March 2026 Southport Magazine by Southport Magazine

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 1

Your favorite local hardware store M-F 7:30am-6:00pm Saturday 8:00am-4:00pm Sunday 10:00am-3:00pm

Small Engine Repair Shop

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

or this month’s issue, we covered a Salad Bowl Garden class at the Shelton Herb Farm. Not only was it nice to be outside among growing things in February, but we learned quite a bit, and that was really fun. We also participated in a sort of reenactment of the Stamp Act Rebellion that took place at Brunswick Town 260 years ago, learning about how the early Brunswick County residents simply said “No!” to the King of England and forced his tax collector to resign rather than pay what they felt was an unfair tax. After successfully running off the tax man, we retired to a tent where we learned some colonial era dances. This month offers more chances to broaden your horizons. The Rice Festival at Brunswick Town explores Gullah Geechee culture, and check out our Book Signings and Meet the Author section on the calendar pages for lots of chances to hear from authors at Silver Coast Winery and our local county libraries Spring is great time to get out of the house and learn more about the wonderful world around us! -- Jeffrey

STAFF

EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jeffrey Stites

Carla Edstrom Patty Langer Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny Janet Fortney Dana Jordan Lisa P. Stites Jeffrey Stites

editor@southportmag.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Lisa P. Stites lisa@southportmag.com

PHOTOGRAPHER LEAD DESIGNER Liz Brinker

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

910-471-7741 Kris Beasley

PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461

RO AD ER RIV

REE

E ST

Southport Magazine is published once a month by

TO W

R SE

OA D

FEATURING

RK D

RUA

CONSULTANT

N. H

BER

ERT

Jeffrey Stites jeff@southportmag.com

JAB

ROB

PUBLISHER & SALES

lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com

Chuck and Sue Cothran 211

Jeffrey Stites

Live Oak Media with an extra publication in July for the Southport Fourth of July Festival. The opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of the staff. Annual Subscription: $45

8848 River Road SE, Southport • 910-477-6444 Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 2

jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

Spring into Savings Extra 25% OFF ANY SINGLE ITEM

Simply present this coupon at time of purchase. Does not apply to Men’s $41.99 Levi’s denim. Limit one per customer. Does not apply to prior purchases or gift cards. Can not be combined with any other promotional offers or coupons.

VALID NOW THROUGH 3/31/26

MISSES, JUNIORS, PLUS & MEN’S

SHOP IN STORE TODAY! labelshopper.com 4956 LONG BEACH ROAD SE, SOUTHPORT

(910)454-0816 • labelshopper.com MON.–FRI.: 9am - 8pm • SAT.: 10am - 6pm • SUN.: 12pm - 5pm Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 3

Community girls and the time we spent together in rehearsals—we were already friends from high school. “During my year as queen, I traveled over 20,000 miles across the state for festivals, parades, and pageants. I loved walking across the stage at those events, representing the independence of our country and the pride of Southport. Winning brought a real sense of pride and a competitive spirit. Through the experience, I gained sincere patriotism and a deep respect for our flag and what it means to our nation. We were reminded of what our forefathers paved the way for us to enjoy. “As a girl from a small town, the pageant expanded my vision of life and taught me valuable lessons about our beautiful town, state, and country. It also helped me grow in self-confidence and led me to a greater purpose—giving me a deeper understanding of what the Fourth of July should mean to all Americans. Ultimately, the patriotism I felt inspired me to join the United States Air Force so I could continue to serve my country.”

Miss 4th of July Festival

NC 4th of July Festival Brings Back Pageant STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY NC 4TH OF JULY FESTIVAL COMMITTEE

Editor’s Note: This is an especially big year for the NC 4th of July Festival as it joins in with the celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday, and we want you all to begin to get excited for it already! To that end, each month between now and July, we’ll be featuring an article from the NC 4th of July Committee that either explores some of the Festival’s history or gives you a look at what to expect at this year’s event. This first article does a little of both, as it takes a look at Miss 4th of July Festival pageants of the past in preparation for the return of a Miss 4th of July being named at the 2026 NC 4th of July Festival. This year’s pageant will be on June 6, and they are now accepting participants. Signup is online on the festival’s website.

hen I started this article, I have to admit I was skeptical. The words “beauty pageant” conjured up images of superficiality, outdated gender roles, and glitzy competitions judged on looks alone. Negative connotations seem to cling to the world of pageantry, fueled by decades of criticism and cultural debate. So, when I set out to chronicle the Miss NC 4th of July Pageant, I wondered: was there anything of value beneath the crowns and sashes? Or would I just be confirming the stereotypes? What I discovered, however, was a history far more nuanced, inspiring, and vital than I ever expected—a story of transformation, empowerment, and the celebration of young women’s achievements.

A Tradition Rooted in Community

Beauty pageants in America, I learned, began not as frivolous spectacles, but as bold marketing tools to boost local economies and promote tourism. The very first modern pageant, Miss America, was launched in 1921 to extend Atlantic City’s tourist season. Far from being a mere parade of pretty faces, these events were community celebrations, drawing crowds and inspiring civic pride. Even as the Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants grew into international phenomena, their roots remained deeply local, often showcasing the spirit of the town, city, or state they represented. Early skeptics (myself included) might not realize that, in an era when few women were visible in the workplace, pageants became public platforms where girls and women could showcase their talents, intelligence, and leadership skills. Participation opened doors—sometimes literally, as winners traveled across the country and beyond, acting as ambassadors and role models.

The Miss North Carolina Fourth of July Pageant: A Proud Legacy

Nowhere is this legacy more vibrant than in Southport, North Carolina. As the Southport Fourth of July Festival grew in prominence in the 1960s, organizers saw the need for a year-round representative, someone who could promote their beloved festival and the community’s patriotic spirit. Thus, in 1967, the first Miss Fourth of July Pageant was born. Kathy Joyner Maland, the inaugural queen, remembers: “I was honored to be Miss Fourth of July in 1967, the first year of this new tradition. When I came home from college, my mother had entered me in the pageant—much to my surprise. Thankfully, many friends were participating, and rehearsals at Southport High School were a highlight. “Contestants were local young women, ages 16 to 20, who competed in swimsuit and evening gown segments and answered questions on stage. I was nervous to be the first called for the on-stage question, but seeing the U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen in the audience gave me confidence, and I answered, ‘The Midshipmen’s Ball!’ “Winning was thrilling and led to a whirlwind of activities, from riding in the parade to helping Miss North Carolina at the boat raffle and representing Southport at the Blueberry Festival. The experience was tru-

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

The first Queen, Kathy Joyner Malan

ly special, and I cherish those memories.” Throughout the decades, the Fourth of July Queen didn’t just wear a sparkling red, white, and blue crown—she represented Southport at parades, festivals, and civic events across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. In fact, the first stop each year on Miss North Carolina’s visiting schedule is always the NC 4th of July Festival, setting the tone for a year of service and celebration. The pageant itself raised scholarship funds, empowering winners to further their education and serve as ambassadors for Independence Day’s values. As the festival grew, so did the pageant’s role. In 1972, the event achieved new status, becoming the official North Carolina Fourth of July Festival. Stephanie Helms Sommersett, the first queen of the newly incorporated festival, offers her vivid recollections: “To compete in the pageant, you had to be a Southport resident, have a high school education, and a Jaycee sponsor. The competition included evening wear and swimsuit segments, but the most important part was the interview. While being in the pageant wasn’t something I initially loved, I truly valued the camaraderie between the

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 4

Reimagining Pageantry for a New Generation

Of course, the world has changed. Pageants are no longer confined to questions of beauty or poise. Today’s competitions, especially the reimagined North Carolina 4th of July Scholarship Pageant launching in 2026, focus on education, leadership, community involvement, and service. The crown and format may have evolved, but the mission remains: to celebrate young women who embody the spirit of Independence Day, honor their boldness in facing crowds, and encourage them to develop character and life skills. The scholarship angle is no mere afterthought. Pageant participants gain access to travel opportunities, confidence-building experiences, and the chance to work toward goals they’re passionate about. For many, the pageant is a launching pad—an avenue not just for personal achievement, but for giving back to their communities and becoming leaders in their own right.

A Place for Boldness and Growth

What struck me most in my research— and in speaking to past winners—was how pageants like Miss NC 4th of July provide a safe, supportive space for girls and teens to learn valuable life lessons. These young women are honored not just for their ap-

1972 Queen, Stephanie Helms Sommersett

pearance, but for their courage to stand before an audience, their commitment to personal growth, and their desire to make a difference. The skills they acquire—public speaking, time management, teamwork, and resilience—are ones that last a lifetime. In the early days, when women’s opportunities were few and far between, standing on a pageant stage was a bold act of self-assertion. Today, it is a chance to be recognized for intelligence, talent, compassion, and leadership. The modern Miss NC 4th of July Pageant is not about conforming to a narrow standard of beauty, but about honoring the diverse, dynamic young women who will shape the future.

curated fine art originals & museum quality reproductions pottery, glass, metal, jewelry award winning established local artists in-home trial available locally

A New Season at The Fresh Cottage Light layers. Thoughtful details. Clean beauty for sunny filled days. Discover what’s new at the cottage.

A Invitation to Reimagine

If you, like me, have ever doubted the value of pageants, I invite you to look again. The reimagined scholarship pageant is a place where girls and teens can be honored for their boldness, develop character, and work toward something they love. It’s a celebration of spirit, independence, and community—a tradition that, far from being outdated, is more relevant and empowering than ever before. To see the full list of winners and learn more about the festival, visit www. nc4thofjuly.com. I started this article with skepticism, but I finish as a believer—in the transformative power of pageants, and in the extraordinary young women who step into the spotlight, not just for themselves, but for all of us. Submitted by Trisha Howarth, NC 4th of July Festival committee member.

SPRING HAS ARRIVED

517 N. Howe St. Southport, NC 28461 (910)363-4163 www.thefreshcottage.com 10-4 Tuesday - Friday 10-5 Saturday local art,colorful gifts curated by artist & owner Hilary meehan, estb. 2007 Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 5

Community

Salad Bowl Class A Bite-Sized Way To Learn To About Gardening

STORY BY LISA STITES, PHOTOS BY LISA AND JEFFREY STITES

inter in southeastern North Carolina is another great growing season, and having a garden, or even a small container garden on the porch, is an easy way to get your fresh greens all season long. Farmers at Shelton Herb Farm in Leland teach several classes throughout the year, mostly October through spring, aimed at helping people grow vegetables and herbs at home. Last month, the crew led a Salad Bowl class, and attendees learned what greens and herbs work in the cold season. They planted their selections, learning how to gently spread the roots and how much dirt and fertilizer to use. They got instructions on watering, how to know when certain plants were ready to be harvested, and how to generally care for their salad bowl throughout the season. “I think the greatest thing about this class is that you can see how much you can grow in such a small space, that you don’t need to have a full garden bed outside,” Farm Manager Alexandra “Alex” Modly said. “If you have a patio with some sunlight, you can grow your own salad. It’s delicious. And

colorful. It’s very fun to add that much color in the wintertime.” Salad Bowl class attendees Nadine Pirozzolo and Megan Peverall said they had attended a few years ago and came back again this year. “I love growing things,” Nadine said. “Both of us do. We have little backyard gardens, and I love coming up here during the summer and buying all my plants and everything from Shelton’s. I like this place.” Megan added that she likes

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

the healthy aspect of the activity. “Salads are good, and they use organic fertilizer,” she said. “My husband loves to make kale chips, so I’m going to put them in with olive oil in the oven.”

ington, D.C. for a life of working outside and in the dirt, somewhere where her dog, Rhett Butler, could roam free. She said that the Farm staff is working to add some more demos, talks, and workshops as well, as they have space to do it. Right now, they’re sort of limited by the weather, doing things in spring and fall when it’s comfortable to be outside or in a greenhouse.

Alex led the Salad Bowl Class, checking on everyone’s progress as she guided them toward completing their colorful gardens. She came to the farm five years ago, after leaving a job in management consulting in Wash-

“We’re trying to increase the number of classes we do,” Alex said. “Folks love them. We always have great turnout.” She added that the farm used to schedule classes for garden or homeschool groups when asked to do so, but farm personnel have been growing the schedule. “Some of the other ones that we do are botanical hammer printing, which we’ve

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 6

done with kids mainly before, but we’re also going do an adult version of that, where you’re essentially using a rubber mallet to imprint the flower color into a fabric or paper. And we’ve done a tomato pot in class before. I know that we’re going try to do one on this little dwarf tomato that gets no taller than a foot.”

Whether it’s a salad bowl class, or a session on growing seasonal herbs, the classes are for any skill level.

Staff also hosts demonstration-style sessions or talks at the Farm, 340 Goodman Road NE, Leland. Check https://sheltonherbfarm.com/ for information on upcoming classes or to schedule one for your group.

“That’s actually one of the things we often say just about herbs in general, that if you’re new to gardening, herbs are a great starting point, instead of maybe vegetables or something like that,” she said. A lot of them are perennials, so people can get used to something as opposed to just enjoying an annual season of something. There are also fewer pests to deal with because not many things are trying to eat basil versus a tomato. It’s a way for people to kind of get used to the workflow of listening to the sun, the weather, the rain, and the plant itself.

“We do a seasonal, herbal infused vinegar demo, so we talk about what herbs we have this month, week, season. Everyone goes home with some of the different herbs, fresh herbs that we have, as well as a mason jar and the stuff to do an infused vinegar, except for the vinegar, so that you can choose your vinegar. And we demonstrate a couple of them and how to do it. It’s a great way to prolong the use of the herbs,” she said.

DECORATE YOUR NEST

About 95 percent of the time, Alex said that all people need is encouragement and a pat on the shoulder that they’re heading in the right direction.

You can’t afford not to shop at

Spring Refresh Starts Here

“We will walk you through this,” Alex said. “It is a nice, bite size way to learn about gardening.”

105 S. Howe St. • 910-457-0011

Buy Your Tickets Today Scan QR code or visit azaleagardentour.com Ticket also available at these retailers:

All in Bloom, Southport Ricky Evans Art Gallery, Southport Sweet Nectar’s ’Florist, Leland

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 7

e love the Maggie Awards, and we hope you do as well. What makes our Maggie awards stand out is the thought put into them by you, our readers. If you aren’t familiar with our syestem for the Maggies, we simply ask people to tell us, in their own words, what makes this community great. It’s a essay question, really, and sometimes we get true essays in response! We love to read all your nominations, and each year we are surprised by some of them. One thing that really stuck out this year was the number of responses we received from folks who do not live full time in our community, but love to visit here. Let me tell you, they love this place and are not shy about telling us why it’s where they chose to spend their limited vacation time. It also made us happy to know that Southport Magazine helps to connect visitors to their vacation escape! We’ve included some of the comments we received so you can enjoy them too

FAVORITE CHARTER SERVICE

Catherine Anne Charters 606 W West Street Southport, NC (910) 620-9919

catherineannesportfishing.com

Captain Steele of Catherine Anne Sportfishing is the most knowledgeable Captain I’ve ever had the pleasure of fishing with. I’ve never seen anything like it! Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

FAVORITE COOKIES

Southport Cookies 1102 N Howe Street 910-368-1346

I am proud to nominate Southport Cookies for the Maggie Award for their truly outstanding food and their Southport community spirit. Every visit is a reminder of how incredibly delicious their cookies and treats are—consistently fresh, creative, and unforgettable. Beyond the amazing flavor, Southport Cookies goes above and beyond to accommodate all diets, ensuring everyone feels included and cared for, no matter their needs. It’s the first place my child feels stress free when wondering about allergies. What truly sets them apart, though, is the warmth of the experience: from the moment we walk in, we are greeted like family, creating a welcoming, joyful atmosphere. There is no better feeling than walking in and having the owner say, “missed you it’s been awhile, hope your doing well”… that is what keeps us coming back again and again.

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 8

BEST PLACE TO FEATHER YOUR NEST

Talefeathers 105 S Howe Street Southport, NC

Just a little extra charm

TRY OUR SPECIAL ST. PATRICKS’S DAY BEVERAGES!

Happy Hour

Monday - Friday 3-4 pm

• Drive Thru • Dog-Friendly Patio • WiFi Cafe

Breakfast & Lunch served all day

(910) 457-0011

Scan to order

to mobile order!

FAVORITE CLOTHING DEALS

Label Shopper

3481 George II Hwy • 800-484-8399 • baldheadcoffee.com

4956 Long Beach Road SE Southport, NC (910) 454-0816 labelshopper.com

FAVORITE HOTEL

River Hotel

706 E Moore St, Southport

(910) 294-6070 riverhotelofsouthport.com

Intro Offer

2 WEEKS UNLIMITED CLASSES FOR $59

NEW SCHEDULE: Morning, Afternoon & Weekend Classes Available! jazzercise.com coastaljazzercise@gmail.com • (910) 338 - 9515

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 9

Order Online: theseasidemermaid.com

Scan code to download our app!

OAK ISLAND | OCEAN ISLE BEACH | SURF CITY

We serve Chuck’s Homemade Ice Cream

Seaside Mermaid is a food paradise. We offer sweet and savory treats including ice cream to all. We also feature a full coffee bar menu. Stop in and see us soon!

COASTAL JEWELRY UNIQUE HOME DECOR GARDEN & MORE (910) 250-1783 SHOP ONLINE at mermaidcoveboutique.com Don’t forget to pick up our delicious fresh

HOMEMADE FUDGE

6102 E. Oak Island Drive • Oak Island, NC (Next to Mermaid Cove) • OPEN DAILY 7am-6pm

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Download Mermaid Cove Boutique App for iPhone & Android Now!

A FLATTERING FIT FOR EVERY MERMAID: SMALL - 3XL 6102 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465 • 910-250-1511

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 10

FAVORITE FAMILY BUSINESS

Bianchi Brickyard 7995 River Rd SE • Southport, NC (910) 454-4445 bianchibrickyard.com

FAVORITE CUSTOM GRAPHICS

Stingray Creations

FAVORITE PROPERTY MANAGERS

Oak Island Accommodations

8901 East Oak Island Drive Oak Island, NC 28465 (888) 297-8066 reantalsatthebeach.com

Oak Island Accommodations has always went above and beyond for me and my family. From helping us find a safe haven after Helene, to delivering anniversary gift to my wife and I that my aunt had sent down while we were on vacation. I have always had the best experience, customer service, and overall satisfaction when staying with OIA.

Visit us at stingraycreation.com

I nominate Stingray Creations because she truly pours her heart and soul into her business and her community. She consistently goes above and beyond for her customers. When I was starting a new business and had no clear vision for my logo, she worked with me patiently until we found exactly what felt right. She even took the time to teach me how to set up my social media pages and schedule posts, things she absolutely didn’t have to do. That alone speaks volumes about her character. She genuinely cares about her customers and is passionate about helping others succeed in her community Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

FAVORITE FLORIST SHOP

Wine and Roses Florist 919 N Howe Street # D Southport, NC (910) 457-4428

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 11

FAVORITE SANDWICHES

FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP

Bald Head Coffee

Southport Cheese Shoppe 417 N Howe Street Suite B Southport, NC (910) 477-6387 southportcheeseshop.com

3481 George II Hwy SE Unit 1 Boiling Spring Lakes, NC (800) 484-8399

baldheadcoffee.com

I would like to nominate Bald Head Coffee in Boiling Spring Lakes. Their coffee shop is welcoming, has great customer service and delicious coffee and food. They created a beautiful and comfortable atmosphere inside their shop, as well as outside on their patio. And not only do they treat their human customers well, but also their furry friends with pup cups and photos of them covering the drive through window. Finally, they encourage kindness, with a pay it forward board, where you can purchase a future coffee for someone that would enjoy an unexpected kindness.

BEST WAY TO SEE SOUTHPORT

FAVORITE ITALIAN FOOD

Bella Cucina 5177 Southport-Supply Rd SE, Southport, NC (910) 454-4540 belladiningnc.com

FAVORITE FEEL GOOD STORE

Southport Fun Tours With The Rev

The Fresh Cottage

109 S Davis Street

517 N Howe Street

Southport, NC

(910) 713-3373

(910) 363-4163

southportfuntours.com

thefreshcottage.com

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 12

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 13

FAVORITE LOCAL BAND

Almost Blue

FAVORITE OUTDOOR ACTIVITY

807 N Howe Street Southport, NC (910) 454-0607

with The Adventure Company

theadventurecompany.net

Kayak Tour

FAVORITE BURGER JOINT

FAVORITE GARDEN & LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

Blue Cow Grille

Hoffman Ecoworks

108 E Moore Street

4923 Trails End SE

Southport, NC

(910) 363-4402

bluecowgrille.com

(910) 443-0819 hoffmanecoworks.org

I nominate Hoffman Ecoworks. A longtime local business, they are always cheerful, ready to help, honest and fair and they go over and beyond to make sure you get what you need, when you need it! They are great Southport neighbors and invest their heart into the community! Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

112 E. Moore Street • Downtown Southport • 910-363-4275

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 14

fresh baked cookies shipped WEEKLY! Order online or call/ text us to place an order

new location

Everything is vegan and gluten free

112 N Howe St. • Southport

910-368-1346

Comprehensive routine exams, medical eye care, emergency care

Full optical with designer frames and contact lenses Most insurances accepted

Dr. Michael Howard

Matthew Benko OD

To schedule new appointment call (910) 457-6667 or visit: visionsource-howardeye.com

Vision Source of Brunswick Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

4633 Long Beach Road Southport, NC 28461

(910) 457-6667

www.howardeye.com

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 15

THE LOCAL EXPERTS

226 Sand Dollar Lane The Hammocks at Southport 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $739,000

211 N. Howe Street Historic Southport 2,448 sq.ft., $1,599,999

5122 Prices Creek Drive Harbor Oaks

3 bed | 2 full, 2 half bath, $1,115,000

6158 River Sound Circle The Landing at Southport 3 bed | 2 bath, $860,000

304 E. Leonard Street Southport 2 bed | 1 bath, $479,000

5016 Robert Ruark Drive Smithville Woods 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $629,000

3703 Cinnamon Fern Drive Arbor Creek 4 bed | 3 bath, $579,000

5909 Dutchman Creek Road Indigo Plantation 3 bed | 2.5 bath, $698,000

4911 Beech Tree Drive Carolina Place 4 bed | 2 bath, $389,500

302 SE 79th Street Oak Island 3 bed | 2 bath, $749,000

922 Shipley Way Stanbury Creek 3 bed | 2 bath, $299,000

104 SE 16th Street Oak Island 3 bed | 2 bath, $675,000

SOUTHPORT-REALTY.COM 727 N. HOWE STREET SOUTHPORT, NC 28461

SALES: 910.457.7676 RENTALS: 910.457.6401

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

SALES@SOUTHPORT-REALTY.COM RENTALS@SOUTHPORT-REALTY.COM

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 16

OUR TEAM Brian Deutsch

Myles Williams

Tanya Broussard

Kim Anne Russ

Sally Stidham

Pamela Frandano

Jill Oakley

Brian Quinn

Karen Saunders

Katherine Hufham

Valerie Earman

Verilyn McKee

Annabelle Pivarnik

Sarah Smith

Kim Moss

Sherol Lappala

Shea Williams

Andrea Milligan

Fred Fiss

David Thorp

Karen Hufham

Katherine Wooten

Lee Ann Walker

Christian Stiller

Jason Hester

SALES | RENTALS | VACATIONS

Your Local Lender

910.471.4200

As the spring market heats up, our No Ratio Loan helps buyers with strong assets and unique income stories move forward—without being limited by traditional debt-to-income formulas. ▪ ▪ ▪

Up to $2M loan amounts Fixed & adjustable options Primary & 2nd homes

▪ ▪

NMLS ID# 208516

NO RATIO HOME LOAN

Integrity Home

Branch Manager | NMLS #112668

MORTGAGE CORPORATION

KAREN THROCKMORTON

Gift funds allowed 401(k)s & stock as reserves

This spring, let’s looks at the full picture—not just one number. Not available in DC, MD, PA, or WV. Minimum requirements apply. Integrity Home Mortgage Corporation acts as a mortgage loan broker and arranges loans through a third-party lender. IHMC does not make mortgage loan commitments or fund mortgage loans under this program. For informational purposes only. All mortgage loan applicants are subject to underwriting and qualification guidelines. This is not a commitment to lend. IHMC is licensed in NC, SC, and VA NMLS ID #208516 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 17

SUNDAY, April 12th American Fish Company

150 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport To benefit the N.C. 4th of July Festival

LIVE MUSIC BY

Salty Dogs

DOORS OPEN AT 4 PM

TICKETS: $ 5 5 $450

FOOD SERVED FROM 5 PM. CASH BAR.

PER PERSON 10 BULK TICKETS

EACH TICKET INCLUDES SHRIMP BOIL, FRIED SHRIMP, SHRIMP 'N GRITS, CHICKEN, BBQ PORK AND MORE! VIEW THE FULL MENU AND PURCHASE TICKETS AT:

www.nc4thofJuly.com

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 18

March into Spring with Blue Cow! Sadly, our soups won't be returning until the fall season in Oct, but don't fret we have other tasty options!

Black Betty (mod

ified)

Blue Cow Grille is located at: 108 E Moore Street in Southport, NC Contact us at: (910) 363-4402 Open: Tues-Sat 11am-8pm Sun 11am-3pm

Sorry Charlie

Blue Cow

Catch up with us on Facebook. Give us a like, and remember to turn on notifications to get all the latest updates first! Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 19

FAVORITE BARTENDERS

FAVORITE FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Jessica Herr Kaitlyn Trivette

Christine Gillenwater

THE PUB OF SOUTHPORT

Premier Fitness Studio and Wellness Center

1513 N Howe Street Suite 10 Southport, NC

4580 Long Beach Rd SE (910) 477-6003

(910) 457-6554

thepubofsouthport.com The Pub’s bartender Kaitlyn is the best! She was one of the first people we met when we were moving to Southport, she was so welcoming and inviting and knew a lot about the area. She made this place feel like home before it even was yet. I’m voting for bartender Jessica Herr at The Pub in Southport . She is always so nice and caring . She has a smile on her face every day and is such a hard worker . She makes going to the pub a happy and pleasant experience.

premierfitnessstudio.com

I would like to nominate Premier Fitness Studio and its owner Christy Gillenwater for the 2025 Maggie Award. I have been attending and participating with this organization for more than five years, beginning with my diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. It provides overwhelming support physically through kickboxing classes, 1:1 exercise training, and circuit training. Also, it is essential to my social and emotional health. Premier has significantly contributed to my success on this journey. I definitely share my credit with the trainers, staff, and fellow students for my positivity, joy, improved health and hope. It is life changing! It is love!

FAVORITE BOUTIQUE STORE

BEST OUTDOOR SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

411 N Howe Street

1200 N Howe Street

Southport, NC

(910) 363-5032

(336) 953-4254

Boo &Roo’s

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 20

All In Bloom

SOUTHPORT HISTORIC DISTRICT

SOUTHPORT/ SOUTHPORT WAY

SOUTHPORT/ PREMIER WATER VIEW

516 W. BRUNSWICK STREET

1110 CANEY COURT

4002 BARNES BLUFF DR. SE

MLS #100549529

MLS #100543238

$425,000

$250,000

MLS #100478845

1,750,000

Price Improvement!

SOUTHPORT / NEW CONSTRUCTION

418 RAVEN GLEN DRIVE

415 RAVEN GLEN DRIVE

MLS #100543070

MLS #100543069

$695,000

$650,000

Sale Pending!

Pre-Sale! SOUTHPORT / PRIME COMMERCIAL LOCATION

BOILING SPRING LAKES

1205 N. HOWE STREET

1961 GASTONIA ROAD

MLS #100540503

MLS #100534371

$140,000

$275,000

New Listing!

Sale Pending!

SOUTHPORT / COMMERCIAL

SOUTHPORT/ SMITHVILLE WOODS

SOUTHPORT / 27 HOMESITES

1676 N. HOWE STREET

5003 ROBERT RUARK DRIVE

N. CASWELL AVENUE

MLS #100510908 $489,000

MLS # 100370424

$ 1,500,000

PRIME 2.6 ACRES +/-!

SOLD!

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

MLS 100457934

$1,950,000

Sale Pending! www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 21

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 22

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 23

FAVORITE DATE NIGHT DESTINATION FAVORITE GALLERY

Franklin Square Gallery

Mr. P’s Bistro 309 N Howe St, Southport, NC (910) 457-0801

130 East West Street, Southport 910-457-5450 franklinsquaregallery.com

Franklin Square Gallery is a great community asset in Southport that serves the entire region with wonderful art provided by local artists, holds art classes including Brunswick High School Art Shows, holds art lectures, hosts First Friday Art Gallery Walks for locals and tourists to enjoy art, refreshments and music. These First Friday gatherings are a monthly social gathering loved by everyone. Franklin Square Gallery is housed in a historic building that the non profit arm of Gallery, the Associated Artists of Southport, (AAS) maintains. The Gallery also has made a huge impact on our community through this year’s highly successful Empty Bowls campaign and in 2026 is hosting art classes for Brunswick County’s Veterans Creative Arts Program.

BEST PLACE FOR BLING

Renee’s Jewelry

602 N Howe Street Southport, NC (910) 457-7714

reneesfinejewelry.com Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 24

FAVORITE GIFTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Cattail Cottage

416 N Howe Steet Southport, NC (910) 454-4533

cattailcottagenc.com

Favorite Beach Fashions

Mermaid Cove 6102 E Oak Island Drive Oak Island, NC 28465 910-250-1511 mermaidcoveboutique.com

FAVORITE FAMILY FUN SPOT

FAVORITE VETERANARIAN

NC Maritime Museum Southport

River Road Animal Hospital

204 E Moore Street

8593 River Road SE

Southport, NC

(910) 477-5151

(910) 454-8910

ncmaritimemuseumsouthport.com

rrvet.com

When Fresh Matters, You’ll Be Hooked!

NOW SERVING BRUNCH Saturdays & Sundays New Brunch Hours 11 AM - 2 PM!

Enjoy a spectacular view from our Big Deck Thank You for voting us “Favorite Dinner With A View”

Live Music On The Big Deck April-October! Waterfront Dining • Spectacular Views Exceptional Service • Fresh Local Seafood

We’ll See You Dockside!

Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner • Brunch on Sat. & Sun.

We’ll See You Dockside!

4907 Fish Factory Rd • (910) 477-6616 • rustyhooksdockside.com Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 25

DECORATE YOUR NEST

THE CHEERS AWARD

You can’t afford not to shop at

Loco Jo’s Bar & Grill 602 N Howe Street # E

Spring Refresh Starts Here

Southport, NC (910) 294-0808

locojosnc.com

Loco Jo’s in Southport is always welcoming. The food is amazing, but what most warms my heart is the big hello from Nikki and Chuck and to know so many friendly faces sitting around the bar. Loco Joe’s is truly the best Southport hang out where everybody knows your name. I nominate them for the Cheers award hands down

105 S. Howe St. • 910-457-0011

We’re Growing Come Grow With Us! Celebrating 35 Years on OKI

Extensive Rental Marketing Strategy Friendly Guest Services Representatives

Property Management for Vacation & Long Term Rentals Full-Service Maintenance & Housekeeping 24/7 Online Reservations

2026 Maggie Award Winner for Favorite Property Managers

Oak Island Accommodations

FAVORITE VACATION RENTAL COMPANY

210 Country Club Drive

Margaret Rudd & Associates, INC Realtors Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Oak Island, NC (910) 278-5213

rudd.com

855.942.8835 | ComeToOakIsland.co

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 26

1226 N Howe Street Southport $689,000

105 E Brown Street Southport $1,100,000

1132 Serotina Drive SE Bolivia $560,000

3100 Marsh Grove Lane 3101 Southport $356,000

105 SE 58th Street Unit 9301 Oak Island $449,000

1,205 Sq Ft Commercial Property

Commercial Property

3 Beds | 3 Baths | 2,046 Sq Ft

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,477 Sq Ft

3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 1,240 Sq Ft

4020 Norseman Loop Unit 2 Southport $299,000

1728 Culdees Lane SE Bolivia $325,000

102 W Brown Street Southport $749,000

・

4367 Marsh Elder Court Southport $209,900

・

2571 St James Drive SE C43 St James $80,000

3 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 1,722 Sq Ft

3 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,618 Sq Ft

1,120Sq Ft Commercial Property

Vacant Lot in St James

Dry Stack Boat Slip

5158 Elton Drive SE Southport $365,000

3350 Club Villas Drive 104 St James $329,000

101 S Shore Drive Southport $490,000

・

508 N Howe Street Southport $330,000

・

4175 9th Street SE Southport $179,000

3 Beds | 3 Baths | 1,380 Sq Ft

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1,052 Sq Ft

3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 2,661 Sq Ft

Commercial Lot Downtown

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 787 Sq Ft

・

Every 30 seconds, a REMAX agent helps someone find their perfect place. Serving Brunswick County, NC and Beyond Get Started Today at www.SouthernCoastAtTheBeach.com

SOUTHERN COAST

319 N Howe St, Southport NC | (910) 363-4565 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 27

Southport Cottages by

C.L. Smith Construction Cameron Smith Cell:

910-443-5080 Email: CLSmithGC@gmail.com

Ready to Build YOUR DREAM HOME? CALL TODAY!

SARAH SMITH

910.443.8000

SARAHSMITH@SOUTHPORT-REALTY.COM COASTALLIFESTYLEPROPERTIES.COM

LOT/ HOME PACKAGES AVAILABLE IN COTTAGES OF PRICES CREEK & JONAS CREEK Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 28

FRESH LOCAL EXCELLENCE CUISINE OF THE LOWER CAPE FEAR

FRESHLY CURATED ELEGANTLY CRAFTED

Visit our website to view our menu

mrpsbistro.com Reservations Suggested 309 N. Howe Street 910-457-0801 OPEN: Tuesday-Saturday 4:30-8:30 p.m. Corkage and Cake Fees Apply

Win

ner

ORT MAGA

SOU

2016

SOUTHPORT MAGAZINE

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

MAGGIES 2022

2022

2023

SOUTHPORT MAGAZINE

2015

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

SOUTHPORT MAGAZINE

MAGGIES Winner 2021

WINNER

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and join our email list The Low Country Low Down at mrpsbistro.com for the latest news and specials

Accepting Applications for Bussers and Part-Time Staff ZIN

Join Us!

E WIN

2023

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 29

2024

iiTTrriippVV acaactaiotnio s ns

tin rtie esnt PrNNooopwweaacrcctecypetpiM agnpargopeem ng properties for Rental Management on for Raising Rental Manathe gemeBar nt on

Oak Island on Customer Oak IslandService

WE OFFER: WE OFFER:

Highest visibility on all industry-leading Highest rveisnibtialiltyanond atlrl ainvdeulsw trye-blesaidtiensg. anoddteralvbeol w s.r property. The rieTnrtiapl m okebssyitoeu The iTrip model books your property. Excellent housekeeping, full-service cetlelennatnhcoeu,se2k4e/e7pienm g, efurgll-esn ercvyicreesponse. maExin maiTnhteenaiTnrciep, 2m 4/o7deeml elregtesncyyoruesrpeosntse.asy. The iTrip model lets you rest easy. A bou tique level o f service at competitive napletfietievse. A bou tirqauteelsevw elitohf sneorvaicdedaittciom The iTrrip atm esowdeitlhgnivoeasdydoituioonnael -foene-so. ne attention. The iTrip model gives you one-on-one attention.

oakisland.itrip.co oak9is1la0n.2d5.it0r.i3p0 .c1o6 oakisland.itrip.co 910.250.3016 910.250.3016

Call us today for a free evaluation! Call us today for a free evaluation!

Call us Today for a Free Property Revenue Projection!

Stop by and visit us at our new office location 8821 E Oak Island Dr, Suite 4, Oak Island

Celebrate Spring!

Monday - Thursday 5-9pm • Friday-Saturday - 5-9:30pm • Closed on Sundays

Every day is a Tapestry of Fine, Fresh, International Flavors at Ports of Call Bistro!

EASTER 2026

Join us for Easter Sunday Brunch

Thank You for Voting us

Best International Cuisine

SUNDAY, APRIL 5TH

Enjoy Periodic Jazz Performances at Midweek Soirees, along with our Fresh Ingredient Cocktails, Wines, and Beers! A New Focus on Our Regular Dinner Services with Extra Hours • Offering a New Seasonal Menus; Offering Group Lunches and Special Event Contracts • Robust and Flavorful Specials for each Meal Service • A broader Range of Authentic International Cuisines • An increasing variety of House made desserts • Using our Space & Services to foster Unity: Out of Many One!

Create loving memories when you dine with us! • Dine-In Seating and Take-Out Orders

portsofcallbistro.com

Dinner: Tuesday thru Thursday 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm Dinner on Friday and Saturdays: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm Lunch Service: Tuesday thru Saturday 11:30 am- 2:30 pm

116 North Howe Street, Historic Downtown Southport

Thank you for voting us:

“Most Creative Menu” - 2024 &2025 Maggie Award, And “Best Bistro” and “Best Martini” – 2024 People’s Choice Awards

We’ve been working to Serve You since 2011. Thanks for these prior awards:

People’s Choice Awards: “Best Bistro”– ( 2023, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2016, 2013) Maggie Awards: Best International Cuisine (2023); “Most Creative Menu” – (2021, 2019); Most Creative Chef (2020) Wooden Boat Show: Best Chowder

The Full Menus for both of the these events will be posted on our Facebook Page

RESERVATIONS 910-457-4544

FINE INTERNATIONAL BISTRO DINING & GOURMET GIFT ITEMS • DINE IN/TAKE OUT • portsofcallbistro.com Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 30

DQ Banana Split

For Only

$7.5 0

Tax Included

For Limited Time

At the following Dairy Queen locations: SHALLOTTE: 20 Naber Drive LONG BEACH: 5701 E. Oak Island Dr. SUPPLY: 106 Southport-Supply Rd., SE WILMINGTON: 5901 Oleander Drive

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 31

FAVORITE HOME DECOR

FAVORITE LOCAL ART

Barn & Beach Designs

Mad River 619 N Howe Street Southport, NC (910) 363-6939

4874 Old Long Beach Rd SE, Southport, NC (910) 363-4995

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Dunes Mercantile Gifts and Guitars 8600 E Oak Island Dr Suite #5 Oak Island, NC (954) 243-6908

dunesmercantile.com

Kayak

Offering guided kayak tours Information & Reservations

910-454-0607

www.theadventurecompany.net

ating 25 years of Adventure r b e l ! Ce

is in the air!

Time to get on the water and out in nature! Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 32

madriverdesigns.com

W armer W eather M eans

Welcoming

M ore A dventures!

Bruce Thompson, MD | Internal Medicine Tracey Allen, FNP-C | Family Medicine

Stay ahead of mosquitoes with simple, effective heartworm prevention

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS | Schedule Today | (910) 457-3996

Call our clinic to get your pet up to date for Spring!

8593 River Road SE | Southport, NC Southport | Oak Island | St. James

Dosher Medical - Long Beach Road 4222 Long Beach Road | Southport

(910) 454-8910

When Was the Last Time You Came to Bella Cucina?

Pizza Dough Made from Scratch Daily

DINE IN & TAKEOUT Serving NY Style Pizza, Pasta, Salads and Subs Gift Cards available in-house and online

Lunch: 11:00 am • Lounge: 4 pm • Dining Room: 5 pm Monday - Saturday

You will love our updated decor!

Pasta! Pasta! Pasta!

ting 20 years Celebra

AZALEA GARDEN TOUR TICKETS ON SALE HERE! CASH ONLY

5177 SOUTHPORT-SUPPLY RD SE

We are open

(910) 454-4540

DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

1200 North Howe St. Southport 336.953.4254 • allinbloomlandscape.com

Reservations/online ordering: BellaDiningNC.com

2025

VOTED BEST OUTDOOR SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

GIE WINN

Craft Cocktails, Beer and Wine

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 33

FAVORITE LUNCH SPOT

Dry Street Pub & Pizza 101 E Brown Street Southport, NC

MOST UNIQUE ARTWORK

Lantana’s Gallery & Fine Gifts

113 S Howe Street Southport, NC (910) 457-0957

lantanasgallery.com

(910) 457-5994

drystreetpizza.com

FAVORITE HARDWARE STORE

FAVORITE PLACE TO KEEP IN SHAPE

Southport Ace Hardware

Southport Jazzercise

8848 River Rd SE Southport, NC (910) 477-6444

acehardware.com 91 W Boiling Spring Road jazzercise.com

Southport Jazzercise. This is a wonderful class run by Angela Dover. It is a fun and energizing class. There are many classes, morning and evening available so it is good for anyone who may want to take good care of their health. I have been attending classes here for about four years and would highly recommend it to anyone male or female. Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Ports of Call

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 34

116 N Howe Street Southport, NC (910) 457-4544

portsofcallbistro.com

browse our inventory here

4019 Long Beach Rd. Southport, NC 28461 (910)457-4497 Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 35

FAVORITE NON-PROFIT

The GIFT School

COZIEST BOOK NOOK

Needful Things and Moody Bean Book Cafe

4928 Southport-Supply Rd Southport, NC (910) 363-4759 thegiftschoolofbroco@gmail.com

114 E Nash Street (910) 524-3239

Needful Things & Moody Bean bookstore and coffee shop standout as a wonderful business for me in Southport. Service is always incredibly kind and caring in both the bookstore and coffee shop, and the hospitality makes you feel right at home in the store.

FAVORITE PLACE TO BE PAMPERED

Live Oak Med Spa

5130 Southport-Supply Rd SE Suite 101-2 Southport, NC • (910) 477-9038 • liveoakmedspa.com

FAVORITE LOCAL SEAFOOD

Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill 4907 Fish Factory Rd SE 910-477-6616 rustyhooksdockside.com Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 36

FAVORITE BEACH BAR

The Lazy Turtle 601 Ocean Drive, Oak Island (910) 278-7725

Community 2026 NC Rice Festival T

his not to be missed festival held on the beautiful grounds of the Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson State Historic Site celebrates the culture of the Gullah-Geechee, brought as slaves from west Africa to grow rice in the coastal southeastern United States. Food, music, and storytelling traditons will be showcased along with lectures on the history and current state of the Gullah Geechee community. This is one of our very favorite events each year. It’s a great kick-off to all the festivals throughout our region each year and a wonderful opportunity to get out outside and immersed in a positve, educational and truly fun local event. We hope to see you there!

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 37

FISHING REPORT

March Fishing Report Fishing Heats Up With Warmer Spring Waters BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK

inter is finally starting to back off and we’re back on the water. The fish are too — and they’re feeding. March still brings a few chilly days, but overall the water is warming and everything is sliding into spring patterns. After a long, cold winter, this season feels a little more exciting than usual. We’ve also shifted from La Niña into El Niño conditions, which should mean less wind and fewer rough days than what we dealt with last year — something every captain is happy to hear. Backwater

Red drum fishing stayed strong through most of the winter, especially in the backs of creeks where shallow water warmed up during the day and kept fish feeding. Now those fish are pushing into the main tributaries following bait moving in. Look for reds cruising marsh grass edges, feeding on shrimp and mud minnows. If you find oyster rocks along those grass banks, there’s a good chance fish are holding there. Speckled trout took a hit during the freeze, and the bite is still slow. Marine Fisheries has placed a closure on trout for a few months to help the population recover. When you’re able to target them again, focus on areas where multiple creeks meet and current creates a rip or deeper pool. A popping cork with a Vudu-style shrimp suspended underneath is still a go-to. Red

drum tend to sit on the non-current side while trout position themselves in the moving water. Flounder will start showing up this month as water temperatures approach 60 degrees. We did get a short two-week Gulf flounder season in March, but anglers shouldn’t expect easy limits — these fish must be caught in the ocean and are generally holding 10–20 miles out. If you’re looking for steady action — especially with kids on board — March is prime time for sea mullet (whiting). Every year we see a strong run in the river. The Coast Guard channel, the mouth of the river, and the north side of the river channel near Battery Island are all productive. A simple two-hook bottom rig with small hooks and cut shrimp is all you need.

Nearshore

March is when nearshore fishing really starts to wake up. As water temperatures reach the low to mid-60s, Atlantic bonito move into the area. Lighthouse Rocks and McGlamery Reef are solid places to start looking. Troll #1 planers with spoons until you locate fish. Once you find them, casting jigs or Yo-Zuri crankbaits will get plenty of bites. Just like Spanish mackerel fishing, keep an eye out for birds working or fish breaking the surface. Toward the end of the month, we usually see the first Spanish mackerel show up. They’re often mixed in with bonito or schooling nearby, feeding on glass minnows that have started to appear. If we get a consistent warm stretch, there’s also a chance the first king mackerel of the year show up along the beach late in the month.

Offshore

Mid to late March is when the first schools of king mackerel begin showing up in the 20–30 mile range. Spots like the Horseshoe, Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Captain Steele Park, a US Navy Veteran, has been fishing the oceans, rivers, and lakes of southeastern NC since he was 7 years old and knows these waters like the back of his hand. He calls Southport home and captains the Catherine Anne Sportfishing & Excursions fleet. For more information please call at 910-6209919 Shark Hole, Christmas Rock, Cucumber, and the Cabbage Patch are good places to check. Slow trolling dead cigar minnows or live menhaden — if they’ve arrived — will get bites. There are still plenty of big black sea bass holding in the 15–25-mile range. Grouper remains closed until May 1. Over the past several years, we’ve consistently found large “chopper” bluefish around Frying Pan Tower. On light tackle, they’re a blast. When you find those schools, you can cast just about anything into them and they’ll eat.

Gulf Stream

March is a transition month offshore. There are usually a few wahoo around along with decent numbers of blackfin tuna. The biggest key to success is water temperature — you want to find 70-degree water or better. Checking satellite temperature charts and targeting clean eddies is worth the effort. If you’re fishing for water temps in the high 60s, you’ll likely deal with green or blended water and tougher trolling conditions. If you run offshore and

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 38

the trolling isn’t great, vertical jigging for amberjack can save the trip. Mark fish on your bottom machine, drop a jig straight down, and work it through the water column. When one eats, you’ll know it. This time of year, the jacks are big — 60- to 100-pound fish are common.

Looking Ahead

Spring is here and fishing will only improve from this point forward. Those of us who spend a lot of time on the water are watching closely to see if El Niño delivers the calmer, more fishable days we’re hoping for. After the past few seasons, that would be a welcome change. One last reminder — this winter was exceptionally cold. Before you launch for spring, take time to check your boat’s thru-hull fittings, steering systems, bilge pumps, float switches, and electronics. Hard freezes can stress equipment, and staying safe on the water always comes first.

Meet Our Southport Team!

Kaitlin Ridder, MD

Dana Point, MD

Anna Thompson, PA-C

Angela Plichta, PA-C

The most complete urological services in the region. Over 50 plus years, four generations of making you a part of our family. Based in Wilmington and Southport.

UROLOGY ASSOCIATES OF SENC, P.A.

www.urologywilmington.com Schedule your appointment today! Every Other Monday 8:30am-5pm • Tuesday 8:30am-5pm • Wednesday 8:30am-5pm

SERVICES OFFERED Bladder Cancer Blood in Urine Enlarged Prostate Erectile Dysfunction Fertility Frequent Urination Hydrocele Kidney Cancer Kidney Stones Low Testosterone Penile Implants Peyronie’s Disease Prostate Artery Embolization Prostate Cancer Prostatitis PSA Screening Testicular Cancer Urinary Tract Infection Urinary Incontinence Urolift Vasectomy Reversal Vasectomy Varicocele

910-763-6251

4222 Long Beach Road SE Suite B • Southport, NC 28461 Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 39

Community

2026 Gator Games

Athletic and Arts Contests For Over 50s STORY BY JANET FORTNEY, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

id watching this year’s Olympics in Milan leave you motivated for competition? If so, and if you happen to be age 50 or older, you’ll be excited to hear that your opportunity to achieve local glory (and possibly state- and country-wide fame) is here through the Brunswick County Gator Senior Games & SilverArts program. The event is currently open for registration with a fast-approaching deadline – paper registration is due by March 11 and online registration closes March 18.

This Parks and Recreation Department program – for eligible adults age 50 and better – is a local, multi-sport, athletic and arts competition with the goal of promoting healthy lifestyles and creative expression, encouraging seniors to stay active and engaged in the community. The 2026 games will run from April 8 to May 15 and will be held at various venues across Brunswick County including Leland, Southport,

and Shallotte. “We have over 70 total events – individual, partner and team – so there’s really something for everyone,” said Gary Mlynek, who, along with his wife Christine Ettl-Mlynek, serves as a North Carolina Senior Games and Brunswick County Games Ambassador. “We’ve been ambassadors for five years, but have been involved since 2012 in the games as participants in both the athletic and the SilverArts portion. Actually, I’m probably more involved in the SilverArts, but I’ve been involved in table tennis. [Chris and I] have done cornhole; we’ve done mini-golf and we help out at the other activities too. She’s also been involved in the SilverArts photography [competition]. I think the best thing about it for us is meeting new people and really having fun.” The Leland couple – originally Minnesotans but now living in North Carolina for 15 years – assists local games coordinator Khrystye Haselden in “getting word out about the games, recruiting new people and past participants, and helping to get things organized,” explained Mlynek. And there certainly is a lot to organize as the event boasts an extensive array of competitions, in-

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

cluding billiards, 15 different swim matches, cornhole, football throw, basketball shoot, bocce, shuffleboard, disc- and mini-golf, as well as a one-mile Fun Walk. Partner events feature bowling, tennis, table tennis, and pickleball, and team events are 3-on-3 basketball and softball. “And that’s just the athletic [options],’ said Mlynek. “SilverArts has quite a few categories as well.” Mlynek is not exaggerating about the arts program. Among the extensive SilverArts categories are: Heritage Arts (basket weaving, crocheting, general fiber arts: jewelry, knitting, needlework, thrown and hand-built pottery, and hand- and machine-stitched quilting, among several others); Literary Arts (various types of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry writing); Visual Arts (including acrylics and oil-painting, digital art, drawing, 2D and 3D mixed media, photography, and watercolor); and Performing Arts (such as comedy/drama performances, dance, and instrumental and vocal performances). And let’s not

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 40

forget the cheerleader teams – a new category for 2026 – that will be keeping the spirit going and rooting on competitors! For a complete list of the categories, go to https://bcparks.recdesk.com/Community/ Page?pageId=7961. “We’ve had people in their 90s participate,” said Mlynek. “And we’ve had several parent/child teams participate, too. We’ve had couples participate in mini golf, table tennis, and bowling.” Mylnek believes that friendships have “absolutely” been made through the program, “especially in some of the team

Community events where, for example, people have played doubles and [end up meeting] people who they then discover come from [the same] hometown.” As for that Olympic-style “thrill of victory,” in the sporting events, everyone who qualifies in first, second, and third places receives medals. Those who qualify within the top three spots in the SilverArts events receive ribbons. Additionally, anyone who qualifies in eligible categories can go on to compete at state level in Raleigh in mid-September. State-level qualifiers are then eligible to compete in the 2026 National Senior Games in Oklahoma. Event organizers would be pleased for anyone with an interest to attend and support the Senior Games. “We always welcome spectators to come and cheer [everyone] on. We make it a point to tell people that if they are involved, bring their spouses to the different activities they’re involved in. We always welcome and encourage new participants. It’s all of Brunswick County, but our games are also open to people from surrounding counties. For example, [we have participants from] Wilmington, because they don’t have Senior Games in

their county.” While the number of competitors from each town in the county varies every year, Mlynek says that, “Brunswick County has such a fast growing population now. And so our local Gator Games have had the most participants of all North Carolina counties in the last two years. We’ve really had a lot of participation here.” According to Mlynek, the NC statewide games are a model program for the country. “The National Senior Games Association is a national, [non-profit] organization, so it’s available to all states. And in North Carolina, all 100 counties are involved in 54 different sanctioned events. North Carolina is also the only state that offers the SilverArts as part of the Senior Games. There are other states that are looking at our program and hopefully they’ll emulate it.” Athletes and artists, now is the time to get yourself registered for the Brunswick County Gator Senior Games & SilverArts at https://bcparks.recdesk.com/Community/ Page?pageId=7961. The cost is $20. For more detailed information, contact Brunswick County Parks & Recreation at 910253-2670.

Get Your Outdoor Spaces Ready For Spring! Screened Organic Topsoil, Garden Compost, Fill Dirt, Mulches, Eco Chips, Longleaf Pine Straw Decorative and Driveway Gravels, Various River Rock, Drainage Rock, Landscape and Focal Boulders, Flagstone, Mortar Sand, Stepping Stones and Pavers, Concrete Tile Benches, Outdoor Furniture, Fire Pits, Seasoned Firewood, Raised Garden Beds, Driftwood, Artisan Garden Decor, Metal Palm Trees, Authentic Mexican Talavera Pottery and Planters, Kindness Rock Kits Hometown Proud Second Generation Family Owned and Operated Over 50 years

910-443-0819

www.hoffmanecoworks.com

Located through gate at end of Trail’s End Road, Hwy. 211 across from Wendy’s

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 41

t r o p h t Sou

fest SPRING

ts, No pe ! please

Free Admi ssion!

Bay St, Southport, NC Saturday, April 18th: 10am-4pm

Live Musical Entertainment

Children’s Activities

Handmade Arts and Crafts

Variety of Food Vendors

Tutorial from the Cape Fear Swing Dance Society

Make memories you will cherish all season long!

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 42

Art Beat

Driftwood Artwork

Steve Merriam Is Inspired By Found Items STORY BY CARL A EDSTROM

grew up in Maine, surrounded by the beauty of the coast, mountains, streams, and lakes,” said Steve Merriam, artist, wood carver, and sculptor. “I started collecting driftwood as a child, when I would find gnarly roots on the shore where I fished. I imagined faces and creatures in them, as we do with the clouds sometimes. Throughout my life, I always had a small collection.”

Driftwood that Steve has found is the main source of his art. He considers the hunt for the right driftwood part of the artistic process. “I collect driftwood primarily by kayak and on foot. Usually, I am looking for certain sizes and shapes to complete my vision. Yet other times, I find a piece that compels me to make something I never thought of. Sometimes I see it right away. Other times, I have to ponder it for a while. Selection is also an exercise in discipline, because if I take too much, I will sink my kayak,” said Steve. “Once my driftwood is home, it will be with me for months as it passes through stages of sterilization and treatment for bugs, using products safe for the home. It is a bit like farming, and I established my own methods through research and testing.” Steve and his wife spent years painting together before he switched to working

with driftwood. “I consider myself an artist as I do not copy patterns or the style of anything I have seen. I come from a family of artists, with six siblings, inspiring each other throughout the years. My carving method is all my own. Each piece is unique, and the visions for them usually come into my mind complete.” Like Steve, many artists credit their inspiration to spiritual influences. Steve credits his success to the Holy Spirit, with prayer being an important part of his life. “I pray for every carving and the people it might touch,” he said. “For centuries, artists have illuminated stories of hope, love, and peace, connecting humans with the spirit world. Art is more powerful than words, and it is personal. It can mean something different to the viewer than the artist even imagined,” he said. “I think art is a gift passed down through generations to serve mankind. It retells stories and reflects creation in new ways. Art can open the door to discovering purpose and meaning, to finding love, or to holding onto hope. My wish is that my sculptures help people in this way, too. “Inspiration for my work usually comes to mind during quiet reflection. I then make what I see. However, I do a limited number of commissions when I have time. I find the dreams of others serve as fuel for my own creative process. It is a blessing to know who I am creating for, and why the piece is important to them. I feel a deeper connection to the collector, and my thoughts and prayers for that person and that art are truly custom.” Although Steve has done all aspects of home construction, such as mantles, architectural accents, and built-ins, his work for sale is mainly lighting and sculpture. “I like visualizing, sketching, then pulling togeth-

er something that really makes a room or a facade. Sometimes I incorporate architectural salvage because I love that old-world look. Sometimes, I re-create that old-world look myself. If presented with the challenge, I would enjoy the chance to build a custom installation in a home or business,” said Steve. “Most of my sculptures are monochromatic, echoing the form and flow of nature. Yet I love making a portion of my work very colorful and detailed. Since late 2024, I also began making highly detailed marine life on a larger scale, and I plan to go even bigger soon.” In December 2025, the Wilmington Arts

Council awarded grants to local artists from several North Carolina counties. These grants help artists purchase tools, attend workshops, and receive training to further their art. Steve received $1,000, which he used to buy tools for carving larger pieces of his work. “Later in 2026, I plan to announce a series of public coastal chainsaw carvings. Please follow Facebook.com/ MerriamArt for announcements on these and other events,” he said. “Our move to Southport was a life reset in pursuit of a dream, as is my side work of carving sculptures and working with driftwood. I am thankful for the gift to create, and I find I am most happy when I can use those gifts to bless others,” he said. You may reach Steve through Facebook Messenger at Facebook.com/MerriamArt. Alternatively, you can view his current work at Barn and Beach Too on Long Beach Road. You can also contact Barn and Beach Too at 910-477-6448 to reserve any available works on display. Custom work can be ordered there or directly through his Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MerriamArt.

Available at: THE PAINTED MERMAID Handcrafted Pottery

817 N Howe Street, Southport

w w w. B l u e E a r t h Wo r k s . c o m

SOUTHPORT, NC • BREVARD, NC • FLETCHER, NC • NORTHEAST, MD • BLUEEARTHWORKS.ETSY.COM

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 43

Golf Tips Understanding Wedges Practice For Getting The Ball In The Air

BY NICOLE WEL LER, LPGA / PGA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL

or a new golfer, having 14 different clubs can be confusing with all the options. Most sports have one piece of equipment at a time like tennis, soccer, cricket and lacrosse, to name a few. Imagine a tennis player needing to get a different racquet for each different type of shot like a serve, lob shot, soft cut shot over the next, hard forehand from the baseline and so on. Keeping it simple for new golfers is good! Way back there wasn’t a limit on the number of clubs a golfer could have… in fact some caddies were lugging 26 clubs (or more!) in their players’ bags like Lawson Little, who won back-toback U.S. and British Amateur Championships in 1934-1935. In modern days, sets usually have a putter, several wedges, 9-iron, 8-iron, 7-iron (clubs were actually made of forged iron!), several hybrids, several fairway woods or fairway metals and a driver. Wedges tend to be the higher lofted clubs in the set. Here are some ideas to help new golfers understand the Wedge World, as it can be confusing with how they’re labeled…we chip with a pitching wedge and pitch with a sand wedge. How does THAT make sense?!? The lofts on a club dictate how high the club can launch the ball into the air. Traditionally the ‘Lob’ Wedge has 60-64 degrees of loft, a ‘Sand’ Wedge 55-59 degrees of loft, a ‘Gap’ Wedge 50-54 degrees of loft and a ‘Pitching’ Wedge 45-49 degrees of loft, roughly. Companies have labeled the wedges but it’s nice to see that manufacturers are putting the degrees on the clubs now instead of the labels like P, W, S, L, A, D , U… degrees are changing to lower lofts so instead of a pitching wedge being 46 degrees, some are now 39 degrees. Maybe they want us to think we’re hitting them farther, but essentially we’re really hitting a former 8-iron…tricky marketing! Whatever

the label is, find the right lofts that help your yardage. Most new golfers do better with just five clubs and then add from there as they learn how to use the clubs better and see more need for extra clubs and distances. I actually call my S wedge not my Sand Wedge but my Stop Wedge, since I use it mostly out of the grass and other lies and not strictly out of the sand. I want that high lofted club to launch high and then stop on the green from all kinds of surfaces. The ‘sand’ wedge is not just for the sand. Fun Tips to Learn Your Wedges: • Pitching Wedge would be roughly your 10 Iron • Gap Wedge (or Approach, Dual, Utility with other companies) would be roughly your 11 Iron • Sand (or Stop) Wedge would be roughly your 12-iron • Lob Wedge would be roughly your 13-iron. The higher the number, the higher the shot in golf. I also have students think of it this way, if the image helps…S Wedge lands and flies Super Short while a P Wedge lands and flies Pretty Short, it runs more than an S Wedge. I hope that helps some with fun imagery and words. If starting out with just one wedge, I’d recommend a Pitching Wedge (some have a P or W or PW on it…and that doesn’t stand for Putter, which often newbies mistake that letter for). If you want two wedges, I’d

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

recommend a Pitching Wedge and a Stop/Sand Wedge. Those will give you different lofts. Check with your local LPGA/PGA Professional or nearby club fitter/seller to help guide you through your clubs!

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.

FITNESS IS OUR BUSINESS • Mindset Coaching • nutritional guidance • fitness training • accountability • Customized in-person & Virtual programs

VICTOR FERNANDES Owner, Fernandes Fit LLC

814.504.7774

www.fernandesfit.com

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 44

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 45

Keeping Fit

Healthy Eating Out Have A Healthy Meal And Eat It Too BY VICTOR FERNANDES

Victor Fernandes is owner of Fernandez Fit, helpjng clients achieve personal and professional success through health and fitness

etween being a foodie by nature and networking as a business owner in various industry circles, I find myself eating out more often than I should. And I know I’m not alone.

Valentine’s Day was the latest trip out – or should I say trips – after a busy schedule that day born from my inability to schedule properly (but I digress). We ate breakfast out after my son, Zach, and I competed in a one-mile run and five-kilometer race in Oak Island that morning. Then we enjoyed a snack while attending the University of North Carolina Wilmington basketball game that afternoon, followed by dinner with my wife, Shelly, that night. Of course, our family always tries to make the best meal choices possible. For example, I had an omelet packed

with protein for breakfast, popcorn for a snack at the game and a shrimp quesadilla (again packed with protein) for dinner. But even when we make the best choices, it’s rarely ever better than the choices we make at home. For starters, portion sizes are regularly much larger at restaurants, often two to three times the normal size. I get around that by asking for a to-go box to put half of my meal in for lunch the next day. Otherwise, I would have a meal where the caloric intake makes up most of my allotment for the day – and I eat close to 3,000 calories per day. Also, when we eat out, we don’t truly know how meals are prepared and the quality of ingredients being used. While at home, we have total control of the ingredients going into our meals and how we prepare them. The only way to get past that is to not eat out as much, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It saves money in our wallets and inches on our waist if we do that. But our family loves eating out. Shelly and I love date nights. We love trying out new places and new menus. But eating out is not the same as eating at home. Because of that, we can easily veer off course with our nutritional plan even with

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

the best intentions, which I know is hard, especially if you’re a career-minded person like me. Being out and about in the community, being seen and interacting with others in and out of our industries is essential to building successful business relationships, and in turn, our careers and businesses. But if we’re serious about taking care of ourselves, because we’re serious about the impact health has on us personally and professionally, then we do what we have to do to make it happen. Besides, there is a strategy to it. Allow me to take you back to April 2024, when our family went to Disney World for a long-awaited vacation. We knew eating inside the respective parks we visit is a necessary evil, so we began planning where we would eat. Then we perused menus – and pared down our potential meal choices to four or five healthy options. So, when we arrived at a restaurant to eat, we didn’t salivate over the entire menu. We focused on those few options. Often, we arrived already knowing what we would get. We skipped looking at the menu entirely. We follow the same approach when eating out here. We look over menus in advance to see what meals we can enjoy that fit into our nutritional plan. Now my clients follow that lead. They

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 46

send menus to me from restaurants they visit and then select from the handful of choices I send them. Some of them have become very adept at pinpointing the best options before I provide my choices. Like everything else in health and fitness, awareness and intentionality are king. We have to be aware of the choices we make by consistently becoming informed of the choices we have, and we stick to those choices – time after time. Then we enjoy the best of both worlds – eating healthy while still enjoying delicious meals. If you need help pinpointing your path to better nutritional health, I’m always here – because at Fernandes Fit…Fitness Is Our Business. And if you need help laying out the best plan of action to take control of your overall health and well-being, I’m here to help. Contact me at 814-504-7774 or by email at info@fernandesfit.com to get started. You can also get more information on my website at fernandesfit.com.

Special Events • Better Meetings

Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1976

Homer E. Wright Event Center

Let Us Help You Achieve the Lawn of Your Dreams • Custom Water Features • Landscape & Hardscape Design • Maintenance

(Formerly St. James Community Center)

4136 Southport-Supply Road SE, St. James • (910) 253-3012 TownofStJamesnc.org

We work hard, so you don’t have to! JEWELRY REPAIR • WATCH REPAIR

Let owner, Cheryl Robinson create a custom floral arrangement for you! Birthdays | Anniversaries Weddings | Funerals 919 N. Howe St., Southport

910-457-4428

WE DO APPRAISALS Master Jeweler on site!

602 N. Howe St., Southport (910) 457-7714 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram reneesfinejewelry.com

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

724 N. Howe St. | Open 7 Days a Week

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 47

History

Nicolas Said’s Journey March Brunswick Civil War Round Table STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

he incredible story of Nicholas Said’s journey from his birth place in Central Africa, through Czarist Russia, to the frontlines of the Civil War is the topic of a special Tuesday, March 17 meeting of the Brunswick Civil war Round Table at Hatch Auditorium in Caswell Beach. It will be presented by award-winning journalist Dean Calbreath who has spent more than a decade’s worth of research, travel, and archive searches culminating in his book “The Sergeant.” Henry Louis Gates, Jr., American literary critic, professor, and historian, describes the book as “essential reading.” For our Round Table audience, maybe its “essential listening!” So, who is Sergeant Nicholas Said? He was born as Mohammed Ali ben Said, the son of a cavalry general in the thousand-year-old kingdom of Borno in the center of Africa. After being captured by Tuareg raiders in his early teens, he was sold into slavery and

later purchased by the Russian ambassador to Istanbul. Said journeyed through much of the Middle East and Europe, picked up at least nine languages, and crossed paths with kings, emperors, and tsars, before ending up in the United States on the eve of the Civil War. After joining and serving his tour as a sergeant in the Union Army, he went on to become one of the nation’s first Black voting registrars, launched schools for newly freed slaves, and toured with his lecture series about the “possibilities that may be accomplished by the African.” Our guest speaker will delve into this most incredible story of Said’s life which will captivate his audience. This will certainly be another “must attend” meeting! Dean Calbreath is a lifelong journalist, winner of dozens of awards, traveled through 42 countries and all 50 states, filed stories from five continents, and lived in Oregon, Maryland, Virginia, Texas, and the Czech Republic. The work on his book, “The

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Sergeant,” represents over a decade’s worth of research, including travels to Detroit, Boston, Alabama, and Washington, D.C., as well as correspondence with archives in Russia, Latvia. The Netherlands, and England to retrieve documents on Nicholas Said’s life. Meeting registration begins at 6:15 pm and the meeting starts at 7 pm. The visitor fee is still $10, and may be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues, which can include a spouse. Incidentally, about one-third of our audiences are female. Importantly, meeting attendees will be able to take an unlimited number of free Civil War history books from our vast collection of 600-plus books which are being offered due to storage limitations.

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 48

For more information about the meeting or the Round Table, please contact president John Butler at Brunswickcwrt@gmail.com, or call him directly at 404-229-9425. Or, visit Brunswickcivilwarroundtable.com for background and current information, news, and updates, or find the group on Facebook.

FO L L A

IAL PEC

Offshore/Nearshore/Backwater Fishing Charters Local Experience Packages/Excursions BHI Shuttle/Water Taxi

Your Safety is our Top Priority MAINTENANCE SPECIALS

(910) 620-9919 • CatherineAnneSportfishing.com

Swing For Success:

• LOF 59.95 • Coolant Flush 15% off • Battery replacement $20.00 off • Road Force Tire Balance with rotation $89.95 • Spark Plug replacement 15% off parts and labor • Timing belt replacement 10% off parts and labor

Golf Digest Best Teacher in State 2023-2024 Top 50 LPGA Teacher

US Kids Golf Master Teacher

Wake Forest University D-1 Scholarship Player

Master’s Degree - Sport Psychology PGA & LPGA National Award-Winner

PICK UP AND DELIVERY FOR THE SOUTHPORT AREA

New Year’s Service Special

15%

OFF Parts and Labor

WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS

Nicole Weller 912-695-5211

Thru March 31

Excluding Tires and North Carolina Inspection • Maximum Discount $150

LPGA / PGA Golf Teaching Professional

www.nicoleweller.com

(Call for details)

SERVICE SPECIALS

Master Your Game with Nicole Weller Instructing Local Area Golfers at Compass Pointe Golf Club

Pick up and delivery service available

4952 New Centre Drive, Wilmington

SALES, SERVICE & PARTS • (910) 613-6673

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 49

SPOTTINGS Lynda Stanley, President and CEO of Dosher Memorial Hospital, has been named in the 2025 edition of the Becker’s Hospital Review “Critical access hospital presidents and CEO’s to know” list. The Becker’s Hospital Review editorial team accepted nominations for this list and curated it to highlight the accomplishments of these leaders, including thosewho are driving growth, strengthening partnerships, expanding access to care, and improving the health and wellbeing of their communities. A media release about the list published by Becker’s states, “The leaders featured on this list are innovative, strategic thinkers who continually reimagine how to elevate safety, quality, outcomes and service offerings, often while navigating recruitment and retention challenges. Guided by a deep understanding of the vital role critical access hospitals play, they remain dedicated to sustaining and strengthening healthcare in their communities.” Said Lynda Stanley, Dosher President and CEO, “I am grateful for this recognition and appreciate how Becker’s has highlighted the important work of rural healthcare through this list. Critical access hospitals ensure that patients in rural areas can receive high-quality care close to home, without the burden of long travel distances or excessive costs. Everyone on the Dosher team is honored to provide life-saving care for our community, and in accepting this honor, I thank the patients who put their trust in us and our staff, who carry out our mission of providing extraordinary care to every person every day.”

Sailor and Harbor wanted to share the huge snowman they made last month. Good job!

The BCC Dolphins Men’s Basketball program continues to thrive thanks to the exceptional dedication of Joe and Moe Stanley. At the February 5, 2026, game against Cape Fear Community College, the Dolphins secured a win and the brothers announced their newest fundraising achievement of $80,000 for the team, elevating their overall impact to an impressive $343,000 in total support. The Stanley brothers, Brunswick County natives and owners of Joe and Moe’s Automotive in Shallotte, presented their most recent contribution to The Foundation of Brunswick Community College, reinforcing years of consistent investment in Dolphins basketball. “What Joe and Moe have built here extends far beyond financial contributions,” said BCC President Dr. Gene Smith. “Their dedication to these student-athletes transforms lives and elevates our entire program.” The cumulative $343,000 has provided critical resources for the Men’s Basketball program, creating pathways for student-athletes to excel academically and athletically while representing BCC. The brothers’ investment in BCC basketball stems from their deep connection to the sport. As former players who came of age on local basketball courts, Joe and Moe have transformed their athletic background into a mission of empowering young athletes. Each year, they orchestrate a dedicated fundraising campaign that brings together community members, business associates, and basketball supporters. Beginning their outreach in mid-December, the brothers mobilized an impressive network of nearly 400 donors in just a month and a half, demonstrating the strong community support for BCC basketball.

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 50

MARKETPLACE H OMES/ L A ND FO R SAL E

2467 ASH LITTLE RIVER ROAD NW, ASH, NC. Rare Opportunity for Residential Land. Zoned CORR | $225,000. Not often do we have acreage like this pop up in Brunswick County! Survey reflects 6.4-acre tract of land, located in the southern end of Brunswick County in Ash. Close the NC/SC line, and between ILM and Myrtle Beach airports! Give us a call today! Listed at $225,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Contact Brooke Rudd at 910512-1361 for details.

5523 E BEACH DRIVE, OAK ISLAND Prime Oceanfront Opportunity. 0.17 Acres | Zoned Ok-R-7 | $675,000. Stunning oceanfront lot located in the heart of Oak Island, close to grocery stores, beach shops, and restaurants. Check out this listing today! Listed at $675,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Brooke Rudd at 910-5121361 for more information. 16+/-ACRES Mixed Use Development Opportunity. Signalized Access on NC 133/ Long Beach Road. 16+/- Acres | Zoned R-6000/CLD | $700,000. Seize this rare opportunity to

develop approximately 16 acres in one of North Carolina’s fastest growing areas! With signalized access, this prime location is perfect for builders, developers, and investors. Listed at $700,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Reach out to Jonathan McLaughlin at 910-269-8200 for information or to discuss the possibilities!

4911 SOUTHPORT SUPPLY ROAD SE, SOUTHPORT. 431+/SF of Hwy 211 Road Frontage. 2.2 Acres | 3 Parcels | Zoned CoCld | $1,400,000. Prime location along Highway 211!! Check out these 3 parcels, zoned for commercial and perfect for a variety of business types! Listed at $1,400,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Pat Proctor at 910-5230087 for more information.

612-B W. BROWN STREET | 2 BED | 2 BATH | $349,900 Premium location! This immaculate, furnished condo is located in the quiet and peaceful neighborhood of The Village at Southport. This unit has an open floor plan with a sizable kitchen, dining area, living room, and an open deck that overlooks the community pool. The two

bedrooms each have adjoining bathrooms and there is a separate laundry area. Assigned parking that can accommodate 2 cars can be found on the ground level along with a private storage room, and a central elevator. All exterior landscaping/maintenance is handled by the HOA. The location offers easy access to Morning Star Marina, and downtown for shopping, galleries, museums, restaurants, and enjoying the Cape Fear River views. Don’t miss out as these condos don’t come on the market often! Call Katherine Hufham, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-4045.

114 W. 14TH STREET. 3 BED| 2.5 BATH | $445,000. This nearly new townhome combines modern style, thoughtful upgrades, and low-maintenance living-all just minutes from downtown Southport. The sought-after layout features a 1st-floor owner’s suite with a custom walk-in closet and spalike bath, plus an open-concept living area ideal for entertaining. Enjoy a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an oversized island that flows into the great room, screened porch, and fenced backyard. Upstairs offers 2 spacious bedrooms, a full bath, and a versatile loft. With LVP flooring throughout, washer/dryer included, custom blinds, and HOA-covered lawn care, this move-in-ready home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and style. Call

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Sarah Smith, Southport Realty, Inc., for more information, (910) 443-8000.

6856 CAMPBELLS RIDGE DRIVE. 4 BED | 3 BATH | $554,000. This feature-rich residence blends modern style with thoughtful upgrades throughout. Set on an impressive .65-acre lot, the expansive backyard is a blank canvas waiting for your dream outdoor space! Inside, you’ll find over 2,570 heated square feet, including 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths on the main level, plus a 4th bedroom, 3rd full bath, and large bonus room upstairs - perfect for guests, hobbies, or a home office. Prime location - 3 mins to Leland shops, 10 mins to downtown Wilmington. Call Andrea Milligan, Southport Realty, Inc., (910)279-6671 for more information.

5215 EAST OAK ISLAND DRIVE, UNIT #1. 5,193 SQ.FT. COMMERCIAL SPACE | $1,099,000. Rare commercial investment opportunity in the growing market of Oak Island, where inventory is limited and demand is rising.This property features five units, four with new leases already in place delivering immediate, stable income. With flexible layouts including a 36’ x 30’ conditioned warehouse and a newly remodeled

apartment, the property supports a variety of business uses and future rental growth.Strong road frontage, rear alley access for parking and loading, and close proximity to Publix enhance visibility and tenant appeal.Call Valerie Earman, Southport Realty, Inc., (540)8789465 for more information.

1031 SANDY HEIGHTS LOOP. 4 BED | 2 BATH | $359,995. Over 1,800 sq ft and Move-In Ready, this Cali floor plan in Cedar Hill Landing features over $15,000 in upgrades and a fully fenced backyard with extended concrete patios-plus a mounted outdoor TV for entertaining. Inside, you’ll find an open-concept layout, stainless steel appliances, a custom Idea Closet in the primary suite, and a rare epoxy-finished garage floor. The split-bedroom design offers three bedrooms and a full bath at the front, with a private primary suite tucked off the living room. This smart home includes the Home Is Connected®️ package with video doorbell, Z-Wave thermostat, smart lock, and more. Conveniently located just south of Wilmington near Leland with quick access to I-140 and Hwy 17. Cedar Hill Landing is a new Brunswick County community with resort-style amenities coming soon, including a pool, hot tub, fire pit, sports courts, and more. Hot tub optional. Transferable warranty available. Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty, Inc., (910)620-8962 for more information.

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 51

CALENDAR

e’ve included events here that are listed as scheduled, but please remember that all events, dates and times are subject to change. (For programs offered through the Town of Leland, visit https://apm.activecommunities.com/townofleland/ to register online or register in person at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way). Register online for Town of Oak Island programs at www.OakIslandNC.goc/PROGRAMS. — Lisa

March MARCH 3

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

“The Incredible Odyssey of Nicholas Said: From Central Africa through Czarist Russia to the Frontlines of the Civil War.” Journalist and author Dean Calbreath will attend this meeting to share the forgotten history of Nickolas Said, whose adventures began in a thousand year-old African kingdom. He was a master of languages, a collector of knowledge, and a friend to kings and tsars, and he later became a Union Army sergeant in the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida. The Round Table meets at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Registrations begin at 6:15 pm and the programs start at 7 pm. The visitor fee is $10 and may be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues.

MARCH 4

Wine, Women & Chocolate — Save the Date! The Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce hosts this evening event at SeaTrail Convention Center, 75A Clubhouse Road in Sunset Beach. Plan for an evening of shopping, sweet treats, and time well spent with friends. Tickets are $50 and will include event admission, one drink ticket, one raffle ticket, shopping, food, and plenty of chocolate.

MARCH 4

Dosher Hospital Tour

Dosher Memorial Hospital invites community members to take an in-person tour of the hospital at 1 pm. This tour gives residents an opportunity to get an up-close look at the services offered and to ask questions about the hospital. The tour group will meet in the front lobby of the main hospital building at 924 N. Howe St., Southport. Space is limited. Call 910-457-3900, or email

marketing@dosher.org to reserve your spot.

MARCH 6

Spring Art Show - Franklin Square Gallery First Friday events at the Gallery resume with a Reception and Awards Ceremony from 5 to 7 pm. All are invited to attend, view the show, meet the artists, and enjoy complimentary wine and delicious hors d’oeuvres. The Gallery is at 130 E. West St., Southport. The Spring Art Show runs through March 14.

MARCH 7

North Carolina Rice Festival

Fully telling the story of the region’s rice-growing legacy and its Gullah Geechee heritage are the two main goals of the North Carolina Rice Festival. Through fun, insightful, and family-friendly activities, we strive to fulfill our motto of “Education through Celebration” by hosting a series of live, destination events at the historic Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson site (8884 St Philips Road, Winnabow - off N.C. 133). The event is 10 am to 5 pm.

MARCH 7

Founders Day Fest and Market - Shallotte Celebrate the Town with a visit to the historic Sunnyside School, live country music, face painting and crafts, and a vendors market featuring artisans and crafters. The festivities are 9 am to 2 pm at the Riverwalk, 158 Wall St.

MARCH 10

Health, Fitness and Beauty Showcase The Annual Coastal Health, Fitness & Beauty Showcase is 4-7 pm at the Homer E. Wright Event Center, 4136 Southport-Supply Road, St. James. The Showcase will feature businesses and non profits in the healthcare, fitness

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Don’t miss the NC Rice Festival, March 7 at Brunswick Town

and beauty industries. Admission is free. There will be many free giveaways provided by the participating businesses, along with seminars, free samples, health screenings, etc.

MARCH 12

Cape Fear Civil War Round Table Wilmington The Cape Fear Civil War Round Table will host Doug Kesling, a member of the team that raised the turret and other artifacts of the iconic USS Monitor from the waters off Cape Hatteras, the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” He will tell the story of the amazing and historically important achievement. The meeting begins at 7 pm and doors open at 6:30 pm in Elebash Hall at the rear of St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1219 Forest Hills Drive in Wilmington. The church parking lot and entrance to the meeting room is easily accessed via Park Avenue off of Independence Boulevard. All are welcome. For more information about membership, check out the Round Table’s website at https://www.cfcwrt.org/

MARCH 14

Spring Into Health

The annual Spring Into Health 5K/1M

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 52

is a Brunswick Wellness Coalition Signature Event. Spring Into Health is a ‘health raiser’ opportunity to get people running, walking, strolling and rolling. Whether you participate as an individual or part of a team, this is your chance to get active and have fun. This year’s theme is Go Green, Get Healthy! Everyone is encouraged to dress in their best green attire and embrace health as generations come together to move. The runs/walks start at 9 am behind Dosher Memorial Hospital, 924 N. Howe St., Southport.

MARCH 14

St. Patrick’s Day Market - Sunset Beach Shop among local vendors during this open air market at Sunset Beach. The market is 11 am to 3 pm at Sunset Beach Town Park, 206 Sunset Boulevard North.

MARCH 15

Love in Bloom Bridal Expo - Southport Engaged couples and anyone thinking of making wedding plans can see what local vendors have to offer to make their dream wedding a realty. The expo is 2-5 pm at the Southport Community Building, 223 E Bay St.

CALENDAR

MARCH 16

Fixing Habitats - LCAC

North Carolina’s freshwater wetland habitats provide food, shelter, nurseries, and play space for native wildlife. Attendees will learn how to become a habitat fixer-upper by discovering ways to diagnose and restore wetland habitats and have the chance to meet some of the live animals that call these wetlands home. The lecture is free to attend, 6-7:30 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

MARCH 18

Kids at the Cove - Leland

Meet up at low tide at Cypress Cove Park to explore the importance of our wetlands. Situated on Mill Creek, a freshwater river, the park is a great place to dive into water ecology, learn about the wildlife present, and participate in a nature scavenger hunt to further engage young minds in outdoor adventures. Registration is required for this free event, which is 5-6 pm at the par, 844 Appleton Way NE.

MARCH 21

NC Reads — Meet the Author

Meet author Terri M. Brown to discuss “Daughters of Green Mountain Gap,” a compelling novel about three generations of Appalachian women in the NC mountains at the turn of the 20th century with conflicting beliefs concerning traditional folk healing and modern science. UNCW Associate Professor Lynn Mollenauer helps lead the discussion at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., Southport. Sign up for one of two sessions —10 am or 2 pm. Visit the library, find the signup online through the Brunswick County libraries, or call 910253-1813.

MARCH 21

Spring Fling - Oak Island

Let’s help bring spring along with this festival at Oak Island, featuring a full artisans market, food vendors, a kids zone, and live music from Deep Creek Soul Band. The festivities are noon to 4 pm on the Middleton Park fields, SE 46th and Dolphin Drive.

MARCH 21

Easter Egg Eggstravaganza - Boiling Spring Lakes

There will be face painting, crafts, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and egg hunts for two ages groups (up to five years, and 6-10 years). The events starts at 10 am at Spring Lake Park, 210 Pine Road.

MARCH 24

Fall Prevention Seminar - Oak Island Senior Center The Dosher Memorial Hospital Physical Therapy Department will give a seminar on fall prevention at 2 pm at the Oak Island Senior Center, 5918 E Oak Island Drive. This informational session will provide guests with simple exercises and tips to improve balance, build strength, and stay safe on their feet. The speaker is Physical Therapist Scott Passingham, Manager of the Dosher Therapy Services Department. There will be time allotted for questions at the end of the presentation. This event is free of charge, and all are welcome. Please call Dosher Community Relations at 910-457-3900 with questions.

MARCH 27

Daughters of the American Revolution Historical Marker Dedication Dedication of a bronze marker honoring the men and women of the American Revolution will occur 10:30 am at the Brunswick County courthouse lawn (310 Government Center Drive, Bolivia). The marker, designed and made available through NSDAR, honors all individuals who supported our country’s fight for independence between the Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775 and the departure of the British from New York on November 26, 1783. Brunswick County residents of the era were actively involved in the war in many capacities. Brunswick Town Chapter NSDAR applied for the marker two years ago, held fundraisers, and accepted donations from many individuals and groups to purchase the marker. It will be on the east side of the courthouse lawn near the parking entrance, and a garden will be planted at the base. A color guard from American Legion Post 453 will open the ceremony which will be attended by state and county officials, NSDAR and SAR officers and members, and the public.

MARCH 28

Spring Fling - Leland

The Town of Leland will host Spring Fling, formerly Eggspedition, at the newly renovated Founders Park. The community can enjoy age-inclusive egg hunts, a trail of local organizations (plus even more candy!), face painting, and a variety of food trucks. Egg hunts times are divided among age groups, from 10 am to 12:30 pm. Visit https://www. townofleland.com/event/leland-springfling for a list of times.

MARCH 28

Spring Art Show - Oak Island

A reception from 5-7 pm kicks off a week of local artists’ works being displayed. There will be live music by Jesse Vipperman, finger foods and beverages. Attendees will also have the chance to vote for a People’s Choice Award, with ribbons presented to the winners. The reception and art display are at the Oak Island Recreation Center, 3003 E. Oak Island Drive.

MARCH 28 Bunny Hop - Ocean Isle Beach

Bring the family and your baskets to collect goodies from Ocean Isle Beach town staff, including police and fire, neighbors and local businesses. The Easter Bunny will be on site for pictures, and there will be games, face painting (for a small fee) and an ultimate Easter basket giveaway. The festivities are 1011:30 am at Town Center Park, 11 E. 2nd St.

MARCH 28

Family Game Night - VFW

The Boiling Spring Lakes VFW Post 10-400 hosts family game night, 6-8 pm. Board games are available, or you can bring your own. The VFW is at 3161 George II Highway (NC 87). Game night is open to the public and free to attend.

APRIL 11

Fundraiser by Chapter CB, P.E.O. Sisterhood, Southport A “Treasures in the Trunk” and Bake Sale will be held from 9 am to noon at the BCC Southport Campus parking lot (701 N. Lord St.) There will be 10 car trunks loaded with household items, glassware, pottery, jewelry, purses,

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

games, lamps, artwork, linens, holiday decorations and much more and two tables will be loaded with homemade baked items. Cash and checks only will be accepted; no credit cards. P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) has been motivating, educating and celebrating women for more than 155 years. Since its inception in 1869, the nonprofit organization has helped more than 129,000* women pursue educational goals by providing approximately $462 million* in grants, scholarships, awards and loans. To learn more about P.E.O., visit www.peointernational.org.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

701 N. Third St., Wilmington March 5-7 — Mama Mia!

March 14 — The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra performs Classical Connections March 15 — KC & The Sunshine Band March 18 — The Peking Acrobats March 19 — Shenandoah Visit https:// wilsoncentertickets.com for more information. March 20 — Aly & AJ March 21 — Be Like Blippi Tour March 22 — The North Carolina Symphony presents Beethoven “Emperor” Piano Concerto March 28 — Samara Joy March 31 — Lucius April 14 — Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band April 15-16 — Bert Kreischer April 17 — Magician and comedian Piff the Magic Dragon April 18-19 — City Ballet performs The Winter Queen April 24 — Jim Jeffries April 25 The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra, the Cape Fear Chorale and the UNCW Chorus team up to perform Carmina Burana April 28-30 — Kinky Boots Visit https://wilsoncentertickets.com

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 53

CALENDAR for more information.

Thalian Hall

310 Chestnut St., Wilmington

Feb 27-March 8 — Failed Deb Productions presents True Confessions of a Failed Debutante March 3 — Dance troupe Pilobolus performs Other Worlds March 5 — Three Italian Tenors March 6 — BASILE’S - BasileLicious World Tour March 7 — Mutts Gone Nuts March 13-15 — 1776 The Musical from the Thalian Association Community Theatre March 27 — Bluegrass Bash March 31 — Lincoln Center Jazz presents Great American Crooners April 2-12 — Big Dawg Productions presents The Hermit of Fort Fisher April 10-19 — The Wizard of Ox by the Thalian Association Community Theatre April 14 — Capitol Fools April 16 — Joshua Kane-Borders of the Mind April 16-19 — A Ride Through the Country, from Big Dawg Productions April 20 — Women of Americana April 23 — The Chase Brock Experience Check https://www.thalianhall.org/ calendar for more information.

Greenfield Lake Amphitheater

1941 Amphitheatre Dr., Wilmington

March 25 — The Infamous Stringdusters March 31 — Old Crow Medicine Show: O.C.M.S. Big Iron World Tour: Back to the Roots April 11 — Dog’s Out the Cage Tour April 16 — An Evening With - Greensky Bluegrass April 17 — Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country May 3 — Ani DiFranco w/ Special Guest Valerie June Visit https://www.livenation.com/venue/KovZ917A2qV/greenfield-lake-am-

phitheater-events for tickets.

ONGOING EVENTS

Friends of the Library

The Once More used bookstore, at Southport Realty (727 N. Howe St.), with new-to-you books, is open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and Saturdays 10 am to noon. Visit https:// folsoi.org/blog/ for information on upcoming programs. Barbee Library, 8200 E. Oak Island Drive: Call 910-278-4283 for details on children’s story time and other programs. The Lifelong Learners Group meets at 10 am on Thursdays. Other programs offered at the library include chair yoga, one-on-one tech support on Wednesdays from 1-3 pm, and more. Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., Southport: Call 910-457-6237 to register for programs. One-on-one tech support is offered on Thursdays, 1-3 pm. Leland Library, 487 Village Road NE: Baby storytime is at 10 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and Pre-K and older storytime is at 11 am on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Ruark Library, 5068 Main St., Shallotte Storytime for toddles and pre-K on Thursdays at 10:30 am, and the Teen Chess Club meets on Mondays at 4 pm. Southwest Brunswick Branch, 9400 Ocean Hwy West (U.S. 17), Carolina Shores: Move It Monday library workouts are at 9 am on Mondays. Chess Club meets on Tuesdays at 3 pm.

NC Maritime Museums - Southport 204 E. Moore St.

The Skipper’s Crew program for young visitors is on March 7 and 14. Skipper’s Crew programs are 10 am to 3 pm. The March 28 Deep Dive Into History program is “Dyeing for History.” The Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday 10 am to 4 pm at 204 E. Moore St., Southport. Admission is free, but donations are accepted and there is a gift shop too offering maritime and seasonal items for visitors of all ages. Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs.

Franklin Square Art Gallery

The Gallery is open 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday and can be

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

found next to Franklin Square Park.

First Friday Gallery Walk — Southport The First Friday Gallery Walk is 5-7 pm in Southport at participating galleries, such as Lantana’s, The Rickey Evans Gallery, the Franklin Square Art Gallery, Artisans on Howe and Southport Studio Artists. Stroll along, or jump on the trolley, browse in the shops, and see what

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 54

local artists have to offer. The first Gallery Walk for the year will be March 7.

Oak Island Recreation Department Join the Striders Club at various locations and dates/times to get out and about with a group or try your hand at art with a new class. There are book clubs, kayak tours in the Davis Canal, surf fishing lessons, and much more. Visit https://parksrec.egov.basgov.com/

Meet The Author

Book Events Throughout the County

oakislandnc for details on programs.

Town of Leland/Parks & Recreation Check out https://www.townofleland. com/parks-recreation-and-cultural-resources for more information on classes and programs, including starting an art journal, pottery, gardening, writing creative nonfiction, acting, dance and more.

Bingo at the Elks Lodge — Oak Island

Bingo games are on the second and fourth Tuesdays at the Lodge, 106 E. Dolphin Drive, Oak Island. Games are open to the public; no one under 16 and no outside food or drinks allowed. Doors open to the public at 5:45 pm with games starting at 6:30 pm. Snacks and drinks available for purchase (cash or checks only). Winner takes all coverall.

Battleship North Carolina — near Leland Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year. Visit https://battleshipnc.com/. The battleship site is at 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington (west side of the Cape Fear River).

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site 8884 St. Philips Rd. SE, Winnabow

There is plenty to do and see, with a museum, historic ruins, great information on the site’s history, and some of the most beautiful riverfront property in the County. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. .Museum of Coastal Carolina

21 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach

The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm (until 7 pm Tuesday and Thursday) and Sundays from noon until 4 pm. Touch tank feedings are Fridays at 11 am. Also open February 15-16 for President’s Day .Ingram Planetarium

7625 High Market St., Sunset Beach

The Planetarium is open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm; dome shows start on the hour from 11 am to 3 pm. Laser shows are on Fridays

and Saturdays at 6 pm and 7 pm. Visit https://museumplanetarium.org/ ingram-planetarium/ to see the show schedule.

Brunswick Newcomer’s Club — Southport

The Brunswick Newcomer’s Club is a non-profit social club of more than 300 adults who live in Southeastern Brunswick County, including the Boiling Springs, Bolivia, Leland, Oak Island, St. James, Shallotte, Southport and Supply areas. Meetings are held the third Tuesday morning of every month at 9:30 a.m. in Murrow Hall at Trinity United Methodist Church, 209 E. Nash St., Southport. For more information visit: Brunswick Newcomer’s Club or contact us at brunswick.newcomers@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.

Wilmington River Tours

212 S. Water St., Wilmington

Tour the beautiful Cape Fear River and learn more about the area’s history and ecology. Sunset cruises include acoustic music Thursdays through Sundays! Tours are offered daily, to the north along historic downtown Wilmington, the USS North Carolina Battleship and Eagles Island on the even hours, and to the south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and past the shipyard on the odd hours; visit https://wilmingtonwatertours. net/ for schedules and to purchase tickets.

Don’t see your event or location listed? Try as we might, we don’t catch everything, so to be sure to be included send your events to lisa@southportmag. com before the 20th of each month! Thank you!

ur local libraries host book and author events, which we’re happy to promote since we love everything about reading and writing. The Pelican Bookstore in Sunset Beach also hosts a series of book signings, held at the Silver Coast Winery, 6680 Barbeque Road, Ocean Isle Beach (mainland). The festivities start at 5:30 pm. Tickets are $45 and include a glass of wine, light hors d’oeuvres, a copy of the book, and a meet and greet with the author. For more details and a longer synopsis of the book selections, visit www. pelicanbookstore.com. March 20 Sandra Brown - “Bloodlust” Silver Coast Winery New York Times bestselling author Sandra Brown delivers a new signature sexy suspense about a detective seeking justice for his murdered wife with the help of a psychotherapist…while fighting an undeniable attraction to her. Brown has published more than 80 novels. March 20 Maria Pease - The Malicious Mystery Series Barbee Library, Oak Island Maria Pease is an author and educator who knows exactly how to get away with murder—on paper, anyway. Maria is the author of the Malicious Mystery series (“Malicious Intent,” “Malicious Secrets,” and “Malicious Desires”). Maria also writes charming books for children, proving her range is as wide as her imagination. A dedicated creative writing instructor for all ages, Maria is on a mission to prove that everyone has a great book inside them. When she’s not teaching or typing, you can find her plotting her next twist at www.mariapease.com. Space is limited; Registration is required. Visit https://brunsco.libcal.com/event/16228243 to register. March 21 NC Reads — “Daughters of Green Mountain Gap” Harper Library, Southport Meet author Terri M. Brown to discuss “Daughters of Green Mountain Gap,” a compelling novel about three generations of Appalachian women in the NC mountains at the turn of the 20th century with conflicting beliefs concerning traditional folk healing and modern science. UNCW Associate Professor Lynn Mollenauer helps lead the discussion at Harper Library, 109 W. Moore St., Southport. Sign up for one of two sessions —10 am or 2 pm. Visit the library, find the signup online through Brunswick County libraries, or call 910-253-1813. March 21 Local Author Talk with Marlene Dewitt Southwest Brunswick Branch Library, Carolina Shores Join local author R. Darlene Dewitt as she discusses her book, “Making Your Work Place Your Mission Field.” Drawing from a wide range of career experiences, she explores how personal beliefs can shape purpose, ethics, and workplace relationships. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. Thw event is 10 am to 12 noon.

Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 55

You Don’t Need Luck—You Just Need the Right Realtor! Buying or Selling? We’ll Help You Strike Gold!

l Carrol

B RO

ARROL

OPER

910.269.3049

DONNA FINDLAY dfindlayrealtor@gmail.com

Donna Findlay

Real estate success isn’t about four-leaf clovers or lucky charms—it’s about having the right agent by your side! Whether you’re searching for your dream home or hoping to sell for top dollar, we’ll guide you every step of the way with expert advice and proven strategies. No luck needed— just a great plan and the right team to make it happen!

Robert Carroll

ROBERT CARROLL robert@robertcarrollproperties.com 910.465.2717

Robert Carroll

PROPERTIES

319 N Howe Street, Southport, NC 28461 Celebrating Fourteen Years of Serving Our Community

Visit us at www.RobertCarrollProperties.com www.SouthportMag.com /March /March 2026/ 2026/ Southport Magazine 56