October 2025 Southport Magazine

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

M-F 7:30am-6:00pm

Saturday 8:00am-4:00pm Sunday 10:00am-3:00pm

ThisOctober issue marks the beginning of the 14th year of Southport Magazine! Happy Birthday to us! We are so very thankful for all our readers and advertisers and our writers and graphic artists that help us put this magazine out each month. This really is the best job in the world. That really hit home this month when I was writing the story on the Brunswick Town events coming up in October — Port Brunswick Days and the Great Pumpkin Blow-Out. I mentioned that those were two of my favorite events all year. Then it occurred to me that I’ll be writing the same thing next month about Brunswick Town’s Christmas activities. And it’ll be just as true. That’s what this job is like. Each month is fun, but there’s always more to look forward to. After Christmas it’ll be our Pet Issue. Then it’s Maggie Award time. Then it’s Spring and then summer and then fall, each with all of its own events and happenings that we get to share with all of you. We hope you enjoy reading Southport Magazine as much as we do creating it. Thank you!

STAFF

EDITOR

Jeffrey Stites

editor@southportmag.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Lisa P. Stites

lisa@southportmag.com

LEAD DESIGNER

Liz Brinker

lcbgraphicdesign@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

Chuck and Sue Cothran

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Carla Edstrom

Patty Langer

Loiuse Sheffield-Baccarny

Janet Fortney

Dana Jordan

Lisa P. Stites

Jeffrey Stites

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jeffrey Stites

PUBLISHER & SALES

Jeffrey Stites

jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

CONSULTANT

Kris Beasley

PO Box 10175, Southport, NC 28461

Southport Magazine is published once a month by

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

jeff@southportmag.com 910-471-7741

Community Green Swamp Tour

Discovering Our Local Natural Wonders

STORY AND PHOTOS BY PATRICIA LANGER

Ifyou’ve ever driven the stretch of N.C. 211 from the intersection of U.S. 17 in Supply to the intersection of U.S. 74 in Bolton, you’re familiar with the fact that its about 34 miles of, well, not much. The straight, flat highway is surrounded by a dense pine forest and isn’t particularly scenic. And if you’ve ever driven this stretch at night, when the sky is overcast and there isn’t a star to be found, you might find that the utter darkness, sketchy cell service, and complete lack of civilization make it downright spooky.

You may be surprised to learn that on this stretch of lonely highway, there’s a sandy parking lot marked by a very small green sign that says, simply “parking.” If you pull into the lot and step out into the woods – stay with me here – you’ll find that you are now in the Green Swamp Preserve, an enchanting forest filled with exotic plants, birds and wildlife. However, I would not recommend that you do this alone. Southport-based Adventure Kayak Company offers guided tours through the Green Swamp Preserve yearround, so if you want to see rare, carnivorous plants and exotic flowers, this tour is the way to go!

I was lucky enough to tag along on a tour arranged for the Southport Garden

Club, led by Adventure Kayak nature guide Nick Harper. Nick, it seems, has spent most of his adult life in the woods. He was trained by the Nature Conservancy as a wildlife firefighter, then went on to create his own consulting business working with stream restoration and habitat management. After the birth of his daughter, Nick developed a desire to stick closer to home and joined the team at Adventure Kayak. His knowledge of plant life and natural habitats is extensive and impressive.

A Lesson About the Preserve

Our experience actually began a few weeks ahead of our tour, when Nick and the owner of Adventure Kayak Company, Emma Thomas, presented a talk on the Green Swamp Preserve at the Southport Garden Club’s annual fall meeting. Nearly 40 people attended the meeting, and I have to say, the flower arrangements adorning each table were lovely!

The Preserve, established in 1977 and managed by the Nature Conservancy, contains 17,400 acres of longleaf pine. We learned that the area used to serve as an industrial site for the extraction of pine pitch, tar and turpentine, used primarily for ship building. Longleaf pines, noted for their strong, straight wood, were also

used for ship masts and building materials. What was once a vast forest spreading through the southeastern part of the state was eventually exploited, shrinking from 90 million acres to just 3.5 million acres. Nowadays, the Nature Conservancy’s main goal in the Green Swamp is to restore and preserve this ecologically and historically significant area.

The Nature Conservancy manages the Green Swamp through controlled burns that allow trees to grow and new plant life to thrive. They issue “prescriptions” for different sections every two to five years, based on the condition of the forest and the desired outcome. Nick explained that longleaf pines are “fire-adaptive” trees. The cute, Dr. Seuss-like saplings we commonly see remain dormant for a few years while waiting for a fire. Once the fire comes through, the saplings shoot up quickly until their branches reach above the fire level, safe from the next burn. Most of the plants and shrubs in the Green Swamp are fire-adaptive in some fashion.

cies there. Nick told us that he regularly sees people from all over the country, and even other countries, who travel to the Green Swamp to see the carnivorous plants that inhabit the area. Carnivorous plants are flora that have adapted to nutrient-poor soil by eating insects. There are 14 species of carnivorous plants that thrive in the Green Swamp, the most famous being the Venus flytrap.

Carnivorous Plants and Exotic Species

The Venus flytrap, native only in southeastern North Carolina and northwestern South Carolina, is a federally protected plant that you cannot pick. It does indeed eat flies, as well as spiders and other small insects. Bugs are lured into the plant’s bright red pod, where tiny trigger hairs sense the victim and engage a locking mechanism. Once trapped inside, the Venus flytrap uses digestive juices to draw nutrients from the bug, leaving an empty carcass in its wake.

Pitcher plants are another type of carnivorous plant found in the Green Swamp. The cone-shaped leaves lure insects down a slippery slope that they can’t climb out of. All, that is, except the clever green linx spider, who uses its silk web to rappel down into the plant, snatching insects and carrying them back up to feast on.

Blue flower bladderwort, another carnivorous plant, resides in the swampy areas of the Preserve. This pretty aquatic plant eats everything from insects to tiny fish. The trigger hairs in bladderwort activate a mechanism that snaps open a bladder-shaped pod so quickly, it creates

The Green Swamp Preserve is one of the most biodiverse places in our country, full of rare and important plant species. All the North Carolina universities have research programs that visit the Green Swamp to study plant life. Even today, researchers are still discovering new plant spe-

a vacuum that sucks its victims in.

Sightings on the Trail

Our hike began bright and early at 7:30 am, as the fog was just lifting and sunlight filtered down through the tall pines. A cheerful soundtrack was provided by buzzing bees, humming dragonflies, chirping tree crickets, and the highpitched whine of cicadas.

There is only one marked path through the preserve, indicated by red triangles. It begins on a wide, sandy path, then moves across a metal boardwalk through the bog, then into a denser area on a narrow footpath. The one-way trail is 1.3 miles long and is a flat, easy walk. It passes through 3 distinct longleaf pine savannahs and a “Pocosin” swamp. Pocosin is a Native American word that means swamp on a hill. Pocosins are not as wet

There are hundreds of other flowering plants in the Green Swamp Preserve — not all as ferocious as the carnivores. Look closely and you’ll find blazing star, fetterbush, fairy wand, chaffhead, irises, and at least 18 species of orchids that bloom spring through fall. You’ll also see bamboo, yaupon holly, bayberry and blueberry bushes. Among my favorites are the numerous fern varietals that display changing colors in the fall.

as other types of swamps, and are characterized by their peat soil and dense, woody vegetation.

“Each area we enter looks so different, almost like it’s been staged” observed

Kay Ross, current president of the Southport Garden Club, as she admired the beautiful pine savannahs.

Our group walked about one mile in, stopping frequently to observe various plants.

“Look low and slow,” Nick instructed us. “Most people think the Venus Fly trap is a big, hulking plant, probably based on all the movie lore, but it’s actually very small. People walk right past it all the time because they are looking up instead of down at the ground.”

“It’s amazing what you pass by without realizing it,” said Garden Club member Clarissa Owenby.

“Your focus really narrows once you know what you are looking for,” Nick responded.

Once we all got the hang of it, we were not disappointed. Over the course of about two hours, we were excited to see all four types of pitcher plants: large clusters of yellow, green, and purple pitchers standing tall amongst shrubs, and the petite, hooded pitcher plant hid-

ing under the ferns. We were also excited to find numerous clumps of the low-growing Venus flytraps! Nick pointed out a few deceptively dainty-looking sundew plants that would have been easy to miss without a guide’s trained eye.

Sundews are another type of carnivorous plant. The tiny, intricate buds resemble bursting fireworks, with tentacles protruding from a round center. There are small drops at the end of each tentacle that resemble dew drops, but are, in fact, a sticky substance the plant secretes to trap small bugs.

the orb weaver spiders are not poisonous, and thankfully, their webs were spun very high up in the trees, far away from the trail. We also saw one small, green tree snake cleverly disguised in the leaves. Yes, there are snakes in the Green Swamp Preserve and yes, some of them are venomous. Nick assured us that if we stayed on the path and didn’t wander into the brush, the snakes would sense our footsteps and slither away from us, not toward us. Nick also assured us that he would be our lookout for the rest of the hike!

For more information about the Green Swamp Preserve nature tour, or other tours offered through the Adventure Kayak Company, visit: www.theadventurecompany.net or call (910) 454-0607.

In addition to all the amazing plants, we saw lots of spectacular spider webs glistening in the sunlight. Thankfully,

For more information on the Green Swamp Preserve, visit: nature.org/northcarolina

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More Than A Market

The Capps Family Carries On Clems Traditions

STORY BY DANA JORDAN

If you’ve spent any time in Oak Island or Southport, you’ve probably heard of Clem’s Seafood. For decades, it’s been the place where locals swing by after work for shrimp fresh off the boat, or where vacationers grab a few pounds of grouper before heading back to the beach house. Clem’s isn’t just a seafood market — it’s part of the rhythm of coastal life here.

A Legacy Rooted in Family Clem’s has always held a special place in the community’s heart because of the personal touch the Clemmons family gave their customers. They wanted people to know how much they were appreciated, and in return, Southport wrapped its arms around Clem’s.

The story begins with Elton “Clem” Clemmons, who spent the 1970s working a shrimp boat, netting fish and crabbing, and selling seafood on week-

ends from the spot that would one day become the market. Local fishermen loved Clem. They knew they could stop by his house, knock on the door, and he’d get them bait. Nearly every longtime resident and visitor remembers Clem sitting out front in his chair, ready to greet anyone who stopped by.

Clem passed his knowledge and passion to his son, Jeff, who at just 12 years old sold minnows and worms to local fishermen — leaving a box out front for them to drop in their money while he was at school.

The seafood market officially opened in 1980, operating seven days a week. Jeff and his wife, Kathy, were there from the start, helping keep the counters full and customers happy. When Elton retired in 1994, Jeff and Kathy took over, carrying forward his knowledge, passion, and reputation for fairness and friendliness.

The Clemmons family built their business on lasting friendships with customers and the kind of service that feels nostalgic today. If a family headed to Oak Island, Caswell, or Bald Head couldn’t make it before closing at 7 pm, all they had to do was call. The Clemmons would leave seafood or bait in a cooler by the back door, and the customer would

swing by the next day to pay. That kind of trust and neighborliness made Clem’s beloved.

A New Chapter with the Capps Family

Last year, when the “Closed” sign lingered a little too long on Clem’s front door, folks worried they’d lost a piece of the town’s heart. But then came the news: Cindy and James Capps, owners of Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill, were taking the helm. And just like that, the smell of fresh fish and the friendly “Hey there!” from behind the counter returned.

For Cindy, the connection to Clem’s was personal even before the purchase.

“We were customers prior to taking over the market. I loved

their shrimp and crabs! Robert, our son, is a commercial and charter fisherman and was a regular customer, too,” she recalled. So for the Capps, buying Clem’s wasn’t just business — it was about preserving a place their family already loved.

Rusty Hooks had already given the Capps family plenty of experience working with fresh, local seafood. Robert supplied much of the catch for the restaurant, and taking over Clem’s created a natural bridge between the dock, the kitchen, and the market. “It was a perfect fit for our family and for our business,” said Cindy. “We couldn’t imagine our community without Clem’s Seafood. Their core value of placing the customer first matched ours.…we loved the idea of keeping this community staple alive and have tried to honor its legacy.”

Continuing

the Tradition

The two enterprises truly feed off one another. While Cindy and James focus on efficiency, strategic planning, team building, and investing back into the

Business Feature

community, their children are hands-on with daily operations.

Robert, the oldest, manages Clem’s day-to-day business and also captains shrimp and crab boats, making sure the market’s staples stay well-stocked. A former charter captain, he misses his regular passengers, but he now thrives on the challenge of running the market. Meanwhile, the youngest son, Brian, runs the restaurant side at Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill. Having grown up in the business, he takes deep pride in creating the kind of dining experience that keeps guests returning. Their spouses, Lydia and Carrie, are also key players, ensuring that service, food quality, and company culture all meet the family’s high standards.

And the next generation is already getting an early start. Sailor, the eldest granddaughter at just four years of age, has already been on the shrimp boat and can often be found along the banks

catching fiddler crabs — proof that the family’s

fishing legacy is anchored firmly in the future.

As Cindy put it, “This is truly a family affair. Robert and Brian may be running the day-to-day, but their heart for the water and for people carries forward the tradition we’re so proud to be part of.”

She added, “I consider myself the luckiest wife, mother, and grandmother. Family has always come first for me, and I have the joy of working alongside my husband and grown children. I get to see my beautiful granddaughters every day, and we’re excited to welcome our fourth baby girl around Christmas! Honestly, I don’t know where I’d be if it weren’t for the restaurant and this family business.”

More Than a Market

What makes this new chapter especially meaningful is how wholeheartedly the community has embraced it. Longtime customers quickly discovered that while Clem’s may have new owners, its spirit remains unchanged, because the Capps family has been intentional about honoring everything that made the market special — the coffee pot that coaxes fishermen to linger and swap stories, the box kids climb to peek at minnows darting in the tanks, and the old wooden crab game dangling from the ceiling.

Locals still swing by for bait or shrimp, and tourists still count a stop at Clem’s as part of their beach-trip ritual. “Customers have thanked us for not only preserving the tradition, but also for keeping the best parts of Clem’s the same. My favorite stories, though, are when people tell us they came here as kids, and now they’re bringing their own children,” Cindy said.

With generations of families passing through its doors, grateful that the Clem’s magic endures, it’s clear this beloved market is far more than a stop on the way to the water. It’s part of people’s lives.

Cooking Up Something New

While the Capps family has worked hard to preserve Clem’s nostalgic character, they’ve also introduced thoughtful updates to keep the market vibrant. The most significant change has been the addition of a commercial kitchen and takeout window—something born directly from customer requests.

“People would often ask us to steam their crabs,” Cindy explained. “Now, not only can you order platters, po’ boys, and hush puppies to go, but you can also pick something fresh from the market and we’ll cook it for you.”

“We take our cues from our customers and make adjustments,” said Cindy. “We will always look for opportunities to stay vital and move forward while preserving the tradition of the ‘old country store’ and community staple known as Clem’s Seafood Market!”

Looking ahead, the Capps plan to continue blending tradition with innovation, whether by bottling their own hot sauce and Bloody Mary mix, offering more prepared dinners for families on the go, or expanding Rusty Hooks favorites available at Clem’s. For now, though, Cindy says their focus is on nurturing both the market and the kitchen, ensuring Clem’s continues to thrive as a cornerstone of coastal life.

The kitchen has also become a bridge between Clem’s and Rusty Hooks, offering signature favorites like crab cakes, crab dip, and house-made sauces. Shoppers can now find an expanded selection that includes beer, wine, and THC beverages, along with cookbooks, décor, Toadfish tools, and other coastal-inspired goods.

Community Flytrap Conservation

Documentary Highlights Local Efforts

STORY BY JANET FORTNEY, PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

The iconic Venus flytraps of Southeastern North Carolina – and the tireless local conservationists, volunteers, scientists, and wildlife officers who nurture them – are the focus of two-time Emmy-winning British filmmaker Robert Ford’s film “Flytrap Town.” The feature-length documentary that Ford has been producing in Brunswick and New Hanover counties, including Boiling Spring Lakes, Green Swamp Preserve, and Wilmington, will share the story of the extraordinary carnivorous plant and the fight to save it from development and other threats.

“The Carolinas,” explained Ford, “are the only place on earth where Venus flytraps grow wild, and yet they’re vanishing in plain sight. This film is both a celebration of the awe-inspiring flytrap and a tribute to the people on the frontlines of protecting it.” The passion and dedication of the volunteers, according to the filmmakers, forms the emotional core of the documentary, showing that conservation is not just the work of scientists and governments.

“Working with North Carolinians has been inspiring,” Ford said. “People here have opened their doors and their land to me and they’ve been incredibly generous with their time and knowledge. It’s clear

how much pride they take in the Venus flytrap and the unique ecosystems of the area. That authenticity and warmth has really shaped the film.”

Ford said that “what’s most striking is the persistence of local conservationists. Many of these folks are volunteers, yet they put in hours of hard work – from surveying flytrap populations to moving them onto safe ground – often without recognition. People are willing to get their hands dirty and their commitment shows how much the flytrap means to the community. It’s a level of dedication that deserves to be celebrated, and one of the reasons we’re working so hard to get this story funded and out into the world.”

As Ford mentioned, at this time, the documentary’s completion is at stake due to budget constraints and the filmmakers are seeking additional financing.

Southern Conservation Partners, a 501(c)(3) charity, has sponsored “Flytrap Town” and it has also received support from the Film Partnership of North Carolina.

- and raising the funds to do it right - feels so urgent.”

Boiling Spring Lakes resident and flytrap advocate Kathy Sykes remembers that specific day as well.

One Saturday afternoon this past April, Ford, his film crew, and the Venus Flytrap Champions – a group of committed local participants – were in Boiling Spring Lakes (BSL), according to the Champion’s website, “to dig up Venus Flytraps threatened by construction and move them to safe ground. These flytrap relocations are known as ‘rescue missions’ and the volunteers are ready to mobilize at short notice, dedicating their time and passion to the iconic plant.”

“One moment I’ll never forget,” said Ford, “was being with the group that relocated flytraps from [that] patch of land that was bulldozed soon after. Each plant was dug up and replanted by hand, with such care it felt almost ceremonial. It was a powerful reminder of both the fragility of these plants and the love local people have for them. It underscored why finishing this film

“Saturday April 26, 2025, was a banner day for our little dedicated [BSL] Plant Rescue Volunteer Group,” she reports on the group’s website. “This marks the eighth effort to save our precious natural treasure of Venus flytraps from imminent annihilation from that most dangerous wildfire of all – destruction of habitat. It’s my understanding that we have now hit the monumental milestone of saving 2,000 plants! That’s quite an undertaking for just a handful of folks!

“Although our uniforms were mismatched, our hearts were in unison as we marched to our appointed destination, where the flytraps would be lovingly planted into a safe place, free from the threat of man-made destruction. It doesn’t matter how protected the plant is if the habitat isn’t protected.”

“Flytrap Town,” which, according to the film’s producers, will “feature state-of-theart macro photography of the flytraps with a level of detail never seen on screen before is poised to reach audiences worldwide. The filmmakers will bring the documentary to North Carolina through a community impact campaign, with screenings for schools, conservation groups, and policymakers to inspire awareness and action close to home.”

More about the film and how to donate to its production is available at www.flytrapfilm. com.

Community Community Radio

Catching Up With Cape Fear Radio

STORY BY DANA JORDAN

When Southport Magazine first introduced readers to Cape Fear Radio in the summer of 2024, the question was simple: What if there were a local, nonprofit, internet-based radio station that felt as free and easy as AM/FM, but with the variety of streaming, the heart of a hometown, and real, live people behind the mic?

The answer came in the form of Cape Fear Radio (CFR), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit internet radio station originally based in The State Port Pilot building. The station launched last June, and in just over a year, CFR has gone from a curious alternative to a thriving community institution.

Now, the fun-loving group of presenters is turning the page again with the opening of a public-facing studio at Crossroads Gathering Place on Oak Island — an exciting milestone that literally puts the station’s energy right in the heart of the community it serves.

A Small Team with Big Vision

At its launch, Cape Fear Radio was a small team of six with a vision: make music discovery local, fun, and inclusive. The co-founders preferred “presenters” to the term “DJs” — because their goal wasn’t just spinning tracks — they wanted to create real connections.

When Southport Magazine checked in during their first summer, CFR had already

wowed the crowds at the Southport 4th of July Festival with live broadcasts from the Waterfront Stage. Feedback was enthusiastic, and listeners were quickly tuning in via their app, website player, or through Bluetooth speakers and car radios.

From there, momentum snowballed. Within months, CFR expanded from six volunteers to more than two dozen team members, with 16 presenters offering everything from country and Motown to jazz, vinyl cuts, and experimental tracks. Anchor programs like The Cape Fear Breakfast Show and Good Morning Cape Fear were soon joined by creative offerings such as Tracks Less Traveled, Jazz and More, Musical Crossroads, and Vinyl Days.

Advertisers — including community fixtures like Dosher Memorial Hospital and Margaret Rudd & Associates — jumped on board quickly. Their support helped CFR stabilize operations, while the station’s pledge to reinvest all profits back into local nonprofits made it an easy “yes” for sponsors who wanted to be part of something bigger than advertising. As co-founder Russ Yarrow noted at the time: “Together, we’re reinvesting in stronger communities.”

Milestones and Community Grants

Looking back, Yarrow sees the last year as a series of milestones:

•Growing from five to more than 50 volunteers — presenters, newscasters, sports and weather experts, technicians, programmers, and event managers.

•Expanding capabilities with live broadcasts from signature events like the Southport 4th of July Festival, Oak Island’s Summer Concert Series at Middleton Park, and the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament.

•Enhancing technology with new features on the CFR app, including “Listen Again,” which allows listeners to replay shows for up to 30 days.

•Awarding their first two community grants: one to Brunswick Family Assistance and another to Southport Cares.

Those first grants symbolize a deeper mission. Brunswick Family Assistance supports food security, rental assistance, and school supplies, while Southport Cares — started by the Southport Fire Department — helps with needs that extend beyond the first responder call.

“The focus of our Community Reinvestment Initiative is to support a range of local nonprofits that help make our community stronger and more resilient,” Yarrow explained. “As Brunswick County grows, so do the needs, and we hope to play a role in helping our nonprofits grow.”

Crossroads Studio: Bringing Radio to the Public

CFR’s first studio inside The State Port Pilot remains important, serving as a base for training, long-form interviews, and podcasts. But when Crossroads Gathering Place offered space in Oak Island, the team jumped.

“It’s a great location near the Intracoastal Waterway and expands our physical footprint,” Yarrow said. “Since we now have studios near the Cape Fear

River and the ICW, we like to say we’ve gone bicoastal!”

The Crossroads studio is designed for visibility and access. Presenters will work there daily, while the public can stop by, peek inside, and occasionally participate. “It puts us right in the middle of community life,” Yarrow added.

Volunteers, Listeners, and Momentum

With more than 50 volunteers, CFR has become a hub of local passion. “The biggest advantage of having an all-volunteer staff is that everyone approaches their job with excitement and passion,” Yarrow said. “You can’t ask for more than that.”

That passion translates to listeners. In August alone, CFR logged more than 10,000 listening hours, with average sessions lasting over an hour. “Because of the quality of our music and features — and our mission to give back — we don’t think there’s any other radio station you need other than Cape Fear Radio,” Yarrow states.

Newscasts have expanded into sports and weather, with Mike Spendley covering local sports and Hank Pomeranz offering trusted weather updates. These additions round out CFR’s “full package” of local content.

Looking Ahead

Yarrow isn’t shy about dreaming big. Five years from now, he envisions CFR as an even stronger cultural force in Southeast Brunswick County — highlighting local musicians, spotlighting arts and history, expanding community partnerships, and continuing to reinvest in nonprofits. “We want to lift up Southeast Brunswick County,” Yarrow said. “We’re radio that is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

Radio of the People

Cape Fear Radio’s story proves what community passion can achieve. It’s still free. It’s still accessible anywhere. And now, it’s right there — in the middle of Oak Island life — inviting everyone to stop by, say hello, and see for themselves what “radio of the people” really sounds like.

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Big Fun, Big Toy Day

Kids of All Ages Can Get Up Close To Equipment

STORY CONTRIBUTED

Firetrucks. helicopters, and other large, motorized vehicles will be staged at the Cape Fear Regional Jetport Saturday, Oct. 18 for Big Toy Day, a family-friendly event hosted annually by the Kiwanis Club of Southport-Oak Island.

The highly anticipated affair offers children of all ages an opportunity to climb aboard firetrucks, ambulances, military and law enforcement vehicles, and a variety of other heavy equipment to get a feel for what it’s like to operate them. There will also be planes, helicopters, water rescue boats, and various other “toys” of interest. Bounce houses and food vendors will also be on site.

Families are invited to join the fun beginning at 10 am. Festivities conclude at 3 pm. Admission and parking are free, but a $10 per car donation would be welcomed. Contributions received will support a variety of Kiwanis-supported youth programs in Brunswick County. The proceeds will also fund scholarships for deserving Brunswick County high school seniors who are college bound, as well as eligible Brunswick Community College students.

A highlight for children ages 8-17 are free airplane rides between 10:30 am and 1 pm, courtesy of the aviation group EAA Chap-

ter 939. Dubbed Young Eagle Flights, they will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and will require written approval by a parent or legal guardian who is present. In most cases, grandparents do not qualify as legal guardians.

Kiwanis Club of Southport-Oak Island is dedicated to serving the children of Brunswick County through service, education, guidance, and leadership. The club supports numerous programs in the county’s elementary, middle, and high schools designed to instill a life-long commitment to service and to develop the skills necessary to become community leaders. The organization also supports projects like Matthew’s Ministry, the Tim Tebow Foundation’s Night to Shine initiative, and local food pantries through a Giving Garden.

Visit www.SOIKiwanis.org to learn more about Kiwanis.

Holiday Home Tour

A Winterfest Tradition Not To Be Missed

STORY CONTRIBUTED

DowntownSouthport looks like a Christmas greeting card when decorated for the holidays, and each year, some homeowners open their doors to share more of their welcoming holiday decor. It’s the Annual Holiday Tour of Homes, and this year’s tour is happening on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 11 am to 5 pm. This much-anticipated event anchors the City’s Winterfest Festival and is presented by the Southport Historical Society (SHS) and Downtown Southport Inc. (DSI).

“The SHS board of directors and Holiday Tour of Homes committee members are excited to welcome DSI as a partner for the first time this year,” said Liz Fuller, President of the SHS. “We feel the missions of our organizations are a perfect fit to continue to expand upon the value the Tour brings to our community.”

The Holiday Tour of Homes is part of the City of Southport’s annual week-long, Winterfest Festival and is always held on the second weekend of December. Over 100 volunteers will be involved in organizing, promoting and hosting this year’s Tour along with the gracious homeowners. Every guest ticket-holder will be welcomed by volunteer docents who share the history and special features of the homes. Every home on the tour has a story, a uniqueness and a welcoming vibe. After several soldout years, the Tour Committee is offering 1,000 tickets this year, thus opening the

door for more community members and visitors to take part in the tour.

This year, nine homes and one church will be opened to ticket holders. Randy Jones, President of DSI said he is enthusiastic about the line-up, “From historic homes to restored and renovated homes to newly constructed homes, we have a great mix. The homes and church are also in clusters throughout the City thus making getting around even easier.”

Each year the tour primarily draws people from Southport, Brunswick County, New Hanover County and throughout North and South Carolina. “It’s often a family tradition with people dining in one of our many recognized restaurants, visiting their favorite shops, going on tour, then enjoying the rest of Winterfest’s activities on December 13, including the annual Flotilla,” Jones said. Tickets go on sale to the public on Nov. 19 and are available until they are sold out. Tickets will only be available online at www. SouthportHistoricalSociety.org. Paid members of the Southport Historical Society may purchase tickets beginning Sept. 30, 2025; visit https:// www.southporthistoricalsociety.org/get-involved/become-a-member/ to join the Society and get advance tickets for the tour. Details will be sent to members via the email on file with the SHS.

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Home & Lifestyle Show and US Open

Southport-Oak Island Chamber of Commerce

Discover the best in home, garden, and coastal living at this annual public event hosted by the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce, and meet local businesses who can help with projects big and small, find inspiration, and enjoy free giveaways from participating vendors. The 5th annual Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 10 am to 1 pm at Middleton Park Pavilion area, 4610 E. Dolphin Drive, Oak Island.

Admission is free and open to the public. This outdoor show will highlight nearly 40 businesses that specialize in home maintenance and repair, outdoor living and supporting a healthy and active lifestyle. There will be live music by The Good Times Trio, giveaways, and a chance to enter a drawing for a chance to win $200.

“The Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase provides an opportunity for residents and second homeowners to connect with many of the area businesses that provide home and lifestyle product and services in a fun and casual setting,” said Kevin Annas, event chairman for the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce. “This annual event is one of the ways the Chamber fulfills its mission of creating opportunities for the local business community and supports the

residents in our area.”

Business owners who would like to participate in the showcase are encouraged to complete the online application at coastalhomeandlifestyleshow.com by Oct. 9. The show is open to chamber member businesses and non-members. The vendor fee is $75 for members ($200 for non-members) and $50 for member food and beverage businesses and non-profit organizations ($150 non-members).

The Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase is an event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and is sponsored by The State Port Pilot, Southport Magazine, and SPT-OKI Magazine. For more information about the showcase please call 910-457-6964 or email info@southport-oakisland.com.

US Open King Mackeral Tournament Info

The47th Annual U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament is right around the corner! This year’s event will take place Oct. 2-4 at Dutchman Creek Park on Fish Factory Road.

Recognized as one of the largest king mackerel tournaments on the East Coast and part of the Southern Kingfish Association (SKA) Tournament Trail, the U.S. Open attracted 565 boats in 2024 and paid out more than $425,000 in cash prizes.

The tournament offers an all-cash guaranteed prize structure that does not depend on participation numbers, paying 55 places in its primary category, including $25,000 for the largest king mackerel. More than 40 sponsors contribute additional prize money, making this a must-fish event for competitive anglers.

Spectators and participants alike can look forward to a lively tournament atmosphere, complete with food trucks, live entertainment (Thursday – Almost Blue, 4-7 pm; Saturday – The 52nd Street Band, 5-8 pm), a sponsor showcase, and the thrill of watching anglers bring in their catches to be weighed.

The tournament will continue with its “lines in the water” format adopted last year, eliminating physical checkouts.

The U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament will mail prize checks, but that won’t diminish the excitement at the Awards Party on Saturday, October 4, at Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill. The 52nd Street Band will perform from 5–8 pm, followed by the awards ceremony at 8 pm.

Tournament participants attending the ceremony will be entered for a chance to win a week-long stay in Costa Rica (airfare not included) sponsored by FishingNosara. com, or a Goat BoxCo Hub 50 cooler with the tournament logo. In addition to cash prizes, the top three overall winners will each receive a custom trophy by local artist George Kinley (Copper by George), a Goat BoxCo Hub cooler with the tournament logo, and a Battery Tender charger.

The World on Your Plate

Count Dracula’s Feast!

Contracts • Robust and Flavorful Specials for each Meal Service

• A broader Range of Authentic International Cuisines • An increasing variety of House made desserts

As we celebrate Our 15th year

Look for us to take bright new steps in sharing the food, culture and lives of our local and global communities.

• Call 910-457-4544 to book your event. Lunch event availability is widely available, but also Dinner and Brunch events are welcome.

• Our Chef and his Creative Team are working on New Fall/Winter Menus for Lunch, Dinner, and Brunch. Whole Fresh Food will be emphasized, with most meals being cooked to Order.

• Our fresh Ingredient, Craft Mixed Beverage Program will be sustained and expanded.

Thank you for voting us: Maggie Award: “Best International Cuisine” People’s Choice Awards:“Best Bistro” and,“Best Martini” SAVE THE DATE

• Using our Space & Services to foster Unity: Out of Many One!

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

Food Court

•Thursday, noon to 7 pm – Easy Eats Food Truck, Candy Girl Sweet Truck, Big Pups Coffee Co., Lil & John’s Sweetreat Homemade Ice Cream

•Friday, noon to 5 pm – Easy Eats, Candy Girl Sweet Truck, Big Pups Coffee Co., Lil & John’s Sweetreat Homemade Ice Cream

•Saturday, 11 am to 4 pm – Wallace Catering, Candy Girl Sweet Truck, Big Pups Coffee Co., Lil & John’s Sweetreat Homemade Ice Cream

Sponsor Showcase

Visit the Grand Patron Sponsor Showcase at Dutchman Creek Park Oct. 2-4, featuring:

Battery Tender, Better Beach Rentals & Sales, Bob King Buick GMC, Brunswick Electric Membership Corp., Builders First Source, Dutchman Creek Bait & Tackle, Garmin International, Hamilton Realty Group eXp Realty, Interstate Sign Co. Inc., MOcean Contracting, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill, Safe Harbor South Harbour Village, and the SKA.

Registration

•Early Bird Registration: Online, postmarked, or at the Chamber’s Welcome Center by midnight, Friday, Sept. 12.

•Online Registration: Closes Sept. 30 at 11 pm

•On-site Registration: Oct. 2, 10 am to 9 pm at Dutchman Creek Park

Packet Pickup & Captain’s Meeting

•Packet Pickup: Oct. 2, 10 am to 9 pm at Dutchman Creek Park

•Live Music: Almost Blue performs 4-7 pm

•Captain’s Meeting: Oct. 2 at 7 pm in person at Dutchman Creek Park or online at www.usopenkmtlive.com (important rule updates announced here)

Weigh-ins

Watch live at Dutchman Creek Park or online via www.usopenkmt.com, PointClickFish will live stream on Friday (2-5 pm) and Saturday (2-4 pm).

Merchandise

Available until Sept. 30 online at www.sptokimerchandise.com and in person at the Chamber Welcome Center (M-F, 8:30 am to 5 pm).  Also available at Dutchman Creek Park during the tournament while supplies last.

Awards Ceremony

•Saturday, Oct. 4 at 8 pm at Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill

•Live music from The 52nd Street Band, 5-8 pm

•Parking available at Dutchman Creek Park and Shoreline Baptist Church

For details: Visit www.usopenkmt.com, call 910-457-5787 or 800-457-6964,  email karen@southport-oakisland.com  or stop in at the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce, 4433 Long Beach Road, SE, Southport.

with the precision of Mako

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

Soup For Charity

Take Home Dinner And A Unique Bowl

STORY AND PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Franklin Square Gallery and the Associated Artists of Southport (AAS) are in the final stages of preparation for Empty Bowls, a grassroots fundraising project to fight hunger and food insecurity in our community. This long-awaited event takes place on Oct. 14, from 11 am to 2 pm, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 209 E. Nash St., in downtown Southport. It promises to be a wonderful charitable event, supported by dozens of local businesses and community organizations, with all proceeds going to Matthew’s Ministry, Brunswick Family Assistance, and Southport-Oak Island Interchurch Fellowship Food Pantry.

The Empty Bowls movement began in Michigan in 1990, when a high school pottery teacher and his students hosted the first of such events. Their goal was to raise money and awareness to end hunger and fight food insecurity. “Empty Bowls” events are now hosted by art communities worldwide. As envisioned by AAS, its goal here is to “eliminate hunger in Brunswick County, one bowl at a time.” Potters and painters at Franklin Square Gallery have thus joined together to create hundreds of beautiful, handmade ceramic soup bowls, each of which is being donated for purchase by supporters. At the event on Oct. 14, supporters who have purchased a $30 ticket will receive a simple meal of soup and bread to take home, donated by dozens of local participating restaurants, and a beautiful bowl created by our artists. There will also be a raffle and silent auction of wonderful gift items and experiences donated by local businesses and organizations, available on the day of the event.

An empty bowl is a reminder of individuals who go hungry everyday. Supporting this event by purchasing a ticket is a simple gesture and act of kindness that allows everyone to make a difference in our community. To purchase a ticket in advance or to become a sponsor, please visit Franklin Square Gallery’s website at https://www.franklinsquaregallery.com/empty-bowls. Tickets may also be purchased at the door on the day of the event at Trinity United Methodist Church.

Franklin Square Gallery, the home of AAS, is a cooperative of more than 120 artists and is seeking new members. It is located at 130 E. West St. in the heart of historic downtown Southport, NC. With support from the Brunswick Arts Council ARPA Program, a Designated County Partner of the North Carolina Arts Council, the Gallery embodies the rich artistic culture that thrives in Southport. It offers original art and pottery for sale and is open to the public, free of charge, from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.

3rd Annual Boat Pull

Jack Helbig Foundation Fundraiser

While you’re enjoying the Southport Wooden Boat Show downtown on Saturday, November 1, be sure to stop by Morningstar Marina beginning at 12 pm for the 3rd Annual Boat Pull a high-energy fundraiser benefiting the Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation (JHMF). Teams of six will compete to pull a 15,000 lb. boat across the finish line—all in the name of drowning prevention and water safety education.

Every dollar raised supports JHMF’s mission to educate children and families about water safety, fund swim scholarships, and expand life-saving resources across Brunswick County and beyond.

What to Expect

•Boat-Pulling Showdowns – Teams of six battling it out for glory and bragging rights

•Food Truck Frenzy – Local favorites serving up coastal bites and sweet treats

•Music & Family Fun – Fun, raffles, and activities for all ages

•Water Safety Spotlights – Learn how JHMF is making waves in our schools and communities

Whether you’re pulling, cheering, or just visiting the area, this event is a chance to rally together for a cause that saves lives.

“This isn’t just about winning a race, and having a fun day at the marina, it’s about saving lives.,” said Boat Pull Co-Chair Melanie Roberts.

Want to get involved? Visit jackhelbig. org or follow Jack’s Boat Pull FUNdraiser on facebook for updates and registration info.

Community Brunswick County Fair Animals, Games, Rides, Food and Music

STORY BY LOUISE SHEFFIELD-BACCARNY

Brunswick County is getting its own county fair, complete with all of the traditional food, games, rides, and animal exhibits a fair brings to town. Stump Hill Farms, a locals’ favorite spot for seasonal fun, began a fifth year on Sept. 20 and will be open 10 am to 6 pm on Saturdays through Oct. 25. Offering hayrides, gem mining, swings and slides, a jumping pillow and a pumpkin patch, this family farm is no stranger to a fun time! Adding to the fall lineup, the farm family is hosting the First Annual Brunswick County Agricultural Fair & Expo Oct. 15-19 on their property at 2030 Ash Little River Road.

A drive along our local streets, wait in line at the nearest post office, or numerous attempts to renew your driver’s license at the DMV will confirm the rapid growth and development in Brunswick County. People from the West, North and everywhere in between are moving East to the southernmost areas of North Carolina in record numbers, making Brunswick one of the fastest growing counties in the United States.

Despite the many changes to our county, the reminiscence of the rich history of local laborers and the culture of our community was what brought about the formation of the Brunswick County Fair Board and members’ collective hope of showcasing our great area in a commemorative way. Even with such a booming population and increase in newcomers, the county remains deeply rooted in farming and agriculture. Dialogue among the board members and nearby families who traveled hours away for 4H events in recent years, had the board reaching out to surrounding counties about how to begin a fair in our area. Interest in youth organizations such as 4H, FFA, Scouts and Trail Life, homesteading, gardening, crafting, hobby farming and environmental conservancy have also spiked in recent years, and the Fair board members are thrilled to have this venue offer not only rides and concessions but offer agricultural,

educational and individual exhibits.

Extended kindness and fair insight from Robeson County, the Cape Fear Fair & Expo Board that remains active, and the Mountain State Fair in particular, encouraged the Brunswick Fair Board to put their heads together and get to work creating this spectacular, nonprofit event.

Months of extensive research, discussion and planning have led to a five-day schedule, jam packed with something for everyone.

The fair will kick off on Wednesday, Oct. 15 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and will remain open from 4-11 pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. On Saturday the fair will be open from 10 am to 11 pm and Sunday 11 am to 6 pm. General admission is $7 per person paying with cash, $8 paying with a card, and parking is free.

Live music will begin nightly at 7 pm featuring Parker Lanier of Winnabow on Oct. 15, Phillip Page of Granite Falls on Oct. 16, Joe Coople & The Wild East Band of Wilmington on Oct. 17 and Hunter Varnum & Ethan Clewis of Varnamtown on Oct. 18.

Performances by Bob Bohm’s Family Entertainment and the Victoria Circus High Wire Pirate Show will also be included with general admission along with tunes by DJ Kelz Robbins of Leland.

The animal exhibit featuring cattle, swine, goats, sheep, horses, donkeys, poul-

teach county commissioners how to show cows, will also take place on Friday from 3-5 pm.

Brunswick County Fair is excited to offer a “Sensory-Friendly” event on Friday from 10:30 am to 1 pm. This time will provide a calmer, less stressful, fair experience. Admission during the “Sensory-Friendly” time is free for the child and their caregiver and a discounted price of $5 per person will be extended to the rest of their party. Local high school students from The Academy of Coastal Carolina will be in attendance to “buddy up” with participants and ensure an enjoyable time for all.

try, rabbits and ducks will be open for public viewing. The home exhibit will include field crops, horticultural crops, culinary, clothing, needlework, arts and crafts, and youth and vocational entries. Dreamland Amusements, serving the East Coast from Maine to Florida, will have approximately 25 rides ranging from kiddie and family favorites to spectacular new thrillers. Classic carnival games, prizes and concessions will be available alongside local vendors. Unlimited wristbands are $25, and tickets for amusements can be purchased at the Dreamland ticket booth.

Agricultural contests include a chicken show on Thursday at 6 pm, a goat show on Friday at 6:30 pm and a Dairy Heifer show on Saturday at 11 am. The county’s first ever Dairy Derby, where local 4H youth will

The Brunswick County Agricultural Fair would like to recognize and kindly thank the official fair sponsors, HEIL Heating & Cooling Dealership of Brunswick County and Capital Chevrolet of Shallotte. They would also like to thank the many stage sponsors, exhibit sponsors, ribbon sponsors, fair supporters, tv, radio and billboard advertising sponsors, fair friends and the Carolina Border Shields Retired Police for parking assistance.

So, jump in the car, crack the windows and follow the smell of funnel cakes and corn dogs as you wind down the back roads of Brunswick to the county’s first ever Agricultural Fair & Expo. October 15-19 will be an exciting time to relive childhood memories and make new ones with family and friends, and you may even experience a little “deja-moo”!

Please visit www.brunswickfair.com for the daily schedule, fair forms including rules and regulations, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities and contact information. Updates and information are also available on Brunswick Fair social media.

October Fishing Report

Autumn Is The Best Time Of Year To Be Fishing

BY CAPTAIN STEELE PARK

October is one of the very best months to fish our local waters— from the back creeks and inshore rivers to the blue waters of the Gulf Stream. If you’re new to the area, or haven’t yet experienced fishing here in the fall, now is the perfect time. Whether you launch your own boat or book a local charter during this slower season, don’t miss out—October offers some of the finest fishing of the year.

Adding to the excitement, Southport will again host the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament October 2–4, 2025. This legendary event draws anglers from across the region, all competing for big fish and even bigger prizes. The energy on the water—and around town—makes it one of the most thrilling weekends of the year to fish our coast.

Inshore

This month brings excellent action for speckled trout and red drum. Trout are best targeted in the main feeder creeks along the Cape Fear River and Intracoastal Waterway. Look for current rips and oyster rock structures, as these hold fish consistently. A popping cork rigged with live or artificial shrimp is highly effective, especially when worked with the tide. The docks along the Southport waterfront are also productive, where rocks beneath the pilings create ideal ambush points for feed-

ing trout.

For red drum, focus on creek mouths during moving tides. At high tide, watch for fish tailing in the grass flats—casting a jig with a paddle tail ahead of them is a proven tactic. As the fall mullet run tapers off midmonth, artificials will become the go-to bait for convenience and success.

Nearshore

Along the beaches, expect to find Spanish mackerel and bluefish feeding aggressively on migrating finger mullet. Trolling clarkspoons in 10–15 feet of water is a reliable method. Large schools of menhaden (pogies) are also moving down the coast, drawing in big bull red drum and king mackerel. Slow-trolling pogies near the beach, especially along tide lines, will produce king mackerel strikes. Productive

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 910-620-9919

spots include Yaupon Reef and just offshore of local piers.

For bull reds, rig a live pogie on a heavy Carolina rig and fish the bait schools near the bottom. Yaupon Reef and the Hot Hole are prime locations. Be sure to use stout tackle to reduce fight times and increase survival rates for these breeding fish.

Offshore

While many anglers concentrate on kings along the beach, October offers outstanding offshore opportunities as well. Areas such as Lighthouse Rocks, the Old Sea Buoy, Shark Hole, and Horseshoe are holding fish. In the 7–20 mile range, frozen cigar minnows often outperform live bait for king mackerel. Black sea bass are also pushing into shallower ledges and rock piles, with keeper-sized fish common in the 15–20 mile range near Shark Hole and Christina’s Ledge. For those venturing to 80–100 feet, expect steady action with triggerfish and vermilion snapper.

Gulf Stream

October is prime time for wahoo, blackfin tuna, and sailfish. From September through November, Gulf Stream fishing

off our coast is world-class. Troll ballyhoo on islanders or skirted rigs with wire leaders for wahoo—40–60 lb. fish are common, and 100-pounders are landed each season. Blackfin tuna are showing strong; cedar plugs or tuna feathers fished on fluorocarbon leaders are highly effective. Sailfish enthusiasts should focus on the color change where blue-green water shifts to deep blue. Dredges, squid chains, and small ballyhoo on circle hooks will draw strikes—though be ready for inevitable cutoffs from toothy predators.

October is, without question, one of the most exciting months to fish our coast. The variety and quality of opportunities are unmatched, whether you’re targeting trout in the creeks, bull reds nearshore, or wahoo offshore. Don’t miss your chance—get out there and experience it for yourself.

Tight lines, Captain Steele

October In October In Southport Southport

Captain Charlie’s

Children’s Fishing Tournament

Dinner with a Firefighter

Movies on the Lawn

Southport Historical Society 2 Tuesday Talk nd

Parks & Rec Spook or Treat

Classic Car and Truck Show

Howl-O-Ween Bowser Bash

SFD Trunk or Treat

Southport City Pier

Saturday, October 4

Caswell Beach Substation

SPT Fire Headquarters

Monday, October 6

Tuesday, October 7

Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn

Friday, October 10

Harper Library

Tuesday, October 14

209 N. Atlantic Ave.

Friday, October 24

Downtown Southport

Saturday, October 25

Fort Johnston Garrison Lawn

Saturday, October 25

Fire Headquarters

Friday, October 31

Keeping Fit

Fitness Isn’t Free Your Quality of Life Is Worth

BY VICTOR FERNANDES

Every Penny

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

My health and fitness services don’t come cheap..

Do you know why?

Because our health and well-being don’t come cheap either. It’s the most priceless commodity in our lives — yes, ahead of our families, our careers, and everything else we value in our lives.

It’s considered priceless, because it needs to be treated as priceless. Yet, “I can’t afford it” is the most popular excuse I get above all others from people who aren’t ready to do the work to take control of their health and well-being.

That excuse is rooted in fear, not financial records. Here’s how I know...

I used that excuse for many years. In reality, money was tight for our family 15 years ago, the time when I finally began the health and fitness journey I remain on to this day. We lived on a budget, paycheck to paycheck really, and we had just welcomed the newest member of our family, Zach, into the world.

Then a coach sat across a table from me at a fitness center in Erie, Pennsylvania, and challenged me to change my way of thinking, to finally realize that if I didn’t affect change in my life, life would make those decisions for me.

think that way when at such a wonderful time in life. But I weighed 250 pounds at the time, and given the choices I made, 300 pounds, 350, or more, wasn’t out of the realm of possibility.

At that rate, I wasn’t guaranteed to be around long enough to see the formative milestone moments in his life — his first steps, first day of school, high school graduation, college, career, marriage, family.

So, I found a way to make it work financially after years of doing anything but finding a way to change. I hired a coach. Whether I could truly afford it didn’t matter, because I needed a coach, and I needed to improve. Not simply for me, but for the people who matter most in my life.

Then I lost 75 pounds over the next 14 months, and that wasn’t the most pronounced change in my life.

joining the health and wellness industry in February 2019. A fair share of them didn’t and don’t have a lot of disposable income but have invested in themselves because they refuse to treat their health and well-being as disposable.

To this day, they know the reward — quality of life — far outweighs the financial risk. For me, that means doing at 60 what I’m doing now in my 50s without feeling like I’ve been hit by a bus. To you, it may mean something else.

Either way, it requires consistently hard work that excuses can’t handle for us.

“I can’t afford it” is an excuse, because when people want to achieve something bad enough, they find a way. So next time the thought, “I can’t afford it,” crosses your mind...ask yourself — “Can I afford not to?” — and then do the math.

Determine how much money you will spend hiring a coach to help you achieve the goals you’ve set for yourself that represent taking control of your health and well-being, and how much in your life, personally and professionally, you will risk losing if you choose to live and die by that excuse.

“Can you afford not to?” she asked me. Suddenly, I chose not to look at my health and well-being strictly by dollars and cents. Suddenly, I realized the alternative — continuing to see my health declining at the same time Zach was growing up.

It’s truly difficult to

I left a career in sports journalism after 26 years. I moved our family to the beach in Ocean City, Maryland, and now the Cape Fear region. I moved into the health and wellness industry and now operate my own business. I shudder to think where I would be right now if I hadn’t spent the money to hire my first coach.

Overweight and unhealthy, for sure.

Riddled with health problems, probably.

Dead, possibly.

I’ve worked with great people of all backgrounds and budgets since

Then make it happen, because investing in ourselves always pays off.

And of course, if you need help laying out the best plan of action for you to achieve your goals, I’m here to help because…

At Fernandes Fit, Fitness Is Our Business.

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.

Art Beat

Meet John Lowder Turning Wood Into Unique Artwork

STORY BY CARLA EDSTROM

After an extensive work history that includes naval architecture and marine engineering, then returning to college and becoming a physician with a 34-year private practice, NC native woodturner John Lowder has finally settled into retirement at the coast. His work is mesmerizing, geometric, award-winning art vessels and sculptures. Not your typical wooden salad bowls.

“I primarily consider myself a woodturner,” said John.  “Most of my art is produced on a wood lathe.  For those unfamiliar with a lathe, this machine spins wood, in my application, at a high rate of speed. The wood is shaped using a variety of very sharp cutting tools. Numerous gouges and scrapers of various configurations are the primary tools. These develop the final shape of the art form. My art ranges from bowls, vessels, and hollow forms.  These can be entirely wood, a combination of wood and resin, or wood with embellishments. I do a limited amount of flat woodworking, which doesn’t require a lathe.”

“The artist in me has been developing over the past eight years. My home was designed with a designated woodworking shop. Although I have acquired tools for most of my adult life, I had limited occasion to use them until retirement. Now I am fortunate to spend, on average, a couple of hours daily pursuing this hobby. I consider myself a “hobbyist” woodturner. I principally produce art that I find of interest. Most of the art I sell is items that are now replaced by new ideas. There has become a limit to the amount of personal art reasonably maintained at home.”

John’s understanding of form and function is evident in his work. Being mostly self-taught by watching videos, books, and DVDs, John has also significantly learned by trial and error. “I consider my specialty to be that of a segmented woodturner. This involves cutting hundreds of trapezoidal wood segments at precise dimensions and angles,” said John. “These are individually sanded and glued into rings of predetermined diameters. These rings are then glued in a stack with the desired rough profile of the vessel. This glue arrangement is mounted on the wood lathe

and then “turned” to its final shape and dimensions,” said John.

Although a small fraction of woodturners actively participate in segmented woodturning, John considers it his specialty. He explains that some people may be disillusioned by the math involved in the design process and the time required to complete a project. “I enjoy the math and geometry used in the design, which is relatively straightforward with some practice,” he said. “When I started with this form, my vessels were sketched on graph paper, and calculations were manually performed. This method is still used occasionally, but most calculations are now done with commercial computer programs and smartphone apps,” he said. “Segmenting offers unique design options in size, wood or wood combinations, and accents that would be unavailable using a single block of wood. Each item is unique. By the methods used to produce my art, even a duplicate from the same plan will be slightly different due to the procedures used in making the items,” he said. “A vessel of similar size could be turned from a block of wood in a fraction of the time of a segmented vessel. Much time is devoted to the design and construction of the lathe, and much less shaping is needed on the lathe. Most woodturners are drawn to the actual process of turning the wood,” he said.

His work has been shown in local galleries and many art shows. It’s exciting that he is now teaching woodturning, where he can share his excellent knowledge and skills. “I am fortunate to have been invited to join several talented woodturners and add segmented woodturning to the curriculum at BCC in the Southport Campus.  This is an opportunity to offer my

knowledge about this topic, interact with fellow woodturners, and learn through questions and techniques of others, which are slightly different due to the procedures used in making the items. It’s never too late to become a woodturner. If you’re new or interested in advancing your skills, basic and specialty courses are available at Brunswick Community College.”

His interest and fascination with the shape of antique pottery and vessels is where John finds his greatest inspiration for his projects. He also finds abundant ideas in magazines, journals, YouTube videos, and other woodturners’ work. “A piece of wood

will often ‘speak’ to you in the woodturning process. The color, grain pattern, and inclusions will often help dictate the final shape of an item. Every piece of wood is unique, and it often does reveal itself until it is cut or turned,” said John.

“I have participated in some of the sales events by the Artisans on Howe and their sales events, and recently, an Art-Full Home event. I am fortunate to have participated in local art events and have had award-winning art entries,” he said. If you are interested in John’s work or segmented woodturning, email him at mokshawoodturning@yahoo.com or call 540-336-0895.

Community Local History Events

Fall Fun At Brusnwick Town/Fort Anderson

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JEFFREY STITES

Two of our favorite events of the year are coming up soon at the Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson State Historic Site. First, you’ll have a chance to visit the colonial-era town of Port Brunswick and see how the folks who helped found our nation lived. Then you get to use Civil war-era technology to blow up your Halloween pumpkin. Yes, you get to blow it up. And yes, it is every bit as fun as it sounds.

Enjoy the day at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site on Saturday, Oct. 18 for the return of Port Brunswick Day! Beginning at 10 am, living historians will be interpreting various colonial trades and aspects of colonial life including candle making, blacksmithing, woodworking and more. Kids will have an opportunity to experience colonial toys and games.This event is free and all ages are welcome.

CALL FOR SPECIALS!

And when that jack-o-lantern on your front porch outlived his usefulness, come out on November 1 beginning at 11 am dispose of it in a unique and rather explosive way by implementing the same technology used to detonate Civil War era torpedoes! There is a $10 fee per pumpkin and BYOP (bring your own pumpkin).

It is free to watch, but YOU get to press the button to detonate if you bring your own! Pumpkins with minimal carving offer the best explosions, but all types are welcome. Tickets can be purchased online in advance beginning Oct. 4 at

America 250 Calling All Artists Crafting The American Story Art Show

STORY BY JEFFREY STITES

The City of Southport, in partnership with the Brunswick Arts Council, is excited to announce that the Fort Johnston–Southport Museum & Visitors’ Center is inviting local artists to apply for Crafting the American Story: Art, Identity, & History, an exhibition celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The exhibition will open Feb. 21, 2026, at theSouthport Community Building.

Open exclusively to artists 18 years old and older residing in Brunswick County, the exhibition will celebrate the ways art reflects and interprets American history. From painting and sculpture to handcrafts and other creative forms, artists are encouraged to submit works that engage with historical themes, cultural identity, and the resilience and vision that have shaped the nation over the past 250 years.

Applications are due by Nov. 1, 2025. Selected works will be announced Dec. 15, 2025, and the exhibition will run Feb. 21–28, 2026. Full details about the event can be found on the City of Southport website at www.cityofsouthport.com/crafting-the-american-story and the artist application form can be found at www.eventeny.com/events/ vendor/?id=35676.

An optional county-wide exhibition opportunity will extend select works beyond the Southport showcase. Chosen pieces may be displayed at partner locations across Brunswick County from March 7, 2026, through Feb. 20, 2027, offering artists increased visibility and engagement with diverse audiences.

The project is the brainchild of Southport’s Assistant Director of Community relations Jessie Labell. “This exhibition will celebrate the boundless creativity of Americans, both past and present, and explore how creativity serves not only as artistic expression but also as a powerful catalyst for change. We invite artists to engage with materials and processes that reflect the diverse and multifaceted nature of American creativity over the past 250 years — highlighting the resilience, adaptability, and vision that have shaped our collective journey, even in times of adversity.

“This exhibit seeks to uncover the vibrant manifestations of creativity in local contexts, highlighting the history, culture, and innovation of American ingenuity in Brunswick County. From graphic arts, sculpture and handcrafts, this exhibit will explore how creativity emerges both from adversity and joy and how diverse perspectives enrich our cultural fabric,” she said.

How does an art exhibit tie into America 250? Labell explained, “The creative arts and history are inseparable. Art is shaped by the events and

contexts of the past, and it can interpret history in ways that make the past feel immediate and personal, offering depth and emotion beyond what traditional exhibits can convey. Crafting the American Story: Art, Identity, & History seeks to uncover the vibrant manifestations of creativity in local contexts, emphasizing the history, culture, and innovation of American ingenuity in Brunswick County. From graphic arts and sculpture to handcrafts and beyond, artists are encouraged to explore how creativity has been shaped by history—born from moments of adversity, triumph, and cultural transformation. This exhibition seeks works that reflect historical events or themes, capturing the ways in which art serves as both a response to and a record of our nation’s past. Whether inspired by movements of resilience, expressions of identity, or the evolution of American culture, submissions should engage with history as both inspiration and catalyst for change.”

According to Labell, Artists should consider how their work can:

•Inspire public engagement by sparking dialogue and reflection on history

•Celebrate North Carolina’s rich heritage and its contributions to the American story

•Represent diverse perspectives, ensuring inclusivity and connec-

tion to identity

•Showcase the power of art as a storytelling medium, preserving narratives through visual expression

•Expand the definition of craft and artistic legacy, highlighting the significance of different forms of creative work

“Through this exhibition, we aim to create a space where history is not only remembered but actively interpreted through art—where past and present converge to inspire a future shaped by creativity and understanding. We welcome Brunswick County artists of all backgrounds to contribute their vision and voice to this collective exploration of American history,” Labell said.

About the Museum

The Fort Johnston–Southport Museum & Visitors’ Center, owned and operated by the City of Southport, is housed within the historic Garrison House, built in 1810 on the site of the original colonial fort. The museum offers rotating exhibits, Southport heritage displays, and serves as a welcoming hub for tourists exploring our local history and coastal charm.

About the Brunswick Arts Council

The Brunswick Arts Council works to support and promote the arts throughout Brunswick County, fostering opportunities for creativity, cultural expression, and community engagement.

History Healing The Nation

Brunswick Civil War Roundtable

STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

During his Second Inaugural Address on March 4, 1865, with a speech of only 701 words that was considered one of his greatest and most remembered, a re-elected President Abraham Lincoln wanted to unify a broken nation. With the end of the brutal four-year Civil War within sight, many on both sides felt anger and frustration toward their fellow Americans. Lincoln attempted to rise above the divisiveness and start the process of healing. Within that speech, the powerful phrase, “with malice toward none, with charity for all.” summarized the essence of Lincoln’s goal to heal.

Returning by popular demand for the Tuesday, Oct. 7 meeting of the Brunswick Civil War Round Table is retired Navy Capt. Edward W. Gantt. He believes Lincoln offered a hopeful national environment in that speech. However, Gantt turns Lincoln’s memorable phrase into a question because in his mind, it just wasn’t to be. According to him, much of that sentiment died after Lincoln’s assassination six weeks later.

At the beginning of 1865, African Americans had a sense of optimism, and probably justifiably so. They watched their fathers and sons return to areas in the southern states wearing the blue uniforms of Union soldiers. They had heard the stories of Union victories in the eastern theater. Even the 13th Amendment had been passed by Congress, promising that their emancipation would have a sense of permanence under the law. Something changed, however, and it changed dramatically. What happened to quell that sense of optimism, and how did it happen?

How did African Ameri-

cans go from sitting in the U.S. Congress to, in a few short years, having to step off the sidewalk if a white person approached? Gantt will convey some of the writings of the late 19th century and early 20th century to develop some understanding of this period of American history that still affects us today in so many ways. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Gantt graduated from Howard University and the National Defense University. He served 30 years in the military, first as a door gunner on a

Huey helicopter in Vietnam with the Army, then joining the Navy after completing his degree, eventually rising to Navy Captain. He served as a Naval Flight Officer in F-14 TOMCAT squadrons, both in the U.S. and aboard aircraft carriers.

After retiring from the military, he became a public high school teacher in Prince George’s County, MD, and Washington, D.C. Passionate about telling underrepresented stories, he joined the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, an African American Civil War reenactment group, and

also served with the 23rd USCT in Maryland. He is active with The African American in the Civil War Era Round Table, and serves as Vice Commander-in-Chief of the Military Order of the World Wars (MOWW). This meeting will be held at Hatch Auditorium on Caswell Beach. Registration begins at 6:15 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. The visitor fee remains at $10, and may be applied toward the $25 annual membership dues, which can include a spouse. Everyone is invited. Incidentally, about one-third of our audiences are female!

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 the group’s Facebook page.

Rosie O’Neal Greenhow

Confederate Spy Visits The Ladies’ Forum

STORY AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Willing to tell all, and say it like it is, Rose O’Neal Greenhow, a prominent Washington socialite, emerged as one of the Confederacy’s most valuable spies during the Civil War. First-person interpreter Emily Lapisardi, appearing in her period dress, will portray Rose at the Monday, Oct. 20 meeting of the Civil War Ladies’ Forum.

As a socialite during the period before the war, she moved in important political circles and cultivated friendships with presidents, generals, senators, and high-ranking military officers. Once the war began, her life was marked by daring espionage, influential social connections, and unwavering dedication to the Southern cause. Her most celebrated achievement came in July, 1861, when she smuggled coded messages to the Confederacy detailing Union Army movements, and was credited with contributing significantly to the Confederate victory at the First Battle of Bull Run. But there is more, like being jailed in Washington,

D.C. for espionage; being deported back to the Confederacy and resuming spying; traveling on diplomatic missions in Europe; and being a prolific author. Upon returning to this country, she drowned off the coast of Wilmington, North Carolina, weighed down by $2,000 worth of gold she had earned, which was sewn into her underthings. Best of all….she was honored with a Confederate military funeral. Rose was no ordinary lady!

Ms. Lapisardi will bring Rose vividly and realistically to life with her interpretive style, almost as if Rose was at the meeting. She has portrayed Rose at a range of venues including the International Spy Museum, Manassas National Battlefield Park, the Lomas Center in Gettysburg, PA, and the Petersburg National Battlefield Park. She is also the editor of “Rose Greenhow’s My Imprisonment: An Annotated Edition,” which debuted as the highest ranking new release in Amazon.com’s U.S. Civil War Women’s History category in the spring of 2021.

the personal dressmaker and confidante to First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln. Ms. Keckley’s life was quite remarkable yet rarely discussed in the annals of Civil War history.

The Civil War Ladies’ Forum (sponsored by the Brunswick Civil War Round Table) will be held in Murrow Hall at Trinity United Methodist Church, 209 E. Nash St., in Southport, across from the U.S. Post Office. The program will take place from 6 to 8 pm. Refresh-

The evening’s program will also include a special appearance by Musette Steck, a Southport historian and past President and longtime member of the Southport Historical Society; she still participates in two of the programs she helped establish— Living Voices of the Past and Tuesday Talks. Musette will talk about Elizabeth Keckley, an African American enslaved woman who became a renowned seamstress and

ments will be served. There is a modest $5 fee for guests. It is a free event to all women members of the Round Table. Sorry guys, gals only! For more information, or to make a reservation, please contact us at Brunswickcwrt@ gmail.com.

OFFICE SPACE

Beautiful office space for rent entering downtown Southport area. Up to 800 sq’, or smaller options, newly renovated and has file area, 2 large office, built in shelving, kitchen nook, restroom, reception/meeting area, private entrance. Includes internet, parking, utilities. Contact David 860.729.8276

HOMES/LAND FOR SALE

612-B W. BROWN STREET | 2 BED

| 2 BATH | $395,000 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.

MARKETPLACE

505 W. OAK ISLAND DRIVE | .10

AC | $235,000 Beautiful wooded lot on the quiet West end of Oak Island Dr. where lots are 60 ft. wide. Located within walking distance of the ocean. Ideal for folks wanting to build a dream home or a simple beach cottage. Close to the beach and access to the mainland at Middleton. Priced to sell!

Call Verilyn McKee, Southport Realty, Inc. for more information, (910) 470-0527.

3185 WEXFORD WAY. 3 BED

|2.5 BATH |

$554,000. This elegant home in the gated St. James Plantation community overlooks the Members Club Golf Course and features a stone and Hardiplank exterior. Inside, it boasts a vaulted Great Room with a fireplace, an open-concept kitchen with granite countertops and stainless appliances, and a main-level primary suite. Upstairs includes additional bedrooms and a large bonus room. Community amenities include golf, fitness centers, trails, pools, tennis, a beach club, and a marina, though many require club membership. Located near Historic Southport and Oak Island beaches, the home offers both comfort and coastal lifestyle. Call Myles Williams, Southport Realty Inc., for more information, (910) 457-7676!

4909 DREAMWEAVER COURT, UNIT 5. 3 BED | 2 BATH | $269,000. Just 3 miles from Oak Island Beach and 1.9 miles from the Cape Fear Jetport, this condo offers 1,386 sq ft of easy, one-level living in the SeaSpray Cove Villas community. With a bright, open layout, private patio, and the option to purchase fully furnished, it’s perfect as a weekend getaway, vacation home, or low-maintenance primary residence. Community amenities include a pool, crabbing dock, Boat/RV parking, and a private storage room. You’re minutes from the beach, boat launch, and historic downtown Southport—making this the ideal coastal retreat with convenience, comfort, and charm. Whether it’s your full-time home or weekend retreat, this condo makes coastal living simple & stress-free. Call Katherine Wooten, Southport Realty, Inc. (910) 620-8962, for more information.

4148 S. HARBOR CIRCLE, #1.3 BED | 2 BATH | $439,000. Looking for comfort, convenience, and coastal charm? This beautifully updated single-level townhome in Cambridge Crossings checks all the boxes! Features you’ll love: open floor plan, new LVP flooring, upgraded kitchen, enclosed Carolina room with mini-split, brick paver patio, renovated greatroom, and updated primary suite. Only 5 minutes to the beach, and right around the corner from South Harbour Village shops, marina, boat ramp, and restaurants! Neighborhood perks: pool, clubhouse, tennis & pickleball! Whether you’re ready to settle in full-time or just need the perfect weekend

escape, this home brings the best of easy coastal living. Call Sarah Smith, Southport Realty, Inc. (910) 443-8000, for more information.

1030 FILLMORE RD, SOUTHPORT. SERENITY MEETS LAKEFRONT LIVING. 3 BR | 2 BA | 1,585 SF. Located just minutes from the beach, 1030 Fillmore is nestled on an expanded lot and offers privacy and easy access to local attractions. This 1-level, 3-bedroom features a well-sized garage and spacious screened back porch! Schedule your tour today! Listed at $379,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Contact Elvira Gilbert at 910-619-4087 for details.

1063 TIDELINE DR., #49, LELAND. BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOME ON QUIET DRIVE. 3 BR | 2 BA | 1,388 SF. Tucked at the end of a quiet drive, 1063 Tideline is a charming all-brick end-unit townhome offering comfort, thoughtful design, wood flooring and more! Check out this listing and schedule your private showing! Listed at $335,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Brooke Rudd at 910-512-1361 for more information.

1304 E OAK ISLAND DR., OAK ISLAND. EXCITING UPDATES MINUTES FROM THE BEACH. 2 BR | 2 BA | Exciting updates make this home better than ever. Fall in love all over again with this Oak Island home. Recent updates include a newly added parking pad, firepit area, and redesigned interior fireplace! Don’t hesitate to contact us! Listed at $399,900 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Call Karen Wirzulis at 910-319-8592 for more information.

1000 CASWELL BEACH RD, #1303, OAK ISLAND. OCEANFRONT TOP FLOOR CONDO. 2 BR | 2 BA Wake up to breathtaking views in this lovely, updated and furnished 2-bedroom condominium in the Oak Island Beach Villas community. Listed at $549,000 with Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS®️. Reach out to Lynda Young at 919-452-2793 for details.

CALENDAR

Our Calendar is full of information from all of Brunswick County. We publish three magazines — Leland Magazine, Shallotte and South Brunswick Islands Magazine, and Southport Magazine. We love collecting details about all the of the fun events from all across our county and we think that everyone in the county, no matter which magazine they read, should be able to see all of the opportunities our community offers. We hope you’ll find something unexpected in this month’s Calendar and we really encourage you to hop in the car and go to something you’ve never experienced before.

October

OCT 1

Operation Medicine Cabinet - Dosher Memorial Hospital

Drop off expired and unused medication at this drive-through collection event at the hospital’s front entrance, 924 N. Howe St., Southport. Drop off medicines from 9 am to 1 pm.

OCT 2-4

U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament

The tournament starts Thursday with check-in; fishing is Friday and Saturday, and the awards ceremony starts at 8 pm on Saturday. Not fishing? You can still check out the tournament — there will be food trucks on site throughout and music Saturday night. Visit https://www. usopenkmt.com/schedule for schedule details. The tournament events take place at Dutchman Creek Park, 4750 Fish Factory Road.

OCT 3

30th Anniversary - Communities In Schools

Celebrate 30 years with CIS! Guests will enjoy a delicious dinner and dessert, music and dancing with The Beehive Blonds DJ group, and a fun photo bus experience. Beer, wine, and soft drinks will be available throughout the evening. The event will also feature a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and an inspiring look at the impact of Communities In Schools programs on local students. This event will help raise funds to continue CIS dropout prevention programming in nine local schools, serving over 600 Brunswick County students each school year. The celebration is 6-1 pm at the Southport Community Building, 223 East Bay St. Visit https://

secure.lglforms.com/form.../s/UAgcBMcrqya2CKAZnbgeeQ for more information and for tickets.

OCT 3

Leland a Hand in Leland

This community-side day of service brings together individuals and organizations to make a positive impact in the community. Projects will be completed from 8:30 am to noon at various locations; visit https://www.townofleland. com/lendahand to register for a project.

OCT 4-31

Grissettown Haunted Trail

Open every Friday and Saturday in October and Halloween Night from 711 pm. This professional-level scary trail takes about a half hour to complete. Tickets are $20 and proceeds benefit the Grissettown Fire Department. See our story in this issue for more!

OCT 4

Sunset on Sunset Festival

Enjoy a day of music, art, food and family-friendly fun at this end of season celebration at Sunset Beach Park, 200 Sunset Blvd N. The festival is 10 am to 4 pm and will include children’s activities and shuttle buses for transportation.

OCT 4

Leland a Hand in Leland

This community-side day of service brings together individuals and organizations to make a positive impact in the community. Projects will be completed from 8:30 am to noon at various locations; visit https://www.townofleland. com/lendahand to register for a project.

OCT 4

Captain Charlie’s Fishing Tournament — Southport

Kids have their own fishing tournament in Southport, at the City Pier, 178 E. Bay St. The tournament is 8:30 am to noon.

OCT 7

National Night Out - Leland

Get to know Leland’s law enforcement officers a little better, while enjoying treats from food trucks and browsing among vendors. The event is 5-8 pm at Northwest District Park, 1938 Andrew Jackson Highway (U.S. 74/76).

OCT 7

Brunswick Civil War Round Table

Retired Navy Capt. Edward W. Gantt will lead this session on President Abraham Lincoln and his attempt to rise above the divisiveness and start the process of healing. The program is at Hatch Auditorium, at Fort Caswell in Caswell Beach. Doors open at 6:15 pm, and the program starts at 7 pm.

OCT 9

Artist Reception — LCAC

View the works of artist Lourdes Rosas Rasdall at this gallery reception, 6-8 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

OCT 11

Back Door Kitchen Tour--Historic Downtown Wilmington

From 10 am to 4 pm, Residents of Old Wilmington is presenting their annual Back Door Kitchen Tour, which raises money that ROW uses to fund grants for local nonprofit organizations doing much-needed work to improve the quality of life in Wilmington.

During the Back Door Kitchen Tour, homeowners graciously open what’s called the heart of the home--the kitchen--as well as the first floor, to share the history, beauty, architecture, and southern charm that Wilmington is known for. This year’s tour will showcase eight stunning homes in the Historic District.

Tickets for the Back Door Kitchen Tour are $40 per person and can be purchased in advance at Eventbrite (https://www.eventbrite. com/e/2025-back-door-kitchen-tourtickets-1373784429209), where you can also get more information about the tour and view the homes being featured.

OCT 11

Touch a Truck — Shallotte Kids will be able to see, touch, explore, and even honk on garbage trucks, police cars, military vehicles, fire trucks and more. This free-family friendly event happens at the Riverwalk (158 Wall Street), from 10 am to 1 pm.

CALENDAR

OCT 11

Intercultural Festival — at LCAC

The Brunswick Arts Council hosts this annual festival, committed to celebrating cultural diversity in all its aspects, while honoring the cultural history of Brunswick County itself. This fun, cross cultural education event brings and presents a vast culturally enriching and entertaining experience for people of all ages. Festival-goers will have the opportunity to learn more about the different cultures that live side by side within our county. The festival is packed with numerous performing artists, children’s activities, cultural displays, ethnic food vendors and many more. In addition to displaying Brunswick County’s heritage, this year the International Village has new, exciting countries, displaying cultural information from the African Continent, South America, Asia, and Europe. Many countries and cultures will be represented. We will have the very popular activities for all ages “Passport to Culture” mostly geared to introduce kids about cultures from different countries. The festival is 11 am to 4 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland.

OCT 11

Focus Broadband Customer Appreciation Day

All FOCUS Broadband customers are invited to come out to the headquarters building, located at 640 Whiteville Road in Shallotte, from 11 am - 2 pm and enjoy a day of fun and prizes. Complimentary hot dogs and hamburgers will also be served.

Parking will be available in the company’s rear lot, accessible via Ruby Way, with designated handicap parking in the main lot.

OCT 14

Haunted Fishing Derby - Oak Island

Find your favorite costume and head out for some spooky fishing at the Oak Island Pier, 705 E. Oak Island Drive. Fishermen need to bring their own poles and bait, and the fishing is from 5:30-7 pm. The program is free, but registration is required.

OCT 15-19

First Annual Brunswick County Agricultural Fair & Expo

Head out to Stump Hill Farms, at 2030 Ash Little River Road, for five days of rides, games, food and all sorts of agricultural fun.

The fair will kick off on Wednesday, Oct. 15 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and will remain open from 4-11 pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. On Saturday the fair will be open from 10 am to 11 pm and Sunday 11 am to 6 pm. General admission is $7 per person paying with cash, $8 paying with a card, and parking is free.

OCT

18

Port Brunswick Day

Brunswick Town - Fort Anderson State Historic Site

Beginning at 10 am, living historians will be interpreting various colonial trades and aspects of colonial life including candle making, blacksmithing, woodworking and more. Kids will have an opportunity to experience colonial toys and games.This event is free and all ages are welcome.

OCT 18

Band, Brews & BBQ

The North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual event, which includes award-winning BBQ, local craft beers, music and a beautiful view at the Brunswick Riverwalk Park. The event includes a BBQ Cook-Off in which both professionals and amateurs compete – and which attendees get to enjoy. The festival is 11 am to 4 pm at the Park, 580 River Rd SE, Belville.

OCT

18

Living Voices of the Past — in Southport

The Southport Historical Society hosts this event, 2-4 pm at the Old Smithville Burying Grounds, 401 E. Moore St. The former Southport residents will come to life, thanks to Society volunteers who will portray them and share their stories. A $5 donation is suggested.

OCT

18

Rain Garden Workshop - Oak Island Members of the Oak Island Beautification Club will lead a program on the

benefits of rain gardens; participants will get hands-on experience by helping install a rain garden at the Arboretum Park, at the southeast corner of E. Oak Island Drive and Middleton Avenue. The program is 9-11 am at the park.

OCT 18

Fall Festival and Haunted Trail — Boiling Spring Lakes

This spooky festival is 5-8 at the Community Center, 1 Leeds Road. There is a costume contest, haunted trail, hot dogs and hamburgers for sale, candy, and even a fortune teller!

OCT 18-19

NC Oyster Festival

Saturday, 9 am - 6 pm, Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm at 11 E. 2nd Streety, Ocean Isle Beach. Free parking at Lowes Foods (7278 Beach Dr.) and Odell Williamson Municipal Airport (6080 Beach Dr. ). A free shuttle runs to the festival from both lots. The Ocean Isle Pier (1 W 1st St.) offers parking for a fee. Admission is $5/adult, children under 12 are free. Enjoy vendors, music, and OYSTERS at this annual must-do event.

OCT 20

Brunswick Civil War Round Table - Ladies Forum

Rose O’Neal Greenhow was a prominent Washington socialite who emerged as one of the Confederacy’s most valuable spies during the Civil War. First-person interpreter Emily Lapisardi, appearing in her period dress, will por-

tray Rose at this meeting of the Civil War Ladies’ Forum. The meeting is at Trinity United Methodist Church, 209 E. Nash St., in Southport, across from the U.S. Post Office. The program will take place from 6 to 8 pm. Refreshments will be served. There is a $5 fee for guests, but free for all women members of the Round Table.

OCT 21

Leland We Don’t Know

Explore Leland’s past, present, and future during this program. Get to know the area with this talk highlighting history and discussing some of the Town’s exciting plans for the future. The program is 9-10:30 am at LCAC, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, and registration is required.

OCT 24

Belville Riverwalk Trunk or Treat Monster Mash

Enjoy spooky tunes played by DJ Beetlejuice while Trunk or Treating. This family-friendly safe alternative to doorto-door trick or treating has something for every member of the family, including a costume contest, candy, food trucks and fall treats. The festival is 5-7 pm at Riverwalk Park, 580 River Rd SE, Belville.

OCT 24

Blood Drive — in Southport

Dosher Memorial Hospital is hosting a blood Drive at the Jaycee Building, 309 N. Fodale Ave. The blood drive is 8:30 am to 1:30 pm and donors are encouraged to sign up online at www. redcrossblodd.org.

OCT 24

Taste of the Vine

Hors d’Oeuvres paired with tasty wines, silent auction items and wine sales make for a fun evening with the Rotary Club of Shallotte. Tickets are $75; call Vince at 920-352-6562 or email vince.bacchi@gmail.com. The event is 5:30-7:30 pm at the Lockwood Folly Country Club, 19 Clubhouse Drive SW, Supply.

OCT 24

Spook or Treat — Southport

Take the kids to this safe trick-or-treat celebration just for them. Southport

hosts this event at 209 N. Atlantic Ave., from 5-6:30 pm.

OCT 25

Medication Disposal Event — Novant

Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center will hold a drive thru event with contactless drop off at 240 Hospital Drive, Bolivia from 10 am to 2 pm. All medications, syringes, e-cigarette and vaping devices with batteries removed are accepted; anyone can safely dispose of medications throughout the year at any of the medical center’s local permanent drop boxes at any time. A list of locations is available at fda.gov/drugs

OCT 25

Howl-o-Ween Bowser Bash — Southport

The pets take stage today with their costumes, with awards for the best dressed. The bash is 10 am to noon, and the $5 fee will benefit local animals in need. The event is on the Fort Johnston Garrison lawn, 203 E. Bay St.

OCT 25

Spooktacular — Oak Island

Take the whole family to Oak Island’s annual Halloween event at the Middleton Park fields, SE 46th Street and Dolphin Drive. The vendors market starts at 4 pm; live music and children’s activities, including a costume contest, games, and trick-or-treating, start at 6 pm, and the festival wraps up at 8 pm.

OCT 25

Fall Festival — Leland

Children can safely trick-or-treat among decorated booths at Northwest District Park, 1937 Andrew Jackson Hwy, from 4-7 pm. The event also includes games and interactive activities.

OCT 25

Classic Car and Truck Show — Southport

Check out cars and drugs from many decades at this classic car show, 8:30 am to 3 pm in downtown Southport (bottom of Howe Street/Bay Street). There will be music from the Back Porch Rockers and DJ Dave, and there will also be a 50/50. The Cape Fear Cruisers use proceeds from the show to support local charities.

OCT 28

Spooktacular — Shallotte

Celebrate Halloween at this family event, starting at 6 am at Riverwalk Park, 158 Wall St.

OCT 29

Trunk-or-Treat Trail — Sunset Beach

Enjoy spooky fun at Sunset Beach’s Halloween celebration, 5-6:30 pm at Sunset Beach Park, 206 Sunset Blvd. North.

OCT 30

Brunswick County Fall Festival

Enjoy free hot dogs and candy at this family-friendly fall celebration! There will also be games, a costume contest, hay rides, and a haunted trail. The festival is 6-9 pm at the Government Complex in Bolivia.

OCT 31

Trunk-or-Treat — Ocean Isle Beach

Ocean Isle Beach wraps up the Halloween celebrations with its annual trunk-or-treat, 5-6:30 pm at Town Center Park, 11 E. Second St.

OCT 31

Trunk-or-Treat — Southport Fire Department

NOV 1

Tree Giveaway — Leland

Trees are available for free on a first come, first-served basis, 9 am to noon at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

NOV

1

Open House at LCAC

Learn more about the programs and classes offered at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, and meet some of the instructors. The open house is 10 am to 1 pm at the Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

NOV

1

National Weather Service Station Tour

Tour the National Weather Service’s station in Wilmington, and learn more about the equipment and the people behind our weather forecasting. Tours are 9:30-11 am and 11:30 am to 1 pm; register through the Town of Leland.

Kids can collect treats at this event hosted by the Southport Fire Department, 1011 N. Howe St. The festivities are 6-8 pm.

OCT 31

Trunk-or-Treat

Kids can wear their costumes and collect treats, 5:30-7 pm at the Community Center, 1 Leeds Road. A $2 donation is requested.

NOV 1

Great Pumpkin Blowout

Brunwick Town-Fort Anderson State Historic Site

Beginning at 11 am, dispose of your Halloween pumpkin in a unique and rather explosive way by implementing the same technology used to detonate Civil War era torpedoes! There is a $10 fee per pumpkin and BYOP (bring your own pumpkin). It is free to watch, but YOU get to press the button to detonate if you bring your own! Pumpkins with minimal carving offer the best explosions, but all types are welcome. Tickets can be purchased online in advance beginning Oct. 4 at https:// historicsites.nc.gov/news/events/ great-pumpkin-blowout.

NOV

1

Southport Wooden Boat Show

Come see the wooden boats on land and in the water in Historic Downtown Southport along with a variety of craft vendors. 10 am - 4 pm along W. Moore Street and the Old Yacht Basin.

NOV 1

Jack’s Boat Pull

Come cheer your favorite team as they attempt to be the fastest to pull a boat and truclk across the finish line. All proceeeds go to the JAck Helbig Foundation’s drowning prevention programs. Beginning at 12 pm at the Morningstar Marina, 606 W. West Street, Southport

NOV 6

Gallery Reception — Art League of Leland

Artists are exploring the color green for this reception, 6-8 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.

NOV 7

Holiday Boutique — St. James

The Artisans Association hosts this market, just in time for some holiday shopping, featuring art, glass, crafts, baskets, fabric arts, jewelry, woodworking and more. The market is 10 am to 4 pm at the Homer E. Wright Event Cen-

CALENDAR

ter (St. James) at 4136 Southport-Supply Rd SE.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Oak Island Live & Local Middleton Park Fields, Dolphin Drive and SE 46th Street (6:30-8:30 pm)

Oct 4 — the Live and Local fall series kicks off with food and craft vendors starting at 4 pm, and music from The Back Porch Rockers starting at 6 pm.

Oct 11 — The Doorsmen

Oct 18 — Chocolate Chip & Co.

Oct 25 — The Cruise Brothers (also the Spooktacular festival)

Movies on the Lawn - Southport

Garrison Lawn, starting at 7:20 pm/ dusk

203 E. Bay Street

Oct 10 — “Beetlejuice”

Odell WIlliamson Auditorium at Brunswick Community College 150 College Road NE, Bolivia

Oct 11 — Don Jovi (Bon Jovi tribute band)

Oct 24 — Taylor’s Thread (James Taylor tribute band)

Oct 26 — The U.S. Army Field Band

Nov 1 — ABBA-Mania

Nov 15 — Sail On (Beach Boys tribute band)

Visit https://bccowa.com/ for tickets.

Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

701 N. Third St., Wilmington

Oct 2 — Anjelah Johnson-Reyes

Oct 9 — The North Carolina Symphony presents All Beethoven

Oct 11 — The Voice of Whitney

Oct 14 — Ami Bruni

Oct 16 — Here Come the Mummies, an eight-piece funk band of 5,000-yeaold Egyptian mummies

Oct 17 — Dusty Slay

Oct 21 — Twilight in Concert

Oct 25-26 — City Ballet presents Alice in Wonderland and the Picture of Dorian Gray

Nov 1 — Dvorak & Colberg from the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra

Nov 8 — Il Divo

Nov 12 — The Life & Music of George Michael

Visit https://wilsoncentertickets.com for more information.

Thalian Hall

310 Chestnut St., Wilmington

Sept 26 - Oct 5 — The Thalian Association Community Theater presents “The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Oct 1 — Mohamed Abozekry

Oct 2-5 — Red: A Bioplay about Artist Mark Rothko

Oct 9 — Horror Circus

Oct 11 — Gunhild Carling

Oct 16-26 — Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, from Big Dawg Productions

Oct 17-19 — The Thalian Association Community Theatre presents “Home”

Oct 20 — Haunted Illusions

Oct 23 — Chanticleer

Oct 28 — Ailey II

Oct 31 — Carmen Carpenter

Nov 2 — Jamie deRoy & Friends

Check https://www.thalianhall.org/ calendar for more information.

Greenfield lake Amphitheater

1941 Amphitheater Drive, Wilmington

Oct 2 — JJ Grey and Mofro

Oct 3 — Pigeons Playing Ping Pong

Oct 5 — The 502s - Easy Street Tour

Oct 10 — Blackberry Smoke

Oct 11 — American Aquarium

Oct 12 — Phantogram

Oct 16 — Big Gigantic

Oct 17 — Gov’t Mule

Oct 18 — Old School Hip Hop Vs R&B Juelz Santana Performing Live

Oct 24 — Paul Cauthen

Nov 6 — The Revivalists

Nov 12 — The Elovaters

Nov 15 — Kicking Cancer County Style Benefit Concert featuring Cody Webb

Visit greenfieldlakeamphitear.com for more information.

Live Oak Bank Pavilion

10 Cowan St., Wilmington

Oct 3 — Gavin Adcock

Oct 12 — Lukas Nelson - The American Romance Tour with Stephen Wilson Jr.

Oct 22 — Tedeschi Trucks Band with special guest Little Feat

Oct 29 — John Legend

OPEN AIR MARKETS

Belville Riverwalk Farmers Market

Riverwalk Park, 580 River Road, Belville

Shop for produce, ice cream, and fresh seafood, seasonings and all things related to seafood, with the beautiful backdrop of the Brunswick River. Hours are Fridays 10 am to 6 pm; and Sundays 11 am to 3 pm, except ice cream is available every day.

4th Friday Art Market Shop among 30-plus vendors, eat,

dance and enjoy spending time with friends and neighbors at this monthly market next to Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar (1175 Turlington Avenue, in Brunswick Forest). The market is open from 4-8 pm.!

ONGOING EVENTS

Friends of the Library Southport & Oak Island

The Libraries are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 6 pm; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am - 6 pm; and Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm. 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. Donations accepted Tuesdays and Saturdays 10 am - noon.Visit https://folsoi.org/blog/ for information on summer youth 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. The Southport Historical Society leads a session with Henry Livingston, who will discuss “The Southport Family Tree” for the Second Tuesday Talk, Oct. 14 at 10 am. One-on-one tech support is offered on Thursdays, 1-3 pm.

NC Maritime Museums - Southport

204 E. Moore St.

Hours are 10 am to 4 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays. Sensory Saturdays (low light and quiet time in the museum) are the first Saturday of the month, 10 am to noon. Visit www.ncmaritimemuseum.com to register for special programs.

Historic Bike Tours in Southport

Tour historic Southport on bike with the Adventure Kayak Company, Inc. Tours can be for parties of four or more. Call 910-454-0607 or visit www.theadventurecompany.net.

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 the Paintbrush Academy. There are book clubs, kayak tours in the Davis Canal, surf fishing lessons, and much more. Visit https://parksrec.egov. basgov.com/oakislandnc for details on programs.

Franklin Square Art Gallery

The Gallery is open 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday and can be found at 130 E. West St., next to Franklin Square Park. Works in the 2025 Maritime Art Show will be on display Oct. 27 through Nov. 15..

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 the Intracoastal Realty Downtown Southport Office. Stroll along and browse in the shops to see what local artists have to offer.

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). Progressive Jackpot and winner take all coverall.

Battleship North Carolina — near Leland

Tour the USS NORTH CAROLINA and participate in group programs and special programming throughout the year. Battleship 101 is Oct. 11, when visitors can explore spaces that are normally closed. 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 informa-

tion 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 Mondays through Fridays, 10 am to 4 pm (until 7 pm Tuesday and Thursday) and Sundays from noon until 4 pm. Sandbar lectures are every Tuesday at 6 pm. Snakes Alive is on Thursdays at 6 pm. The touch tank is open Mondays, Wednesday, and Fridays, 11 am to noon..

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

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.

4th Friday Art Market

Shop among 30-plus vendors, eat, dance and enjoy spending time with friends and neighbors at this monthly market next to Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar (1175 Turlington Avenue, in Brunswick Forest). The market is open from 4-8 pm.

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.

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.

Art League of Leland (ALL) at the Leland Cultural Arts Center

The group welcomes artists of all kinds and meets monthly (except in summer months) 4-6 pm at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way.