Carolina Currents July-August 2010

The Boating and Waterfront Magazine

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July/August 2010

Readers’ Personal Stories from the Water

Michelob Regatta Returns on Labor Day

Beaufort,NC Sailor’s Paradise

The Coastal Comeback Slow but steady recovery

Talking Regattas Perspectives on Racing

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Read us online,But print remains vibrant

Via the Internet, you can read the complete Carolina Currents Issue 20

at www.carolinacurrents.com. Please take time to explore our online edition.

Our program allows you to turn pages with a simple click. And all advertisers us-ing websites have embedded links in their advertisements. When you click on an ad, you are taken directly to the company’s website.

Carolina Currents is proud to offer both options for readers and surfers. It’s an essential part of doing business. We will continue to offer digital updates, including an interactive blog platform for Carolinas sailors and cruisers in the future.

But we learned something interesting from the mainstream print media this month. Something worth passing along. Time published an optimistic report about the current state of print and publishing in its July 12, 2010 issue:

“Contrary to popular mispercep-tion,” a Time narrative began, “the phenomenal popularity of the Inter-net has not come at the expense of magazines. Readership is actually in-creasing, and adults between 18 and 34 are among the most dedicated readers. They equal or surpass their over-34 counterparts in issues read per month and time spent per issue.”

The piece was designed to promote the power of print, but the key message provided an interesting counterpoint to the

“print-is-dead” message.So enjoy reading Carolina Currents in

the comfort of your cabin. But when you are online, we’ll be there, too. u

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Features6 The Coastal ComebackWaterfront businesses, boat dealers and tourism officials note a gradual but definite turnaround as business comes back to the seashore and inland lakes. Traffic is up, but major projects still lag behind.

10 Regattas and MoreTwo racing enthusiasts – one a commodore, the other a sailing teacher

– share their enthusiasm for sailing and regattas. Meet Jessica Koenig and Mark Baldridge.

12 Destination Beaufort, NCBlessed by geography, Beaufort has been a mariner’s haven since tall ships first sailed the Carolina coast. It’s still a destination for ocean-go-ing yacht captains and sailors getting underway for the Caribbean. The cozy waterfront town blends history, amenities and a genuine maritime culture.

15 Notices to MarinersA captain reviews these notices, but you need to sign up to benefit. The system of notices has changed, so you probably need to pay attention after all.

18 Your Voices from the WaterfrontA new feature brings the perspective of sailors and boaters directly to Carolina Currents in their own voice with their own photos. A perfect sail to Edenton is recounted by Mary Ann Parham; inland lake lover and S.C. resident Alan Middleton motors across Lake Murray.

23 Inland Lakes Rebounding, TooA waterfront businessman from South Carolina reports on the incremental economic recovery underway along the inland lakes. Meet Charlie Higgins of Lake Murray.

21 Thanks to our advertisers.Take a look at the list of regional businesses supporting Carolina Currents on page 21. If you enjoy the magazine, support our advertisers.


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4 Carolina Currents July/August 2010 www.carolinacurrents.com

P.O. Box 12068, Raleigh, NC 27605Phone 919-539-8155

[email protected]

~ Independently Owned and Operated ~

Editor and Publisher: Tim Pittman / Pittman Media Group, Inc.Publishers Emeriti: Rob and Jo LuceyContributing Writers and Columnists: Jessica Koenig, Mark Baldridge, Mary Ann Parham, Alan Middleton, Charlie Higgins.Unsigned articles are written by Carolina Currents staff.Photographer for Beaufort, NC Story: Scott Taylor of Beaufort, NCAdvertising Contacts: South Carolina: Alan Middleton, Director, Sales & Marketing for S.C.North Carolina: Jack Vincent, Hertford, NC; Tim Pittman, Raleigh, NC.Copyright 2010Entire contents and design copyrighted. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited without prior written consent of the publisher.

SubscriptionsAvailable for $16 per year ($30 for two years). Back issues are available for $3. Checks or money orders payable to Carolina Currents.

SubmissionsFor news stories, tips, letters, photos or other submissions, send an email to [email protected] welcome story or photo contributions. Vist our website for submission guidelines.

GeneralCarolina Currents is published bi-monthly and is distributed free at more than 700 marinas, boat clubs, stores, visitor centers, res-taurants and waterfront locations across the Carolinas. Email us to request to be added to our distribution list.This magazine is printed in the Carolinas on paper with recycled content. Please give to another boater or recycle after use.Opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

On the CoverAerial photo of Taylor’s Creek by Scott Taylor, Beaufort, NC

Special thanks to Doug and Sheryl Mayle, who owned Carolina Currents during 2009.

Your magazine, our missionHelp us serve you more effectively – and win

As we publish the 20th edition of Carolina Currents, we salute our distinctive audience and our remarkable geography. And we pledge to connect the people and businesses that create the culture of the

Carolina waterfront. We will become the voice of the waterfront by allow-ing the people who live here to speak through our print and online plat-forms. Just take a look at the columnists in this issue.

From Nags Head to Hilton Head along the Atlantic, from Columbia to Raleigh on the inland lakes, Carolina Currents is the only print and online vehicle providing original content and useful, regional advertising for sail-ors, power boaters, cruisers, sportsmen, maritime businesses and residents of the Carolinas.

We’re proud of our magazine’s tradition of service as well as our unique distribution channels with more than 700 individual businesses, libraries and community institutions offering each issue to visitors.

But we want to better understand our audience. You can help by send-ing an email to [email protected] with the message line “sur-vey.” We’ll promptly send you a short survey that can be filled out quickly and returned by email or post.

During Labor Day week, we’ll randomly pick a winner of a $100 Ameri-can Express gift card. We’ll announce the winner in the September-October 2010 issue.

Your email addresses will be kept completely private and will not be available for further use.

But we need your feedback to shape your magazine. Send us your email – and include a few suggestions. As this issue demonstrates, we will bring your voices to Carolina Currents.

Write us at [email protected] or visit us online at www.carolinacurrents.com.

Participate in the survey; shape the future of your maga-zine. We appreciate your help. u

It’s your magazine, but it’s our mission.

Tell us what you think and win a $100 gift certificate.

Research will help us improve content.

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For over a century, Martin Printing has helped publishers successfully navigate the channels of print communication. From publications to direct mail, fulfillment to digital editions,see how our capabilities can become your advantage.

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The Coastal Comeback:

Ask a dock master at a Carolinas marina about the waterfront economy and you’ll hear a guarded

answer: Maybe business is a little better. Still a little slow. But we’re seeing a definite pick up.

That waterfront view of the economy is right on target, according to interviews with coastal business owners, state tourism officials, boat brokers and economic leaders.

A slow but steady upswing character-izes the state of the maritime economy in North and South Carolina. From Nags Head to Hilton Head along the coast and from Columbia to Raleigh on the inland lakes – the territory served by Carolina Currents – our editors heard encouraging reports of increased businesses at marinas, restaurants, piers, boat shows and brokers.

The comeback varies widely based on business type, size and location. While more dock slips are being sold and condos rented, fewer large marina projects are being built. Fuel prices hurt, too. But most small business owners most sound like the dock master: Yes – it’s getting a little better. The coastal comeback is underway.

It’s slow and steady – not as exciting or as visible as a July 4th rocket exploding over the water at a community fireworks show. But spending and travel are slowly returning.

Slow returnThe return to pre-recession commercial activity may be months away, at least. In some sectors, the comeback is signifi-cantly slower. Bigger projects that involve commercial financing are developing at a more deliberate pace. But family and small outing trips to waterfronts are ticking up again.

“Our vacation bookings are consider-ably better this season,” says Ryan Swaim, general manager of operations at Dunes Realty in Garden City, S.C., and a 15-min-ute drive from the center of Myrtle Beach. Dunes Realty manages over 900 vacation rental properties and resort real estate sales.

“We are up twenty percent over summer 2009 but were down in the spring,” Swaim

added. “But we have evidence that excess snow days in the northeast U.S. affected our business. The school make-up days ate into our spring break business. Last year was a rocky year so we aren’t out of the woods yet but the trends are good.”

Commercial development remains slowJim Combs of The Rowboat Company in Mooresville reports a definite business upturn, but acknowledges that commercial projects are still sluggish. “I do see the business coming back along the water-fronts,” Combs said. “For example, the pur-chase of boat slips is gradually increasing.

“But our marina development business is still relatively slow,” Combs said. “People are looking, but they are not investing yet.”

State tourism officials watch these de-velopments more closely than most. Indus-try leaders and observers in both Carolinas generally avoid projections for the future – preferring to use real time- data or rely on national projections – their overall message is encouraging.

Each segment of the maritime econo-mies report different challenges as well as different responses to increase business. From the coast to the inland lakes, boat brokers echo a familiar theme: business is slow, but picking up.

Tracey Nelson, general manager of

River’s Edge Marina on the banks of the Ashley River in North Charleston, says new boat sales have not returned to prior levels.

“The market was flooded with used boats the last two to three years,” says Nelson. “We are seeing lots more boaters at our marina, but more used boats than new. But we are doing more leases than last year and pumping more fuel. There is a lot more boating activity this summer than the past two.”

North Carolina trendsThe N.C. Department of Commerce mea-sures the upswing in terms of lodging data, which is an indication of travel and spend-

ing: “Our research is showing that tourism in North Carolina is rebounding,” says Lynn D. Minges, assistant secretary for tourism, marketing and global branding.

“In terms of lodging data, year-to-date 2010 (through April) we have seen a state-wide increase in hotel/motel occupancy of 4.1 percent and an increase in room revenues of 4.0 percent. Demand (actual number of rooms sold) has increased 6.9 percent year-to-date statewide,” Minges said.

The North Carolina coast is divided into three coastal economic development regions. All show increases in occupancy year-to-date, particularly the Northeast Region, where occupancy is up more than

“Travel and tourism sustains 378,000 jobs while bringing $22.2 billion to North Carolina each year and a large part of that is in our coastal communities. A healthy travel and tourism industry is an important part of creating and sustaining jobs on

the coast and throughout the state.”— Lynn D. Minges, Assistant Secretary, Tourism, Marketing and Global Branding

Commerce increases, but big projects lag behind

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Slow but steady recovery underway

four percent over this time last year. The Southeast is up 2.8 percent; Eastern region is up 1.5 percent. Room demand (the num-ber of rooms sold) is also up in all three coastal regions.

South Carolina trendsSouth Carolina reports similar trends. “We have seen steady increases in occu-

pancy along the coast since January and an even stronger gain during Memorial Day weekend,” said Chad Prosser, director of the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. “We see strong indications of increased business for the summer.”

Assuming the trends continue, Prosser said the state anticipates an 8 or 9 percent increase in occupancy for the summer.

Prosser said the tourism industry’s favorable mix of medium and small-sized businesses permit the flexibility to be responsive to consumer trends – a distinct advantage.

“Because the tourism industry is comprised predominantly of medium and small-sized businesses, it has an inherent agility that allows it to adjust to chang-ing economic conditions more quickly than other sectors of the economy, such as manufacturing,” Prosser said.

“Price and inventory are less fixed, allowing the visitor experience to follow consumer trends more closely. And, with consumer confidence improving, we think this bodes well for the tourism industry for the future.

In South Carolina, the Myrtle Beach area plays a significant role in the state’s overall tourism success. Brad Dean, president Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, predicted that 2010 will mark

“We have seen steady increases in occupancy along the coast since January and an even stronger gain during the Memorial Day weekend, with strong indications of increased business for the summer.”

— Chad Prosser, Director, S.C. Parks Recreation & Tourism

www.mccotters.com

an improvement over the previous year. “Yes, we are beginning to see signs of

a slow recovery. Recognizing the poten-tial impact of this downturn, the Myrtle Beach increased its investment into tourism promotion in late 2009,” Dean said. “As a result, our marketing budget has increased by roughly $15 million, and that has helped to grow promotion of the destination and spur a recovery in our lo-cal tourism industry.”

Effect of fuel pricesFuel prices are up this summer over 2009. Even though some coastal marinas see increased transient business, they are not pumping as much fuel because of the price differential.

“We are seeing that travelers aren’t spending as much with us than in the past,” says Chris Carroll, operations man-ager at Harborwalk Marina in George-town, South Carolina. “It’s clear to me that fuel prices have hurt.”


Oriental boat show attracts clients with checkbooksThe Oriental Boat Show in mid-April at the Pecan Grove Marina attracted more than 70 vendors and 1,500 attendees. Veteran boat dealers and other marine vendors saw a glimmer of economic energy in the turnout and vendor participation in the second consecutive spring show in Oriental.

Oriental Rotary Club leader Sam Myers produced the show and encouraged the Rotary Club leaders to help pull it together. He was so unabashedly positive about the outcome that he issued a glowing press release to regional media and leaders. His headline told the story: “Second Oriental Boat Show attracts clients with checkbooks.”

“Accounts from several 2010 Oriental Boat Show vendors indicate that serious and current future boaters were attracted to the show,” Myers wrote.

“While the boat show’s attendance was only marginally greater than that of 2009’s inaugural show, Myers reports improved revenues from the stunning growth in 2010 vendors,” reads the press release. “Up from 42 last year, this year’s show presented 74 commercial and non-profit vendors and risked outgrowing the facility at Oriental’s Pecan Grove Marina.

“And the attendees who came seem to have been motivated (potential) buyers,” the release noted.

Myers, the Oriental Rotary Club and Pamlico’s Committee of 100 worked with a few key business leaders – specifically Mobile East Marine and Cape Lookout Yacht Sales – to create the momentum to bring the show together.

Although it’s still early, Myers thinks the show will go on in 2011. u

Sam Myers of Oriental Rotary Club

continued on next page

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A Carolina Cruisers Cookbook

There is a new little book on the

market for cruisers. It is a collection of helpful hints and nice, simple recipes. It also happens to have been written by a woman

whose home port is Southport, NC. Jeannette Deale and her husband Bill have been actively cruising for the last eight or so years on their Gulfstar 37.

“Sea Lion”, has taken them north to New England and south to the Carib-bean. They have been exploring the Dominican Republic for the last couple of years where she has taken the time to compile her accumulated cruising wisdom into a book.

Within the pages of Simply Simple Solutions she now shares with others what she has learned along the way. Colorful cover art opens to fifty pages of assorted hints and recipes for sailors and their boats. Time and money saving tips on boat maintenance and quick n’ easy recipes that will never again have you at a loss when it comes to whipping up something for an impromptu get together.

This terrific little book can be pur-chased by contacting her at her web site, www.jeannettedeale.com. uBy Haila Eggleton-MacKay of St. Augustine, FL

According to the U.S. Travel Association, leisure travel is predicted to see modest growth (+2.3 percent) domestically during the 2010 summer season, and more frequent travel is also forecasted (2.1 trips vs. 1.9 trips in the summer of 2009).

Business travel is expected to rise 4.4 percent. Consumer confidence improved in April from 2009 to 2010, and the perceived “money available for travel” increased significantly according to the most recent quarterly survey conducted by the US Travel Association.

Industry data also shows that family trips remain very popular (52 percent), as well as couple trips (26 percent), and girlfriend getaways (10 percent). Airline travel is also expected to pick back up this summer after declining the last two years.

Source: N.C. Department of Commerce

Inland lakesAlong the inland lakes, business is pick-ing up. In many cases, business owners say the local, low-cost family vacation proved attractive. “My marina and restaurant business has seen a nice bump this summer over last,” states Charles Higgins, owner of Buffalo Creek Marina on Lake Murray in Prosperity, SC.

Higgins is also chairman of the board of the Capital City/Lake Murray Country Tourism Board in the Midlands of South Carolina.

But all sectors haven’t made a recovery as new boat sales continue to lag. The houseboat dealership that Higgins owns has taken a big hit since 2008.

“When I bought the dealership in 2008,” explains Higgins, “I had some future sales nearly closed but then credit dried up and those sales went away. And I haven’t been able to get those back because credit is still hard to get.

“We have a bit to go before that opens—hopefully later this year.” u

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My Summer Job:Teaching sailing, creating sailors

School is out! There are a variety of camp options for kids these days, and in my opinion there is no better way

to spend your summer than on the water. I grew up sailing on the Chesapeake Bay, mostly cruising with the family and then being shipped to sleep away sailing camp. After several years of sailing camp at St. Marys College, I was hooked. I attended Washington College in Maryland and sailed on the Varsity Team for four years. Every summer I would pick a new yacht club and head that way to teach sailing for three months. Not a bad way to make a living while making new friends and doing something I love.

Following college I moved to Charles-ton, SC and I am very fortunate to share my passion for sailing with the youth of Charleston as a career.

From what I can see, youth sailing is growing. What do I do you ask?

I run a non-profit organization called Charleston Community Sailing. We pro-vide access, facilities and sailing instruction to anyone, regardless of socioeconomic background, skill level or physical abil-ity. Our purpose is to engage the lives of children, ages 8 -18 years old in unique learning experiences through innovative programs to build character and promote a healthy spirit, mind and body.

A majority of our instruction is youth

based but we also offer adult sailing classes. We have some strong community partner-ships with Charleston County Parks & Recreation Commission, Special Olympics South Carolina, Boys & Girls Club of the Trident Area and 9 area high schools. This summer we partnered up with Charleston Yacht Club to run the largest youth sailing program in town. We have a fleet of Van-guard 420’s, Optimists and through a grant at the National Sailing Program Symposium we currently have a fleet of Open Bics. We’ve got our hands full with close to 50 boats and for our summer programs we have 200-plus kids.

Kids racing sailboats? After kids learn the basics of sailing,

next they naturally want to learn how to race. Competition can be healthy right? At the age of eight, you have your Begin-ner Racer sailing in Opti Green who can be coached around the course. Once you win your first Green event, you progress to White (10 and under), Blue (11 and 12) and then finally to Red (13-15). When you hit 15 you’re done with the Opti, and you move onto a 420, Sunfish or Laser.

Summertime is an ideal time to get your new sailor out racing the interest is there. The water is warm and summer open regat-tas are just plain fun. I love the competitive side of sailboat racing, and my current boat of choice is a Melges 24. Sailboat racing is addictive and can be a huge rush, but not all sailors want to race.

That is one great thing about adding the Open Bics to our fleet at Charleston Community Sailing – for the kids who may not want to race and just have fun the Bic is a great option. One of the most important things when instructing youth is to keep it fun!

Once your kid is hooked on sailing and summer comes to an end, check with your school and see if they have a sailing team. If no team is in place, consider starting a club sailing team. Currently, at Charleston Community Sailing we have nine high school teams who sail 420’s, seven days a week out of our facility. Teams compete against each other at local events and travel all around the Southeast.

How can you get involved in sailing?Check out local community sailing

centers and your area yacht clubs. Most yacht club summer sailing programs are open to all youth so don’t think you need to be a member to sail. Many of these organizations are run by volunteers so there is always a way to help whether it be on water or land.

Sailing is a lifelong activity and helps build self-esteem and self-confidence. Young sailors learn about water safety; how wind and weather affects sailing skills and develop a sincere appreciate for the water. Sailing is not just for the elite- it is for EVERYONE! See you on the water. u

Jessica E. Koenig is the Executive Director of Charleston Community Sailing, Charleston, SC. www.charlestoncommunitysailing.org; 843-607-4890; http://www.facebook.com/charlestoncommunitysailing

July through Labor Day Racing CalendarJuly 9-11 Rocket Regatta (CYFC)July 10-11 Firecracker Regatta (SYC)July 10-11 U.S. Sailing Men’s Area D

Championships (ChYC)July 17-18 Water Festival Regatta (BYSC)July 17-18 Windmill Championships (LLSC)July 24-25 Spar Wars (SCYC)July 31-Aug. 1 Carolina Yacht Club Regatta (CYC-SC)July 31-Aug. 1 Diva Day Ladies Regatta (WCSC)Aug. 5-6 SAYRA Team Racing Juniors (CYC-NC)Aug. 7-8 SAYRA Open Invitation (CYC-NC)Sept. 4, 5 Labor Day Regatta (LNYC)Sept. 5 Michelob Ultra Regatta, New Bern

(NYRA)

Club Abbreviations

www.sayra-sailing.com

AYC Atlanta Yacht ClubBSC Blackbeard Sailing ClubBYSC Beaufort Yacht & Sailing

Club, SCCFYC Cape Fear Yacht ClubCORA Charleston Ocean Racing

AssnChYC Charleston Yacht ClubCSC-SC Lake Murray Yacht Racing

Association

CYC-NC Carolina Yacht Club (NC)CYC-SC Carolina Yacht Club (SC)LLSC Lake Lanier Sailing ClubLMSC Lake Murray Sailing ClubLNYC Lake Norman Yacht ClubNYRA Neuse Yacht Racing

AssociationSCYC South Carolina Yacht ClubWCSC Western Carolina Sailing

Club

Jessica E. Koenig

http://www.sayra-sailing.com/


A racing addict’s message: Eastern NC clubs can get you on board

I ’m a racing addict

I got my first sailboat when I was eight. My dad bought two very used and very worn-out wooden prams from Camp Don-Lee, and my sister and I learned to sail them on Lake Gaston, where we had a small cabin. If there are two sailboats, there’s always a race, and for us every outing turned into an intense sibling rivalry race. Just so you know, these prams were about 8 eight feet long, made out of plywood, and cat-rigged. You sat on the bottom and sailed with one hand. You used the other hand to bail. And you’d better not stop bailing! I moved up to sail a Snark, Sunfish, Tanzer, Flying Scot and other small boats while in high school and col-lege. After college I was introduced to big boat sailing at Little Washington. That first race was a night race out of Bath. I was hooked! In 1982 I bought a C&C 27, fully loaded with racing equipment and sails. In 1993 I upgraded to a C&C 35 so I could extend my racing to most of Coastal North Carolina.

There are so many racing opportunities in North Carolina that the hardest thing to do is pick out which regattas to do. I could race every weekend year round and during the summer throw in some Wednesday and Friday racing.

I start each year racing the Pamlico Sailing Club’s spring series. It’s five week-ends of round-the-buoys-racing against J boats, Thompson, Lindenbergs, all boats that can be a big boat’s worst nightmare. This series gets me, my boat, and crew ready to wander into other waters to hunt for silver.

I start by looking South for regattas where there’s good competition. In years past, I’ve hit the Leukemia Cup sponsored by the Cape Fear Yacht Club, followed by

the offshore race from Wrightsville Beach to Beaufort, sponsored by the Wrights-ville Beach Ocean Racing Association. A must do each year is the North Carolina Offshore Championship Regatta, raced offshore between Beaufort and Cape Lookout on Memorial Day weekend. It brings racers from surrounding clubs vying to be the best of the best.

As I return to the Pamlico, I prepare for my favorite race of the year, the Ocracoke Regatta, the longest running big boat regatta in North Carolina. We anchor or raft-up at Indian Island, wake to a 8am start and head out to see what the Pamlico Sound has in store for us this year.

The Neuse River is a prime target for silver in the summer. There are half a dozen of PHRF sailing clubs in the mighty Neuse. If you like racing Jib and Main, then you will get more than enough competition. You’ll also run into the dreaded PHRF beaters, the San Juan 21s. The regatta choices are endless. Oriental Cup, Dragon’s Breath, Hancock Regatta, Michelob Cup. Whew!

Fall takes me back to my home port in the Pamlico for another Pamlico Sailing Club series. Five more weekends, racing those little speed demons. Now for another big decision, do I hop to the Neuse and race the winter series or give the boat a rest.

For anyone wanting to race or crew on a race boat, contact any of the dozen or so clubs in Eastern NC. It’s not only hardcore racing. Many regattas have cruising classes and even just party classes. Besides PHRF racing, there are one-design racing for Sunfish, Lasers, San Juan 21s, and others. If you want to do some racing, I guarantee that eastern North Carolina has what you are looking for. u

Mark Baldridge is the Commodore of the Pamlico Sailing Club. He keeps his boat, The Edge, in Broad Creek in the Pamlico River.

Michelob regatta returns to the Neuse

Mark Baldridge

One of North Carolina’s historic regattas returns to New Bern this year during Labor Day weekend to help the city celebrate its 300th anniversary. The Neuse Yacht Racing Association (NYRA) ,which organizes the event, announced that is has secured Michelob Ultra as the title sponsor.

The Neuse River’s most successful and historic regatta was last held in 2002. Through the years, however, the regatta has been a major waterfront event for New Bern. In 1987, 166 boats participated.

Registration will be limited to the first 150 boats entries received. The Neuse Yacht Racing Assocation encourages early entries. Full details and the “Notice of Race” form can be downloaded at http://mich-nyra.org/.

Schedule of Events:Friday, September 3, 20107:00 pm Welcome Dinner and Late Registration

Fairfield Harbour – Red Sail Park

Saturday, September, 4th9:00 am Competitors Meeting (Oar Race)

Northwest Creek Marina 11:00 am John Walsh Memorial Oar Race

(New Bern to Oriental)6:00 pm “Shrimp Bucket” Social and Shore Party

Oriental Marina

Sunday, September 5th8:15 am Competitors Meeting (Michelob Ultra Regatta)

Oriental Marina10:00 am Michelob Ultra Regatta (Oriental to New Bern)5:30 pm Oktoberfest “Beergarden” Shore Party and

Awards Ceremony – New Bern Farmers’ Market

http://www.mich-nyra.org

The bustling downtown of Beaufort, NC offers boaters a wide range of shops, galleries and eateries sure to please.


Magnet for mariners

Destination Beaufort, NC

Colonial heritage thrives in beautiful Beaufort

Born as a bustling colonial seaport, Beaufort, N.C. has nurtured its maritime heritage to become a

haven for sailors and boaters.Through the centuries, the third-oldest

town in North Carolina has remained one of the coast’s most popular ports of call. While Front Street once opened to a work-ing waterfront where tall ships offloaded cargo, it still invites dockside mariners to seek provisions at restaurants, shops and amenities that tempt all who walk along the waterfront.

Even the nearby N.C. Maritime Museum heralds the old town’s historic connection with the water.

“It’s like a small Charleston in some ways,” says Carol Lohr, executive director of the Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority. “I mean that respectfully, of course. But when you combine Beaufort’s history, relatively small size and the charm that’s been carefully preserved, you have a very special town.”

The twin forces of history and geography – including the practical appeal of Beaufort Inlet and navigable Taylor Creek – have made the port a mariner’s choice since the

tall ships first sailed the Carolina coast.“The seagoing yacht captains know

about Beaufort and make plans to dock here,” Lohr added. “Because the port is centrally located between New York and Miami, it’s become a mid-point destination for large yacht traffic. Beaufort is one of their favorite destinations. And you fre-quently see those yachts on the waterfront.”

The mix of large and small craft and the sailors who pilot them create a diverse and vibrant waterfront community. From the weekend sailor to the seagoing captain, from the Intracoastal cruiser to the couple setting sail for vacation, Beaufort’s water-front remains a magnet for mariners.

The late CBS anchor Walter Cronkite visited with his boat, “The News.” Even

This 1967 English Double-Decker, 6-cylinder diesel bus is used for tours of the historic district. It was purchased in 2007 to replace a 1948 English double-decker. This bus served the citizens of London for many years.

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media celebrity Geraldo Rivera also kept his boat in Beaufort, according to the his-torical society.

History beckons, too, from the old burying grounds dating to the early 1700s to the hanging tree near the courthouse square to the many historic homes on the his-torical society’s tour, each with its distinctive story.

Beaufort has always been known as a gateway to the Caribbean – a navigation fea-ture that still brings sailors into port to prepare for the trip – and the town’s architecture was heavily influenced by Caribbean preferences for wide, airy porches and white paint.

“Caribbean influences have been a major factor in Beaufort,” said Patricia Suggs, executive director of Beaufort Historic Sites. “The early sailors who visited here brought ideas, products and techniques from the islands and now the modern trav-elers often begin their voyages here.”

Historical tourism is a powerful draw in Beaufort, says Suggs, who helps promote the town’s rich past. But she also sees new economic energy along the waterfront and throughout the community.

Maintaining Beaufort’s historic charm has been the responsibility of the Beaufort

continued on next page

“One of the exciting additions

is The Boathouse at Front

Street Village – a state-of-

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facility offering space for

230 boats up to 44 feet, a

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Beaufort is at the midway point between Maine and Miami on the Intracoastal Waterway, making it a favorite port-of-call along the eastern seaboard.

Destination


Historic Preservation Committee, which has preserved many features as close as possible to the condition and appearance since its 1709 founding. Beaufort buildings are constructed almost entirely of wood. Only two brick buildings exist – Odd Fellows Lodge and the town jail – and both date back to the Civil War. No stone buildings exist.

“Beaufort has so many attractions,” Suggs says. “You can ride our double-decker London tour buses or ride a bicycle on the waterfront. A boater can walk or cycle to almost everything in town. That’s part of our distinction.”

One of the exciting additions is The Boathouse at Front Street Village – a state-of-the-art indoor boat storage facility offering space for 230 boats up to 44 feet, a complete ship’s store, and easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway by way of Taylor Creek.

The Boathouse features 19th Century architecture created to fit with Beaufort’s distinguished nautical heritage, while meeting NC Green Marina standards, and maintaining optimal environ-mental protection and energy conservation.

“The Boathouse is bringing much needed boat storage to Carteret County,” says Joyce Ross, Sales and Project Coordinator at The Boathouse. “But this project also brings jobs and opportu-nities to the residents of area. We’re proud to be playing a part in adding to the stability of the local economy and to the measured growth of Beaufort as a whole.” u

Third oldest town in North CarolinaBeaufort is the third oldest town in North Carolina. It was established in 1709 and incorporated in 1722. Bath is the oldest town in the state and Edenton is the second oldest. In the early 1700’s the Lords Proprietors of England, who were the rulers of the Carolina Colony, decided that this portion of the Atlantic coast was a suitable location for a seaport. Land was sold to several developers. Eventually Robert Turner purchased 100 acres of land for the development of a port of entry.

Turner laid Beaufort out in two sections: Old Towne and New Towne. He named Beaufort for Henry Somerset, who was the Duke of Beaufort and also one of the Lords Propri-etors of the Carolina Colony.

continued from previous page

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Don’t you just love technological advancements? Each week I am able to e-mail this column to the

publications in which it appears. Even the U.S. Coast Guard distributes things weekly via e-mail. Local Notices to Mariners is a good example. At one time those notices were sent at no charge to mariners through the U.S. Postal Service.

First, lets talk about what we mean by a the term “Local Notices to Mariners.” Lo-cal Notices to Mariners (LNM) were pub-lished monthly and included a supplement that was published weekly. That amounted to a weekly publication. Eventually they changed it to a weekly publication. Some of the information in the LNM involves permanent changes on our waterways, such as the movement of a buoy or dayboard, or the addition of a new light.

The “Local Notices to Mariners” system changed a few years ago and those notices are now posted on the Internet. They are also e-mailed to those mariners that request them. They are no longer available through what we now call “snail” mail.

Local Notices to Mariners also involve temporary issues, such as a light structure being demolished by a vessel, or damage to an aid to navigation (buoy, dayboard, etc.) by a storm. The weekly publica-tion schedule keeps mariners abreast of temporary issues. Problems are listed when such discrepancies are discovered, and a notation is also made when those problems are resolved.

Other things in the Local Notices to Mariners include the schedules for dredg-ing operations and construction projects along or in our waterways. They may include anything else that is of concern to mariners, or that may present an impedi-ment to navigation.

Some items in the LNM should be used to update your navigation charts. Permanent changes will eventually show up on the next chart publication for the area. In the mean time, you can keep track of such changes by notations on your existing charts. It is also wise to print the notices

out and keep them onboard as a reference for additional detail.

The revision date on your navigation chart is an indication of how current it is. You will find that date in the lower left corner of each chart. All information in the Local Notices to Mariners up to a chart’s revision date is included on that chart. You can discard old LNM up to the date of your new chart and start accumulating them from the chart revision date forward.

A few years ago the Coast Guard decided not to mail the “printed” copy of the Local Notices to Mariners any longer. The LNMs are on the Internet and can be viewed or printed out from there. They will also e-mail them to you as they are posted to the Internet.

For information on the e-mail LNM Subscription Service, go to www.navcen.

uscg.gov/lnm/listserver.htm (you can also sign up there). LNMs will be e-mailed to you automatically as new information is posted.

In late August of 2005, the system changed from a monthly notice with weekly supplements to a weekly notice. The weekly notices include the full detail that was in the monthly notices. So get yourself signed up! It’s a great way to keep current. You’ll be glad you did!

Until next time, I wish you clear skies, fair winds and calm seas! uCaptain Larry Walker is the president of World Wide Marine Training, Inc., a U.S. Coast Guard Approved facility authorized to give examinations for captain’s licenses up to 200 Ton Master, Able Sea-man up to Unlimited, STCW-95, Radar, ARPA and other Endorsements (www.fromthehelm.com)

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Maritime Business BriefsTowing, marine assistance Calls jump by 19 percent During the July 4 holiday weekend, the world’s largest marine assistance organi-zation reported a 19-percent increase in marine assistance calls during the four-day Fourth of July weekend compared to the same period in 2009.

The increase in assistance activity was due largely to excessive heat blanketing much of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. The heat drove more boaters to the water, according to Sea Tow Services, Inc., which reported the increase.

The increase in calls for tows and as-sistance during the holiday marked the second year in a row for increases during the Fourth of July weekend.

Sea Tow executives also expressed hope that increases in towing and assistance over both July Fourth and Memorial Day pointed toward an increasing overall activ-ity for the marine industry.

Charleston, S.C. was among the five regions reporting the highest incidence of assistance calls.

North Carolina ranks fourth in Top-10 states for boating spendingNorth Carolina ranked fourth among the top-ten boating states, ranked in order by

total annual expenditures for new power-boats, motors, trailers and accessories in 2009, according to the National marine Manufacturers’ Association. Spending in North Carolina totaled $395 million, ac-cording to the association.

Lake Norman was named the North Carolina hot spot. Just north of Charlotte, Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in the Carolinas at 34 miles long, boasting 520 miles of shoreline. This popular boating destination provides year-around water access with boating activities of all types for novices and experienced captains, plus chartered cruises for those just looking to take in the scenery. The top ten included:

1. Florida ($1.2 billion) 2. Texas ($906 million) 3. California ($417 million) 4. North Carolina ($395 million) 5. New York ($381 million) 6. Louisiana ($370 million) 7. Washington ($339 million)8. Delaware ($330 million)9. Michigan ($317 million) 10. Minnesota ($305 million)

Bank of America discontinues indirect Retail loans through marine dealersCharlotte-based Bank of America has dis-continued indirect retail lending through marine dealers as of May 17, according to a spokesman. However, the company insisted it remains committed to the industry.

The spokesman said the bank is “not exiting retail financing of marine products.” However, indirect retail lending through marine dealers has ended. The spokesman said the bank will continue to offer direct consumer financing on marine products online at www.bankofamerica.com.

The company will “continue to offer wholesale, or floor plan, financing to ma-rine dealers,” according to the spokesman.

The change does not affect Bank of America’s origination process for auto or RV dealers.

Wells Fargo analyst predicts ‘Best-case’ peak in 2014-15In a recent research report, Analyst Tim Conder of Wells Fargo predicts a best-case scenario of peak cyclical marine industry retail demand will be evident in 2014/2015. The report was cited in Boating Industry newsletter.

Conder’s report reads: “Given that (1) Retail credit availability/affordability has only modestly improved YTD, (2) Weaken-ing U.S. consumer confidence/broad retail trends, (3) Uncertain sustainability of Eu-ropean demand coupled w/ adverse FX, (4) Impact that expiring Bush tax cuts/Obama care taxes will have on demand for 35’+ boats ($250K+ income customer), and (5) Gulf oil spill, we believe a best case scenario of peak cyclical industry retail demand is now in 2014/2015 and ~180-200K units.”

Conder predicts 2010 will be down 10 to 15 percent with 10 percent annual growth in 2011-15.

Scout Boats doubles dealer rosterSummerville, South Carolina-based Scout Boats Inc. (www.scoutboats.com) nearly doubled its dealer roster when the manu-facturer signed up a half dozen more retail-ers. The company said it has picked up over 13 new dealers in 2010. The latest group

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Ocean Conservancy sets Volunteer clean-up dateOn September 25, 2010, Ocean Con-servancy will activate the world’s largest volunteer network for ocean, lakes, and rivers through the 25th annual Interna-tional Coastal Cleanup. What began as a local beach cleanup in Texas has grown into a global movement of ocean conserva-tion and we invite your readers to join us. Just last year, more than 500,000 volunteers from more than 100 countries gathered

together to remove over seven million pounds of marine debris.

But they don’t just remove trash and debris – they record data on every piece of trash they find helping Ocean Conservancy develop the world’s only global snapshot of what is trashing our ocean and waterways. Beginning in early August, your readers can search for cleanup sites near them by zip code or hometown from our homepage: www.oceanconservancy.org.

Ocean Conservancy has posted the findings from last year’s Cleanup along with graphics and photos from around the world at www.oceanconservancy.org/press_icc. n Ocean Conservancy can also provide:n A breakdown of ICC statistics from all

participating states,n A breakdown of all the countries that

took part and the data they compiled,n Interviews and quotes from ICC coor-

dinators,n And timely information on why water-

front cleanups are especially important in light of recent developments like the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster.

Small boat sales leading recovery For recreational boating industryThe recreational boating industry trade group, National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and the industry’s national consumer awareness program, Discover Boating, report an improving trend in small aluminum boat sales. These boats are typically purchased by first-time boaters for fishing and navigating small lakes and rivers.

First quarter 2010 data from NMMA shows a slowing in sales declines of new powerboats – down 12 percent compared to a decline of 35 percent during the first quarter 2009. Leading this recovery are small aluminum outboard boats. Sales of new aluminum powerboats in the 18 foot range increased 30 percent during the first quarter 2010. Approximately 75 percent of the powerboat market is made up of out-board boats and an estimated 50 percent of outboard boats are aluminum. This increase in aluminum boat sales provides an early indicator that a recovery in new boat sales is coming. u

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Every now and then, the planets are in alignment and a club cruise comes off without a hitch. Five

years ago, it happened to a dozen boats on a cruise to Edenton. We were lucky enough to be the cruise captains on this trip taken by the Sailing Club of Oriental (SCOO). The cruise was wonderful because of the weather and the itinerary and not due to any action on our part.

The fleet left Oriental bound for Eden-ton with stops planned along the way. The first night set the tone for the rest of the trip as we were treated to a spectacular sun-set at the entrance to the Alligator –Pungo Canal. The next day the group had the first of many shore side cocktail parties; this one was at the Alligator River Marina and was followed by an on-site dinner ably handled by owner Wanda and staff.

The next day dawned with perfect conditions for a sail west on the Albemarle Sound. Instead of the often present chop, the entire fleet was wing on wing—what a sight! Several of the boats were having so much fun that they continued beyond the planned stop at Columbia. The rest of us went up the beautiful Scuppernong River and on into the town. With a combination of anchoring and rafting on the free mu-nicipal dock, we were able to accommodate everyone. The arrival of the fleet caused

a stir in town and we were treated like royalty. The town itself provided a chance to stretch our legs on tree lined streets, educate ourselves at the Visitors Center with its boardwalk through the swamp, and patronize local businesses with an emphasis on the bakery and ice cream shop.

From here, we departed for our des-tination, the lovely town of Edenton. Here we again were able to use the free municipal docks located in the heart of the town. Edenton has much to offer the visiting cruiser and this group took full advantage of the choices. We took tours of the historic district, dined at many of the restaurants, visited the Chowan Arts Council Gallery and perused the stores in town. One of nightly gatherings was held in a most unique spot---the upper porch of the Barker House. The setting was a perfect end to the group time together; from there, some of us headed home and others went up the Dismal Swamp Canal and spent some time on the Chesapeake. u

Mary Ann Parham moved to Oriental, NC from Atlanta, GA over 10 years ago. She and her husband, Doug Sligh, enjoy sailing and cruising on Calcula-tion, a Bristol 35.5.

The planets align: a cruise comes together perfectlyBy Mary Ann Parham of the Oriental Sailing Club

PHoTo BY MAGGIE ARNdT

PHoTo BY GEoRGE duFFIE

PHoTo BY douG SLIGH

Share your stories from the water

Carolina Currents begins a regular

feature publishing short pieces

from sailors and boaters sharing

their stories from the water. We

welcome adventures, discover-

ies and interesting tales – and

any article that celebrates the

excitement and appeal of the

water. our readers stretch from

Nags Head to Hilton Head along

the coast and from Columbia to

Raleigh inland.

We want your stories from

any destination in our expansive

territory.

Send your contribution to

[email protected].

While we cannot promise to

publish all of them, we’ll publish

several articles and photos each

issue.

These articles will lead our

transition to a blogging platform

at www.carolinacurrents.com.

Your Voices from the Waterfront


Life on inland lake: tooling around historic Lake Murray By Alan Middleton of Chapin, S.C.

Springtime on Lake Murray is like a bride in her wedding gown—all dressed up waiting for the graceful

ritual. During summer the lake is brim-ming with boaters and sun worshipers looking to take advantage of the crown jewel in South Carolina’s rich inland lakes system.

My family has lived on this lake for 10 years. Lake living is a rich experience, whether you enjoy swimming, boating, ski-ing, sun bathing, or just chilling. Both our daughters learned to ski on Lake Murray; my oldest daughter loves to bowfish, and is quite the deer hunter.

The 50,000-acre lake was originally constructed in the 1930’s as a hydroelectric generating facility. The area comes alive in early March with local and national fishing tournaments and doesn’t nap until Thanks-giving as the cool air rolls in. Even through the winter holidays we enjoy 60-degree days perfect for a quick boat ride. The region is home to some of the best bass fishing in the nation.

A boat trip from the dam—up until a few years ago the largest earthen dam in the world—will take you by Bomb Island, also called Doolittle Island, named for the Jimmy Doolittle Raiders who practiced simulated bombing runs there in 1943.

Doolittle’s Raiders were based at nearby Lexington County Army Air base. Records show that five bombers crashed into the lake as they made their WWII bomb runs. Three were immediately recovered and at least one remained at the bottom of the lake until 2005 when a salvage operation brought up a nearly pristine B-25 bomber that is now under restoration.

Bomb Island has another distinction quite unlike anywhere else in North Amer-ica. It’s home, from June to early Septem-ber, to an annual gathering of nearly a mil-lion Purple Martins each evening. Bomb Island is known as the largest roosting site in North America for the tiny birds. On summer evenings dozens of boaters roost just offshore to watch an amazing dance that thrills onlookers. The Purple Martins will come from all parts of the lake and surrounding area in late evening and roost in the trees for a few moments. They then fly in a crazed-coordinated ritual around the island for a few minutes and perch back into the trees.

Once you leave Bomb Island and head up to Big Gap you can either stop off for a round of golf or dine at the Timberlake Country Club and Marina, or float in your watercraft and watch the Osprey feed and teach their young. My family has done the

latter many times during the spring and summer with our great friend Sadie—a Great Dane who loved to ride starboard in the pontoon and take in the sights.

Just a stone’s throw from Big Gap is Dreher Island State Park, where the campgrounds are full during the summer with thrill seekers. If you plan ahead for it, you can catch the best and largest annual fireworks show in South Carolina on or near July 4th.

Hundreds of boats view the display up close but you can find several vantage points along the lake to take in the sky show. Or you can reverse course and go to Spence Island where the fireworks show is done in concert with Dreher Island. We have done both and it is a great experience. Scores of boaters participate in the annual patriotic boat parade and competition earlier in the day. Boaters from all around the lake decorate their craft to celebrate Independence Day and crown a winner.

About a 30-minute pontoon ride up from Big Gap and Dreher Island towards the western end of the lake in Prosperity is one of the best places to eat on Lake Murray—especially weekends. The Buffalo Creek Grill serves up an awesome break-fast buffet. Their prices are reasonable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But my family has always enjoyed an early morning boat ride to Buffalo Creek for a quintessential southern breakfast.

Our joy on the water is a commonplace, every-day experience for those of us who enjoy the inland lakes. They offer a distinc-tive source of enjoyment on the water and they have become a source of entertain-ment for my family – and thousands of others – and have veven greater potential as an inland destination. Lake Murray is truly a Southern gem. uAlan Middleton and his family life and boat on Lake Murray in South Carolina.

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Index to advertisersFrom Nags Head to Hilton Head on the Atlantic, from Columbia to Raleigh on the inland lakes, Carolina Currents is the only print and web-based media source focused solely on the sailing, boating and coastal businesses of North and South Carolina. The magazine is available free in more than 700 businesses and community locations six times a year.

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the boater’s first choice252.757.BOAT (2628)

wholesale prices • fast delivery • huge selection of marine & fishing accessories

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708 Broad St. ~ P.O. Box 814Oriental, NC 28571

New and quality used marine equipment sold on consignment

[email protected]

capefearsailingacademy.com

Unit 1600 West Brunswick St

We can turn your marine items into CASH!Why Pay Retail?252-249-3222

708 Broad St. ~ P.O. Box 814Oriental, NC 28571

New and quality used marine equipment sold on consignment

[email protected]

Counteracts the drying effects of saltand sun on your hair and skin.

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P.O.Box575RichlandsNC28574

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THE SAILBOAT COMPANYDealer for Com-Pac Yachts

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the boaterʼs fi rst choice252.757.BOAT (2628)

wholesale prices • fast delivery • huge selection of marine & fi shing accessories

4117 Old Cherry Point RoadNew Bern, NC 28560

252-633-4804 Cell: 670-1201

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Landlubbers Welcome!

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The Lake Murray region is just beginning to dig out from under economic downturn of 2008-09

and we see good signs on many fronts. But it has been a difficult time – over the past several years, we’ve faced many economic challenges.

The recession was preceded by a severe state drought from 2007-2008 and the drastic lowering of lake levels to construct a new Federal Energy Resource Com-mission-mandated $275 million backup dam in 2002-2005. The area has had its economic challenges the last few years to say the least.

But 2010 is shaping up to be a better season than last year, aided by plenty of rainfall this spring and opening of consum-er wallets to some degree. We are seeing that families are staying closer to home. While that may not benefit other vacation spots within the state or nationwide, we are seeing an uptick in activity at businesses supported by Lake Murray.

South Carolina’s rich natural re-

sources are crucial to statewide economic development and contribute nearly $30 billion annually and about 230,000 jobs to the state’s economy. Lake Murray is an important part of that equation. When built more than 80 years ago, the lake began as a source for hydropower production. The host utility, South Carolina Electric &

Gas, now uses the power plant as a backup for emergencies or peak power produc-tion. That has take place gradually over the years, but what has emerged from that is an economic powerhouse that has become a major recreation area and abundant source of drinking water in the Columbia metro-politan area.

Over the past few years there has been consolidation in the boat building business in the state but the industry remains viable with future deliveries on the rise. New boat sales around the lake still lag, but used boat sales are solidly improving. Marinas are seeing more volume in 2010 and the restaurants around the lake are seeing increased business as well – another indica-tion that families staying closer to home.

I have personally seen an increase in sales at my Buffalo Creek Marina and Grill as many first-time visitors tell me they are discovering new areas around the lake because they plan less highway travel this summer. And Dreher Island State Park is seeing a strong sales season in 2010. We

receive some of their overflow and that business has been brisk.

The once more than robust real estate boom in and around Lake Murray is recov-ering as well. Realtors are seeing increased activity as consumers come back into the marketplace. Slower growth was inevitable and a benefactor of that is a slowdown in shoreline development—something that our Capital City/Lake Murray Country Board has tried to balance.

But we also support sustained and thoughtful lake development and work extremely hard with local developers, political leaders and other associations to accomplish a balance between a strong lake economy and environmental stewardship.

Capital City/Lake Murray Country, one of the state’s eleven tourism regions, is charged with promoting tourism in Lexington, Newberry, Richland and Saluda Counties. When Bobby Long and I started this group nearly 30 years ago our goal was to stimulate economic development in the region, promote and provide recre-ational opportunities around the lake, and to endorse cost-effective environmental initiatives to protect the area’s rich wildlife and fisheries habitat. We believe that we have, along with several other local associa-tions and chambers of commerce, helped to build Lake Murray as one of the best recreational areas that the Carolinas have to offer. uCharles Higgins, a marina owner, houseboat dealer and businessman, is chairman of the board of Capital City/Lake Murray Country. He lives in Prosperity, SC.

Business coming back at inland lakesThe view from Lake Murray

Charlie Higgins

www.cafeonwaterst.com

★ “Rugged and Practical, Simple and Sensible”

Mobile East Marine13398 Hwy 55 E.Alliance, NC 28509252-745-5615 [email protected]

To Get Started, Contact:

The Perfect Getaway

Always wear a personal � otation device while boating and read your owner’s manual. 2008 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

www.mobileeastmarine.com

Documents

Carolina Currents July-August 2010