Neighbors of
ONE MONTH IN SPAIN, A Lifetime of Memories
Cover photo by Doreen Sargente
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HelloFriendsandNeighbors!
Hello Neighbors of Leland!
I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new publisher of Neighbors of Leland, and I look forward to getting to know the wonderful residents of Magnolia Greens, Waterford, Compass Pointe, and Windsor Park.
PUBLICATION TEAM
Publisher: Debby Daigle
Content Coordinator: Doreen Sargente
Designer: Jong Vang
Contributing Photographer: G. Frank Hart Photography
ADVERTISING
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:
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
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.
Each of these communities has its own special character—from the beautiful golf course lifestyle of Magnolia Greens, to the scenic lakes and walking paths of Waterford, and the resort-style amenities (yes, even the famous lazy river!) that make Compass Pointe such a vibrant place to live. Together, they represent some of the most desirable neighborhoods in our region.
My goal for Neighbors of Leland is to give residents a voice in this neighborhood-focused publication by sharing stories about the amazing people who live here and highlighting the events and activities that matter most to you.
Joining me is Doreen Sargente, your new Content Coordinator. Doreen has a wonderful talent for uncovering meaningful stories within a community, and she has already begun laying the groundwork for what we hope will become a magazine you look forward to receiving each month.
Our feature story in this issue comes from Doreen herself, who opens up about her unforgettable five-week journey through Spain with The Good Life Abroad. Her travels o ered a chance to see the world through a new lens—one filled with discovery, friendship, and a deeper sense of balance. It’s a story that reminds us how meaningful it can be to explore new places, learn along the way, and return home with a renewed perspective.
Save the date!
On May 2nd and 3rd, Brunswick Forest will host the 4th Annual Home & Lifestyle Expo, expanded this year to include a Health Resource Show on Saturday, May 2nd, along with our Outdoor Living Expo. You can read more details about the event on page __.
Then on Sunday, May 3rd, the Home & Lifestyle Expo will feature many of our area’s top home remodeling and maintenance professionals. The day will also include live music from Bill Marquardt, shrimp cocktail and libations from Shuckin’ Shack
Thank you for being loyal readers of Neighbors of Leland. In the months ahead, I hope this publication becomes something you look forward to receiving—and that you’ll get involved by sharing your ideas and suggestions about what matters most in your community.
Enjoy these beautiful warm days—spring is in the air… and so is the pollen!
Keep those Kleenex close by!
HelloNeighbors! Ciao,
Debby Daigle Publisher
It is with incredible excitement that my publisher, Debby Daigle, and I announce that we are o cially taking over the helm of Neighbors of Leland! We are thrilled to expand our reach to the beautiful communities of Compass Point, Magnolia Green, Waterford, and Windsor Park.
Our mission is simple: to celebrate the people, stories, and connections that make our corner of North Carolina feel like home. Whether you’ve lived here for decades or just unpacked your first box, this magazine is a reflection of you
To kick things o , our upcoming debut issue features a very personal cover story. My husband and I spent an unforgettable five-week journey in Spain, and we can’t wait to share the photos, flavors, and lessons learned from our travels with all of you. We hope it inspires your next great adventure!
Do you have a neighbor with an extraordinary story? Whether they have a unique hobby, a fascinating career, or a heart for volunteering, we want to feature them! Help us highlight the faces that make Compass Point, Magnolia Green, and Waterford special.
Email me at dsargente@bestiversionmedia.com. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!
Doreen Sargente
Content Coordinator
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APRILCALENDAROFEVENTS
Sunday, April 5
HDWM ARTISAN MARKET
@ Historic Downtown Wilmington Local makers, handcrafted goods, live music, and waterfront strolling — easy, relaxed outing for all ages.
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Free to attend
Wednesday, April 8
JAZZ AT CAM
@ Cameron Art Museum
Live jazz performance in an intimate gallery setting.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed; typically $40–$60 with member discounts
Wednesday–Sunday, April 8–12
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
NORTH CAROLINA AZALEA FESTIVAL
@ Downtown Wilmington & Riverfront Parades, street fair, garden tours, vendors, and family activity areas throughout the week.
Time: Events run daily from late morning through evening; parade Saturday at 9:30 AM
Cost: Many events are free; some concerts and tours are ticketed
Friday–Sunday, April 10–12
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
AZALEA FESTIVAL STREET FAIR
@ Front Street, Downtown Wilmington Food vendors, handmade crafts, entertainment stages, and kid-friendly attractions.
Time: Friday 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Saturday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: Free admission; purchases optional
Saturday–Sunday, April 11–12
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
HERB & GARDEN FAIR
@ Poplar Grove Plantation Plants, artisan vendors, animals, and outdoor activities in a historic setting.
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: Small admission fee; children typically free
Thursday, April 16
LIVE! AT CAM CAFÉ
@ Cameron Art Museum
Free evening music in a relaxed café setting.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Free
Friday, April 17 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES THE BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE CONCERT
@ Wilson Center at Cape Fear
Community College
Surf classics and nostalgic favorites that span generations.
Time: 7:30 PM
Cost: Ticketed; pricing varies by seat
Saturday, April 18 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES SOUTHPORT SPRING FESTIVAL
@ Southport Waterfront Park
Arts and crafts vendors, live music, food booths, and coastal charm.
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Free to attend
Saturday, April 18 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES EARTH DAY CELEBRATION & HEALTHY KIDS DAY
@ Empie Park, Wilmington
Bounce houses, games, environmental exhibits, and hands-on activities.
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Free
Sunday, April 19 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES RACE FOR THE PLANET 5K & ONEMILE FUN RUN
@ Fort Fisher / Kure Beach Area
Family-friendly run/walk celebrating coastal conservation and fitness.
Time: 8:30 AM start
Cost: Registration fee required
Friday–Sunday, April 24–26 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
CAROLINA CUP
PADDLEBOARD FESTIVAL
@ Wrightsville Beach
Paddleboard races, demos, beach activities, and spectator fun.
Time: Daytime events; schedule varies
Cost: Spectator viewing free; race entry fees apply
Saturday, April 25
THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN
@ Wilson Center at Cape Fear
Community College
High-energy tribute concert celebrating classic Motown hits.
Time: 7:30 PM
Cost: Ticketed; pricing varies
Sunday, April 26 ⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
STRAWBERRY & WINE FEST
@ Sunset Beach
Fresh strawberries, vendors, live music, and springtime atmosphere.
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Admission fee; food and beverages additional
Friday–Sunday, May 1–3
STEEL MAGNOLIAS
@ Brunswick Little Theatre, Southport
Heartwarming community theatre production blending humor and friendship.
Time: Friday & Saturday 7:30 PM; Sunday 2:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed; community theatre pricing
Saturday-Sunday, May 2-3
HEALTH RESOURCE EXPO, HOME & LIFESTYLE EXPO, OUTDOOR LIVING EXPO
@Fitness & Wellness Center in Brunswick Forest
Time: Sat 11-2pm Sun 12-3pm
Free to the public
Thursday–Saturday, May 7–9
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
WILMA DASH & HEALTH FEST
@ Wilmington Riverfront
5K run/walk with a community health and wellness festival.
Time: Race begins in the morning; festival continues midday
Cost: Registration fee required
Friday–Sunday, May 8–10
⭐ BEST FOR FAMILIES
THE WIZARD OF OZ
@ Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Classic family musical following Dorothy’s journey down the yellow brick road.
Time: Evening performances at 7:30 PM; Sunday matinee at 2:00 PM
Cost: Ticketed; typically $25–$35 April Golf Opportunities for Women –LPGA Amateurs Cape Fear/Wilmington NC
APRIL GOLF OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN – LPGA AMATEURS CAPE FEAR/WILMINGTON NC
SATURDAY, APRIL 11, Sandpiper Bay, Sunset Beach, 9:20 AM 18holes/$61.
Non-members may golf twice before they decide if membership is right for them.
Visit: lpgaamateurswilmingtonnc.com for details and to register.
For questions, email lpgaamateurswilmingtonnc@yahoo.com
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Saturday May 2 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Join us in Brunswick Forest for a day dedicated to your health, wellness, and peace of mind! The Health Resource Show brings together a variety of trusted local healthcare professionals who are eager to share information, answer questions, and connect with our community.
Whether you’re looking for preventative care tips, wellness inspiration, or simply want to learn what’s available in our area, this event is for you
Sunday May 3 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Join us in Brunswick Forest for the Home & Lifestyle Expo designed to inspire, inform, and connect our Leland-area community! This event brings together trusted local experts in home improvement, remodeling, outdoor living, and more—all in one convenient place.
From interior updates and renovation ideas to outdoor spaces that extend your living area, you’ll have the chance to speak directly with professionals who understand homes in our area.
✓ Free and open to the public
✓ Informative, welcoming, and community-focused
✓ A great opportunity to connect, learn, and take charge of your health
We look forward to seeing you there—because a healthy community starts with informed neighbors.
✓ Featuring home, remodel & outdoor living experts
✓ Live entertainment
✓ Free and open to Leland area residents
✓ Learn, connect, and get inspired—close to home
Whether you’re planning a future project or just want to enjoy a great community event, we look forward to seeing you there!
Helping Hands for Wild Hearts:
Inside Morgan Creek Wildlife Rescue
BY VIVIEN FULMER
Have you ever had both a passion and a dream? Have you achieved this by yourself but wished you had help along the way? This is the story of Madge Mateo, founder of Morgan Creek Wildlife Rescue. She has been involved with all types of wildlife since 2008. Raccoons, opossums, squirrels, you name it. If it needed help, Madge was there.
But lately, baby deer have come under her radar. There are many misconceptions regarding fawns. Madge does give a Fawn 101 seminar teaching the general public the do’s and don’ts regarding these charming creatures. Oftentimes people see a fawn and think it’s abandoned. They have good intentions “rescuing” it but don’t realize the mother may be nearby foraging for food. You can imagine Mama returning and finding the baby gone! Other times a fawn or the mother may be injured. Any number of things can happen where a young deer may end up at Morgan Creek Wildlife. With the development of thousands of acres of woodlands into neighborhoods, all wildlife have been displaced. Coyotes running between houses and deer feasting in flower gardens are not nature’s way.
A fawn is indeed a baby who needs to be fed every four hours, just like a human baby. Lots of goat milk powder
mixed with water and bottle-fed. When a bit older, chopped up vegetables by the tray load. You can imagine what it’s like feeding several growing foundlings. Hay for bedding needs to be changed frequently, as if for babies in diapers. In the spring after the birthing months, Madge has her hands full and the challenge of caring for so many fawns is overwhelming.
Vivien and Terry Monnie were the first to step in to help bottle-feed. One day there was one, literally the next day there were five fawns. Lately, a group of Brunswick Forest residents have gathered to help and give relief from the care around the clock for these babies. This is a well-organized group who are willing to pitch in whenever needed. The fawns are adorable, but one needs to realize they are wild animals that will be released to be with their herd—living their lives as nature intended.
So many challenges! There are currently only two large “kennels” where the fawns can be housed. Since they are wild animals, medical help is limited, and help from veterinarians is much needed and would be greatly appreciated. In addition, the expense of housing, feeding, and supplies is huge. Thankfully, Morgan Creek Wildlife Rescue is a 501(c)(3) organization allowing tax-deductible monetary contributions and Qualified Charitable contributions from a retirement account.
Volunteering is satisfying, but the reality of dedication is a fact. Social, medical, and other appointments need to revolve around the day and time the volunteer has chosen. These babies need their feedings to survive. We need your help!
For more information or to find out how you can help, go to: MorganCreekWildlifeRescue.org
Lanvale Animal Hospital
Welcomes Two Experienced Veterinarians to Growing Medical Team
SUBMITTED BY DEB PETT, BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR
Leland, NC — Lanvale Animal Hospital is delighted to announce the addition of two accomplished veterinarians, Dr. Ashley Anderson and Dr. Marc Friedericks, who are joining Dr. Scott Pett in delivering exceptional, personalized veterinary care for dogs and cats in their community.
As an independently owned hospital, Lanvale Animal Hospital is deeply rooted in its commitment to serving pets and families with integrity, compassion, and medical excellence. The hospital is supported by a dedicated team of veterinary assistants and client service professionals who appreciate that the addition of the new doctors further strengthens the practice’s positive, collaborative culture. Team members share a genuine belief that their contributions make a meaningful di erence, and they recognize that Lanvale prioritizes not only its patients and clients, but also the well-being and professional growth of its sta .
With a shared commitment to goldstandard medicine delivered in a thoughtful, individualized way, Drs. Anderson and Friedericks align seamlessly with Dr. Pett’s philosophy of combining advanced medical care with strong relationships built on trust and communication.
Dr. Ashley Anderson brings 11 years of experience in general practice. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Zoology with a minor in Biomanufacturing from North Carolina State University and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2014 from the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine.
Raised in eastern North Carolina, Dr. Anderson is grateful for the opportunity to give back to her local community. She has special interests in dermatology and behavior and thrives on the challenge and variety that general practice o ers each day. Her approach centers on creating a warm, supportive environment where patient-centered care guides every decision. Outside the clinic, she enjoys life with her four children, two dogs, and two cats.
Dr. Marc Friedericks joins the team with 18 years of veterinary experience. He earned both his Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University in 2007.
After graduation, Dr. Friedericks practiced emergency medicine for a decade in large referral hospitals in Wisconsin and later in New Jersey before transitioning into general practice. His background in emergency care gives him particular expertise in wound management and trauma stabilization, and he also has strong interests in dermatology, dentistry, and general soft tissue surgery. He and his wife share their home with numerous rescue dogs and cats, and in his spare time he enjoys golfing, hiking, and cooking.
Dr. Scott Pett, who brings more than 35 years of experience to the hospital, founded Lanvale Animal Hospital with a vision of providing advanced, compassionate care in a collaborative and supportive environment. A graduate of University of Idaho and Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Pett previously owned and operated the respected Hamilton Wenham Veterinary Hospital in Massachusetts for 15 years before relocating to Wilmington with his wife and partner, Deb.
“Adding Dr. Anderson and Dr. Friedericks allows us to expand access to care while maintaining the personalized attention our clients
value,” said Dr. Pett. “We share a common belief that every patient deserves high-quality, individualized care — provided by a team that genuinely cares.”
The expanded medical team has enhanced Lanvale Animal Hospital’s ability to serve both new and longtime clients, introduce advanced technologies, and o er an even broader range of services for truly comprehensive care.
Expanded Team, New Technologies and Added Services - elevating care for longtime clients while welcoming new clients. Experience. Compassion. Care You Can Trust.
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A Month in Spain: A Month in
WHERE THERE’S ALWAYS A PARADE SOMEWHERE
Photos and Artitcle Written By Doreen Sargente
Spain wasn’t new to me, but it certainly felt new. The last time I’d been to Madrid was in 1972, when Franco still ruled and the city moved to a much slower, more serious rhythm. This time, it felt reborn — vibrant, confident, and very much awake.
Madrid: Tuk Tuks, Tapas, and the World’s Oldest Roast Dinner
We began our adventure with five nights in Madrid, just enough time to find our footing, marvel at how much the city had changed, and remember how to pronounce “caña” without accidentally ordering a bathtub-sized beer.
A Tuk Tuk tour kicked things o , whisking us through grand boulevards and tiny side streets while our guide gave us a lively crash course in Madrid’s past and present. We made a pilgrimage to Toledo for a day — because if you can stand in a medieval hilltop city and not feel swept up in a storybook, check your pulse — and also dutifully hit the Prado. After about the 100th portrait of a stern aristocrat, I realized one of us was going to need a snack or a nap (preferably both), and neither of those things were on display in Room 28.
However, dinner that night made up for everything. We joined a guided tour of Botín, o cially the oldest restaurant in the world. The history alone was wonderful, and the food didn’t hurt. We even saw the famous Hemingway table — though we were seated at the “Mickey Mouse table,” directly under a vintage sketch of Mickey himself. Fitting? Somehow, yes. If you know, you know.
Valencia & The Good Life Abroad: A Month That Felt Like a Second Home
From Madrid, a smooth train ride delivered us to Valencia for the heart of our trip: thirty days with The Good Life Abroad (TGLA), a company specializing in “slow travel” — month-long stays in cities like Paris, London, Prague, Lisbon, Barcelona, Split, and several more. While we were there, they even rolled out a two-week program for a few select cities like Nice and Edinburgh, among others, perfect for those who want the experience but not the full month-long commitment.
Our group of eighteen settled into the lively Ruzafa neighborhood, each of us in our own small but
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comfortable apartment (about 525 square feet) in the same building. It made spontaneous gatherings feel natural, even inevitable — a bit like a grown-up version of a college dorm, minus the exams and better wine.
Our community manager, Suzie, quickly became our guiding star. Young, upbeat, and endlessly patient, she balanced logistics, personalities, and the occasional minor emergency with grace. When our oldest traveler — a spry 90-year-old — took a fall and needed an ambulance, she handled translation, reassurance, and hospital navigation like a seasoned pro. A powerful reminder: travel insurance is not optional.
A Rhythm of Activity and Independence
TGLA has a standard weekly structure — activities on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, leaving plenty of time to explore on your own. It was a mix that suited us perfectly.
Our first o cial gathering was a local restaurant, Pane & Vino, which is run by a young couple, Suzanna and Ricardo, whose warmth was as memorable as their wine list. It became our uno cial clubhouse-the kind of place where you could count on seeing familiar faces and share a toast or two.
Peoplekeepaskingif wegotboredspending we bored amonthinoneplace. amonthinone Notonce. once.
A small sampling of some of the group activities:
• Paella class with Ramón, the recent winner of Valencia’s annual paella contest. Traditional Valencian paella uses chicken and rabbit — and believe me, after tasting his sa ron-bright, smoky masterpiece, we understood why he’d won. You could practically hear the rice applaud.
• Fallas Museum, home to the rescued “ninots” (intricate life-size figures) spared each year from the fiery Fallas festival. They range from whimsical to jaw-dropping in detail, and seeing them up close was unforgettable.
• Albufera boat ride, gliding across a serene natural lagoon before sitting down to a paella lunch in a charming, authentic restaurant that felt like a secret passed down through generations.
A few of the activities we did on our own:
• A three-hour bike tour, pedaling from the historic center all the way to the beach. Our guide kept us laughing and learning the entire way — and no, the sea breeze didn’t hurt.
• A wine tour with a small group of four. Our guide was wonderful, the winery warm and welcoming, and the lunch they prepared felt like something out of a rustic Spanish cookbook.
• A truly invigorating hike through rocky, hilly terrain — and here’s where I confess: I’m not a hiker. Not even close. We were both gloriously exhausted that night, in the best way possible. We rewarded ourselves by slipping into “thermal springs,” though at 75 degrees, the only thing thermal was our optimism.
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including business advisory, payroll, bookkeeping and financial reporting.
• Serves all type of businesses, individuals, and non-profit organizations
• Assist with filing past year tax returns and clean-up messy books
• Notary of the public on sta .
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A Side Trip to Altea: Fireworks, Seaside Air, and Pure Magic
We stole away for two nights in Altea, a coastal town straight from a postcard — whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and sea views that are etched in my mind.
Our beachfront apartment felt like a dream, but the real show began unexpectedly. Just as we were dozing o around midnight, an explosive boom shook the windows.I rushed outside expecting a commotion and instead found… fireworks. Massive, dazzling, heart-stopping fireworks being launched so close we felt the vibrations in our teeth. They lasted nearly half an hour, turning the Mediterranean into a shimmering mirror of color. My husband slept through the entire spectacle, and I didn’t get a single photo — but it’s a memory I’ll keep forever.
The Joy of Staying Put
People have asked whether we got bored spending a whole month in one city. Not even for a minute.
I discovered I adore slow travel — the rhythm of living, not just passing through.
Mornings at cafés. Afternoons wandering without an agenda.
Evenings filled with tapas, conversation, and the comfortable sense that the city was ours, if only temporarily.
Sure, I celebrated my arrival back home with a meatball sub — balance is important — but I quickly found myself missing Valencia’s e ortless charm. The spontaneity. The warmth. The music, both literal and figurative, of daily life echoing from balconies and plazas.
Why The Good Life Abroad Has Everyone Talking
Since returning in October, a surprising number of people have asked about TGLA — far more than I expected. The appeal seems clear: one destination, one suitcase, one set of keys. No constant packing, unpacking, repacking, or wondering where you left your favorite sweater.
For many, the idea of settling in for a month — or even the new two-week option — feels more relaxing, more immersive, and frankly more doable than whirlwind travel.
Spain may not have been new, but the experience certainly was — romantic, surprising, joyful, and wonderfully slow in all the right ways. Sometimes the best adventures aren’t about how far you go, but how deeply you settle in.
And sometimes, staying put is the most unforgettable journey of all.
© Best Version Media
Interested? I’m Hosting an Informational Talk
So many residents have asked for details that I’m planning an informational session about The Good Life Abroad in May— what the month looks like, what’s included, how it works, and why it might just be the most enjoyable way to travel. If you’ve ever dreamed of spending extended time in Europe without the hassle of constant motion, this is your chance to learn more. More details to come in next month’s issue, or email me at dsargente@bestversionmedia.com and you’ll be among the first to know the what/where/when for May.
Golf’s Re-Entry:
BY NICOLE WELLER
One of the more common comments I receive as a teaching professional with a sport psychology background is that golfers often aren’t able to bring the successful skill at the practice green or range out onto the course when needed, does that sound familiar to you as well?
I have an answer!
The key to having a skill manifest on the course is being able to practice more appropriately, more specifically how to practice with Entering, Exiting and ReEntry moments. Golfers tend to over-practice through a form called Block Practice in which a golfer putts, chips, pitches or hits balls over and over again in a repetitive format, often not even leaving the same stance or grip. Sometimes one can putt or hit 10 balls in a minute from the same spot! Golfers need to insert more Transfer Practice (scrimmaging) into their practice time.
Think about it this way… in playing golf, there can often be 2-5 minutes between shots as we wait for other golfers, walk, drive, wait or even hunt for golf balls. We actually exit the flow of the game and rhythm after a shot and then have to re-enter into it at the next shot. If a golfer practices one ball after another without a pre-shot routine or leaving the hitting spot and coming back into the arena, the golfer won’t be able to transfer the skill as needed in that environment since he or she is just used to hitting one after the other and getting onto a ‘roll’.
One of my students now calls it ‘icing the golfer’ in which I have him practice and then take a break and see if he can pick up again after being on a roll before having to stop. Learn to Exit and Enter back and forth into the game during practice so you’ll be Go for Re-Entry at the next shot!
Explore these Practice Tips for Successful Transfer onto the Course:
Research shows practicing in 10-15 minute chunks is ideal and then leaving it and coming back after a rest. When we work out in the gym on a piece of equipment (like leg extension, pull downs or bench press), we don’t do it for 30-45 minutes straight, we do it in sets and reps. Our bodies and minds need breaks in golf too. I have my students practice in either a set of 5 or 10 shots with two rehearsal swings or movements between each shot in their Block Practice. I like how Pia and Lynn from Vision54 give their students 30 balls but they have to make them last for all 30 minutes… quality practice vs quantity.
After Block Practice, spend 5 minutes testing the skill in a Transfer Drill. Test it on di erent lies, with di erent clubs, with variable time (1/3/5 minutes between shots), simulate some ‘perceived pressure’. Being able to hit 10 balls in a row is great but we don’t play that way, I’m more impressed if a golfer can hit 3 good to great shots when things are mixed up like real golf, that’s more of an indicator that it’ll transfer.
Trent Wearner has a great book just for this type of practice called Golf Scrimmages: Realistic Practice Games under Pressure, pick up a copy today! Also check out Short Game Challenge Practice Cards by Kelly Mitchum at Pinehurst Academy or Every Shot Must Have a Purpose by Vision54 Creators Pia Nilsson and Lynn Marriott.
Nicole Weller is an award-winning LPGA & PGA Instructor who instructs local area golfers at Compass Pointe Golf Club in Leland. For more information on Nicole and her tips / videos, visit www.nicoleweller.com
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REAL ESTATE STATISTICS - FEBRUARY 2026
Informationisdeemedtobereliablebutisnotguaranteed.
Informationisdeemedtobereliablebutisnotguaranteed.
BestVersionMediadoesnotguaranteetheaccuracyofthestatisticaldataonthispage.Thedatadoesnotrepresentthelistingsofanyoneagentoragencybutrepresentstheactivityoftherealestate communityinthearea.Anyrealestateagent’sadappearinginthemagazineisseparatefromthestatisticaldataprovidedwhichisinnowayapartoftheiradvertisement.
Oma’s on Parkwood:
Where Care Feels Like Family
BY DOREEN SARGENTE
When Je rey and Lisa Van Putten opened the doors to Oma’s on Parkwood in Leland, North Carolina, they had one simple vision: to create a place that feels like home—not a cold, impersonal institution. Nestled on a quiet, tree-lined street in the Parkwood Estates neighborhood, this licensed Family Care Home blends compassionate senior care with the genuine warmth of an everyday living room rather than a clinical facility.
Lisa and Je rey didn’t stumble onto senior care by accident— this deeply personal mission grew from their own family story. Inspired by their beloved grandmother (the “Oma” of Oma’s on Parkwood), they saw firsthand how a small, homelike environment could transform a senior’s quality of life. After witnessing her blossom in a family care home setting— becoming more engaged, joyful, and connected—they knew that this was something more people deserved.
Today, that experience shapes everything the Van Puttens do.
“We want every resident to feel loved, needed, and still useful,” says Lisa, whose lifelong passion for caregiving drives the heart of the home.
Under Je rey’s thoughtful leadership as Facility Director, they renovated a 2,700-square-foot ranch with careful attention to both safety and comfort—without losing that “just walked into someone’s living room” feel. Wide open spaces, plenty of natural light, and welcoming furnishings make the environment familiar and reassuring. Every detail, from the freshly scrubbed floors to the sunny back deck and patio, reflects a desire to make residents feel genuinely at ease.
A Di erent Kind of Senior Living
Oma’s on Parkwood is licensed to serve up to six residents in a family-care home setting—significantly smaller and more personalized than larger assisted living communities. This intimate size isn’t just aesthetic; it’s fundamental to the culture of care here. With 24/7 assistance from trained caregivers, every resident receives support with daily activities, including:
• Meal preparation and dining assistance
• Medication management
• Personal hygiene and bathing
• Laundry and housekeeping
• Daily exercises and social activities
Meals are not prepackaged or elevator-delivered—they’re prepared on-site with fresh, nutritious ingredients and designed by a dietitian. Lisa takes great pride in tailoring menus to both the dietary needs and the personal preferences of residents, so meals feel familiar and comforting.
Safety is also a priority: the home features a fully approved fire sprinkler and alarm system with continuous monitoring, monitored doors, ADA-compliant ramps, and thoughtful renovation upgrades throughout.
But even with all the practical care elements in place, what sets Oma’s on Parkwood apart is its heartbeat.
“Everybody’s got a spot. Everybody’s got things to do. We have a little family… People just want to be loved.”
— OMA, SPEAKING ABOUT THE SPIRIT OF THE HOME.
Life, Laughter, and Purpose
Je rey and Lisa don’t just provide care—they cultivate community. The home is designed to support meaningful engagement through stimulating activities that help residents stay connected, active, and engaged in what brings them joy. From group activities and walks in the garden to quiet
Exceptional Senior Care in a Residential Setting
moments on the deck watching birds flit among the trees, life at Oma’s feels like an extension of the family’s everyday rhythm.
Rooms are comfortably furnished with quality beds, linens, and cozy décor, while common spaces invite conversations, shared meals, or a quiet afternoon with a book. There’s a genuine sense that the people who live here are part of something—rather than tucked away somewhere.
This philosophy echoes the Van Putten’s belief that aging shouldn’t mean losing dignity, identity, or connection. Instead, at Oma’s on Parkwood, every resident has a place that’s meaningful, familiar, and full of possibility.
A Warm Welcome in Leland
Located just 10 minutes from central Leland and about 25 minutes from downtown Wilmington, Oma’s on Parkwood combines peaceful neighborhood living with convenient access to larger community resources. Its location on a serene half-acre lot surrounded by nature reinforces a sense of peaceful living.
Je rey and Lisa are hands-on every day—greeting families, sharing meals, supervising care, and making sure that everyone who walks through the door feels welcomed and valued.
Oma’s on Parkwood isn’t just a care home—it’s a place where later life can be lived with grace, companionship, and heart. Families who tour the home often remark that it feels less like “senior care” and more like someone’s cherished home—with the Van Puttens at the center, guiding residents and their loved ones with warmth and integrity.
MASONRY and concrete SERVICES
