The Jack Helbig Foundation is dedicated to preventing drowning and promoting water safety through education and awareness.
DEPARTMENTS
40 BUILT ON SAND
Life’s a beach for sandcastle sculptor Terry McCarthy.
52 FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Mary Willetts Earp used her life to make a difference in Brunswick County.
58 R ADIO REBELS
The new trend of internet radio opens the door for Cape Fear Radio, a hyper-local station based in Southport and covering Southeast Brunswick County.
Under the leadership of Robert G. Marks, the Wyckoff Orchestra at Southport Trinity United Methodist Church is small-town orchestra with a big professional sound.
47 P UBSCOUT
The PubScout checks out the latest at Oak Island’s Solar Brewing.
65 NONPROFIT
The Jack Helbig Foundation is dedicated to preventing drowning and promoting water safety through education and awareness.
69 E DUCATION
Coopertition guides The Beach Botz robotics club at South Brunswick High School.
Fall 2024 Issue — Volume 2, Issue 1
CEO/PUBLISHER: Justin Williams
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER: Sandi Grigg
COPY EDITOR: Molly Harrison
CONTRIBUTING GRAPHICS:
Teresa Kramer S amantha Lowe
Elizabeth Dale Niemann
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Brian Wilner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Braelyn Anderson K urt Epps, The PubScout
K atie D Photography B eth A Klahre
M att McGraw Bill Ritenour
L eigh Roberts Jim Robertson
Z eb Starnes James Stefiuk
Brenda Torrey C asey Lauren Townsend
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
A nna Beth Adcock C arolyn Bowers
Kurt Epps, The PubScout Sandi Grigg
B eth Klahre Jo Ann Mathews
Theresa Ravencraft C ameron Rhinehardt
MARKETING INTERN: Sophie Lesanek
PUBLISHED BY: CAROLINA MARKETING COMPANY, INC.
PO Box 1361, Leland, NC 28451 (910) 207-0156 • info@lifeinbrunswickcounty.com
Reproduction or use of the contents in this magazine is prohibited.
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. SPT OKI — A Carolina Marketing Company, Inc. publication is published four times per year and is distributed to residents and businesses in the Southport Oak Island area, to subscribers and to select areas of Brunswick and New Hanover counties. Interested in back issues, subscriptions or advertising? Contact us at (910) 207-0156 or info@lifeinbrunswickcounty.com.
About the cover:
Photographer Casey Lauren Townsend captured our cover photo as part of a photo shoot for our story on the Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation. Theresa Ravencraft wrote the story, which begins on page 65.
Bye Summer, Hello Fall
WWell, I had a heck of a summer, having fun near and far.
I took full advantage of all the goodness of southeastern North Carolina, from swimming in the ocean to catching sunsets and sunrises with my daughter, Ava. Even when I was working, going along on photoshoots for our magazines and attending events in all our local beach towns, I felt like I was soaking up the best of summer.
We also traveled quite a bit. We visited nearby Charleston, South Carolina; went to see the Rolling Stones in Orlando, Florida; and attempted a Stevie Nicks concert in Hershey, Pennsylvania — only to have it postponed while we were in line.
have been busy preparing stories for this issue, and we are excited to share them with you. You’re going to meet a lot of people and learn about their community organizations and businesses, from the folks behind the new internet radio station, Cape Fear Radio, to the owner of Solar Brewing; from a sandcastle artist
While the summer was a blast, I am stoked to be getting back on a normal schedule this fall. As the tourist season winds down, I always look forward to checking back in with each of our advertising clients, hearing about their summers and their goals for the upcoming year. I also look forward to catching up with the locals at all the great fall events, from the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament to the Brunswick County Intercultural Festival to the Southport Wooden Boat Show.
Our writers and photographers
who does his work to make people happy at the beach to a local family that has transformed a personal tragedy into a program aimed at preventing drowning. As always, we tell you about upcoming events and offer some recipes for the fall season.
I hope you soaked up the best of summer too and that your fall is full of even more fun. Thanks for reading SPT OKI Magazine!
Justin Williams Owner/Publisher
Theresa Ravencraft CONTRIBUTING WRITER
I have always been a storyteller. After college I worked as a producer/director for PBS, writing scripts and editing documentaries and children’s programs. While working in television, I also taught video production courses at the high school and college level. I enjoyed teaching and as our family grew, I transitioned to managing the media center and teaching video production at our local intermediate school. My life-long passion for cooking led me to create a food blog. You can visit me at raveaboutfood.com, a place to share recipes and stories about my family and the foods we love. My husband, Brian, and I are from Ohio and have vacationed in the Carolinas for years. We purchased our dream home in Ocean Isle Beach in 2020 and have fallen in love with the community. We are enjoying the beaches, the food and the people we have met.
Cameron Rhinehardt
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
A North Carolina native, I have lived all around the state from the mountains to sea, finally landing in Raleigh at N.C. State University. After graduating in May 2023, I decided to remain in the City of Oaks while working in various creative roles, from digital media to journalism. I found my passion for journalistic writing through working at N.C. State’s student newspaper as a news and culture writer. From there, my love for it continued to skyrocket! I adore all things North Carolina, but I have a special place in my heart for the coast after spending six months living in Holden Beach (and becoming a regular at Provision Co). In my free time, I check out local breweries, travel all over the state, scope out live music or chill out with my two cats.
Zeb Starnes
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
I owned and operated my own full-service photography studio in Durham, North Carolina, for 35 years, photographing more than a thousand weddings and so much more. When I retired from my studio eight years ago, my wife, Julie, and I moved to Southport. I still enjoy being involved in photography and giving back to the community. Here in Brunswick County I am the photographer for the Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce and the Southport Historical Society and I often photograph events for New Hope Clinic, the Sea Notes and many other organizations. My wife and I are active with the Sea Notes, singing and co-chairing the publicity committee. See my work on Facebook at Zeb Starnes Creative Photography.
Dosher Memorial Hospital PT Scott Passingham and PTA Amy Millett have completed their LSVT BIG certifications. This means we can offer specialized physical therapy for patients with Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological conditions.
LSVT BIG can help patients learn to use larger movements that provide more confidence and safety. Ultimately this can improve their ability to perform activities of everyday life.
Research shows that LSVT BIG can help patients:
• Walk faster and more steadily
• Complete everyday tasks more easily
• Improve balance
• Improve posture and range of motion
Scott Passingham
Physical Therapist
Amy Millett Physical Therapist Assistant
A BOOK LOVER’S DREAM
by Carolyn Bowers
Thanks to an anonymous donation, local book lovers had a field day at a Friends of the Libraries Southport and Oak Island fundraiser.
For all book lovers within commuting distance of Southport, Murrow Hall at Trinity United Methodist Church was the Holy Grail on June 28 and 29. The Friends of the Libraries Southport and Oak Island (FOLSOI) hosted A Signature Book Sale, the largest, most unique book sale this area has ever had. | CONTINUE READING ONLINE |
THE BUSY DR. B
by Kurt Epps, a.k.a. The PubScout
Dr. Brian Lank, owner of Coastal Integrative Health in Leland and Shallotte, has just opened a third chiropractic facility, Fuel Chiropractic, in Southport.
An old maxim says that if you need something done, don’t seek out somebody who has very little to do; seek out a busy person.
If that’s true, and I suspect it is (as slothful folks rarely get anything done), then seek out a guy named Brian Lank. Dr. Brian Lank, to be precise. The Busy Dr. B. Lank has been a DC for 16 years, and during the sessions where he practices his origami skills on me, he tips me to great places to eat, drink and review.
| CONTINUE READING ONLINE |
PHOTO BY LARRY HERSHOFF
NEW CITY MANAGER
Stuart James Turille, Jr. began his role as Southport city manager on July 2.
In a vote at a Special Budget Deliberation Workshop on Friday, May 17, 2024, the Southport Board of Aldermen voted to select Stuart James Turille, Jr. to be the City of Southport’s new city manager, succeeding Bonnie Therrien after 18 months of service.
A native of Virginia, Turille will be joining the City of Southport administration team after serving as County Administrator with Pittsylvania County, Virginia. When asked about the decision to select Turille as Southport’s newest City Manager, Mayor Rich Alt stated, “The importance of a city manager is indescribable. I believe that Stuart is what Southport needs to continue making progress and I am excited that we are welcoming him to our administration.”
| CONTINUE READING ONLINE |
KICKING OFF ANOTHER YEAR
At its 49th annual meeting, Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce gathers to celebrate its members and welcome new leadership.
On June 26 Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce gathered at the Southport Community Building for its 49th Annual Meeting. This meeting serves as an opportunity for the membership to network, celebrate the success of the fiscal year and refocus for the coming year.
| CONTINUE READING ONLINE |
$1 BILLION AND COUNTING
The Brunswick County real estate market sees strong sales, higher prices and more new listings in May.
Brunswick County’s residential real estate market closed out May in strong shape, surpassing $1 billion in year-to-date sales volume in only five months. While the number of homes sold in May was down slightly compared to 2023, the total was the highest of any month so far in 2024. The market also saw higher prices and more new listings in May.
| CONTINUE READING ONLINE |
Franklin Square Gallery Announces Brunswick County High School Art Show Winners
On April 14 Franklin Square Gallery announced the winners of the 2024 Brunswick County High School Art Show, which was on display at the gallery in downtown Southport. Dozens of talented Brunswick County high school students entered their artwork in the show, which included paintings, drawings, mixed media work and sculpture. The artists received cash awards through a grant from the Brunswick Arts Council ARPA Program, a Designated County Partner of the North Carolina Arts Council.
Best in Show:
h Madelynn German of South Brunswick High School for her pen and ink drawing “Portrait of Me.”
First Place winners for 2D work:
h L iv Radovinac of North Brunswick High School for her painting, “Still Life Composition”
h Isabella Di Lembo of North Brunswick High School for her photograph, “Cyanotype”
h Braelyn Anderson of South Brunswick High School for her graphite drawing, “Bones”
First Place winner for 3D work:
h Em ilee Lake of South Brunswick High School for her polymer clay sculpture, “Bookcase”
Dosher’s Operation Medicine Cabinet Event Sees Huge Turnout
On April 10 nearly 345 households discarded 8,127 expired or unwanted narcotic pills and 611 milliliters of narcotic liquids at Dosher Memorial Hospital’s 26th semiannual Operation Medicine Cabinet. Medications collected were sorted and then transported from the hospital grounds for safe incineration. In addition to Dosher employees, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Department, members of the Brunswick Wellness Coalition,
Coastal Horizons and Southport Police were onsite to assist and to provide law enforcement. City of Northwest Police Chief David Everett observed the event workflow in anticipation of starting a drug takeback event in his part of the county. The next collection of unwanted prescription medications will be in October 2024. Check the event calendar at dosher.org for the date and time.
Brunswick County Association of REALTORS® Donates $3,000 to the Brunswick Family Assistance Summer Food Program
Brunswick County Association of REALTORS® BCAR Cares Task Force recently donated $3,000 to the Brunswick Family Assistance (BFA) Summer Food Program, supporting BFA’s mission to ensure Brunswick County youth have access to breakfast and lunch seven days a week during the 12-week summer break. Brunswick Family Assistance is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Brunswick County families and individuals in crisis by providing food, shelter, emergency assistance and educational and skills development programs. The BCAR Cares Task Force is a group of BCAR members working to create programs that all BCAR members can participate in to give back to our community. If you know of an organization that the BCAR Cares Task Force should consider supporting as a part of its Cares Program, please complete the application on BCAR’s website, bcarnc.com/home/bcar-cares/.
City of Southport Hosts Groundbreaking for Kayak Launch
On April 27 the City of Southport hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at the end of W. West Street in Southport. This event, involving City of Southport Parks & Recreation and Morningstar Marinas Southport, was a highly anticipated and exciting step towards bringing a top-of-the-line kayak launch and access to Southport. After the groundbreaking, community members were invited to Morningstar Marinas Southport at 606 W. West Street for a Community Safety Day. The City of Southport Police Department presented on golf cart safety, Morningstar Marinas Southport focused on boating safety, and representatives from Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, Atlantic Marine, Anglers Marine, J&J Boat Services and more were on hand. There was also a food truck and DJ on site and a contest was held for nautically decorated golf carts.
In July the group visited Dosher Memorial Hospital. After networking, Chef Joe prepared omelets cooked to order and the conversation turned to a more serious topic as Ava McDonald, case manager at Dosher Memorial Hospital, talked about the need at any age for living wills and a healthcare power of attorney.
Ribbon Cutting for The Beach House Motel and Suites
Coffee with the Girls
Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce’s Coffee with the Girls network, sponsored by Tink Boutique 22, provides a support system for women in business, with the group meeting at various locations around the region. In May the group visited at Hawthorne at Pine Forest on Oak Island. Attendees toured Hawthorne’s apartments and amenities including the 5,000-square-foot luxury clubhouse lounge, Starbucks Coffee Bar, Cyber Cafe, saltwater swimming pool, 24-hour fitness center, putting green, leash-free dog park and pet spa, and sports court.
In June Coffee with the Girls was held at Bald Head Coffee in Boiling Spring Lakes, where the ladies shared their favorite stress-relief techniques. Bald Head Coffee, a pickup location for Wild Faith Flower Farm, presented each attendee with an adorable wild flower arrangement.
On May 2 Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of a major renovation project at The Beach House Motel & Suites on Oak Island. A fully renovated landmark motel in the heart of Oak Island, The Beach House Motel & Suites is a comfortable, clean and affordable boutique property with 22 units, including 10 double-occupancy rooms and 12 oneand two-bedroom suites just steps away from the beach, Oak Island Pier and restaurants.
Ribbon Cutting for Island Aesthetics and Wellness
On May 3 Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Island Aesthetics and Wellness, a premier med spa and wellness provider offering anti-wrinkle Botox, lip fillers, facials, weight loss, wellness
injections/IV, microneedling, chemical peels, waxing, tanning, permanent makeup and more. They are located at 5016 E. Oak Island Drive, Suite 4 (across from Publix) on Oak Island.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Equinox Property Management LLC
On June 13 Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Cliff Pender, owner of Equinox Property Management, LLC at Cape Fear Regional Jetport. Pender was joined by family, friends and members of the business community for the ceremony. Equinox Property Management, LLC is a premier provider for discerning homeowners seeking unparallel care for their second or third homes.
GANO Jewelers Ribbon Cutting
On July 16 Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for GANO Jewelers, a veteran family-owned small business located at 8001 E. Oak Island Drive on Oak Island. GANO Jewelers owners James and Galina Gano were joined by their children, Claire and James, Jr., members of the business and Oak Island community, chamber ambassadors and chamber board members including President Brooke Rudd-Gaglie. GANO Jewelers sell all things that sparkle and shine — natural and lab-grown diamonds and a variety of stunning gemstones in unique settings. They also sell and repair watches.
Coastal
Home & Lifestyle Show and Youth Business Fair Held on Oak Island
On May 4 Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce held its Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase & Youth Business Fair in Middleton Park on Oak Island. Attendees connected with local businesses that specialize in home maintenance, outdoor living and supporting a healthy and active lifestyle.
New in 2024 was the addition of the Youth Business Fair, an opportunity for youth to showcase their entrepreneurial spirit. Bright entrepreneurs ages 9 to 17 ran their booths without adult assistance ensuring they practice skills necessary for professional and personal growth such as creative and critical thinking, math, and communication skills. To ensure success, the participants were required to attend two workshops organized by the chamber. Seven youth participated in the fair including Lily Eklund with Lily’s Lilies; Julianna Herold with Boho Babes; Emma Robinson with Emma’s Beads; Jack Gregory with Jack’s Driftwood and Design; Brandon Watkins with Brandon’s Resell & Consignment; and Elena Nichols & Desiree Thompson with Café de Paris. Awards were given to Overall Best Business – Café de Paris; Highest Business Potential – Brandon’s Resell & Consignment; Most Original – Jack’s Driftwood & Design; and Best Presentation – Emma’s Beads.
Hagood Hope for Children Foundation Donates to Brunswick Partnership for Housing
Brunswick Partnership for Housing recently received a $15,000 donation from Hagood Hope for Children, the Hagood Homes foundation. “Brunswick Partnership for
Housing is an ideal fit for the mission of Hagood Hope for Children,” Patrick Kennedy, Hagood CEO says. “For the last 20 years, our founders have had a passion for giving back. What better place to contribute than in our own backyard.” Hagood Hope for Children receives $2,000 from every home the company builds, and according to Kennedy, 90 percent of Hagood Homes are built in Brunswick County.
Coastal Cottage Celebrates Three Years of New Ownership
On May 7 Dina Rousset, owner of Coastal Cottage, held a three-year anniversary celebration in conjunction with Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce. Rousset and her daughter, Emily, purchased the art, gift and home decor shop three years ago. The shop is at 5130 SouthportSupply Road, #105 in Southport.
Chamber Announces Golden Pineapple Winners for Summer 2024
Every quarter Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce announces its Golden Pineapple Award winners. Small businesses that provide exceptional customer service are nominated by their customers. The summer 2024 winners were:
Accommodations: Better Beach Rentals & Sales, LaPolena Bed & Breakfast, Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS, Oak Island Accommodations, River Hotel
Activities, Attractions, Entertainment: NOWCAT, Throw Baxe Axe House and Board Game, Yoga Unlimited
Food and Beverage: Bald Head Coffee and Tea House, Tranquil Harbour Restaurant & Bar
Nonprofit Organizations: St. James Conservancy
Professionals: Coastline Insurance Associates of NC, Inc., Dosher Memorial Hospital, First Citizens Bank of Southport, Laurie Insurance Group, Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS, Pinnacle Mortgage Corp., River Road Animal Hospital, Southern Realty Advantage, LLC
Retail: The Apothecary at St. James, The Artisans Gallery on Howe, Dosher Memorial Hospital Flea Market, Dunes Mercantile Gifts & Guitars, GANO Jewelers, Made New Interiors & Décor, The Pearl, Tink Boutique 22, Uncorked by the Sea, Unleashed the Dog and Cat Store
Services: Beach Body Contouring & Wellness-Southport, Coastal Painting & Improvements, Cruise Planners, D. Anderson Construction, East Coast Moving, Katie D Photography – Oak Island, K Starr Coaching, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Cape Fear, River Run Pack & Ship, SEN Graphics Inc., Travel with Chy, LLC
Oak Island Installs Beach Warning Light Signs
On June 11 crews with the Town of Oak Island Public Works Department installed four new Beach Warning Lights signs. These new signs feature a fully automated wireless control system, which retrieves updates from the National Weather Service, and then displays the current Beach Warning condition on the built-in signal light. This new notification system will greatly enhance the safety and visibility provided by the robust Beach Warning Flag system already in place. With this installation, Oak Island has become the first town in the Carolinas to utilize this system. The signage was developed by SwimSmart Warning Systems of Marquette, Michigan, which has designed and installed similar systems in numerous states throughout the East Coast, West Coast and the Great Lakes regions. The signs are completely self-contained, utilizing solar options for power and onboard data receivers for information. Oak Island’s signs are the first to incorporate a purple light to indicate the risk of stinging marine life such as jellyfish or Portuguese man O’ war. The four units have been installed near heavily populated beach access locations at: Barbee Boulevard (near the Oak Island Pier); Oak Island Cabana (Middleton Park Complex); 3rd Place East (near S Middleton Avenue); and The Point (end of W. Oak Island Drive).
Island Treasure Hunt Celebrates Three Years in Business
On May 24 Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce held a Business Anniversary Ceremony to celebrate Gina DiSabato’s third year of ownership of Island Treasure Hunt Upcycled Furniture & Home Décor at 8600 E. Oak Island Drive, Suite 2 on Oak Island. Joining her were family, customers, friends and chamber board members and ambassadors.
Dosher Employees Receive Triple E Recognition
Rocky McKamey, a cook in the Dosher Dietary Department, recently received the hospital’s Employees Exceeding Excellence Triple E Award. Rocky’s nomination stated that she “consistently makes invaluable contributions to the overall wellbeing of our patients, staff and community. Rocky shows up with a smile on her face and understands that success is a team effort.” Rocky has lived in the Southport area for 25 years and has been with Dosher for the last five. When Rocky is not in the kitchen, she can be found watering the plants at the back entrance of the hospital or straightening up the outside area where employees take their breaks. Rocky enjoys her work, and this is apparent in the great pride she takes to create a positive atmosphere for patient and staff.
Lisa Hardy, a preclearance coordinator at Dosher Memorial Hospital, was also a recipient of the hospital’s Triple E Award. Hardy was recognized for going above and beyond to advocate for patients, ensuring they receive the care and medical supplies they need. Hardy is a Shallotte native and has been a Dosher team member for five years.
Dosher Triple E’s are nominated by their peers on a quarterly basis.
Chamber Distributes Tourism Counts Referral Bags
Southport Oak Island Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center showed its appreciation to local tourism professionals by delivering a bag of goodies to those members in the accommodation, restaurant and retail industries.
The chamber’s Tourism Counts Referral campaign is designed to help front-facing tourism professionals become aware of and connect with the companies and services that tourists may need when they are visiting our community.
Businesses that wanted to show their appreciation to the front-facing personnel donated items to put in the bag. They included Yoga Unlimited, Throw Baxe Axe House and Board Game Lounge, Bald Head Coffee, Gimmzi Smart Rewards, Dosher Memorial Hospital, Cattail Cottage, Southport Suzie’s, Island Healing & Chiropractic Cape Fear Fitness, This WEEK St. James, Unleashed, the Dog & Cat Store, The State Port Pilot, Picture Van Go, Carolina QuickCare, Fuel-Chiropractic, Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry, Ocean Crest Motel, Trash Can Porter, LLC, Nowcat, Swanson Realty, JMT Services, HandCrafted* Massage and The Pearl.
Dosher Physical Therapy Staff Members Earn LSVT BIG Certification
Dosher Memorial Hospital Physical Therapist Scott Passingham and Physical Therapy Assistant Amy Millett recently completed LSVT BIG certifications, an effective movement treatment for people with Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological conditions. Scientifically studied for more than 25 years, BIG trains patients to increase the size (amplitude) of their movements from head to toe and helps people recalibrate to recognize when their movements are smaller or slower than what they may think. The treatment addresses walking, balance and other dailylife activities and is designed to enable the progress of lifelong habits. Passingham is the manager of the Dosher Therapy Team and has been with the hospital for 18 years. He possesses a master’s of physical therapy from East Carolina University. Millett, who has been with Dosher for five years, obtained an associate’s degree in Physical Therapy Assistant from South College in Knoxville, Tennessee.
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U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament
October 3 to 5
Forty-five years ago a group of community leaders decided they needed an event to showcase the great fall fishing of the Southport-Oak Island area. The prizes and expenses for the first tournament were guaranteed by those community leaders signing a promissory note at a local financial institution, and the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament was born. Now an annual event, it attracts more than 400 boats of all sizes and is held in high esteem by the community and anglers. This multiple-day fishing tournament is held at Dutchman Creek Park in Southport.
Information: usopenkmt.com
Brunswick County Intercultural Festival
October 12
A day of music, dance, food and art, Brunswick County Intercultural Festival brings the world to Brunswick County. All ages will enjoy learning about the world’s cultures in the International Village and enjoy crafts and food from around the world. The event is held at Brunswick Riverwalk Park in Belville on October 12 starting at 11 am.
Information: bcifestival.org
Oak Island Witches Ride
October 26
Last year more than 500 witches rode through the streets on brooms, by way of bicycles, to raise money for the Oak Island Water Rescue. The fourth annual event, scheduled for October 26 from noon to 5 pm, is planned to be even bigger and better.
Information: facebook.com/events/678078974310475/
Classic Cars’n Rock’n Roll Car and Truck Show
October 26
Cape Fear Cruisers’ 10th annual Classic Cars’n Rock’n Roll Car and Truck Show returns to Howe and Bay streets in Downtown Southport for a fun pre-Halloween weekend. All makes and models of cars and trucks are welcome, and there will be prizes for the best Halloweendecorated vehicles. Registration is from 8:30 to 11 am, with awards given at 3 pm. Proceeds benefit local charities.
The Southport Wooden Boat Show is an integral part of Southport’s maritime heritage and the region’s boatbuilding history. One of the town’s largest events of the year, the boat show features boats displayed on land and in the water, and there are tours, educational offerings, nautical vendors, food, raffles, music and more. Information: southportwoodenboatshow.com
St. James Artisans Association
Holiday Boutique
November 8 & 9
Stock up on holiday gifts at the St. James Artisans Association Holiday Boutique. The shopping extravaganza will be held from 9 am to 4 pm on both Friday and Saturday at the St. James Community Center, 4136 Southport-Supply Road SE in St. James. Information: artisansgalleryonhowe.com
Endless Summer Bonfire Bash
November 21
The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to a casual evening by the shore. Join them at Lazy Turtle Bar & Grill, 601 Ocean Drive on Oak Island, as they celebrate the community businesses that make our area special. This event will be held from 5 to 8 pm.
Mix up martini night with sake instead of vermouth.
BY SANDI GRIGG
Whether you like a gin martini or a vodka martini, substituting sake for vermouth will create a delightful twist on the traditional cocktail.
Sake, often referred to as Japanese rice wine, is the heart of this Saketini recipe. I prefer to use clear, filtered and fruity sake as the main ingredient; however, sake also comes cloudy, unfiltered and floral. The unfiltered sake tends to be more potent and, in my opinion, less pleasing in a martini.
Years ago my spouse and I went on a date to a sushi restaurant where we wanted to order sake for the first time. The waitress explained the difference between filtered and unfiltered sake and went on to explain that the filtered
is best in a martini. She is the one who gave me the idea to toy with a martini recipe using sake, and I am glad she did.
We ordered a flight of sake and sipped the different types while searing various cuts of meat on a hot rock. I much preferred the smooth, sweet flavors of the filtered sake over the thick, strong flavors of the unfiltered sake.
Fresh, cool cucumber is my favorite garnish for this Saketini. If you can find Japanese cucumber, it is best. The melon-like taste of a Japanese cucumber goes great with the sake. Japanese cucumbers are not always easy to find, but a traditional or English cucumber works well also.
If you love martinis and aren’t afraid to try new things, this is a great recipe for you. Paired with homemade eggrolls or sushi, it is perfect for date night.
SAKETINI
Makes 1 drink
INGREDIENTS
Chilled martini glass
2 ounces filtered, high-quality sake
1½ ounces gin or vodka
Cucumber slice threaded onto a stir stick
METHOD
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in the sake and vodka or gin.
Shake for 30 seconds.
Pour into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a stir stick threaded with a cucumber slice.
WHAT’S COOKIN’ WITH SOUTHERN SANDI
Crispy Perfection
Wrap up dinner with homemade Vietnamese egg rolls.
BY SANDI GRIGG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES STEFIUK
My spouse is a teacher and has a co-worker who makes and sells egg rolls as her side hustle. She brings them pre-boxed to the school on the last Friday of each month. One Friday evening, when I was not in the mood to cook, I ordered a dozen egg rolls from her. I brought them home and simply warmed them up. They were excellent, and I told her I had to have the recipe.
She said this recipe had been in her family for many generations. She provided the basic ingredients and gave me a few tips on cooking them, and I was left to improvise the rest of the recipe. It took a few trial and error attempts, but this version is very close to her deliciously crunchy egg rolls.
One thing I learned is that you need enough oil in the pan so that the egg rolls do not touch the pan. If the egg rolls can swim around in the oil they are more likely to cook evenly. Another of her secrets: Vinegar added to the oil helps make them extra crispy.
Unlike with most fried dishes, when cooking egg rolls, the oil temperature should be lower so that the raw mixture is thoroughly cooked and the wrappers reach golden perfection. If the temperature is too high, you risk burning the wrapper and not cooking the meat thoroughly.
I used canola oil because it is tasteless and healthier than vegetable or corn oil. Don’t use olive oil because it has a different heating point and isn’t as effective for deep-frying. Olive oil also pops out of the pan and makes a huge mess.
You can certainly purchase a bottle of sweet-n-sour sauce or peanut sauce for dipping, but I had all the ingredients to make my own sweet soy dipping sauce and I have shared it with you.
The ingredients I have in this recipe mimic the version from my spouse’s co-worker; however, you can substitute or omit any ingredients you wish. If you prefer cabbage to noodles or mushrooms to onion, you are certainly welcome to play with your ingredients. I hope you enjoy this as much as we did!
Pro tips!
Tip #1: When frying, make sure you have enough oil so the egg rolls don’t touch the pan.
Tip #2: Adding vinegar to the oil helps make the egg rolls extra crispy.
Have a recipe request for Southern Sandi? Shoot a message to sandi@lifeinbrunswickcounty.com
VIETNAMESE EGG ROLLS
Makes 24 egg rolls
INGREDIENTS
1 package egg roll wrappers (in the refrigerated section)
For the Filling:
1 small pack (2 ounces) of bean thread vermicelli glass noodles –soaked and drained
1 lb. ground pork
1 lb. shrimp, ground in a food processor
1 onion, minced
2 carrots, grated
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
To Fry:
Canola oil (enough to fully submerge the rolls so they don’t touch the bottom of the pan)
2 teaspoons of white vinegar
For the Dipping Sauce:
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Few drops of sesame oil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Garnish:
Chopped green onions and lettuce leaves
METHOD
For the Egg Rolls:
Mix the filling ingredients together in a bowl. Roll the eggrolls by spooning a portion of the filling in the corner of the wrapper. Fold over the edge and tuck it tightly around the mixture and noodles. Fold in the side corners and roll it until you reach the opposite side. Dab a bit of water on that edge and seal.
Fill a wok or frying pan with several inches of oil and add the vinegar. Heat the oil and vinegar mixture to medium (just hot enough that a flick of water will sizzle in the pan).
Carefully lower the egg rolls into the hot oil. Do this in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry each roll until golden brown, about 5 to 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels or brown paper bags.
For the Dipping Sauce:
Whisk all the ingredients together.
Serve:
Serve the egg rolls warm on a bed of lettuce leaves. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and a small dish of the dipping sauce.
The Biggest Little Orchestra
Under the leadership of Robert G. Marks, the Wyckoff Orchestra at Southport Trinity United Methodist Church is small-town orchestra with a big professional sound.
BY BETH A. KLAHRE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BETH A. KLAHRE & JIM ROBERTSON
TTwenty years ago members at Trinity United Methodist Church in Southport and students from South Brunswick Middle and South Brunswick High schools came together to play music for services. They had no idea it would end up where it is today.
The church had established a praise band but had no ensemble for classical musicians. Diane Kulp, choir and handbell director, and Ben Edwards, South Brunswick Middle School band director and church member, collaborated to establish a true orchestra. The
group started with a limited set of hymns for flutes, clarinets, trumpet, trombone, tuba, euphonium, drums, sax and string bass.
“It was a joy to have generations sharing their love of music together,” says Edwards, who became the first orchestra director. Laura Furpless Hutchinson followed Edwards as the second director.
Peter Wyckoff was a member of the church choir for 14 years. He was well-known in Southport and played tuba. When he passed in 2006, his wife, Beverly, made a donation to
The orchestra consists of 14 volunteers and up to 17 paid semiprofessional and professional musicians ranging in age from teens to 80s and hailing from Southport to Myrtle Beach.
PHOTO BY JIM
PHOTO BY BETH A. KLAHRE
purchase orchestral arrangements of hymns compatible with the Methodist hymnal. Since it was such a significant gift, it was only appropriate to name the group the Wyckoff Orchestra.
In 2015 Robert G. “Bob” Marks became the director.
“The orchestra really took off with Bob,” says Ellen Dorsett, violinist, bass player and one of the founding members. “Bob brought the skills to do so.”
Wyckoff Orchestra members play violin, viola, harp, cello and bass, piccolo, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, French horn, trombone, tuba and percussion including snare, bass and timpani drums, chimes, glockenspiel and cymbals.
Marks holds a bachelor of music education from Heidelberg University and master of arts in education from Muskingum University. After 30 years in public school education and seven more at the university level, Marks found the job he always wanted — an established church music program with multiple ensembles.
“After the interview, everything felt right,” Marks says. “The clincher was walking into the empty sanctuary, overwhelmed by a feeling of love. God most certainly saved the best for last as far as my career goes.”
The orchestra consists of 14 volunteers and up to 17 paid semi-professional and professional musicians. Ranging in age from teens to 80s, the musicians hail from Southport, Oak Island, Wilmington, Leland, Rocky Point, Bolivia, Hampstead, Winnabow and Myrtle Beach. They play violin, viola, harp, cello and bass, piccolo, flute, oboe, clarinet and
bassoon, trumpet, French horn, trombone, tuba and percussion including snare, bass and timpani drums, chimes, glockenspiel and cymbals.
The orchestra practices on Sunday evenings from September through June for performances twice each season at regular worship services and joins the Sanctuary Choir for Christmas and Lenten cantatas. Music includes hymns, classical, romantic, Americana and contemporary music from well-known classical composers like Bach, Mozart,
PHOTO BY JIM ROBERTSON
PHOTO BY BETH A. KLAHRE
PHOTO BY BETH A. KLAHRE
Sousa and Gershwin.
In addition to Dorsett, two additional founding members are still playing with the orchestra. Julie Sloup plays flute and piccolo. She also plays with the Brunswick Winds Concert Band, for Holden Beach Chapel concerts and with small groups throughout Brunswick County.
“I enjoy playing cantatas at Christmas and Easter the most,” she says. “I’ll be playing as long as my fingers still function.”
John Kelso plays clarinet. “I chose the clarinet in sixth grade after listening to CDs of Benny Goodman’s jazz band. I really wasn’t interested in playing jazz. I just wanted to play the clarinet as well as Goodman.”
Kelso’s enjoyment goes beyond the score. “It’s most fun to play music with others. It’s also great fellowship,” he says. “You can maintain the ability to play an instrument long after you lose the physical ability to play a sport, for me, golf and tennis, at a highly competitive level. This is important in life.”
Dorsett, who has played violin for 67 years and string bass for 66 and is in many local bands including her own Dixieland band, has helped recruit musicians. At a chance meeting in the grocery store, Dorsett invited Carolyn Mitchem,
READY FOR AN ENCORE?
Want to join the Wyckoff Orchestra?
You do not have to be a member of Trinity United Methodist Church to participate in the orchestra, but you should:
h Have your own orchestral instrument
h Play at or above an advanced high school level
h Be able to attend most rehearsals
Contact Bob Marks k rmarks1107@gmail.com
cellist, to join.
“I started playing when I turned 9. It was my birthday present. I had been begging for a year,” Mitchem says. “I decided to join Wyckoff because I wanted to play with a group. We don’t have many groups, especially for cello, without driving to Wilmington.”
Trumpeters Matthew Ballard and Jake Egan are the youngest musicians. Recruited by Dorsett, both are recent graduates of South Brunswick High School.
“We’ve had a blast,” Egan says. He will attend North Carolina State University to study civil engineering and intends to participate in both
PHOTO
PHOTO
the marching and jazz bands.
Ballard will attend East Carolina University to study music education.
“The orchestra has been an amazing experience,” he says. “I never know how far it may take me.” Ballard plans to play with the Marching Pirates, the orchestra and the jazz ensemble.
Violinist Cheryl Riker from Boiling Spring Lakes took her first violin lesson at age 4.
“I played violin duets in church and with various groups with my dad in trios and quartets at our house,” Riker says. “When my parents passed, I couldn’t bring myself to play anymore.” She read about the orchestra in the newspaper. “My biggest challenge in joining Wyckoff has been to hold back the tears. Memories carry me through. I will play until my last breath.”
Bruce Lull, member since 2012, has been playing trombone for 70 years, starting in fourth grade.
“Pure instrumental is my favorite,” Lull says. “I can play louder.” Lull also plays with the Brunswick Big Band, Concert Band and occasionally with Stardusters Big Band.
“Remembering the fingerings to some of the music is challenging,” says bassoonist Elaine MorrisMoxness. But she quickly adds, “I’ll play pretty much until I can’t.”
Marks has cultivated this little town orchestra into its big professional sound.
“Together we built what is The Wyckoff Orchestra,” Marks says. “You see, this is their group, and they have the ownership. I’m just a musical guide.”
No doubt, Mr. Wyckoff would be proud.
LIFE’S A BEACH FOR SANDCASTLE SCULPTOR TERRY MCCARTHY, WHO FINDS JOY IN AN ART THAT IS
Proving you can never age out of unlocking a new passion, 62-year-old Terry
McCarthy began crafting sandcastles as a casual hobby to keep busy during beach days while his wife, Aimee, was immersed in reading. After Aimee gifted him a few introductory sandcastle-building tools and he started watching YouTube videos to hone his skills, McCarthy’s amateur sand art side hustle began to take off.
“I just really picked it up for some reason,” he says.
Flash forward a few years and the sandcastle sculptor has amassed a bit of recognition locally and online for his beautifully ornate and temporary creations.
A quick peek into his garage reveals an array of tools and buckets, not to mention spoons,
BY ANNA BETH ADCOCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA TORREY
Terry McCarthy working on a sandcastle on Caswell Beach while his wife, Aimee, immerses herself in a good book.
Terry McCarthy working on a sandcastle on Caswell Beach while his wife, Aimee, immerses herself in a good book.
putty knives and “anything he could find,” that might prove handy toward his unique artistic medium.
“I use lots of garbage cans and smaller buckets, and my toolbox is pretty much full now,” he says. That said, McCarthy showcases his growth in the sand art realm via his tool collection, saying he has gone from eight to 10
tools to around 50 now, give or take.
Many of his unique works can be seen on his Instagram page. McCarthy makes pieces that nod to sea turtle season, holidays, birthdays, well-known characters (hey, Mario!) and more.
While he has competed in the Oak Island Beach Day competition before, McCarthy currently keeps his creations casual and for his
It takes hard work and patience, but McCarthy says sandcastle building is a fun and very therapeutic hobby.
family and the public to appreciate in the moment.
“I enjoy it, and I’ll do it as long as I enjoy it,” he says. “And when I don’t [enjoy it], I won’t do it anymore.”
To build on his skills, McCarthy made an educational trip down to Destin, Florida, earlier this year to learn from “Dan In the Sand,” one of the sandcastle creators he initially learned from online. With Dan he cultivated his ability to pack the sand and build objects up to 6 feet tall without collapsing. Beyond Dan In The Sand, McCarthy nods to Sand Castle University and Texas-based
Andy Hancock as two sculptors he learned from online.
McCarthy typically works on his castles on Saturdays or Sundays at Caswell Beach near the Caswell Dunes (about a mile away from the pier). Passersby are welcome to pause for a pitstop to say hello.
“I can typically make a sandcastle in two and a half to three hours but with stopping and talking, I’ll probably be out there for five to six hours,” he says, adding that he enjoys the social aspect of his sandsculpting time. He likes meeting people and offering kids pointers on
1 \ You can never have enough water.
2 \ Patience is key.
3 \ Always work from the top down.
4 \ Use buckets with no bottom to compact sand and build in layers.
5 \ Use a pencil and blow excess sand with a straw for detail work.
6 \ Build a solid base before carving or drawing.
7 \ Mistakes are OK — the sandcastle will come down eventually no matter what.
8 \ Have fun and remember there is no right or wrong.It’s art!
SEE THE
Sand-Sational
ART
Peep McCarthy’s Instagram @southernsandcastles or take a stroll along Caswell Beach during the weekend. You might just stumble across one of the most ornate sandcastles you’ve ever seen.
Terry and his wife, Aimee, on Caswell Beach.
PHOTO BY BRENDA TORREY
their own sandy masterpieces.
“It’s unbelievable the number of people I’ve met,” McCarthy says. “It brings smiles to people as they go by. It’s amazing.”
He points out that another local artist in town will come out to draw and paint his sandcastles and that once a photographer snapped a photo of her drawing of the sandcastle. In essence, art inspires more art. “I’m curious how many pictures are taken of some of the castles,” McCarthy says.
Continuing to cultivate his skills, the sand artist makes sand architecture so stable that it can
Let the Sun Shine on OKI
The PubScout checks out the latest at Oak Island’s Solar Brewing.
BY KURT EPPS, THE PUBSCOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEIGH ROBERTS
MMike Bartlett, brewer/ owner of Solar Brewing on Oak Island, is nothing if not wildly passionate about beer. That passion shines through whenever he discusses his mission to make the absolute best beer he can.
“I’m not there yet,” allows his harshest critic, “but I’m definitely getting there.”
The PubScout would concur, if what I tasted recently of his efforts is any indication of his progress. What’s more, he wants all of Oak Island — and elsewhere — to join him on his journey.
Mike makes an astounding variety of styles, ranging from an exceptional transitional light lager to a maple syrup/bourbon barrelaged Russian imperial Stout that should knock
Mike Bartlett, brewer and owner of Solar Brewing, crafts an astounding variety of beer styles.
I’m looking to build a wholesome place that appeals to many levels of customers — from families to budding Cicerones. “
the socks off any devoteés of the style. In fact, clocking in at 11.3%, it might be wise to pick up a crowler to take home and consume in your stocking feet.
And his business on 8108 E. Oak Island Drive is also committed to fulfilling his quest. “I want a warm and welcoming environment for people to enjoy the multiculturalism of beer.”
On the day of my visit, Mike was working on what was eventually going to be a Märzen for
Oktoberfest, but at the moment was a rather incredible 8.5% Doppelbock. He promised he would get it down to a more celebratory, sessionable O-fest bier that would ring in at about 5.9%. O’Zapft is!
While Mike desires and challenges his clientele to become more beer-knowledgeable, he admits that the food side of his
business is currently contributing in a big way to put Solar Brewing on the map. His kitchen is run by Tommy Joe Jackson, who gets as excited about food as Mike does about beer.
Tommy had a pizza on special that day that was called Berry Breeze, a creation that combined olive oil, a honey base, goat cheese, local blueberries, arugula and citrus. The missus made me promise we’d return to get one, since she had already ordered something called Pesto Pinwheels. She declared them to be delicious, and they arrived in a portion that had her request a doggie bag. And we don’t have a dog.
“Our pizza and wings are
Creativity is always on the menu at Solar Brewing, from seasonal brews to specialty pizzas to a recent favorite special, thick-cut spiral fries topped with beer cheese.
becoming pretty famous in the area,” Mike shares. “I’m looking to build a wholesome place that appeals to many levels of customers — from families to budding Cicerones.” Those are folks whose palates are precisely trained to detect various flavors — including off ones — in beer. Mike himself is a Certified Beer Server, the first step in the process.
But, pointing to his tongue and palate, he asserts, “This is all I need to tell me where I want my own beers to be.”
The missus loved her light lager, and my initial Sherril IPA was not the West Coast IPA I expected, but the more I tasted it, the more I liked it. And it perfectly accompanied my giant, scrumptious beer pretzel and beer cheese.
As we talked about what Mike does, he brought over a sample of something called Jimmy Buffet’s Prickly Parrot, a 6%, red fruit beer that was absolutely outstanding.
That it contained prickly pear but no hops whatsoever was pleasantly surprising as well. So enamored of it was I that I contacted Brittany, my local bar manager in OIB, and suggested she order some for our local pub. To her credit, she sometimes listens to me.
But that 11.3% Russian Imperial Stout was killer. I would have loved a pint, but sometimes discretion is the better part of valor. I wanted to live to drink another day.
Which, after having visited Mike at Solar, I will.
From Humble Beginnings to
Mary Willetts Earp used her life to make a difference in Brunswick County.
BY JO ANN MATHEWS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT MCGRAW
Mary Willetts Earp (pronounced Arp) relaxes at the table and chairs on the back porch of her Winnabow home with oak trees, shrubs and a variety of flowers surrounding it. Her vivid blue eyes are alert to indicate she is ready to talk.
Without any prompting she says, “I’m 87 years old and proud of it.”
This Brunswick County native has reason to be pleased with her accomplishments. She was the youngest of five on a subsistence farm.
“Growing up on a farm, you learn that life was easier somewhere else,” she says.
In the ’50s when most women chose marriage and children, Earp accepted a scholarship to East Carolina University after graduating from the former Bolivia High School.
“I got an education so if I had to look after myself I could,” she says.
With a major in home economics, she taught two years at Grifton High School in Pitt County before marrying Wilbur Earp, who also graduated from Bolivia High School. He earned his degree in animal industry from
North Carolina State University and operated the Earps’ family farm, known as Funston Farm.
“I always said I wasn’t going to marry a farmer, but I did,” Earp says.
Wilbur raised cattle and crops and developed innovative ways to raise the pigs on the farm. He increased the farm’s acreage by purchasing Willetts and Swain farmland lost during the Great Depression. To earn extra income, Earp taught home economics and earth science in New Hanover County. When Brunswick County wanted to hire two social workers, Earp was chosen to be one of them. Two years later she became a North Carolina Extension Service home agent.
The couple were a perfect fit to instill the importance of farming in the younger generation so they sponsored Agriculture
Eighty-seven-year-old Brunswick County native Mary Earp on her family farm in Winnabow.
Days on the Farm for local third graders.
“We had stations set up under the trees,” Earp says. One station was for farm equipment, another for recycling, another for crops, another emphasized the cost of farming. The fifth was a wagon with hay that drove the children around the farm. The program lasted 45 years until COVID hit.
Earp’s expertise became well known, and in the ’80s she became the first woman selected for the N.C. Agribusiness Council. The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture chose her to participate in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farmer-to-Farmer tours, and she was one of 15 people selected to travel to Europe and South America as a representative of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The one wish Earp has not fulfilled is to visit Switzerland. She recalls the vivid pictures of the Alps in her fifth-grade geography book and envisioned seeing them in person. “I still want to see the Alps,” she says. “I might. You never know.”
A wish Earp did fulfill in 2007 was to found Brunswick Pink Angels. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, her physician provided her with a tote bag filled with comfort items. She learned that not every Brunswick County resident with breast cancer received such a bag, so she formed the group to do just that. The program no longer exists, but she
LEADERSHIP ROLES & AWARDS
LEADERSHIP ROLES
Board of Directors for the N.C. Agribusiness Council, the first woman on the board
Member of the Governor’s Agriculture, Forestry and Seafood Advisory Committee
Brunswick County Cooperative Extension Advisory Board
NCSU State Cooperative Extension Advisory Board
Brunswick Community College Advisory Board for Small Business Center
Brunswick Community College Aquiculture program
Brunswick County Voluntary District Board of Director
Member of Brunswick County Swine Producers Association
Member of Southeastern Swine Producers Associations
Elected member for 17 years of the Brunswick County Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors
Chair of Area 6, District Supervisors of the Soil and Water Conservation District
Brunswick County Board of Health
Board of directors for Brunswick Senior Resources, Inc., one of the first chosen when established in 2002, elected chair for two terms
Founded Brunswick Pink Angels in 2007, a group that presents a comfort bag to women diagnosed with breast cancer
AWARDS
N.C. Cooperative Extension Service chose her as an Outstanding Woman in Agriculture
Outstanding Woman Leader in Brunswick County
Brunswick County Governor’s Distinguished Volunteer Award
N.C. Pork Council Hall of Fame with Wilbur. “The only hands-on farmers elected,” Mary says.
Order of the Long Leaf Pine, presented by the governor to a person with extraordinary service to the state
USDA Secretary of Agriculture chose her twice to participate in the USDA Farmer to Farmer Tours: 1983 tour to the European Common Market countries; 1990 tour to Argentina and Brazil. Only 15 people across the United States were chosen for these tours.
In 2022 chosen Incredible East Carolina University Woman, after the field was narrowed to 12 women
In 2023 chosen East Carolina University Alumna of the Year by unanimous choice
“Brunswick County has prospered because of her. She is a to the residents...”
says, “I’m very grateful to have had the energy and the time to do it.”
Earp’s bout with cancer returned in 2022 when she was diagnosed with colon cancer, five weeks after Wilbur passed away. The couple had been married 61 years.
“I had a hard time, and I’m not embarrassed to say so,” she says. “I’m in good health now.”
Brunswick County residents can thank Earp for being instrumental in having senior centers open in 2002 and the ECU School of Dental Medicine open in Supply in 2016.
“If it hadn’t been for her, we
wouldn’t have the Brunswick Senior Resources,” says Phillip Ricks, retired director of Brunswick County Cooperative Extension. “She helped establish the East Carolina University dental school in Supply. Brunswick County has prospered because of her. She is a valuable asset to the residents of Brunswick County.”
Aside from these achievements, Earp is most proud of her two sons, Dennis, 63, retired from Duke Energy; Jeff, 60, onsite manager at Brunswick Forest; her daughters-in-law, five grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren.
She’s also proud of the farm.
“It was not always easy, but we made it a success,” she says.
The Earps have a contract with Smithfield Foods to raise the hundreds of pigs on the farm, which also consists of 300 cows and acreage in Brunswick and Columbus counties.
Family members live nearby, and great-niece Luray Carroll of Riegelwood credits Earp for helping her with her plants.
“She’s given me advice on many things and wonderful advice on how to grow my plants,” Carroll says. “She
has a green thumb.”
“I always had a garden of my own,” Earp adds. Her vegetable garden includes collards, turnips, broccoli, green beans, tomatoes, okra, peppers and basil.
Mary says that helping people is just part of her legacy.
“People helped me, and I’ve tried to help people along the way,” she says. “I haven’t done all these things for glory. I wanted to make this a better place for people to live, and North Carolina a better place for people to come to.”
the intracoastal waterway at South Harbour Village. Joseph’s offers delicious Italian Cuisine and a comprehensive array of premier wine and spirits.
RADIORebels
The new trend of internet radio opens the door for Cape Fear Radio, a hyper-local station based in Southport and covering Southeast Brunswick County.
BY CAMERON RHINEHARDT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT MCGRAW
BY LOCAL, FOR LOCAL, ABOUT LOCAL
— that’s what Cape Fear Radio is all about. Launched in June 2024, the new station showcases community news, music and events.
With so much going on in the music and art worlds, in addition to the area’s explosive growth, a handful of people familiar with southeast Brunswick County decided it was time to shine the spotlight on their community. Cape Fear Radio (CFR) serves the communities of Southport, Oak Island, Caswell Beach, St. James, Boiling Spring Lakes, Bald Head Island and beyond.
Part of the team at Cape Fear Radio, left to right, Daniel Guetschow (aka Rev), Morgan Harper, John McIver, Debbie Little, Mary Galligan and Randy Till.
THE OVERARCHING GOAL OF CFR IS TO UNIFY THE COMMUNITY.
Through news, entertainment, public service announcements and features, locals can find new ways to become involved in everything going on around them.
“Our hope is to inform and
entertain,” says CFR co-founder, newscaster and board of directors member Russ Yarrow. “We all love music and the community, so we said ‘Let’s see what we can do.’”
The response from the community since the June launch has been strong. CFR was asked to broadcast live for three days on the main stage at the 4th of July Festival, Southport’s
biggest bash of the year. The station has partnered with the State Port Pilot in downtown Southport, where it has its studios, and has already welcomed several founding sponsors, including Dosher Memorial Hospital.
This station is far from traditional. Rather than broadcasting via traditional FM radio, CFR is completely internet-based and can be
accessed through their app, smart speakers like Alexa or their CFR website.
The station features local bands such as LunaSea, The Salty Dawgs and more. Yarrow refers to southeast Brunswick County as the “saloon band capital of southeastern Carolina,” and CFR is excited to offer another way to get local music the attention it deserves.
But the backbone of the station’s music catalog is an extensive curated list of a wide variety of music from
the 60s through contemporary styles, all presented by a growing roster of talented and eclectic presenters 24/7.
Cape Fear Radio also will be using the station to provide various profiles on members of the community and events.
“We’re excited to bring the community to life through features on healthcare, local businesses and restaurants and bring more news and information to people who live here,” Yarrow says. “Radio brings forward the power of the voice. When you
Clockwise from left: Rev at the mic; Randy Till and Mary Galligan at the controls; John McIver in the Cape Fear Radio Studio overlooking E. Moore Street in Southport.
hear people speak, it’s a very engaging way to respond to information.”
Radio is a media platform experiencing rapid growth, considering the internet has made access to it incredibly easy. Cape Fear Radio is honing in on this to ensure southeast Brunswick County communities have an easy and entertaining way to engage with their members.
“We like to describe Cape Fear Radio as radio of the people, by the people and for the people,” said Chris Cadman, a St. James resident and one of the station’s founders. “We are focused exclusively on the local area, staffed by volunteers and promoting local artists, events and businesses.”
CFR is also a registered nonprofit dedicated to serving other
nonprofits in the local communities. Through the radio’s Community Investment Initiative, money raised through affordable advertising rates will be donated to local nonprofits like hunger relief, youth causes, arts councils and more. The station will also bring awareness to local businesses by offering them creative ways to market locally.
“We think The Cape provides an exciting new advertising platform for businesses in the area, and our Community Investment Initiative will direct revenue over and above our operating costs into making our communities stronger and more resilient,” Sales Manager Randy Till says.
Many residents feel the time is perfect for a project like this. John McIver, a cofounder of Cape Fear Radio, is confident in the timing and the ways that CFR can serve and connect to the community.
“This area of Brunswick County is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country,”
Left: With Cape Fear Radio, Morgan Harper, publisher of State Port Pilot, is fulfilling a wish of her father, the late Ed Harper. When the senior Harper was the paper’s publisher, he dreamed of running a radio station out of the Pilot’s building. Now that dream has come true. Above: Mary Galligan and John McIver
LISTEN NOW
Scan the QR code below with your phone camera to be taken directly to Cape Fear Radio.
K capefearradio.com (Click Listen Now)
z Smart Speakers
(Ask Amazon Alexa to “enable Cape Fear Radio” then say “Play Cape Fear Radio”)
# Cape Fear Radio App
(It’s free to download the Cape Fear Radio app on your phone and listen through your phone.)
McIver says. “A new media platform like Cape Fear Radio can help to inform and unify the area as it faces the challenges and benefits of rapid growth.”
CFR board of directors member Mary Galligan, a retiree from Johnson & Johnson and a St. James resident, has a passion for local arts and the local music scene, which led her to take part in the CFR venture.
“There are so many interesting stories and people in this area,” Galligan says. “We think Cape Fear Radio is a powerful complement to local print media, providing residents of the Lower Cape Fear area with music to entertain, news to inform and a deeper understanding of the communities where we live.”
Keep Them Safe
The Jack Helbig Foundation is dedicated to preventing drowning and promoting water safety through education and awareness.
BY THERESA RAVENCRAFT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASEY LAUREN TOWNSEND
W“We thought we were the best parents we could be, and yet there were things we didn’t know,” Kelly Helbig says. “Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 years old. I didn’t know that fact until we were that fact.”
For the summer of 2010 Kelly and Justin Helbig rented a lake house in Boiling Spring Lakes with their three children, ages 7, 4 and 2 years old. They were protective parents and careful in the lake, always making the children wear their life vests and only allowing them in the water with an adult.
Jack, their 4-year-old son, loved jumping to Daddy in the lake, who would catch his children and guide them as they paddled to the ladder
Kelly and Justin Helbig and their youngest son, Miles, giving away life vests and drowning prevention information at Boiling Spring Lakes Community Center in April 2024.
and climbed back on the dock. This was a fun family activity that was supervised and meant to be good practice for the children before taking swim lessons later that summer.
“I naively assumed that because we didn’t let them out of our sight that our vigilance would keep them safe,” Kelly says.
WATER SAFETY IS CRITICAL
To learn more about water safety, donate or participate in events call or visit the Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation
Q @swim4jack learn learn
m 910-477-0837
K E jackhelbig.org
On a gorgeous day, the first day of summer vacation in June, the children’s grandparents came to visit.
“My husband was golfing, and I was watering plants and doing chores around the house,” Kelly remembers. “Jack asked me if he and his siblings could swim with his grandparents.”
After playing in the lake, a grandparent brought the children inside to get dry clothes. When they came downstairs, there were only two kids. Kelly began
Through its Brunswick School of Fish program, Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation provides scholarships for swim lessons at the Dinah E. Gore Sports and Aquatics Complex at Brunswick Community College in Bolivia.
searching for her son.
“We thought he was playing in the house and my mind started racing, ‘Where could Jack be?’” Kelly says. “It never entered my mind that Jack would go to the lake without an adult.”
Jack’s grandfather checked the lake, where he found Jack and performed CPR, without success, until EMS arrived.
“In those precious first minutes when a child is missing, the water is always the first place you should look,” Kelly says. “Every second counts.”
Following this tragedy the Helbig family established the
Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation (JHMF) and has been devoted to promoting water safety through education and awareness ever since.
“We knew we had to honor Jack in some way,” Kelly says. “We knew we had to give back the love that we received from the community and we wanted to educate parents.”
JHMF has implemented programs that teach parents and children about water safety. They visit classrooms and small groups to read and distribute storybooks on water safety. Their Water Safety in Schools program gives students free books that they can share with their family, thus spreading vital information on drowning prevention.
“Once that book goes home and is shared with the family, we are seeking to educate a whole generation on how to stay safe around the water,” Kelly says.
The Helbig Foundation has also partnered with the Dinah E. Gore Sports and Aquatic Complex at Brunswick Community College to provide swim scholarships through the Brunswick School of Fish program.
access points.
“We don’t want to encourage an untrained person to rescue someone,” Kelly says. “But when we look at the data that is available, bystanders don’t wait. If they are going in the water, we want them to have the equipment so both make it back to shore.”
When parents take their children near the water, there are water safety tips that the Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation emphasizes.
“Above all, it’s important to know the ABCs of water safety,” Kelly says.
She stresses that water barriers are extremely important. “You don’t want children to have access to the water,”
“We award swim scholarships to families in the county, and the amazing swim instructors at the aquatic center teach the lessons,” Kelly says. “We give priority to families who have financial difficulties. We want every child to be able to learn to swim.”
In 2022, after four ocean fatalities, JHMF worked with the Town of Oak Island and Oak Island Water Rescue on an Ocean Safety Program that was designed to provide water safety stations along the beach. These stations provide a rescue tube flotation buoy and educational sign at all public beach
Kelly says. “There are gaps where a child can get away unnoticed, and it only takes seconds to lose a child.”
The ultimate goal is to prevent drowning through education and awareness.
“We couldn’t do it without a strong, passionate board of directors,” Kelly says. “And our community partners are so important. We are successful because of everyone working together to prevent drowning.”
ABCs ABCs of Water Safety of Water Safety
Active Adult Supervision
Having a water guardian within arm’s reach for babies, toddlers and weak swimmers is necessary.
Keeping little ones away from the water Barriers, like fencing and gates, prevent unauthorized and unsupervised access to water.
Swim Lessons
All children and adults should learn to swim.
Adults and teens should learn CPR.
Wearing Life Vests
Life Vests should be worn by all boaters and are recommended for swimmers in open water.
Mandy Long, aquatics director at Dinah E. Gore Sports and Aquatics Complex, gives a safety talk to children taking lessons in the Brunswick School of Fish program.
We’re Techy and We Know It
Coopertition guides
The Beach Botz robotics club at South Brunswick High School.
BY BETH A. KLAHRE
It’s the excitement of sports, the rigor of science and the amazement of technology. South Brunswick High School students experience all three in The Beach Botz, a robotics club that challenges students to build, code and operate robots.
The club was organized in 2022 with a grant from the international youth organization FIRST Robotics and enthusiastic agreement from drafting teacher Megan Brown and math teacher MaryAnne Gilland to serve as coaches. The team is composed of 11 dedicated, eager students, eight boys and three girls, who construct robots as large as 4 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
The Beach Botz wasted no time entering its maiden competition in its first year. With only three months to build and code, the students’ attempt to construct a robot had a rough start. The arm that operated on a pulley system broke early in the competition.
“Our team quickly learned how to play as a defensive robot to help out other teams in our alliance,” Brown says. “Even with those challenges the first year, our team worked hard and won the Rookie Inspiration award at two events as well as competed with the top teams in the final competition in Charlotte, North Carolina.”
The Beach Botz has since participated in five competitions with fun themes that change with each
Top, Skyler Swanson, Eliel Florez Lopez, Andrew Sherrod and Gage Schlemmer; middle, the team at the Charlotte Regional Competition; bottom, Arabella Houchens, Avella Merriam, Ethan Bonney, Christopher Snyder, Skyler Swanson and Hunter Thomas.
contest. One competition theme was music. The Beach Botz’s robot was challenged to shoot rings — music notes — into goals and then climb and hang on a chain.
“It doesn’t sound too difficult, but building and programming a robot that can drive, shoot, climb and hang is much harder than you think,” Gilland says.
One student spent the entire competition in the pit work area rebuilding a gear system in the climbing mechanism from parts donated by other teams.
“Due to his unwavering dedication, our robot climbed and hung in the last match,” Gilland says. “Even though we didn’t qualify for the state competition, we all felt we had won in that moment.”
Gilland enjoys watching the students learn not only how to build a working robot, but also how to communicate with other teams and grow as professionals.
“It’s called coopertition,” she explains. “Teams help and cooperate with each other, even as they compete, everyone learning from teammates, teaching each other, collaborating with mentors, managing and being managed.”
Students learn skills in marketing, mechanical and electrical engineering and computer programming as well as leadership and teambuilding.
“It’s amazing to see our students work with other students from across North Carolina,”
Gilland says. “Students come out of their shells and build confidence. That’s wonderful and rewarding.”
FIRST Robotics goes beyond the technology, offering resume-building, networking opportunities and scholarships. Participating in the robotics club also provides the opportunity to travel.
“Many students don’t have the chance to venture outside of Brunswick County or to experience these opportunities otherwise,” Gilland says.
Last school year, The Beach Botz hosted a FIRST LEGO League robotics competition tailored specifically for middle school students hoping to inspire and engage potential future team members. The high school students took on roles as judges and referees during the intense matches. This year the competition was held at Town Creek Middle School.
“It is during these formative years that children begin to display a true passion for robotics,” Gilland says. “As we look
forward to the upcoming season, our team is excited to connect with our middle school peers and invest time in supporting and mentoring them even further.”
Senior Andrew Sherrod says he has learned more about robotics, mechanical engineering and coding than he ever expected during his year in the club.
“The most important thing I’ve learned about myself is my passion to problem solve and learn how things work,” he says. “Robotics has given me groundwork in simple physics and mechanical engineering while also providing me with complex knowledge on modern-day electronics.”
Sherrod says he cannot name just one favorite thing about the club, but both his fellow teammates and the challenge of the program itself are at the top of his list. He credits The Beach Botz with guiding his future career plans, which include a degree in biomedical engineering.
What’s next for The Beach Botz? Fundraising. Building a robot can get very expensive as the parts alone are pricey. Technology, such as 3D printers, has helped fabricate components less expensively, but these parts tend to break often. Southport Evening Rotary Club and Spikes Dairy Bar have sponsored the club for the past two years. Other local sponsors this year were Brunswick County Schools, FIRST Robotics, Wolfspeed and Lawn Care by Maria & Martin LLC, a team member’s family business.
WANT TO HELP?
Do you have technical or leadership skills to share with The Beach Botz? Want to be a sponsor of the club? Visit the Help Our Team page at sbhsrobotics.com.
South Brunswick County High School is planning to start a booster club this fall and is also looking for mentors who can help with both technical and soft skills.
“Having someone who has mastered his or her trade share their knowledge is priceless,” Gilland says.
At the end of the day, she adds, “We are building relationships. And making lasting memories.”
Members of the 2023-24 team: Ethan Bonney, Joshua Henderson, Christopher Snyder, Ellery Davis, Hunter Thomas, Andrew Sherrod, Avella Merriam, Arabella Houchens, Eliel Florez Lopez, Skyler Swanson, Peter Whalen, Roz Peterson (mentor) and leaders Maryanne Gilland and Megan Brown.
Dunes Mercantile Gifts & Guitars
Anyone lucky enough to go Over the Bridge (OTB as the locals call it) to Oak Island, anticipates the adventure of what lies ahead.
Part of the adventure on this strip of paradise by the sea is Dunes
stained glass is also a highlight, and pottery and artwork by local artists add a special touch.
there is an abundance of options to delight the senses — metal wall art, jewelry, candles and a multitude of beachy home décor items. Dunes Mercantile is also an exclusive dealer
price ranges, Dunes Mercantile Gifts & Guitars aims to be an adventure on any trip to Oak Island. And when the Bridge, the memories of time experience is what Dunes Mercantile
Dunes Mercantile Gifts & Guitars 8600 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island
2nd
Annual
Oak
Island
Tide Sit In
July 21 at Middleton Park Beach Access on Oak Island
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL RITENOUR
More than 100 people brought their beach chairs to the 2nd Annual Oak Island Tide Sit In to sit at the water’s edge as the tide came in. The waves washed the participants out until only one person was left sitting: Meghan Mattos of Bolivia. This super-fun fundraiser raised more than $2,500 for the Oak Island & Caswell Beach Turtle programs. Be sure to participate in the third annual event next summer.
Chop with a Cop
June 27 at Throw Baxe Axe House and Board Game Lounge in Southport
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA
TORREY
The Oak Island Police Department’s Chop with a Cop event was a blast, with local teens throwing axes with officers from various local law enforcement agencies. The free event featured one hour of practice and one hour of competitive throwing. The Oak Island Police Department thanks Southport Police Department, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office and Boiling Spring Lakes Police Department for teaming up to make this day unforgettable. Teams were randomly assigned for extra fun and surprises. The 1st place team was Maddox Cagel, age 17, from Oak Island and Tommy Tolley, who is retired from the Brunswick Sheriff’s Office.
Take A Kid Surfing Day
June 15 at Trott Street on Oak Island
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE D PHOTOGRAPHY
South Brunswick High School’s Surf Dreams Club hosted the free Take a Kid Surfing Day event on June 15. Presented by the Surf Dreams Foundation and hosted by the SBHS Surf Dreams Club, the event raised $1,750. The club teaches kids about the transformative power of surfing and community service.
NC 4th of July Festival
June 28 to July 4 in Southport and Oak Island
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZEB STARNS
Since 1795 the NC 4th of July Festival has welcomed revelers to Southport and Oak Island to celebrate our nation’s independence. This year’s festival was a fantastic success, drawing more than 50,000 visitors to the annual parade and fireworks.
The 2024 festival featured a variety of events, including a firefighter’s competition, nightly live entertainment, children’s games, arts and crafts, the Freedom Flotilla
and a Naturalization Ceremony. Attendees enjoyed great food and much more. Oak Island hosted Beach Day, which included a corn hole tournament, bocce ball, volleyball and skate competitions, a shag dance contest and an evening concert with a live band and dancing. The festival concluded with a spectacular fireworks display over the Cape Fear River on the Southport waterfront, capping off an unforgettable celebration.
Dosher Memorial Hospital Cookout
June 8 at Dosher Memorial Hospital in Southport
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZEB
Dosher Memorial Hospital celebrated its 94th birthday with a highly anticipated community cookout on Saturday, June 8 at the hospital’s front entrance. More than 500 guests enjoyed lunch, live music and the company of friends, neighbors, public officials and Dosher staff.
Speakers included Southport Mayor Rich Alt, Dosher Board Chairman Robert Howard, Dosher President and CEO Lynda Stanley and Retired Southport City Clerk Regina White Alexander, who shared her positive experiences with Dosher. Rev. Tim Davis gave the invocation, Wendy Jones led the National Anthem, and Barbie Cooper sang “Happy Birthday.” The event concluded
1988
STARNES
with a surprise presentation of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award to Dr. Joseph Hatem by State Senator Bill Rabon and State Representative Charlie Miller.
President and CEO Lynda Stanley expressed gratitude for the community’s support, noting the cookout as an opportunity to thank attendees and celebrate Dosher’s ongoing commitment to local healthcare. The event also marked the beginning of Dosher’s 7-year Master Facility Plan, which includes a new Emergency Department.
The annual cookout tradition, revived in 2022 postCOVID, underscores Dosher’s appreciation for the community’s trust and investment over 94 years.
