SPT OKI Winter 2025-26 Edition

wingmanʼs mission

Chip Frazier’s steady training steps are part of a lifeline of hope for his son and other veterans across the nation.

U.S.C.G. SHIPMATES CONTINUE TO BE ANCHORED TOGETHER

OUR EPIC PROJECT BOILS OVER WITH KINDNESS

DOCK STAR LABS KIARA AND ERIN RISE THROUGH THE RANKS

38

NORTH MEETS SOUTH THROUGH FOOD

Blending Northern deli traditions, Southern hospitality and a commitment to quality meats and meals, five friends with varied backgrounds created Back Home Butcher in Southport.

DEPARTMENTS

33 A NIMALS

They leap. They swim. They win. Meet local Labs Kiara and Erin, who are rising through the ranks of competitive dock diving with the help of their owners, Kathy and Shawn Phelan.

46 A NCHORED TOGET HER

Six U.S. Coast Guard shipmates who served together in 1980 are surprised to find themselves collectively retired in Brunswick County.

With Our EPIC Project, Outer Banks Boil Company extends its coastal hospitality beyond its seafood feasts, offering entrepreneurial support, mental health assistance and restful family retreats for those who need it most.

50

FOOD & DINING

Tipsy Tuna Bar & Grill owners Taylor Sullivan and Clark Casson have reimagined the former Chasers into a community gathering spot that celebrates local flavor, friendly service and the laid-back charm Oak Island is known for.

54 ART

Southport artist Debbie Appleby transforms light and color into everchanging works of stained and fused glass — and inspires others to do the same.

58 HOME OF DISTINCTION

When Todd and Colleen Tanck of SeaCoast Homes built their own home, they also built the perfect lifestyle, combining craftsmanship, creativity and comfort in an awardwinning waterfront haven.

64 PEOPLE

Chip Frazier’s steady training steps are part of a lifeline of hope for his son and other veterans across the nation.

PHOTO

PHOTO

#1 #1 #1 in Brunswick County in North Carolina in the Nation

We’ve been the area’s #1 real estate company for the past 25 years. Put the power of our proven performance to work for you.

We’d love to help you find your place to call home.

Winter 2025-26 Issue — Volume 3, Issue 2

CEO/PUBLISHER: Justin Williams

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER: Sandi Grigg

COPY EDITOR: Molly Harrison

CONTRIBUTING GRAPHICS:

Teresa Kramer S amantha Lowe

Cissy Russell

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Brian Wilner

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Bill Markowitz

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:

H annah Altman E d Beckley

L aura Cockfield Megan Deitz

R obert Ford Brent Gallant

K atie D Photography Jo Ann Mathews

M att McGraw Bill Ritenour

E llen Sheehan Z eb Starnes

James Stefiuk Brenda Torrey

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

A nna Beth Adcock Sandi Grigg

Dana Jordan Jonathan Pattishall

David Putnam R andi Jo Rooks

Scott Ruete, USCG Ret. Melissa Slaven Warren

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: Hannah Altman

SALES & MARKETING INTERNS: Isla Murphy C aroline Thomas Sydney Yoch

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.

©2025-26 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. 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 Matt McGraw captured our cover image of Chip Frazier, an Oak Island resident often seen in training for the 50 Mile March, an endurance walk that raises awareness and funds for veterans facing mental health challenges. See Randi Jo Rooks' story about Frazier starting on page 64.

Southport Strong

OOn September 27, 2025, the Southport community was shaken to its core when a senseless shooting claimed three lives and injured six others at American Fish Company. The horror of that night rippled far beyond the Yacht Basin, touching every corner of Southport and Oak Island and shocking everyone who loves southeastern North Carolina’s small communities. Not one of us could have imagined this happening here.

But in the midst of all the heartbreak, the strength of the community was immediately evident, and that was no surprise. This is a town that refuses to be defined by tragedy.

In the aftermath, we witnessed compassion in action: neighbors comforting neighbors, strangers stepping up to help, and local businesses rallying in extraordinary ways to raise funds for the victims. Southport Cares even funded paychecks for American Fish Company staff who were out of work. Acts of quiet

courage and kindness — from first responders to bystanders who rendered aid — have shown us the character of Southport’s residents and visitors.

All of us at SPT OKI Magazine are heartbroken by this tragedy. We stand in remembrance of Solomon Banjo, Joy Rogers and Michael Durbin, who lost their lives on September 27, and send loving strength to the six people who were injured and all the staff, patrons and first responders who experienced the trauma of that night’s events.

Southport is more than one night’s tragedy. It is a community built on connection, care and a deep commitment to one another. With SPT OKI Magazine, we strive to reflect these values on our pages, and they are certainly found in this issue.

You’ll meet the crew of Outer Banks Boil Company, a business that goes beyond traditional seafood boils to give back in big ways — including a free Oak Island vacation for a deserving family every year. You’ll meet six former Coast Guard shipmates who were surprised to find themselves all retired to Brunswick County 45 years after they served together. You’ll learn about entrepreneurs who took a chance, a stained-glass artist who loves her job and, for fun, two Labrador retriever sisters who are national champions in the sport of dock diving. Plus you’ll find out about upcoming events for the holiday and winter season.

I hope you enjoy your holiday season. Love your neighbors, and do all the good you can in the world, and we’ll see you in 2026.

Justin Williams Owner/Publisher

Don’t miss a single thing in SPT OKI

The Southport Oak Island area has so much to see and do all year round, and if you’re like me, it’s hard to keep track of it all.

That’s why we created Southport Oak Island Lifestyle — an e-Newsletter full of local events, places to see and people to meet.

Choosing to subscribe is probably the easiest thing you’ll do all day. Scanning the code below with your phone may be the second:

SCAN ME

to subscribe to the enewsletter or have SPT OKI Magazine delivered to your door quarterly. Or visit Lifeinbrunswick county.com/subscribe

Dana Jordan

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

I am a former fast-paced publishing pro who traded deadlines for dog walks, conference calls for cat wrangling, and corporate chaos for culinary attempts that (fingers crossed) please my still-rat-racing husband. A lifelong North Carolinian, I hold dear the classic Southern trinity: God, family and fried food. These days, I fuel both my soul and my wallet with my true passion — writing. Whether I am crafting heartfelt stories or witty essays, I live for genuine connections with my readers. When I am not at my desk or buried in a book (I’ll read just about anything), you’ll likely find me on the pickleball court giving it my all — despite zero expectations of a call-up from the pros. But my favorite moments? Quiet afternoons on the back porch, a cat in my lap, a cool drink in hand, something good to read and the ever-hopeful thought that maybe — just maybe — that dinner-cooking genie will finally show up and make something edible.

Matt McGraw

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

I started out in newspaper world, shooting the NBA, NCAA and MLB in the Midwest. Those were awesome experiences that paved the way for my style of photography today. I started shooting weddings in 2002, and now I average around 50 weddings a year, along with about 150 family photo sessions a year. With McGraw Photo Consulting, I am also a photo consultant, primarily in the dental business. I love traveling, and I love what I do for a living.

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.

More to Explore

SPOTLIGHTING NC’S VENUS FLYTRAPS

Discover Flytrap Town, a documentary about saving North Carolina’s wild Venus flytraps and the dedicated community protecting this rare species.

A captivating new feature-length documentary, Flytrap Town, is currently in production in southeastern North Carolina. The film tells the remarkable story of the Venus flytrap — a unique carnivorous plant found only in the wild within a 75-mile radius of Wilmington — and the dedicated community fighting to save it from extinction due to rapid development.

| CONTINUE READING ONLINE |

Brunswick Little Theatre’s gala raises $14,000 to support creative programming and facility improvements in Southport.

Brunswick Little Theatre (BLT), a dedicated all-volunteer, non-profit theatre group, is celebrating the resounding success of its recent Cabaret & Cabernet Gala held on September 26. The event exceeded expectations, raising an impressive $14,000 to support future creative programming and much-needed facility improvements.

The semi-formal Cabaret welcomed over 130 guests to the Southport Community Building, where attendees enjoyed bidding on raffle baskets and sampling a wide array of hors d’oeuvres, desserts and drinks.

| CONTINUE READING ONLINE |

SOUTHPORT WINTERFEST 2025

Celebrate the holidays at Southport WINTERFEST 2025 with festive events, parades and family fun in Historic Downtown Southport from December 5 to 13.

The city transforms into a coastal winter wonderland for Southport WINTERFEST 2025. This week-long celebration brings back cherished traditions and introduces exciting new events, all designed to capture the spirit and joy of the holidays.

| CONTINUE READING ONLINE |

PHOTO BY ROBERT FORD

A LONG OVERDUE THANK YOU

by Jo Ann Mathews

Vietnam War-era veterans in Brunswick County are finally receiving the recognition they were denied decades ago, with lapel pins that carry the words, “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You.”

Thanks to local organizations like VFW Post 10226 and Cape Fear Blue Star Mothers, local Vietnam War-era veterans are being thanked for their service, some for the first time.

RUN ADVENTURECORPS®

In the 2025 AdventureCORPS® Marathon & Half Marathon on Bald Head Island on October 26, runners enjoyed scenic races, family fun and exclusive runner perks.

The highly anticipated second annual Cape Fear Marathon & Half Marathon, presented by Mount to Coast and organized by AdventureCORPS®, adds to the island’s reputation as a premier destination for endurance racing and outdoor adventure.

47TH KING MACKEREL TOURNAMENT

The 47th Annual U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament in Southport awarded more than $206,000 in prizes, celebrating top anglers and community impact.

The 47th Annual U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament returned to Dutchman Creek Park in Southport from October 30 to November 1, after a nearly month-long postponement. Despite challenging weather and rescheduling, 226 boats competed for more than $206,000 in total prize money, showcasing the region’s strong fishing community and spirit of competition.

| CONTINUE

PHOTO

PHOTO BY JO ANN MATHEWS

In Case You Missed It

FOCUS Broadband Awards Grants to Brunswick County Educators

With its 2025 Smart Connections Grant Program, FOCUS Broadband offered funding to 15 educators across Brunswick County for creative and impactful classroom projects designed to benefit students in a variety of subjects. The grants support programs in STEM, literacy, fine arts and life skills, providing resources that foster hands-on learning, introduce new technologies and help students develop essential skills for the future. The 2025 Brunswick County grant recipients and their projects include:

BRUNSWICK COUNTY SCHOOLS

Science Olympiad Invitational: Funding will help prepare local Science Olympiad teams for the regional tournament and introduce Science Olympiad events into classrooms.

BOLIVIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Creating Lifelong Readers: Funds will be used to purchase a SocialEmotional Learning Program and books for the Day Treatment program, supporting students in grades 1 to 5.

COAST

Legos for Science!: Grant will provide LEGO kits to model scientific concepts and promote hands-on learning.

NORTH BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL

Microscopes for Biology: Funds will support the purchase of light microscopes for biology and marine biology labs.

Virtual Reality Science: The grant will help integrate virtual reality activities into science classes.

SHALLOTTE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Can You Understand Me Now: Funds will be used to purchase translation devices to improve communication between teachers and English Language learners.

SOUTH BRUNSWICK MIDDLE SCHOOL

Theater Program: Funding will help establish a new theater club for 600 students, encouraging appreciation for the arts.

SOUTH BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL

Calculators for Chemistry: Funds will purchase 15 TI Color Graphic Calculators for chemistry courses.

Girls Who Code: Grant will provide materials and technology for the Girls Who Code club, supporting students of all skill levels in coding and STEM exploration.

SUPPLY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Edison Robots: Funds will introduce Edison Robots to the classroom, allowing students to learn coding and problem-solving through interactive activities.

THE ACADEMY OF COASTAL CAROLINA

Chilling with Science: Grant will fund a refrigerator/freezer to support science experiments requiring cold storage.

TOWN CREEK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Makerspace Magic: Project will introduce 3D printing technology to encourage innovation and hands-on engineering projects.

VIRGINIA WILLIAMSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Creating an Inclusive Classroom: Grant will be used to acquire resources that foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.

WEST BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL

Microscopes for Biology: Funds will support the purchase of light microscopes for biology and marine biology labs.

Life Skills Soap Squad: Project will provide students with opportunities to develop financial literacy, entrepreneurship and business skills through a student-run soap-making business.

Since 2006 FOCUS Broadband has awarded more than $1.16 million in grants to support classroom projects, with many grants benefiting Brunswick County. The application window for the 2026 Community Connections and Smart Connections Grant Programs will open in December 2025.

Renee’s Fine Jewelry Celebrates 25th Anniversary

On September 12 Renee’s Fine Jewelry celebrated 25 years in business, marking a milestone of dedicated service to the community. The team expressed gratitude to their customers with a celebration that featured jewelry giveaways, Champagne, food and fun. Renee’s Fine Jewelry is 602 N. Howe Street in Southport.

Chamber Recognizes Businesses with Golden Pineapple Awards

The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce recently announced the recipients the quarterly Golden Pineapple Awards, which recognize businesses for outstanding customer service. Winners are selected based on nominations submitted by their customers.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Better Beach Rentals & Sales, Hampton Inn & Suites Southport, iTrip Vacations Oak Island,  Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., Realtors, and River Hotel of Southport

ACTIVITIES, ATTRACTIONS, & ENTERTAINMENT: Cape Fear Gymnastics, Cape Fear Yoga and Wellness Center, Crossfit Southport, NOWCAT, and Yoga Unlimited

FOOD AND BEVERAGE: Bald Head Coffee and Tea House, Bella Cucina Seafood, Pasta & Pizza, Lil Bitty Donut Company, Southport Coffee Co., and The Tiki Tavern

PROFESSIONALS: Coastline Insurance Associates of NC, Inc., FinPoint Insurance, Live Oak Medspa, Hamilton Realty Group eXp Realty,  Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., Realtors, Pinnacle Mortgage Corp., River Road Animal Hospital, Southern Realty Advantage, LLC, and Southport Realty

RETAIL:  The Artisans Gallery on Howe, Doodles Market & Convenience, Southport Market, and Wicker & More of Southport

SERVICES: Bell’s Supply Heating & Air, Cape Fear Solar Systems, Coastal Painting & Improvements, Cruise Planners Lina DiCola, J5 Home Solutions, Mow & Blow OKI, Pelican Prowash, River Run Pack & Ship, Salt Air Heating, Cooling & Electrical, St. James Remodeling, and Trash Can Porter

GFWC-Southport Woman’s Club Hosts

GFWC-NC District 7 2025

Fall Meeting

On October 18 the GFWC-Southport Woman’s Club hosted the district meeting with more than 50 women from numerous woman’s club in North Carolina in attendance. Held at the First Presbyterian Church in Southport, the meeting was called to order by District President Sandy Alford. Southport Fire Department held the presentation of colors, and Jwantana Frink sang the National Anthem. Southport Woman’s Club

President Penny Tysinger offered a huge Southport welcome. Guest speaker Mary Ann Rogers, representing Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter at 4260 Long Beach Road in Southport, spoke about the rescue, rehabilitation and release wild birds in the southeastern North Carolina.

American Legion Post 543 Supports BCC Softball

American Legion Richard H. Stewart, Jr. Post 543 recently donated $1,000 to support the Brunswick Community College (BCC) Softball Team. Aaron Largent of the American Legion presented the check to Head Coach Maliq Johnson and BCC President Dr. Gene Smith during a special ceremony held on the softball field, with team members in attendance. The donation highlights Post 543’s dedication to supporting local students both academically and athletically.

Regina Morrison Named Dosher Triple E Recipient

Regina Morrison, a claims analyst from Dosher Patient Accounts, was recently honored with the hospital’s Employees Exceeding Excellence, “Triple E” award. Morrison was recognized for being a thoughtful colleague to her teammates, one who is always willing to help with their questions. In addition, she goes above and beyond to respond to the needs of our patients and is known for her friendly demeanor. Morrison has been part of the Dosher team since 2016. Originally from Oak Island, she and her husband live in Sunset Harbor and when not at work, she likes to read and spend time with her grandchildren. Triple E recipients are nominated by their peers on a quarterly basis.

Southport Board of Aldermen Appoints Noah Saldo as Permanent City Manager

At its September meeting the Southport Board of Aldermen unanimously appointed Interim City Manager Noah Saldo as permanent city manager, effective immediately. Saldo joined the City of Southport as city clerk in August 2024 and became interim city manager in February 2025. Originally from Cleveland County, North Carolina, Saldo began his career as a funeral director before earning a Master of Public Administration from Arkansas State University. He served as town clerk for Boiling Spring, North Carolina, and is a certified municipal clerk through the International Institute of Municipal Clerks at the UNC School of Government. Saldo has broad experience in local government, including roles on the Cleveland County Planning Board and participation in multiple UNC School of Government programs. He moved to Brunswick County in 2024.

Southport Board of Aldermen Appoints New City Clerk

At its September meeting the Southport Board of Aldermen unanimously appointed Deputy City Clerk Tori Deviney as city clerk, effective immediately. Deviney has served the City of Southport since November 2018 and has experience in multiple local government departments, including Utilities, Permitting, Planning and Zoning, and Administration. A Southport native with deep family roots in the community, Deviney attended local schools and earned an associate’s degree from Brunswick Community College. She is a Certified Zoning Official, a graduate of Leadership Brunswick County and is completing her municipal clerk certification through the UNC School of Government.

Glenn Paul McVicker Achieves Prestigious GRI Designation

Glenn Paul McVicker, a leading real estate agent with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., Realtors®, has earned the Graduate Realtor® Institute (GRI) designation from the National Association of Realtors®. This designation is awarded to real estate professionals who complete an intensive 60-hour curriculum covering topics such as legal issues, ethics, finance, risk reduction and advanced technology.

With deep roots in the Brunswick Islands and extensive community knowledge, McVicker offers expert guidance to clients seeking relocation, second homes or investment properties. The GRI designation further strengthens his foundation of professional excellence and local expertise, equipping him with advanced training to better serve and protect his clients in a dynamic market. In addition to the GRI, McVicker holds certifications as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES), Resort & Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS), and Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), enabling him to bring a practical, client-focused approach and best-practice knowledge to every transaction.

The Hi-Steppers, ages 60 to 87, won gold medals in the NC Silver Arts Follies during the NC State Senior Games on September 19 at the Cary Arts Center. Southport and Oak Island residents winning medals include Karen Anderson, Sharon Binis, Carrie Casey, Teri Dixon, Vicki Dunkerley and Lesly Miller.

PROACTIVE Real Estate Opens Oak Island Office

On September 24 Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce assisted PROACTIVE Real Estate & Vacations with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new PROACTIVE office at 5515 E. Oak Island Drive on Oak Island. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed refreshments, toured the office and connected with the PROACTIVE Real Estate & Vacations teams.

Lynes Family Strengthens BCC Scholarships with $20,000 Gift

Daniel and Linda Lynes visited Brunswick Community College in September to present a $20,000 gift in support of student scholarships, meeting with BCC President Dr. Gene Smith and Foundation Executive Director Teresa Nelson. The Lynes family established their endowed scholarship in 2009 and have continued investing in BCC students ever since. Their latest gift expands opportunities for students to persist, complete and step confidently into the workforce and further education.

Duke Energy’s Brunswick Nuclear Plant Celebrates 50 Years

Duke Energy’s Brunswick Nuclear Plant celebrated 50 years of commercial power generation on November 3. Continuous improvements have increased the plant’s electricity output, reliability and safety since its original design. To mark the milestone, Duke Energy hosted a Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce Business Networking After Hours on November 6 at the Brunswick Energy & Education Center in Southport, thanking local business leaders for their decades of support. Site Vice President John Krakuszeski updated attendees on the plant’s operations and economic impact, while chamber officials recognized the plant’s contributions to the community.

Local Seniors Win Gold at NC State Senior Games

Dosher Drug Drop Reports Turnout of 231 Households

At Dosher Memorial Hospital’s 29th semiannual Operation Medicine Cabinet on October 1, 231 households safely disposed of 7,383 expired or unwanted narcotic pills and 1,514 milliliters of narcotic liquids. The collected medications were sorted and sent for safe incineration. Dosher employees, along with staff and volunteers from the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office and Coastal Horizons, assisted with the event and provided law enforcement support. The next collection is planned for April 2026.

Brunswick County Habitat for Humanity Raises $47,000 at Golf Tournament

Brunswick County Habitat for Humanity raised a recordbreaking $47,000 at its annual golf tournament on September 25 at Thistle Golf Club. Nearly 200 golfers participated in the sold-out event to support the nonprofit’s mission of building affordable homes. First place teams included Hagood Homes, Azalea Roofing and Mansfield Sales & Services, while the McDonald, Troxler and Cheek teams took second place. The 50/50 raffle winner, George Ouelette, donated $1,000 of his prize back to the organization. All proceeds will support Brunswick County Habitat’s efforts to build homes, communities and hope. Founded in 1993 Brunswick County Habitat for Humanity is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International and recently began constructing

its 100th home. The organization serves a diverse group of homeowners, including families, single parents, veterans and first responders, with homes built by staff and volunteers and funded by donations and ReStore proceeds. Homeowners contribute sweat equity to help build their future homes.

EMK Construction Inc.

Expands to Brunswick County

On October 15 the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate EMK Construction Inc.’s expansion into Brunswick County. EMK Construction, a family-owned business known for custom-built homes and quality craftsmanship, was founded in Clayton, North Carolina. The company’s growth into Brunswick County includes the opening of an award-winning model home at 8397 Quinn Place in Southport.

The Beach House Motel & Suites Hosts Chamber Members for After Hours

On October 15, members of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce enjoyed a fantastic evening of networking at The Beach House Motel & Suites on Oak Island. The business community made meaningful connections while taking advantage of cooler fall weather and the warm hospitality. Located at 500 Ocean Drive, The Beach House Motel & Suites is a great option for hosting guests or out-oftown family during the holidays. 

Mark Your Calendar

New Year’s Eve Party at The Pub of Southport

December 31

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with live music and a DJ, and enjoy a free toast of bubbly at midnight. The fun starts at 8 pm and runs to 2 am.

Information: thepubofsouthport.com

New Year’s Eve Party at The Tiki Tavern

December 31

Head down to The Tiki Tavern this New Year’s Eve to enjoy live music by LunaSea from 7:30 to 10:30 pm, followed by a DJ until 2 am. There will be a live ball drop with a crane and food trucks on site.

Information: facebook.com/tikitavernsouthport

Oak Island New Year’s Day Beach Lantern Parade

January 1

For the fourth annual Beach Lantern Parade, participants will meet at 5 pm the Oak Island Pier and walk east at dusk to the McGlamery Street beach access and back. No open-flame lanterns permitted — battery-lit paper lanterns are encouraged.

Information: oak-islandnc.com/ new-years-day-beach-lantern-parade/

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

January 6

Prolific author and popular lecturer Col. Wade Sokolosky (Ret.), longtime advisor to the Brunswick Civil War Round Table, will present insights from years of careful research and archival sources. The meeting takes place at Hatch Auditorium, 100 Caswell Beach Road in Caswell Beach, at 7 pm.

Information: brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com

Coastal Consumer Showcase

February 12

Businesses and vendors in the Southport-Oak Island area will showcase their products and services at St. James Community Center from 4 to 7 pm.

Information: southport-oakisland.com

Run Oak Island

February 14 & 15

Get ready for a Valentine’s weekend race extravaganza! Saturday’s 10K starts at 7 am, the 5K starts at 8:30 am and the 1-mile fun run starts at 9:30 am. Run one race or all three as a challenge. Sunday brings an Ultra, Full, and East Half starting at 7:45 am and a West Half starting at 8 am.

Information: coastalraceproductions.com/ race/run-oak-island-2026/

Oak Island Mardi Gras Parade and Festival

February 21

Oak Island's annual Mardi Gras parade starts at Keziah Street at 11 am and ends at SE 46th Street. Immediately following the parade, head to Middleton Park Complex from 12 to 4 pm for festival vendors, live music, food trucks, crafts, kids’ activities and more.

Information: oakislandnc.gov/ events

Oak Island Polar Plunge

February 21

Take a dip in the winter ocean to support Special Olympics Brunswick County. Watch the athletes march in the Mardi Gras Parade (see above) at 11 am, then meet them and Chilly the Polar Bear in Middleton Park. At 3 pm gather at the SE 46th Street access on Oak Island for registration before taking the icy plunge at 4 pm.

Information: sonc.net/support/ help-to-fundraise-polar-plunges/

Oak Island New Year’s Day Beach Lantern Parade

Oak Island Mardi Gras

Oak Island Polar Plunge

PHOTO BY BRENDA TORREY

Crafting the American Story: Art, Identity & History Exhibition

February 21 to 28

Brunswick County artists will exhibit works themed around the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Sponsored by the City of Southport, Brunswick Arts Council and Fort-Johnston-Southport Museum & Visitors Center, the exhibit will be held at Southport Community Building at 223 E. Bay Street in Southport. The exhibit may be viewed from 10 am to 4 pm.

Information: cityofsouthport.com/ crafting-the-american-story/

First Friday Gallery Walk

March 6

On the first Friday of every month, stroll among Downtown Southport art galleries, enjoying hospitality and artwork along the way. The walk takes place from 5 to 7 pm and features up to eight galleries.

Information: townofsouthport.com/ first-friday-gallery-walk

WHAT’S

Coastal Health, Fitness & Beauty Showcase

March 10

The community gathers at St. James Community Center for Southport Oak-Island Chamber of Commerce’s annual showcase of local health, fitness and beauty businesses and services. This takes place from 4 to 7 pm.

Information: southportoakisland.com

Love in Bloom Bridal Expo

March 15

Couples planning their wedding should plan to attend the Bridal Expo to meet wedding vendors including photographers, florists, caterers, planners, officiants and more. The expo is held at Southport Community Building, 223 E Bay Street in Southport, from 2 to 5 pm.

Information: cityofsouthport.com/ love-in-bloom-bridal-expo/

BADWATER Cape Fear

March 21

Held annually on Bald Head Island, this ultrarunning event features two distance options: a 50 km and a 51.4-mile course. The route starts with 12 miles of island roads/trails on Bald Head Island, then goes onto the beach for the remainder of the distance (either 19 or 38 miles depending on the course).

Information: badwater.com/event/ badwater-cape-fear/

The Lavender Sparkler Effect

A take on the French 75, this citrusy, effervescent gin cocktail adds a floral note for a romantic twist.

BY SANDI GRIGG

One sip of this fizzy Lavender Sparkler and a bite of buttery lobster was all it took to turn an ordinary night at a seafood restaurant into an unforgettable celebration.

My spouse and I sat at the bar, next to the window at our favorite seafood restaurant — the salty notes wafting in the air. It was our anniversary, so we splurged and ordered from the fancy drink menu. The server brought out two cocktails similar to a French 75 but not exactly. With bubbles dancing around in each glass, they were garnished with a twist of lemon and a sprig of fresh lavender.

As we toasted, the first sip was bright and crisp — the citrus and gin whetting our appetites for the meal to come. When the lobster arrived, its shell glistening and the meat drenched in melted butter, we could not help but smile. The cocktail’s effervescence and subtle floral notes paired perfectly, refreshing our palates between each decadent bite.

Of course, I had to re-create this cocktail at home. There are many options to try with this cocktail. You can try swapping some or all of the lemon juice with fresh grapefruit or blood orange juice to create a more layered and intriguing citrus flavor. If you do not like lavender, try substituting tarragon leaves as it would also be nicely paired with seafood.

Gin is distilled from juniper berries, which are rich in antioxidants, and most gin is naturally gluten-free, making it a good spirit choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

We lingered over the meal, savoring the harmony of flavors and the easy conversation. By the time the plates were cleared, we both agreed: Nothing had ever tasted quite so good as buttery lobster and a Lavender Sparkler, shared together.

LAVENDER SPARKLER

Makes 1 drink

INGREDIENTS

1 ounce citric flavored gin (or your favorite gin)

½ ounce fresh lemon juice (or grapefruit juice for a twist)

½ ounce honey-lavender syrup (recipe below)

3 ounces sparkling rosé (or Champagne/Prosecco)

Ice

Lemon twist & edible flower for garnish

METHOD

To make honey-lavender syrup:

Combine ½ cup honey, ½ cup water and 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender in a saucepan. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, then strain to remove lavender pieces, and cool.

To make the drink:

Shake gin, citrus juice and honey-lavender syrup with ice.

Strain into a chilled flute or coupe glass.

Top with sparkling rosé.

Garnish with a lemon twist and herb sprig.

OVE Lobster with

FCelebrate a special occasion with refined yet comforting Lobster Stuffed Shells — rich in flavor, simple to make and perfect for two.

BY SANDI GRIGG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES STEFIUK

or our anniversary, my spouse and I wanted to do something that brought us back to one of our first dates — cracking into lobster, laughing and savoring every bite. This year, I decided to make Lobster Stuffed Shells, a dish that felt both familiar and fresh.

The kitchen filled with the scent of lemon and garlic as I steamed the lobster, just like we used to do together. I picked out each sweet piece of meat, remembering how we used to compete to see who could pull out the biggest one. Mixing it with creamy ricotta, mozzarella and a little lemon zest, I

could not help but think how our relationship — like this dish — has a nice mix of comfort and surprise.

Lobster’s a lean, nutrient-rich protein, full of B12 and zinc for energy and immunity. The cheeses add calcium and richness, while the lemon and parsley brighten everything up. It’s indulgent but balanced — perfect for a quiet night in.

If lobster is not easy to find, shrimp, crab or even a firm white fish like grouper or haddock work great. You can lighten the filling with cottage cheese, swap in gluten-free shells or use a dairy-free cheese blend if needed. For the sauce, half-and-half instead of cream still tastes great, and

WHAT’S COOKIN’ WITH SOUTHERN SANDI

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skipping the wine is easy — just add a splash of grape juice or a little extra cream.

As the shells baked under a golden layer of Parmesan cream sauce, I poured us a glass of wine and set the table. The first bite was pure comfort — rich, tender, a little indulgent — just right for celebrating where we started and how far we have come.

LUSCIOUS LOBSTER STUFFED SHELLS

Serves 2

INGREDIENTS

For the Pasta:

1½ lbs. live whole lobster

1 lemon

6 jumbo pasta shells

2 tablespoons butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup ricotta cheese

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan (extra for garnish)

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (extra for garnish)

Salt and pepper

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons allpurpose flour

1½ cups heavy cream

¼ cup Pinot Grigio

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Dash of nutmeg

Salt and pepper

METHOD

Fill a steamer pot with 2 inches of water and squeeze in a whole lemon. Cover and bring to a boil.

Add the live lobster to the steamer rack, cover and steam for 12 minutes. Remove and let cool.

Meanwhile, cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

When the lobster has cooled, twist off the lobster claws and tail. Use kitchen shears to cut the tail underside and pull out the meat with a fork from the narrow end. Crack the claws and knuckles, then extract the meat. Discard the remaining lobster body. (The smaller legs contain edible meat but can be very difficult to extract and don’t yield very much for the work.)

Chop the lobster meat into small chunks.

In a skillet melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the lobster and cook for 1 to 2 minutes and then set aside.

In a bowl combine the lobster mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, lemon zest, parsley, salt and pepper.

In a saucepan, make a roux by melting 2 tablespoons of butter and whisking in 2 tablespoons of flour cooking for 1 minute. Slowly add the heavy cream while whisking. Then slowly add the wine while whisking. Then stir in Parmesan, dash of nutmeg, salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Put a few spoonfuls of the sauce into the bottom of a buttered baking dish. Spoon the lobster filling into each shell and place in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the shells.

Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

Served garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan.

Dock Stars

They leap. They swim. They win. Meet local Labs Kiara and Erin, who are rising through the ranks of competitive dock diving with the help of their owners, Kathy and Shawn Phelan.

BY RANDI JO ROOKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA TORREY

II have met the most interesting people since moving to Oak Island in 2020. Some are former athletes, some have served U.S. Presidents, and many have quietly lived extraordinary lives hidden in plain sight. One of my favorite recent surprises was discovering that two of the best dock-diving dogs in the world live right down the road!

Meet Kiara and Erin, two spirited black Labrador Retrievers often seen trotting beside their human, Kathy Phelan. They are world-ranked competitors in a sport you have probably never heard of: dock diving.

Top, Kiara jumping in Big Air at the Carolina Dock Dogs Battleship Splash 2025. Bottom, Kathy and Shawn Phelan with Erin and Kiara at Battleship Park.

... what started as a fun agility class with a trainer turned into a life-changing sport... “

Dock diving, also called dock jumping, is a competitive canine sport that began gaining attention in the 1990s and officially launched into DockDogs in 2000. It made its national debut on ESPN’s Great Outdoor Games and continues to grow in popularity around the world. There are three main dock diving events:

 Big Air - dogs leap for distances off a 40-foot dock into a pool

 Extreme Vertical - a high jump where dogs try to grab a bumper suspended over the pool

 Speed Retrieve - a timed swim and fetch event

Some dogs compete in Iron Dog, a combined event that scores all three disciplines.

Dock diving welcomes all breeds and sizes, from tiny lap dogs to large retrievers. Events are hosted by DockDogs® International and affiliated clubs all over the world, with competitions ranging from community fairs to World Championships in Iowa.

Kiara launched this whole adventure for Kathy and her husband, Shawn, with a surprise leap into the water at just 9 months old.

“I just wanted to do something fun with my dog,” Kathy says.

And what started as a fun agility class with a trainer turned into a life-changing sport when she stumbled upon a Dock Diving event in 2019 in Wake Forest, North Carolina, near where they lived at the time. Kiara skipped the training and instructions and dove right in, literally, to third place.

That leap introduced them to the Carolina Dock Dogs Club and a whole new world and community of competitive canine athletics.

When COVID-19 hit and most things shut down, dock diving became even more meaningful for the Phelans.

“We were still able to train outdoors as a club, and it became a weekly outlet that

ANIMALS

brought so much joy during such a tense time,” Kathy says. “It became a special part of our lives.”

Dog sisters Kiara and Erin look a lot alike but have unique personalities. Kiara is dainty, composed and obedient.

“I can get her to sit and stay while I walk to the end of the dock, toss the toy and cue her to go. Very by the book,” Kathy says.

Erin, on the other hand? “She has no brain on the dock. She just wants

Kathy Phelan gives Erin some encouragement.

to go! So, with her I just toss the toy, wind her up and let her fly.”

And fly she does! Erin is so fast that she made it to tier one of the Dueling Dogs and was the only black Lab to do so in 2024. This category is often dominated by lean, speed dogs like Whippets or Malinois, so that was a real feat for Erin.

The sister team has earned spots in the World Championships in numerous events. Kiara advancing to finals in speed retrieve, and Erin’s in

the Iron Dog. There are cash prizes and trophies for the winners, but Kathy says, “It really is just about having fun with the dogs.”

Kathy says DockDogs has a close-knit community of dog lovers, filled with people from every walk of life and a variety of ages. There is a real sense of camaraderie and family as children as young as age 7 can handle and compete with their dogs. Competitors often travel far from home, so they look out for each other along the way. If someone encounters trouble (like a flat tire or a deer strike) others quickly reroute to assist. It’s the kind of community where competitors can soon become lifelong friends.

Many DockDogs events also support causes that reflect the heart of this tight-knit group. Several competitions feature fundraisers for the B.A.A.R.K. Foundation (Basic Assistance and Recovery Kindness), a nonprofit that provides grants to help DockDogs members facing hardship or personal crises.

One of the most notable events of the year, Bark at Noah’s Ark, held annually in Goldston, North Carolina, is considered the largest dock diving competition in the world. More than just a competition, the event raises funds for the

long-term care of the special-needs grandson of the Carolina Dock Dogs founder, which is proof that this sport is built on more than jumps and distances.

Between the dogs and traveling to weekend competitions in their RV, the Phelans’ life gets busy, but it’s joyful. The team has traveled all the way to Iowa (seven times!) for Worlds but now prefers sticking closer to home for events in places like Maine and Vermont.

“We’re skipping Worlds this year, but we’re still going to some of our favorite East Coast events,” Kathy says. “I love the smaller competitions. They’re fun and less pressure.”

Even the dogs know when it’s go time.

“They see the RV and get so excited,” Kathy says. “At competitions, they stay calm in their crates. But when it’s their turn? They come out laser-focused, knowing they’re about to jump into the water.”

And yes, the dogs love it.

“The pool is the reward. Especially for Labs,” Kathy says. “I never had to teach mine to jump or swim. They were born for this.”

When they are not busy with their dogs, Kathy and Shawn, are soaking up life on Oak Island. Since moving here in 2022, they have quickly found ways to get involved in the community. Shawn, a retired chiropractor, volunteers with Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter and Oak Island Water Rescue. They are both animal and nature lovers and are often seen walking, surfing, exercising or enjoying their beautiful front porch.

“We love it here,” Kathy says. “The dogs love it too.”

It’s so fun to live on this island. You never know who you will meet and what unexpected world they will introduce you to! 

To learn more about DockDogs, go to dockdogs.com.

NORTH MEETS SOUTH Through Food

Blending Northern deli traditions, Southern hospitality and a commitment to quality meats and meals, five friends with varied backgrounds created Back Home Butcher in Southport.

BY DAVID PUTNAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE D PHOTOGRAPHY

The five creators of Back Home Butcher in Southport share an eclectic mix of regional backgrounds that converge around their mutual love and respect for fresh, delicious and healthy food. This new addition to Southport’s culinary landscape is co-owned by Ben and Elizabeth Bynum; Scott Euvrard and his wife, Joanie DeSantis; and Kevin Fahy.

has operated for 16 years. None of the five owners had any plans for a joint business venture, but they trace the idea for Back Home Butcher to a simple Halloween gathering in 2015. Their friendships quickly blossomed, leading to years of shared Sunday evening dinners. From these, a common set of values emerged, as did a growing desire to pursue a joint business venture.

Ben is a lifelong restauranteur and Certified Angus Beef Specialist who grew up in New Bern, North Carolina, while Elizabeth is a journalism major originally from Apex, North Carolina. Scott and Joanie are originally from Albany, New York. Scott has a degree in culinary arts from The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, and Joanie has a degree in hotel management and culinary arts from Schenectady County Community College in Schenectady, New York. Kevin, originally from Brooklyn/Long Island, New York, is a former N.Y.P.D. homicide detective and also owns Butcher of Brunswick (near Shallotte), a business he

“Whenever you start a small business, it can be scary and feel like you’re taking a leap of faith,” Elizabeth says. “But we have faith in each other and faith in what we can bring to the community.”

So the group of friends took a leap of faith and opened Back Home Butcher on August 28, 2025.

More than a butcher shop, Back Home Butcher is also a specialty grocery store, bakery and NY-style deli. The owners are collectively committed to excellence and vet everything they sell to ensure that it meets their rigorous standards. With a modern, clean and creative layout, the space has a

few tables, chairs and a serving counter are available for dining, but it is not a typical restaurant. Rather, it is a counter-service establishment, and most food is purchased as take out.

Customers can grab a quick lunch from the deli and then stroll around looking for options for their next meal. And that is by design. The owners hope to fill a niche that busy families will find appealing.

“Come in, hang out, get a good lunch and buy dinner all in one trip,” Elizabeth says.

Time-constrained patrons will appreciate a fully stocked freezer with premium, chef-prepared grab-and-go meals that can be popped in the oven. Tantalizing options include (but are not limited to) lasagna, chicken and dumplings, pot roast, pot pies, eggplant parmesan and ziti. These meals are prepared in-house with selections that vary based upon what is available and appropriate seasonally.

Back Home Butcher’s bread, sourced from Brooklyn and the Bronx, delivered parbaked and finished in house, is quickly

gaining in popularity. Customers know that when the cowbell rings, hot bread is coming out of the oven. It is not unusual for them to sell 400 loaves in a single day, making fresh bread one of their top sellers. Their very popular desserts also originate from New York, and varieties include such options as cannoli, crumb cake, Italian cookies, chocolate chess pie and limoncello mascarpone cake.

In the deli, customers can choose from a wide variety of made-to-order hot and cold sandwiches (including glutenfree options). The deli boasts an assortment of regional favorites from both the Northeast and the Southeast. Brisket is prepared in-house for sandwiches or selling by the pound. Pimento cheese, a Southern favorite, is made from scratch daily using Executive Chef Euvrard’s own secret recipe.

According to Ben, the deli items, like so many other things at Back Home Butcher, have been designed “to give you a taste of home, wherever that is.”

Customers can choose from lasagna, chicken cutlets, pasta salad, broccoli rabe, meatballs, breaded eggplant, rice balls and arancini. Chef Euvrard believes “the difference between good and great is attention to detail.”

While some deli items are offered consistently and others may vary, all of them are freshly

prepared using the same meats and cheeses available for purchase.

Chef Euvrard has had a lifelong passion for food. His commitment to quality was shaped in his childhood as he watched his grandfather from New York harvest and prepare food at its freshest.

Ben, raised on a family farm near New Bern, North Carolina, also has a commitment to fresh, high-quality and properly sourced food that was formed at a young age. Now responsible for procuring the meat products for Back Home Butcher, those early experiences drive his decisions daily.

Both men share the belief that food is best in its purest and most organic form.

“The fewer steps that exist between the source of our food and the consumer, the better,” Ben says.

Back Home Butcher sources as much local or regional food as possible, most of from North

Customers sample new Small Plates available as part of Back Home Butcher's afternoon menu options: Hot Pretzels with Lusty Monk mustard; Southern Caviar; Meat and Cheese Tray; Mutz Sticks; and Burrata and Bruschetta

Owners Joan DeSantis, Chef Scott Euvrard, Kevin Fahy, Ben Bynum and Elizabeth Bynum

Carolina. Their cheese is from Ashe County; their salami is from High Point; and their Carolina Kettle Chips are produced in Raleigh. But some items must be located elsewhere, like pastrami, which is sourced from one of the nation’s finest pastrami producers from New Jersey.

In the butcher shop, Back Home Butcher sells only the finest Angus beef, poultry and pork. Ben knows the producers, visits their operations and studies their production methods to ensure they meet his rigorous standards.

Back Home Butcher’s beef products are provided by DemKota Ranch and Niman Ranch and are procured

through their grass-fed programs and aged inhouse 21 to 35 days. Ben also stocks North Carolinasourced poultry and pork and other meats that are difficult to locate elsewhere, such as elk and bison from North Carolina, veal, lamb, duck, quail and specialty sausages. Although he does not stock fresh seafood, he does sell a few frozen varieties that are chemical free.

In the grocery section, Back Home Butcher stocks a wide selection of olive oils, sauces, crackers, olives, coastal craft beer and premium wine.

They also have the coveted Carolina Gold Rice, as well as an entire pasta wall devoted to dozens of different varieties, including gluten-free. In front of the butcher window are display cases with

dozens of meat and basting sauces, dry rubs and marinades, and the friendly staff is always nearby to help and offer insightful tips for food preparation if asked.

Back Home Butcher is a familyowned and operated business where the owners and their children (who also work there) regularly interact with customers. As its name suggests, the owners want to provide a place that reminds customers of the small, intimate grocers, bakers and butchers “back home.”

Joanie sees their business as a place where cultural and regional differences intersect and reflect the diversity of the community. She describes Back Home Butcher as a place “where the North and South meet at happiness.”

“We’ve all worked, lived and raised families in this community for decades,” she says, “and now we just want to be part of what makes it great and what brought us all here in the first place.”

Kevin agrees, adding, “Being in the community and giving back is what it’s all about … and it’s what we’re all about.” 

Right: USCGC Conifer breaking ice in Curtis Bay, Maryland, in 1980; below, the crew together in the early years

Anchored

ogether

Six U.S. Coast Guard shipmates who served together in 1980 are surprised to find themselves collectively retired in Brunswick County.

BY SCOTT RUETE, USCG RET. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT MCGRAW

What are the odds that six young men who served together in 1980 while stationed aboard the Coast Guard Cutter

Conifer WLB-301, out of Fort Macon, North Carolina, would all end up retired within a stone’s throw of each other in North Carolina 45 years later?

Such is the case with me and five of my former shipmates, Claude McKernan, Bob Bell, David Dowdee, Jim Ligon and Larry “Wooly” Wollard, who, after different paths in all parts of the country, have all retired to Brunswick County.

Once we were all settled here, one thing led to another and it was discovered that the six of us shipmates from the 180-foot Coast Guard Cutter Conifer now all lived in Brunswick County. The crew got together at D’s Italian Restaurant in Bolivia for David

Dowdee’s birthday in 2025, and after five minutes, it was like we had not missed a day apart.

Conifer ’s duties included working all buoys (Aids to Navigation) from Cape Hatteras all the way down to and including the Cape Fear River up to Wilmington. She also refueled Frying Pan Light Station (diesel) when it was still under U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) control. She ran search and rescue missions under some of the worst hurricane conditions and broke ice up to 4 feet

thick in the Curtis Bay/ Baltimore area to keep the shipping lanes open for winter traffic.

Back in the ’80s, we would full dress ship and tie up at the pier in Southport for the Fourth of July holiday and give tours of the ship. If we did not have duty, we spent our time enjoying Southport.

Everyone in the group has lived very different lives since our time together

Left to right, David Dowdee, Bob Bell, Jim Ligon, Scott Ruete, Claude McKernan and Larry Woolard together again

on the Conifer. As we got reacquainted, we fell into telling stories about our lives outside the U.S. Coast Guard and talked about how being a part of the organization changed us and even molded us into the men we are today.

Claude McKernan left Southern California at age 17 to join the Coast Guard, leaving behind four brothers and a dad who all served proudly in the United States Marine Corps. He considered his decision to be a breach of family etiquette, but it turned out to be an excellent choice. He made the Coast Guard his career for the next 21 years, retiring to New York City to a position as director of the largest privately owned ferry company in the United States. In 2005 he and the love of his life, Wendy, moved from NYC to Southport. There they built a house and settled in for the long haul.

Marine Police merged with the New Jersey State Troopers in 1997, he retired as an SFC with his lovely wife, Carolynn (also a retired police officer), to Southport. They had fallen in love with the area and the people of Southport after visiting multiple times. It was only later that it became apparent that several of his old Conifer shipmates had similar ideas! Bob says

Shipmate Bob Bell, born and raised in New Jersey, enlisted in June 1977. From Basic Training in Cape May, New Jersey, he was assigned to the Support Center GINY. In April 1978 he was sent to QM/SM “A” school in Orlando, Florida. Upon completion, he was assigned to USCG Cutter Chilula, WMEC 153, out of Atlantic Beach. After just 90 days, he was reassigned to TAD aboard the Conifer to fill the gap in the quartermaster staff. Two years of service aboard the Conifer cemented lifelong friendships with his crewmates.

After reassignment to USCG Group Sandy Hook in his native New Jersey, Bob left the Coast Guard (after some USCG Reserve service) to work for the State of New Jersey aboard a buoy tender, then as a commercial delivery captain, finishing his career on the water as an officer of the New Jersey State Police Marine Police. After the

high school sweetheart, Racheal, then a freshman at East Carolina University. Ten days after arriving at Fort Macon, Larry reported to the Conifer in Curtis Bay, Maryland, where she was in the final stages of a lengthy yard period.

In Larry’s own words, “On my tour of the boat, I was taken to the bridge, and in the chart room I was introduced to the QM gang. This would become a

he considers the times he spends with his Coast Guard buddies a true blessing.

Larry Woolard joined the crew of the Conifer as a newly minted SA in October 1979. It was his dream billet. Home port was just 5 miles from his mother’s front door, and, more importantly, only 80 miles from the love of his life, his gorgeous blonde

watershed moment, and in that instant the die was cast.” Larry spent 20 plus years in the banking industry retiring in 2017.

Jim Ligon was recruited into the Coast Guard in Asheville, North Carolina, in January 1980. After Basic Training in Cape May, he made his way to his first duty station aboard the Conifer in April of that year. He struck

Above, Showing off Challenge Coins from the Coast Guard days; middle, gathering in Brunswick County (with Scott's service dog, Megan); bottom, Claude with his bootcamp photo

bos’n mate and cross rated to ET, becoming a LORANimal. After serving on the Conifer, he headed back to the Wilmington area and, in his words, “bounced between LORSTA Carolina Beach and USCG Diligence until retiring in 2000.” In 2024, he and his wife, Jane, moved to Bolivia and crossed paths with a “bunch of blackhull pirates from the Connie.” David Dowdee entered service July 3, 1978, joining the USCGC Papaw upon completing Basic Training. He completed DC “A” school in January 1979 and joined the Conifer as a brand new DC3,

serving there until the end of 1980, culminating with his transfer to CGC Redwood as DC2. As is often the way in the Coast Guard, with promotion came transfer in 1982, and David found himself leaving the Redwood for a stint as DC2 and DC1 aboard the Cutter Saginaw. He was later transferred to COM STA Portsmouth, where he served until June 1984, when he was discharged

for medical reasons. At some point the irresistible force that draws this class of shipmates together drew David to the greater Brunswick County area, where, fate, good fortune and the Lord’s will, brought him once again in cahoots with this group from the Conifer

David and his wife, Diane, reside in Bolivia as well.

As for me, well, the United States Coast Guard saved my life — I would have probably ended up dead or in jail — and for this I am eternally grateful. I joined in 1978, attended SM/QM school and was immediately assigned to the USCGC Conifer. I also served aboard the Cutters Ingham and Active as well as a stint at District 5 ATON.

I was medically retired in 1985 and moved to the Maryland/Washington, D.C., area, married my wife, Diane, and worked in the commercial/ residential fence business and eventually retired in 2024. We were blessed to move to Leland in January of 2025 and could not have picked a better place to retire. For me, Brunswick County was full of great memories and offered a peaceful place (compared to Washington, D.C.) for my wife and I to spend our autumn years. We could not have made a better choice, and it is awesome to be surrounded by old shipmates and their families to spend time with as well.

The Coast Guard gave me the opportunity to serve with the best shipmates anyone could find. I served a comparatively short period with these fellows. We originally belonged to another time and place, now long passed, but I believe that it is the very hand of Providence that has brought us all together again in the autumn of our lives. 

Gone, but not forgotten: Three Shipmates who have passed, Todd Talasky, Bobby Rickets and Dennis Holland, you are very much missed and are still with us.

Taylor Sullivan and Clark Casson, owners of Tipsy Tuna Bar & Grill, also own a restaurant in Raleigh.

Reeling in Relaxation

Tipsy Tuna Bar & Grill owners

Taylor Sullivan and Clark Casson have reimagined the former Chasers into a community gathering spot that celebrates local flavor, friendly service and the laid-back charm

BY DANA JORDAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA COCKFIELD

When longtime Oak Islanders heard that the beloved Chasers restaurant on E. Oak Island Drive had been sold, curiosity ran high about what would come next. It did not take long for the community to embrace Tipsy Tuna Bar & Grill, the cheerful reinvention that brings together familiar comfort, coastal flair and a renewed sense of local pride.

For about 18 years, Chasers was a beloved local hangout known especially for its wings. In June 2024, the space entered a new chapter when Raleigh restaurateurs Taylor Sullivan and Clark Casson purchased it and transformed it into Tipsy Tuna Bar & Grill. The decision, Sullivan admits, was a little spontaneous, but deeply rooted in their love for Oak Island.

“When the restaurant became available, we saw it as a chance to truly become part of this community and give back to the place we’ve come to love,” Sullivan says. “Running a restaurant is hard work, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. We love what we do, and we love Oak Island. For us, the decision came quickly, but it was absolutely the right one.”

Choosing a name was part of the fun for Sullivan and Casson.

“We batted around a number of names using a variety of fish-related terms, and all of a sudden, I blurted out Tipsy Tuna, and the name just

stuck,” Sullivan says.

The playful name fit perfectly with the lighthearted, coastal spirit they wanted the restaurant to embody. Just like its name, the restaurant captures a sense of fun, casual comfort, inviting guests to relax, laugh and enjoy themselves.

Sullivan and Casson are also owners of Vinnie’s, a fine-dining restaurant in Raleigh, giving them experience in the food and hospitality world, but their paths did not start there. Casson has spent years in manufacturing, while Sullivan is a licensed cosmetologist. Their leap into the Oak Island dining scene reflects both their entrepreneurial spirit and their genuine love of the community.

While their Raleigh restaurant offers an upscale dining experience, Tipsy Tuna embraces a more laid-back, coastal atmosphere.

“It’s the complete opposite of what we do at Vinnie’s,” Sullivan says. “But that’s what makes it exciting. We’re enjoying the challenge of creating a space where people can relax, have fun and feel at home.”

While they reimagined the space with their own style, Sullivan and Casson have also worked to honor Chasers’ legacy. Wings remain a staple of the menu, paying tribute to what the restaurant was known for.

“We wanted to keep something familiar for the locals, something that made them feel at home,” Sullivan explains.

Beyond the wings, the menu leans into fresh, flavorful seafood, complemented by crowd favorites like hearty burgers. One dish that consistently draws attention is the Tuna Nachos — crispy wonton chips piled high with marinated, tender ahi tuna, fresh jalapeños, mangos, seaweed salad and a drizzle of lime crema. The dish is a harmonious mix of textures and flavors: salty, spicy, tangy and fresh, making it perfect for sharing or as a standout meal for one.

Sullivan’s personal favorite is the SesameCrusted Ahi Tuna, a dish that embodies the restaurant’s coastal identity.

“We try to create menu items at a lower price point,” she says. “We want Oak Islanders to be able to go out to eat and not break the bank.”

That balance of flavor, quality and value has

In a short time, Tipsy Tuna has grown into a popular Oak Island gathering place for family-friendly meals, drinks and game-day fun.

resonated with both locals and vacationers, making Tipsy Tuna a reliable and welcoming choice for all.

If the name Tipsy Tuna captures the spirit of fun, the atmosphere seals the deal. Sullivan and Casson have crafted a space that is casual, welcoming and comfortable above all else. Families, friends and neighbors can gather without pretense, whether it’s for a quick meal after work or a leisurely dinner during vacation.

Sullivan and Casson also make it a point to give back to those who serve the community. Firefighters and police officers grabbing dinner during their shifts are often treated to a meal, a gesture that reflects the owners’ gratitude and values.

important that our local neighbors know we’ll always take care of them too.”

The energy at Tipsy Tuna shows no signs of slowing down. Sullivan and Casson are always planning new menu items, ensuring there is always something fresh to try. They are also looking at expanding the outdoor space, with visions of a patio and possibly an outdoor bar, further extending the easygoing, coastal vibe that the restaurant’s name so perfectly represents.

In just a short time, Tipsy Tuna has grown into a gathering place where laughter is easy, meals are memorable and the experience is all about enjoying life by the coast.

DIVE IN

“It just sends me over the moon when I see locals coming back time and again,” Sullivan says. “Of course we want to welcome visitors, but it’s equally

Tipsy Tuna Bar & Grill

8520 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island

E Tipsy Tuna of Oak Island

As Sullivan puts it, “At the end of the day, we just want people to feel welcome here, like they’re part of our family. If we can give them good food, good service and a comfortable place to relax, then we’ve done our job.” 

Glass Act

Southport artist Debbie Appleby transforms light and color into everchanging works of stained and fused glass — and inspires others to do the same.

BY JONATHAN PATTISHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA COCKFIELD

AAt the Leland Cultural Arts Center summer market, Debbie Appleby’s booth is a fantasia of light and color. Her glass creations shine out in electric blues, metallic greens and bright yellows, shifting gracefully as the sun and shade dance behind them.

“What I always tell people with stained glass is that, depending on the time of day, season of year, degree of light that comes through, and exterior versus interior, it’s an everchanging piece,” she says.

And Appleby knows a thing or two about change. She’s been through quite a lot of it herself.

The Ohio native spent most of her professional life as an educator.

PHOTO BY JONATHAN LEE PATTISHALL

After moving to South Carolina and retiring from teaching in 2017, she took a job at the South Carolina Artisans Center in Walterboro, where she began taking classes in stained glass. This change in jobs led to a change in artistic focus. She had made ceramic art for years, but she quickly fell in love with glass and rededicated herself.

Above: Appleby creating a bit of magic in her glass studio; at right, "In the Potter's Hands," one of Appleby's early stained glass creations.

Two more changes followed in quick succession. Appleby changed out South for North Carolina, relocating to Southport in January of 2020. And a couple of months later COVID changed the whole world from open to closed.

“I spent every day in my studio learning, testing, experimenting and studying fused glass,” she says.

Luckily, her studio was at home, allowing her to perfect her craft through the long months of lockdowns.

As Appleby explains, most glass art is characterized as either stained glass or studio glass. Stained glass refers to the twodimensional designs that are created by cutting individual pieces

of colored or textured glass and attaching them together with solder to form patterns and images. These pieces are meant to be backlit — examples include the colorful windows in a church or the hanging suncatchers for sale at Appleby’s booth.

“Think of it like you’re building a puzzle, but you are making every single puzzle piece in stained glass,” Appleby says. “And they’ve got to fit like a glove, because if they don’t, the solder isn’t going to do what you want it to.”

Studio glass, on the other hand, refers to three-dimensional pieces like decorative bowls and sculptures, which can be made using numerous different techniques. One of these techniques, fused glass, is a particular forte for Appleby. She explains how she gets patterns into fused works by laying out glass strings onto clear glass sheet and then firing them in her kiln to create a new piece of glass. This new piece then

must be cut, rearranged and refired in the kiln to get geometric designs, such as the chevrons and concentric squares that decorate the stunning bowls and plates for sale at her booth.

Appleby lists off some of the styles and inspirations she draws on for her work: mid-century modern, Art Nouveau, Frank Lloyd Wright and, of course, the most famous name in glass art, Louis Comfort Tiffany.

“My two loves are Tiffany and Frank Lloyd Wright,” she says. “It’s just about exploring all of it and having fun with it.”

Though Appleby technically retired from teaching eight years ago, she could not leave it behind entirely. She currently serves as the instructor for three fused glass classes and one stained glass class at the Brunswick Community College campus in Southport, and she has also led glass courses at Leland Cultural Arts

Center. In fact, one of her former students dropped by her booth at the art market in Leland to check out her new items and praise her teaching skills.

“One of the best teachers I’ve ever had,” Linda Adams says of Appleby. “She’s amazing.”

Adams thought Appleby was such a good instructor, she was willing to drive from her home in Leland all the way to Southport for Appleby’s courses in stained glass and mosaic glass.

class,” she says.

“She’s encouraging; you just never make a mistake in her

However, most of Appleby’s time is still given to crafting rather than teaching. At her home studio she has three different kilns with which to test out new techniques and materials for fusing glass, and she also builds custom stained-glass windows for homes in Southport, St. James and other Brunswick County locales. The work keeps her busy, but it’s also a passion, so there’s no way it can feel like busy work.

“I wish I had discovered glass 40 years ago,” she says. 

To take a course with Debbie Appleby K applebyartglass.com K brunswickcc.edu

Appleby’s works are sold at Timeless Treasures in Southport ArtExposure in Hampstead Piedmont Craftsmen Gallery in Winston-Salem

Appleby can be found at local art markets. Just look for the eye-catching shimmers of light and color.

THE HOMEBUILDERS’ HOME

When Todd and Colleen Tanck of SeaCoast Homes built their own home, they also built the perfect lifestyle, combining craftsmanship, creativity and comfort in an award-winning waterfront haven.

BY MELISSA SLAVEN WARREN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT MCGRAW

When the Brunswick County Parade of Homes judges made their rounds in 2023, few expected a $1.4 million house at 2805 West Yacht Drive to outshine a brand-new $3 million oceanfront estate. But that is exactly what happened. The home not only claimed Best Island Home, but also showcased something even more remarkable: It was designed, built and is lived in by the same people.

Todd and Colleen Tanck, the husband-and-wife team behind SeaCoast Homes on Oak Island, are the creators and the homeowners. For them, the house is more than a residence; it is a living portfolio of what happens when craftsmanship, creativity and personal vision converge.

“As the builder, we built a top-quality house,” Todd says. “As the owners, the house has everything. It’s a reflection not just of us personally, but of us as builder and designer.”

Set on an oversized lot with sweeping views of the Intracoastal Waterway, the couple designed every angle to capture the water and maximize an outdoor lifestyle.

“This home, as with all of our homes, was designed for the lot,” Todd says. “With the ICW views, we wanted to make sure the living room and the master are all facing the water, with a big deck and a huge, screened porch.

The front elevation of the home, with a large screened porch to the main entry and an open-air pergola with fountain and fire table; inset, proud owners Colleen and Todd Tanck of SeaCoast Homes in their kitchen

Because of the larger backyard, we were able to create an outdoor oasis with a pool, outdoor bar, retractable shade, grassy areas and lots of landscaping.”

That blend of functional planning and site-sensitive design has become their hallmark, but this house also gave them the freedom to experiment.

In fact, the home began as a speculative build. Midway through construction, however, Todd and Colleen could not let it go. They fell in love with the design, made custom upgrades and claimed it as their own.

One of the unique features was raising the ceilings to 10 feet in the main living areas, which allowed them to use 8-foot solid custom doors and taller windows with transoms. Natural light floods the interiors, accentuated by Colleen’s refined sense of style.

“I built the house,” Todd says. “Colleen made it a home.”

The kitchen is the heart of the house. A dramatic space that blends elegance with utility, it features a massive 13-by-5-foot marble island with waterfall edges, complemented by a full marble slab backsplash and sides around the range. In total, the couple installed five slabs of marble, transforming the space into what Colleen calls the home’s “wow moment.”

Clockwise from top, The view just inside the main entry into the living area, an open-concept floorplan to the kitchen; the working side of the kichen island; the screened porch on the front of the house.

Floating shelves with built-in lighting replace traditional upper cabinets, giving the room a light, modern profile, while a sous kitchen in the pantry offers practical prep and storage space.

“We really wanted to make this a showpiece,” Todd says. “When you walk in the front door, the kitchen is what strikes you first.”

The couple’s love of experimentation also shines in their use of lighting, such as toe-kick

and systems, Colleen guided the design direction. She describes their shared philosophy as coastal elegance, an approach that feels timeless and neutral but polished with touches of luxury.

“I tend to decorate more monochromatically,” she says. “A lot of what we do is spec builds, so I wanted something that appeals to a large audience but still feels custom. For me, that always includes a little bit of bling, anything shiny or glittery. I love to reflect the light in every room.”

lights in the kitchen, pantry and master suite. Shower niches are illuminated with subtle LED strips. Even the ceilings feature details that play with light in unexpected ways. While Todd focused on structure

That purposeful touch shows up in unexpected places like the French factory chandelier found on a trip to Georgetown, seahorse door handles from the Philippines

in the master bathroom, and shimmering surfaces that catch the coastal light.

One of Colleen’s favorite rooms is the guest bathroom, a bold departure from traditional coastal palettes. It includes black and brass tiles, which is the anchor of the space.

“I always want the half bath to be a surprise,” Colleen says. “It’s the one room most guests will see, so I want it to be memorable. The black and gold was a risk, but people really love it.”

The thoughtful detailing continues outside, where form and function come together in spaces made for coastal living. French doors connect the main rooms to expansive porches, while a pergola, privacy screening and thoughtful landscaping define the outdoor areas.

For Todd, the front porch is especially meaningful.

“It feels like a treehouse canopy,” he says. “It’s one of my

The half bath is a surprising blend of black and gold that leaves an impression on guests.

favorite places in the house. In the morning, it’s where I have coffee. At night, it’s where I want to sit with a drink and a cigar. You’ve got the boats going by on the ICW, the fans moving the air, and it’s just amazing.”

Even as the home overflows with custom finishes, its foundation is rooted in practicality. Spray foam insulation creates a tight envelope and adds strength. A whole-house dehumidifier ensures comfort and energy savings, while impact glass keeps the home quiet and secure.

Accessibility was also built into the design with an elevator prep, wider hallways and blocking for future grab bars — all things that include what Todd calls a “home you can mature into.” A whole-house generator and water filtration system

The master suite features a custom fireplace built-in.

round out the infrastructure.

For Todd, decades of experience have shaped the way every inch of this house came together. He once designed and built a tiny “park model” home, and that lesson in economy taught him that every square inch matters.

Above, the master and guest en suite baths; right, the lower level craft room and shop area and the man cave, which looks onto an outdoor bar and the pool.

“A quarter of an inch can make all the difference,” he says. “Don’t do a 4-foot hallway if a 44-inch hallway works just as well. Those inches can give you the space for a full refrigerator instead of a smaller one. We take every square foot seriously.”

That attention to detail helps explain why the home feels larger than its 1,925 square feet. Visitors often guess it is closer to 2,400.

It also reflects a lifetime in the business. Todd has been building for 41 years, since he was a 19-year-old painter asking questions on job sites. Colleen, a lifelong design enthusiast who devoured Architectural Digest as a teenager, joined him full-time about a decade ago.

Together for nearly 40 years as a couple, they have built

not only a business with six employees and a showroom for clients, but also SeaCoast Homes, the Oak Island company they continue to grow and shape through projects like this one.

This house, however, is not just another project. It’s their own dream realized.

“We know we’re not going to get back what we put into this house,” Todd admits. “But that’s not the point. For us, it’s about experimenting, playing with ideas and creating something extraordinary. And as homeowners, it’s a joy to live in.”

The couple’s vision and craftsmanship speaks to their skills as professionals in the home-building arena.

Colleen summed it up best: “This house epitomizes Coastal Elegance. It’s upscale, it’s personal, and it’s ours.”

And for Todd, the reward comes not just from the award, but from the daily experience of living in a space they crafted with their own hands.

“It’s a phenomenal house,” he says. “I love everything about it. This house was about having fun and creating something special.” 

AWingman’s Mission

Chip Frazier’s steady training steps are part of a lifeline of hope for his son and other veterans across the nation.

BY RANDI JO ROOKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT MCGRAW

YYou have probably seen Oak Island resident Chip Frazier rucking along the beach at low tide, his backpack heavy with purpose. He is not just trying to keep his body in shape. He is a man on a mission.

This year Chip is preparing for the 50 Mile March, a 22-hour endurance walk from Lincoln to Omaha, Nebraska, raising funds and awareness to empower veterans facing mental health challenges and homelessness. The march is grueling, but for Chip, every step is a prayer and a promise: No one flies alone. Everybody needs a wingman.

Chip knows about the invisible wounds that veterans carry. He is a retired Air Force pilot and the father of Ed Frazier, who is also an Air Force veteran. Ed deployed seven times in support of the Global War on Terror (GWOT) in various locations throughout the Middle East. His experience with troops who were killed in action motivated him to design and construct a memorial to the 72 Nebraskans (his home state) who lost their lives in the GWOT. That memorial will be built in American Heroes Park in Bellevue, Nebraska,

and that is what started the father-son duo’s marching mission.

In 2017 Chip and Ed ran as a father-son team in the Beat the Heat Half Marathon, where they raised money for the memorial. The DJ at the event, Jay Miralles, was inspired by the duo and in 2020 initiated an endurance event to raise funds for veteran-focused organizations and empower homeless veterans. Miralles and five other patriots walked the first 50 Mile March from Lincoln, Nebraska, to the Nebraska Brewing Company outside Omaha in just 22 hours. Thus began the movement that has become the 50 Mile March Foundation.

While this movement was taking shape in Nebraska, Chip and his wife, Sue, moved to Oak Island. Shortly after, Ed started facing a new kind of battle. He began experiencing an array of symptoms attributed to his combat-related adjustment disorder and anxiety and was suffering deeply. Chip says, “His seven GWOT deployments had come home to roost.” After extensive testing ruled out a physical explanation, psychological testing eventually led to two and a half years

“

The march is grueling, but for Chip, every step is a prayer and a promise: No one flies alone. Everybody needs a wingman.

of therapy, a lifelong dietary plan and a coping regimen that provides Ed relief. The knowledge Ed gained in those years of testing and therapy motivated him to search for physical challenges that would test the success of his recovery. In 2022 Ed started training for his first 50 Mile March.

“I was thrilled that after so much time in agony, Ed was able to enjoy physical conditioning again,” Chip says. “And, like a good wingman, I could not tolerate the idea that the team that had run two half-marathons would not participate in this momentous occasion. I contacted Jay for approval to train covertly in North Carolina. My flight plan took me on 22 August 2022 to the steps of the State Capitol to surprise Ed and to march together with him to Omaha. We have marched four years since then, and Ed’s improvement is evident.”

Chip Frazier and his wife, Sue

Chip and Ed are kindred spirits, a close father-son duo during Ed’s childhood and then even closer as Ed became an adult. They both graduated from the Air Force Academy and both pursued Air Force careers. When Ed’s troubles began, Chip was distraught but unable to defend him against his invisible enemy. Marching together on the 50 Mile March was cathartic for Ed, but Chip relished being his wingman again.

“I was fulfilled knowing we were a team working to help other veterans in need,” Chip says. “The 50 Mile March restored his confidence. My greatest joy is seeing my son’s health return and watching him function as a vibrant member of society.”

For those curious what it looks like to train for a 50 Mile March, low tide on the beach at Oak Island offers ideal preparation. Chip started training in January and passed a qualification exercise in April by marching 20 miles with a 15-pound backpack at 17 minutes per mile. After qualifying, he started jogging and gradually increased the weight in his backpack to 25 pounds for 10-mile legs at 16 minutes per mile (about 3.75 mph).

Rucking on the beach in the heat of June and July helped prepare him for the August Nebraska heat. His hottest day on Oak Island in 2025 was the 27th of July, when the heat index was 129 degrees Fahrenheit on the beach. He carries 70 ounces of plain water in the hydration bladder in his backpack and 100 ounces of water with electrolytes attached to the outside of his pack. One month before the March, he returns to a 17-minute pace with 30 pounds on his back.

As physically ready as he can be for the 50-mile trek, the remaining challenge is the mental stamina necessary to push through the Nebraska heat, darkness and fatigue in formation. It resembles a military formation where finishing together is the heart of it all.

“At the onset of a 50-mile ruck, every marcher is full of resolve and fully committed to the cause,” Ed says. “However, several hours and dozens of miles later, the mind wanders, the body aches, resolve is tested, and commitment wanes. Then the mind loses focus, and aches devolve into excruciating pain … and suffering seeps in … deeply. But at some point, each marcher is reminded they are surrounded by like-minded patriots who are suffering equally. And the realization that no one is alone compels each marcher. Mental clarity is restored and physical strength is renewed… and camaraderie is born.”

Ed continues, “Shared misery and trauma forge unparalleled bonds among those who suffer together — a phenomenon known all too well by veterans. Unfortunately, some veterans lose sight of their teammates and perceive they are alone, which leads to greater suffering. The 50 Mile March allows participants to symbolically experience misery

and trauma, form bonds with each other and discover first-hand that we cannot allow our struggling veterans to fly solo.”

That belief in teamwork does not end with the march, it extends to every corner of life, especially here at home. The value of collaboration has long been part of Chip’s heart for our community and is a significant reason he ran for Oak Island Town Council this year.

As Southport and Oak Island recently experienced, every community has individuals who suffer untold trauma. Some struggle with visible wounds that are easy to recognize, while others wrestle with hidden challenges that are harder to address.

“An effective community that employs its resources as a team is better able to identify and resolve mental health issues,” Chip says. “Without the team of experts who successfully treated my son, the outcome could have been dire.”

Across the country, countless service members quietly carry the unseen burdens of war. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, roughly 1 in 5 veterans of recent conflicts experience symptoms of PTSD, though many never seek help,

seeing it as a reflection of weakness or brokenness, or never even realizing they need help. It is simply the human cost of serving and sacrificing for others. Chip’s story is a reminder that what begins in pain can, through love and perseverance, become a mission of hope.

And this father-son duo — which became a trio for two years when Ed's son, Beck, also marched — embodies the spirit of teamwork. In the last few years, these gentlemen (called Team Legacy) have raised more than $46,000 for veterans’ causes and have been an inspiration to many along the way. They are especially excited about the 50 Mile March Foundation’s vision to create the first Community of Hope, a tiny home community to help veterans in need of housing, support, job skills and healing.

The 50 Mile March Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, raised $738,110 in 2025 and purchased more than 7 acres in Bellevue, Nebraska, where the first Community of Hope will be built. Chip and Ed hope it will be just the beginning, with communities like it springing up across the nation and, hopefully, someday in Brunswick County.

Alongside his promoting and marching, Chip is a member of Oak Island Elks Lodge 2769, which has a very active veterans’ group. He is grateful to live in a community that has a heart for veterans.

There are seven American Legion posts in Brunswick County, all actively rallying for veterans. For example, American Legion Post 454 and its Auxiliary Unit support Stop Soldier Suicide and the Vincent A.

Simonetti Memorial Scholarship.

The area also has four local Veterans of Foreign Wars posts, like VFW Post 10226, which supports several local organizations, including At Liberty Connections, Coastal Horizons’ Save a Vet program and the Brunswick County Homeless Coalition, all of which serve and support local veterans.

Another essential resource is the Veterans Crisis Line, available nationwide by dialing 988 and pressing 1 or by visiting VeteransCrisisLine.net.

Reflecting on what keeps he and his son motivated to march and serve others, Ed says, “Through our military careers and extensive service to our communities, my father and I recognize each other as lifelong servantleaders. The 50 Mile March commits us to a cause greater

PHOTO BY ERIC FRANCIS

PHOTO BY BOB GRANDPRE

The 50 Mile March in Nebraska

PHOTO BY ERIC FRANCIS

than ourselves — serving our veterans in need. In doing so, we strengthen our relationship through shared suffering, healing together and mutual support throughout the process. It is a sincere honor to be his wingman.”

It may be hard for some to believe, but Chip is 75 years young, the oldest to finish four consecutive marches, and the kind of wingman every pilot hopes to have. So, when you see him rucking along the beach, know that it is more than a workout. Every step he takes is a message that healing is possible and a prayer for those still fighting unseen battles. It can be a reminder that healing takes movement: steady collaboration, faithful endurance and neighborly love because no one was ever meant to fly alone.

Hip and knee pain shouldn’t hold you back from living life to the fullest. At Dosher Memorial Hospital, we’re proud to offer Mako SmartRobotics™ for joint replacement surgery. Mako has been shown to help patients experience less pain, a quicker recovery, and improved mobility. It’s one more way Dosher is making extraordinary care available right here at home.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

Veterans Crisis Line

Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one? You're not alone — the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call. Veterans Crisis Line is available nationwide by dialing m 988 and pressing 1 or by visiting K VeteransCrisisLine.net.

50 Mile March

To learn more, visit K 50milemarch.org.

To contact Chip Frazier k chipfrazier73@gmail.com

Josh Olvey, operator of the Outer Banks Boil Company Oak Island location

WITH Our EPIC Project, OUTER BANKS BOIL COMPANY EXTENDS ITS COASTAL HOSPITALITY BEYOND ITS SEAFOOD FEASTS, OFFERING ENTREPRENEURIAL SUPPORT, MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANCE AND RESTFUL FAMILY RETREATS FOR THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST.

Boiling Over Kindness with

BY RANDI JO ROOKS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA TORREY

On a Thursday night in late August, the dining tables were draped in bright cloths, mouths watered in anticipation and steaming pots were tipped out to a boisterous cheer as a smorgasbord of seafood and vegetables spilled across the tables. Smiles shone, hands reached in, and it was clear this was more than just a regular dinner.

“Every boil’s about creating memories, not just a meal. But this one was something more. IT

WAS EPIC.”

“Every boil’s about creating memories, not just a meal,” says Josh Olvey, operating manager for the Oak Island location of Outer Banks Boil Company. “But this one was something more. It was epic.”

What made it epic was not only the food, but also the family gathered around the table. The celebration was part of the first-ever EPIC Summer Family Retreat hosted outside of the Outer Banks. These retreats are the centerpiece of Our EPIC Project, the nonprofit arm of Outer Banks Boil Company created to give deserving families the chance to rest, heal and experience the joy of coastal living.

This year’s recipients were Virginia’s Sergeant Michael Murray, his wife, Shannon, and one of their six children. The

Oak Island community rallied around them, offering gift cards to local restaurants and shops, discounted rentals and a week designed to bring comfort and renewal.

“When we found out we were chosen, we were speechless,” Shannon recalls. “It felt surreal that someone thought of us in that way. There’s a lot that comes with serving in law enforcement: long hours, sacrifices and sometimes heartache. And to have our family recognized and cared for in this way was humbling and very emotional.”

Denise Khouri,  co-founder of Our EPIC Project and Outer Banks Boil Company’s “Chief Mom Officer,” says the retreat could not have happened without General Manager Josh Olvey. She describes Olvey as an incredible operator and, on a personal level, an outstanding human, someone who leads with care for staff, customers and community.

When Olvey brought Outer Banks Boil Company to Oak Island three years ago, he was drawn to its family-friendly atmosphere, relaxed pace and strong sense of community. Those same qualities made it the perfect place to host the Murray family.

“They may arrive as recipients,” Olvey says, “but they leave as family.”

The Outer Banks Boil Company team celebrates with 2025 EPIC Summer Family Retreat recipient Sergeant Michael Murray, his wife, Shannon, and one of their children (inset).

The Murrays were chosen from more than 40 nominations, narrowed down to five finalists. What set Sergeant Murray apart was the nomination submitted on behalf of his entire platoon, 16 men and women who serve under him. Their collective voice was a powerful testament to his character, dedication and leadership. The nomination also described the hardships he has faced in recent years, from being injured by a dog bite while on duty to being struck by a distracted driver while assisting a disabled vehicle. These challenges, combined with a lengthy hospital stay and the toll carried by his family, deeply moved the EPIC team.

From the moment the Murrays arrived, they felt embraced by Oak Island’s beauty and generosity. They called the island a slice of heaven and said a weight was lifted as soon as they stepped onto the beach. Their week was filled with simple joys: walking along the shoreline, laughing over dinners

out, watching the sunset together and remembering to slow down and savor life. The highlight, of course, was the Outer Banks Boil Company feast itself. The Murrays raved about the food, but said the best part was the feeling of being cared for by people they had never met. They met the

It Takes a Village

A VARIETY OF GENEROUS LOCAL DONORS AND BUSINESSES HELPED OUTER BANKS BOIL COMPANY (OBBC) OFFER ITS OUR EPIC PROJECT SUMMER FAMILY RETREAT FOR THE MURRAY FAMILY. OBBC GIVES A SHOUT OUT TO THE FOLLOWING:

Van Daughtry

Margaret Rudd & Associations, Realtors

Quicksand Beach Concierge

Handcrafted Massage

Oak Island Jungle Golf

Throw Baxe Axe House and Board Game Lounge

Jersey Mike’s Moore Street Oyster Bar

Pirate’s Deck

Provision Company Flavas Ice Cream

Food Lion

Old Bridge Diner

Hippie Chick Granola Co.

Ruby’s Coffeehouse & Eatery

Kai-Joe’s

Koko Cabana

Haag & Sons Seafood

Inergy Market

Angie’s Fresh Produce

Top, Josh Olvey; left, Matt Khouri, founder of Outer Banks Boil Company and Our EPIC Project.

Outer Banks Boil team, Denise, Matt, Josh, and others, and were so encouraged by their kindness and genuine care that they now consider them family.

It’s incredible what a pot of seafood can become. For the Murrays, it became a symbol of generosity and community, a reminder that a meal together can create lasting memories and ripple effects of hope.

“Emotionally, the week gave us a chance to recharge and reconnect as a family,” Shannon says. “Mentally, it reminded us how important rest is in the middle of hard seasons of life.

Sergeant Michael Murray (at right) and with members of his family and platoon (above).

Spiritually, it was a powerful reminder that God sees us and provides through the kindness of others.”

beach communities where the highs and lows of the tourist season have an impact on mental health, where resources were few, but communities are strong. They wanted to do more than write checks to causes. So they created Our EPIC Project, with a threefold mission to 1) support young entrepreneurs; 2) strengthen community mental health

And that is the heart of Our EPIC Project (Emitting Positive Impact Collectively). These retreats are more than vacations. They are reminders of hope, healing and the power of community. Or, as Shannon sums it up: “In a world that often feels divided, this trip was a reminder that there is still so much good.”

Outer Banks Boil Company began in Corolla, North Carolina, when UNCW graduate Matt Khouri launched the concept from his apartment. Today, the company has eight locations spanning from Ocean City, New Jersey, to St. Augustine, Florida, with Oak Island’s shop now in its third year.

It’s a company with a lot of heart, one that loves its coastal communities and looks for ways to give back. The founders recognized some of the unique challenges of living in seasonal

initiatives, and 3) share their beach communities by offering Epic Summer Family Retreats to deserving families.

Looking ahead, Outer Banks Boil Company hopes to bring the other aspects of Our EPIC Project to Oak Island as they have in their Outer Banks locations. One of their priorities is to promote a Mental Health First Aid training to Oak Island, equipping locals to recognize the early signs of distress, ask the right questions and connect neighbors with necessary resources.

So when you pick up an Outer Banks Boil Company seafood pot to spread across your table, or let the team cater and take care of every detail, remember that you are part of an epic story. Each boil can be more than a meal. It can be a memory in the making and a taste of the generous heart of this community. 

Honoree

Inspire Brunswick Forest

At Inspire Brunswick Forest “you deserve this,” is more than a motto. A 55+ community in Leland offering one- and twobedroom living options in tandem with an array of luxury amenities, Inspire Brunswick Forest promises vibrant and carefree living for its residents.

“We’re focused on our residents’ lifestyle experiences,” says Christy Chestnut, Liberty Senior Living regional director of active adults. “We have a robust enrichment program that keeps residents extremely active and engaged in their community.”

The maintenance-free lifestyle and concierge services at Inspire Brunswick Forest allow residents to spend time doing what they love and get to know the neighbors.

“[Our goal] is to make sure residents are connected, engaged and extremely active,” Chestnut says. “There’s something for everyone to do, and if someone doesn’t have a hobby when they come here, they’ll find one once they move in.”

Allowing residents to lean into a well-earned lifestyle that touts convenience and ease amid community, Inspire Brunswick Forest’s apartments have chef-inspired kitchens with granite countertops, an in-unit washer and dryer, vinyl wood flooring, stainless steel appliances, oversized closet space and private balconies.

The cottage residences mirror the same top-tier design elements as the apartments, but offer independent and space-seeking adults private entrances, maintenance-free landscaping and an attached garage.

TAKE A TOUR

Inspire Brunswick Forest 6146 Liberty Hall Drive, Leland (910) 408-7471

inspirebrunswickforest.com

ÎÚ @inspirebrunswickforest

When it is time to get out and about, residents do not have far to go, thanks to the array of amenities that set the stage for connection, relaxation and fun. Community amenities include a resortstyle pool, a creative arts studio, a salon, fire pits and grilling areas, a movie theater, a 24-hour coffee bar and wellmaintained green spaces. For the active set, there are plenty of ways to get moving — a yoga studio, pickleball and bocce courts, a wellness center and yard games. Even the pets can be pampered thanks to the on-site pet spa and pet park.

The Lifestyle Enrichment Program is the heartbeat of the Inspire Brunswick Forest community, filling each week with opportunities to connect, learn and have fun. Examples include fitness classes in the wellness center, art workshops in the creative arts studio, themed mix and mingle evenings, seasonal celebrations, guest speakers and special outings.

Residents enjoy weekly traditions like continental breakfasts, arts and crafts, Wild Card Wednesdays, Thursday socials and Friday movies plus annual events like Casino Night, Fall Fest, Luau celebrations and more.

At the core of this vibrant lifestyle is the friendly and committed onsite team who treat residents like family: Community Manager Lauren Cox, Assistant Community Manager Joe Zagar, Leasing Associate Debbie Jourdanais, Lifestyle Coordinator Tracy Beinke, Maintenance Supervisor Neil Ramsundar and Maintenance Technician Tim Rumrill.

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Keep showing us your Southport Oak Island spirit — share your moments, stories and snapshots by tagging Q #sptoki #lifeinbrunswickcounty @southportoakislandmagazine E #sptoki #lifeinbrunswickcounty @sptoki or email photos to: capture@lifeinbrunswickcounty.com

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Southport Baptist Church Prayer Vigil

September 28 at Southport Baptist Church

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZEB STARNES



Less than 24 hours after a mass shooting at American Fish Company in Southport, hundreds of residents and visitors gathered at Southport Baptist Church for a prayer vigil on Sunday, September 28. The shooting, which occurred at the waterfront bar on September 27, resulted in three deaths and multiple injuries. This was the city’s first mass shooting.

Local first responders and pastors led prayers for the victims, their families, the community and even the suspect. The crowd showed strong support for first responders and the police chief with standing ovations. Help and encouragement poured in from across the state and country. The large turnout at the vigil reflected Southport’s resilience and the community’s commitment to supporting one another through tragedy.

Governor Josh Stein Visits Southport Following Mass Shooting

September 29 at the Southport Community Building

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZEB STARNES

 Governor Josh Stein visited Southport on Monday, September 29, joining local law enforcement and community leaders following the devastating mass shooting that took place on September 27.

During his visit, Governor Stein delivered a heartfelt speech, gave updates on the suspect and addressed the community and the media about the situation. He went on to provide information on an approaching storm, sharing data on the State of Emergency he declared for North Carolina as the state prepared for Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Depression Imelda. Governor Stein's address took place at the Southport Community Building.

Generations Church Prayer Vigil

October 4 at the Southport Waterfront

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZEB

STARNES

 Generations Church hosted a community prayer vigil at the Southport Waterfront on October 4 to honor the lives lost in the mass shooting at the American Fish Company in Southport. The one-hour gathering brought community members together in remembrance of all the victims, including Joy Rogers, who was a beloved member of Generations Church. Attendees joined in prayer and offered support to the families affected and the entire community.

Sheriff Chism’s Flatfish Roundup

September 6 at Dutchman Creek Park

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZEB STARNES

 The 13th Annual Sheriff Chism’s Flatfish Roundup Tournament at Dutchman Creek Park in Southport drew 69 teams for a day of exciting competition. Boats lined up to offload their catches, which were then weighed and processed on site. Team Pork Chop took first place with a flounder weighing 9.95 pounds. The event showcased impressive fishing skills and brought together anglers from across the region to raise money for the Committee to Reelect Sheriff Chism.

7th Annual Southport Witches Ride

October 26 in Southport

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH

ALTMAN

 More than 400 participants hopped on their brooms (cleverly disguised as bikes) and cruised the streets during the 7th Annual Southport Witches Ride. Welcoming the witches this year were Southport watering holes Silver Coast Winery Tasting and Taproom, Royal James Rummery, The Tiki Tavern, Southport Tap and Cellar, Dot's on Howe, Haven, Cafe Koa & Market, Provision Company and The Mullet Bar. After a day of cackling and togetherness, the event culminated in a lively Wolfshäger Hexenbrut dance held at Fort Johnson.

Dosher Foundation Gala 2025

September 26 at the Homer E. Wright Event Center in St. James

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZEB

STARNES

[01] Grace Edwards, Dosher Trustee Randy Jones [02] Dosher CEO Linda Stanley and family [03] Carolyn Hankins, Ron Thompson, Lois Thompson [04] Gala Co-chairs Dr. Joe Pat Hatem and Tish Hatem [05] Woodie Wilson, Linda Wilson [06] Dosher Trustee Linda Pukenas, Dr. Paul Armstrong, Becky Armstrong, Janet Fortney, Scott Fortney [07] Novella Nichols, Paul Nichols [08] Derek Pickett, Lynette Pickett [09] Frank Popelars, Peggy Popelars

 Dosher Memorial Hospital Foundation held its 15th annual Gala on September 26, raising more than $84,000 for the mammography capital campaign to purchase a new, state-of-the-art mammography machine. Over 200 guests enjoyed the black-tie event at the Homer E. Wright Event Center in St. James, supported by 73 sponsors and co-chaired by Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Hatem. The upgrade to a high-definition mammography unit aims to improve diagnostic accuracy, patient safety and comfort while maintaining Dosher Hospital’s leadership in breast imaging technology. The Foundation, established in March 2010, continues to support the hospital through community fundraising.

Up Your Arts 4th Annual Cool & Fancy Gala

September 6 at the Homer E. Wright Event Center

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL

 Up Your Arts' 4th Annual Cool & Fancy Gala was themed “Seas the Arts!” Guests enjoyed a lively evening filled with entertainment by Uptown Easy, a buffet dinner and a variety of drinks, including a special bourbon bar. Attendees were welcomed into a vintage travel-themed wonderland, complete with boarding passes and a gangplank entrance.

The night featured fundraising

RITENOUR

opportunities, including a grand raffle for a luxury cruise, several other raffles for prizes like an electric bike, Shibumi Shade and Dinner for a Year at local restaurants.

The annual event raises funds for Up Your Arts, a nonprofit organization with a mission to support and enhance the creative and performing arts throughout the greater Southport area.

[01] Brad Sevaldson, Katrina Shinn, Jim Shinn [02] Ben Styers, Pat Styers [03] Joanne Hennessy Thompson, Greg Uthoff [04] Steve Kraver, Karen Kraver [05] Kay Waddell, Linda Steinhoff, Dave Waddell, Dale Steinhoff [06] Wendy O’Connor, Tara Carr [07] Morgan Brantley, Chad Rector, Cindy Stafford [08] Anne Scalise, Michael Scalise [09] Amy Russo [10] Ben Smith, Kristie Smith [11] David Bigelow, Gloria Bigelow

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AMERICAN FISH CO.

Photo captured by Rebecca Bralley