-
talk, emotional resilience, etc.) and give us ways to explore how to be a better human, and therefore golfer, in our self-regulation and growth…fun stuff, and it works! Going to one of their programs is like a special holiday x 10. It’s super rewarding. They’ve begun to address the issue of golfers spending way too much time on the preparation for a golf shot and how to become a better player with Less Thought. If you think about it, a golf swing
takes two seconds…multiply that times 70/80/90/100 shots and it really only takes 2-3-ish minutes to actually play this game. All the other time is spent moving, or not moving, along and that affects your group and all the groups playing behind you. We are EACH responsible for a pace of play as a courtesy to our fellow players within our group and everyone else on the course that day. It’s part of the game’s etiquette and just common kindness to other humans.
Consider some of Pia and Lynn’s pace of play concerns and ideas relating to PreShot Routine within their new Pace of Play Training Guide…
—Golf is not a reactionary sport like basketball, football, tennis or soccer. In golf, the ball is sitting there waiting for you to take action! Players have a tendency to take more and more time to prepare with the expansion of data options available before a shot. Also, very few players have ever had their routines timed or explored to determine what is optimal for their performance. It’s like over-packing! Each item is good and useful, but all together, it’s just too much! A carry-on would be much better.
—In golf, you need to volitionally pull the trigger and execute. Standing too long over the ball makes it too easy to get distracted under perceived pressure. It also makes it harder to be athletic and use your instinct. A more efficient pre-shot routine will save you a lot of energy for the actual execution and for entire round and a whole tournament.
—There are many things affecting pace of play. There are obvious things that improve pace of play: being ready to play when it’s your turn (start preparing while others are hitting their shots), choosing where you leave your bag or cart by the green, deciding when it makes sense to write on the scorecard (when others are hitting).
—For many, the missing piece is fine-tuning your own routine — how do you best prepare for a shot and execute to play great and be efficient.
—We want to highlight the Think Box (the preparation for a shot) and the Play Box (when you step into a shot and simply execute). We have seen this Think Box space get larger and take more time for so many players. We are particularly concerned about this with junior players we support who are learning the game and starting to compete more. The availability of information to make a decision has expanded, players are obsessing and wanting to make sure not to miss anything – get the exact yardage in a myriad of different ways, checking wind, lie conditions, slopes, making enough practice swings until it feels right, lining up the ball perfectly on the green, etc. We feel it’s getting totally out of hand and it makes players over-prepare and underperform, as well as making the game way too slow.
REMINDER: Two important things in the Think Box are ‘make a decision about a shot or putt’ and ‘get an internal GO signal.’
Stay tuned for more parts to this series!
Showcase Theatre Happenings
“More Fun Than Bowling” and Auditions
CONTRIBUTED
Brunswick Little Theatre is holding auditions for the Jones, Hope and Wooden comedy “Hallelujah Girls” on Sunday and Monday June 1 and 2 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm in the classrooms behind the theatre at 8068 River Rd SE in Southport. Callbacks, if necessary, will be Wednesday, June 4 at 6:30 pm. Actors aditioning should bring a headshot or candid photo and be prepared to list conflicts between June 8 and July 30. Auditions will be from selected sides from the show. “Hallelujah Girls” will open July 31 and the final of 10 shows will be on August 17. Performances will be on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Contact Director Dan Barth at dbarthnc@outlook.com or 617-921-0260 with any questions.
Synopsis:
Hilarity abounds when the feisty females of Eden Falls, Georgia, decide to shake up their lives. The action in this rollicking Southern comedy takes place in SPA-DEE-DAH !, the abandoned church-turned-day-spa where this group of friends gathers every Friday afternoon. After the loss of a dear friend, the women realize time is precious, and if they’re going to change their lives and achieve their dreams, they have to get on it now!
Character Overview:
⁃ The characters call for age ranges of 50 to 65. However, the director has some flexibility in casting and if you can play ages 40 to 70 you are encouraged to audition.
The Characters
Carlene Travis – female, 50s, a no-nonsense gal with a dry wit.
Nita Mooney – female, 50s, a very sweet and simple country woman.
But Sugar Lee, their high-spirited, determined leader, has her hands full keeping the women motivated. Carlene’s given up on romance, having buried three husbands. Nita’s a nervous wreck from running interference between her problematic son and his probation officer. Mavis’ marriage is so stagnant she’s wondering how she can fake her own death to get out of it. And sweet, simple Crystal entertains them all, singing Christmas carols with her own hilarious lyrics. The comic tension mounts when a sexy ex-boyfriend shows up unexpectedly, a marriage proposal comes from an unlikely suitor and Sugar Lee’s archrival vows she’ll stop at nothing to steal the spa away from her. By the time the women rally together to overcome these obstacles and launch their new, improved lives, you’ve got a side-splitting, joyful comedy that will make you laugh out loud.
Mavis Flowers – female, 65, blunt but likable.
Crystal Hart – female, 50s, daffy and lovable, sings and plays Jingle Bells on the piano (you do not actually play the piano).
Sugar Lee Thompkins – female, 50s vivacious.
Bunny Sutherland – female, 50s, upbeat and seemingly pleasant with an ever-ready smile.
Bobby Dwayne Dillahunt – male, 50s, rugged good looks with a self-depreciating sense of humor.
Brunswick Little Theatre opens its 2025 Summer Season with “More Fun Than Bowling,” a play by Steven Dietz directed for BLT by Rosina Whitfield. Shows will run June 5-8, 13-15 and 20-22 at the theatre at
“More Fun Than Bowling” cast
8068 River Rd SE in Southport.
BLT’s Jeanette Harrison-Sullivan said, “ This droll, quirky, philosophical comedy/ drama uses bowling as a metaphor for life and is rich with an abundance of amusing, unconventional characters.” She offered the following synopsis:
Jake Tomlinson is the eccentric owner of a bowling alley with a complicated life. As a young man, a foul tipped baseball broke Jake’s fingers, but luckily, the accident to his hand formed a perfect bowler’s grip. Now divorced, twice a widower and a single father, Jake is raising his teenage
daughter Molly who is often tickled but understanding about her father’s ways. In flashback sequences, Jake is also often visited by his two deceased, but cheerful wives, Lois and Loretta. Added to the mix, there’s a mysterious revolver-wielding stranger constantly lurking in the shadows, but who takes time to chat directly with the audience. Join us to see if this complicated but heartwarming tale ends with “happily ever after.”
Tickets are available at www.brunswicklittletheatre.com or Ricky Evans Gallery, 211 N. Howe Street, Southport.
FISHING REPORT
June Fishing Report
Summer Is Here—And So Are The Fish!
BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK
We’ve enjoyed a fantastic spring with generally favorable weather and very good ocean conditions. From the backwaters to the Gulf Stream, anglers are finding consistent action.
Backwater
Despite multiple closures affecting some of our favorite species, the fishing remains both productive and fun. Speckled trout have reopened following a winter closure due to cold conditions and are now showing up in good numbers. Fishing fast-moving currents around structure is a great way to get bites from these feisty fish.
Flounder fishing has really heated up. While it’s currently catch-and-release only, a harvest season is expected this year—though the exact timing is still unknown. Gulp shrimp or paddle tails on a jig head will draw plenty of strikes. A Carolina rig with live pogies or mud minnows is another highly effective setup.
Red drum are cruising the flats in the river and along marsh grass near oyster beds. They’re particularly active on a
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
falling tide, when bait is flushed out of the marshes. Early mornings are ideal for tossing topwater plugs for exciting surface strikes. During the day, using a quarter of a blue crab on a jig head or Carolina rig is sure to keep the action going.
Nearshore
Spanish mackerel and bluefish have been providing steady action. The best time to catch them is early in the morning, before the sun gets high. As the day progresses, the fish tend to move deeper and become less active.
Trolling Clarkspoons on a No. 1 or No. 2 planer is an effective way to cover water. Look for birds working over schools of glass minnows to locate Spanish mackerel. Instead of driving straight through the school, circle around the birds for better success. If you see fish jumping and feeding on the surface, casting weighted jigs on light tackle makes for great fun.
Offshore
There are plenty of fishing opportunities in the 12-40 mile range this time of year. Grouper fishing has been excellent in 75-100 feet of water. Dropping live pinfish on a grouper rig is a reliable method to entice these delicious bottom dwellers.
Cobia have arrived and are holding on wrecks and live bottom in 50-75 feet of water. To target cobia, try anchoring up-current from the structure, deploying a chum bag, and putting out live baits under balloons. The chum draws them in, and they often take the live baits. Keep a spinning rod rigged with a bucktail handy for any cobia that swim up beside the boat.
With clean, blue Gulf Stream water pushing inshore, mahi-mahi are mov-
FISHING REPORT
ing in as well. The Horseshoe, Navy Wreck, and Frying Pan Tower are great spots to target summer mahi. Trolling
small ballyhoo behind a seawitch lure is a productive technique.
Gulf Stream
While the Gulf Stream fishing may slow down in variety during summer, the quality of fish goes up. Big mahi, yellowfin tuna, and billfish will be around throughout the season. Though the action can be more sporadic, a well-defined weedline can produce excellent fishing.
The best way to work a weedline is with cut-up bonito chunks. Toss a handful of chunks near the weedline and watch for mahi to appear. Then bait a hook with a chunk and cast it into the mix for a solid chance at a hookup.
Summer fishing off our coast offers incredible diversity and the opportunity to target a wide variety of species. Get out there and enjoy the water!
Art Beat
Basket Weaving A Personal Take On An Ancient Craft
STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM
Basket 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
tight, but my nails are probably my best tool.”
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-
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.”
You can reach Carol by email at cszot417@gmail.com.
the reed
Summer Solstice Fest
Making Music And More In Ocean Isle
STORY BY JEFFREY STITES, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
If the day is long, why not fill it with music? And if you’re going to have music, why not throw in storytellers, food, arts and crafts and maybe even a little Shakespeare? That’s the idea behind the Brunswick Arts Council’s Solstice Festival coming to Ocean Isle Beach Park, on the mainland at 6483 Old Georgetown Road SW, on Saturday, June 21 from 10 am to 8 pm.
You’ll be able to hear
2 pm — Empress
3 pm - 6 pm — Open Mic-3 hours - use QR code (see next page) to follow instructions to free entry
6 pm — Ian Daviz
7 pm — Tina Smith Trio-Tina Smith, Lynwood Salvo, Bass, Cliff Hackford, Drums
others perform or join the fun yourself during three hours of Open Mic performances. To participate in the Open Mic shows, just scan the QR code on the graphic on this page. This year’s Solstice Festival is happening in conjunction with the worldwide Make Mu- sic Day event. What’s make Make Music Day you ask? Mary Beth Livers, executive Director of the Brunswick Arts Council explains:
“Make Music Day, which originated in 1982, is a global celebration observed on the same day in over 1,000 cities across numerous countries. This unique music festival invites everyone to participate, regardless of age or skill level. Whether you’re a budding amateur or a seasoned professional, there’s a place for you in this harmonious gathering.
The beauty of Make Music Day lies in its inclusivity. It doesn’t matter whether you’re strumming your guitar on a front porch, belting out tunes on a grand stage, or tapping out rhythms on a city sidewalk. All musical styles are welcome—jazz, rock, classical, hip-hop, and everything in between.
And the best part? It’s completely free and open to the public. So, mark your calendar for June 2, and let’s create a symphony that resonates around the world!”
Make Music Day SOLSTICE FESTIVAL at Ocean Isle Beach Park
Performance Stage Times
10 am — Purple Reign
11 am — BAC Community Players A Midsummers Night Dream, 30 minutes, Rosina Whitfield Director
11:30 am — Dougy “YellowBeard” McKenna story telling & performance
Noon — The Reflections
1 pm — Camp Fireball w/Corey Howard
Empress
Ian Davis
Purple Reign
Tina Smith Trio
The Reflections
June Home Game Schedule
All Games 6 pm at Bill Smith Park
Thurs June 5 vs Shallotte Shallywags
Sunday June 8 vs Jacksonville Ospreys
Mon June 9 vs Sandhills Bogeys
Tues June 10 vs Hope Mills Rockfish
Thurs June 12 vs Jacksonville Ospreys
Sun June 15 vs Shallotte Shallywags
Mon June 16 vs New Bern Southpaws
Thurs June 19 vs Jacksonville Ospreys
Sun June 22 vs Laurinburg Highland Hooliganss
Tues June 24 vs Laurinburg Highland Hooligans
Thursday June 26 vs Carolina Yankees
Fri June 27 vs East Coast Iron Horses
Sun June 29 vs Randolph Ropon’ Roosters
HOMES/LAND FOR SALE
3419 MARLIN DRIVE | 2 BED | 1 BATH | $170,000. 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.
3120 GEORGE II HWY | $634,900.
Prime Commercial Opportunity in Boiling Spring Lakes! Strategically positioned at the busiest intersection in Boiling Spring Lakes, this 3,795 SF heated commercial property sits on a high-visibility 1.52acre corner lot at the traffic light of Highway 87 (George II Hwy) and W Boiling Spring Road. Boasting 262 feet of road frontage along Highway 87 and accessibility from three different roads-Highway 87, W Boiling Spring Road, and Sunset Road-this property offers unparalleled exposure to passing traffic and potential customers. With ample paved parking, paved driveways, 1.5 bathrooms, and a rear bay garage door, this versatile space can
MARKETPLACE
accommodate a variety of businesses, from retail and office use to service-based industries and more. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to secure a high-traffic, high-visibility commercial property in one of the fastest-growing areas of Brunswick County. Call Myles Williams, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 457-7676.
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 | $322,500
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.
5517 E BEACH DRIVE, OAK ISLAND OCEANFRONT LOT #9.
0.17 ACRES | ZONED R-7 | LISTED AT $775,000. Turn your dreams of building an oceanfront home into
a reality this season! This beautiful Oak Island parcel presents a rare opportunity to own your piece of paradise. Listed at $775,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Amy Gereb at 336543-0220 for details.
L-7 JABBERTOWN, SOUTHPORT
7.87 ACRES | ZONED R-6000 | LISTED AT $750,000. EXPANSIVE PARCEL OPPORTUNITY. Are you a builder, developer or builder looking to capitalize on a highly desirable location in Brunswick County? Look no further than this large, expansive parcel in Southport. This rare opportunity just outside the Southport city limits in a prime location provides ample room for residential development, easy access to Southport’s nearby amenities, and much more! Listed at $750,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Jonathan McLaughlin at 910269-8200 for more information.
306 ELIZABETH DRIVE, OAK ISLAND BEAUTIFUL WIDE LOT ON MARSH. 0.52 ACRES | ZONED OKR-9 | LISTED AT $315,000. Getting to the beach is easy when you’re so close! Located just along the marsh, in the highly sought after Yaupon area of Oak Island, this stunning 100foot wide lot has been cleared and a bulkhead installed. If walking along the path to watch sunrises and sunsets at the viewing area sounds like a dream to you, then reach out for more information. Listed at $315,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Brooke Rudd at 910-512-1361 for details.
659 BROOKNEAL STREETS SE, BOLIVIA TWO LOTS, PRICED RIGHT. 0.30 ACRES | ZONED R60 | LISTED AT $65,000. Located on a nice, residential street located in the sleepy seaside town of Sunset Harbor, you’ll find Lot 40 and 41, priced right and ready for your Brunswick County home. Home to some of the most incredible sunsets, the public boat launch is located just around the corner, and the community has no HOA! This is your chance to live that coastal lifestyle at an affordable price. Listed at $65,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Kristie Beasley at 910-231-6204 for more information.
116 SE 52ND STREET, OAK ISLAND. JUST LISTED!! 0.16 ACRES | ZONED R-6 | LISTED AT $420,000. Location! Location! Location! Building the ultimate beach retreat or investment property is possible with this newly listed parcel of residential land in the East Long Beach area of Oak Island. This exceptional corner lot boasts breathtaking views and is mere steps from the sandy shores. With access to charming shops, delightful restaurants and more - you won’t want to miss this amazing chance to turn your dreams into reality! Listed at $420,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS. Call Tiffany Baker at 919-842-2399 for more information.
SPOTTINGS
On May 15, GFWC Southport Woman’s Club had the honor to attend South Brunswick High School’s Senior Department Awards/Scholarship Night. Presenting the scholarship was Penny Tysinger, President and Patricia Grecco, Co-Chair of Scholarship Committee. The recipient of the Sallie Southall Cotten scholarship was Connor Joseph Walls. Connor will be attending East Carolina University with a major in engineering. Connor excelled in academic excellence, leadership, community service and achieving Eagle Scout. Connor’s future goal is to be an astronaut.
Aaliya Strohmeier, an EVS Tech from Environmental Services, is the most recent recipient of the hospital’s Employees Exceeding Excellence, “Triple E” award. Aaliya was recognized for being courteous and respectful to both patients and staff and for going out of her way to give everyone personalized attention. Aaliya’s nomination noted, “She understands the importance of teamwork, and she takes her work seriously. This mindset coupled with her work ethic makes her a true asset to the Dosher team!”
Aaliya has been part of the Dosher team since June of last year. Dosher Triple E’s are nominated by their peers on a quarterly basis.
Thanks to the generosity of local supporter Allison Fox, Brunswick Community College’s Southport Center for Heritage Arts is basking in a whole new light—literally and figuratively. Fox’s recent gift, made through The Foundation of Brunswick Community College, funded the purchase and installation of two banks of commercial windows that mark the beginning of the Center’s next phase of growth and renovation.
“This generous gift has illuminated more than just space—it has sparked momentum for our future,” said Barbara McFall, Director of the Southport Center. “Donors like Allison Fox provide the confidence and encouragement we need to keep our vision moving forward. Once complete, planned renovations will allow us to provide up to six new classrooms or studios, supporting as many as 72 additional weekly classes.”
Left: Instructors Gina Poppe (fused glass), Spencer Hayden (metal sculpture), Southport Center Director Barbara McFall, BCC President Gene Smith, and Foundation Executive Director Theresa Nelson thanking donor Allison Fox (off camera) for her incredible gift.
Above left to right :Penny Tysinger, Connor Walls and Patricia Grecco
CALENDAR
You’ll 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.
June
MAY 29-31
Juried Art Exhibit and Sale
The Art League of Leland’s (ALL) It’s ALL Art 6th Annual Juried Exhibition and Sale will be held at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way. Show dates and times are 10 am to 6 pm on May 29, and 10 am to 4 pm on May 30-31. Free admission and parking.
JUNE 3-25
Art Exhibit at the Leland Cultural Arts Center
This month, the gallery features Marybeth Bradbury, who creates colorful contemporary paintings. Her works will be on display during the Center’s regular hours. Meet the artist at a reception on June 5, from 6-8 pm at the Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland.
JUNE 6 (AND JUNE 27)
Green Sweeps — Leland
Volunteers help staff spruce up the parks, 9-11 am. June 6 will be Westgate Nature Park and June 27 will be at Cypress Cove Park.
JUNE 7
Food Truck Rodeo — Belville’s Riverwalk Park
The third-annual rodeo is 11 am to 4 pm at Riverwalk park, 584 River Road SE. The day will feature great food from all sorts of food trucks and live music from School of Rock, a beer garden, a dunk tank, inflatables and games for kids, and craft vendors.
JUNE 7
Art Around Town — Leland
The June session of the Town of Le-
land’s Art Around Town program features tie-dying at Brunswick Beer and Cider, 1313 S. Dickinson Dr, Leland. Participants are encouraged to bring their own t-shirt or garment to dye, or they may choose from a selection of provided items. The program is noon to 3 pm, and registration is not required.
JUNE 7
Dosher Cookout
Enjoy a summer cookout at the front entrance of Dosher Hospital, at 924 N. Howe St. from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm. All are welcome to join Dosher staff, Trustees, Volunteers, and hospital leaders for the celebration, which will include a cookout lunch, dessert, and music. Pre-registration is appreciated; visit Dosher.org/birthday, or call 910-4573900.
JUNE 12
Cape Fear Civil Round Table - Wilmington
This month’s meeting features a presentation by Dr. Angela Zombek, Ph.D., associate professor of history at UNCW. Dr. Zombek, an expert on the prisoner of war experience in the Civil War, will talk about the strategic Union outpost of Fort Jefferson, the largest brick masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere, located on the remote island Garden Key in the Dry Tortugas, 70 miles west of Key West. Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the program starts at 7 pm. The meeting will be held in Elebash 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.
JUNE
14
Youth Fishing Day — Belville
Children ages 6-15 can enjoy a morning of fishing at Belville Riverwalk Joseph A. Breault Fishing Pier, 584 River Road SE. The event is 7 am to noon, with three times slots available. Registration with the Town of Belville is required.
JUNE
14
Hurricane Expo — Leland
The Town of Leland hosts this annual expo to help residents prepare for storm season. Visit with Town personnel and area partner agencies to learn what to do before, during, and after a storm. The expo is 10 am to 2 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
JUNE 14
Electronics Recycling — Seaside
Take old electronics (and their batteries and cords, but no light bulbs) to a recycling collection at Seaside Methodist Church, 1300 Seaside Road SW, Sunset Beach. The event is free and there will be volunteers on site to help unload your vehicle. Electronics will be accepted starting at 9:30 am until 11 am or until the truck is full, whichever comes first.
JUNE 14-15
Frying Pan Tower Dash — Cape Fear Yacht Club
The Dash is an open Regatta, for Self-Righting Boats 20’ and up. This is an overnight race starting in the Cape Fear River Channel past Bald Head between 6 and 6:30 pm on Saturday, June 14, and the time limit to complete the race expires at noon on Sunday. Visit https://www.capefearyachtclub.com/regattas for more information.
JUNE 19
Elevating Access Golf Tournament
The Ocean Isle Museum Foundation is hosting this fundraiser which will benefit efforts to improve access to some areas of the Museum of Coastal Carolina. The tournament is at Ocean Ridge’s Tiger’s Eye golf course, 8 am to 1 pm. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ event/elevating-access-golf-classic/ to register or find other ways to support the event.
JUNE 20
Teens Night Out — LCAC
Teens ages 13-17 can enjoy a night of music, play games or make a project in one of the art studios at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way. The event is 7-9 pm, and the cost is $5.
JUNE 21
Make Music Day & Solstice Festival
The Brunswick Arts Council hosts this annual festival, held this year at the Ocean Isle Beach Park, 6483 Old Georgetown Road SW. The festival features seven musical groups, an open mic from 3-6 pm, food, and arts and crafts vendors. The festivities are 10 am to 8 pm.
JUNE 21
Swing Dance
No experience needed for this fun night of dance! Instructors will lead a group lesson, followed by open dance. The dance is 7-10 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center 1212 Magnolia Village Way. This is a free event.
JUNE 21
Luau Dance — Oak Island
Everyone loves a summer luau, and this event at the Oak Island Recreation Center will be a fun afternoon filled with dancing, finger foods and even a photo booth. The dance is 3-5 at the Rec Center, 303 E. Oak Island Drive. The cost is $20/couple for residents and $25/couple for non-residents.
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 1
Beach Bash — Ocean Isle Beach
The Town of Ocean Isle Beach and the Museum of Coastal Carolina are hosting this beach party for all ages at Town Center Park, 11 E. Second St. The party is 10 am to noon, and will include activities, crafts, music photo ops, and
Summer Activities and Events
JUNE 4
(and 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
ments (a limited number of free bicycle helmets will be available for free), June 12 is Character Day, June 19 is Arts & Crafts Day and June 26 is Nature Day, including a change to meet Shally, the Town mascot
Kids Activities in Ocean Isle Beach
Town Center Park
11 E. 2nd St.
Art in the Park — craft making is at 10 am (through June 24 and July 8-Aug 12). On Wednesdays (except July 3), 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, starting June 18. The programs 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)
May 30 — Class Act Band
June 13 — Hoods Creek
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)
June 3 — Band of Oz
June 17 — Chocolate Chip & Company
June 24 — Too Much Sylvia
and SE 46th Street, from 10-11 am. The program is free, but registration is required.
JUNE 5
(and Thursdays through June)
Kids Events in Mulberry Park
123 Mulberry St., Shallotte Events start at 10 am, and June 5 is time with the police and fire depart-
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)
May 23 — The Entertainers
May 30 — Christine Martinez Band
June 6 — Jim Quick & Coastline
June 13 — Wicked Fire - Santana Tribute
June 20 — Too Much Sylvia
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
Leland Cultural Arts Center 1212 Magnolia Village Way (6-8 pm, $15)
June 5 — Phantom Playboys
June 21 — Brunswick Band, 7-9 pm — a free evening of swing and big band music
Moonlight Movies (7:30 pm)
Ocean Isle Beach, Town Center Park, 11 E. Second St.
May 28 — “Alexander & The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day”
June 4 — “Despicable Me 3”
June 11 — “Hotel Transylvania: Transformania”
June 18 — “A Dog’s Way Home”
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”
Peggy Hughes Summer Concert Series
Town Center Park, 11 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach
June 6 — Christine Martinez Band
June 13 — the Entertainers
June 20 — The Tonez
June 27 — Blackwater Band
June 3 (Monday) — The Extraordinaires
July 11 — The Catalinas
CALENDAR
July 18 — Chocolate Chip & Company
July 25 — Too Much Sylvia Sound Waves
Concerts at Sunset Beach Town Park
206 Sunset Blvd. North (6-8 pm)
May 28 — North Tower Band
June 4 — Rivermist
June 25 — The Switch
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
Sunset Beach Pier
101 W. Main St. (6-8 pm)
May 30 — The Mac Daddys
June 5 — Backline
June 12 — Trublmkrz
June 19 — John Toppings - Desperado
June 16 — Sun & Sea Band
June 18 — Chocolate Chip & Company
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
Southport Summer Concerts
Franklin Square Park
May 29--Back Porch Rockers
June 5 --CMB
June 12 -- Rev and the Flying Flamingos
June 19 -- Double Cherry Pie a la Mode
June 26 -- Sandy Branch Band
July 10 --River Sound
July 17 -- Rock the Dock
July 24 -- The Doorsmen
July 31 -- Deep Creek Soul
Holden Beach Summer Concert Series
Bridgeview Park (6:30-8 pm)
May 25 — The embers Feat Craig Woolard
June 1 — Too Much Sylvia
June 8 — Carolina Kool
June 15 — Gary Lowder & Smoking Hot
June 29 —The Extraordinaires
July 6 — The Tams
July 13 — Jim Quick and Coastline
July 20 — The Sand Band
July 27 — Continental Divide
Odell WIlliamson Auditorum
Brunswick Community College
150 College Road NW, Bolivia
June 10 — Big Daddy Weave - Let It Begin Tour
Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College
701 N. Third St., Wilmington
June 1 — City Ballet presents “The Sleeping Beauty”
June 4 — Ledisi with special guest Marsha Ambrosious
June 15 — Wynonna Judd
June 21-25 — Leanne Morgan
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
Visit https://wilsoncentertickets.com for more information.
Thalian Hall
310 Chestnut St., Wilmington
May 22-June 1: Big Dawg Productions presents What the Constitution Means to Me
June 19 - July 6 — the Opera House Theatre Company presents “Hairspray”
June 27-29 — The Performance Club Theatre Company performs “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”
Check https://www.thalianhall.org/
calendar for more information.
Greenfield lake Amphitheater
1941 Amphitheater Drive, Wilmington
June 6 — Charles Wesley Godwin
June 18 — Ziggy Alberts
June 20 — Collie Buddz
June 28 — Big Something
July 6 — Steel Pulse
July 12 — Shakey Graves: And the War Came - 10th Anniversary Tour Visit greenfieldlakeamphitear.com for more information.
Live Oak Bank Pavilion
10 Cowan St., Wilmington
June 8 — Dispatch with John Butler
June 11 — The Black Keys
June 13 — Riley Green
June 14 — Slightly Stoopid
June 15 — Glass Animals
June 17 — Goose
June 19 — Dwight Yoakam
June 20 — Rainbow Kitten Surprise
June 27 — Parker McCollum
July 6 — Gary Clark Jr.
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.
Mulberry Market — Shallotte Shop for arts, crafts, and more at Shallotte’s Market, 9 am to 1 pm at Mulberry Park, 123 Mulberry Street. Dates are June 7 and 21.
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
CALENDAR
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.
Barnfield Market at Barn & Beach Designs
4880 Old Long Beach Road
This eclectic market is open June 14, 9 am to 3 pm, and there will be music and food on site too!
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 American Masters covered on June 4 and The Body In Art: Humanness, Abstraction and Identity on June 18..
First Friday Gallery Walk — Southport
The First Friday Gallery Walk is 5-7 pm in Southport at participating galleries, such as Lantana’s, The Rickey Evans Gallery, the Franklin Square Art Gallery, Artisans on Howe and the Intracoastal Realty Downtown Southport Office. Stroll along and browse in the shops to see what local artists have to offer.
Bingo at the Elks Lodge — Oak Island
Bingo games are on the second and fourth Tuesdays at the Lodge, 106 E. Dolphin Drive, Oak Island. Games are open to the public; no one under 16 and no outside food or drinks allowed. Doors open to the public at 5:45 pm with games starting at 6:30 pm. Snacks and drinks available for purchase (cash or checks only). Progressive Jackpot and winner take all coverall.
Battleship North Carolina — near Leland
Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year, 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. Guided tours are now available, at 10 am on Fridays and Saturdays; the cost is $5.
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.
Wilmington River Tours
212 S. Water St., Wilmington Tour the beautiful Cape Fear River and learn more about the area’s history and ecology. Sunset cruises include acoustic music Thursdays through Sundays! Tours are offered daily, to the north along historic downtown Wilmington, the USS North Carolina Battleship and Eagles Island on the even hours, and to the south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and past the shipyard on the odd hours; visit https://wilmingtonwatertours.net/ for schedules and to purchase tickets.
Art League of Leland (ALL) at the Leland Cultural Arts Center
The group welcomes artists of all kinds and meets monthly (except in summer months) 4-6 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.
