— Milestones —
Outlook 2026-27 – The Coastland Times
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4 • Outlook 2026
CONTENTS
Outlook 2026 Edition from The Coastland Times
Theresa Schneider Publisher
Danielle Puleo Mary Helen Goodloe-Murphy
Summer Stevens Staff Writers
Daryl Law Correspondent
Hannah Russ
Tortugas' Lie .....................................................................................................................6 Jennette's Pier ..............................................................................................................10 Shag Club .......................................................................................................................16 Student Plane ...............................................................................................................24 Dare A250 Faire ............................................................................................................30 The Elizabethan Gardens ..........................................................................................38 Curituck BBQ .................................................................................................................46 Miss Lizzie's ....................................................................................................................50 Brew Thru .......................................................................................................................52
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6 • Outlook 2026
Tortugas’ Lie Beach Road Bar & Grille serves up some of the best eats in town. Grab a cold one, feel the Caribbean vibe and soak in surf culture. Daryl Law photo
Tortugas’ Lie: Serving up island vibes for 35 years By Daryl Law Correspondent ortugas' Lie Beach Road Bar & Grille remains the quintessential hangout spot in Nags Head. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion with family or straight off the beach still wearing board shorts, you’re welcome at this vibrant locale. With its Caribbean vibes, excellent service and delicious foods, they've got you covered day and night. At the helm for the past 35 years are business partners Richard Welch and Bob Sanders. They're a couple of friendly, ocean-loving entrepreneurs who also play guitar and appear to relish life on these slender barrier islands.
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These astute business owners say their formula is simple – serve fresh, light seafood dishes along with hearty burgers and steaks, some flavored with jerk seasoning. There’s also a full raw bar menu complete with steamed vegetables. There's always a fresh salad with salmon on the menu or a tuna sandwich with a Caribbean-inspired topping with lettuce and tomato. Black beans and rice make this a solid meal that sticks with you. Central to keeping people coming back for more are the varieties of dinner specials that follow each season. Soft shell dinners or sandwiches in spring, lump meat crab cakes in summer and oysters fried or steamed during the fall.
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Fresh tuna is served year-round and they know how to cook it just right – pink and juicy in the middle. Sanders is a pescetarian. He also influences what veggies are served. Their Island Fries are top shelf. Welch said they use straight, 3/8-inch cut potatoes, deep fried and topped with kosher salt and fresh black pepper. "Crispy is key, they are served immediately," Welch said. "I think that makes a huge difference. There's not a single warming lamp in the kitchen.” Consistency is paramount to their food preparation and strong leadership helps make that work. "Managing the people you have," Welch
Outlook 2026 • 7 said, "you have them carry out your visions." They also take pride in serving top notch meals that appeal to a wide variety of patrons. "Dinner and beer for less than $15? Bob said. "That's a surfer's paradise there! Surfers still come in with bare feet and wetsuits." Welch and Sanders have made several changes recently to this small but dynamic business. A second dining area – the side porch – was opened a few years ago and now there are also tables out back with a tiki bar. A grassy lawn was added, too, for families to enjoy. It's partly covered by colorful sails overhead used as sun blockers. The volleyball courts have been pushed more to the back of the lot and are in top form. Welch loves to play and they host volleyball events. Back in 2012, colorful reality television foodie Guy Fieri, center, visited Tortuga's Lie in Nags Head to film an episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, which aired in 2013. He’s pictured with the restaurant owners Richard Welch, left and Bob Sanders. Welch admitted it was a little nerve racking working in the kitchen during filming. Courtesy Tortugas’ Lie
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8 • Outlook 2026
The guys are also in the process of handing over the reins of day-to-day operations to their children. The new general managers are their sons David Welch and Devin Sanders. They each have a daughter working there, too. Natalie Welch "does everything up front," Richard said, while Bryce manages the wait staff. The servers and bartenders all wear Tortugas' Lie T-shirts, which are available to purchase out of a small retail area. They have tie-dye, camouflage and pastel colors with an assortment of graphics. One graphic with a turtle carrying a surfboard overhead was memorialized when it was featured on an episode of Outer Banks, a show that makes Dare County folks say, "what kooks." They sold out quickly and ordered more immediately, reported longtime hostess Pam Vandyke. In general, Vandyke said the stream of arriving customers never slows down … “it just goes and goes and goes.” Another 15 minutes of fame for Tortugas' came when Guy Fieri cruised in to eat and record an episode of his show Diners, Driveins and Dives back in 2012. "It was great – you couldn't put a price on that type of advertising it afforded us," Richard said. "His family was here too, we met them.” "They came back and ate a few times," Bob added. Their crew hung out, played volleyball and drank beer – overall it was a fantastic experience, Richard and Bob said. They’re also feed some additional bigname stars – Jimmy Buffett, Paul Newman and Ed O’Neill. A “bunch” of the Redskins (now Commanders) football players have been there, too, including Russ Grimm who they played basketball with behind the restaurant.
Hostess and retail associate Hattie Frieman lists the daily specials on the board near the front door of Tortugas’ Lie Beach Road Bar & Grille. These typically include healthy salads topped with salmon, fresh tuna sandwiches and more. Daryl Law photo
No visit is complete to Tortugas’ Lie without at least tasting their fresh, hot, crispy Island Fries. Other super sides? Their black beans and rice or tortilla chips with fresh-made salsa. Daryl Law photo
Last winter, they took care of their yearround customers by offering Burger Night on Tuesdays with half priced burgers. "It was a big hit," Bob said. "Very popular,” Richard added. "We have a strong local following.
To r t u g a' s L i e
Hostess Pam Vandyke holds one of Tortugas’ favorite T-shirts. It went worldwide when it was featured on the show Outer Banks. It sold out immediately. "Our retail has been amazing," co-owner Richard Welch said. Daryl Law photo
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A view of the new planks on the main ramp at Jennette’s Pier. All the wood decking out on the 1,000-foot-long fishing pier was also replaced this spring. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
Jennette’s Pier completes important improvements By Jennette’s Staff ttendence is soaring this summer season at the North Carolina Aquariums as they reach the midway point of their yearlong 50th anniversary celebration – 1976 to 2026. The Ft. Fisher Aquarium is temporarily closed, however, as they ramp up for a major renovation. At Jennette’s Pier, the fourth facility in the Aquariums Division, there’s plenty to be excited about. The staff celebrated the pier’s 15th anniversary on May 21, exactly 15 years since its “rebirth” in 2011. The modern version of the pier has welcomed millions of visitors for fishing, sight-seeing, educational activities, wedding receptions and more. In general, Jennette’s
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On ocean-going dredge ship motors past the end of Jennette’s Pier in June. The Town of Nags Head recently engaged in its third beach nourishment project since Jennette’s Pier’s rebirth in 2011. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
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Outlook 2026 • 11 remains a community hub, just as it did when it first opened in 1939. By far the biggest news this summer is the completion of the deck re-planking project. The 30,000 linear feet of sand-colored fiber-reinforced polymer planks are rigid and built to last in the marine environment for decades. Improvements were also made to the bathhouse deck and ramps. For people with limited mobility, the new ramp is paired with a long roll-out walkway mat to the beach. Another successful past project, wildlife friendly lighting, has inspired our neighboring fishing piers, Nags Head and Outer Banks, to replace their lights with amber ones too. These pending projects were made possible by grants from our partners at the Network for Endangered Sea Turtles or simply N.E.S.T. During your next visit to Jennette’s Pier
Beach goers with limited mobility are welcome to use this blue roll-out walkway to the beach. It’s connected to a ramp from the parking lot on the south side of the bath house. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
or anywhere else in Nags Head, check out how wide the beach strand has grown this season as the sand renourishment project
continues to move full steam ahead. In an important effort to keep nesting turtles safe during the beach widening
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Abby Carey, center, and niece Keri Smith have fun in the Family Fishing program at Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head where they’re celebrating its 15-year anniversary. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
The final plank goes into place at Jennette's Pier where a total re-planking project was completed this spring by Chapman Construction out of Louisburg. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
Jennette' s Pier
project, observers keep a constant watch on the shoreline to make sure the sea turtles can return to lay their eggs on our sandy shores. A Brief History of Jennette’s Pier The original 740-foot-long pier, the first in the Outer Banks, was constructed in 1939 by the Jennette family. Patriarch Warren H. Jennette was partly inspired to build the pier after witnessing anglers fishing from atop a shipwreck in nearby Kill Devil Hills at milepost 7. Nowadays, the area known as the Triangle Wrecks is a popular dive spot, but back in the 1930s, people were able to reach the wrecks by rowboat to catch large fish from portions that remained above water. The first pier was built quickly without treated pilings, making it vulnerable to ship worm and storms. Over the decades, hurricanes and northeasters battered the wood structure, and it was damaged and rebuilt numerous times. Eventually, in 2002, the oceanfront property was listed for sale. Concern spread throughout the Outer Banks that the property might be developed and the community might lose direct access to the recreational fishery and the public beach. At this point, several forward-thinking community leaders stepped up and, partnering with Nags Head and Dare County, helped the North Carolina Aquarium Society, a non-profit support group for the state Aquariums, secure a grant to purchase the property and save the pier. Reopened as a marine education center in 2003, the pier was severely damaged once again in Hurricane Isabel, leaving only a “nub.” Not giving up on the dream, community leaders worked with the NC Aquariums, the NC Aquarium Society and the NC General Assembly to secure funding for the construction of the modern-day pier that opened May 21, 2011. Be sure to swing by to check things out
The amber-colored wildlife-friendly lighting at Jennette’s Pier has set a trend among the other ocean fishing piers, which have also opted to adopt this style of lighting. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
this season at Jennette’s Pier where Fishin’ is Catchin.’ About Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head. The pier is located on the oceanfront at 7223 S. Virginia Dare Trail, The Beach Road, MP 16.5, Nags Head Known as “the
Sept 11-12, 2026
place to be” in Nags Head during the summer season, Jennette’s Pier offers anglers a wide variety of fish to target year-round while sightseers can watch brown pelicans overhead and bottlenose dolphins swimming in the sea.
Oct 10, 2026
Nov 6-8, 2026
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14 • Outlook 2026
Anglers pose with their large red drum catch, which are also known as channel bass. These days, the large ones are released because they are of age to breed. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
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Two gentleman work behind the counter of the store in old pier house, which sold snacks, drinks, lures and rod with reel combinations. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
The Pier is part of the N.C. Aquariums Division under the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information, visit www.jennettespier.net or call (252) 2551501.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history and spectacular natural areas. At more than 100 sites across the state, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency. For more information, visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
Outlook 2026 • 15
A well-dressed angler and companion pose for a photo in front of a large catch of jumbo bluefish back in the early days of Jennette’s Pier. Courtesy Jennette’s Pier
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16 • Outlook 2026
Several dozen dancers attended a recent gathering of fellow shag dancers at the Jolly Roger in Kill Devil Hills. Daryl Law photo
‘We love beach music!’ Outer Banks Shag Club dances into next chapter By Daryl Law Correspondent or 30 years, the Outer Banks Shag Club has brought people together for dancing, friendship and community. Currently, they dance on Thursday nights at Jolly Roger in Kill Devil Hills. A good crowd showed up for a recent event, which started at 5:30 p.m. All of the couples were enjoying themselves and having fun. Front and center were Helen and John Bryant, who own a cottage on the beach but are from Virginia, where they’re members of the Franklin Shag Club. They love shag dancing. “It’s fun!” Helen said in between dances, and the “camaraderie – it’s also good exer-
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cise. “We like hanging out with people our age,” Helen noted. “We love beach music!” After three decades, the Outer Banks Shag Club embarked on a new course that included giving a $20,500 donation to the Outer Banks Relief Foundation (OBCF), reports club president Michael Guida. The organization formally concluded its incorporation in order to simplify. While the club is ending its official business status, this is not a goodbye. This new chapter brings opportunities. Wearing a patriotic American flag print shirt, disc jockey George Dean of Chesapeake, Va. was spinning the tunes for The Outer Banks Shag Club recently. Daryl Law photo
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“The club donated the cash that remains in its bank account to the foundation so that their funds can lift up people in the community,” said Patty McKenna, the foundation’s executive director. “Donating the entire remaining treasury to them is a fitting way to honor the legacy of shag dancing on the Outer Banks,” she said, “it makes an impact on the Outer Banks continue for years to come.” Their generosity is a powerful reminder that caring for one another is one of the greatest traditions we can pass on, McKenna said. During its long history, the Outer Banks Shag Club has met at various places around town, reports Guida. During the Thursday evening sessions, dancers enjoy shag dancing, line dancing and fellowship as an informal community club, he added. McKenna said the idea is simple. “Club members meet weekly to do a dance they love and have fun together,” she said. “The Carolina Shag is a smooth, relaxed six-count swing dance born along the Atlantic coast of the Carolinas in the 1940s.” When shag dancers from other southern coastal communities come here for a visit, they visit the Outer Banks Shag Club at their weekly event, McKenna noted. As mentioned, at the recent featured event, it was members from the Franklin Shag Club. For many years, Outer Banks Shag Club’s annual New Year's
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18 • Outlook 2026
Patty McKenna, Outer Banks Relief Foundation executive director accepts a donation from Michael Guida, former president of the OBX Shag Club along with members of the Relief Foundation board. Also pictured, from left are Elizabeth, Hoffmier, Evelyn Talbott, Seay Hoffmier, McKenna, Guida and Rosemarie Doshier, Gail Mee and Matt Winstead. Melissa Cox photo
LEFT: Club President Michael Guida. | RIGHT: Connie Corbett of Franklin, Va. says hello to “Elvis,” a statue near the dance floor at the Jolly Roger. “We saw Elvis in Hampton (Va.) Coliseum, it’s been years ago, in 1965. Daryl Law photo
Outer Banks Shag Club
Outlook 2026 • 19 Eve Gala was a “hot ticket” for dancers from Virginia to South Carolina, Guida said. “Now we’re at Jolly Roger to keep dancing alive,” he said. “[Restaurant owner] Carole Ann [Angelos] enjoys shag dancing and loves having us there, so we transferred two years ago.” For the dance nights, they hire a disc jockey to come out and play the music. On a recent shag dancing night, it was George Dean of Chesapeake, Va. “I’m the back up,” he jested. Typically, they use disc jockey Taylor of Camden. "I am a passionate member of the Association of Beach and Shag Club DJs with 16 years of experience,” he said. Taylor plays tunes with a steady tempo that you can shag to such as "I Love Beach Music" by The Embers and "Carolina Girls" by Chairmen of the Board. The Bryants summed everything up with ease. “We love beach music!”
LaDonna Finch and husband Michael Guida love shag dancing. Daryl Law photo
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Outer Banks Shag Club history
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he purpose of the Outer Banks Shag Club is to promote and preserve the heritage of beach music and shag dancing; educate and teach others the art of shag dancing; provide its members and guests with dance opportunities; inform its members of beach music and shag dancing activities; and support charities designated by the Board of Directors and/or club members.
HISTORY In 1989, David Ballance of Manteo advertised an invitation in an Outer Banks newspaper, urging people interested in shag dancing to meet at Fast Eddie's at the Marketplace in Southern Shores. Twenty people came to that meeting, and in May 1990 the Outer Banks Shag Club was officially formed. There were 15 charter members. Two years, later the Club moved its weekly dances to the Sea Ranch Resort in Kill Devil Hills. The Club stayed there for nearly six years, and during that time the membership rose to over 100 members. The Club's next move was to Madeline's at the Holiday Inn on the beach road. During that stay of about six years, the membership reached 240. In 2005, the Club moved to Peppercorns at the Ramada Plaza Nags Head where we enjoyed a six-year run. In 2011, we moved to Kelly’s Restaurant and Tavern, where we met until the end of January, 2017. We currently meet at the Jolly Roger Restaurant in Kill Devil Hills, NC on Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Music is provided by our own DJs, creating a great beach atmosphere for fellowship and shag
dancing. These socials are open to all who enjoy "the dance." For much of our history, we were fortunate to have Jack Bohne as our president. He remained president until 2011, when he resigned the club because of health reasons. Jack Bohne was also the Club’s DJ, along with David Jones. David would tape Charlie Byrd's Beach Blast program from the radio and provide selections from those tapes for the weekly dance music. His knowledge of shag music is quite remarkable. David received numerous invitations to perform as a DJ for groups all along the east coast. His abilities, expertise, professionalism and charm earned him the prestigious National Shag Icon designation in 2007. Sharon Jones, David’s wife, performed many roles. She was the Club's special events planner, social organizer, membership chair, newsletter editor in chief, club treasurer and unofficial "first lady" for many years. She has been seated on state and national shag boards and committees and, with David, taught shag and line dancing to hundreds of people here on the Outer Banks and as invited instructors up and down the east coast. It is likely that Sharon has never met a person she didn't like. Sharon's dancing and teaching abilities, her dedication to the Club and to shag, her support of local charities and her winning smile earned her the honor of National Shag Icon in 2001. Today, many affectionately think of David and Sharon Jones as the King and Queen of OBX Shag. They shared their talents, their time, and their lives with us, all with such class! After having served as vice president for several years, Jack Myers was elected
president in 2011. He and his wife Sally, who served as social chair and unofficial first lady, were instrumental in taking the club to a new location, Kelly’s Restaurant and Tavern, and continued the traditions and leadership of the Joneses. Sally is a skillful organizer and was instrumental in leading the Event Committee. Through Jack and Sally’s leadership, our members enjoyed many successful social events including Pig Roasts, Fish Frys, and the annual New Year’s Eve Gala. Their dedication and leadership resulted in the club’ raising over $10,000 for local charities over the years at our annual Harvest Benefit Dances. Jack’s eye for detail brought many benefits. Through his efforts, the bylaws were updated, and standing committees were formed for the first time. He was persistent and meticulous in working with the IRS to obtain official nonprofit status for the Club. After serving as president from 2011 through 2015, Jack decided it was time to hand over the reins. Bill Broaddus was elected president in January 2016. While president, Bill and his lovely wife Sue were instrumental in creating “Event Guides” so that written documentation was available to assist in planning and hosting club activities. Sue acted as his behind the scenes first lady, handling many club activities and coordinating events. When Kelly’s made the decision to close, Bill worked closely with Don and Carol Davis to sponsor our new venue, the Duck Woods Country Club. Additionally, Bill, along with others, planned and hosted the 25th annual New Year's Gala, a traditional three day event that is attended by 180 shaggers from multiple clubs. Bill carried the reins moving the Club forward in the community until
Outlook 2026 • 21
Bobby and June Duck, members of the Franklin (Va.) Shag Club, share a laugh while dancing at the Jolly Roger. Daryl Law photo
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22 • Outlook 2026
Members of the Outer Banks Shag Club at the Holiday Inn in Kill Devil Hills, 1990. The Outer Banks History Center, Manteo, NC
Vickie Holland leads line dance at Comfort Inn, 1992 Drew Wilson Collection, The Outer Banks History Center, Manteo, NC
Outer Banks Shag Club history, cont'd... December of 2018. Co-presidents were elected in January 2019. Al Douglass and Jeff Albarty together carried the club forward through all of 2019. The Club enjoyed many of the normal events: weekly social dances, pig picking, fish fry, and of course the New Year’s Eve Gala. The norm changed in 2020. Social gatherings came to a halt throughout the entire country due to COVID. The Club did stay together hoping this pandemic would end soon. That was not so much the case. Due to conditions and restrictions for social gatherings, they would not have functions during that period. It wasn’t until late in 2022 that the club would meet again. Al Douglass and his board worked to transition to a new board by year end. Thank you Al for keeping the Club together during this period of uncertainty. In January of 2023, Michael Guida was
elected president. and with the help and support of his wife, LaDonna, who he met dancing, were instrumental in revitalizing the energy in the club. Through their appreciation of the dance, desire to see others enjoy it, often finding themselves giving “mini lessons” to friends to spark that interest to come and try it out. Through their efforts, many new people came to be members, with many later serving on boards and committees during those years. With the new board in place in 2023, the primary focus was to get the word out to locals and surrounding clubs that the Outer Banks Shag Club was still the place to go for that “beach dance experience.” Dance socials were quickly set up at Duck Woods Country Club. Along with pig pickings and the annual Christmas party, much was in place again. Dance lessons were held at the community center to help promote “the Dance” to
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the community. Michael worked with Dare Arts to set up Shag Dancing events again in downtown Manteo during a Fall First Friday celebration at the Magnolia Pavilion. With the pandemic behind and membership continuing to grow, the decision was made to bring back the 2-day New Year’s Eve Gala. In all, a good return to “norm” in 2023! The club received word from Duck Woods Country Club, which was under new management after the pandemic, that effective early 2024, the Shag Club would no longer be able to hold their weekly dance socials at their club. Michael reached out to Carol Ann, owner of the Jolly Roger Restaurant, a beach icon since 1970s, as a possible new home for the Club. With their Beach Road location and newly expanded renovations near completion, the venue would provide that perfect beach atmosphere so common to authentic Carolina shag dancing. The Club made the
Outlook 2026 • 23
Outer Banks Shag Club history, cont'd... move in Spring of 2024. Crowds – a combination of locals, visitors and vacationers– gathered on Thursdays from 5:30-8 p.m. weekly to listen and dance to their favorite tunes by exclusive beach music DJs. The Club flourished in the following years with weekly dance socials, Spring pig pickings, Christmas parties, and New Year’s Eve Galas. After three years of service to the club as president, Michael decided it was time to take a break as president. Unfortunately, with the club members aging and many having served in prior years, there were insufficient numbers to take on new board positions for 2026. The club voted to dissolve at year’s end 2025, which did coincide with the holding of
its 30th Annual 2-day New Year’s Eve Gala as its final event. It was another very successful event with over 150 in attendance. People came from many clubs around Virginia and North Carolina to say farewell. It was a true celebration! Throughout the years, through many changes in location, leadership and members, the Club has maintained its central purpose – to promote and preserve shag dancing and shag music, teach others, including beginners, the art of shag dancing and to be good community citizens by supporting local charities. With that in mind, Michael, once again working with Carol Ann at the Jolly Roger Restaurant, was able to continue
to make shag dancing available in the future. Arrangements have been put in place for the Jolly Roger to sponsor weekly shag dancing on Thursdays at the normal time. Currently, no cover is required and dancing will be with our normal beach music DJs. Everything is in place so “Shaggers” can continue to enjoy the music, dancing and socializing with some of the nicest people living and visiting on the Outer Banks! … One final note, upon completion of steps for dissolution, all remaining Club funds were donated to the Outer Banks Relief Foundation, a local charity. – Submitted by Michael Guida, Outer Banks Shag Club
24 • Outlook 2026
First Flight High School senior Jorge Flores was selected as the first student to fly in the student-built airplane constructed at First Flight High School. The two-and-a-half-year project began in 2023 under the supervision of retired US Navy Admiral Joey Tynch. Summer Stevens photo
Student plane takes flight! By Summer Stevens summer.stevens@thecoastlandtimes.com Talk about a milestone! Tuesday, April 14 was a momentous day for First Flight High School students enrolled in the Aviation course as they witnessed the inaugural flight of a functional, FAA-certified airplane they helped to build. Through Tango Flight, a non-profit corporation that provides classroom learning and hands-on training, First Flight students have worked together over the last two and a half years to construct a two-seat all-metal sideby-side kit plane. Students learned and applied engineering concepts related to aerospace, electrical, mechanical, manufacturing and design for the Van’s RV-12iS model. “These are the hardest working young men and women you will ever see,” said
First Flight High School students gathered at First Flight Airport Tuesday morning to see two and a half years of work come to fruition with the successful flights of the plane they helped to build. Summer Stevens photo
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Outlook 2026 • 25 retired U.S. Navy Admiral Joey Tynch, who led the program at First Flight High School. “The Outer Banks has done a tremendous job raising their community.” In 2023, the National Park Service converted a storage space to a fully functional air-conditioned Aviation Lab at the Wright Brothers Memorial for students to construct the aircraft, only the second plane ever built on the historic site. Wilbur and Orville Wright assembled the Wright Flyer and achieved the first powered flight on December 17, 1903. Fittingly, First Flight High School students were the first students in North Carolina to build their own airplane through Tango Flight. More than 40 students participated in the build, along with several adult mentors. “Today is the culmination of a lot of work,” said Sam Sarbora, who has been enrolled in the class for two years. “It’s pretty cool to see it all come to fruition.” “This is the best class I’ve ever taken,” said Blake Medler, who is finishing up his first year in the Aviation Program. “It feels more like a team than a class, because we’re all working together for the same thing.” Oliver Voronovitch echoed the concept of teamwork. “There’s pressure, but at the same time everyone carries the same weight. You walk in the room and it's heavy. But as long as you’re with other people doing it, you can persevere through it.” Voronovitch noted that the greatest challenge was the longevity of the project. Though the plane took two and a half years to complete, the work had been nonstop for the 15 months leading up to the actual flight, even through summer vacations and school breaks. “It gives you a good work ethic and helps you develop good life skills – be on time, be healthy, don’t do bad stuff. What I learned is to stay on task. If things get rough, don’t quit,” Voronovitch said. And that is exactly what the program sets out to accomplish. It is about much more than just building an airplane – it’s about developing leaders, fostering teamwork and encouraging commitment through mentorship and hands-on learning. “I could not be more proud of the students we’ve had,” Admiral Tynch said. “To see the change in them after two years is amazing – responsibility, structure, organization, leadership, teamwork. It has been remarkable.” Along with Admiral Tynch, five community mentors have devoted thousands of hours to train and teach First Flight Students: Jim Davis, Peter Fynn, Scott Morton, Bob Newman, Tim Ribble and Tony Bruno, who passed away November 23, 2025. “The backbone of the project is these local mentors,” Tynch said. The men have shared their expertise in engineering, construction, piloting and aeronautical construction.
Peter Fynn served as a mentor for the First Flight High School Aviation Program, teaching students how to construct an airplane from scratch through a nationwide organization called Tango Flight. Summer Stevens photo
26 • Outlook 2026
Men who helped to build First Flight High School’s student-built airplane celebrate successful flights. From right: Xander Brown, Mathew George, Admiral Joey Tynch, Jorge Flores and Michael Woodard. Summer Stevens photo
“The class definitely came with a lot more work than I thought it would, but I enjoyed every bit of it,” said Finn Engley, who participated in the project for two years. “It’s way more hands-on than any class I’ve ever taken. It almost doesn’t feel like a class because you’re just building something and it's fun to do.” The community gathered at the First Flight Airport in Kill Devil Hills, in sight of the Wright Brothers Memorial, to witness the landing of the student plane. The aircraft took off from the Dare County Airport in Manteo and touched down to a cheering crowd a few minutes after 9 a.m. Dare County Schools Superintendent Steve Basnight was invited to be the very first passenger on the two-seater plane, piloted by Bob Newman. Newman took Basnight south to Oregon Inlet, returned for a flyover, and then landed safely again at First Flight Airport. Jorge Flores had the honor of being the first student passenger on the plane. Both he and classmate Alexander Sharp dedicated significant hours to the project. Because
Sharp was selected to give a speech at the unveiling event December 17 at the Wright Brothers Memorial, it was agreed that Flores would serve as the first student passenger. Flores moved to the Outer Banks from Atlanta and got in on the beginning of the project. “It was the luckiest thing ever,” he said. He had always been interested in aviation, whether it was through video games or movies like Top Gun. When he heard about the project, his response was immediate. “Build a plane? I want to do that.” He said he’s considering joining the Air Force after graduation and credits the Aviation Program in part to that decision. “It was the sense that I belong to something bigger than me,” Flores told The Coastland Times when asked why he devoted so many hours to the project. “I have to try as hard as I can. I want to be as much a part of this as I possibly can because it’s just such a huge thing.” The plane made its way down the runway, not far from where Wilbur and Orville Wright made their historic flight 123 years
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Dare County Schools Superintendent Steve Basnight whooped and hollered following the very first passenger flight for First Flight High School’s student-built airplane. Basnight was flown down to Oregon Inlet and back, a trip that lasted about 30 minutes.
Summer Stevens photo
ago, and lifted into the air. After taking the same route to Oregon Inlet and back, Flores and pilot Bob Newman touched back down. Flores was all smiles as he exited the plane. After high fives and hugs from classmates, he took a minute to reflect on the experience. “I just feel so accomplished,” he said. “To get this far from where we started, it’s incredible.”
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30 • Outlook 2026 Mary Helen Goodloe-Murphy photo
Dare A250 Faire: Wow! What a celebration
D
are County’s America 250 Faire was a party, complete with three locations for top-quality music, organizations trimmed out in patriotic red, white and blue, vendors with everything to purchase or eat, and people smiling and face-painted children. People were invited to celebrate Liberty, Legacy and Lift Off in the Land of Beginnings at the Dare A250 Faire. Held along the waterfront in downtown Manteo on Saturday, April 18, 2026, the party stretched out along Queen Elizabeth Avenue and Sir Walter Raleigh Street and Budleigh Street and over the Cora Mae Basnight Bridge to Roanoke Island Festival Park. Wandering the town’s streets were a stilt walker, bubble artist, a juggler and historic characters from The Lost Colony.
Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station’s team set up its real cannon used in the summertime breaches buoy demonstration. The airplane built by students at First Flight High School was on display. Two opening ceremonies featured the nation’s Star Spangled Banner sung by locals Betsy Robinson and Caitlyn Gray. Twice, main sponsor representatives provided patriotic messages and welcomes. Included as presenting sponsors were Town of Manteo, Dare County, Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, Don and Catharine Bryan Cultural Series, Roanoke Island Festival Park and Southern Bank, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. Additional sponsors numbered 25. Music came from three primary places including the All American Stage, the
Milestones
Outlook 2026 • 31 Mary Helen Goodloe-Murphy photo
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32 • Outlook 2026
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Magnolia Pavilion and Festival Park. Headlining the evening event in the park was an Earth, Wind and Fire tribute from the Ray Howard Band. Audience members tapped their feet, sang along and danced to the very energetic presentation. The Grand Finale featured a 28-member Community Choir and brass band directed
by John Buford and a multi-media presentation with audio. It was a patriotic production celebrating America’s enduring spirit and a fitting end to a glorious day. Thanks to all the volunteers and town and county employees who worked tirelessly for many months to make the day so memorable.
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Outlook 2026 • 33
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34 • Outlook 2026
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36 • Outlook 2026
Photos courtesy The Elizabethan Gardens
Rooted in history, growing into the future: The Elizabethan Gardens celebrates 75 years By Danielle Puleo danielle.puleo@thecoastlandtimes.com ome of the most enduring places begin with a simple idea. Seventyfive years ago, a group of visionary women attended a performance of The Lost Colony on Roanoke Island and imagined
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something more. What if there were a garden, a place of beauty and reflection, to complement the story of the first English settlement in the New World? That spark of inspiration, born in 1950 and championed by members of The Garden Club of North Carolina, would grow into what
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is now known as The Elizabethan Gardens: a 10-acre landscape of historic statuary, towering live oaks, vibrant blooms and winding paths overlooking Roanoke Sound. Today, as The Elizabethan Gardens celebrates its 75th anniversary, the original vision remains very much alive. "I just love
Outlook 2026 • 37 the idea that these women from the North Carolina Garden Club went to the play one evening and had this big lightbulb moment," said gardens manager Daniel Hossack, who has worked at the Gardens for the past eight years. "They thought, 'What could we do to further this idea of the English settlement and what that meant?' Building a pleasure garden is what they would have done had they had a town in Elizabethan England." What began as a modest proposal for a two-acre garden soon evolved into something far grander. The donation of centuries-old Italian statuary and fountains from the estate of Ambassador John Hay Whitney transformed the project, inspiring an elaborate Elizabethan-style garden unlike any other in America. Construction began in 1953 on the day Queen Elizabeth II was crowned, and the Gardens formally opened in 1960. Since then, generations of visitors have wandered its pathways, admired its historic monuments and created memories among its blooms. For Hossack, one of the most remarkable aspects of the Gardens is not simply its history, but its ability to continually evolve while honoring its roots. "The Gardens started as this really modest thing—just an idea that they chose to look into," he said. "Now it's a 10-acre garden that is really evolving and expanding continually." That evolution is evident throughout the property. While the iconic Sunken Garden, Virginia Dare statue, Queen's Rose Garden and centuries-old Italian fountain remain beloved landmarks, new additions such as the sensory garden and nursery have helped introduce the Gardens to new generations.
The Elizabethan Gardens
38 • Outlook 2026 Where visitors once primarily came to admire the scenery, today's guests are just as likely to participate in workshops, butterfly releases, educational programs or volunteer projects. "When I first started, we had a few loyal volunteers," Hossack said. "Now we have a whole group. We've grown with our community. We've offered a place for everyone to have a stake in it." That sense of inclusion has helped transform The Elizabethan Gardens into far more than a tourist attraction. "It's not just for people who come visit," Hossack explained. "It's for people who live here, who want to visit, school groups, the Dementia Coalition … it's pretty wide-ranging at this point." Children explore fairy gardens and fragrant herbs in the sensory garden. Local gardeners seek advice about plants for their own landscapes. Families gather for seasonal events like A Night of 1587 Pumpkin Nights and WinterLights. Community groups find a welcoming green space where history, nature
Outlook 2026 • 39 and education intersect. "I think at first it was, you know, take a walk through some beautiful gardens," Hossack said. "Now it's become, what can we offer everyone? What can we do to keep this place fresh and exciting?" The answer, he believes, lies in continuing to balance preservation with innovation. Recent years have seen significant restoration efforts aimed at protecting the Gardens' historic treasures for future generations. The iconic waterside gates have been relocated and stabilized after years of erosion threatened their future. Plans are underway to professionally restore and clean portions of the Sunken Garden, while work is also being done to revitalize the historic Gate House. "Our job is
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to keep it here for another 500 years," Hossack said. Maintaining a historic garden on the Outer Banks comes with unique challenges. Hurricanes, salt air, pests and shifting environmental conditions constantly test the resilience of the landscape. Even during Hossack's tenure, storms such as Hurricane Dorian and Hurricane Michael claimed numerous trees throughout the property. Yet he views those challenges as opportunities. "Our history on the Outer Banks is written by storms," he said. "The Gardens are no different." The original creators of the Gardens understood that reality. Rather than clearing the maritime forest entirely, they preserved much of the existing land-
40 • Outlook 2026 scape, allowing native trees to shelter and strengthen the property. "The people who built this garden were the original ‘cool kids’ doing native gardening," Hossack said with a laugh. Today, the Gardens continue that tradition through an ever-expanding collection of plants that ranges from native species and butterfly host plants to nearly 100 cultivars of hydrangeas and approximately 230 varieties of camellias. Visitors can admire one of the oldest trees on Roanoke Island, stroll beneath miles of carefully maintained hedges and discover hidden treasures tucked along woodland paths. Some surprises are entirely unexpected. Hossack points to a statue affectionately known as "Pillow Boy" in the Woodland Garden, where visitors frequently leave coins, train tickets, handwritten notes and other small offerings. "You never know what you're going to come across," he said. "That's part of this magical place."
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Outlook 2026 • 41 For many local residents, The Elizabethan Gardens is deeply personal. Generations of students have posed for yearbook photos among its flowers. Couples have exchanged wedding vows beneath its historic trees. Families have returned year after year to celebrate milestones of their own. Hossack recalls one particularly meaningful example. When current executive director Brendan Medlin was applying for the position, his application included a photograph of himself and his wife standing in the Sunken Garden, the very place where they had been married. "It's that full-circle feeling of loving a place and then someday getting to come back and be a bigger part of it moving forward," Hossack said. Perhaps that is the true legacy of The Elizabethan Gardens after 75 years, not simply the historic artifacts, rare plants or breathtaking views, but the countless memories cultivated among them. For Hossack, however, the Gardens offer
Photos courtesy The Elizabethan Gardens
42 • Outlook 2026 something even deeper: a chance to slow down and reconnect with the world around you. "People always come in and start looking at their map of the Gardens," he said. "I always say, 'You should take that map, put it in your pocket and just go take a walk and just soak it in. See what you see, notice what you notice and just pay attention to something else for once.'" He encourages visitors to experience the Gardens with all their senses. "Stick your face into a pile of herbs and touch the lemon balm," he said. "Hold a hydrangea in your hand that still has morning dew on it." In a world that often
moves too fast, Hossack believes the Gardens provide a rare opportunity to pause. "I think this is a place where you can break people—not break people, but open the door for them," he said. "Whether you're into gardening or not, I defy you to walk through the Gardens today and hold the flowers and not just kind of lose yourself for one second." Seventy-five years after a handful of women imagined what could be, The Elizabethan Gardens continues to do exactly that … inviting visitors to step away from the noise, immerse themselves in beauty and become part of a story that is still growing.
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Outlook 2026 • 43
44 • Outlook 2026
Courtesy Currituck BBQ
Built on family, fueled by community: Currituck BBQ celebrates 20 years By Danielle Puleo danielle.puleo@thecoastlandtimes.com wenty years ago, opening a restaurant wasn't necessarily part of Paul Robinson's plan. In fact, when he and his father first began discussing the possibility, all they really had were family recipes, a love of good food and a belief that his father's cooking deserved a bigger audience. "We had always talked about Dad's cooking," Robinson, owner of Currituck BBQ recalled. "We thought if we were ever able to instill that into a restaurant, then we'd be successful." Two decades later, that leap of faith has grown into one of Currituck County's most beloved dining destinations.
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This year, Currituck BBQ celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of serving North Carolina barbecue, welcoming visitors traveling to and from the Outer Banks and becoming woven into the fabric of the community it calls home. For Robinson, the journey began long before the restaurant opened its doors. Although he grew up outside of Washington, D.C., his mother was a Currituck native, and family vacations were spent visiting the area. After graduating from college, Robinson moved to Virginia Beach before eventually finding his way back to Currituck. At the time, he owned another business in Virginia and was looking for his next opportunity when a building in Barco became
Milestones
available. His father had recently retired and relocated to Kansas, while his mother had settled in Currituck. Robinson saw an opportunity to bring everyone together around something they all knew well. "After quite a bit of convincing, we looked at the building and convinced Dad to come and play," he said with a laugh. The family purchased the property in 2005 and officially opened Currituck BBQ in 2006. “We managed a restaurant with very limited to no experience, other than the fact that we had recipes we thought would work," Robinson said. "Really, that's what it was." At just 25 years old, Robinson found himself navigating his second business venture while learning the restaurant indus-
Outlook 2026 • 45 try on the fly. Then came the recession. "When the economy went down in 2008, my other business died," he said. "This business [Currituck BBQ] held on by a string, and thankfully it just kept growing and growing." Those early years required sacrifice. Robinson was young and willing to work long hours for little pay. His parents helped where they could, and a retired investor assisted with bookkeeping. Rather than taking profits, the family reinvested in the business, expanding the kitchen, building infrastructure and laying the groundwork for future growth. "It came down to food," Robinson said. "We were able to make decisions that were best for the time." By the third year, the strategy was paying off. The restaurant began growing rapidly, and an unexpected opportunity emerged through catering. "We quickly learned that if we catered a wedding at the beach, that Sunday we'd be really busy because everyone who was at the catered event would stop at the restaurant before heading home," Robinson said. The two sides of the business began feeding one another. "Catering fed the restaurant, which fed catering, which fed the restaurant." For years, growth came so quickly that the team found themselves constantly adapting. "We had to rewrite our processes every year because it kept changing," Robinson said. Simple tasks that once involved preparing a small
batch suddenly required industrial-scale production. "When we made coleslaw, we weren't making a half gallon anymore, we were making five gallons," he said. "Learning how to scale everything was probably one of the biggest challenges." Among the restaurant's most significant additions was the large covered pavilion, which has become a popular gathering place for events and celebrations. "The 40-by-100 pavilion was massive," Robinson said. "It was a challenge and a milestone in itself." The restaurant's growth eventually extended beyond Currituck County. On April 22, 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic was beginning to upend businesses across the country,
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46 • Outlook 2026 Robinson opened a second Currituck BBQ location in Elizabeth City. For many business owners, the timing might have been enough to put expansion plans on hold. Instead, Robinson pressed forward, adding another chapter to the company's story while continuing to grow both the restaurant and catering sides of the business. While the operation has grown substantially over the years, one thing has remained remarkably consistent: the food. "The recipes have pretty much stayed the same," Robinson said. "The challenge has been how to scale them so they still taste the same." The restaurant's signature North Carolina pork barbecue remains its top seller and the foundation upon which the business was built. "Pork barbecue is the fan favorite," he said. "It's always going to be the core staple." Still, every menu item seems to have
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Outlook 2026 • 47 its loyal following. "Some people come for the sweet potato casserole, some come for the mac and cheese, some come for brisket, some come for chicken," Robinson said. "If something runs out, somebody's not happy." From the beginning, Robinson and his family believed success meant more than serving good food. One of their earliest goals was supporting the community that supported them. "If you support the community, they support you back," he said. Twenty years later, that philosophy continues to define the business. Longtime employees have become like family, with some team members remaining with the restaurant for nearly its entire existence. "I think every time one of our staff members hits a milestone, 10 years, 15 years, whatever it may be, that ends up being a big deal for us," Robinson said. The bonds extend far beyond the workplace. Restaurants, he noted, often attract
an eclectic mix of personalities. "The most rewarding part of what I get to do is that restaurants tend to be a collection of misfits," Robinson said. "You end up collecting a lot of misfits and turning a lot of misfits into family." Former employees routinely return to help during busy weekends and large catering events. Others remain connected long after moving on to different careers. "We're a very close-knit crew," Robinson said. "Even the ones who leave end up being part of it forever." That sense of family extends beyond the staff and into the community itself. Over the years, generations of customers have made Currituck BBQ part of their own traditions and milestones. Some first visited as children and now return as adults. Others have chosen the restaurant to cater weddings and family celebrations. "My biggest hope is that people associate Currituck BBQ with something that
was special to them," Robinson said. For him, that may be the greatest measure of success. As Currituck BBQ enters its third decade, Robinson is once again focusing his attention on the business that started it all. Plans are underway to expand the adjacent meat market, continue work on the long-anticipated Schoolhouse project and explore new possibilities for the farm property behind the restaurant. After years spent pursuing other ventures, he finds himself energized by returning to where it all began. "It's been reinvigorating," Robinson said. Twenty years after convincing his father to take a chance on a barbecue restaurant in Currituck, Robinson is still building, still dreaming and still serving the community that helped make those dreams possible. And if the past two decades are any indication, the story of Currituck BBQ is far from finished.
48 • Outlook 2026
A perfect fit:
Miss Lizzie's marks 25 years of color, confidence and connection By Danielle Puleo danielle.puleo@thecoastlandtimes.com or many women, shopping is about more than finding something to wear. It's about discovering pieces that make them feel confident, comfortable and ready for whatever life brings next. For 25 years, Miss Lizzie's has been helping women do exactly that. Located in Kitty Hawk, the beloved boutique has built a loyal following by embracing a simple philosophy: fashion should be fun. Today, as Miss Lizzie's celebrates its 25th anniversary, owner Beth Wadle is reflecting on the journey that brought her to the Outer Banks and the community that has made the business a success. "When I first stepped into Miss Lizzie's, it wasn't just a boutique, it was a feeling," Wadle said. That feeling ultimately changed the course of her retirement. Growing up in a family that owned restaurants, vending businesses, video arcades and video rental stores, Wadle was no stranger to entrepreneurship. Still, she chose a different professional path, earning undergraduate and master's degrees in engineering before spending more than 30 years in federal service and defense contracting. The dream of owning a business, however, never disappeared. After retiring from federal service in 2016, Wadle and her husband purchased what they planned to be their future retirement home on the Outer Banks. While browsing local business listings shortly after closing on the house, she noticed that Miss Lizzie's was for sale. Their original retirement plan quickly accelerated.
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Courtesy Miss Lizzie's
"Our eight-year plan became a threeto five-year plan, then became a one-year plan," Wadle laughed. Curious about the opportunity, she visited the boutique several times, researched the business and eventually met founder Bobbie Perry. The turning point came when Perry invited her to attend a buying market. "It was when I went to market with her that I said, 'I can do this,'" Wadle said. She officially purchased the business in September 2018. The boutique's name, originally inspired by Perry's daughter Liz, remained unchanged under its new ownership. For Wadle, whose formal first name is also Elizabeth, preserving the name felt like the perfect way to honor the store's history while beginning a new chapter.
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Today, Miss Lizzie's caters primarily to women ages 50 and older, offering colorful, comfortable fashions designed to complement active lifestyles. From travelwear and leisurewear to coastal-inspired resort styles, every piece is selected with the customer in mind. "Our customers love shopping here because they can find clothes that speak to them," Wadle said. The boutique emphasizes comfort without sacrificing style. Stretch fabrics, flattering cuts and functional features help customers feel confident while navigating busy lives filled with travel, family, hobbies and social activities. As Wadle explained, even small details matter. "I try to minimize buttons and zippers as much as possible because as we get
Outlook 2026 • 49
older, our dexterity is not what it once was," she said. "It's about ease of being able to get dressed." Color also plays a major role. "Miss Lizzie's is full of colors … black, white and khaki are hard to sell, believe it or not,”
Wadle said with a laugh. The store's signature tagline, "Fashion for the Fun of It,” originated with Perry and remains central to the boutique's identity today. Beyond the clothing itself, Wadle believes
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the real secret to Miss Lizzie's longevity is the relationships built over the years. Rather than focusing solely on online sales, she has remained committed to maintaining a personal shopping experience where conversa-
50 • Outlook 2026 tions matter as much as transactions. "Part of what I stand for is being able to see people every day and talk to them," she said. "I still get to solve problems, but I get to see people, and that’s so important." That commitment extends far beyond the sales floor. Customers receive birthday cards and special discounts, staff members help coordinate outfits and longtime shoppers can call to reserve pieces they spot on social media. "It's not transactional," Wadle said. "We're always having a conversation." Many of those relationships span generations. Wadle inherited an office manager who has now been with the business for more than two decades. Several employees first came to Miss Lizzie's as customers before joining the team, and one current summer employee represents the third generation of
her family to shop at the store. "It's neat to watch her grow," Wadle said. Like many businesses, Miss Lizzie's faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The experience prompted Wadle to rethink everything from store operations to business hours. "The pandemic helped me figure out that it's okay to change your hours," she said. "Adapt to what the rhythms are." The store also relocated during that period, moving from its longtime hot pink building into its current Harbor Bay Shops location, a space Wadle says has allowed the business to thrive. Today, she continues adapting to an evolving retail landscape through expanded digital marketing efforts, social media engagement and online shopping options. While traditional television advertising once played a significant role, Wadle now focuses on plat-
forms like Meta and Google to connect with customers. Yet despite technological advances, she believes some things will never change. "The touch of the fabric, functional fashion … I don't see that going anywhere," she said. As Miss Lizzie's celebrates 25 years, Wadle remains passionate about serving a demographic she believes is often overlooked by the fashion industry. "For the 50-plus customer, I've read that as you get older, you're invisible," she said. "I don't see that here." Instead, she sees smiles, confidence and excitement. "I hear the 'oohs' and 'ahhs,'" Wadle said. "And I say, 'Yup, we’re doing something right.'" After 25 years, that sense of joy remains at the heart of Miss Lizzie's, proof that fashion, friendship and community never go out of style.
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The Brew Thru family includes, from left, the late Dana Lawrentz, his daughter Brandy Foreman, son-in-law Philip Foreman and his wife and business partner Becky Lawrentz.
Courtesy Brew Thru
‘A good life’
Brew Thru gears up for 50th year By Daryl Law Correspondent Back in 1977, the late Dana Lawrentz had a crazy idea to build a drive through convenience store on the Outer Banks. Now, five decades later, Brew Thru is the king of beer stores with five locations. According to his successor, son-in-law Philip Foreman, Brew Thru plans to celebrate their 50th anniversary in a big way for the 2027 season. “We have a few tricks up our sleeves for next summer,” he said. “You know, like Disney, we’re going to bring things out of the vault.” Of course, there will be a new design on
the 2027 T-shirts to go along with all the six-packs, cases and kegs of brew. In fact, it’s the number of T-shirts printed and sold over the years that serves as a great gauge of Brew Thru’s success. According to Foreman, they’ve sold right around six million! “Crazy,” he said. “Two hundred thousand every summer.” Each year, there’s a new design. People treasure these unique mementos of their vacations to the glorious “OBX” and because the design changes annually, many customers buy a new one each year. You’ll see folks wearing them on the beach, while fueling their car and out at
Milestones
restaurants. They’re so popular, it’s not uncommon to see them when traveling, especially when in Virginia. Ironically, Lawrentz first passed on the T-shirt idea when it was originally suggested by salesman Butch Baum and Alltuf T-Shirts printer “Tuffy” Samuels. It took the men several attempts to convince Lawrentz to give it a try, according to Dana’s wife and business partner Becky. “Dana was like ‘no, no, no,’” she recalled. “Butch Baum was a friendly guy, always laughing and joking. “Finally, he said, ‘Come on, you buy a gross of T-shirts, and I’ll split the cost and profits,’” Becky said. “They all sold out in
Outlook 2026 • 53 two weeks, the rest is history.” Brew Thru customers relish the act of driving through these five convenience stores. Just pull in, place your order and check out the brightly colored T-shirts that feature fresh graphic artwork. The beer tenders are always upbeat and smiling. Tips are appreciated and there’s always music playing in the background. During the early years, Foreman said Dana and wife Becky operated the original Brew Thru themselves. In fact, they made every decision together, Becky said. “Dana and I worked side-by-side the whole time,” Becky said. “I didn’t help build the building, but I brought in the food – I was behind the scenes. “These days the T-shirts come in folded and in a wrapper,” she said. “But I have folded thousands and thousands of tees even while the kids were watching TV. “Back then, our garage was the warehouse and Dana would call, ‘I need 10 cases of Coke, or I need 10 cases of beer,’ and I would run it over,” Becky said. “I also worked at the store at night, worked until closing after fixing dinner and putting the kids to bed,” she said. “That’s just how we rolled; sometimes Brandy would be in a playpen at the store.” “I was always in on every decision,” Becky added. “I would also fill in when people were sick or missing.” Together Dana and Becky ran Brew Thru from 1977 to 2003, when they each retired after selling the business to Philip and their daughter Brandy, who had married after dating in high school and college. Before that, however, Philip and Brandy had their own visions of their future together. Move to Raleigh or perhaps Washington, D.C. Philip wanted to go into politics and had already worked with then Sen. Marc Basnight in Raleigh. Brandy had always wanted to live in a city, Philip said, and had her sights set on becoming a teacher; that way she could easily find a job wherever Philip’s career took them. Philip said it took Dana several attempts to convince him to consider buying the Brew Thru operation. He would even get emotional about it, Philip noted. Later, after reviewing the profit and loss statements, Philip and Brandy realized what an awesome opportunity Dana was offering. Philip knew the Brew Thru stores did well, but he wanted to be in politics, perhaps a senator himself. In the end, Brandy gave Philip the green light to decide. “She said, ‘It’s up to you,’ and I told Dana I’d try it for one year,” Philip said. “Brandy took a job at Manteo Elementary School, and I was made the manager of the Nags Head Brew Thru store.” From there, things took off and eventually, they made a deal where the Philip and Brandy bought out Dana and Becky.
The Brew Thru Surf Rescue Team, including Sherry “The Sarg” Straub, Bryan Murray, Chris Byrum, Mason Camp and Dana Lawrentz.
Courtesy Brew Thru
54 • Outlook 2026 “I took over selling the world-famous T-shirts and the most recognizable retail store on the Outer Banks,” Philip said. “And I was good at it, Dana liked me and we ended up staying.” Along the way, they built new stores and bought out competitors. Currently, they have locations in Corolla, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head and Jockey’s Ridge with a warehouse and corporate office in Wanchese. After Brew Thru purchased the old Cooler Cruz building on the corner of East Wilkinson and the 158 Bypass in Kill Devil Hills, Philip said the bulldozer operator let him drive the heavy equipment through the old crumbling building, which faced the wrong way in Philip’s mind. Once the new Brew Thru was erected with the main door facing the bypass, Philip said the mayor gave him an award and said, “it was the most beautiful store on the Outer Banks.” All along way, Dana and Philip depended on hard-working managers such as Sherry Straub, who still has fond memories of those days. She worked for them from 1981 until 2016. Along the way, she picked up the nickname “The Sarg.” “It was a long time, I worked for Dana and Philip,” she said. “We had our moments being that [age-wise] Philip could have been my son. “But I appreciated Philip,” Straub said. “Dana worked hard, Philip was an entrepreneur with great ideas who
brought us into the 21st century. “It was fun to watch him,” she said. “Brew Thru would not have succeeded if Philip had not succeeded. “Philip had his hands full,” Straub said. “Dana and Philip were very similar.” Over the years, she earned everyone’s respect and was an important part of the operation. She worked her way up from the bottom to the top and was eventually served as Philip’s right arm woman. “When I got pregnant, they treated me like family,” she noted. “It’s all about attitude. “I am very proud of that company, and I would never say anything bad about Brew Thru,” Straub said. “It was a pleasure.” She also had interesting, clear memories of Dana back in the days before she was hired. “I used to work at McDonald’s in KDH,” Straub said. “In his heyday, he looked like Burt Reynolds.” When he would come in everyone remembered him as the “large black coffee guy,” she said. “Dana was charismatic.” After a while, Dana called her over to talk one morning. He said he noticed how she was “always in motion" and he asked her to come work for him at Brew Thru. “When I told him what I made, he said ‘I can’t pay you that,’” Straub recalled. Three weeks later, she took him up on the offer and worked
Dana “Big D” Lawrentz, creator of Brew Thru, poses with his beloved red Ferrari 308 GTS he bought in New York City and drove back to the Outer Banks in the late ’80s. He’s picture doing his best “Magnum P.I.” pose.
Courtesy Brew Thru
for Brew Thru for 35 years. “I think the world of Dana, Philip, Brandy and Becky, they were great, they were all very good to me,” she said. Dana, aka “Big D,” was all about some nice cars and he was always buying another better one, Becky said. He made quite a splash on the beach when he brought home the red Ferrari 308 GTS and buzzed around town.
M B ri leews t To hn reus
It’s the same style and color car that private investigator Thomas Magnum drove in the television series Magnum P.I., which ran for eight seasons starting in 1980. Some say Dana favored Tom Selleck, or better yet, a cross between Reynolds and Selleck. “Dana traded cars like a mad man, he didn’t drink, smoke or go out,” Becky said. “It was all good … it was a good life.”
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