North Brunswick Magazine - Spring 2017 Edition

Spring 2017

Pickleball, anyone The good life at Brick + Mortar Mallory Link Connector: A New Link for Leland

C o mp l i m e n t a r y

Meet Board of Education Vice Chairman John Thompson

Life resumed Intense pain limited Sally’s ability to enjoy life to the fullest. After a double knee replacement at NHRMC’s award-winning orthopedic hospital, she’s now twice as active, and infinitely grateful.

Visit nhrmc.org/orthopedics or call 910.668.8110 to learn about joint replacement surgery options.

We see you as more than a patient We believe in putting people first. We always see you as more than your condition.

We see you. And you’re the reason we’re committed to making healthcare remarkable.

NovantHealth.org/shareyourstory 4

North Brunswick Magazine

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Spring 2017

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B R U N S W I C K CO UNTY JUST KEEPS GETTING STR ON G E R.

NEW SHALLOTTE OFFICE NOW OPEN EmergeOrtho, formerly OrthoWilmington, is combining our Supply and Sunset Beach offices into a single, convenient location: 5160 Ocean Highway (Hwy 17) in Shallotte.

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Table of contents

d Features

Features

Spring 2017 d Volume 11, Issue 3

39

The Value of a Teacher

51

Slow Down and Savor

Brunswick County Board of Education Vice Chairman John Thompson believes that strengthening schools begins with more support for teachers.

By Allison Barrett Carter

Two North Brunswick High School graduates share their secrets to coffee, hand-crafted goods and appreciating the finer things in life at their Wilmington store Brick + Mortar.

By Fanny Slater

116 A New Link for Leland

The Mallory Creek Connector will provide easier and safer transportation through town.

By Allison Barrett Carter

122 Pickleball for One and All The paddle sport is a smash hit in Brunswick County.

By Dean Blaine

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North Brunswick Magazine

PHOTO BY Michael Cline

122

PHOTO BY Mark Steelman

39

Giving Flight to Imagination www.uncw.edu UNCW is an EEO/AA institution. Questions regarding UNCW’s Title IX compliance should be directed to TitleIXcoordinator@uncw.edu.

Table of contents

In Every Issue

139 What’s happened

16 Publisher’s note

144 Capture the moment

By Justin Williams

What’s been going on around town

A contest for NBM readers.

Photo by Tina Vucci

18 NBM contributors

Meet the contributors to North Brunswick Magazine

21 What’s happening

Upcoming events you won’t want to miss

27 Business buzz

145 Ad index

Our directory of advertisers

Departments 33 Southbound

What you’ll find in the Winter 201617 edition of our sister publication, South Brunswick Magazine.

Keeping up with the local business scene

133 Faces & places

Look who’s been out and about around town.

35 Spirits

Moscow Mule

By Sandi Grigg

58

PHOTO BY Michael Cline

44

PHOTO BY Kristin Goode

PHOTO BY James Stefiuk

36

d In every issue d Departments

36 What’s cookin’

Coconut Crème Poke Cake

By Sandi Grigg

44 Nonprofit

Positive changes are coming as Bonnie Jordan steps into the executive director role for Communities in Schools of Brunswick County.

By Allison Barrett Carter

58 Community

Leland Citizen of the Year Walt Chmielenski helps the town have more fun.

By Teresa McLamb

128 Snippets

Happenings on the local scene

63 Special Section – 2017 Real Estate Guide Northern Brunswick County is blessed with outstanding communities and home builders; learn more about them here.

Real Estate Snapshot: Q&A with home-building and Realtors association presidents Builders: Horizon Homes, Legacy Homes by Bill Clark and Logan Homes

Communities: Brunswick Forest, Compass Pointe, Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation and Waterford of the Carolinas

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North Brunswick Magazine

63

Contributed Photo

Showcases: Ten couples share their stories about relocating to North Brunswick County.

Spring 2017

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NORTH BRUNSWICK

NBM

M A G A Z I N E North Brunswick Magazine – Spring 2017 Volume 11, Issue 3 CEO/Publisher: Justin Williams Chief Administrative Officer: Sandi Grigg Editor: Molly Harrison Art Director: Andy Garno Web Editor: Allison Barrett Carter

Account Executives: Lee Ann Bolton Wendy Hunt Joe Cipalla George Jacob

Contributing Photographers: Michael Cline Matt McGraw Megan Deitz Lindsay A. Miller Crystal Glass Mark Steelman Kristin Goode James Stefiuk Wendy Hunt Christian Viera

Contributing Writers: Dean Blaine Michelle Macken Jenny Bowman Teresa McLamb Allison Barrett Carter Denice Patterson Debbie Elliott Wendy Redwine Sandi Grigg Fanny Slater Molly Harrison Melissa Slaven Warren PUBLISHED BY: CAROLINA MARKETING COMPANY, INC. PO Box 1361, Leland, NC 28451 (910) 207-0156 • info@NorthBrunswickMagazine.com Reproduction or use of the contents in this magazine is prohibited.

© 2017 Carolina Marketing Company, Inc. Carolina Marketing Company, Inc. strives to bring correct, accurate information that is published in the magazine. However, Carolina Marketing Company, Inc. cannot be held responsible for any consequences resulting from errors or absences. Carolina Marketing Company, Inc. also cannot be held responsible for the services provided by any and all advertisers in our publications. All material in this magazine is property of Carolina Marketing Company, Inc. and may not be reproduced without authorization from the publisher. North Brunswick Magazine – A Carolina Marketing Company, Inc. publication is published four times per year and is distributed to residents and businesses in North Brunswick County, NC, to subscribers and to select areas of New Hanover County, NC.

About the cover: The paddle sport known as pickleball has slowly been taking hold of Brunswick County residents for the last few years, so much so that the courts at area neighborhoods are regularly booked all year round. Writer Dean Blaine explores this sporting phenomenon in a story starting on page 122. Photographer Michael Cline captured the photos for the story, including our cover shot.

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North Brunswick Magazine

The care you need is right here in Leland When it comes to your health, easy access to the care you need is important. That’s why Novant Health Surgical Associates and Novant Health Urology Partners are now open at the Waterford Medical Plaza in Leland.

Your wellness needs are covered at this one convenient location, with primary, women’s, urologic and surgical care now available. Our board-certified experts have the knowledge and experience to customize your care at every stage of life.

We’re accepting new patients. Call to schedule an appointment today.

4 clinics now located in Leland Novant Health Surgical Associates (NEW) Additional locations in Bolivia, Southport and Carolina Shores

Novant Health Oceanside Family Medicine Additional locations in Bolivia, Southport and Shallotte

910-721-4000 • nhsurgicalassociates.org

910-408-1130 • nhoceansidefamilymedicine.org

Novant Health Urology Partners (NEW) Additional locations in Bolivia, Southport and Carolina Shores

Novant Health OB/GYN Additional locations in Bolivia, Southport and Carolina Shores

910-721-4150 • nhurologypartnersbrunswick.org

910-721-4050 • novanthealthobgyn.org

509 Olde Waterford Way, Leland © Novant Health, Inc. 2017

Spring 2017

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NORTH BRUNSWICK

FULL SERVICE CATERING ~ Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Bridal Luncheons Holiday Parties Office Trays ~

910.755.6642 www.ArtCateringEvents.com

ArtCatering@atmc.net

open

FOR BREAKFAST & LUNCH DAILY

MON-SAT: 6:30AM-4PM SUN: 6:30AM-2PM LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

4647 MAIN ST. 910.755.6071 www.PurpleOnionCafe.com SHALLOTTE

NBM M A G A Z I N E Reader/Advertising Services Subscriptions Want to subscribe to NBM? Subscriptions are $15.99 per year and include 4 issues of NBM. Subscribe safely online using PayPal, credit or debit card at NorthBrunswickMagazine.com/subscribe.

Call our office at (910) 207-0156 or email us at subscribe@NorthBrunswickMagazine.com to request a subscription.

Back Issues When available, back issues of NBM can be purchased for $5. Call or email us for information.

Letters We welcome your letters and comments about NBM. Send your letters to PO Box 1361, Leland, NC 28451 or email them to info@NorthBrunswickMagazine.com. When sending your letters, keep in mind they may or may not be published in a future issue of NBM. The publisher reserves the right to make the final decision.

Writing Opportunities

Celebrating 14 years in the business

We are always willing to consider freelance writers and article ideas. Please send suggestions or inquiries to North Brunswick Magazine, Attn: Editor, PO Box 1361, Leland, NC 28451. Or email us at edit@NorthBrunswickMagazine.com.

Change of Address If you move, please submit your new and old address to North Brunswick Magazine at info@NorthBrunswickMagazine.com.

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North Brunswick Magazine

Interested in advertising in NBM? Please contact us to set up a meeting with an Account Executive. Our main office number is (910) 207-0156, or you can email us at advertise@NorthBrunswickMagazine.com.

Marketing Services Carolina Marketing Company, Inc. provides a wide range of marketing services. This includes advertising design services, custom publications, mailing services and more. Contact our office for additional information or to set up a meeting with a Marketing Consultant.

NorthBrunswickMagazine.com Visit us online at the above website. With any additional questions, call us at (910) 207-0156.

complete care

for all the stages of a woman’s life As a patient of NHRMC Physician Group – Glen Meade Center for Women’s Health, you can take comfort in the expertise of a practice that’s been on the forefront of women’s health care since the 1920’s. We offer you the advanced experience of board-certified physicians and additional high-level providers in the following specialties: Obstetrics • Gynecology • Urogynecology • Robotic Surgery • Incontinence

And with NHRMC MyChart, your personal medical record, you will also benefit from seamless connectivity with more than 200 providers and your top-ranked hospital, New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

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1333 S. Dickinson Drive, Suite 110 (The Villages at Brunswick Forest) Spring 2017 15

Publisher’s note

Watching Leland

A sign of progress. Publisher Justin Williams and his daughter, Ava, at the construction site for the Mallory Creek Connector.

PHOTO BY Matt McGraw

Spring is here. After a winter full of spring-like weather in southeastern N.C., the official arrival of spring didn’t pack the celebratory punch that it usually does, but, hey, I am not complaining about the abundance of awesome weather.

Speaking of abundance, Brunswick County is still riding a wave of enormous growth and expansion. The real estate and home-building markets are thriving, making Brunswick County a standout not only in the region and in North Carolina, but also in the nation. According to U.S. Census data released in March of this year, Brunswick County grew 3.23 percent in 2015, adding 3,846 residents and bringing the total county population to 122,255. This made Brunswick the second-fastest growing county in the state during 2015 and the 53rd fastest-growing county in the country. Read about the strength of the real estate market in our special New Homes & Real Estate section starting on page 63.

With residential growth brings more opportunities for commercial development. In the last few months several projects have broken ground and/or opened their doors, including Brunswick Senior Resources, Inc.’s new Leland Center, which opened in February; read about it on page 128.

Brunswick Forest recently broke ground on a new retail center and announced two new tenants — AM Deli and Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar. Additionally, land has been cleared and buildings have started to take shape for new 16

North Brunswick Magazine

developments near and in front of Walmart, Waterford, Magnolia Greens and Harrington Square on Village Road.

All of these projects will positively affect our economy by bringing jobs and services. Local leaders, however, are charged with making sure the growth is handled in a way that is manageable. Which brings us to roads. The Mallory Creek Connector, a new link between Mallory Creek and Brunswick Forest, should be completed in June. This will affect our area not only for convenience, but also for emergency services.

Read more about this project starting on page 116.

We have much more in store for you in this edition. You’ll meet the new director of Communities in Schools, a new member of the Brunswick County School Board and Leland’s Citizen of the Year. You’ll also meet two North Brunswick High School graduates who opened Brick + Mortar, a hip shop in downtown Wilmington. And you can head out to the pickleball court with writer Dean Blaine to learn about why Brunswick County is so crazy about this sport with the kooky name.

I hope you enjoy this edition (and the spring)!

Justin Williams CEO/Publisher Publisher@NorthBrunswickMagazine.com

It’sinyournature tochoosethebest.

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Spring 2017

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Contributors

Mike Spencer

Contributing Photographer

I am a freelance photojournalist with more than 15 years of experience in the field of photojournalism, documenting the people and places of North Carolina for several prominent newspapers. I attended Randolph Community College in Asheboro, North Carolina, where I earned an associate’s degree in photographic technology with an emphasis on photojournalism. As someone who is an ardent animalrights supporter, I have a passion for photographing pets and capturing moments that will reveal their personalities and characters. I donate my time and skills to help raise funds for several animal-related organizations, including Canines For Service and the Wilmington Fur Ball, in addition to producing the monthly PawPrints Magazine cover photo. My work can be viewed at michaelclinephoto.com.

Allison Barrett Carter

Contributing Writer/Web Editor

I am a freelance writer who recently relocated to Leland after a decade in Chapel Hill. I love watching my young sons play on the beach as much as possible and paddling the creek behind our house in our kayak. My writing has appeared in many places online, such as New York Times’ Motherlode, Washington Post’s On Parenting, Redbook, Role Reboot and The Good Men Project, as well as in several print anthologies, such as Chicken Soup for the Soul.

Lindsey A. Miller

Photographer

I recently relocated to Wilmington after living in Atlanta for five years. Coastal living is quite different from city living, but luckily I’m no stranger to the ocean. I grew up in Charleston and started my photography business in the Lowcountry, specializing in weddings and portraits. I’ve since been broadening my scope by working with various regional editorial publications, and I love the opportunities that have come along with it. I’ve had the chance to meet other local business owners, chefs, farmers and creatives while working on these assignments, and it has been a great way to learn more about this area and connect with some truly inspiring people. When I’m not looking at the world from behind a camera, I’m taking advantage of coastal living on the boat or at the beach.

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North Brunswick Magazine

We Can Also Service & Repair Any Appliance.

All Brands: Washers, Dryers, Freezers, Refrigerators, Ice Makers, Dishwashers, Ranges, Ovens, Cook tops, Microwaves, Disposals, Trash Compactors

Spring 2017

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Š2016 Carolinas Oral and Facial Surgery Center

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North Brunswick Magazine

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What’s happening

Listen Up Brunswick County Concert

March 24 The Kennedys will perform at the Listen Up Brunswick County Concert at Odell Williamson Auditorium in Bolivia at 7:30 pm. A husband and wife acoustic folk pop duo, The Kennedys features Pete on guitar, electric sitar, bass and ukulele, and Maura on guitar and ukulele. Tickets cost $20.

Information: (860) 485-3354; listenupbrunswickcounty.com

Comedy Night Fundraiser

March 24 Featuring a night of clean laughs with Mike Santo, North Brunswick Kiwanis Comedy Night Fundraiser will be held at Brunswick Forest’s Wellness & Fitness Center (Leland Room). Proceeds benefit children’s needs in the Leland area.

Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets are $16, and the event starts at 7:45 pm.

Information: northbrunswickkiwanis.org

Coastal Living Show

March 25 Wilmington Woman’s Club presents the annual Coastal Living Show at the Convention Center in downtown Wilmington. The event features more than 70 vendors showcasing a variety of gifts, products and services for the home, garden, office and seaside living. Proceeds go to local nonprofits to improve the lives of women and children.

Admission is free and the event will run from 10 am to 5 pm.

Information: (910) 367-3295; wilmingtonwomansclub.com

Wilmington Dance Festival

March 31 & April 1 Produced by The Dance Cooperative and celebrating the work of local choreographers across many genres, Wilmington Dance Festival also features guest artists and touring companies. It will be held at Kenan Auditorium on the campus of UNCW. Admission cost is $15 to $25.

Information: (910) 962-3500; thedancecooperative.org

The Market and Community Wide Tag Sale

April 1 The first Saturday of each month Home Design Outlet hosts Leland’s newest Market and Community Wide Tag Sale.

They invite all vendors to reserve a space to sell their goods at the market or tag sale. Indoor booths will accommodate a selection of clothing, antiques, painted furniture, collectibles, home decor and more. Home Design Outlet of Leland recently celebrated its first anniversary in Leland. It is a 10,000-square-foot retail shop offering a large collection of flooring, carpeting and area rugs, interior design, Farmhouse Paint and paint workshops. They strongly support shopping local and are thrilled to roll out this newest community event.

Information: (910) 399-1423; homedesignleland.com

North Carolina Azalea Festival

April 5 to 9 Founded in 1948, North Carolina Azalea Festival in Wilmington features more than 50 events celebrating local arts and culture, including a parade, concerts and art shows, a two-day street fair, home and garden tours, special exhibits and more.

The Azalea Festival Street Fair will be held April 7 to 9. It is a family-friendly event with more than 300 arts and craft vendors, more than 40 food vendors, two music stages, fireworks and a children’s area. The Street Fair is on Water, Front and Market streets. The fair will take place on Friday from 5 to 10 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm and Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm.

The Azalea Festival Parade will take place on April 8 at 9 am in downtown Wilmington. It will feature floats, marching bands, clowns and horses, plus visiting celebrities, Queen Azalea and her court, the Azalea Festival Princess, and the concurrent MGC Azalea Festival Parade Mile. Bleacher tickets are available for purchase. A fireworks display over the Cape Fear River also will take place on April 8, starting at 9 pm.

Azalea Festival Concerts include Cole Swindell with Michael Ray and CJ Solar on April 6 ($38.50); Duran Duran on April 7 ($68.50); and Jason Derulo with Morris Day and The Time ($62.50) on April 8. Concerts are held outdoors at The Miller Lite Main Stage in downtown Wilmington at 7 pm.

The Azalea Festival Historic Home Tour in downtown Wilmington will be held on April 8 and 9. It features unique homes and churches spanning 250 years of architectural history. Tours are self-guided, and tickets are good for the entire weekend. Proceeds benefit the Historic Wilmington Foundation. Hours are Saturday 1 to 6 pm; Sunday 1 to 5 pm.

Tickets cost $30 each. For information call (910) 762-2511.

The MGC Azalea Festival Parade Mile will be held on April 8, beginning at City Hall in downtown Wilmington at 8:45 am. It features a 1-mile run along the Azalea Festival Parade route. While competition runs fast for elite and competitive runners, many men run in seersucker suits and women in Azalea Bell dresses. Proceeds benefit Team First Book in New Hanover County, a network of educators and program leaders exclusively serving children in need.

Registration begins at 7:30 am and this race costs $15 to $21; you must register online.

Information: (910) 794-4650; ncazaleafestival.org.

Bunny Dayz Easter Egg Hunt

April 8 Taking place at Mulberry Park in Shallotte, this egg hunt offers cupcakes, cookies, muffins, candy and holiday fun.

Spring 2017

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What’s happening

Meet the Easter Bunny and see a magic show, then search the grounds during the egg hunt at 11 am. The event is free and runs from 10 am to 12 pm.

Information: (910) 253-2670; ncbrunswick.com/event/1245

James Keelaghan in Concert

April 9 James Keelaghan will perform at Listen Up Brunswick County, a concert series presenting original music in a variety of genres including folk, R & B, bluegrass, country and blues. This event will take place at the Virginia Williamson Center at 150 College Road NE in Bolivia.

Tickets cost $20.

Information: (860) 485-3354; listenupbrunswickcounty.com

Night Hunt

April 13 Night Hunt at Leland Municipal Park features an evening for adults. The event includes a flashlight egg hunt and live music with 120 Minutes (a 90s tribute band) plus food and beverages available for purchase and prizes. This event costs $5 per person and runs from 7 to 9 pm.

Information: (910) 332-4814

Seaglass Salvage Market

April 14 & 15 Seaglass Salvage Market is an indoor/outdoor market featuring furniture, home decor, jewelry, candles, pepper jelly and relishes, handmade chocolates, baby clothes, original art, industrial lighting, vintage pieces, salvage items, apothecary/holistic items, stones and gems, and unique items. Food trucks and free coffee are on site both days. This event is free to attend. The location is 1987 Andrew Jackson Highway in Leland.

Information: (843) 655-8968; seaglasssalvagemarket.com

Egg Hunt at North Brunswick High School

April 15 The Egg Hunt on the football field at North Brunswick High School in Leland features hunts for children divided into six age groups. There will be prizes and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Times per age group are as follows: 10 am for 0-12 months; 10:05 am for 13-23 months; 10:10 am for 2-3 years; 10:15 am for 4-5 years; 10:20 am for 6-7 years; and 10:25 am for 8-10 years. This event is free for all ages.

Information: (910) 371-2261

Concert on the Coast in Leland

April 27 The Concert on the Coast at Leland Municipal Park features a performance by The Imitations. A food truck will be on site.

Coolers are permitted. This event is free and will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.

Information: (910) 332-4814 22

North Brunswick Magazine

Arts & Crafts Fair at Brunswick Forest

April 29 The Arts & Crafts Fair will take place from 10 am to 4 pm at the Villages at Brunswick Forest in Leland. This free fair will feature local artists and craftspeople plus nonprofit organizations and commercial business vendors.

Information: (910) 399-7198

All About Kidz

April 29 All About Kidz at the Brunswick Riverwalk Park at Belville features a chance for parents to learn about what activities, camps, sports programs and more are available for their children. The event also introduces parents and kids to the amenities at the park, including a nature trail, an observation deck, a playground and picnic shelters.

Information: (910) 383-0553

Hound Hustle

April 30 The sixth annual Hound Hustle 5K, 10K and Trot with Spot is sponsored by Brunswick Forest Veterinary Hospital. Race proceeds go to a local animal charity. The race is produced by 5 Star Race Productions. There will be a pet/owner costume contest, and microchip implants will be provided for pets at a reduced cost.

Information: 5starraceproductions.com

Wine, Women and Chocolate

May 1 The third annual Wine, Women and Chocolate show will take place from 5 to 7:30 pm at Brunswick Senior Resources Center, 3620 Express Drive in Shallotte. Tickets cost $25 for members and $35 for nonmembers. Local vendors will be providing samples, appetizers and door prizes.

Information: brunswickcountychamber.org/women-in-business-committee

Wilmington Jewish Film Festival

May 2 to 4 The fourth annual Wilmington Jewish Film Festival will take place at Thalian Hall in downtown Wilmington. Films will be announced on the website. Tickets cost $17.

Information: wilmingtonjff.org

Concert on the Coast in Leland

May 11 Sonic Spectrum will perform at the Concert on the Coast from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Leland Municipal Park. This concert is free. A food truck will be on site, and coolers are permitted.

Information: (910) 332-4814

Shallotte Farmer’s Market

May 13 Come out to Mulberry Park, 123 Mulberry Street in

What’s happening

Shallotte, to take part in the Farmer’s Market. Admission is free, and the market will run from 9 am to 1 pm.

Information: townofshallotte.org

Showboat: Systems and Designs

May 13 Battleship NORTH CAROLINA in Wilmington presents Showboat: Systems & Design featuring a presentation by Lt. Colonel Ken Rittenmeyer (USAF Retired) followed by two hours of exploring the ship with explanations of shipboard systems like armor, fuel, propulsion and more. The tour is limited to 10 participants ages 18 and older. Tickets cost $35 to $40.

Information: (910) 251-5797 ; battleshipnc.com

Spring Movie Series

May 20 The Spring Movie Series will take place on 8 pm at Leland Municipal Park. Bring a picnic, lawn chair or blanket to watch the feature movie: Finding Dory. This event is free.

Information: (910) 408-3092

Battleship Alive

May 20 Battleship Alive at the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA in Wilmington features a chance to interact with World War II living history re-enactors performing daily duties and common drills. Tickets cost $6 to $14 and this event will take place from 8 am to 5 pm.

Information: (910) 251-5797 ; battleshipnc.com

Concert on the Coast

May 25 Jim Quick & Coastline will perform at the Concert on the Coast from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Leland Municipal Park. A food truck will be on site, and coolers will be permitted at this free concert.

Information: (910) 332-4814

Orange Street ArtsFest

May 27 & 28 The 22nd annual Orange Street ArtsFest is held adjacent to the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center in downtown Wilmington. The event is the largest arts festival in the Port City and features more than 80 artists and $550 in prize money. The event also includes live entertainment and a variety of food, plus hourly music, dance and theater performances. Hours are Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

Information: wilmingtoncommunityarts.org

Dr. Roc McCarthy is Welcoming New Patients at Atlantic Urology - NHRMC Physician Group Board certified in urology, Dr. McCarthy is welcoming new patients at the Brunswick Forest office. As a patient of NHRMC Physician Group, you will enjoy seamless connectivity to more than 200 specialists and NHRMC, the region’s top-ranked hospital, through one secure, shared electronic medical record. You can also use NHRMC MyChart to request appointments, email your doctor, view test results and more.

Call for an appointment 910.254.1033

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North Brunswick Magazine

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Online Exclusives

d Extras you will only find online

Online Exclusives

What’s online at northbrunswickmagazine.com d Spring 2017

Deputy Arnold Floyd

1st Breath Helps Grieving Parents

Gateway Landing

The School Resource Officer at Leland Middle School is an exceptional mentor to the students he tends.

Founded by Pat Flynn, Leland nonprofit 1st Breath helps parents grieve the loss of a stillborn child.

Visiting a 12-month faith-based rehabilitation program for men battling addiction.

Go to: northbrunswickmagazine.com/ meet-deputy-arnold-floyd-at-lelandmiddle-school/

Go to: northbrunswickmagazine.com/ 1st-breath-helps-grieving-parents/

Go to: northbrunswickmagazine.com/ gateway-landing-a-passion-for-saving/

The First Robotics Team in Brunswick County

Romance at School: Jill & Settle Dawkins

High school students from around the county meet at Brunswick County Academy every night of the week to collectively build their own robot.

These high school sweethearts, both third-grade teachers at Lincoln Elementary School, share a home, two kids and a career — and they rarely argue.

Go to: northbrunswickmagazine.com/ the-first-first-robotics-team-inbrunswick-county/

Where to Dine Outside in Leland Warmer days are coming, and luckily for us, Leland boasts plenty of outdoor dining areas.

Go to: northbrunswickmagazine.com/ where-to-dine-outside-in-leland/

Go to: northbrunswickmagazine.com/ romance-at-school-jill-settle-dawkins/

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Golf Played Smarter* *GPS-equipped carts, now at Cape Fear National

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An award-winning course, Brunswick Forest’s Cape Fear National is now giving golfers an even better experience with a new fleet of GPS carts.

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North Brunswick Magazine

Cape Fear National At Brunswick Forest

Business buzz

Coastal Career Fair Brunswick Community College (BCC) students and alumni and community members attended the annual BCC Coastal Career Fair on March 8. This event offered numerous employers and agencies the chance to promote their summer jobs, internships and career opportunities in a variety of fields, including: business, nursing, biotechnology, aquaculture technology, computer programming/IT, infant and toddler care, turfgrass/horticulture management, electronic engineering, cosmetology, accounting, geomatics, medical assisting, CNA, welding, esthetics culinary arts, health information, EMT, real estate, fitness Science and much more.

Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association 2017 MAX! Awards Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association hosted its 2017 MAX! Awards Gala on February 16 at the Terrance’s on Sir Tyler.

The MAX! Awards are presented by the Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association and the Cape Fear New Home Sales & Marketing Council. The competition honors the outstanding marketing performance of the association’s members and industry professionals throughout the region. The MAX! Awards recognize the best in media, marketing and advertising tools.

H2GO Releases Architectural Rendering of Proposed Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant Building Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a form of water treatment in which water is pumped under high pressure through membranes to remove impurities from the water. The water purified through reverse osmosis is exceedingly high-quality water. A planned RO project for Brunswick County will require H2GO to secure a revenue bond issue of $20 million or less. The reverse osmosis water treatment facility will be constructed to produce up to 4.0 million gallons per day (MGD) of finished water. The selected project site is located in the Waterford Business Park on a 34-acre parcel zoned for industrial use. The building will be an attractive addition to the industrial park. The tan walls and green roof will be compatible with site aesthetics, and the office facade will have coastal design features. The interior space will include a training room that can be used for operator seminars, educational learning, and tours for local school groups. Design is about 80% complete, and permitting has begun. Off-site well construction could begin in late spring or early summer of 2017. The RO plant construction and water transmission lines could begin in the fall of 2017.

The RO plant would begin producing water the first quarter of 2019. Water rates will remain at or below current levels for the foreseeable future.

Currently, there are 12 operating Reverse Osmosis (RO) water treatment facilities in North Carolina, including a few other RO water treatment facilities in various stages of planning, design, and/or construction. The existing North Carolina RO water treatment plants are innocuous facilities, many located in the heart of residential and business centers of the communities. Four of the five Dare County water treatment facilities are RO water treatment facilities: Kill Devil Hills (the largest in North Carolina, has been operating since 1989), Stumpy Point, Rodanthe and Frisco. There is also an RO plant located in Brunswick County on Bald Head Island.

2017 Housing Forecast Wilmington- Cape Fear Home Builders Association (WCFHBA), in partnership with the Cape Fear Realtors, hosted the 2017 Housing Forecast, Insights and Challenges with special guest speaker Jay Colvin, regional director of Metrostudy, on February 23 at the Terraces at Sir Tyler Drive.

Metrostudy, a Hanley Wood company, maintains one of the nation’s most comprehensive databases of housing market information.

Every quarter, through their local field research teams, they bring together the most accurate market data on active and future construction in the industry. The 2017 Housing Forecast highlighted a national forecast, but also provided insights into how the Wilmington real estate market compares nationally in respect to job growth, unemployment, wages, interest rates and impact on housing affordability. The forecast looks at mortgage data with a focus on lender by volume and provides comparisons on the current lending methods used traditionally and non-traditionally.

Weingarten Realty Breaks Ground Weingarten Realty has broken ground on two 9,375-square-foot multi-tenant retail buildings on Olde Regent Way in Waterford Village. Weingarten plans on completing the buildings in the spring. No tenants have been announced as of this date.

ALDI Plans to Open This Year ALDI is still planning to open its new grocery store on the corner of Ploof Road and Highway 17 sometime in 2017. Town staff continues to work closely with the developer of the 63-acre property between Ploof and Ocean Gate Plaza. The developer has been negotiating with some other national retailers and restaurants and is expected to make an announcement sometime in early 2017 regarding their development plans.

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Mark A. Ellenberg, LUTCF, Agency Manager Kathryn Norman, Agent Ryan Huffman, Agent Breck Sampson, Agent Jared Speight, Agent

(910) 371-2111 | www.ncfbins.com

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North Brunswick Magazine

Business buzz

Novant Health Team Members Pledge More Than $1 Million to Local Communities In October 2016 more than 7,000 Novant Health team members pledged $1.13 million to their local communities through the Novant Health team member giving campaign, Giving. Serving. Together.

The campaign provides an opportunity for Novant Health team members across all Novant Health markets covering a four-state area to join together to make a difference where they work and live.

“As a nonprofit organization, we rely on the support of our communities in order to advance health care to the next level,” said Kim Henderson, senior vice president of Novant Health foundation and social responsibility. “But how could we ask others to support our mission if we don’t do it ourselves? This team member giving campaign demonstrates to our communities that our mission and our organization matter, and that our team members are invested in the work we do.” Team members pledged money to their local Novant Health foundation and local community agencies to impact the lives of those who live in their communities, as well as improve the overall health of their communities. Team member pledges support: employee assistance funds; services at free clinics; new technology and updated equipment; patient programming; new facilities to better serve patients; assistance for people in need of shelter, food, clothing and personal care; and research funding.

healthcare product while reducing cost throughout the entire delivery system.

Jeff James, Wilmington Health’s CEO, said healthcare providers have been asking him how they have been able to keep costs down. Currently Wilmington Health is helping to manage the healthcare transformation of approximately 800 physicians and advanced practice providers. MSSP is designed to enhance Medicare patients’ experiences and increase the quality of their care. To do that, MSSP will hold organizations accountable for the care they provide, ensure patients’ care is coordinated across all services and encourage organizations to invest in process improvement to benefit the patients. The MSSP will reward those organizations that are able to reduce their healthcare costs while providing quality care to patients. Kelly Schaudt, senior director of lean operations for Wilmington Health and COO for Physicians Healthcare Collaborative, said many providers know they need to be better advocates for the patients’ quality as well as cost of services.

Photography: Contributed

Express Homes Neighborhood Ribbon Cutting A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on March 14 for the new Seabooke – Express Homes neighborhood. Seabrooke is at 816 Avingon Lane NE in Leland and is a DR Horton neighborhood.

Wilmington Health Becoming Hub for Cost and Quality Leadership

Greenlands Farm Store Opening

Wilmington Health has taken on the role of consultant and has successfully prepared and garnered acceptance for Shannon Clinic, San Angelo, Texas, and Onslow Memorial Hospital, Jacksonville, N.C., to participate in the federal government Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP).

These are the second and third organizations to reach out to Wilmington Health for assistance in guiding them through the detailed and strenuous application process. The objective of this government program is to provide a higher quality

Greenlands Farm store re-opened for the year on February 3.

They offer a bakery, gourmet farm, food to go, local farm meat (non-GMO, humane, no antibiotics), creamery, gifts, fine wines, craft beers, organic teas, hot coffee and hot tea. Greenlands Farm is home to the Burkert and Kelley families, who practice the fullcircle system known as homestead farming. Henry and Heather Burkert began growing and feeding the community around 2010.

Their daughter, Maud Kelley, and her family joined them in 2011 to help with and live on the farm. The family’s aim is to educate and feed the community through sustainable farming and living practices and the farm’s nonprofit educational animal sanctuary Helpers of Our Farm.

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Business buzz

H2GO Buys Local Several studies have shown that buying local strengthens the economic base of the community. In an effort to support the community they serve, H2GO has initiated many new projects to benefit their Brunswick community. One such project, Operation Round Up, gives H2GO customers the opportunity to round up their bill to the next dollar and contribute that to a local charity.

H2GO has also decided to buy toys with the prize money they received from the Unity Group of North Brunswick for their first place float in the Christmas parade and donate them to children in local hospitals. Recently, H2GO has brought much of their business to the North Brunswick area, using The Logo Shoppe for apparel and embroidery, ASG Specialties for stickers and promotional items, local restaurants for catering purposes, hosting their annual Christmas Party at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, using Leland Machine Shop to assist with the construction of their first place Christmas float, shopping at Ace Hardware for many of their hardware needs, using Skip’s Tire Service and Tommy’s Auto Repair to work on their vehicles and even setting up deals with Gateway Fitness for their employees.

H2GO Lends Helping Hand to Navassa and Habitat for Humanity

the distance between the nearest manhole and where the camera showed the lateral connection underground. After they located the lateral connection and calculated the distance, they begin to search for the end of the connection with probes and began to dig to expose the connection. In a team effort between H2GO’s team and Navassa’s Willie Byrd, they were able to expose the connection and allow crews to continue construction and connect the sewer.

Photography: Contributed

Plantation Building Corp. Hires Real Estate Sales Veteran Kevin Hine Wilmington’s award-winning custom homebuilder Plantation Building Corp. is pleased to welcome real estate sales veteran Kevin Hine to its talented team of building professionals. Kevin will join the company’s sales team, bringing a seasoned real estate portfolio of land development and new home construction experience to the growing company’s client list. Kevin graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill and began his real estate career with accounting firm Arthur Andersen & Co., where he advised a diverse group of real estate clients and high-profile golf community developers. He later joined the Executive Team at Chapel Hill’s exclusive golf community Governors Club. Nine years later the Murphy family recruited Kevin to help launch the family’s residential land development business, including River Landing in nearby Duplin County. During his tenure, Kevin sold an impressive 1,000 properties representing over $300 million. Most recently Kevin served as VP of sales & marketing at well-respected semi-custom homebuilder Hagood Homes.

There, Kevin developed an in-house sales structure that helped to quadruple home sales in a five-year period. He will bring his knowledge of the industry to Plantation’s design-build table.

Leland Rotary Makes $10,000 Donation to BSRI’s New Brunswick Center on Village Road The Town of Navassa is working with Habitat for Humanity to bring a Habitat Home to Church Street. Habitat Homes bring safe and affordable homes for people in need. However, Navassa hit a snag trying to connect sewer to the lot when they could not find where to tie in the sewer system. Mayor Eulis Willis reached out to H2GO Executive Director Bob Walker for assistance. Walker assured Mayor Willis that H2GO would help them locate their connection. On February 3 H2GO’s Steve Hall and Keith Gore went to the lot on Church Street with their sewer camera. They dropped the sewer camera into the nearest manhole and ran it through the mainline to locate the lateral connection that connects the main sewer to the lot’s sewer. They were able to measure out

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Leland Area Rotary Club awarded Brunswick Senior Resources Inc. $10,000 to be used for construction of a full-service kitchen

Business buzz

for the newly built Brunswick Center senior facility on the corner of Town Hall Drive and Village Road. The 30-member club formally presented the check on February 2. A full kitchen will allow the center’s volunteers to create freshly prepared dinners for the Meals on Wheels program as well as serve breakfast and lunch on site for local seniors.

Photography: Contributed

H2GO’s Commitment to a Safe Work Environment

display for all visitors to see. H2GO looks to continue their string of safety.

Local Veteran Jason Gaver to acquire Mulch & More, Inc. Jason Gaver, a local U.S. Navy veteran, has entered into an agreement to acquire Mulch & More, Incorporated, a family-run business located in Winnabow, NC. Mulch & More is the leading provider of mulch and landscape products for homeowners and commercial landscapers in Brunswick and surrounding counties.

The company was founded 14 years ago by George and Laura Patterson. Mulch & More prides itself on quality products, competitive prices and superior customer service. Pick-up and delivery of a full suite of mulch, pine straw, rock, brick chips, sand and other products is available.

Da Vinci SI Surgical System Now at Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center On February 8 H2GO held a celebration for its nearly 30 employees, thanking them for their commitment to safety. H2GO has now gone 2,000 working days without a safety violation or time loss from injury. In 2012 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Brian Griffith formed a safety committee and began working on a safety policy that provides basic responsibilities and tasks for all levels of employees on ensuring a safe environment.

H2GO held a celebration for its employees to thank them for their commitment and to encourage the continued commitment to safety. The celebration took place at H2GO’s home office on Village Road and was led primarily by Brian Griffith and Executive Director Bob Walker. The employees received lunch from Smithfield’s, custom T-shirts with all of their names on the back, cake and candy. In addition to receiving the goodies, the employees also signed a fire hydrant to show their commitment to safety. The fire hydrant will be placed in the H2GO lobby on

Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center recently added the da Vinci Si Robotic Surgical System to its services. While urologic and gynecologic minimally invasive procedures became available with the installation of the medical center’s first da Vinci robot in 2012, this new da Vinci Si system gives patients a minimally invasive option for general surgery procedures as well. Da Vinci robotic surgery is a less invasive technique and offers several potential benefits, including a shorter hospital stay, less blood loss, fewer complications, less need for narcotic pain medicine, a faster recovery and smaller incisions associated with minimal scarring.

The da Vinci Si Surgical System offers several enhanced features including: dual surgeon-console capability to support training and collaboration during minimally invasive surgery; high-definition 3-D vision; an updated user interface for streamlined setup and operating room turnover; and extensibility for digital operating room integration

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North Brunswick Magazine

Southbound

South Brunswick Magazine What’s going on in our sister publication

the Old Baldy Birthday Party on April 15 and continues through the holiday season. Read about the history of the lighthouse and see the full list of celebratory events from April through November in our winter edition.

By Allison Barrett Carter

Repurposing Shallotte The Southern Charm Co. and Scott’s Farm & Family bring new life to two old properties in the heart of town.

In the old Dykes Tire Shop that was sitting empty for years in downtown Shallotte, Sammy and Lisa Varnam saw untapped potential. Instead of

Happy Birthday, Old Baldy Bald Head Island’s iconic lighthouse reaches 200 years.

The 13th oldest standing lighthouse in the country, the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina and one of the few federal octagonal lighthouses surviving, Old Baldy is an icon of southeastern North Carolina. As the lighthouse reaches 200 years, the Bald Head Island Foundation has planned

granola following from her home base on Oak Island.

By Allison Barrett Carter

A Champion for Bird Island Sunset Vision and the State of North Carolina recently honored Frank Nesmith for his dedication to Bird Island.

Meet the man who has spent a lifetime preserving the island and who helped start the Kindred Spirit Mailbox.

By Melissa Slaven Warren tearing down the building, they bought the property and the old house behind it, and now two new businesses are thriving and a bit of Shallotte’s history has been preserved.

By Denice Patterson

A Hippie Heart

numerous events and plenty of opportunities for the public to take part in the celebrations. The fun starts with

Ilene Evans’ Hippie Chick Granola Co. is a business built on love and a fresh start.

Back in New Jersey, Evans never dreamed she’d be living at a North Carolina beach making a living off her granola recipes. Now she has a loyal

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save TIME and

money

Four Seasons Dry Cleaners and Laundry in Leland provides the highest quality care at the lowest prices‌

Always

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North Brunswick Magazine

$1.17 per shirt on orders of 10+ Conveniently located in Waterford’s commercial plaza at 497 Olde Waterford Way #106

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Spirits

Mad for Mules

Everybody loves the bubbly ginger-lime-vodka drinks in the swanky copper cups.

O Story by Sandi Grigg

One of the first drinks I ever

ordered at an elixir bar was a Moscow mule. At the time I had no idea what was in it, but everyone around me was holding a fancy copper cup and my curiosity confirmed my order. With my first sip flavors of ginger, sweet mint and lime rushed over my tongue.

According to the Genuine Classic Moscow Copper Company, the very first Moscow mules were served in a limited-edition run of copper mugs brought over from Russia in the 1940s.

Moscow mules have been making a comeback in the last few years.

There are many versions to this vodka-based drink. Most include ginger beer, which I personally don’t like. My version creates sweet ginger flavors without the use of a ginger beer, but you could certainly use it if that’s what you prefer, especially if you’re in a hurry. My recipe uses ginger simple syrup, which is easy to make but takes a little time to prepare. I also make my own mint-infused vodka, which is best if you make it several days in advance.

The versatility of this cocktail makes it truly an all-weather beverage. It’s refreshing in the spring with lemons and limes or in the summer with the addition of peach or even in the fall and winter with pumpkin spice or apple cider.

If you try your hand at the effervescent Moscow mule, be sure to pick up a set of the copper cups, which will certainly impress your guests.

Method

Moscow Mule Serves 6

Ingredients 2 bunches fresh mint 1 pint vodka 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 3-inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped 2 cups sparkling water Lime slices Fresh mint sprigs and lime slices Ice

Make the Mint-Infused Vodka Place the mint in a 2-quart pitcher. Pour the pint of vodka over the mint and cover. Let mixture stand for 3 days at room temperature.

Make the Ginger Simple Syrup In a small pot over medium heat, combine the sugar, water and ginger.

Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes while stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Let cool for 20 minutes and strain.

Make the Drink Mix each drink individually. Fill a cocktail shaker with ¼ cup of ice. Add ¼ cup mint-infused vodka, ¼ cup ginger syrup and 2/3 cup sparkling water. Shake and pour into a copper cup with ice.

Squeeze a few lime slices into the drink.

Garnish with fresh mint and a slice of lime. n Spring 2017

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What’s COOKIN’

Let Them Eat Poke Cake

A

Everybody likes cake, and this one has a special surprise.

Story by Sandi Grigg

PHOTOGRAPHY BY James Stefiuk

“A party without cake is just a meeting,” said the late, great Julia Child. I’m of the same mind as Julia, and I would definitely bring this cake to a party or even to a staff meeting because it is good and I like to share — and who doesn’t like cake?

True to its name and a hot food trend of the 1970s, a poke cake is a cake that you poke holes all over after it has been baked. You then fill the holes with sweetened condensed milk, hot fudge sauce, caramel or gelatin. I guess you’re only limited by your imagination as to what you can pour after you poke.

It’s usually not the prettiest thing to look at after this step, but trust me it gets better. You then allow what you poured to soak into the cake before adding a topping. There are a number of variations to a poke cake, but the Coconut Crème 36

North Brunswick Magazine

Poke Cake is my all-time favorite. The cake becomes so moist and is filled with the sweetened flavor of coconut goodness.

The coconut is a fruit from the palm family. For cooking purposes you can use the raw inner pithy layers, as in this recipe, or you can use the juices from inside. Although the juice inside is mainly water, the white meat inside is versatile and can be quite healthful. Coconut can be eaten raw or dried and can be used to make coconut milk, cream or even coconut oil, all of which is packed with iron, vitamin c and fiber. However, in this recipe the sugar, calories and fat outweigh any health benefit from the coconut. For the sake of flavor, let’s just look past the lack of health benefits and eat the cake. Feel free to mix up the ingredients and make it your own. Enjoy!

Coconut Crème Poke Cake Make the cake one day before you plan to serve it.

You will need a 9 x 13 pan.

Serves 8.

Ingredients 1 box white cake mix 1 cup water ¼ cup vegetable oil 3 eggs 14 ounce can crème of coconut (not coconut milk) 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk 8 ounces whipped topping 4 ounces cream cheese 12 ounces frozen coconut (thawed)

Method Prepare the cake mix according to the directions on the box using the water, vegetable oil and eggs. Bake the cake in a 9 x 13 pan.

When you remove the cake from the oven, poke numerous holes in it with the end of a wooden spoon or a large fork.

Mix the sweetened condensed milk with the crème of coconut. Pour the mixture all over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let cool, cover and put in the refrigerator overnight to soak.

Mix the whipped topping with the cream cheese and half of the coconut.

Spread it over the top of the cake, concealing the holes. Sprinkle the other half of coconut all over the top.

(If you prefer, lightly toast the other half of coconut before sprinkling over the top.) n Spring 2017

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New Location Coming May 1st on Hwy 17, Leland

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North Brunswick Magazine

From left: Kindergarten teacher Sara Melancon and exceptional children teacher Laurie Byrum chat with School Board Vice Chairman John Thompson at Lincoln Elementary School.

The Value of a Teacher Brunswick County Board of Education Vice Chairman John Thompson believes that strengthening schools begins with more support for teachers.

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J

STO RY BY

A l l i so n B a r r e tt C a r t e r

P H O T O G RA P H Y B Y

7

Mark Steelman

John Thompson is an architect and one of his favorite projects was a house that had been incredibly mishandled during construction. He loves fixing problems, learning new things and looking at a project from all angles to determine the best path to success.

“They had three contributing issues that were causing a leak,” Thompson remembers. “And until each of those three items were resolved, the leak wouldn’t go away. So it was really one of those challenging projects. That one was one of my most interesting because it created challenges that I had never faced before.”

And it is this problem-solver, this man who relishes facing challenges head on, who is the new vice chairman of the Brunswick County Board of Education.

Thompson isn’t new to the board. In fact, he has spent almost eight years on the board and previously served a seven-year term on the Communities in Schools (CIS) of Brunswick County’s Board of Directors. At the end of last year, he took the oath to serve as the Board of Education’s vice chairman, under new board member and Chairman Ed Lemon.

As vice chairman, Thompson’s stature as a decades-long education problem-solver receives its due.

The problem Thompson seems most intent on solving is the amount of support given to teachers in the school system. Married for 40 years to a former teacher and a current CIS Action for Success Program coach, Thompson 40

North Brunswick Magazine

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has an insider’s perspective. He also has an unshakable belief that strong schools start with strong teachers.

Because of the emphasis on the role of teachers for a successful education program, Thompson wants the board and the entire county to focus more time and resources to making sure teachers are supported.

“One of the things that ought to be evident to everybody but is rarely talked about is how we expect so much from our teachers,” he says. “Then we have a 185-day work year, just a little more than the classroom days that the students have, and within that year they are expected to perform all these miracles, be the creative force in a student’s life, inspiring children to learn. We only provide them three or four days of professional time where they can focus on their craft to improve their teaching skills.”

The solution, in Thompson’s mind, is to provide teachers more paid professional development days. He wants the board to encourage internships, mentorships, conferences and classes for teachers. He explains that teachers come out of their college programs and certifications relatively inexperienced for the task that lies ahead of them. Yet they are the most important part of education. This is a glaring disconnect, he believes.

“Every day you walk into that classroom there is a room full of people who are expecting everything you have to offer,” he says. “A lawyer has his or her day in court, but teachers have their day in court every day. The single most important thing, in my mind, that we could do to resolve a number of issues, is to place emphasis and value on the teaching profession. We need to make sure our teachers can become the best they can be, so that every classroom has the most professional instructor possible, so that every classroom has teachers performing at their highest level. This is almost impossible under the current model.”

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North Brunswick Magazine

Thompson wants to see pilot programs, easily measured, to encourage more professional development along with more paid days for teachers.

Helping teachers navigate a demanding profession is a soft spot for Thompson not only because of his wife, but also because of his unique personal history. When Thompson was in first grade, he was diagnosed with a rare blood disease that left him crippled. As the bone in his hip socket deteriorated, Thompson couldn’t walk and was hospitalized.

Although he only completed nine weeks of the first grade, that time is incredibly memorable to Thompson. He can tell stories with startling accuracy about much of his elementary education. He remembers the name of the school bully, how the librarian paddled him for reaching for books beyond his grade level, and how his

teachers always defended him. He recalls grammar lessons clearly and can detail the moment he learned to tie his shoes while at school. His teachers left an indelible mark on him, and even though he was a child with a failing body living in rural North Carolina, they helped him receive his education.

Thompson, who fully recovered from the disease, became a bookworm while relegated to the hospital bed and believes learning delivered a promising career and a rich life for him despite being on crutches in high school.

He wants children and students throughout Brunswick County to feel the same sense of hope he felt —that they are capable of anything. And that hope, he believes, starts with the special relationship teachers have with their students. By making support for teachers stronger and more focused, he reasons, only good things can come. n

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Nonprofit

Taking the Lead Positive changes are coming as Bonnie Jordan steps into the executive director role for Communities in Schools of Brunswick County.

T Story by Allison Barrett Carter PHOTOGRAPHY BY Kristin Goode

The newly elected executive

director for Communities in Schools of Brunswick County, Bonnie Jordan has a wealth of experience when it comes to supporting families in need. Before moving to Oak Island in 2013, she served the homeless community in southern New Jersey as the director of the Hunger and Homelessness Prevention Program through the Diocese of Trenton. It was during that time that Jordan recognized the true impact homelessness has on a child’s academic success.

“During those years, I dealt a lot with homeless families, and the one thing that always bothered me was the children who were moved from place to place and were not consistently in school,” Jordan says. “I really saw the impact of that on them, both academically and socially. They didn’t have any opportunities for enrichment, to really connect with one community, or to develop a positive peer group, and they were certainly missing a lot of time from school.”

Moving to Brunswick County and coming on board with Communities in Schools (CIS) as the program operations manager allowed Jordan to 44

North Brunswick Magazine

address this problem schools, the program Above: CIS Executive Director Bonnie Jordan directly. Founded in focuses on dropout (also seen on opposite 1995, CIS’s mission is prevention by bringing page) meets with the South to help students stay in in community Brunswick Middle School school by supporting volunteers to provide Friends of Rachel Club. them with academic consistent, positive adult tutoring, social role models who take enrichment and intervention services the time to show a genuine interest in that reach far beyond the classroom. the students. Volunteers also provide “Many families are impoverished, tutoring and small-group interventions. and the children just need a lot of Under Jordan’s new leadership comes support and services to help them be one big change at CIS. At the successful and stay in school,” she says. conclusion of the current school year, When the executive director position CIS’s fee-based before and after school became available, childcare program Jordan says she felt will be terminated. it was the next According to logical step for her.

Jordan, the decision was made “It would give me based upon the an opportunity to changing needs of work with the board of directors and the community.

The program make sure that they originally started really understand when CIS was at what we do every its infancy and options for affordable, day, so that they can make well-informed safe childcare in the community were decisions and provide the needed support slim; however, demand for the program for those we serve,” she says.

At the core of CIS is the Action for has diminished in recent years.

Success Program. Currently operating “We’ve seen the number of schools in all Brunswick County middle where we’ve been able to get a

“Many families are impoverished, and the children just need a lot of support and services to help them be successful and stay in school.”

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SMOOTHIE Fresh baby spinach is blended with frozen bananas, frozen mangos, apple cider, and lemon juice in a refreshing smoothie.

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North Brunswick Magazine

Nonprofit

Above: Success Coach Calie Hodgson (left) and Jordan working on Communities in Schools (CIS) initiatives at South Brunswick Middle School.

significant number of students to enroll has really declined, so the program has continued to shrink for us,” Jordan says.

“At the same time, nationally as well as locally, we’re really focusing more on outcome-based programs like our Action for Success program.”

The decision ultimately was made to follow the lead of the national CIS organization and focus on those

“It would give me an opportunity to work with the board of directors and make sure that they really understand what we do every day, so that they can make well-informed decisions and provide the needed support for those we serve.”

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Nonprofit

services that benefit children in an ongoing and academic manner. “The program that we’re no longer continuing at the end of this school year was really a childcare program,” Jordan explains. “It was not an academic program. We had wonderful staff who did an excellent job, and I think it met the community needs for a long period of time, but I just think right now it’s time for the organization to refocus and move in a different direction.”

Under Jordan’s leadership, the goal for CIS is to develop a strategy to expand the Action for Success program beyond the middle school level.

“Middle school is really that time when you can lose a student’s interest as he or she starts to focus more on peer activities and move away from the guidance of parents,” Jordan says. “It’s a challenging time for parents and for the schools, so we try to engage the students and put them on a path where they’ll be ready to enter high school more self-confident and feeling that they can set goals, achieve them and have a path for success in place.”

Jordan says it important that the CIS presence is there throughout the entire spectrum of the school experience and that’s why they want to grow the program into elementary and high schools. n

Want to learn more?

For more information about Communities in Schools of Brunswick County, including volunteer opportunities, call (910) 457-3494 or visit cisbrunswick.org.

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North Brunswick Magazine

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North Brunswick Magazine

Slow Down and Savor The founders of Brick + Mortar in Wilmington share their secrets to coffee, hand-crafted goods and appreciating the finer things in life.

STO RY BY

Fa n n y S l at e r

7

P H O T O G RA P H Y B Y

M egan Deitz

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First-timers bouncing down North 4th Street on a Saturday afternoon may be surprised when they find out what’s flowing from Brick + Mortar’s nitro taps. Sure, it’s dark and rich, comes with a frothy cap and bears a surprisingly smooth finish, but it’s not a stout. It’s not even beer — and the only buzz you’ll get is an elevated level of caffeine.

Having spent all of my Wilmington years nestled in the Brooklyn Arts District — NOFO, to be exact — I was elated at the announcement of Brick + Mortar’s arrival last year.

There was a lot of gossip around the ’hood, but I wasn’t sure if they were selling lattes, lagers or motorcycles. When I realized that coffee was on deck, I mistakenly assumed they were pumping out trendy cold brew simply because it was the hip thing to do. It wasn’t until I sat down with co-owners Jeff Bridgers and Logan Tudor that I discovered I had completely missed the point.

Picture this: two North Brunswick High School outsiders going from punk rock buddies to partners of a wildly successful, entirely self-invested business of handcrafted goods and supplies. Brick + Mortar’s 52

North Brunswick Magazine

foundation is built on the story of longtime friends who were simply looking to express their artistic abilities under one roof. Let’s step back in time, shall we?

Bridgers’ bona fide interest in welding sparked around the youthful age of 18. His pursuit of blacksmithing technically came from his roots, but in an untraditional way (there was no passing down of a family trade). His dad was a blacksmith by profession, but this versatile hobby struck Bridgers’ interest as more of a passion. Just as chefs crave standing over a fiery stove, metalsmiths find a similar peace in being surrounded by hot metal and blowtorches. Bridgers’ shop, Black Heat Forge, became his sanctuary for hammering away at his ironwork. The result? Elegant, one-of-a-kind objects. Bridgers sports an epic beard and mustache and was soon inspired to produce a new caliber of handmade specialties — the Forge & Foundry line of handmade men’s grooming products.

But Bridgers wasn’t the only craftsman keeping faces Their collaboration began as a retail emporium — a West looking sharp in the Port City. A stay-at-home dad and Coast–inspired, unpretentious, moto-themed spot where touring musician, Tudor began fiddling around with Bridgers and Tudor could exhibit their brands as well as woodworking as a pastime. those of their gifted friends, This quickly turned into a who are also creating second source of income as specialty goods worthy of the demand for his artisanbeing displayed somewhere made grooming goods, from sturdy. “Some of the items stunning tobacco pipes to might seem a bit out of the electric shave brushes, surged ordinary, but, hey, weird is in,” on the Internet. Customers Bridgers proclaims. of Tudor’s online portal, The duo perused several Lowborn Supply, became Wilmington locations but infatuated with the woodworker’s ultimately landed on the high-quality designs. up-and-coming north end of When Bridgers and Tudor 4th Street, where businesses reconnected and joined forces had already begun to Above: Looking for distinctive men’s grooming supplies? to sell their goods at a small flourish. Things took shape You’ll find them here. faster than either was market held by Palate Bottle Shop & Reserve, their success led to the realization that expecting and suddenly they had an empty store to fill. But Wilmington had an eager audience in search of motorcycles, then again, we are talking about two dudes who materialize cigars and upscale products for men. ideas by building them with their hands. Nearly everything

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(from tables to chairs and beyond) in Brick + Mortar is an incarnation of their skillsets.

As their soft opening in April 2016 approached, they decided they needed an additional concept to draw people in to hang out and browse the merchandise. Putting his past talents to good use, Tudor, who used to install craft-beer systems, landed on cold-brewed, nitrogeninfused coffee. After thoughtfully picking out one of Lativa Coffee Co.’s roasts as the exclusive bean of choice (and after much trial and error), Tudor calculated the ideal equation for producing the perfect cup. “As cigar smokers, we were chasing a f lavor,” Bridgers says about the process.

Brick + Mortar’s seemingly scientific cold-brew process took several attempts to perfect. As it turns out, craft coffee 54

North Brunswick Magazine

requires just as much rigorous shaping as a hop-heavy, citruson-the-nose, juicy-on-the-finish IPA. For those of you in this mainly for the caffeine high, here are the basics. There’s one roast and one brewing method.

The hardest decision you’ll make about Brick + Mortar’s coffee is hot or cold.

Because the shop owners encourage an uncomplicated lifestyle, they formulated drinks that stood for simplicity. But, for those in need of a matcha-this or mocha-that, there’s a minimal lineup of lattes and specialty drinks to get your fix.

Grab a growler and fill it up to your heart’s desire. Craft cocktail nerds (myself included) go gaga for KGB’s Bananas in Pajamas concoction, which features B+M’s concentrate.

Bridgers and Tudor have even teamed up with other foodand-drink fan favorites (like Flytrap Brewery for a Coffee

Logan Tudor, top, and Jeff Bridgers, bottom, both graduates of North Brunswick High School, are co-owners of Brick + Mortar in downtown Wilmington. Coldbrewed, nitrogeninfused coffee is one of their specialties.

Stout collaboration and Boombalatti’s for a righteous ice cream) to spread the local love. Psst: Ask about the Cereal Killer. Trust me.

Brick + Mortar is about appreciating the beauty of American handmade culture. For busy humans caught up in the bustling world of social media, it’s a place to take the time to breathe in some of the most basic parts of life. “Sure, you can quickly trim your beard with one hand while flipping through your Instagram feed with the other, but I believe there’s a romance in shaving,” Bridgers says. He says that this

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practice, along with the simple act of packing a pipe or smoking a cigar, can be somewhat of a meditation.

Brick + Mortar isn’t just another characterless shop doling out cappuccinos and insignificant objects for purchase. It’s a sacred space handcrafted by two old souls who want nothing more than to share with Wilmington how they slow down and savor the world. n

Want to go?

Brick + Mortar Goods and Supply 1005 N. 4th Street, Wilmington (910) 769-5311 brickandmortargoods.com

56

North Brunswick Magazine

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Community

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North Brunswick Magazine

A Helping Hand

F

Leland Citizen of the Year Walt Chmielenski helps the town have more fun.

Story by Teresa McLamb

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Michael Cline

Fifteen years ago, Walt Chmielenski did not live here. Today, he’s Leland’s Citizen of the Year. In a proclamation dated December 15, 2016, Leland Mayor Brenda Bozeman praised Chmielenski for his distinguished service to the town and asked for all citizens to join in extending their appreciation to him.

The town asked Chmielenski to join its new Parks & Recreation Board in 2006. An avid fan of several sports — he

played senior softball in Wilmington for 12 years and plays golf two or three times a week — he agreed to serve. In 2008 he was voted chairman, a position he has held ever since.

The board serves in an advisory capacity to the town’s director of parks and recreation. The board meets monthly and its greatest contribution is total engagement in the events planned for the community, such as a concert series and summer movies in Leland

Town Park and Bark in the Park, which encourages residents to bring their dogs for free inoculations and to meet pet-related vendors and more.

Perhaps the board’s most significant event is Founders’ Day celebrating Leland’s incorporation in 1989. The celebration is held the second Saturday of September and is free to the public. It includes vendors, children’s rides, lunch and much more.

The celebration has grown immensely as the town has grown.

“When we moved here in 2002 Leland had a population of 2,000,” Chmielenski says. “It’s now approaching 20,000. The town has just exploded.”

Chmielenski says he is gratified that the event has grown each year. “We’re probably getting between 3,000 and 5,000 people coming through the park that day,” he says. “I usually volunteer Spring 2017

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Community

there and generally do the hospitality tent where we receive the folks coming into the event.” He says he feels it’s important to greet visitors and to provide them with a schedule of events and other information to make their day more enjoyable.

group, and Chmielenski is hopeful there’ll be some creative new ideas.

Those ideas, just as those received informally from the community, are discussed by the board and presented to the town’s director of parks and recreation. Conversely, the director

A highlight of the event for Chmielenski is honoring veterans. “We have them sit next to the stage and play patriotic music and ask them by service group to stand,” he says. “It’s very patriotic and very emotional.”

A highlight of the event for Chmielenski is honoring veterans. “We have them sit next to the stage and play patriotic music and ask them by service group to stand,” he says. “It’s very patriotic and very emotional.”

He says of all the things he’s done in the role of serving the town, Founders’ Day has been the most rewarding. “I wanted to make sure we had an adequate way of advising the attendees who the entertainment is, the times, the vendors, where everything is located and whether we have a certain act. My involvement has been there, but I’m part of a team. I don’t do things on my own. I like to be involved and get things done, but certainly wasn’t looking for any kind of recognition.”

Coming up soon is Leland’s Easter egg hunt. It’s one of the town’s most popular events, so popular, in fact, that the board added an adult hunt two years ago.

Feedback from the community is critical to the success of the board’s efforts, Chmielenski says. Just recently, the board held a roundtable to discuss the types of events residents would like to see happen. This is the first time the board has held such a large-format 60

North Brunswick Magazine

might bring an idea to the board for review. The board may also work with town staff and other volunteers to pull an event together.

Chmielenski is quick to credit the parks and recreation director and town staff for the ultimate management of events. Until recently, the director was Niel Brooks, but Since Brooks’ recent promotion, Bill Nadeau has taken the job. Nadeau moved to Leland from Ohio, Chmielenski says, which he sees as a testimony to the town’s growing reputation.

Likewise, he says, there were many applications for the recently filled Cultural Arts Center director’s position.

Originally from Connecticut, Chmielenski graduated from Quinnitiac College (now University), then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Russian language intercept operator. The Air Force sent him to Syracuse University to study Russian. That’s where he met his wife, Judy.

They married in 1967 and he

finished his career at the National Security Agency in Maryland. He and Judy subsequently worked for Etna Group Insurance until 2002, when they retired.

They first visited the Leland area to see friends and later purchased property at Magnolia Greens. They are both very active beyond his obviously busy schedule with the town board.

Judy belongs to a book club as well as a women’s organization called Scene III. They frequently travel to Pennsylvania and Virginia to follow their grandchildren’s activities.

Chmielenski’s current term with the Town of Leland runs out a year from June. He hasn’t decided whether he will continue or not. “It will be 12 years on the board and 10 years as chairman when I finish the term,” he says. “We’ve got a fantastic board, and there are some folks that I think could easily move into the chairmanship if I decide to hang up my gavel — which I have never used, by the way.” n

Spring 2017

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2017 NORTH BRUNSWICK

NEW HOMES & REAL ESTATE A Real Estate Supplement Powered by North Brunswick Magazine Sp o n s o red

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Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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contents

NORTH BRUNSWICK NEW HOMES & REAL ESTATE

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what you will find Q&A WITH REAL ESTATE & BUILDING INDUSTRY LEADERS...5 North Brunswick New Homes Map Our annual guide for house hunters Compiled by Michelle Macken.................. 12 North Brunswick County Numbers & Info.............................. 17

2

Builder Showcases Horizon Homes, Logan Homes and Legacy Homes by Bill Clark

By Jenny Bowman, Denice Patterson and Wendy Redwine..........................................20 Resident Showcases Meet ten couples who call Leland home Compiled by Sandi Grigg..............................29

Neighborhood Showcases Brunswick Forest, Compass Pointe, Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation and Waterford of the Carolinas

By Debbie Elliott, Michelle Macken and Denice Patterson........................................40

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stats North Brunswick Real Estate Stats and Facts North Brunswick County Numbers & Info............................................................................... 17 Top 15 Transactions by Agent for 2016..................................................................................... 18 Top 10 Most Expensive Homes Sold in 2016........................................................................... 18 Overall Market Comparison In Brunswick County from 2011 to 2016.......................... 48

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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What is the state of the real estate market and home-building industry in southeastern North Carolina? To find out we went straight to the experts — the 2017 presidents of the Cape Fear Realtors Association, Brunswick County Realtors Association, Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association and Brunswick County Home Builders Association.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Lindsey A. Miller & Christian Viera

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Brunswick County Association of Realtors with Ben Styers

How did 2016 compare to 2015?

2014? As far as residential sales, 2016 was Brunswick County’s best year we have had in sales since 2005–06.

Brunswick’s market is strong, making steady growth in all aspects. A healthy market shows slower growth with no large spikes or dips, and that is what

PHOTO BY Christian Viera

What kind of events do you have planned for 2017? BCAR provides member education, networking opportunities and special meetings throughout the year. We offer at least three monthly education sessions on various topics and continuing education classes at least five times a year. We just had our annual Legislative Breakfast with Congressman David Rouzer as our speaker and will hold our Candidates Night in the fall to introduce candidates to the members. We will be having a member appreciation night on May 4 that will be nothing but fun, games and food for the members. (We are having a Cinco de Mayo theme – Quatro De Mayo, since it is on May 4).

We have a very strong connection to giving back to the community and are working with several local groups to get members involved (Habitat for Humanity, BFA, etc.).

Ben Styers

President, Brunswick County Association of Realtors

seen growth this past year? BCAR is growing – it is no surprise that with a healthy real estate market our membership grows. We currently have more than 800 Realtor members and close to 100 affiliate members.

Brunswick County has been for more than two years – growing stronger every day.

What do you foresee in 2017? Five years from now? BCAR had an outstanding 2016 and we expect it to continue through 2017. We are looking for sustained 2% to 3% increases in home values through the end of this year. Anything after this year will be based on the economy, mortgage rates, supply and demand. As an example, for January 2017 compared to January 2016, our listings are up by 29.2%, units sold are up 28.7%, average sales price is up by 6.8% and total sales dollars are up 37.5%. Trying to predict these same numbers five years out would be nice, but there are too many variables that come in play.

What are the benefits of being a part of your organization? By joining BCAR members become a part of the largest trade organization in the United States — the National Association of Realtors. It is only by joining BCAR that you can call yourself a Realtor. BCAR, the National Association of Realtors and the N.C. Association of Realtors all work together to use our resources and influence to have a unified, powerful voice in shaping public policy, setting standards for ethics and betterment of the real estate industry in general.

How many members are part of your organization? Has your organization

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Cape Fear Realtors with Neal Johnson

How did 2016 compare to 2015?

2014? 2016 was an outstanding year for home sales and was one of the best years we have seen in over a decade.

Our area residential home sales stats for January 2017 continue to confirm how active, healthy and robust our real estate market is today. January 2017 had a record-setting 601 total units sold; this is the highest number we have ever seen in our January history, up over 40.75% when compared to January 2016. We ended with a total of $139,815,629 in residential home sales volume, a massive 42% increase over January 2016. January 2017 median sales price had an increase of 1.70% compared to January 2016. In New Hanover County we see higher, more vigorous sales stats. January 2017 median sales price was up 8.65% to $213,000 compared to January 2016 of $196,000. January 2017 median list 8

PHOTO BY Lindsey A. Miller

What kind of events do you have planned for 2017? Cape Fear Realtors is doing its first large community forum with UNCW, Cape Fear Community College and Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo. The meeting will be held this fall, and we will present both sides of a contentious issue so that we can educate residents while we model civility. For more than 100 years Realtors, in their Code of Ethics, have advocated for the creation of adequate housing, the widest distribution of ownership and the preservation of a healthy environment.

Cape Fear Realtors intends to continue its community involvement to promote these values. Cape Fear Realtors is hosting two opportunities for members to interact with elected officials: Legislative Luncheon and Pork n’ Politics. We will also be celebrating the 95th anniversary of the organization in September.

Neal Johnson

President, Cape Fear Realtors

price was up 11.32% to $329,504 compared to January 2016 of $296,000.

Median days on the market in January 2017 was down 18.64 % to 48 days compared to January 2016 of 59 days.

What is also interesting to note is the continued decline in the absorption rate of homes in New Hanover County; it dropped 28.4% in January 2017 to 3.64 months compared to January 2016 of 5.08 months. In the real estate industry, it is widely considered that anytime the absorption rate drops below five months we are in a Seller’s Market.

What do you foresee in 2017? Five years from now? The projections are for continuing population growth for southeastern N.C. This growth will place pressure on the housing industry as the need for homes increases. This also places a demand on the infrastructure needs for water, sewer, roads and bridges. We will stay involved with all parties looking for the best ways to develop the limited resources that we have while preserving the quality of life we enjoy.

A recent study showed an 11% increase in single family permits from 2015 to 2016 in the Wilmington area and we

expect continued growth in 2017. This statistic clearly shows that housing is strong and developers are working hard to keep up with the demand. The same study shows an increase in the Residential Remodeling Index over the past several years and 2017 is predicted to be just as strong.

How many members are part of your organization? Has your organization seen growth this past year? Cape Fear Realtors has a strong membership that is currently 2,379. We have seen solid growth in the past year; in fact, since January 1 we have gained 102 members.

What are the benefits of being a part of your organization? Members of Cape Fear Realtors are committed to maintaining professionalism in the real estate business. Our members have unparalleled access to data that gives them the competitive edge in the industry. Our organization is also a strong advocate for protecting private property rights and preserving the benefits of home ownership. Giving our members the tools and support they need to be the most professional expert in the real estate industry is one of our fundamental values.

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

PHOTO BY Christian Viera

Jeff Satterwhite

President, Brunswick County Homebuilders Association

Brunswick County Homebuilders Association

What are the benefits of being a part of your association? A membership with BCHBA is a 3-in-1 deal. You join the Brunswick County Home Builders Association, the North Carolina Home Builders Association and the National Home Builders Association for one fee. There are many money-saving discounts available to members from companies like UPS, GEICO, Dell, Lowe’s, Office Depot, Hertz, GM, RAM, Budget, Wyndham, Verizon and many more. Another perk is the opportunities for networking with other members of the building industry. Additionally, members are updated on codes and other legislative activity weekly.

with Jeff Satterwhite What kind of events do you have planned for 2017? The 27th annual Golf Tournament is scheduled for June 9, 2017, and the 15th annual Parade of Homes is scheduled for October 20, 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29.

How did 2016 compare to 2015? The members of our association had more business in 2016, and each year shows a stronger industry.

What do you foresee in 2017? Five years from now? At this time, 2017 has started strong and depends more on changes in D.C. and that will be the same for five years from now.

How many members are in your association? Have you seen growth?

We are at 288 members now, and yes, we continue to grow in membership each year.

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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event of the year, our annual Parade of Homes. This year’s Parade will be the weekends of April 22 and 23 and April 29 and 30. We will also hold our two annual golf tournaments, one in May and one in October. As we get into the summer, we look toward our membership mixers and our SMC Broker Panel. In September we kick off with our Shrimparoo at Builders First Source, and in November we have our annual skeet shoot. In December we typically hold our last full event of the year with our Builder Panel. For a full update of all our events, take a peek at our calendar at cfhba.com.

PHOTO BY Lindsey A. Miller

Deans Hackney

President, Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association

Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association with Deans Hackney What kind of events do you have planned for 2017? Our yearly calendar stays pretty full with member specific events almost every month. We kick the year off with our HomeEXPO, and this year we celebrated our 25th annual HomeEXPO at the Cape Fear Community College Schwartz Center.

We also held our annual oyster roast in 10

January at Professional Builders Supply. In February we turned toward our annual MAX Awards, which is put on by the association’s Cape Fear New Home Sales Marketing Council. We also partnered with the Cape Fear Realtors® in February to bring our members the 2017 Housing Forecast.

From here, we gear up for our largest

How did 2016 compare to 2015?

2014? Just like the economy, the WCFHBA has rebounded significantly.

We have seen an overall increase in our membership as well as participation in all our events across the board. The WCFHBA still consistently ranks as one of the top 20 associations across the country in membership. We are the third largest homebuilders association in North Carolina, and the largest east of I-95.

What do you foresee in 2017? Five years from now? I see 2017 as really a good year of financial growth for the WCFHBA. The board of directors has made a strong commitment to further enhance and strengthen the association’s reserve funds that, in return, will keep the association strong for years to come. At the same time, I see a lot of growth in our membership for 2017. The Wilmington market has expanded quite a bit in terms of investment, so that has opened up a lot of opportunity for the HBA to expand as well. The biggest ongoing challenge for any association is proving your value to your membership. Over the course of the next two to five years, the WCFHBA must continue to refine its goals and objectives to meet the needs of our members. Strategically speaking, we will have to enhance our membership

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

tools and constantly improve not only what we deliver, but also how we delivers these tools to our members.

With technology literally changing every day, it places a unique challenge on member-based organizations.

How many members are part of your organization? Has your organization seen growth this past year? Currently we have more than 930 members.

This represents all of our builder members, associate members and affiliate members. From January 2016 to January 2017 we saw a 14.11% growth in membership. To me, this shows that the association is showing its value (ROI) to its members and prospective members.

What are the benefits of being a part of your organization? I think the largest benefit is that the WCFHBA serves as the voice of the building and development industries in the Cape Fear region. By becoming a member, you too become part of this voice. The most misunderstood attribute of becoming a member of your local HBA is that by joining, you are actually joining not only the local, but also the state and the national associations as well. We have what is known as a 3-in-1 membership. As far as some of the benefits, there are a great deal of discounts offered that can significantly help you save money. These include discounts on vehicles, office products, payroll services as well as workers comp and general liability insurance and more through Builders Mutual Insurance. We also have educational programs and serve as our members’ number one advocate. Through our partnerships, we have a very broad powerful advocacy network in place to help protect members’ bottom lines.

The HBA takes its politics very seriously, and we make sure we have representation on different boards, committees and councils so that we can help influence the decisions that affect our industry. n

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2017NORTH

NEW HOMES MAP

BRUNSWICK

NEW HOMES & REAL ESTATE

A Real Estate Supplement Powered by North Brunswick Magazine

OUR ANNUAL

GUIDE FOR HOUSE HUNTERS

Whether

you’re relocating to the area or just moving across town, whether you’re upgrading or downsizing or just want a change of scenery, there’s a house for you in northern Brunswick County.

We’ve plotted the area’s subdivisions on this map and given you an idea of the price range in each neighborhood.

Please keep in mind that the real estate market changes daily; therefore, some of the information in this section could change by the time you read this. Call or visit websites to verify information that is important to you.

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Ashton Place -Follow Highway 17 south just past Magnolia Greens and Brunswick Forest, take a right at the next light onto Lanvale Road. Follow Lanvale Road 2.75 miles to a yellow caution light and take a right onto Old Fayetteville Road.

Follow less than one quarter mile and Ashton Place will be on your right

5 Grayson Park -Located off of Highway 17 on Maco Road / Highway 87 N. -Approx. 8 miles from downtown Wilmington

-Approx. 6 miles from downtown Wilmington

-Contact: Sales Office, (910) 332-8504

-AshtonPlaceNC.com

-GraysonParkNC.com

-Contact: Trusst Builder Group, (910) 371-0304

-Homes from the high $190s, townhomes from $159,900

-Single-family homes from $149,500

2 The Bluffs on the Cape Fear -Follow Highway 74/76 west towards Whiteville.

Take the Leland exit onto Mt Misery Road. Take a right onto Mt. Misery Road and proceed 3 miles. Turn Right onto Dogwood. Take your first right into the entrance of The Bluffs on the Cape Fear and proceed to guard gate.

6 The Grove at Mallory Creek Plantation -Located off Highway 133, 4 miles from Highway 17 -Approx. 8 miles from downtown Wilmington -MalloryCreekNC.com -Contact: (910) 332-8501 -Homes starting in the $200s

-Approx. 15 miles from downtown Wilmington -TheBluffsNC.com

7

-Contact: The Bluffs, (866) 725-8337 -Lots from the $30s, homes from the high $300s

3

Hawkeswater at the River -Located on Highway 133 next to Belville Elementary School -Approx. 2 miles from downtown Wilmington -DRHorton.com

Brunswick Forest

-Contact: Sales (910) 821-8553

-Located on Highway 17 S.

-Homes from $182,990

-Approx. 6 miles from downtown Wilmington -Contact: Brunswick Forest Realty, (910) 371-2434

8

-BrunswickForest.com -Home sites from $70s, townhomes from the mid $200s, homes from the high $200s

4

Hearthstone -Located on Lanvale Road, about 1 mile off Highway 17 on left -Approx. 5 miles from downtown Wilmington -Contact: Lisa Smiraldi (910) 782-2804

Compass Pointe

-HearthStoneHomesNC.com

-Located on Highway 74/76 in Leland

-Homes from $250s

-Approx. 9 miles from downtown Wilmington -Contact: Sales Office, (888) 717-6468

12

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

NEW HOMES MAP

This North Brunswick County New Development map is NOT exactly to scale and is designed to give readers an approximate idea of where the new home communities are located. Prices in real estate can change often. Please double check with your Realtor for the most up to date pricing.

9

10

11

The Knolls at Barrington Place

Lanvale Forest

Lena Springs

-Located off second Leland exit off Highway 74/76 approximately 5.5 miles down Mount Misery Road

-Located on Lanvale Road 1.2 miles off Highway 17

-Located in Navassa

-Approx. 15 miles from downtown Wilmington -Secofconstruction.com -Contact: (910) 458-5605

-Approx. 7 miles from downtown Wilmington

-Approx. 8 miles from downtown Wilmington

-Contact: (910) 239-1555

-LanvaleForest.net

-Homes from the $120s

-Contact: Sean Skutnik (910) 279-1016 -Homes starting from the $170s

-Homes starting at $94,900

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

13

NEW HOMES MAP -Contact: Karen Evans, (910) 821-8553

12

22

-DRHorton.com -Homes start in $180s

Magnolia Greens -Located on Highway 17 south just past Waterford, across from Walmart -Approx. 5 miles from downtown Wilmington

-Located on Highway 17 S. across from Walmart

17

-MagnoliaGreensRealEstate.com

Shoreline at Westgate

-Contact: (910) 431-7692

-Located in Westgate off Highway 17 behind Walmart Shopping Center

-Single-family homes from $175s, townhomes from $160s, condos from $140s

Waterford of the Carolinas -Approx. 5 miles from downtown Wilmington -WaterfordNC.org -Homesites start from the $70s; homes from the $200s

-Approx. 5 miles from downtown Wilmington

23

-Contact: (910) 452-6355

13

-PentonDevelopment.com

Wedgewood at Lanvale

-Brick Villas from the $170s

-Located on Lanvale Road

The Cottages at Mill Creek Landing -Located on Village Road in Leland just before fire department

-Approx. 5 miles from downtown Wilmington

18

-Approx. 6 miles from downtown Wilmington

Southbend

-TheCottagesatMillCreekLanding.com -Contact: Sean Skutnik (910) 279-1016

-Located on Lanvale Road about 1 mile off Highway 17 on right

-Homes starting at $130s

-Approx. 5 miles from downtown Wilmington -Homes starting at $189,900, lots from the $50s

14 The Pines at Mallory Creek Plantation -Located 3.5 miles from the Leland exit on Highway 133 south

19 Summerlin Trace

-Approx. 6 miles from downtown Wilmington

-Located on Mt. Misery Road, .4 mile from Highway 74/76

-Contact: Sales Office, (910) 332-8501

-Approx. 7 miles from downtown Wilmington

-MalloryCreekNC.com

-Contact: (910) 512-4169

-Homes from the $200s

-Single-family homes from $139,900

20

15

-Contact: Stevens Fine Homes, (910) 332-8513 -WedgewoodNC.com -Homes from $169,900

24 The Willows at Leland -Located on Northgate Drive (just off Village Road behind the CVS Pharmacy) -Approx. 4 miles from downtown Wilmington -Townhomes from $104,900, single-family homes from $129,900

25 Windsor Park -Located on Highway 74/76 behind the Industrial Park, just past the second Leland exit on your right -Approx. 10 miles from downtown Wilmington

Sunrise Terrace

-Contact: (800) 745-7159

-Located off River Rd SE

-Located off Village Rd

-WindsorParkNC.com

-Approx. 7 miles from Downtown Wilmington

-Approx. 5 miles from downtown Wilmington

-Single-family homes from $130s

-Contact: Karen Evans (910) 821-8553

- Contact: Karen Evans, (910) 821-8553

-DRHorton.com

-DRHorton.com

RiverBend at Hawkeswater

-Homes start in $530s

21

16

Tyler’s Cove at Mallory Creek Plantation

For assistance with new homes or resales in any of these communities please feel free to contact the supporters of this section: Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage, (910) 371-1181 Intracoastal Realty, (910) 256-4503 Michelle Gurrera, (910) 233-5556 Karen Schwartz, (910) 431-9395

SeaBrooke

-Located off Highway 133, 4 miles from Highway 17

Sean Skutnik, (910) 279-1016

-Located off Lanvale Road NE. From Highway 17 turn left on Lanvale, then right on W. Highcroft Dr. NE and then left on Avington Lane.

-Approx. 8 miles from downtown Wilmington

Kelly Sloop, (910) 617-3081

-Contact: Kelly Sloop, (910) 617-3081

-Approx. 7 miles from downtown Wilmington

14

-Homes from the low $200s

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

Come Get The Latest Real Estate Scoop, Plus A Great Cup Of Coffee...

On The House.

Join me for “Coffee with Karen”

Karen Schwartz

REALTOR/Broker, ABR,SFR,CRS

Meet me any Wednesday, 9-10 a.m., at Port City Java in The Villages at Brunswick Forest.

The top-selling real estate team in northern Brunswick County, The Karen Schwartz Team can fit all the pieces of buying or selling real estate together for you. We are eager to share our knowledge of the market, so if Wednesday mornings don’t work for you, call me at 910.431.9395 to schedule another time. Either way, it’s my treat!

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage 481 Olde Waterford Way Suite 104 Leland, NC 28451

9 1 0 . 4 3 1 . 9 3 9 5 | karen@livingbythecoast.com | livingbythecoast.com Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

15

EVER WONDER WHAT HOMES SOLD FOR IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD? Intracoastal Realty’s HomeSpotter App NOW shows SOLD properties for the past 12 months!

THE AREA’S BEST REAL ESTATE APP Find Homes for Sale View Properties that have SOLD in the past 12 months To view SOLD listings, simply touch the Filter button on the top right, and select “SOLD” under Status. SOLD properties will show as red pins!

Download FREE App at App.IntracoastalRealty.com or search “Intracoastal Realty” in your App store.

16

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

North Brunswick County Numbers & Info‌ New to the area? Get more information and other numbers at NorthBrunswickMagazine.com Where is the post office?

Leland Ace Hardware (910) 383-6688 117-B Village Rd., Leland, NC 28451 Leland Post Office (910) 371-9013 1123 Village Road NE, Leland, NC 28451-8479 Winnabow Post Office (910) 253-5576 6351 Ocean Hwy. E (Hwy. 17 South) Winnabow, NC 28479-5559 How do I get cable, phone or internet access?

Atlantic Telephone Membership Corp.

(910) 754-4311 (phone, cable or internet) AT&T (888) 436-8638 (phone, internet) Time Warner Cable (910) 332-7800 (phone, cable or internet) Where is the nearest grocery store?

Food Lion on Village Road (off of Hwy. 17) (910) 371-1951 309 Village Road NE, Leland, NC 28451 Food Lion (off of Hwys. 74/76) (910) 383-1467 1735 Reed Road NE, Leland, NC 28451 Harris Teeter (Waterford Commercial Center) (910) 371-3944 2021 Old Regent Way, Leland, NC 28451 Lowes Foods (Villages at Brunswick Forest) (910) 371-5544 1152 E. Cutlar Crossing, Leland, NC 28451 Piggly Wiggly on Village Road (off of Hwy. 17) (910) 371-2696 112 Village Road NE, Leland, NC 28451 Walmart (910) 383-1769, (910) 383-1872 1114 New Pointe Blvd., Leland, NC 28451 Where are the nearest medical facilities?

Brunswick Novant Medical Center in Bolivia (910) 721-1000 240 Hospital Drive NE, Bolivia, NC 28422 New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington (910) 343-7000 2131 S. 17th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401

Where is the library?

Leland Library (910) 371-9442 487 Village Road, Leland, NC 28451 Where is the nearest drug store?

CVS/pharmacy (Villages at Brunswick Forest) (910) 371-1464 1132 East Cutlar Crossing, Leland, NC 28451 CVS/pharmacy (Village Road) (910) 371-0794 117A Village Road, Leland, NC 28451 Family Pharmacy (Clairmont Shopping Center) (910) 371-3181 112-G Village Road, Leland, NC 28451 Rite Aid (in Waterford) (910) 383-1098 501 Olde Waterford Way, Leland, NC 28451 Walgreens (in Magnolia Greens) (910) 371-0233 1019 Grandiflora Drive, Leland, NC 28451 Walgreens (Village Road) (910) 371-1806 319 Village Road NE, Leland, NC 28451 Where are the town halls located?

Belville Town Hall (910) 371-2456 497 Olde Waterford Way, Suite 205, Belville, NC 28451 Leland Town Hall (910) 371-0148 102 Town Hall Drive, Leland, NC 28451 Navassa Town Hall (910) 371-2432 334 Main Street, Navassa, NC 28451 Northwest Town Hall (910) 655-5080 4889 Vernon Road, Leland, NC 28451 Sandy Creek Town Hall (910) 655-3153 114 Sandy Creek Drive, Leland, NC 28451 How do I get involved in the community or volunteer?

(910) 253-2412 www.volunteer.brunsco.net

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

17

Top 15 Transactions by Agent

Listed from January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016 Ranked by total number of transactions listed from zip codes 28451 and 28479 Listing Agent

Company

Listed

Jerry L Helms

Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

92

Danita Mitchell

D.R. Horton, INC

53

Billy A Saffo

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage

50

Karen S Schwartz

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage

48

Buddy Blake Team

Re/Max Essential

48

Shawn C Horton

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage

32

Tom C Gale

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage

29

Donna W Savage

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage

25

Steve J Triola

Compass Pointe Realty, LLC

19

Regina M Drury

Century 21 Sweyer & Associates

17

Regina M Drury

Regina Drury Real Estate Group, LLC

17

Deryl Smith

Century 21 Sweyer & Associates

17

Jennie Stevens Team

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage

17

Wade G Jurney

Wade Jurney Homes, INC

15

Kelly M Sloop

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage

15

Top 10 Most Expensive Homes Sold in 2016 From January 1 - December 31, 2016

Ranked from highest to lowest by Sold Price in zip codes 28451 and 28479 Sold Price

Listed Price

DOM Listing Agent & Company

Selling Agent & Company

$735,000.00

$799,000.00

164

Jerry L Helms Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

Patty McGrath Carolina Plantations Real Estate

$729,000.00

$729,000.00

202

Jerry L Helms Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

Karen Holden Wilkinson Era Real Estate

$665,000.00

$699,475.00

128

Jerry L Helms Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

Laura Betz Re/Max Essential

$640,000.00

$659,000.00

227

Jerry L Helms Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

Jerry Helms Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

$615,000.00

$624,000.00

66

Carla D Lewis Intracoastal Realty Corp.

Wanda Mercer Holden Beach Properties, Inc.

$589,000.00

$589,000.00

0

Steve J Triola Compass Pointe Realty, LLC

Susan Rivenbark Keller Williams Realty

$588,900.00

$588,900.00

167

Jerry L Helms Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

Jerry Helms Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

$588,000.00

$589,000.00

479

Dawn J Berard Sold Buy the Sea Realty

Agent a Non Member A non Member Company

$579,900.00

$549,900.00

126

Jerry L Helms Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC

Seth Barbee Carolina Plantations Real Estate

$566,500.00

$572,900.00

1249

Carla D Lewis Intracoastal Realty Corp.

Ronel Austin Re/Max Essential

Source for data on both above charts compiled from the Brunswick County and Wilmington MLS.

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Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

We love this town.

Thanks, Leland.

We love being here to help life go right ™ in a community where people are making a difference every day. Thank you for all you do.

Josh M London, Agent 1112 E Cutlar Crossing Ste 104 Leland, NC 28451 Bus: 910-383-1303 josh@joshinsuresme.com

1601493

Franklin Rouse Jr, Agent 1107 New Pointe Blvd Leland, NC 28451 Bus: 910-371-5446 franklin@franklinrouse.com

State Farm, Bloomington, IL

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

19

S P E C I A L

S E C T I O N

Horizon Homes B Y J e n n y B owm a n

Creating energy efficient custom homes to suit your needs and lifestyle.

H

orizon Homes of Wilmington is a family owned business with one main mission

in mind: to design homes that suit homeowners’ individual needs and lifestyles with quality materials at an affordable price.

Robin Hackney designs and builds the homes while her husband Deans Hackney runs the land development side of the business.

Horizon Homes’ floor plans are customizable and energy efficient. Robin meets with every customer to design their CONTRIBUTED PHOTOs

home to suit their needs and lifestyle.

Features such as two car garages, screened porches, custom designed state-of- the-art kitchens, hardwood flooring, and granite countertops are just a few of the “upgrades” Horizon considers as standard. With their “It’s Included” mindset, all homes have 9-10 foot first-floor ceilings with crown molding, 42-inch kitchen wall cabinets, tankless gas water heaters, plus an

Horizon Homes prides itself on customizable floor plans and energyefficient homes.

upgraded energy efficient heating and air-conditioning system. To add to the energy efficiency of the home, radiant barrier roof decking and blown cellulose

directly with us during the entire process

Fortune Place is developed by Deans with 38

insulation in the walls are also standard.

from home design, selections and

lots in Phase One designed around a central

construction. Our ‘it’s included’ philosophy

pool and clubhouse and 56 lots in Phase Two.

Interested buyers can get started with customization right away on the Horizon

makes it easier for our customers to see

Homes website, BuyHorizonNewHomes.com,

exactly what they will have in their home for

where they can compose their new home

the price.”

“Wish List” and submit it directly to Robin.

Robin is a Green Certified Professional

The “Wish List” is the starting place for every

with the National Association of Home

Horizon Homes’ build. Robin customizes the

Builders, and every home is designed with

designs to meet the customers’ needs and

energy efficiency and sustainability in mind.

budget. Horizon Homes has an interior

This means working with trade partners to

designer that works with the customer

offer customers quality energy efficient and

during the selections stage to make the

environmentally friendly options Horizon Homes builds throughout

whole process easy and fun.

Brunswick County, in Compass Pointe and

Horizon Homes

exactly what we would want in our own

Palmetto Creek and in their newest

(910) 508-6655

home,” says Robin. “Every customer deals

community in Wilmington, Fortune Place.

“Our philosophy is to give the customer

20

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

BuyHorizonNewHomes.com

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2017 Edition

S P E C I A L

S E C T I O N

Logan Homes B Y D e n i c e P a tt e r so n

After three decades of building luxurious homes in coastal North Carolina, Logan Homes has expanded to Beaufort and Bluffton, S.C.

S

ince 1986 Logan Homes has been building quality homes in the

Wilmington and Brunswick County areas. D Logan started his company after working for years as a carpenter’s apprentice on homes in Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island.

After learning the craft of fine homebuilding,

Logan offers 15 in-house design collections that encompass numerous floor plans.

Clients can make design selections at the Logan Design Studio in Belville.

he knew he wanted to provide luxury and quality not only to individual homes, but also to entire developments.

Thirty-one years later, Logan and his team are still hard at work improving and growing Logan Homes. They have built a solid reputation as a preferred builder in developments such as Brunswick Forest, Compass Pointe, Helms Port, Landfall, Palmetto Creek, River Landing, St. James Plantation, Waterford and Winding River.

With 15 in-house home-design collections that encompass numerous floor plans, Logan Homes has a home design for just about anyone. They also will build on your private home site.

Logan Homes’ newest venture is its expansion into coastal South Carolina. The company is building homes on popular Dataw Island (near Beaufort), which Travel & Leisure magazine named one of the Top 100 Golf Communities in America. Additionally, Logan Homes is building dream homes in Hampton Lake and Hampton Hall, master planned communities near Bluffton. In order to meet the needs of their South Carolina clients, the company is proud to announce that they are currently working on a second design studio near Bluffton, slated to open in the coming months.

Regardless of location, personalization is a key component of a Logan Homes build.

22

For most people, the Logan experience

Located in the Leland area of Brunswick County, the Logan Design Studio is a

doesn’t end with the move-in. “Once a client

homebuilder’s playground. The

builds with Logan Homes, they become part

10,000-square-foot complex, along with a

of the family,” Logan says.

For the past three decades, thousands of

beautiful outdoor studio, is staffed by experienced designers, ready to assist those

homeowners have enjoyed the luxury of

who are embarking on a dream home-

owning a Logan home and are happy to

building experience.

share their experiences of building with

A buyer, under the guidance of these

Logan Homes. To read what customers have

design specialists, can see and touch the

to say about building with Logan Homes,

materials that will be used to build their

check the website for customer reviews and

new home, from cabinets and countertops

homeowner testimonials.

to outdoor grills and pergolas. For those who prefer the full-scale approach, Logan Homes has dozens of model homes that showcase the thousands of options that Logan Homes offers, all ready for visitors at a moment’s notice.

Whether you’re living locally or out of state during the process, everyone at Logan Homes works together to ensure a smooth homebuilding experience.

Logan Homes

“We use cutting-edge technologies and

(800) 761-4707

streamlined processes that make building

LoganHomes.com

their dream home as easy as 1, 2, 3,” says Logan. “We are more than a group of dedicated building professionals, we are a family.”

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

S P E C I A L

S E C T I O N

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark

BY Wendy Redwine

Photography: Crystal Glass

Time flies when you’re having fun — and building houses

T

his year marks an impressive 40-year milestone for award-winning regional

homebuilder Bill Clark Homes. What started in 1977 as Clark Construction in Greenville, North Carolina, has today grown into one of the nation’s Top 100 homebuilders.

And they’re just getting started.

Focused on providing the best value for

The 3,100-square-foot Virginia floorplan was designed as an ode to “ farmhouse chic.”

The Virginia in Compass Pointe has been named spring’s Ideal Living Home by Ideal Living magazine.

Retreat at Ocean Isle Beach, River Oaks, Belle

floor plans, customize an existing plan or

Shiplap trim details, an inviting “Southern-

Meade and coming soon, Hanover Lakes.

design a one-of-a-kind custom home.

style” front porch, a backyard fire pit and an

the homebuyer’s hard-earned money, Bill Clark Homes has successfully built thousands of new homes across the Carolinas and in the Wilmington area. Homeowners fill neighborhoods like Sunset Ridge, The

“Over four decades, we have celebrated a multitude of accomplishments,” remarked Heath Clark, president of Bill Clark Homes-

2016: A Designer Year In May of 2016 Legacy Homes opened its

expansive master retreat are just a few of the custom details you’ll find in the Ideal Home.

Wilmington. “Our proudest achievement

Design Studio in Brunswick Forest’s

remains the growing roster of families that

commercial shopping area, a central location

North Carolina’s premier homebuilder by

have trusted us to build their homes. We look

for many of their communities of focus. The

visiting the website, complete with a large

forward to welcoming many more satisfied

boutique-style, 1,800-square-foot space

portfolio of interactive 3D virtual tours.

new owners in the years ahead.”

offers customers a one-stop shop to select

You’re invited to discover southeastern

home finishes and spark imagination. It was

New Division, New Focus In 2015 the company launched a new

a true labor of love for Annah Norris.

“After years of growing our custom

division, Legacy Homes by Bill Clark, to meet

business, it was time to make the Design

the growing demand to build homes on

Center a reality,” Norris said. “Customers are

customers’ purchased homesites.

now greeted with an inviting, functional

“Legacy Homes by Bill Clark is focused on

space to meet with consultants, who guide

building quality homes with our customers’

them through their selections process. The

lifestyles in mind,” said Annah Norris, the

end result is that our customers’ homes

division’s director of sales and marketing.

meets their desired visions and budgets.”

“We blend exceptional craftsmanship and thoughtful design with highly individualized service. The end result is an enjoyable

An Ideal 2017 Awaits

Legacy Homes by Bill Clark

In an effort to further elevate the

(910) 363-1682

division’s reputation in the southeastern

building process.”

Not only will Legacy Homes build your

North Carolina marketplace, Legacy has

dream home in almost any community in

partnered with Ideal Living to host the Ideal

southeastern North Carolina, the premier

Home in the beautiful master-planned

homebuilder further sets itself apart by

community of Compass Pointe. The

offering many choices: move into a

3,100-square-foot Virginia floor plan was

completed home, choose from a portfolio of

designed as an ode to “farmhouse chic.”

24

LegacyHomesByBillClark.com

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

Top 20 Builders in Brunswick County, NC for 2016

140

From January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016 Ranked by total number of permits pulled

Bill Clark Homes 127 Racine Drive, Suite 201 Wilmington, NC 28403 ■ (910) 350-1744 ■ www.BillClarkHomes.com President: Bill Clark

87

Trusst Builder Group 481 Olde Waterford Way #100, Leland, NC 28451 ■ (910) 371-0304 ■ www.TrusstBuilderGroup.com President: Shawn Horton

D.R. Horton

72

1121 Military Cutoff Road Suite C-322, Wilmington, NC 28405 ■ (910) 821-8553 ■ www.DRHorton.com President: Brian Gardner

Logan Homes 60 Gregory Road, Suite 1 Belville, NC 28451 ■ (800) 761-4707 ■ www.LoganHomes.com President: D Logan

71

Wade Jurney Homes New Centre Market, 4719 New Centre Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405 ■ (910) 613-0695 ■ www.WadeJurneyHomes.com President: Wade Jurney

Stevens Fine Homes True Homes Kent Homes Pyramid Homes Cardinal Builders Hagood Homes Awk Corporation Southern Homebuilders GML Developers H & H Construction Isenhour Homes Bell Custom Homes Signature Homes Teeitup Ventures Carolina Blue Water

69 59 48 42 35 34 30 30 22 22 20 18 17 16 15

70

# of permits pulled

Source: Stats compiled by M.O.R.E (Market Opportunity Research Enterprises®) and are based on permits pulled between January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016.

26

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

27

Location. Quality. Value.

Take Hearth N EW H OM ESIT ES R EL EASED FOR S A L E

Hearthstone is a charming neighborhood

of beautiful brick homes featuring the same craftsmanship and attention to detail that Trusst Builder Group builds into each of its homes. With one big difference – THE PRICE. HOMES RANGE FROM 1,653 TO 2,381 SQ FT & PRICES RANGE FROM HIGH $200’s TO MID $300’s AMENITIES INCLUDE EXTENSIVE LANDSCAPING, A NEW POOL & BATH HOUSE

Call Lisa Smiraldi at 910.782.2804 to schedule a tour of our two fully furnished model homes.

74 76

Lanvale Road

Leland

Waterford

Magnolia Greens

Located off of Lanvale Road in Leland, across the street from the Villages at Brunswick Forest retail center.

17

Brunswick Forest

For additional information go to V I S I T H E A RT H STO NE . C OM 28

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

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2017 Edition

At Home in Leland

Meet TEN COUPLES who like calling Leland home.

Comp i l e d B Y P H O T O G RA P H Y B Y

S a n d i G r i gg

7

L indsey A . M iller

Leland is a great place to live. Ask anyone who lives here and they’ll give you a long list of reasons why they love this area. Whether they escaped the frigid winters of the North in retirement, moved to the area for work or grew up here and decided to stay, there are thousands of people who are willing to sing the praises of Leland and North Brunswick County. We tracked down a few them and asked them where they came from and why they chose to live here.

&

Bill Melissa Carlisle Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? We lived in Londonderry, New Hampshire, which is about 34 miles north of Boston. It is a city of about 28,000 people.

Why did you move here? We moved to coastal North Carolina because we were tired of the snow, ice and cold temperatures of the Northeast. We wanted to live in a warmer climate and we fell in love with all that coastal North Carolina had to offer in the greater Wilmington / Myrtle Beach area. The beaches, the Cape Fear River, Wilmington and the plantation communities in Brunswick County offer so much. We love the proximity of the fine arts and theater in Wilmington, the boardwalk and fine restaurants and having a major university nearby.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

We selected Compass Pointe in Leland after visiting several plantation communities. We were impressed by the tropical 30

feel of the community, the friendliness of the people and the beautiful amenities. It is located 10 minutes from downtown Wilmington and 20 to 30 minutes from Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach.

When did you move in? We closed on the home we had built in May of 2016 and moved in on November 11, 2016, which is our wedding anniversary date (44 years).

Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? Compass Pointe has a large number of qualified builders to choose from. We visited a number of model homes in the community and fell in love with the quality, look and feel of Bill Clark Homes. They had an excellent reputation and a strong presence of building in Compass Pointe. We have a quality home overlooking the golf course, friendly neighbors and fabulous amenities and we could not be happier with our move Compass Pointe.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? What we like most about living in coastal North Carolina is relief from the cold winters of New England, proximity to world class beaches, the historic significance of the area and the Southern hospitality of the people.

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Charles Lupe Sarracino Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? New City, New York Why did you move here? We retired and were looking to move to a location where the weather was warm and the cost of living was reasonable.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

We chose to move to Compass Pointe in Leland for several reasons: the amenities, which include the gorgeous Grand Lanai, the resort-style pool and the Wellness Center (a fantastic gym); the residents, who are incredibly friendly; and the fact that it’s a gated community. Furthermore, Compass Pointe is only 10 minutes from downtown Wilmington where we could enjoy the Riverwalk and the fantastic restaurants.

When did you move in? We moved here on July 2, 2016.

Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? We selected Trusst Homes as our builder. The custom look, the attention to detail and the standard finishes would be considered additional upgrades with other builders.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? The beaches! Within 25 minutes we have access to at least three beaches. We particularly enjoy Wrightsville Beach — it is simply heaven on Earth.

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Gregory Deborah Sereico Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? Glen Gardner in Hunterdon County, New Jersey Why did you move here? We were drawn to North Carolina due to the lower cost of living compared to New Jersey. We like the warmer climate but also still like having a change of season. We also liked the proximity to Wilmington and the beaches.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

We chose Compass Pointe after visiting numerous other communities in coastal South Carolina. There was a feeling in the community that no other could match. The amenities are top notch and it is referred to as the “happiest community,” which it certainly is.

When do you move in? We moved into our home in December, just prior to the holidays.

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Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? Horizon Homes built our beautiful home. From the first meeting with Robin Hackney we felt a strong connection. She paid attention to our wants and needs. We approached her with some ideas we had, and she never told us it couldn’t be done! She worked with us to make our dream a reality. She modified an existing model, incorporating our changes and ideas resulting in a brand-new model. What is optional with many other builders is included with Horizon Homes. We are thrilled with the final result.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? Location, location, location … and climate. Who can argue with 70 degrees in February?

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Barry Lhea Scotto-Laub Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? Massapequa, New York Why did you move here? For the weather, lifestyle, quality of life and cost of living. We see this area as growing and booming, and in our fields (Lhea is a professional resume writer and I am an author, event speaker and life coach) we can live anywhere.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

We chose Compass Point in Leland because it’s a gated community with awesome, friendly and happy people. We also like the beauty of the community and it felt right. It’s not on the water, but it’s close enough. And we like that the vibrant city of Wilmington is nearby.

When did you move in? We moved in to our house on November 4, 2016.

Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? Trusst Builder Group had the price range for the quality we were looking for.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? We enjoy all the amenities and access to food, shopping, arts and diversity of people.

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John Denise Norris Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? We are originally from Arizona, but before moving here we lived in Charlotte, N.C., for almost 29 years.

Why did you move here? We considered many options before retiring here. Some were outside of North Carolina, but in the United States and a few were in the Caribbean.

After much consideration, we decided that we wanted to stay in our home state but live near our favorite beaches.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

Our house in Hearthstone is the perfect size in the perfect location. We wanted to be close to the beach and Wilmington without the hassle of traffic. Plus the close-knit community and gorgeous customized homes really helped seal the deal.

When did you move in? Seven months ago (at the end of the summer).

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Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? We chose Trusst Builder Group. This was an easy decision since all the details we wanted were standard in this house. The value in their homes is remarkable.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? That’s a tough choice. We absolutely love the easy access to the beaches and waterways. But equally as awesome is our community. Our neighborhood is the best. Everyone is so friendly and sociable. Many of us are recent retirees who enjoy exploring the Wilmington area together.

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Tee Mike Leffin Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? Madison, Wisconsin Why did you move here? We are both teachers. Mike taught special needs students and I taught middle school social studies and language arts. I took early retirement and became a visual manager with Pottery Barn, and Mike continued to teach The Wisconsin winters grew longer and colder with more and more snow! We had no family left in Wisconsin with the exception of a daughter who would soon graduate from UW Madison. In 2014 I started researching warmer climates. We knew we wanted four seasons, close to ocean and an active living style.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

We flew down to look over several developments and fell in love with Brunswick Forest. First, it is filled with trees, ponds, parks and beautiful landscapes. We wanted an active living community as we love to work out, and Brunswick Forest provided us with everything we wanted. Kim Fanelli was our agent at Brunswick Forest and she was outstanding, showing us lots as well as houses.

When did you move in? We moved in January of 2016. We were wearing shorts in January! This is very exciting to us.

Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? Kim introduced us to Todd Garrett with Logan Homes, as one of the houses she showed us we were very impressed with. Todd was amazing in helping us navigate through the process of building a home while we were still in Madison. Logan Homes allowed us to change our floor plan to fit our needs, and we decided on building the Banyan.

When people walk into our home they often comment that it looks like a custom-built home, as the slight changes gave the floor plan a whole new look. As visual manager at Pottery Barn, I had a wealth of experts who helped me with colors, furniture, rugs, etc.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? Several of our favorite things about Brunswick Forest are pickleball (we are addicted), the wellness center where Michelle runs so many top-notch classes with amazing instructors, our neighbors and new friends — is not hard to make a ton of friends here! We love the social nights that the Forest provides and the concerts in the park, the trails to walk or bike and, of course, the Irish Pub (The Joyce). Our friends back home cannot believe all the activities we do each and every day and what a fun-filled social life we have. We thought we would miss the beautiful fall back in Madison and going to the Badger and Packer games, but to be honest, we love it so much here we didn’t notice. Once a week we make an effort to get out of Brunswick Forest, as to be honest, everything you need is here from doctors, to dentists, medical center, grocery store, restaurants, etc.

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Michael Cynthia Luciano Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? We previously lived in Lodi and Hawthorne in New Jersey.

Why did you move here? We moved to southeastern North Carolina because of the warmer climate, lower tax base, affordable lifestyle and proximity to beaches.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

We chose Compass Pointe because of location, location, location. Most of all, though, we chose it because of the people who live here.

When did you move in? We lived here part time for eight months and after moving in, in May 2016, we have now been here full time for about eight months.

Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? Our home was built by Trusst Builder Group.

We chose them for affordability, quality and reputation.

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What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? We love living here, for all of the above reasons and the fact that it’s close to the city of Wilmington, which has so much to offer.

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Sharon Don Cox

Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? Cary, North Carolina Why did you move here? We can both work remotely (Don is a writer and Sharon is a career coach and resume writer) and we really wanted to live near the beach.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

We chose Compass Pointe because it offered a gated community, a home with a pond and golf course view, tropical amenities (palm trees, landscaping, lanai/pool and fitness center) and proximity to many beaches and Wilmington.

When did you move in? We moved in on November 18, 2016.

and golf views. We fell in love with the views from our kitchen, great room and master bedroom.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? We love the balmy weather, great seafood, beautiful beaches and more relaxing pace.

Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? Legacy Homes by Bill Clark built our home. It is a beautifully crafted home with a great floor plan and pond

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Michele Kanatous William Benson

Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? Our hometown is Brooklyn, New York, and we lived in Millstone Township, New Jersey, for seven years before moving here.

Why did you move here? We left New Jersey for a few reasons ... cold winters, high taxes and lifestyle choices that just were not there. We chose this area for many reasons, including the great year-round weather, proximity to many gorgeous beaches, a wonderful lifestyle, great shops and restaurants and, of course, the Riverwalk. Oh how we love the Riverwalk!

What community did you decide to move to and why?

We chose Waterford of the Carolinas, mostly because nothing else we saw even came close to providing the lifestyle Waterford does. We live on the water and wake up to gorgeous sunrises almost every day. We take our batteryoperated boat out and cruise the neighborhood, we can fish off our dock or in any of the waterways as we coast along. It is a great, amenity-rich community offering tennis, pickleball, 38

a resort-style saltwater pool, a great clubhouse, a fitness center, beach volleyball, bocce ball and so much more.

When did you move in? We came here in 2011 and built our home in 2014. We moved into it in January of 2015.

Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? Trusst was our builder of choice and we could not have chosen a better builder. Trusst has a wonderful business model, providing a quality built home with most all of the higher-end finishes for a fair price with little to no need for extras. This is what sold us on Trusst. Everything we wanted came standard, which helped us to streamline the entire buying process. We LOVE our Trusst Grayson model home.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? Everything! Honestly, it’s hard to choose just one thing as there are so many favorite things! OK, I’ll pick one thing ... downtown Wilmington and the Riverwalk.

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Jane Gerry Sunderland Where did you live before relocating to southeastern North Carolina? Fitchburg, Massachusetts Why did you move here? Our daughter attended college at Elon University. That was our first introduction to North Carolina. As the kids moved away we started to talk about finding a vacation home nearer the coast. When we looked into the southeastern N.C. area, we saw great beaches, golf courses, biking trails, restaurants, access to good medical facilities, plenty of entertainment opportunities and a city like Wilmington, which is rich in culture. Leland’s low tax base was a definite plus, and we saw the potential for growth as many business’s and restaurants will be taking advantage of the population growth in Brunswick County.

What community did you decide to move to and why?

In the spring of 2014 we came to visit Brunswick Forest and took the tour of the village along with visiting several of the other communities. Brunswick Forest suited us the best. This community reminded us of our summer/winter home in Vermont. Both offer a tremendous amount of activities and amenities that could satisfy our need to enjoy the outdoors.

When we looked further at Brunswick Forest we had seen that the developer, Jeff Earp, had done an excellent job with the design of infrastructure, burying the power lines and in

particular being able to move the tremendous amount of rain water out of the community and into the retaining ponds throughout the village.

When did you move in? We moved in on June 15, 2015. This was after a winter in which in our town we saw 9 feet of snow in six weeks, during which time I shoveled the roof off three times. We left the shovel and snow blower back with our son.

Who built your home and why did you decide to build with them? After looking at several different models and builders, we decided to go with a Jordan Built home, (now Bell Custom Homes.). As soon as we walked into the Sanderling model we knew this home was the one for us. It was large enough and offered a space for a working office along with enough room for friends and family to visit.

Builder Cress Bell and his staff made the whole process very easy to manage from such a long distance away.

What’s your favorite thing about southeastern North Carolina? The beaches, weather, restaurants, golf courses, pickleball (the crack cocaine for adults over 55), tennis, biking and kayaking could all be listed as favorites. Really, it is the sense of community and the wonderful people we meet, from the those that have lived here all their lives to those who are now new neighbors and friends.

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S P E C I A L

S E C T I O N

Brunswick Forest B Y D e n i c e P a tt e r so n

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOs

At 10 years, the community is flourishing with 16 diverse neighborhoods and a wealth of amenities.

B

runswick Forest is a place where neighbors are more than neighbors —

they are family. Located 10 minutes from historic downtown Wilmington, the award-winning, 4,500-acre development offers 16 diverse neighborhoods featuring upscale town homes, low-maintenance patio homes, spacious golf course estates, stately

The newly renovated, 18,000-squarefoot Fitness & Wellness Center offers a place to meet friends and relax.

Cape Fear National offers 18 holes of award-winning golf and a new fleet of GPS equipped carts.

traditional classics and charming bungalows.

While each Brunswick Forest neighborhood has its own distinctive character, open space is a common theme, as are gracious parks, walkways and nature trails.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2017, the community is flourishing with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, well-lit tennis and pickleball courts, and a well-equipped fitness and wellness center. It borders Town Creek, a hub for canoeing, kayaking and fishing, and there are miles upon miles of walking, biking and nature trails. The spacious Community Commons is a gathering place for resident activities such as book clubs, card games and cooking classes.

The cornerstone of the Brunswick Forest developer team is Lord Baltimore Capital Corporation, a nearly $2 billion private investment organization and division of Amoco, one of the country’s first oil companies. Since 1921 Lord Baltimore Capital Corporation has been recognized as a respected steward that understands the responsibility of sensitive development and the importance of planning for the long term. Because of the financial strength of the developer and a complete absence of debt in the community, residents have peace of mind in an amenity-rich community.

“We are proud to provide such an ample variety of home and lifestyles here in

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northern Brunswick County,” says Brunswick

Banyan Bay is the newest neighborhood — a

Forest Director of Sales and Marketing Jerry

gated enclave of Florida-inspired homes

Helms, who is a Brunswick County native.

promising resort-like living.

“So we are delighted to have something for everyone.”

For instance, Cypress Pointe has classic Southern architecture in a neighborhood of

The Villages at Brunswick Forest is a vibrant town center with shopping, dining and medical offices at the entrance to the community.

trees draped with Spanish moss. Front

Nearly 1,800 families call Brunswick

porches, handsome columns and gas lanterns

Forest home, and the Brunswick Forest

add to the charm. Cape Fear National offers up

family grows every day. Marcia and Frank

to half-acre home sites on the Tim Cates–

Kramarz relocated from New Hampshire.

designed, 18-hole, must-play golf course.

“We chose the area for the climate, but we

Meadow Park is a family favorite with

chose Brunswick Forest for the people and

delightful homes, a central playground and a

the activities,” they say. “Making friends here

dog park for your four-legged friends.

has been easy and rewarding. Brunswick

Tennyson Village includes low-maintenance

Forest is a great place to call home.”

coastal town homes in a quiet neighborhood.

The classic coastal homes of Park Landing are within walking distance of the Fitness & Wellness Center and Community Commons. Nearby, Parkway Crossing offers a variety of home styles, with something for every lifestyle.

The expansive Shelmore neighborhood touts neo-traditional homes and coastal classic designs. It is sprinkled with pocket

Brunswick Forest

parks and is home to the 3-acre Hammock

(910) 371-2434, (888) 371-2434

Lake Park and Pool and a white sand beach.

BrunswickForest.com

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It’sinyournature tochoosethebest.

Come home to award-winning, amenity-rich living.

Brunswick Forest offers a coastal by nature lifestyle surrounded by scenic marshes, winding creeks and stunning ocean beaches. Residents enjoy all the region has to offer, as well as an outstanding selection of lovely homes and an abundance of truly exceptional amenities.

Cape Fear National ® Golf • Fitness Center • Walking & Biking Trails • Tennis & Pickleball Indoor & Outdoor Pools • Town Creek River Launch • The Villages Shopping Center

if it’s in your nature to seek excellence, we look forward to yourvisit.

Must play course Pickleball Courts Model Homes Kayaking

888.371.2434

BrunswickForest.com

PREMIER HOME SITES FROM THE $70s ELEGANT HOMES FROM THE $200s Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of these properties. The features and amenities described and depicted herein are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy real estate in any jurisdiction where registration or advance qualification is required but not completed. © Brunswick Forest Realty, LLC Licensed NC Real Estate Brokerage Firm

S P E C I A L

S E C T I O N

Compass Pointe

BY Michelle Macken

A year-round community that feels like an amenity-rich resort

“W

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOs

e feel so fortunate to have found this place!”

That’s John and Rose McGowan, formerly

of Falls Church, Virginia, and now living in Compass Pointe in Leland. The McGowans are one of hundreds of families who echo this sentiment and are thrilled to be enjoying life in this little piece of paradise.

Resort-style amenities are the hallmark of Compass Pointe.

Compass Pointe residents enjoy miles of walking and biking paths and trails.

style amenities. Harrelson always loved to

state-of-the-art equipment and spa services;

and features such as screened porches and

vacation somewhere tropical, and after

tennis and pickleball courts; lakes and ponds

patios that allow homeowners to enjoy the

working as hard as he always has, being by a

for fishing and kayaking; miles of walking

pleasant, temperate climate year-round. With

pool surrounded by palm trees was the one

and biking trails; a dog park; an outdoor

low-maintenance villas, cozy cottages and

time that he could relax. That was the

amphitheater; an 18-hole golf course and

cabanas, Florida-style patio homes and elegant,

inspiration for Compass Pointe. He believes

extensive golf-practice facility; a pro shop;

traditional brick homes to choose from, there

that everyone deserves a nice place to call

and a “Floribbean”-style restaurant,

is something to suit everyone’s taste. Compass

home and that your home should be a

Latitudes, that is open to the public.

Pointe usually has more than 50 homes under

Compass Pointe was created from a vision that Bobby Harrelson had more than 20 years ago when he purchased the land that is now a private, gated community with hundreds of gorgeous homes and resort-

comfortable place to relax and enjoy time

Compass Pointe is preparing to open a new entrance out to Highway 74 that will

with friends and family.

construction at any given time and currently has approximately 750 residents.

Marks encourages everyone to visit the

Though it feels a like a private getaway,

offer commercial village shops in the near

Compass Pointe is a short 10-minute drive to

future, as well as Osprey Village, a luxury

community and tour the Builder Showcase

downtown Wilmington. Wilmington is rich is

facility with an onsite medical campus.

Homes and amenities.

history, art, and culture and offers an

Additionally, construction is beginning this

eclectic blend of shopping, dining, and

year on an indoor pool facility and lazy river

those who live outside of our area and need

entertainment. It’s also only a hop over to

that will wrap around the existing pool and

accommodations, and special restaurant and

Wrightsville Beach, where daily seaside

channel lake.

golf offers for locals,” she says. “Come out to

walks, surfing or paddle boarding can be

Amanda Marks, director of sales and marketing at Compass Pointe, says the

part of your routine.

Amongst the 2,200 acres that comprise

major amenities have been delivered, and

acres set aside for nature conservation

residents can enjoy a resort lifestyle today,

areas, including 880 acres of Certified Gold

yet there are still many wonderful

Audubon Signature Sanctuary. Resort-style

opportunities for buyers to purchase new

amenities are carefully placed throughout

developer inventory in a new community,”

the community and include The Grand Lanai,

she says.

and welcome you to our community.”

Compass Pointe (888) 717-6468

The homes in Compass Pointe are built by

commercial grade kitchen for residents and

the area’s top builders and offer quality

the Oasis Bar and Grill; The Resort Oasis

craftsmanship and practical designs. They are

Pool; The Pointe Wellness Center with

inviting and comfortable with open floor plans

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our Discovery Center. I’d love to meet you

community is in its glory days. “Most of the

the community, you will find nearly 1,000

a large clubhouse with lounge seating, TVs,

“We have Discovery Packages available for

Special section: north Brunswick New Homes & Real Estate

CompassPointeNC.com

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Resort-Style Community Compass Pointe is an award-winning, gated community that offers a lifestyle unlike anything else you will find.

We’re perfectly located in convenient seclusion, off Hwy 74 in northern Brunswick County, just 10 minutes from downtown Wilmington, NC. Our resort style amenities and brand new Compass Pointe Golf Club, along with the abundance of activities and entertainment options in the area will make you feel like everyday is a vacation.

Call Listing Agent Melanie Gardner to See Our New and Resale Homes.

910.231.7755

Homes from the Mid-$300’s This is not intended to be an offer nor solicitation to sell or buy real estate in Compass Pointe by residents of Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, or Oregon, or in any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. *Some restrictions may apply. Call for details. An offering statement has been filed with the Department of State of the State of New York. A copy of the offering statement is available, upon request, from the subdivider. The filing of the verified statement and offering statement with the Department of State of the State of New York does not constitute approval of the sale or lease or offer for sale or lease by the Department of State or any officer thereof, or that the Department of State has in any way passed upon the merits of such offering. © 2017

S P E C I A L

S E C T I O N

Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation

BY Michelle Macken

Golf, arts, activities, amenities, friendly neighbors and a fantastic location make this one of the most popular neighborhoods in Leland.

M

agnolia Greens Golf Plantation, located approximately 5 miles south of

Wilmington off U.S. Highway 17 in Leland, offers convenient living in a relaxed atmosphere. The neighborhood is wellestablished and features mature landscaping and single-family homes, condos and townhouses built by quality homebuilders.

Most of the community’s homes are situated around the neighborhood’s large, beautifully landscaped public golf course.

Magnolia Greens offers a number of luxury amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, paved walking and biking trails and two clubhouses.

The Magnolia Greens Golf Course is a 27-hole, public golf facility that is known as one of the top public courses in the Southeast and has been host to several PGA Tour and USGA qualifying events. The

dinner and a wide selection of appetizers,

classes and neighborhood volleyball

Championship Course, designed by

sandwiches, soups and salads. The back

tournaments. Retail stores and restaurants

acclaimed golf architect Tom Jackson, is a

patio of the clubhouse is the perfect place to

are nearby, offering residents convenience

par 72 course and has Bermuda grass

relax with a cold beverage and is a favorite

and variety. There is plenty to see and do, so

fairways and champion Bermuda greens.

hangout among neighborhood residents.

make sure to schedule your private tour of

The course is suited for all levels of play,

But there is more than golf at Magnolia

with five sets of tees on each hole so players

Greens. The neighborhood is also home to

can adjust according to their skill levels.

the Leland Cultural Arts Center. At 1212

The Azalea Course is Magnolia Greens

Magnolia Village Way, the center is a place

Golf Course’s alternative for players looking

for local artists and fans of the arts to come

for something that is slightly less

together to admire and create artwork.

challenging. The nine-hole course is a great

There is a gallery, a pottery studio, a shop

place to enjoy a relaxed round with friends

for woodworking, sculpture and metals, a

or to learn the fundamentals of the sport. In

painting and drawing studio, a dance studio

addition to the two courses and 27 holes,

and a classroom.

there is also a full-service practice facility

Magnolia Greens offers a number of

that is the only place in the area with a

luxury amenities to its residents, including

natural grass range and top-of-the-line

indoor and outdoor pools, miles of paved

range balls.

walking and biking trails and two clubhouses

To keep play timely, Magnolia Greens

with exercise equipment and tennis courts.

maintains its rule of no more than four

Something is always going on at Magnolia

players per group. The course has a pro

Greens, whether it is movie nights, wine

shop and a full-service restaurant, Blossoms

tastings, book club gatherings or charity golf

Restaurant, featuring breakfast, lunch and

tournaments. There are also group exercise

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Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation today.

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S P E C I A L

S E C T I O N

Waterford of the Carolinas B Y D e bb i e E l l i ott

Water, water everywhere

D

o you dream of a waterfront lifestyle but think you can’t afford it? Think again.

More and more home buyers are discovering an idyllic and affordable waterfront lifestyle just minutes from downtown Wilmington at Waterford of the Carolinas.

Waterford is a planned and gated community in Leland that offers 17 miles of navigable freshwater canals and the CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

breathtaking beauty of Osprey Lake. Most of the homes back up to a canal or pond and many feature private, backyard docks from which homeowners can fish, launch kayaks or simply enjoy a gorgeous sunset.

Waterford includes 19 intimate neighborhoods, each of which is protected by a privacy gate closed from 8 pm to 6 am daily. The neighborhoods are connected by a series of walking trails, bike paths and bridges that allow residents to walk and bike throughout the community. And the

The Grayson is one of 27 award-winning Trusst Builder Group house plans that buyers can choose from at Waterford of the Carolinas. The 2,568-square-foot, 3-bedroom, 3-bath home features an open floor plan, luxurious finishes such as tray ceilings and skylights, a study and an expansive, screened-in back porch.

waterways and canals let residents kayak or canoe from one area to another.

Established in 2002 Waterford is a 575-acre, master-planned community with 1,010 homesites, 17 miles of canals, 12 miles of walking trails and bike paths and an amenity-rich, country-club lifestyle.

Currently 86 percent of the homesites are built upon, but many prime homesites are still available for purchase. In 2016 Trusst Builder Group released a limited selection of the biggest and best waterfront homesites in Waterford. Trusst Builder Group has built more than 3,000 homes in New Hanover and Brunswick counties since 1992 and the majority of homes in Brunswick Forest.

In Waterford, Trusst operates an on-site sales center Monday through Saturday from 1 to 5 pm. In addition, a fully furnished Trusst model home is available for tours and another model home is under construction.

Buyers can choose from more than 27 award-winning house plans ranging from 1,653 to 3,360 square feet.

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“Waterford is completely different than anything else we looked at,” said Michele

do for their customer. They were terrific to work with throughout the entire process.”

Kanatous, a resident of Waterford since 2011.

Trusst Builder Group has an exclusive

“We spent more than a year looking at

marketing alliance with Coldwell Banker Sea

neighborhoods all over Wilmington and

Coast Advantage to market all Trusst Builder

Leland and nothing ever really hit me until we

Group homes, including Waterford,

looked at Waterford. It had everything we

Hearthstone, The Forks at Barclay and

needed, and we fell in love with the idea that

RiverLights. Brunswick Forest and Compass OF THE CAROLINAS

we could get into a kayak in our own backyard

Pointe, however, continue to market their

and paddle throughout the neighborhood!”

own properties.

Kanatous and her husband, Bill Benson, live

Village Shoppes

in a home built by Trusst Builder Group and according to Kanatous, they “absolutely love it!” Kanatous and Benson built The Grayson, a one-story, 2,568-square-foot home that features three bedrooms, three baths and an expansive screened-in back porch. “The Grayson is the absolute perfect home for us,” said Kanatous. “What sold us on Trusst and

OF THE

CAROLINAS

Village Shoppes Waterford of the Carolinas

this particular house was the quality, the

(910) 371-0304

finishes and the price. Everything Trusst

TrusstBuilderGroup.com

does is an example of what a builder should

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2017 Edition

BIGGER & BETTER

Waterfront Homesites Now Available

TRUSST BUILDER GROUP

HAS JUST RELEASED A LIMITED SELECTION OF THE BIGGEST AND BEST

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27 HOUSE PLANS AVAILABLE RANGING FROM 1,653 TO 3,360 SQUARE FEET

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Brunswick County - Overall Market Stats 2011-2016 Year by Year Comparison of Volume, Transactions, Days on the Market & Sales Price

Includes ALL Residential (Site Built, Condo, Townhome, Modular, Manufactured, Patio Home & Unlisted Comps) in ALL zip codes for Brunswick County, NC

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

$ Volume

$391,811,824

# Transactions

1631

Avg. Sales Price

$240,228

$ Volume

$457,478,900

# Transactions

1963

Avg. Sales Price

$232,214

$ Volume

$519,266,428

# Transactions

2290

Avg. Sales Price

$226,754

$ Volume

$528,784,962

# Transactions

2228

Avg. Sales Price

$235,115

$ Volume

$892,755,404

# Transactions

3665

Avg. Sales Price

$243,168

$ Volume

$917,621,000

# Transactions

3746

Avg. Sales Price

$243,610

Source: Brunswick County Association of REALTORS

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Top 20 Builders in New Hanover County, NC for 2016 From January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016 Ranked by total number of permits pulled

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D.R. Horton 1121 Military Cutoff Road Suite C-322, Wilmington, NC 28405 ■ (910) 821-8553 ■ www.DRHorton.com President: Brian Gardner

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H & H Construction 8209 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28411 ■ (910) 219-1485 ■ www.HHHomes.com President: Jack Rostetter

True Homes

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Bill Clark Homes 127 Racine Drive, Suite 201 Wilmington, NC 28403 ■ (910) 350-1744 ■ www.BillClarkHomes.com President: Bill Clark

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Premier Homes & Properties PO Box 4232, Wilmington, NC ■ (910) 313-3331 ■ www.PremierHomesOnYourSite.com President: Bob Weinbach

Logan Homes Trusst Builders Stevens Fine Homes Penton Construction Plantation Construction McAdams Homes Pulte Home Corporation Robuck Homes Charter Building Group Wade Jurney Homes GML Developers Mungo Homes Hardison Building SECOF Construction Blanton Building

53 51 45 32 25 21 20 20 19 17 14 13 13 12 12 11

# of permits pulled

Source: Stats compiled by M.O.R.E (Market Opportunity Research Enterprises®) and are based on permits pulled between January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016.

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A New Link for Leland The Mallory Creek Connector will provide easier and safer transportation through town.

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STO RY BY

A l l i so n B a r r e tt C a r t e r

7

I

It seems odd that homeowners

Photo by Chris LaCoe

would be excited to see construction outside their homes. But at Mallory Creek Plantation, a relatively quiet hamlet off N.C. 133, they are ready for activity. After years of waiting, Mallory Creek Road will be extended to Rice Gate Way in Brunswick Forest.

The Mallory Creek Connector, as it is called, has been on the Town of Leland’s master plan for some time.

The developer of Mallory Creek was originally obligated by town ordinances to continue the road as the subdivision around it was built, but when the recession hit most of the home building stopped, as did the construction of the road. Today Mallory Creek Road comes to a screeching dead end.

Until recently, the developer of Mallory Creek remained obligated to complete the road and landscape the area surrounding it as future phases of the subdivision got approved and built, but the Town of Leland decided it was time to move things along. The town agreed to contribute funding for construction, and the project started in October 2016.

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Above: The new Mallory Creek Connector (orange) is expected to be complete later this spring.

Left: Construction began in October 2016.

The Connector is scheduled to be completed in late spring of 2017.

“The town is sharing the costs with the developer of Mallory Creek to accelerate the completion of this road because it is so important to the town,” says Town of Leland Economic and Community Development Director Gary Vidmar. “We put money in the pot to get it all done now.”

The Connector is integral to Leland’s development and safety. Most importantly, it will create easier access for medical and emergency response teams. Without the need to drive down N.C. 133 to U.S. 17, response times could be sliced by minutes, possibly a difference between life and death. A bonus is that it has the potential to keep insurance costs lower for residents in affected areas.

In addition, retailers in Brunswick Forest will benefit from easier access to their storefronts.

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Above: The road extension, seen here on the engineer’s plat, will add a new level of convenience to many of Leland’s residents.

“We’re excited to be able to ride our bikes to restaurants at Brunswick Forest,” says Lindsay Griffith, a Mallory Creek resident and mom to two. “We’re also thrilled we will not have to go down 133 to get to the grocery stores on that side of town.”

Residents like the Griffiths will able to bike and walk safely as the developer is installing a paved, 8-foot-wide multi-use asphalt path along the entire length of the Connector. The developer also will install street lights along the way.

On the other side of the Connector, Brunswick Forest residents will have easier access to N.C. 133 and Southport. Unfortunately, residents on Rice Gate Way will see a significant change to their road. They will no longer live on a dead-end street, which is stubbed out for a future connection.

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Many have concerns about speed control on the new longer road. The Town of Leland is not installing speed bumps or stop signs, but there will be a roundabout. This traffic pattern was selected in an effort to future-proof the road. Eventually, roads will be placed perpendicular to Mallory Creek Road and will connect at the roundabout. In the meantime, the speed limit will not be increased and a patrolled zone is to be expected.

Jerry Helms, director of sales at Brunswick Forest, says that the Brunswick Forest community fully supports anything that makes connection with the Town of Leland easier. “We know this will be good for businesses in Brunswick Forest, plus anything that helps the town progress and grow is good for everyone,” he says.

The Mallory Creek Connector is just another step to a more connected Leland. n

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Pickleball for One and All The paddle sport is a smash hit in Brunswick County.

STO RY BY

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Dean Blaine

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P H O T O G RA P H Y B Y

North Brunswick Magazine

Michael Cline

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P

ickleball. The name might sound obscure, but the game, described as a cross between tennis, badminton and Ping Pong, is certainly not. Pickleball is the fastestgrowing sport in the nation, and it’s booming in retirement communities throughout Brunswick County.

Seniors like it because it’s a low-impact version of tennis, with all of the fun but easier on the joints. Communities like Brunswick Forest and Compass Pointe can’t build courts fast enough. Seniors are showing up in droves. Gone are the placid pastimes of bocce ball and shuffleboard. Across Brunswick County, pickleball is the new game du jour.

“Pickleball is here and it’s here to stay,” says Marty Smith, local pickleball ambassador for the United States Pickleball Association (USAPA). As ambassador, Smith is charged with introducing and growing the sport in the area. In addition to owning his own pickleball paddle business (BF Pickleball Paddles), Smith teaches training classes up to four times a week. He estimates that he’s taught thousands to play in Brunswick County.

The bug has bit heaviest in Brunswick Forest. In 2011 the development had two pickleball courts and 10 or 12 players, Smith says.

Today there are 10 courts, and the development’s Brunswick Forest Pickleball Club boasts nearly 500 members. The courts are busy seven days a week.

Pickleball has become so popular that pickleball courts have become a selling point for developments looking to woo potential customers. Agents often drive clients past the courts while on property tours.

“More people retire every day, and they’re looking for something to do,” Smith says. “Pickleball is one of the top choices. It gets people away from the computer and the television and gets them out of the house.”

There’s also a social aspect to the game, Smith adds.

Players often get together for coffee after a match, and more than 150 people showed up recently for a pizza party thrown by the Brunswick Forest Pickleball Club, whose motto is “Get out of the kitchen and onto the court.”

“It brings people out together and meeting people,” says Jennifer Ludwig, an avid pickleball player and Brunswick Forest resident. At a friend’s suggestion, Ludwig and her husband tried pickleball a few years ago. They were 124

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hooked immediately. “I have not seen anyone pick up a paddle and play and not want to come back and play again,” she says, adding that the game reminds her of high school and college, when she participated in organized athletics.

Pickleball is played on a court the size of a badminton court, much smaller than a tennis court. Players hold paddles about twice the size of a Ping Pong paddle and volley a lightweight wiffle ball back and forth until someone faults by missing the ball or hitting it out of bounds. Teams or singles play until one of them reaches a score of 11. Ludwig said it’s like playing Ping Pong while standing on the table.

Smith rebukes the notion that pickleball is anything like tennis. “It’s not as invasive on the joints as tennis is,” he says.

Also, a tennis ball can travel 100 mph, while a pickleball is a wiffle ball that practically floats.

Pickleball is a little safer for the senior set. “In tennis you step backward to hit, in pickleball you step forward,” Smith says. He coaches players not to step backward while playing pickleball to prevent falls. He also instructs them to wear the proper shoes.

Pickleball can be played at a much slower pace, Ludwig says. “You can play at all different levels, which makes it fun for everybody. I don’t know many sports besides golf that you can play at any age.”

The origins of the game can be traced to a backyard on Bainbridge Island, Washington, in 1965. Two men, Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell, arrived home one cloudy day to find their families moping around the house. The kids were getting on each other’s nerves, so Pritchard and Bell sent them outside to play. The two men scrounged up some Ping Pong paddles and a wiffle ball and arranged a makeshift court on the blacktop in the back yard. They assembled a badminton net and instructed the kids to volley the ball with the paddles back and forth over the net. Hours later the kids were still at it, and Pritchard and Bell thought they might be on to something.

The next week they introduced the new game to the neighbors and before long the entire block was playing it.

The rules were based on badminton with a few variants. The net was lowered from 60 inches to 36 inches to allow players to hit the ball on a bounce. Other rules conformed the game based on obstacles in the yard. For instance, there’s a rule in pickleball that the server must have one foot within the baseline during serve. This rule was crafted because there was a tree behind the baseline in Joel Pritchard’s yard. The only way to avoid hitting the tree during the backswing of

Above: Brunswick Forest, Magnolia Greens, Waterford and Compass Pointe all boast pickleball courts as a community amenity.

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the serve was to have one foot within bounds, a rule that survives to this day.

As to the name of the game, the story goes that the Pritchard’s owned a cocker spaniel named Pickles. Every time the ball would land off the court, Pickles would pick it up and run away. “Pickle, ball!” the players would shout and the dog would bring the ball back. When it came time to name the new game, the choice seemed clear.

The men formed a corporation in 1972 to protect the creation of the new game. In 1976 Tennis magazine published an article titled “America’s Newest Racquet Sport,” and the rest is history. Today, the sport has its own national governing body along with Pickleball Magazine, websites dedicated to the sport, YouTube videos and “The Pickleball Show” weekly podcast. The game is played as far afield as India and Spain.

Smith thinks pickleball might someday find its way to the Olympics. “It’s a sport of the future,” he says. n

Want to play?

For a list of public pickleball courts in Brunswick County, visit usapa.org. To learn the game, call Marty Smith at (703) 928-1619.

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www.HolmesSecurity.net Spring 2017

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SNIPPETS

Brunswick Senior Resources Center Hosts Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony An overwhelming number of people attended the ribboncutting ceremony for Brunswick Senior Resources Center in Leland on February 20. The Leland facility is one of five full-service senior centers in Brunswick County. The $3.2 million building has been in the works for about 10 years, and Brunswick Senior Resources, Inc. President Jim Fish said he was pleased to introduce the 12,464-square-foot building to the community.

Leland Mayor Brenda Bozeman and Brunswick County Commissioner Frank Williams spoke of their appreciation for everyone who was involved in bringing this senior center to fruition. After the ceremony, the crowd enjoyed refreshments

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provided by Jondough Coffee and Doughnuts and Ryan Gibbs Catering as well as beautiful floral arrangements donated by Sweet Nectar’s Florist.

Guests were allowed to roam the halls and explore the center, which features fitness equipment and space for exercise classes, arts and crafts, billiards, games, dance, educational classes and other activities. Any adult 60 years and older will be able to enjoy free services at the center, which will be open between 8 am to 4 pm. Rooms in the building will be available to rent for weddings, birthday parties and other events upon request.

SNIPPETS

The PGA Tour is Coming to Wilmington The annual Wells Fargo Championship is one of the largest, most prestigious sporting events in North Carolina, and Eagle Point Golf Club in Wilmington will host the 2017 tournament. The event will be held May 1 to 7. Tickets start at $30 and are now on sale. Parking and round-trip shuttle service from tournament authorized lots will be free. Champions for Education, a nonprofit host organization, manages and operates the Wells Fargo Championship; since 2003 it has raised more than $18 million for its charities.

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SNIPPETS

Leland/Belville Leadership Breakfast Benefits Boy Scouts of America Coastal District On March 1 the Cape Fear Council of the Boy Scouts of America Coastal District held a breakfast fundraiser to promote the benefits of Scouting, raising more than $12,000 in the process. Dr. David Sink, Leland/

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Belville breakfast co-chair and an Eagle Scout, opened the program with welcoming remarks, and Joshua Hart of Eagle Scout of Troop 750 led the Pledge of Allegiance. Brunswick County Co-Chairman Phil Norris led

the invocation, followed by CoChairman Michael Callahan, who talked about his involvement and benefits within the Boy Scouts.

Dr. Sink discussed the financial benefits of Scouting within the community. He presented each attendee with a financial breakdown of how the dollars are used within the Cape Fear Council, noting that 91 percent of all dollars raised stay in the local area to provide services to youth members, parents, Scout units and leaders, as well as all chartered organizations.

Featured speaker and WECT news anchor Jon Evans spoke about the impact Boy Scouts had on his son in his youth. Dr. Sink concluded the breakfast with closing remarks and thanked sponsor Dr. Phillip Khan for the delicious meal. The council thanks everyone involved for helping its boys be “Prepared. For Life.”

SNIPPETS

North Brunswick Business Expo a Success North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce held its annual North Brunswick Business Expo on February 25 at Leland Cultural Arts Center. The expo was open to business owners, employees, potential customers or anyone who just wanted to check out what is happening in our region. It was free to attend and provided network opportunities with hundreds of local business people. Vendors set up more than 50 booths featuring everything from education, healthcare, pets, professional services, computer and technical needs, recreation, relocation, and home and garden services.

Corning Credit Union provided a free Shred-A-Thon.

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Admission $5

Art Fair | Live Music | Beer Tasting * LCAC | 1212 Magnolia Village Way | 910.385.9891 132

North Brunswick Magazine

FACES & PLACES

Belville Town Hall Ground Breaking

AG Carter, Shannon Hamilton & WC Lanier

Suzanne West & Dana Fisher

Sue Bouchard, Athina Williams & Glendale Corbett

John Clark, Peter and Donna Schardien, & Brenda Bozeman

Bob Campbell, Bob Corriston & Frank Williams

Emily Flax & Brunswick County Sheriff John Ingram

Jeff Cappadona, Joe Boyd, Kim Phillips & Glenda Browning

John Lynch, Jim Bucher & Laura Copley

Tyler Wittkofsky & Bob Walker

Mike Forte, Mike Allen, Frank Williams & Joe Breault

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FACES & PLACES

Habitat Dinner Dance at Leland Cultural Arts Center

Gayle & Larry Wilson

Denise Kinney & Lee Ottaway

Tori & Justin Asbury

Track Schwartz, Kristin & Jon Tait Photography: Wendy Hunt

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Larry & Agnes Liptak, Fran & Bert Gallagher

Bill Bear & Les Christiansen

Bonner & Carolyn Thomason, Lynn & Tom Wooten

Angie & Chris Royal

Sean Skutnik & Lam Nguyen

Samantha Aryeetey & Lakesha Devaughn

Becky Davis & Paula Schultz

Naomi & Ophard Willis, Linda Killian

FACES & PLACES

Les Christiansen, James Diaz, Chris Royal & Jerry Tate

James & Dorothy Cole

Karen Koyle & Deb Davidson

Carol McLaughlin & Bill Hylwa

Val Barbour, Adrienne Stanton & Cheryl DeVincentis

Misgana & Abiy Belege

Mike & Jan Newman

Judy Bass & Naomi Willis

Larry & Cheryl Roger

Eric & Kimberly Mullis

Janet Berta & Bob Boeke

Tony Ward, Laura Mathis, Rachel Miles & Allen Quigley

Maria & Kevin Murphy

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FACES & PLACES

Michael Braddock II Client Appreciation Party

Matthew & Gina Swanson

Kennon & Kim Briggs

Jim Zelenski & Debbie White

Jessica & Jeremy Middlesworth

Bob & Lynda Bass

Jim & Jan Clark

Mike & Lisa Macdonald

Hans & Sheila Schult

Gail & Gary Bass

Bill & Tammy Ewing and Clarice & James Ewig

Alan Warner & Joanne Levitan

Ron & Andy Abramowitz

Berl & Audrey Penton

Dr. William & Ashley Carmichael

Gary & Barbara Blind

Matthew & Fran Klein

Photography: Genie Leigh Photography

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John & Sherri Tinney

Lisa & Dr. Josh Dobstaff

Mark & Bella Said

Cy & Pat Chaco

Jim & Lori Tugman

North Brunswick Magazine

Jack & Teresa Stainback

Roger, Doug & Tracey Weigold

FACES & PLACES

Cape Fear Heart Ball

Legare Simpson & Matthew Adams

Stewart Montgomery & Susan Evans

Todd Godbey, Peggy O’Leary & Justin Sorrells

Wanda & Nick Kentrolis

Andy & Erin Collins

Ashley Miller & Dana Fisher

Ben & Suzy Kearns

Violet Price & Chasity Chace

Patricia Davis & Sadie Chapman

Rob Kaiser, Elaine Leggett, Suzanne & Patrick Kelly

Neil & Erin Firth

Chris Lacey, Adam Brown, Gene Long & Sam Proffit

Maya Baker & Euran Daniels

Hunter Crumpton & Candace Wellborn

Leah Sander, Ellie & Brian Landreth, Lauren Satterfield

Bridgette Williams & Perry Pence

Sheila & Jon Evans

Neil & Whitney Leonard

Melodye & Scott Visser

Chuck Schoninger & Beth Anne Linden

Photography: Wendy Hunt

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North Brunswick Magazine

What’s happened

Paws Place Crowdrise Campaign

Sustainability Symposium and Expo

Paws Place Dog Rescue needs help funding its new facilities.

The new indoor building will provide shelter from the outdoor elements, and the new land will allow dogs the opportunity for safe outdoor exercise and rehabilitation. Paws Place Dog Rescue provides care and love no matter the situation or health status of the dog. This shelter is 100% run on donations by caring citizens and receives no outside subsidy money. Visit www.crowdrise.com/ tara-and-jeff-building-fund/fundraiser/jeffsatterwhite to donate.

On March 17 the sixth Sustainability Symposium and Expo took place at Brunswick Community College’s Leland Center. The expo focused on Saving Money through Supply Chain Innovation.

Directors, managers and supervisors in charge of procurement, purchasing and buying; supply chain management; risk management, finance and investor relations; and farmers, grocers, and entrepreneurs planning to expand or growing their business were all encouraged to attend. It was also a great opportunity to network and learn from the experts.

Belville Municipal Facility Groundbreaking On February 13 the Town of Belville broke ground on its Municipal Facility. Mayor Mike Allen offered the introduction, invocation, pledge and opening remarks. Commissioner Joe Breault offered reflections and introduction of the architect and contractor. Dana Fisher, executive director of North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce, instructed the shovel-turning ceremony.

It was the beginning of an exciting time for the Town of Belville.

Mom and Dad’s Meetup Samara’s Village hosted a social event for parents and children on March 4. Moms met from noon to 2 pm and were served lunch.

Dads met from 4 to 6 pm and were served dinner. A good time was had by all.

Open Enrollment Lottery at Charter Day School Communities In Schools of Brunswick County Announces New Executive Director The Board of Directors of Communities In Schools (CIS) of Brunswick County is pleased to announce that Bonnie Jordan, BSW, has been selected as the new executive director of the nonprofit organization. Jordan succeeds Nancy Lamb, who resigned from CIS in September 2016. The selection was made after an extensive search and selection process during which time Jordan served as interim executive director.

Jordan’s passion for education and her community service experience prepares her well to lead CIS of Brunswick County.

Jordan’s resume includes more than 17 years of planning, grant writing and program management in the nonprofit sector. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) from Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and completed master’s level courses at Rutgers University. She joined the CIS of Brunswick County team in 2013 as the Program Operations Officer and secured many grants to sustain and grow the CIS Action for Success Dropout Prevention Program. Jordan successfully wrote a grant for over $1 million to fund the 21st Century Community Learning Center Afterschool Programs at Cedar Grove and Shallotte Middle Schools. She has served as a key member of the CIS Senior Management Team, working closely with staff, board of directors, school leadership and community partners. Prior to joining CIS, Jordan served as the program director for Catholic Charities Emergency and Community Services in Burlington County, New Jersey.

A lottery was held on February 16 at Charter Day Middle School in Leland. Charter Day School is a K-8 public charter school that is tuition-free and available to any N.C. student who chooses to enroll. The school currently serves approximately 920 students.

While the school accepts any student who enrolls regardless of ability or income, the school does have grade-level capacity limits.

Each January, the school holds its Open Enrollment period for the next school year. On January 31, all students are accepted unless there are more applications that seats available in their selected grade level. When this occurs, a lottery is required to fairly determine which students are placed in the available seats and which will join a wait list. This year’s lottery had more than 200 applications vying for only 160 openings. Charter Day School currently and consistently produces Brunswick County’s top scoring elementary and middle schools on EOG tests.

Roman Gabriel III Speaks at BCCF Annual Community Luncheon Brunswick Community College Foundation hosted its seventh annual Community Luncheon on March 15 at the Dinah E. Gore Fitness and Aquatics Center. Guest speaker was Roman Gabriel III, who shared how community college impacted his success and helped him get to where he is today. Born in Wilmington but raised in southern California, Gabriel attended College of the Desert before being awarded a football scholarship to University of New Mexico. After college he played for the Oakland Raiders

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What’s happened

and the Boston Breakers of the USFL before a neck injury took him out. He is the son of former New Hanover High School and N.C. State standout quarterback and Los Angeles Rams and Philadelphia Eagles star Roman Gabriel. After his pro career, Gabriel III coached football at Arizona Western Junior College.

He has spent the last 25 years as a radio/ TV host and awardwinning producer and filmmaker. His program Sold Out Sports Talk is broadcast nationwide on American Family Radio (WJKA 90.1FM locally) Saturday nights at 8:06 pm.

Charter Day School Grad Scores Full Ride Former Charter Day School student Zachary Potter has been selected to receive a four-year, full-paid scholarship through the collegiate U.S. Army ROTC program.

Zachary will graduate from North Brunswick High School this summer and has been accepted by Campbell, UNC Pembroke, ECU and N.C. State. His mother said that Charter Day School’s strong belief in conservative morals and high social standards naturally drew him to join North Brunswick High School’s prestigious JROTC program, where he achieved the highest possible rank of Battalion Commander. After he completes his degree, he will be sworn in as an officer in the U.S. Army on active duty for four years. Charter Day School is managed by The Roger Bacon Academy, whose founder Baker Mitchell watched Zach’s maturation with great interest. Although he was accepted at four universities, he quickly made Campbell his choice and plans to pursue a degree in Christian Studies. Zachary wants to be a pastor after his military service obligation.

Ocean Terminal, Sunny Point. The work was conducted under the direction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District. Just under 8 feet long, and weighing approximately 1,000 pounds, the cannon was discovered in the vicinity of the Spanish flag ship Fortuna, which sank in the Cape Fear River in September 1748 during King George’s War. Staff with the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Underwater Archaeology Branch estimate the cannon dates from pre-1756, but have not yet determined its nationality. The artifact currently resides at the Brunswick Town site, wrapped in burlap and under a light water spray to keep it wet. A special tank will be constructed for the cannon’s conservation, which will be placed on the patio of the site’s visitors center, allowing visitors to view the conservation progress.

The cannon will be submerged for at least several months in an electrolysis solution designed to remove salts and encrustations and stabilize the metal. Once conservation is complete, the cannon will be on display at the Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson site. The Office of State Archaeology and the Division of State Historic Sites are within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Photography: Contributed

Tony Award Winner Linda Lavin Returns to the Wilmington Stage for Symphony Pops!

Photography: Contributed

Colonial-Era Cannon Discovered Near Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson State Historic Site

Wilmington Symphony Orchestra was pleased to welcome back Tony Award Winner Linda Lavin in the headlining role for a special Symphony Pops! performance. Lavin was accompanied by pianist Billy Stritch, bassist Tom Hubbard, jazz violinist Aaron Weinstein and drummer (and husband) Steve Bakunas. The concert was held on February 11 at the Wilson Center.

Photography: Contributed

Conservation of a colonial-era cannon recently recovered from the Cape Fear River will soon begin at the Brunswick TownFort Anderson State Historic Site in Winnabow. The cannon was recovered by Norfolk Dredging Company near the property boundary between Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson and Military 140

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Handmade Quilt Raffle Jean Burdick Miller is a major contributor to the Brunswick community. A mother of four, a grandmother of nine and a

What’s happened

great-grandmother of six, she was a nurse for 36 years and has an incredible passion for nursing and education. She is volunteer coordinator for Odell Williamson Auditorium, an active member of Camp United Methodist Church in Shallotte, and has been named Rotary Outstanding Citizen of the Year. At 87, she is a ball of energy who warms the hearts of many.

To ensure Miller’s legacy, a group of friends, initiated by John and Carolyn Jones, established a permanent endowment in her name at Brunswick Community College Foundation (BCCF) for nursing scholarships. To date her friends and family have contributed a total of $16,175 toward the goal of $25,000, the amount set by Brunswick Community College Foundation for an endowment. Once the goal is obtained it will generate a $1,000 a year scholarship for a deserving Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) student. This is wonderful news since the demand for nurses is growing both locally and nationally.

As a way to contribute funds to the endowment and raise awareness for the cause, on February 23, 2016, Miller embarked on a mission to sell raffle tickets for her handmade quilt. After nearly a year of telling her story to everyone she knows, she sold a total of 1,763 tickets. She sold the last 115 of those tickets on December 8, the night of the drawing. The winner of the handmade quilt was Tonya Green, who said “this is the best day of my life,” when she heard her name announced.

“Throughout the year, as she brought the proceeds of her sales into the foundation office, I heard how she sold the latest batch of tickets,” said Elina DiCostanzo, director of resource development at BCCF. “We discussed her sales pitch and the stories she told. It was a delight to witness her energy and excitement, as she counted each dollar and asked for a receipt.”

Local Charter Schools Win Ninth National Cheerleading Championship

and one fifth place national title. The program also earned two national Spirit of Sport awards — the competition’s Miss Congeniality equivalent — as well as an award for the highest jump score. Broadcast on ESPN 3, the national competition included approximately 330 squads across various divisions.

These champion squads are comprised of K to 8 students from public charter schools managed by Leland-based company, The Roger Bacon Academy, Inc. (RBA). Because charter schools do not receive funding for athletic programs, the company sponsors cheerleading and football teams for its client schools, which include Charter Day School in Leland, South Brunswick Charter School in Southport, Columbus Charter School in Whiteville, and Douglass Academy in Wilmington. One hundred and sixtyfive students participate in the RBA cheerleading program. The common denominator for the program’s success is Head Coach Jean Lafave. An unpaid volunteer, Lafave leads both programs with the support of volunteer assistant coaches, one of whom includes her daughter, Abby, an alumna of a former national champion squad.

An overview of each squad’s achievements: Varsity, Level 4 – Charter Day School and Columbus Charter School 1st place National Champion, Highest Jump Score Jr. Pee Wee, Level 4 – Charter Day School, Columbus Charter School, South Brunswick Charter 1st place National Champion, 1st Runner-up in first-ever Skill Games Pee Wee, Level 4 – Charter Day School 2nd place National Title Jr. Varsity – Columbus Charter School 5th place National Title, National Spirit of Sport Award- Level 3 Jr. Pee Wee –Charter Day School and Columbus Charter School 4th place National Title, National Spirit of Sport Award- Level 1 Photography: Contributed

North Brunswick Newcomers Club (NBNC) Meeting

A Leland cheerleading program has won its ninth national championship since 2011. The Roger Bacon Academy Vikings Pop Warner program sent five squads to national competition in Orlando, Florida. With five squads competing in different divisions, the program earned two first place national titles, one second place national title, one fourth place national title,

North Brunswick Newcomers Club met on March 10 at Leland Cultural Arts Center. Town of Leland Economic & Community Development Director Gary Vidmar was the first speaker. In this role since April 2015, Vidmar leads the town’s economic and community development initiatives, including retaining existing businesses, attracting new businesses and expanding job opportunities. Also speaking was Sam Marshall, commercial and consumer horticulture agent for the N.C. Cooperative Extension in Brunswick County. He covered topics from home gardening and Master Gardener Volunteer Training, to pesticide education for farmers and commercial landscapers in the Cape Fear Region.

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What’s happened

CIS Receives Grant to Support Dropout Prevention Programming Communities In Schools of Brunswick County (CIS) has received a $4,800 grant from the Orton Family Foundation of Shelburne, Vermont. The grant will provide programming support for atrisk students served through the CIS Action for Success dropout prevention program at five Brunswick County middle schools.

Recognized as the most effective dropout-prevention program in the nation, the CIS Action for Success Program follows best practices of the national CIS Model, providing students with one-on-one relationships with caring adults to help remove barriers to learning. CIS currently provides an Action for Success program in five middle schools that incorporates success coaches, community volunteers and club and business partnerships to support student achievement. CIS assists Brunswick County students through tutors, mentors, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, After School programs, Teen and Peer Court programs and parenting education, with a major focus on dropout prevention services.

High School Jazz Band, hors d’oeuvres, a raffle, giveaways and much more. New neighbors and old friends filled the tables, excited at the chance to catch up and celebrate the sense of community that Brunswick Forest has cultivated in all of them.

Brunswick Forest is not just a place for retirees, and Michael’s roster of clients reflected this. Young families also enjoy the community. Laura and Will Hinton were eager to talk about their positive experience finding a home in Brunswick Forest. The evening rounded out with the presentation of a $500 donation to the North Brunswick High School Band Booster Club.

Relay for Life Charity Basketball Game The second annual Relay for Life charity basketball game took place on March 10, with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s office taking on the New Hanover County’s Sheriff’s office. Held at South Brunswick High School, the event also featured McGruff the crime dog, concessions, games, prizes and much more.

Brunswick Forest Client Appreciation Party More than 160 community members gathered for the third annual Brunswick Forest Client Appreciation Party on February 17 at Leland Cultural Arts Center. Host Michael Braddock II, a sales executive at Brunswick Forest, offered jazz courtesy of the North Brunswick

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Advertisers Index Advertiser

Phone#

Page#

4ever24fit..............................................................................................................910-399-4760 62 American Mini Storage..............................................................................910-383-6500 24 AMP Custom Concrete..............................................................................910-540-3928 142 Art Catering & Events.................................................................................910-755-6642 14 Asset Storage....................................................................................................910-371-2331 50 Austin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery................................................910-769-1605 46 Big Sky Designs................................................................................................910-793-3992 NH11 Bill Clark Homes...............................................................................................910-350-1744 12 BlueWave Dentistry......................................................................................910-383-2615 BC Boyette Law Office.......................................................................................910-251-9213 20 Brunswick County Dept. of Social Services.............................910-253-2112 130 Brunswick Forest............................................................................................910-371-2434

17, NH40, NH41

Brunswick Forest Veterinary Hospital.........................................910-777-2107 133 Brunswick Point Apartments...............................................................910-383-2345 3 CAMS........................................................................................................................877-672-2267 NH6 Cape Fear Dental Care................................................................................910-371-5965 32 Cape Fear National.........................................................................................910-383-3283 26 Capeside Animal Hospital.......................................................................910-383-2100 142 Carolinas Oral and Facial Surgery....................................................910-762-2618 20 Carolina Shores Car Wash......................................................................910-769-0796 19 Cherubini Orthodontics............................................................................910-371-2323 132 Coastal Carolina Pediatric Dentistry...............................................910-794-2266 61 Coastal Insurance............................................................................................910-754-4326 NH6 Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage........................................910-371-1181 NH4 Compass Pointe...............................................................................................888-717-6468 NH42, NH43 Compass Pointe Golf Club.......................................................................910-777-7766

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Computer Warriors......................................................................................910-399-3797 121 Corning Credit Union...................................................................................800-677-8506 NH11 Crossfit of Leland...........................................................................................910-791-3200 19 Dead Crow Comedy.....................................................................................910-399-1492 138 DentalWorks.......................................................................................................910-371-9490 11 Dentures in a Day............................................................................................910-371-9444 38 Design Associates..........................................................................................910-256-3452 NH19 Edge Landscaping Company................................................................910-616-6729 118 Edward Jones - Shannon Sandlin.....................................................910-509-1466 34 EmergeOrtho....................................................................................................800-800-3305 7 Farm Bureau Insurance.............................................................................910-371-2111 28 Fat Tony’s Italian Pub....................................................................................910-399-1022 20 First Bank...............................................................................................................910-383-3955 NH49 Flights Wine Bar...............................................................................................910-408-1402 38 Four Seasons Dry Cleaners...................................................................910-859-8394 34 Franklin Rouse - State Farm Insurance........................................910-371-5446 NH19 Gallery of Fine Art..........................................................................................910-452-2073 49 Glen Mead Center for Women’s Health.......................................910-763-9833 15 Halftime Sports Bar & Grill.....................................................................910-859-7188 49 Hawthorne at Leland Apartments..................................................910-371-5313 5 HearthStone........................................................................................................910-782-2804 NH28 Holmes Security Systems......................................................................910-793-4181 127 Horizon Homes.................................................................................................910-508-6655 NH20, NH21 Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes and Fries....................................................910-371-2707 118 Intracoastal Realty Corporation.........................................................910-256-4503 NH16 J & K Home Furnishings...........................................................................843-249-1882 NH50 JonDough Coffee and Doughnuts..................................................910-399-7548 121 Josh London – State Farm Insurance............................................910-383-1303 NH19 Joyce Irish Pub..................................................................................................910-408-1400 38

Advertiser

Phone#

Page#

Karen SchwartzColdwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage........................................910-431-9395 NH15 Legacy Homes by Bill Clark....................................................................910-363-1682 NH24, NH25 Legal Shield..........................................................................................................910-297-0925 121 Leland Veterinary Hospital.....................................................................910-371-3440 19 Logan Homes.....................................................................................................800-761-4707

49, NH22, NH23

Logo Shoppe......................................................................................................910-399-4457 28 Luxe Home Interiors Waterford........................................................910-371-0464 115 Magnolia Bed & Biscuit..............................................................................910-399-3213 24 Magnolia Greens.............................................................................................PHONE??

NH44, NH45

McPherson’s Acme General..................................................................910-655-4006 43 Michelle Gurrera..............................................................................................910-233-5556 NH45 Miller & Associates Family Dentistry.............................................910-371-9444 127 Mr. Appliance......................................................................................................910-796-1118 19 Mulch & More.....................................................................................................910-253-7663 50 Murray Art & Frame.....................................................................................910-371-3833 38 New Hanover Regional Medical Center.......................................910-342-3400 IFC NHRMC Physician Group New Hanover Medical Group...............................................................910-254-1033 23 North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce...............................910-383-0553 57 North Brunswick Chiropractic ...........................................................910-371-1200 61 Novant Health....................................................................................................910-754-5988

4, 13

Original Cape Fear Rooter.......................................................................910-777-3520 127 PC Solutions........................................................................................................910-371-5999 14 Permanent Make Up by Theresa......................................................910-232-1001 49 Port City Java ...................................................................................................910-383-2429 46 Precision Tree Care, LLC...........................................................................910-899-0577 24 Prestige Outdoor Lighting......................................................................910-612-1910 31 P.T.’s Grille...............................................................................................................910-399-6808 61 Purple Onion.......................................................................................................910-755-6071 14 Raymond James Financial Solutions, Inc...................................910-371-0366 143 Rhodes Law Offices, PLLC.....................................................................910-383-3610 NH27 RJB Tax Associates, LLC...........................................................................910-338-3001 50 Robert G. Merz, CPA, P.C..........................................................................910-383-6644 57 Sandpiper Pediatrics...................................................................................910-207-0777 57 Sean Skutnik, Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage.....910-279-1016 NH19 Seidokan Karate...............................................................................................910-616-7470 43 Smithfield’s Chicken N Bar-B-Q.........................................................910-371-6900 6 Splish Splash Dog Wash............................................................................910-399-3426 121 Sullivan Law.........................................................................................................910-508-2200 34 Swell Vision Center.......................................................................................910-408-1116 43 Sweyer Property Management.........................................................910-256-3031 62 Tina Lee Massage Therapist & Health Coach.........................910-233-5615 121 Town of Leland - Leland Cultural Arts Center........................910-385-9891 132 Troy Williamson - On Q Financial.......................................................910-262-2613 46 Trusst Builder Group..................................................................................910-371-0304 NH28, NH46, NH47 Turf Medic.............................................................................................................910-769-2818 115 Ultimate Burial and Vault..........................................................................910-755-6001 138 University of North Carolina Wilmington..................................910-962-3000 9 UPS Store..............................................................................................................910-383-1401 28 Veronica A Zinkham, LPC........................................................................412-638-9131 142 Waterford Wellness.....................................................................................910-376-8118 142 Wilmington Computer Warriors.......................................................910-399-3797 121 Winds Beach Resort Club........................................................................800-334-3581 138 Wilmington Jewish Film Festival.................................................................................................................................118

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North Brunswick Magazine

North Carolina’s

NEWEST Championship Golf Course

Call 910.777.7766 to Book Your Tee Time Today.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Located at our 19th Hole.

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