Neighbors of
Cover photo by G. Frank Hart
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Call Us (910) 769-0104
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PUBLICATION TEAM
Publisher: Debby Daigle
Content Coordinator: Doreen Sargente
Designer: Jong Vang
Contributing Photographer: G. Frank Hart Photography
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Contact: Debby Daigle
Email: ddaigle@bestversionmedia.com
Phone: (910) 443-3199
FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS:
Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month. Email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: dsargente@bestversionmedia.com
NEIGHBORHOOD SUBMISSION INFORMATION:
HelloFriendsandNeighbors!
As we turn the calendar to June, it feels like summer is finally stepping onto the stage. If summer were a play, June would certainly be its opening act. The days grow longer, the evenings slower, and our neighborhoods seem to come alive in a whole new way.
Lately, when I’ve asked neighbors how they feel about summer arriving, the answers usually fall into one of two categories—hope or dread! Hope for beach days, backyard gatherings, vacations, and sunshine… and perhaps a little dread over the heat, humidity, and hurricane forecasts that seem to arrive right alongside the season. But no matter where you fall, there’s something undeniably special about this time of year in coastal North Carolina.
June also brings us the summer solstice—the longest day of the year and a beautiful reminder to slow down and appreciate the abundance of light around us. Whether you’re enjoying an early morning walk, or gathering with friends and family, summer has a way of reminding us to savor the simple moments.
Speaking of family and connection, our feature story this month is one you won’t want to miss. Cheers to the Ruggieros highlights a family whose lives have been shaped by travel, service, community, and adventure. Whether they’re taking over a taproom, coaching basketball, or hosting neighbors around the table, Donna and Bruce Ruggiero embrace life with energy, generosity, and heart. Be sure to read their inspiring story on page 8.
Are you on the communication committee for your neighborhood? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to your neighbors. Email dsargente@bestversionmedia.com
Content
December
January
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
I’d also like to extend a warm welcome to several new sponsors joining the Neighbors of Leland family this month. Please help us welcome:
• Paula Clarity of Clarity Law Firm, an estate planning firm dedicated to helping families prepare for the future
• Keyrenter Property Management, committed to property management excellence
• Oriental Rug & Carpet Cleaning, your local carpet cleaning professionals with more than 50 years of combined experience
• Southeastern Pet Cremation, providing caring service with integrity and compassion during a di cult time for pet owners
We are grateful for the businesses that continue to invest in and support our local communities.
And of course, June also means Father’s Day. To all the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, mentors, and father figures who guide, support, encourage, and love so deeply—thank you. We hope you enjoy a day filled with appreciation, laughter, and time spent with those who matter most.
Wishing you a joyful start to summer and many bright days ahead.
Doreen Sargente Content Coordinator
Debby Daigle Publisher
Ciao,
© Best Version Media
JUNECALENDAROFEVENTSOFEVENTS
Friday, June 5
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES SOUNDS OF SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
@ Leland Municipal Park
Live outdoor music with open lawn seating — bring chairs, blankets, and snacks.
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Cost: Free
Saturday, June 6
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES CAROLINA BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL
@ Carolina Beach
All-day beach music festival featuring live bands right on the sand — a local summer kickoff tradition.
Time: Typically late morning through evening
Cost: Free
Saturday–Sunday, June 6–7
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES FLAG DAY AT BATTLESHIP NC
@ Battleship North Carolina, Wilmington
Explore the historic battleship while celebrating Flag Day with interactive exhibits and activities.
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Included with admission
Sunday, June 7
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES SUNDAES & TIE DYE FESTIVAL
@ The Bend, Wilmington Sweet treats, artisan vendors, live music, and hands-on tie-dye fun for kids.
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Free admission
Saturday, June 13
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES RIVERFRONT FARMERS MARKET
@ Downtown Wilmington Riverwalk
Fresh produce, local goods, and live music in a lively waterfront setting.
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Free
Thursday, June 11
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
JR. JOLLY MON FISHING EVENT
@ Ocean Isle Beach
Kid-focused fishing tournament designed for younger anglers to enjoy the sport.
Time: Morning event
Cost: Registration required
Friday–Sunday, June 12–14
JOLLY MON KING CLASSIC FISHING TOURNAMENT
@ Ocean Isle Beach
Family-friendly fishing tournament with activities and community atmosphere.
Time: Daily events vary
Cost: Registration for participants; spectators free
Friday–Sunday, June 12–14
SPANISH MACKEREL OPEN
@ Wrightsville Beach
Offshore fishing competition with community viewing and coastal fun.
Time: Varies
Cost: Spectator viewing free
Friday–Sunday, June 19–21
CAPE FEAR BLUES FESTIVAL
@ Wilmington (multiple venues)
Three-day music festival featuring local and national blues artists.
Time: Afternoon and evening performances
Cost: Some free events; ticketed shows available
Friday–Sunday, June 19–21
NORTH CAROLINA TREASURES WEEKEND
@ Bald Head Island
Celebration of local culture, food, history, and art in a scenic coastal setting.
Time: Events throughout the day
Cost: Varies by activity
Saturday, June 20
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT
@ Leland Municipal Park
Family movie under the stars — bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Time: Begins at dusk (~8:30 PM)
Cost: Free
Sunday, June 21
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
FAMILY DAY AT THE MUSEUM
@ Cameron Art Museum
Hands-on art activities and interactive exhibits designed for kids.
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Included with admission; free for members
Saturday, June 27
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
RIVERFRONT FARMERS MARKET
@ Downtown Wilmington Riverwalk Weekend market with food vendors, crafts, and entertainment.
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Free
Sunday, June 28 – Saturday, July 4
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
NORTH CAROLINA
4TH OF JULY FESTIVAL
@ Southport Waterfront
One of the state’s oldest Independence Day celebrations featuring parades, vendors, live music, and fireworks.
Time: Events scheduled daily; parade and fireworks highlight the week
Cost: Many events free; some ticketed activities
July 2026 (through July 7)
Wednesday, July 1
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
4TH OF JULY FESTIVAL
BEACH DAY
@ Oak Island
Games, contests, music, and beach activities as part of the festival week.
Time: Daytime event
Cost: Free
Friday, July 3
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
PRE-INDEPENDENCE DAY CONCERT
@ Wilmington Riverfront Park
Live music leading into holiday celebrations.
Time: Evening (~6:00 PM)
Cost: Free
Saturday, July 4
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES INDEPENDENCE DAY
PARADE & FIREWORKS
@ Southport Waterfront
Classic small-town parade followed by a waterfront fireworks display.
Time: Parade morning; fireworks at dusk
Cost: Free
Sunday, July 5
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
RIVERFRONT SUMMER MARKET
@ Downtown Wilmington
Relaxed post-holiday market with local vendors and family-friendly atmosphere.
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Cost: Free
Tuesday, July 7
JAZZ AT CAM
@ Cameron Art Museum
Live jazz performance in an intimate setting.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed; typically $40–$60
© Best Version Media
Christmas
in(Almost)July
Craft Fair
BY JAN FEAR
Brunswick Forest Resident-Sponsored Craft Fair
Start your Christmas shopping early and support local crafters!
Christmas in (almost) July Craft Fair brings together 24 talented vendors* with handmade gifts, décor, treats, and more.
Date: Sunday, June 28th
Time: 10:00 - 8:00
Location: Fitness & Wellness Center, 2701 Brunswick Forest Parkway, Leland
*Santa’s workshop is full! All vendor spots
mistylynn-photography.com
https://www.facebook.com/Mistylynnphotographer?mibextid=ZbWKwL
June 27
Belville History Project
SUBMITTED BY GERALD DECKER, COMMANDER
LELAND VFW POST 12196 AND AUXILIARY
VFW Post 12196 is hosting an America 250 event in Belville Riverwalk Park on June 27 from 10am until 2 pm. The purpose of this event is to celebrate America 250, give younger vets an opportunity to join us and bring their families, and to seek your input for a Time Capsule and history of the Town of Belville. We need your story of living here. Bring pictures, your stories, and stories that no one knows about the area. Any picture of historical significance from anywhere in Brunswick County is welcomed. A contribution of any kind will be attributed to you in the book on this project.
All proceeds will go to a college fund for the students who write the book. If you are unable to attend, please send your comments or pictures to vfwpost12196@gmail.com.
© Best Version Media
Learning from the Masters
BY NICOLE WELLER
It’s truly an honor to be able to walk the hallowed ground at Augusta National and this year I had an opportunity to return to this majestic event and course and watch the masters at work. I always enjoy observing and learning and thought I’d share some fun tidbits from this year’s pilgrimage.
Based on Vision54’s concepts, the area before entering into a shot is called the Think Box (plan, decide and most importantly Commit 100%) and the area over the shot is called the Play Box (you guessed it, where the golfer actually plays the shot, no more thinking). The Play Box is typically a 3-9 second box. The players I timed took about 22 seconds on average overall from start to finish with their pre-shot routines which is about standard, about 10 of which were in the Play Box. My entire master’s degree thesis (that I eventually presented at conferences at the University of St. Andrews, New Orleans at AAASP and at the University of Ulster in N. Ireland) was on the timing and content of a pre-shot routine, fun stu for me about e ciency and e ectiveness.
I love going to the practice facilities to watch the players warm up (before) or practice (after). Most of the Tour players had their coaches with them for recalibration and confirmation. If the best of the Best need feedback, it’s truly a sign that golf is a tough game in constant flux. We can never ‘fix’ a swing but can certainly learn to manage it as the needle moves a bit left or right or sits right where we want it for a while but never forever as a variable human being.
When I was watching players on the putting green, I saw 4 out of 5 players using feedback, mostly mirror drills, mirror and gate drills, gate drills, yardstick or alignment aids and tees. Practicing without feedback is like driving a car without a speedometer. At the driving range I saw 4 out of 6 players using feedback, mostly alignment rods on the ground or on plane angles and data trackers. I learned a cool swing plane drill that I’ve already used successfully with a student. One player went back to make two swings within the shafts then went up to hit a shot and then repeated. Over and over again with pace and tenacious patience. I often tell golfers to practice as much as they want to improve… practice a lot to improve a lot, a little for a little improvement and no practice for negligible improvement.
I love positioning myself about 20 yards down on the teeing ground from where the players let that drive loose, the ball sounds like a rocket taking o , one of my favorite sounds. Mine don’t sound quite like that, LOL!
I love hearing the crowds erupt in di erent parts of the course, the Gestalt of the event is part of our golf culture and world.
I saw a player make a 9 on hole 15 after hitting two balls onto the green that rolled back into the water, then hitting over the green and having to chip on and two putt. The game is hard, even for the best. We usually see the best players that week on tv and don’t realize how many putts and shots are missed during a round of golf. We own it and move on.
I’d like to see pace of play pick up. Having played highly competitive amateur golf, I’ve been in groups that were put on the clock due to the pace rules. We had to make our decisions within a specific timeline and I think the best players can too. Learning how to gather data in a timely manner and not get overloaded with current options will help the game move along for both professionals but also the recreational Club golfer. Many Clubs have pace of play policies in e ect for 4 hour or 4 hour 15 minute rounds. Actually, the game itself takes only 2-3 minutes to move the ball (let’s say 100 shots times 2 seconds… 120 seconds), so the rest of the time is what happens or is wasted between shots. No one wants a 5-6 hour round. Gather the data e ciently and then go golf that ball!
It certainly was quite an event this year and an exciting ending… I wonder if Rory McElroy might be the first player to three-peat if he can pull o another win next year? Either way, our 2026 golf season is kicked o and in full swing, Happy Golfing!
Nicole Weller instructs local area golfers at Compass Pointe Golf Club in Leland. For more information on Nicole and her tips / videos, visit www.nicoleweller.com.
© Best Version Media
Cheers Ruggiero’s!
TO THE
By Doreen Sargente
If you’ve ever stepped into the Brunswick Beer Xchange (BBX) in Leland, you’ve likely felt the hum of energy that defines the place. At the center of it all is Donna Ruggiero, a woman who doesn’t really “do” sitting still. Along with her husband, Bruce, Donna has turned a postretirement pivot into a community staple, but their story actually begins more than forty years ago.
Donna and Bruce Ruggiero’s story is the kind that feels like it was meant to be. They met in 1982 at Nightwork Lounge, a local Long Island bar. Donna was still in high school, and Bruce was home on leave from the Air Force. Their introduction came through a mutual friend, Roger, who invited Donna over. Bruce asked if she wanted to go to a wedding. “Whose?” she asked. “Ours!” he replied The next night, the bar was decorated for an impromptu wedding ceremony, complete with Roger dressed all in black performing the ceremony, Donna’s friend Kara as maid-of-honor, and “Always and Forever” playing on the jukebox. That playful start was the beginning of a lifelong partnership. Bruce was discharged from the Air Force in September 1982, and they’ve been together ever since, marrying in 1987.
The couple originally lived in Merrick, New York, in the home Donna grew up in, staying there to provide support to her mother after her father passed away. They moved to Brunswick Forest, North Carolina, in 2021, joining family who had relocated there during the pandemic.
Their careers have been as dynamic as their personal lives. When they first started dating and for a while after
marriage, both worked at the Rusty Scupper restaurant in Westbury—Bruce as head line chef and Donna wearing every other hat from cashier to hostess to bookkeeper, while attending Nassau Community College for an associate degree in paralegal science. Donna’s ambition led her to Manhattan, where she worked at a boutique intellectual property firm and later at Kenyon and Kenyon, a renowned IP firm, before joining The Estée Lauder Companies in 1992.
Balancing work, school, and family wasn’t easy. While working full-time as a paralegal, Donna earned her bachelor’s degree in International Studies at CW Post, Long Island University. Her daughter, Jessica, was born in December 1993—just a day after Donna sat for a final exam. “My professor was very nervous,” she recalls, “he just wanted to make sure I didn’t give birth in his classroom.”
Donna’s career at Estée Lauder flourished, moving from paralegal to attorney after she completed law school at Brooklyn Law School at night, despite personal challenges including her husband’s emergency surgeries. After graduating near the top of her class, she returned to Estée Lauder as Associate Counsel and Executive Director of intellectual property, traveling the world and working on cases she had only dreamed of handling.
Retirement brought a new chapter. The Ruggieros were inspired to move south after visiting family who had relocated to Brunswick Forest during COVID. By the end of 2021, they were living in an apartment while their
Photos provided by the Ruggiero Family
Donna and Bruce on a recent trip to New Zealand Annual Oyster Roast
© Best Version Media
home was being built. Donna, a woman with endless energy, knew she didn’t want to sit still. The opportunity came unexpectedly—Brunswick Beer Xchange, a craft beer taproom and bottle shop near their apartment, was for sale. “I told my husband I wanted to buy the business. He thought I was out of my mind!”
Donna o cially took over BBX on November 1, 2023. The taproom features 40 taps, 12 coolers of craft beer from local, national and international breweries, wine, cider, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Food trucks rotate weekly, keeping things lively. But what sets BBX apart is Donna’s vision of making it a hub for charitable events. From autism fundraisers and breast cancer support initiatives to pet adoption drives and food pantry cooko s, BBX combines craft beer with giving back.
“We’ve made contributions to organizations including Toys for Tots, Honor Flight of North Carolina, Make-AWish Foundation, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, as well as local veterans groups,” Donna says. She’s passionate about supporting local businesses and artists, from murals to furniture and popcorn. Beyond charity, BBX hosts weekly poker games, trivia nights, dart leagues, potluck dinners, art classes, comedy nights, music events, and more—a full calendar that keeps the community engaged.
Supporting this vibrant hub is a dedicated team led by manager Catherine Corrigan, a certified Cicerone, along with bartenders and volunteers. Donna credits her “village” of friends, family, and patrons for the success of BBX.
Sports have also been a significant part of their lives. Donna coached basketball for over 13 years, while her husband managed a youth basketball league with over 600 players. Their daughter Jessica played at a high level, including representing the U.S. in Austria at the World Youth Games at just 16.
Travel and adventure remain a passion for the Ruggieros, often with family and friends. In the past year, they’ve explored Italy and taken a Mediterranean cruise. Upcoming trips include Australia and New Zealand. They also enjoy sharing their timeshare with loved ones, making travel a communal experience.
Family is central to the Ruggieros. Their daughter Jessica lives in New York, balancing a career as an assistant nurse manager in the ICU with running two businesses.
Her husband, James McManus, works as a custodial supervisor and volunteer firefighter. They share their home with a beloved English cream dachshund, Franklin, who the Ruggieros a ectionately call their grandpup Jessica and James are planning to relocate to Leland, continuing the family’s move south.
Community and neighborliness have shaped their Brunswick Forest experience. Donna and Bruce bought the last available lot in Parkview and quickly became part of a tight-knit network of neighbors who share meals, pool parties, and holidays. “We are so blessed to have such wonderful neighbors,” Donna says. Their new friends, combined with family from New York who also live nearby, have made their move a seamless transition.
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“IhavetheopportunitytoworkwithCatherine. Sheisveryknowledgeableandprofessional. Hercommunicationskillsareonpoint. Iwouldhighlyrecommendhertodoproperty managementwhenyouhaveaneed. Iguaranteeyouwillhaveapositiveexperience.”
-EdwardBaron.
Daughter Jessica, son in law James and grandpup Franklin
Ineverhaditinmy Ineverhaditinmy planstomoveoutof tomoveoutof NewYork,butthisis New thisis thebestdecisionwe we evermade.ever
Their home now serves as a halfway stop for family traveling between New York and Florida, and they delight in hosting friends, family, and even puppies.
Volunteering remains a core value for Donna. Back in New York, she coached youth basketball, volunteered with Girls Inc., food banks, beach cleanups, and mentored law students. Today, BBX allows her to continue this work through charity events without being tied to a single organization, combining her love of community, socializing, and giving back.
Travel, family, community, and service have defined the Ruggieros’ lives, along with a sense of adventure.
Whether it’s taking over a taproom, coaching a basketball team, or hosting a potluck, Donna and Bruce embrace life with energy and heart. As Donna says, reflecting on the path from Long Island to Brunswick Forest: “I never had it in my plans to move out of New York, but this is the best decision we ever made. Our friends from the north are still a big part of our lives, and our new friends here have become family.”
In every way, the Ruggieros exemplify a life well-lived: full of family, service, adventure, and, of course, a little fun along the way—sometimes with a cold craft beer in hand.
She Knows What She Wants. Knows
Does Anyone Else? Does Anyone Else?
If you are aging without a spouse or nearby family, your medical wishes deserve more than a document in a drawer. Your HCPOA is North Carolina’s first physiciandirected Healthcare Power of Attorney agent who truly knows you, so your voice is always protected.
Planning ahead is how you stay in control. Don’t leave your future to chance. By your design. Not by default.
© Best Version Media
BY DEBBY DAIGLE
PHOTO BY JOHN AND MAUREEN NOBLE
This is a photo of our yellow lab, Huck, and his best buddy Gus. They grew up together, so Gus the cat often thinks he’s a dog. Huck and Gus love their golf cart rides and often “campaign” for rides as depicted in this photo.
Enjoy!
John and Maureen Noble Compass Pointe
© Best Version Media
SUBMITTED BY LEXI BREUNIG
Halfway through the year, many of us feel a mix of accomplishment, fatigue or even discouragement. Some goals have been checked o , while others feel like they’ve slipped through the cracks. That’s exactly why a mid-year reset is so valuable. It gives you the chance to pause, take stock and refocus on what truly matters.
HOW TO ACTUALLY DO IT
1. Review what you set out to do. Pull up your goals, intentions or resolutions from January.
2. Ask yourself questions like:
• What accomplishments am I proud of so far?
• What goals no longer feel relevant or realistic?
• Which habits or routines are helping me, and which are holding me back?
• What brings me energy and joy, and what drains me?
3. Recalibrate your goals. Adjust them to fit your current priorities. Maybe your fitness routine needs a simpler approach, or work projects require a new strategy. Flexibility is key. A goal that evolves with you is more likely to stick than one that feels impossible.
4. Refresh your habits. Consider adding one habit that energizes you, removing one that drains you or carving out time for self-care and reflection. Small changes compound over time and can create meaningful progress.
5. Set your intention for the second half of the year. Use your reflections and adjustments to guide your actions, refocus your energy and finish the year stronger and more aligned with your vision.
Opening dates: Pumpkin Patch - September 25, 2026 Christmas Tree Lot - November 20, 2026
REAL ESTATE STATISTICS - APRIL 2026
BestVersionMediadoesnotguaranteetheaccuracyofthestatisticaldataonthispage.Thedatadoesnotrepresentthelistingsofanyoneagentoragencybutrepresentstheactivityoftherealestate communityinthearea.Anyrealestateagent’sadappearinginthemagazineisseparatefromthestatisticaldataprovidedwhichisinnowayapartoftheiradvertisement.
Southern Hospitality Starts with
Banana Pudding
SUBMITTED BY DEBBY DAIGLE
There’s just something about banana pudding that feels like home in the South. Maybe it’s the sweet smell of vanilla wafers softening between layers of creamy pudding and ripe bananas, or the memories of family gatherings, church suppers, and summer Sunday dinners where a big dish of banana pudding always seemed to disappear first. This classic Southern favorite is rich, comforting, and surprisingly simple to make — a timeless dessert that brings people together one delicious spoonful at a time.
MAKES: 15 SERVINGS | PREP TIME: 15 MINTUES | CHILLING: 7 HOURS = TOTAL TIME: 7 HOURS 15MINS.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 1/2 cups ice cold water
• 1 (3.4 oz.) box vanilla instant pudding mix
• 3 cups heavy cream
• 4 cups sliced barely ripe bananas, (see note)
• 1 (12 oz.) box Nilla Wafers
NOTES:
In a large bowl, beat together the sweetened condensed milk and water until well combined - about 1 minute. Add the pudding mix and beat well - about 2 minutes.
2. Cover and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or overnight. It is very important to allow the proper amount of time for the pudding mixture to set. It will be watery if you don’t let it set up long enough.
3.In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until sti peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until no streaks of
The reason the recipe says to serve within 8 hours is that the bananas will turn brown as they oxidize. There are a couple of things you can do to make not brown as fast:
1) Pick bananas that are barely ripe. If they are slightly green and the stem, those are perfect. These will tend to brown as fast.
2) Brush them with some lemon juice. Any fruit juice helps (pineapple, apple, orange). This can change the flavor slightly
pudding remain. Dessert can either be made in individual portions or in a large glass bowl with 4–5-quart capacity (a 9x13 baking dish also works).
4.To assemble dessert, arrange 1/3 of the Nilla wafers covering the bottom, overlapping if necessary. Next, layer 1/3 of the bananas, and 1/3 of the pudding mixture. Repeat twice more, garnishing with additional wafers or wafer crumbs on the top layer. Cover tightly and allow to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours - or up to 8 hours, no longer (bananas will start to brown).
so brushing them is better than soaking them. Even water neutralizes the ph and will slow down the browning if you rinse them in water.
3) Rinse them with club soda. The advantage here is that it won’t a ect the taste. Don’t use tonic as it has a bad taste.
4) Try to keep them airtight. The less contact with the air the less they will brown.
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Engageing Activities Assistance with Activities of Daily Living NOW Accepting Applications!
Rain or Shine, Our Community Showed Up
SUBMITTED BY DEBBY DAIGLE
What a wonderful weekend it was for our 2026 Health Resource Show, Home & Lifestyle Expo, and Outdoor Living Expo held May 2nd & 3rd at the Brunswick Forest Fitness & Wellness Center.
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the incredible vendors, sponsors, volunteers, entertainers, and residents who helped make these events such a success. Even though the rain poured down throughout much of Saturday, the enthusiasm from our local residents certainly did not wash away. We were thrilled with the tremendous turnout and the energy throughout the day as neighbors came together to learn more about the many businesses and services available right here in our community.
Sunday greeted us with beautiful sunshine and blue skies. While attendance was lighter, those who joined us came ready to engage, ask questions, and truly connect with our vendors. The conversations were meaningful, the networking was strong, and the weekend reminded us once again how valuable these community events are for bringing people together.
A special thank you goes out to William Marquardt for providing wonderful live music throughout the event weekend and helping create such a fun and welcoming atmosphere. We also appreciate Shuckin’ Shack for serving up crowd favorites and Milly’s Ice Cream for keeping everyone cool with delicious sweet treats. Most importantly, thank you to every business and organization that participated. Your support, professionalism, and commitment to serving our local communities are what make these events possible. We are grateful to partner with businesses that continue to invest in the people and neighborhoods of Leland and the surrounding area.
We hope you enjoy some of the highlights captured in the photos on these pages!
