your life on the Crystal Coast

MARCH / APRIL 2015

FREE! TAKE ONE!

LOOK INSIDE FOR FUN & FREE

ON THE CRYSTAL COASTMID–MARCH THROUGH

MID–APRIL

THINGSTO DO

page 10

‘JAWS’ BOAT TO VISIT

The Legendary Cricket II

FUN ON THE WATER

Fishing & Diving Our Coast

SOUTHERN GARDENING

LOCAL WILDLIFE

POSTER CONTEST

Stop & Smell The Roses!

Otters Just Wanna Have Fun!

Calling All Artists!

NEXT TO EL’S DRIVE-IN • ARENDELL STREET • MOREHEAD CITY

252-240-1313 Lunch, Dinner & Kids Menu All Day!

Sports in the Boat Bar!

THE LARGEST GLUTEN-FREE MENU ON THE CRYSTAL COAST! 23 ITEMS!

HOME OF THE CRYSTAL COAST STEAM POT!

CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK FOR WEEKLY & WEEKEND SPECIALS!

LIVE MUSIC | KARAOKE | SPORTSGOOD FOOD, GOOD FRIENDS, GREAT TIMES!

snapperzsteambar.com

TUESDAY NIGHTSCHOOSE 1 OF 4 APPETIZERS TO

ACCOMPANY YOUR

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT

CRAB LEGS

NOW SERVING

FRESH LOCAL

OYSTERS

PLANTING BEDS • PATIOS, WALKS, DRIVES FIRE PITS • RETAINING & SEATING WALLS DECKS, ARBORS, FENCES, PERGOLAS IRRIGATION • LANDSCAPE LIGHTING SOD INSTALLATION • SPECIAL PROJECTSETHNIC GARDENS • STONE

4778 Highway 24 East • Newport

3/14 • Caring for RosesExpert David Johnson will teach you how to care for your favorite roses.

3/21 • Camellia Care with LannyCaring for camellias has never been easier! Let Lanny, an expert grower, show you how to care for them.

3/28 • Easter Bunny EggstravaganzaEgg Hunt around the gardens at 10:30 am is free for kids of all ages! The Easter Bunny will be there!

4/4 • All About BirdsLocal expert Jim Craig will be teaching us all about the birds in our area and how to identify them as well as help them this season!

Every other weekend in April & May. Follow us on Facebook for more details!

Spring Classes and Events

Live Music In the Garden

All classes begin at 10 a.m. and cost $5 per person. RSVP to 252.393.9004 or email family_fun@carolinahomegarden.com.

2 5 2 . 3 4 2 . 6 0 7 7dreamweddingestates.com

Recently engaged or thinking of your future wedding spot?

DreamMakers offers three stunningly decorated waterfront

plantation-style estates. We also provide design

services, coordination, ceremony & reception

locations on the Crystal Coast.

VISIT US ONLINE AT DREAMWEDDINGESTATES.COMOR FACEBOOK.COM/DREAMMAKERSWEDDINGESTATES

Marry me?

IZZY

HUDG

ENS

PHOT

OGRA

PHY

carol nacarol naW I N E M I X E R

WINE BAR & TAP ROOM

EMERALD PLANTATION • 8700 EMERALD DRIVE • 252.354.3333

CAROLINAWINEMIXER.COM

LARGEST SELECTION OF WINES & CRAFT BEERS IN EMERALD ISLE

Offering a great selection of domestic and international wines by the glass or bottle, as well as local, national and international craft beers by the bottle and on tap.

Well stocked for every occasion.

6 NC CRAFT BEERS ON TAP AND 12 IN ROTATION

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SEATING AVAILABLE

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 5

F E AT U R E S18 The Legendary Cricket II

The legendary Cricket II will make an appearance at the Maritime Museum’s Wooden Boat Show in Beaufort the first weekend in May.

19 Stop and Smell the Roses Carolina Home and Garden in Newport has partnered with Weeks Roses to offer some brand new exciting roses in 2015.

20 Volunteer Training at BHA The Beaufort Historical Association is looking for dedicated folks interested in becoming part of the BHA family of volunteers.

21 Words of Wisdom Local author Aleece Walz’s new book, “Words of Wisdom with the Dalai Mama” is available for sale locally and on Amazon.

22 Ask the Aquarium! We wanted to know if the adorable and unique cuttlefish swam our North Carolina waters, and the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores answered.

23 Calling All Artists! Think you’ve got some artistic talent? Maybe you could use a little money? Enter the Decoy Guild’s 2015 design contest.

24 The Little Mermaid, Jr. Swansboro Middle School’s drama department has taken on the production of The Little Mermaid, Jr., with a huge cast and amazing sets.

25 Otters Just Wanna Have Fun! The North American River Otter has made a comeback in North Carolina, after almost vanishing years ago.

28 Diving Our Coast Check out a couple of our offshore dive sites that make for great winter dive trips: the Schurz and the Proteus, outside Beaufort Inlet.

M I D - M A RC H TO M I D - A PR I L 2 0 1 5

Inside This IssueT H E C RYSTA L C OAST L I F E ST Y L E

19 NEW ROSES on offer for 2015 from Carolina Home and Garden, along with rose class.

25your life on the Crystal Coast

MARCH / APRIL 2015

FREE! TAKE ONE!

LOOK INSIDE FOR FUN & FREE

ON THE CRYSTAL COASTMID–MARCH THROUGH

MID–APRIL

THINGSTO DO

page 10

‘JAWS’ BOAT TO VISIT

The Legendary Cricket II

FUN ON THE WATER

Fishing & Diving Our Coast

SOUTHERN GARDENING

LOCAL WILDLIFE

POSTER CONTEST

Stop & Smell The Roses!

Otters Just Wanna Have Fun!

Calling All Artists!

ON THIS MONTH’S COVERMarch brings with it the first day of spring, and we are ready after this long, cold winter. Look inside for fun, free and fascinating things to do on the Crystal Coast this month!

We’re looking forward to Easter fun next month, and hoping for spring flowers!

The Regulars10 Things to Do 22 Ask the Aquarium: Cuttlefish

25 OWLS: Otters 27 Hooked Up Fishing

28 Diving the Coast 29 Tides

OTTERS JUSTWANNA HAVE FUN!

18 LEGENDARY CRICKET II to visit Beaufort as part of

mission to help wounded vets.

PUBLISHER: Will Ashby

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Chevy Kaylor

C ON T R I BU T I N G W R I T E R SJessica Guesno, Lee Moore, Jeff Cronk, Helen Aitken, Molly West, Linda Bergman–Althouse, Sherry White, Rebecca Fleming, Tom

Hussmann, Sally Steele, Amie Talton, Chris Barnes and Aleece Walz.

E D I TO R IA L S & A D V E RT I S I N GPlease contact the publisher at will@crystalcoastoutdoors.com or

252-723-7628 for ad rates and editorial ideas. Ad and editorial deadline for the Mid-April to Mid-May issue is March 16, 2015.

Email letters to the editor, photos, community listings and articles to will@crystalcoastoutdoors.com. Next issue will

publish April 7, 2015.

From the PublisherThank you for picking up Carolina Salt magazine,

published to depict your life here on the Crystal Coast. All articles are written by locals. We cover a wide range of topics including local history, outdoor sports, wildlife, special events and more. Every month we look to you, our readers, to keep our magazine fresh. If you have

a story to tell, an event to promote, an interesting local photograph or just some good times stories to share, send them our way. Participation is welcomed and appreciated. Reader contributions are the founding

principle of the magazine. We want to be a local resource for you, our readers.

If you like what you see, tell people about it—especially our advertisers. For questions, concerns and more

information about Carolina Salt, send e-mail to will@crystalcoastoutdoors.com or call 252-723-7628.

For up-to-date info, be sure to look us up on Facebook!

PUBLISHED BY CRYSTAL COAST OUTDOORS PUBLICATIONSP.O. Box 572, Morehead City, NC 28557 | 252-723-7628

We Depend On Our Readers!Call 252-723-7628 if you’re interested in

submitting an article or photo. Our local content is what keeps our magazine fresh and relevant.

Free Estimate! 252-727-9040Free Estimate! 252-727-9040www.atlanticbreezestormshutters.com

Atlantic Breeze Storm Shutters is your complete source for a wide variety of storm shutters, security shutters and awnings designed to protect, beautify

and add value to your home or business.

✔PROTECT ✔BEAUTIFY ✔ADD VALUE

NEW LOCATION!3906 ARENDELL STREET • MOREHEAD CITY

Storm Shutters • Awnings • Installation Professional Design

We feel like home.

313 Cedar Street • Beaufort, NC • beaufortharborsuites.com • stay@beaufortharborsuites.com

252-728-3483 ASK ABOUT DIVE PACKAGES • BEAUFORTHARBORSUITES.COM

Comfortable, spacious accommodations for work and play. Queen bedroom /office suites with cable, phone and free high-speed wireless internet.

CALL FOR INFORMATION OR TO INQUIRE ABOUT LUXURY SUITES.

*Call for pricing and availability. Seasonal rates may apply. Scuba and diving packages available.

$8995ROOMSSTARTING AT ONLY

LUXURIOUS QUEEN

CALL TO MAKE ARESERVATION!

*

d i s c o v e r y d i v i n g . c o m252.728.2265

Start as a beginner and graduate as an internationally recognized PADI instructor, ranked number one of the the top ten jobs in the world! Programs begin

every two weeks.

BEGINNER TO INSTRUCTOR SCUBA DIVING PROGRAMS USING YOUR

G.I. BILL!

Go pro! Love your job! Travel!

Great day at the office.

8 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

Join us for breakfast daily starting at 7am

7802 EMERALD DRIVE •EMERALD ISLE •252.354.6592 •VILLAGEMARKETOFEI.COM

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 9

Our burgers are love at

FIRST BITE!

8700 Emerald Drive Unit 16 • Emerald Isle

TRY OUR CERTIFIED ANGUS® CUSTOM GRIND BEEF!

252- 354-3030 • WWW.SHARKSDENSPORTSBAR.COM

Live Music Every Week!

WE OFFER A10% MILITARY

DISCOUNT

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Every Monday NightRIB NIGHTRIB NIGHT

S P O RT S B A R & G

RIL

L

TH

E S

HA

RK’S DEN

S P O RT S B A R &

GRI

LL

TH

E S

HA

RK’S DEN

Visit us on Facebook for entertainment and event updates!EI’S PREMIER SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Every Tuesday NightBONELESS & REGULAR WINGS

DRAFTS

50¢

$250

WING NIGHTWING NIGHT

JOIN

US A

T T

HE 2015 ST. PATRICK’S DAY FEST

IVAL

Join us for breakfast daily starting at 7am

7802 EMERALD DRIVE •EMERALD ISLE •252.354.6592 •VILLAGEMARKETOFEI.COM

1 0 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

T H I N G S T O D O M I D – J A N U A R Y T O M I D – F E B R U A R Y ✪ = F R E E

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

✪ ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVAL on March 14 at the Emerald Plantation

Shopping Center in Emerald Isle. Over 75 arts and crafts vendors and festive

food. For information call 252-354-6350.

ART ON DISPLAY

✪ ART IN MARCH at the Carteret County Public Library in Beaufort features the art of Pat Warnke and

handcrafted jewelry by Willi Foster. For information call 252-728-2050.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

MARCH 14✪ 23rd Annual Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Festival[ 9 AM–6 PM ] At the Emerald Plantation shopping center. Admission and parking are free. Over 75 arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, clowns and displays along with rides, a climbing wall, face painters and other fun, family-oriented activities. As always, the festival will feature delicious foods such as corned beef and cabbage, shrimp burgers, hamburgers and hot dogs and much more. Festival goers can also enjoy a beer garden. The Little Ms. & Mr. Leprechaun Contest will take place on the main stage at 10 a.m. The contest is for boys and girls ages 2–3 and 4–5 with each participant being judged on the creativity of their costume and overall stage presentation. Contest organizers require pre-registration by noon on March 12 and ask that participants be under the main stage’s tent by 9:30 a.m. on the day of the event. Please call 252-354-6350 to register.

MARCH 28✪ Easter Eggs-travaganza[ 9 AM ] Swansboro Parks and Recreation invites kids up to age 12 to join the Easter Eggs-travaganza at Swansboro Municipal Park, 830 Main Street Extension. Bring a camera for photos with the Easter Bunny and don’t forget your basket for egg gathering. Event is free. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

MARCH 28✪ Easter Bunny Eggstravaganza Hunt at Carolina Home & Garden[ 10:30 AM ] Free for kids of all ages! The Easter Bunny will accompany you on an egg hunt around the gardens at Carolina Home and Garden, 4778 Highway 24 in Newport. Call 252-393-9004 for information.

MARCH 29✪ Emerald Isle Easter Egg Hunt[ NOON ] At the Emerald Isle Community Center, 7500 Emerald Drive. Join us at noon for free festivities including sidewalk chalking, face painting, music and more. At 1 p.m. the egg hunting whistle will be blown. Egg hunters ages 4 to 12 should bring their own baskets and arrive prior to 12:45 p.m. Hunters will be divided into three age categories. Prizes will be awarded in each group. Joy the Clown will be present for fun face painting, and the EI Bunny himself will be on hand for photographs and to award the prizes. Everyone is invited!

APRIL 4✪ Beaufort Easter Egg Hunt[ 11 AM ] At the Beaufort Historic Site on the 100 Block of Turner Street. Children ages 7 and younger are welcome to join the fun. Prizes, refreshments and lots of eggs—it’s all free, just bring a basket! For information call 252-728-5225 or visit beauforthistoricsite.org.

ARTS | THEATER

MARCH 2✪ Poetry Reading[ 7–8 PM ] Authors Val Nieman (Blood Clay, Hotel Worthy) and Susan Schmidt (Salt Runs in My Blood, Song of Moving Water) will each read from their award-winning poetry and novel on March 2, 2015 from 7:00 PM-8:00 PM in the Program Room.

MARCH 6–22Go ‘Into the Woods’ at Carteret Community TheatreCarteret Community Theatre is delighted to bring to the stage the original Broadway version of Into the Woods. Show dates are Fridays (8 p.m.), Saturdays (8 p.m.) and Sundays (2 p.m.) from March 6 through March 22. Friday and Saturday at 8:00 p.m. Call 252-497-8919 or visit carteretcommunitytheatre.com for tickets.

CALL 252-241-2175 for a FREE ESTIMATE

CUSTOM HOME THEATERCENTRAL VAC | INTERCOM SYSTEMSIR SURVEILLANCE CAMERA SYSTEMS

✪ = F R E E M I D – J A N U A R Y T O M I D – F E B R U A R Y T H I N G S T O D O

FREE MOVIE

✪ FRIDAY FREE FLICK at the Emerald Isle Community Center at 7 p.m. on March 13. Free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Popcorn and drink for $1.

FREE AT THE LIBRARY

✪ RAINBOW MAGIC FAIRY FUN at the Carteret County Public Library in Beaufort on March 28 from 2–3 p.m. The free program is designed for children up to age 10.

FREE MOVIE NIGHTS

MARCH 13✪ Friday Free Flick: Dolphin Tail 2 [PG][ 7 PM ] At the Emerald Isle Community Center gymnasium, 7500 Emerald Drive. Free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Popcorn and drink for $1. Bring chairs and or blankets, but no outside beverages or snacks.

MARCH 20✪ Friday Movie Mania: The Good Lie [PG-13][ 7:30 PM ] Come relax and unwind with Swansboro Parks and Recreation with a blockbuster movie at the Town Hall Community Room. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

JUST FOR FUN | KIDS

MARCH 6Kids’ Night In, Parents’ Night Out[ 6–8 PM ] Calling all K-to-6th graders! Join Swansboro Parks and Recreation for an evening of fun and creative crafts, games and activities. Dinner and refreshments will be served. Drop the kids off for a safe and fun time while you head out for a fun evening of your own! Space is limited to 12 participants so be sure to pre-register by March 4. Cost is $8 for the first child and $5 for each additional child. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

MARCH 7–APRIL 25Parent–Tot/Preschool Gymnastics[ 9:30 and 10:30 AM ] Parent–tot and preschool gymnastics classes are designed to introduce children to developmental appropriate motor activities that improve gross motor skills and enhance psychomotor development. Each 45

minute class includes a variety of activities, including a warm up with music, a gentle stretch and a variety of gymnastics based activities that include strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. Participants may join the class anytime during the 8-week session (fees will be prorated). Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

MARCH 11✪ Merry Time for Tots: Boats[ 10–11AM ] Preschoolers ages 2–5 and their caregivers will learn to judge different items (cannon balls, toy boats, spoons, etc.) and decide if they will float or sink before testing their hypothesis in a pool of water. Students will also learn about some of the different boats that frequent our coast before making their very own blow boats from kits supplied by the Museum’s Watercraft Center. Free. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. For more information call 252-728-7317, stop by the Maritime Museum in Beaufort at 315 Front Street or visit ncmaritimemuseums.com.

MARCH 28✪ Family Fun at the Library[ 2–3 PM ] Join us for a magical hour of fairy fun, with crafts and stories inspired by the Rainbow Magic Fairies series. This free program is for kids up to age 10. All participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. At the Carteret County Public Library in Beaufort.

HOME & GARDEN

MARCH & APRIL✪ Feel Better with Essential Oils[ 6–7 PM ] The Essential Oils seminar series continues. Drops-ins are welcome. Class is free. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.3/3 ...................................DIY Cleaning Supplies4/7 ....................................Emotional Wellbeing

9106 Coast Guard Road • emerald isle • 252.354.8111OPEN THURSDAY–SUNDAY STARTING AT 4:30

Join Us for Easter BrunchSunday, April 5

Call 252.354.8111 for reservations ☎

1 2 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

T H I N G S T O D O M I D – J A N U A R Y T O M I D – F E B R U A R Y ✪ = F R E E

HOME & GARDEN

SOUTHERN GARDENING classes at Carolina Home and Garden in Newport throughout March and April. Cost is $5 per class. For information call 252-393-9004 or visit them at 4778 Highway 24.

AARP FREE SERVICE

✪ TAX ASSISTANCE sponsored by AARP from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Tuesdays and Saturdays through April 14 at the Carteret County Public Library

in Beaufort. Free.

MARCH & APRILSouthern Gardening Classes[ 10 AM ] All classes cost only $5. At Carolina Home and Garden, 4778 Highway 24 in Newport. Call 252-393-9004 for information.

3/7 ................................. Herb & Veggie Planting3/14 ......................................... Caring for Roses3/21 .............................................Camellia Care4/4 .............................................All About Birds

WINING & DINING

MARCH 21Swansboro Rotary Oyster Roast and Pig-OutThis all-you-can-eat extravaganza takes place at the Rotary Civic Center in Swansboro. Several large screen televisions will be tuned to the NCAA basketball tournament. Advance tickets are $50 ($55 at the door). Tickets for children 15 and younger are $20, available only at the door. Tickets can be purchased from any member of the Swansboro Rotary Club, Darden Insurance, Century 21 Waterway Realty in Swansboro and Eastern Mortgage in Emerald Isle. Diners are reminded to bring an oyster knife and a glove. For more information call 252-354-6636.

MARCH 21Toast of the Coast: Bites & BluesJoin us for the 3rd Annual Kickoff Night for Toast to the Coast restaurant week, Bites and Blues! Visit waterfront restaurants and businesses, tasting delicious bites from each of our participating restaurants as live blues music fills the streets and various stop-off points. Your ticket will be your guide for the night as you check off each bite location and finish the night by voting for your favorite Bite of the Nite, which will determine the overall restaurant winner. Proceeds will go to Carteret Community College culinary program. Tickets are $35 and will be sold at the North Carolina Seafood Festival office at 412-D Evans Street, Morehead City. For additional information call 252-726-6273.

MARCH 20Dinner and a Movie[ 6–7:30 PM ] Join Swansboro Parks and Recreation and Icehouse Waterfront Restaurant for dinner and a movie (The Good Lie) at Town Hall Community Room. Cost is $35 per couple or $20 per person, which includes your meal, movie, popcorn and a drink. Pre-registration and payment required by March 16. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

MARCH 21Core Sound Shrimp-Off[ 5:30 PM ] At the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center, 1785 Island Road, Harkers Island. Featuring the best Core Sound shrimp dishes you’ll ever taste! For more information call 252-728-1500

MARCH 22‘Toast to the Coast’ Restaurant WeekToast to the Coast Restaurant Week is a weeklong celebration of locally owned restaurants throughout Carteret County. There are no tickets involved, simply show up at your favorite participating restaurant and choose to dine from the Toast To The Coast menu. For more information call 252-726-6273

MARCH 27✪ 37th Annual Newport Pig Cookin’ ContestThe USA’s largest whole hog BBQ pig cookin’ invites you to two days of food, fun and springtime celebrations. At Newport Town Park, 200 Howard Boulevard. Crafts, a variety of foods, BBQ plates, funnel cakes, bake sale, amusement rides, live entertainment and more! Free admission. Pig cooking contest with cash prizes! For more information call 252-223-PIGS or visit newportpigcooking.com.

Charleston Park • Swansboro • 910-378-0659info@cirilacothran.com • www.cirilacothran.com

“Big Enough To Serve You,

Small Enough To Know You.” SCAN HERE FOR INFORMATION

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 1 3

✪ = F R E E M I D – J A N U A R Y T O M I D – F E B R U A R Y T H I N G S T O D O

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY

✪ TRAINING SEMINAR at the Beaufort Historic Site on March 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Open to all who are interested in volunteering or leading tours. Call 252-728-5225.

ROBOTICS CLASS

✪ FREE CLASS in Introductory Robotics sponsored by Sylvan Learning Center on March 24 at 5:30 p.m. For information call 910-326-2600 or visit the Swansboro Recreation Center.

HISTORY | EDUCATION

THROUGH APRIL 14✪ Free AARP Tax Assistance[ 8:30 AM–12:30 PM ] Tax assistance will be offered Tuesdays and Saturdays at Carteret County Public Library in Beaufort.

MARCH 9✪ ‘Let’s Talk About It’ at the Library in Beaufort[ 7 PM ] Jose Ocaña of Campbell University will discuss Lisa See’s On Gold Mountain: The One-Hundred Year Odyssey of a Chinese American Family. This is the final session of the winter Let’s Talk About It series, “Exploring the American West.” The event will be held in the Program Room of the Carteret County Public Library in Beaufort.

MARCH 11✪ Brown Bag Gam Free Lunchtime Lectures[ NOON ] Pack a lunch for the Brown Bag Gam during your lunch hour and join us at the museum for a fun and free lecture. A gam is defined as a friendly conversation between whalers or a visit with another ship while at sea. Reservations preferred. For more information call 252-728-7317, stop by the Maritime Museum in Beaufort at 315 Front Street or visit ncmaritimemuseums.com.

3/11 ..........................The Wreck of the Caribsea3/24 ..............................Whales of the NC Coast

MARCH 12✪ Volunteer Training at the Beaufort Historic Site[ 9 AM–4 PM ] Anyone interested in historic preservation and research, student educational programs, driving a double-decker bus, leading tours, retail sales in the gift shop or helping with the many committees that are the backbone of the Association is welcome to attend. For more information call 252-728-5225 or visit beauforthistoricsite.org.

MARCH 12✪ Carteret Chiropractic: Health and Wellness Seminar[ 5:30–6:30 PM ] Beau Willsey, licensed massage therapist, will give a presentation interspersed with live demonstrations of several massage modalities, including Swedish, deep tissue and trigger point. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

MARCH 13, 27Lunch with a Dash of History[ 11:30 AM ] Lunch and a lecture with historian Rodney Kemp. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m.; lecture begins at noon. A donation of $15 includes lunch and lecture ($12 for Historical Society members). For lecture only, cost is $8 for non-members ($5 for members). To guarantee a seat and lunch, make a reservation and pay for your tickets by the Wednesday prior. Call 252-247-7533, ext. 1, or stop by the museum store.

March 13 ........................... Historical MysteriesMarch 27 ...............Language of Carteret County

MARCH 24✪ Free Introductory Robotics Class by Sylvan Learning[ 5:30–6:30 PM ] Sylvan Learning Center will be offering a free one-hour introductory class in Robotics for kids in grades 1–6. Participants will learn to build robots while making new friends, develop new skills and conduct creative exercises with their robots. Pre-registration preferred by March 22. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

MARCH 26CPR and First Aid Class[ 9 AM–1 PM ] American Heart Association CPR Certification provides training on how to correctly perform CPR on adults, children and infants as well as basic first aid. All students must pre-register. Certification class fee is $34, but no textbook is required. You must pre-register and

V

www.churchwells.com

VERANDA SQUARE7901 Emerald Drive, Suite 6

1-800-846-1961 • 252-354-7166

IN-STORE APPRAISALS • REPAIRS • CUSTOM DESIGN FABRICATION • PEARL STRINGING • MORE

Custom jewelry doesn’t cost more…it’s worth more.

1 4 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

T H I N G S T O D O M I D – J A N U A R Y T O M I D – F E B R U A R Y ✪ = F R E E

prepay. Total class size is only 9 participants, so call 252-354-6350 to register.

MARCH 28✪ Carolina Maritime Model Society Meeting[ 2 PM ] The Carolina Maritime Model Society exists to promote the active participation in building ship models, a craft as old as shipbuilding itself. The group is the only such organization in the entire state and has become a major vehicle for widening public interest in North Carolina’s maritime history and culture. Membership is open to all members of the Friends of the Maritime Museum. For more information call 252-728-7317, stop by the Maritime Museum in Beaufort at 315 Front Street or visit ncmaritimemuseums.com.

APRIL 8–9✪ Free Boater Safety Course[ 5:30–8:30 PM ] Any person born on or after January 1, 1988 must complete a NASBLA approved boating education course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10HP or greater. Swansboro Parks and Recreation is offering a free NASBLA Boater Education Course. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center, 830 Main St. Ext. for more information. Register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

SPORTS | FITNESS

MARCH–JUNE Young Champions CheerleadingYoung Champions of America classes are at the Swansboro Recreation Center. Registration is March 2, ages 4-6, 5:30-6:15 p.m.; ages 7 & up, 6:15-7 p.m. Cost is an $8 registration fee and $7 per week. Register online at www.youngchampionsofamerica.com. For more class information or more locations call 910-769-3408.

3/2, 3/9, 3/16 .... Registration at 5:30 (ages 4–6), and 6:15 (ages 7 and up)

3/2–6/8 .................................................... Class

MARCH 2–30Yoga In the Park with Second Wind[ 8:30–9:30 AM ] Join Second Wind for a 5-week Yoga in the Park series. Classes will focus on basic yoga postures, meditations and relaxation. Series registration fee is $30; drop-in fee is $10. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.

MARCH 21First Annual Core Sound Run[ 9 AM–NOON ] At the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center, 1785 Island Road, Harkers Island. There will be a 10K, 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run. For details visit the Core Sound Run Facebook page at facebook.com/events/771387802944395. Register online at runtheeast.com/calendar.php.

MARCH 28The Emerald Isle MarathonChoose from the new full marathon, a half-marathon or a 5K. Race starts and finishes at the town’s main beach access. Start your training program and plan to bring family and friends with you. Half of the net proceeds will benefit future multi-use path improvements in the Town of Emerald Isle and half will be donated to the American Heart Association. Full marathon begins at 6:30 a.m. Half-Marathon begins at 7:45 a.m. 5K begins at 8:15 a.m. For more information or to register visit emeraldislerun.com.

APRIL 4Run Like a Kid 10K/5KRun Like a Kid includes a 10K, 5K and family fun mile run. Proceeds benefit the Carteret County Partnership for Children and its programs. Our theme will be Storybook Characters. We had so much fun with the storybook characters that joined us last year: Fancy Nancy, Waldo and Flash, just to name a few. For more information call 252-727-0440 or sign up at runtheeast.com.

7:55 a.m ............................. 10K/5K Wheelchair and 5K Baby Joggers

8 a.m .............................................5K/10K Run8:10 a.m ............................Family Fun Mile Run

GET OUTDOORS

MARCH 16Shackleford Banks: Horses, Hiking & History[ 9:45 AM–1:45 PM ] Experience Outer Banks heritage and wildlife on a guided hike. Find out what makes Shackleford Banks such a unique barrier island, from the early settlers and whaling villages to tales of Blackbeard the pirate and wild horses that roam the sandy beaches. Not suitable for children under 6. Fee is $30. Advance registration required. For more information call 252-728-7317, stop by the Maritime Museum in Beaufort at 315 Front Street or visit ncmaritimemuseums.com.

MARCH 28✪ 2015 Beaufort Boatbuilding Challenge Demonstration[ 9 AM–NOON ] Watch the construction of a challenge boat at the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center. Here’s your chance to see what a previous competitor has learned if you are planning to participate in the Beaufort BoatBuilding Challenge, held in conjunction with the 41st Annual Wooden Boat Show, on May 2. Free admission. For more information or to register, contact Vic Fasolino at 252-648-0944, stop by the Maritime Museum in Beaufort at 315 Front Street or visit ncmaritimemuseums.com.

MARCH 3, APRIL 7✪ Nature Trek with Hammocks Beach State Park[ 5:30 PM ] Hammocks Beach State Park rangers are coming to Swansboro Parks and Recreation to offer a free Nature Trek series. Open to ages 6-12. Drops-ins are welcome; pre-registration is encouraged. Call 910-326-2600 or come by the Swansboro Recreation Center at 830 Main Street Extension for more information, or register online at swansboro.recdesk.com.S

D.D.Taxi ServicesOutstanding service, friendly drivers.

252-393-6015Emerald Isle | Cape Carteret | SwansboroNEED A RIDE? CALL US!

Designated Driver TaxiDesignated Driver TaxiDesignated Driver Taxi

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 1 5

Located in the K&V Plaza Next to Flipperz ★ 311 Mangrove Drive , Emerald Isle ★ 252.354.7775

Newly remodeled and carrying several new product lines. Come check us out!JEWELRY • MONOGRAMMING & EMBROIDERY • HOMEMADE FUDGE • CULINARY NOVELTIES

HANDBAGS, TOTES & PURSES • APPAREL & ACCESSORIES • MUCH MORE!

Personalize your Easter goodies with baskets, bows and more!

Easter on the Isle!

VISIT OUR HUGE SHOWROOM!

WE SPECIALIZE IN EVERYTHING COASTAL!

Check Our Our Garden Art Poles! Something for Everyone!

Home Décor • Bedding Bathroom & Kitchen Accessories

Pictures & Flags • GiftsPaint-Your-Own Buoys

LARGEST SELECTION OF GUY HARVEY T-SHIRTS ON THE EAST COAST!

—Mon–Sat 10–5 • Sun 1–5—1075 Cedar Point Boulevard

252.393.7200

CRYSTAL COAST CLASHCRYSTAL COAST CLASHLIVE PRO WRESTLING • FRIDAY APRIL 3 7:30-9:45PMLIVE PRO WRESTLING • FRIDAY APRIL 3 7:30-9:45PM

130 GOLFIN’ DOLPHIN DRIVE • CAPE CARTERET • 252.393.6565

facebook.com/PWFLegacy

@PWFCrystalCoast

ProWrestlingPWF.com

TICKETS$5 FOR KIDS UNDER 13$10 FOR ADULTS

CLUB VIP$5 MORE ($2 FOR KIDS)

MULTIPLE LEVELS OF TANNING • BEDS & BOOTH • BUILT-IN FACIAL TANNERS • LAMPS ALWAYS FRESH COOLING FANS • MUSIC • RELAXED, FRIENDLY AND CLEAN • INCREDIBLE PACKAGE PRICING

GET THE SUN-KISSED LOOK YOU DESERVE AT PRICES AS LOW AS $250 A VISIT WITH A PACKAGE!

714 West Corbett Avenue, Suite 4 • Swansboro Plaza • 910-326-5559

P R O F E S S I O N A L L A N D S C A P E S E R V I C E S

Full Service Landscaping for your Home or BusinessLandscaping • Dune Revegetation • Lawn Maintenance • Retaining Walls • Brick Pavers • Pesticide Application

SERVING CARTERET & ONSLOW COUNTIES252.342.1505 • outdoorsolutions@ec.rr.com

1 8 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

‘Cricket II’ To Visit BeaufortB Y H E L E N A I T K E N

The Cricket II will make a public appearance at the Maritime Museum’s Wooden Boat Show in Beaufort , the first weekend in May. Although this 1947 Deltaville boat was built in Virginia, its heart is all North Carolina yellow pine. The keel came from a 12x14 inch, solid

knotless piece notched into the stem and transom. Solid 2 ½-inch oak rib framing were placed close together for strength, and covered by two-inch pine planking. In 1980, half-inch plywood for fiberglass roving and mat finishing, was added. The builder, Tiffany Cockrell said he had never seen the ocean but wanted to make the boat four times stronger than she needed to be, out of respect for it.

Folks may think the 42-foot Cricket II resembles a Skipjack, being modeled after low-deck oyster dredge boats. She’s designed for stability in ocean waters with a flat bottom, wide beam, spray rails, and a helm that’s reached by climbing a mast acting as a gin-pole to hoist heavy fish. From the mast hangs a sail boasting a fire-breathing dragon, part of its “Monster Fishing” image.

The Cricket II has a long aluminum bow pulpit for harpooning swordfish or sharks; here beer barrels rolled into the water. Submerged barrels added pressure on the fish, to wear it down faster. Sometimes more than one beer barrel would roll out. Moviegoers might remember this from the movie Jaws.

Original owner and captain Frank Mundus from Montauk, New Jersey, related stories of big shark fights to Peter Benchley during deep-sea fishing excursions on the Cricket II. Benchley, inspired by the Cricket II’s adventures, wrote the book and movie Jaws, and even based the character, Captain Quint played by Robert Shaw, on Frank Mundus.

The Cricket II holds the world’s record for the largest great white shark, at 4,500 pounds, and nine rod-and-reel records. Captain Mundus used unorthodox methods to attract sharks, like underwater speakers playing music or sound effects, tossing lighted firecrackers overboard, or banging on the deck. He created a special mixture to chum the water, bringing sharks to the boat. Mundus even tied up the boat to a floating dead whale to catch sharks feeding on it; “Big Boy,” a 3,450-pound white shark was caught this way in 1986.

The Cricket II was a fishing machine. Sadly, after the death of Frank Mundus, the boat was auctioned off in 2009, and purchased by

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 1 9

J E S S I C A G U E S N O C A R O L I N A H O M E & G A R D E N

CARING FOR ROSES CLASSCarolina Home & Garden, at 4778 Highway 24

in Newport, offers “Caring for Roses” with David Johnson, an expert from Weeks Roses, March 14 at 10 a.m. For information call 252-393-9004.

‘Anna’s Promise’GRANDIFLORA

Anna’s Promise is the first in a series of garden roses inspired by the award-winning British television series Downton Abbey. The unique

color combination of golden petals with a pink blush and glowing bronze reverse is a fitting

representation of Anna’s character. Elegant blossoms surrounded by glossy, green

foliage, exude a spicy, fruit fragrance. This graceful plant has strong blossom stems for

bouquets in the parlor.

‘Top Of the World’CLIMBING MINIATURE

This mini climber will elevate your garden atmosphere. With its long-lasting radiating

orange-and-yellow bicolor flowers and not too invasive personality, this vigorous variety has

the perfect balance of mini flowers and smaller foliage combined with a shorter mature habit

that makes it suitable for smaller garden spaces. Top of the World will continuously cover

itself with blooms from spring to fall right from the first season.

‘Above All’CLIMBER

Above All has an increased flower count per cluster, additional petals and improved

production to create a year-round exquisite show. Above AII maintains a very attractive salmon

orange flower color that remains strong, a nice fruity fragrance and a high level of disease

resistance. Above All stands strong among other climbers, with excellent vigor. Winter hardiness

allows Above All to perform with continuous blooming from spring to fall in multiple climates.

‘Neil Diamond’HYBRID TEA

Who would have imagined that the internationally acclaimed Rock and Roll Hall

of Fame singer-songwriter Neil Diamond would one day have a rose bearing his name with

the variety Rock and Roll as its “father”! This bloomer produces numerous sizable flowers on

long cutting stems. Its novel pink and white striped flower will add a touch of excitement to your garden. Neil Diamond has an intense floral

aromas and a vigorous upright habit.

‘Take It Easy’SHRUB

Ease of care means you can relax and enjoy this naturally disease-resistant new rose. The dark

green, shiny and healthy foliage is the perfect background to showcase the

clustering buds and flowers. A classic red color, this rose has the ideal pointy and very elegant buds. Take It Easy has excellent

vigor and its naturally self-maintaining habit makes this bloomer a great reason to

Take it Easy.

NEW IN 2015

NEW IN 2015

NEW IN 2015

NEW IN 2015 NEW IN 2015

Stop & Smell the RosesBrand-new roses for 2015! Sign up for the class ‘Caring for Roses’ with David Johnson of Weeks Roses at Carolina Home & Garden in Newport to help ensure your rose garden’s success this summer.

Roses have a long and colorful history. They have been symbols of love, beauty, war and politics. The rose is,

according to fossil evidence, 35 million years old. In nature, the genus Rosa has about 150 species stretching from the northern hemisphere from Alaska to Mexico and including Northern Africa.

Weeks Roses is one of the largest rose growers in the United States and has been growing roses since 1938. Weeks offers a unique, broad selection of popular and unusual roses, from hybrid teas and grandifloras, floribundas, climbers, shrubs and shrublets, miniatures, tree roses and All America Rose selections. S

2 0 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

Lookout Rotary ‘Run for Healthy Living’ Spring Road RaceLookout Rotary Club of Morehead City

will hold their annual Spring Road Race on April 25. This will be our 26th year and once again the race will be held at the Sports Center in Morehead City. Proceeds from this fundraiser provide support to community nonprofits, national and international Rotary projects and scholarships to deserving students attending the CSTEP program at Carteret Community College.

This year there will be a sea of bright green T-shirts in memory of Sonny Hyman. Sonny died a few weeks prior to our race last year. It was unanimously decided we should honor him this year by providing all runners with a bright green T-shirt like the one he was so famous for. Sonny was instrumental

in helping our club start the road race 26 years ago. To my knowledge, he never missed a race. Even if he couldn’t run, he still showed up.

Last year we added a race for 5th grade competition, Run for Healthy Living. All 5th graders are challenged to compete, at the school level, in preparation for the April race. They will send their fastest runners to compete in this one-mile race. The male and female runner with the fastest time will be awarded a cash prize of $500 each for his or her school’s PE program. Medals will be given to first and second-place male and female winners; all participants will receive blue ribbons.

For those who do not qualify for the Run

for Healthy Living race, we encourage you to run in our One Mile Run and Fitness walk.

On behalf of the Lookout Rotary, letters have been sent to the medical community asking for donations towards registration fees for these 100 runners. Their financial assistance will help the club’s efforts to promote healthy lifestyles. Dr. David Walker with Coastal Carolina Orthodontics and Carteret General Hospital are Host Sponsors for this race. We encourage others in the medical community to join us in our efforts to make a difference. Please make your donation, supporting this worthy cause, to Lookout Rotary, P.O. Box 1854, Morehead City NC 28557. S

Volunteer Training at the Beaufort Historic Site

Your time and talent is needed at the Beaufort Historic Site. If you are interested in sharing your much-needed skills, then you are invited to attend the annual Volunteer Training Program on Thursday,

March 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Beaufort Historic Site, 100 Block Turner Street.

The one-day volunteer training program offers an overview of every volunteer opportunity there is at the BHA. From demonstrating a 19th century craft once a year, helping with an enormous event like the Old Homes Tour, volunteering in the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery, to giving tours of the Historic Site during the week, you would be a welcome addition to an ever-growing number of volunteers who assist with a wide variety of tasks.

Following a brief registration period, trainees will tour five of the BHA’s historic buildings to observe volunteer docents in action. Next the various educational programs such as Harvest Time, Kindergarten Thanksgiving, the Living History series and school group tours will be discussed.

Just before lunch, prospective volunteers will be treated to a tour on the 1967 English double-decker bus, giving those who attend a chance to see the volunteer driver, narrator and conductor positions at work while enjoying a lively tour of beautiful Beaufort ending with a guided stroll through the Old Burying Ground.

A catered lunch will be provided and prospective volunteers will have the opportunity to meet the BHA

staff, hear about volunteer needs in the office, the Welcome Center and the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery. A question and answer period is provided so participants may better understand the vital role volunteers play in the daily functions of the BHA.

New and returning volunteers alike are invited to learn about this area’s colorful history while finding the perfect volunteer opportunity. This one-day training program serves as an overview to the abundant opportunities available and once a specific area of interest is selected, new volunteers will receive more in-depth training in their chosen field.

Due to limited space, those interested in participating are asked to register in advance and confirm the date and time by calling the Beaufort Historic Site at 252-728-5225, stopping by the Welcome Center at 130 Turner Street in Beaufort or by visiting beauforthistoricsite.org. S

your life on the Crystal Coast

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 2 1

Words of Wisdom with The Dalai Mama is a personal journey that went very public when local author, Aleece Walz, began to share her daily struggles, lessons and antidotes through her personal blog and social media. Words of Wisdom with The Dalai Mama will take you through daily issues and questions that we all face, sprinkled with

wit, humor and food for the soul. Aleece Walz releases Words of Wisdom with The Dalai Mama Spring 2015. It will be

available at all four Beaufort Olive Oil locations and other local gift and book stores. It is also available on Amazon.com for your Kindle device. This book is a must-read for the inquisitive soul and those that just need a good belly laugh or a break from the mundane.

With today’s stress and hurried lifestyles the release of Words of Wisdom with The Dalai Mama could not come at a better time. You will see yourself in the pages and stories and find yourself gaining insight and perspective in your daily struggles.

Aleece Walz has truly gleaned the wheat from the chaff in her humorous accounts of

daily life and lessons learned.As Dr. Wayne Dyer said, “When you

change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

Aleece Walz grew up in the south where collard greens, ham, Pepsi and Pentecostal Holiness were staples in small Southern townships. She has harbored a love for writing since she was a little girl and found it to be a respite in troubling times. She has traveled the world, sometimes only in her mind, and thrives on the gathering of wisdom from all corners of the earth.

She is now married and raising three beautiful, enlightened and aware children. But in the wee morning time, when she is all alone, she grabs her pen and paper and writes her take on wisdom gathered from many Master Teachers and lessons learned in daily life.

For more information about Words of Wisdom with The Dalai Mama, please visit facebook.com/WordsofWisdomwithTheDalaiMama or contact Patanjali Publishing at 252-241-5192. S

ABOUT THE AUTHORAleece Walz grew up in the south. She has

harbored a love for writing since she was a little girl and found it to be a respite in troubling times. She has traveled the world, sometimes only in her

mind, and thrives on the gathering of wisdom from all corners of the earth.

Words of WisdomA daily journey filled with wit, humor and food for the soul describes

the book that is being released by local author Aleece Walz.

N E W B O O K R E L E A S E

2 2 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

A Unfortunately our waters are too cool for these fascinating animals, but we do have their cousins, octopus and squid. All are in the class Cephalopoda. Cuttlefish are found primarily in shallow, tropical waters. Depending on the species, they inhabit depths from a few to several hundred feet and migrate to deeper

water in winter. Like the octopus, the cuttlefish’s body is malleable, but tends to be more flattened and elongated in shape. Narrow fins run along each side of the body and undulate rapidly when it is swimming.

There are approximately 100 species of cuttlefish. All have eight arms with suction disks plus two longer, lightning-fast tentacles used to capture prey. The arms are noticeably shorter than that of the octopus. The common cuttlefish Sepia officinalis feeds primarily on crustaceans and small fishes.

The term “sepia” refers to the ink cuttlefish produce, used to deceive predators like large fish. When a potential predator approaches, the cuttlefish ejects the dark ink into the water in hopes of confusing the possible attacker so it can jet-propel itself to safety.

A cuttlefish’s body is made up primarily of the mantle, which houses the cuttlebone and vital organs. The cuttlebone is made of calcium carbonate and plays a major role in the cuttlefish’s buoyancy. The head is located at the base of the mantle and has two large eyes on either side and sharp, beak-like jaws in the center of the arms. Depending on the species, cuttlefish range in size from a mere inch to 35 inches in length.

Common cuttlefish are usually a mottled blackish or brown, but color can vary greatly. Like their octopus cousin, cuttlefish can change color, texture and pattern to blend with their surroundings. The scientific community is also studying the possibility of color change as a form of communication among cephalopods.

Discover more fascinating facts about North Carolina’s aquatic environments and inhabitants by visiting the aquariums on Roanoke Island, at Fort Fisher and at Pine Knoll Shores, or Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head. S

F A Q

Common cuttlefish can change color quickly to blend in with their surroundings.

(Photo for the NC Aquariums, courtesy of William Lawson)

about theA Q U A R I U M

Information provided by the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll

Shores. The state operates three public aquariums; one in Pine Knoll Shores, another at Fort Fisher and a third on Roanoke Island, as well as Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head. The facilities are administered by the North Carolina

Department of Environment and Natural Resources and are designed to inspire

appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments.

—F O R M O R E I N F O —

For more information, call 1-800-832-FISH or visit

ncaquariums.com.

Do cuttlefish live in North Carolina waters?

A S K T H E A Q U A R I U M N C A Q U A R I U M S . C O M / P I N E - K N O L L - S H O R E S

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 2 3

Calling All Artists! Poster Contest 2015 is UnderwayB Y A M I E TA LT O N

Looking for some extra green in your pocket? How does an extra $250 sound? If you like to draw, sketch or paint, that money could end up in your pocket. All you have to do is enter and win the 15th Annual Core Sound Decoy Festival Poster Contest. But you can’t win if you don’t enter!

Hosted by the Core Sound Decoy Carvers Guild, the poster contest is an annual event for artists of all skill levels and ages. There is no entry fee—simply fill out the contest application and submit your entry by March 31.

There are a few guidelines. The drawing must be of a greater scaup against a white background, and must fit within an 8.5"x11" rectangle. Each year the guild chooses a featured decoy for the festival and the greater scaup was chosen for 2015. It is also a good idea to check out the guild’s Facebook page or website and view past decoy festival posters to get an idea of the traditional decoy festival poster format.

In addition to the $2500 cash prize, the winning entry will be used on 2015 Core Sound Decoy Festival posters, advertising flyers, apparel and more? Talk about a great way to get your name and talent, out there! The Core Sound Decoy Festival is one of the largest decoy festivals on the East Coast!

Interested? Call Amie Talton at 252-393-3792 or e-mail amie_talton@yahoo.com to obtain a poster packet, complete with the application and rules, by mail. Or visit the Core Sound Decoy Guild website at decoyguild.com to print a copy of the application and rules. This year’s poster contest is already underway, so call or e-mail to get your poster packet. Good luck to all who enter! S

W W W. R I B E Y E S S T E A K H O U S E . C O M

502 FRONT STREET • BEAUFORT • 252.728.6105

BEAUFORT’S STEAMED SEAFOOD BARBeaufort Ribeyes new Steamed Seafood Bar will open to the public

at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

DOWN EAST CLAM BAKEDOWN EAST

CLAM CHOWDER OYSTERS • CLAMSSNOW CRAB LEGS

SHRIMP

Steam Bar Room is available for private parties of 10 or more on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Call for details.

2 4 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

From Iowa to New York City, the Swansboro Middle School stage has ventured to diverse places. But, this March the adventure will take our audience to an underwater ocean of enchantment. The Little Mermaid, Jr., will grace the school’s stage on Friday, March 13 7

p.m. and Saturday, March 14, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. A steadfast and large ensemble of students has dedicated many hours of practice to bring this family-friendly production to life.

Back in 2006, Kristen Viszneki took a gamble with The Music Man and as they say, “stars were born.” She constructed the entire show with a cast of more than 50 eager students with the help of Susan Correl. Correll has been by her side ever since.

“It was an exhilarating experience and surprisingly went off without a hitch,” Viszneki said. That original cast from 9 years ago now includes two present-day music teachers and a Disney-bound actor. There have been 8 more productions, with Beauty and the Beast being the only other foray into the Disney world. Each performance has enchanted local folks and has instilled a love for the arts for all of the students involved. Many former cast members, including Meredith Howell who was the assistant director for last year’s Into the Woods, have assisted with productions.

The Little Mermaid Jr. closely follows the beloved Disney movie with a few surprises. Ariel is an independent mermaid who yearns to break free of the fold. Her six mermaid sisters, all very silly and pretty, are more concerned with attracting attention. Their mother, Queen Triton, holds down the fort with strength and a quiet love. Flounder, Ariel’s best friend and Scuttle, their above-water buddy, seek grand adventures. Sebastian consistently keeps them all in line.

Ursula, who desperately wants the Queen’s trident, sends her eels, Flotsam and Jetsam, to take care of business. Ariel falls in love with Prince Eric at first sight, to the astonishment of his guardian, Grimsby. Come out to see the show to see what happens!

Zachary Borge, fresh from upstate New York, has offered his expertise with both the stage and set. As co-directors, Viszneki and Borge have made a formidable and affable team and truly champion student success, both on stage and in the classroom. Borge’s sets are a splendid and vivacious representation of ocean life. Susan Correll and Jill Lott, both teachers at Swansboro Middle, have taken donated treasures and turned them into walking works of art. Their costume efforts will brighten the already colorful cast.

Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for students under 18. Are you a Little Mermaid fan or do you know a cast member? Purchase a T-shirt at the Swansboro Middle School office for $10, which includes admission to one show! Simply wear or bring it to the performance. For more information, call the Swansboro Middle School office at 910-326-3601. S

SHOWTIMESShow dates are March 13 at 7 p.m. and March

14 at 2 and 7 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for students under 18.

For tickets call 910-326-3601.

SwansboroMiddle School Production of

The Little Mermaid, Jr., Delights

L O C A L T H E A T R E K R I S T E N V I S Z N E K I

DON’T GET CAUGHT WITHOUTCOVERAGE FOR YOUR BOAT.

7884

7

Call me today for a quote.Insure your boat - hook, line and sinker - with Allstate Boatowners Insurance.

638 W. Corbett Ave.Swansboro, NC 28584

Tammy FryRoger Brown Allstate(910) 326-5383

Insurance subject to availability and qualifications. Allstate Indemnity Co. Northbrook, IL. © 2009 Allstate Insurance Co.

B O A T I N S U R A N C E

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 2 5

Full of fun, grace and beauty are ways one might describe North American River Otters, who have, over the years, been restored throughout North Carolina to their former population glory. It’s a pity that these gorgeous creatures nearly became extinct in the early 1900s due to the greed surrounding the fur trade. Otters in the swampy marshes found in our coastal regions had a better chance

at survival, though, because food was plentiful and the wetlands areas were inaccessible to hunters and trappers.

Although they are secretive animals, otter sightings are reported by outdoor enthusiasts who were awestruck by their sleek beauty and captivated by their antics. Most enjoyable to watch is the spirited otters’ expression of fun as they revel in sliding down mud hills into the river or skidding across snow like they are riding a skimmer board. Boy do they like

to play and frolic! Reported as some of the most playful wild animals, young otters love to wrestle and chase each other, and both activities are good training for survival skills—they gain the agility, endurance and the raw power they will need as adult otters.

At the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter in Newport, we have only admitted one river otter in many years—a youngster found alone and unable to fend for himself. It was important to maintain his wild side while being raised at the shelter. So important that a staff member posted a sign for everyone to see: “Do Not Speak to the Otter.” He was adorable, but also wild and meant to stay wild. We were very careful to prevent our little otter from habituating with humans.

He had many vocalizations, and we came to know when he was hungry or when he needed attention. Otters are very social animals, so the goal was to pack on some weight, ensure expert swimming skills, teach him to hunt and ready him to colonize with other otters.

The North American River Otter is a carnivorous mammal that belongs to the Mustelidae family, along with weasels and minks. They look very similar to a weasel, only much, much larger, weighing up to 30 pounds and measuring nearly 4 feet in length. Otters have characteristic elongated and streamlined bodies with stout and sturdy legs. Its waterproof fur is a sleek, dense dark brown with a light tan underbelly and its face is adorned with a cute, blunt oval-shaped snout. River Otters have a thick neck, a long furry and thick tail and lots of whiskers used for detecting the vibrations of nearby prey. Their eyes and ears are high on the head to aid in surface swimming. They can go deep in the water as well—a depth of 60 feet has been recorded—and they can stay under for up to eight minutes. Otters have a nictitating membrane that covers and protects their eyes while swimming underwater. Their feet have five toes with nonretractable claws and webbing between each toe, which helps them

ABOUT O.W.L.S.

Take a tour of the facility at 100 Wildlife Way, Newport. To volunteer, call 252-240-1200. If your organization would like to learn more about wildlife, the O.W.L.S. non-releasable

education animals jump at the chance!

OTTERS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN!

Don’t let his grumpy expression fool you! The River Otter is one of the most playful, fun-loving creatures in nature.

L I N D A B E R G M A N – A L T H O U S E O U T E R B A N K S W I L D L I F E S H E L T E R

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

DRIVE-THRU | OPEN 7 DAYS | FREE WI-FI

252.393.7120207 W.B. MCLEAN DRIVE | CAPE CARTERET DIRECT SOURCE

Peppermint Patty Latte

$3 LATTE • $4 FRAPPE

New! Grasshopper Mousse Pie Blizzard PLUS new DQ Oven-Hot Bakes!

BLIZZARD OF THE MONTH

Grasshopper Mousse Pie

Blizzard Treat

8307 EMERALD DRIVE • EMERALD ISLE

252.354.9024

Open Wednesday to SundaySERVING COFFEE & PASTRY STARTING AT 7 AM

FROM 10 AM TO 2:30 PMANGUS HOTDOGS, SAUSAGES, BRATS, CHICKEN

SAUSAGE, HAMBURGERS, SANDWICHES, SOUPS, SALADS

FROM 5 PM TO 9 PM (SUNDAY 4–8 PM)SOUTHERN FUSION WITH AN

INSPIRATION OF LATIN & ASIAN CUISINE

WEDNESDAYSALL BOTTLED WINE HALF PRICE

THURSDAYSALL DRAFTS $2.50 • 12 ON TAP

FRIDAYSLIVE ACOUSTIC MUSIC

SUNDAYSSUSHI

—FULL ABC PERMITS—

Historic Downtown Swansboro Corner of Front & Moore Street

910.325.0502BoroCafeNC.com

12 CRAFT DRAFTS • ALL ABC PERMITS

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK FOR DAILY SPECIALS & ENTERTAINMENT DETAILS

MARCH / APRIL 2015 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | 2 7

C A P T A I N J E F F C R O N K H O O K E D U P F I S H I N G R E P O R T

It’s been a tough winter with several long, extreme cold periods, but March 20 marks the beginning of spring and many anglers consider spring to be the start of the Crystal Coast fishing season. There will be some serious inshore and nearshore fishing opportunities available for those ready to brave the traditionally tough conditions. The days are getting longer, the weather is often unsettled and many fish are beginning their

spring migration patterns. Along the Crystal Coast that means fishing heats up! If you get the chance, come check out the Get Hooked Fishing School at the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium this March 21. There will be a plethora of fishing information shared by some excellent fishing captains. I’ll be offering an in-depth seminar on targeting flounder. I’ll also be giving away sample baits and products from sponsoring companies.

Inshore BiteAlthough March weather can be tough, the inshore waters will continue to offer many

chances to hook up with Speckled Trout, Redfish and some Stripers along the Crystal Coast. The water temps will be on the verge of a slow, steady climb this month. The result will come in the form of some hungry fish easing out of their winter slumber to appease their increased metabolism. The first areas to heat up will be our creeks, our rivers and along the mainland side of the sounds. These warming waters will begin to attract wintering populations of Speckled Trout and Puppy Drum as they attempt to feed upon the surfacing schools of Peanut Pogies, scattered Finger Mullets, clouds of Mud Minnows and Crabs. Due to the large amount of “terd moss,” or slimy green algae, that will be covering much of the high-salinity bays this month, anglers can better target Reds by setting up a Carolina rig or fish finder rig with a Gulp shrimp, fresh blue crab or some cut mullet. By casting this rig and letting it rest on the bottom in an area holding Redfish, anglers can avoid constantly getting their bait covered in slime. If you prefer to cast an artificial bait, I would suggest working a top-water bait or a weightless Jerk bait. My favorite soft bait for dealing with the slime is Berkley’s 5" Gulp Jerk Shad in the following colors: smelt, pearl white, root beer, gold and new penny). When this bait is fished on a weightless worm hook it will suspend just below the water’s surface and mimic a wounded minnow when worked with a short pop, pause and slow retrieve. Another great soft bait is Berkley’s Powerbait 4½" Rib Shad. This bait has a ribbed body that produces some incredible vibrations and, combined with the paddle tail, it produces lift which is extremely helpful when fishing super shallow water. I will be fishing this scented soft bait on a 1/16 to 1/8-oz. jighead.

Nearshore Bite If the surf water temperatures reach 60 degrees by the end of March, we will begin to see

schools of Bluefish showing up around the inlets and nearshore live bottoms. But regardless of the arrival of bluefish, large schools of False Albacore will appear around the inlet tidelines and just outside the surf zone by mid to late March. This spring run of Albacore will be feeding voraciously and will strike most 3 to 4" metal jigs or soft plastic glass minnow imitations such as Berkley’s 5" Jerk Shad. The spring run of Albacore is less picky than the fall run and will often explode on small topwater baits. I have found the most success with silver bottom/dark back topwaters in the 3–4" range. To locate these fish, anglers should look for the presence of flocks of small, white terns hovering frantically just a few feet above the water’s surface. Always approach these surfacing fish slowly and cast a few yards ahead of the school. Use a fast retrieve with an occasional pop or twitch to the rod tip. An albacore’s strike is swift and hard, and their run is high speed. It’s important to keep the rod bent and the drag light to avoid unwanted breakoffs. Since these fish are not great table fare, you’ll want to avoid gaffing them. Grasp them by the forked tail and release them quickly after they are de-hooked. S

SPRING INTO FISHING! A H O O K E D U P L O O K AT W H AT ’ S B I T I N G I N M A R C H

FISH’N 4 LIFE

Captain Jeff Cronk leads fishing and nature charters on the Crystal Coast. To get out on the water with him, call 910-325-8194. You can also visit him online at nccharterfishing.com.

2 8 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

DIVING OUR COASTI N M A R C H

March is traditionally one of our coldest months of the year, but February was one of the coldest since the late 1980s. Water temperatures offshore were in the low 60s; inshore temperatures were in the 40–50s. On one of those rare mornings that the wind wasn’t blowing on a Saturday (although the air was in the 20s), the Captain’s Lady made it out of the slip by breaking the ice on

the water and heading out for a couple of offshore dives.The USS Schurz is one of our favorite wrecks south of Beaufort Inlet. Its layout is easy

to navigate, with an identifiable bow and stern. Divers who enjoy this wreck will also enjoy the Proteus, located on the east side toward Hatteras. The Proteus has been described as “the Schurz on steroids.” It takes about two-and-a-half hours to get there from Beaufort Inlet. The area is known to have currents on the surface, but they can go all of the way to the bottom. Visibility ranges from 60 feet to over 100 feet. When there is no current and the water is blue, the Proteus is an impressive wreck, teeming with sand tiger sharks, amberjacks, lionfish, sea bass, grouper, tropical fish and other marine life.

The Proteus was named after a New Orleans mystical society organization. In mythology, Proteus was the prophetic old man of the sea and shepherd of the sea’s flocks. The Proteus was built in Newport News, Virginia, and launched in 1899. She was considered one of the safest ships of the time. She had 46 staterooms for 78 first-class passengers, 30 staterooms for 50 second-class passengers and 50 berths for third-class passengers. The apartments were elegant and were equipped with electric fans and lights. There were enough very comfortable chairs and lounges for every passenger to be seated at one time. The main dining room could hold 56 passengers at one sitting.

On August 14, 1918, the Proteus left New Orleans bound for New York with 75 passengers and crew. On August 19, 1918, the Proteus was moving through heavy fog 34 miles southwest of Diamond Shoals. Nearby was the Cushing, an oil tanker. Both ships were running at reduced speed when the Cushing appeared out of the fog and hit the Proteus amidships, opening a large hole beneath her waterline. The ship was abandoned in less than an hour. Only one person died in the collision, a fireman aboard the Proteus who panicked and jumped into the water at the time of the collision (he drowned). The Cushing was undamaged and picked up all of the survivors. Six hours later, the Proteus sank to the bottom, where she rests today under 120 feet of water.

Until a hurricane rolled it in 2012, the wreck had been upright, but it now lists to port. A large brass propeller that is attached to a long shaft is on the stern deck. The rudder is still in place and a 4-blade, 18-foot propeller is sticking up out of the sand. Each of the blades is about ten feet in length. Moving from the stern towards the bow, the next noticeable feature is the engine. The triple expansion steam engine has fallen and is now leaning toward the port side. Even though it is no longer upright, the propeller shaft is still connected to the engine. The propeller shaft is still partially covered by the propeller shaft alley and can be spotted running toward the stern in places the shaft alley has rusted away. Forward of the engine are the boilers.

There are three large boilers and one smaller auxiliary boiler which has broken free of its mounts. This area of the wreck rises 30 feet above the sand and is the highest part of the wreck. Forward of the boilers are the cargo hatches and the windlass. The windlass is located in the center of the wreck. Forward of the windlass is the bow of the wreck or what is remaining of it. It is angled upward toward, rising about twenty-five feet off of the bottom. The ship’s bell was recovered in May of 2013. Most of the rectangular porthole windows were recovered in the 1970’s and 1980’s.

If you would like more information about diving on some of the best wrecks with some of the best marine life in the world, contact Discovery Diving at 252-728-2265 or at dive@discoverydiving.com or like us on Facebook to see what events are coming up in the near future. S

JOIN ECARA

ECARA works to continue sinking ships to create artificial reefs here in North Carolina, but their resources are limited. To get involved with ECARA, visit carolinareef.org to check out their current project list.

JOIN DISCOVERY

Contact Discovery Diving at 252-728-2265 or visit them on Facebook to see what classes and events are coming up. You can also visit discoverydiving.com.

D I S C O V E R Y D I V I N G L E E M O O R E

200 WET & DRY SLIPS

BOAT SERVICE

OFFICIAL CITATION

WEIGH STATION

NC WILDLIFE SERVICE AGENT

ETHA-NOL-FREE

GAS AT THE DOCKS!

Your Complete Bait & Tackle Shop

The most complete bait & tackle marina on the East Coast. Extensive boat storage and a friendly staff make Dudley’s

a one-stop shop for all your boating needs.

HIGHWAY 24 EAST • SWANSBORO • 252-393-2204WWW.DUDLEYSMARINA.NET

T I DE C HA RTCAPE HATTERAS TIDES

MARCH 7 TO APRIL 7

3 0 | C A R O L I N A S A L T | MARCH / APRIL 2015

maneuver in a variety of marine and fresh-water habitats ranging from slow-moving coastal streams to rapidly running mountain streams.

On land, frisky otters can leap and run almost as effectively as they swim, and have been clocked as fast as 18 mph. Generally nocturnal, otters are semi-aquatic predators that feed on fish, crayfish, crabs, rodents, birds, eggs and amphibians such as frogs. Although they need to be near water, which provides most of their food source, they spend two-thirds of their time on land. They live in dens with many tunnel openings along the river bank, or they may take up residence in any natural cavity they find.

Although the fun-loving otter is not known as a fighter, it will charge or scratch those who invade their feces-marked territory. They communicate with each other by whistling, growling, chuckling or screaming. Scent glands near the base of their tails allow them to scent-mark with a musky odor, fencing off their home range.

Otters live in bands of 5 to 10 adults with their spring breeding season pups. Otters become sexually mature within two years, although many males do not mate until they

are 5 to 7 years of age. But when they do, they are promiscuous and will breed with a number of females during breeding season.

Pups are born in the spring after delayed implantation, which means the female may have been impregnated almost a year before. Three to six fully furred 4 to 6 ounce pups are born. They will nurse from Mom for only three months but usually remain with her for almost a year. The male is not considered part of the family and does not help with pup rearing. (It might be that “cheating” thing!)

All otters must be wary of predators such as bobcats, coyotes or foxes, domestic dogs, black bears, large raptors such as eagles, alligators and man (intentional or unintentional). Although they mainly escape predation through their agility in the water, they aren’t quite as quick and maneuverable on land. North American River Otters are, themselves, important predators who help maintain a healthy aquatic ecosystem by eating “trash” fish that compete with more economically desirable game fish; the presence of otters generally does not affect humans in any adverse way.

An otter’s life expectancy in the wild is 8 to 9 years, although in captivity, a record high

of 21 years is reported. When our young otter of years ago was

ready to be transfered to the great outdoors, we first moved him into the reinforced pelican enclosure (in the absence of pelicans at the time), which accommodated him with a grand pool and ground cover. His otter skills developed rapidly! Although his weight was up, he fished and he displayed Olympic swimmer moves, he seemed lonely and sad, so we made arrangements to transport him to a rehabilitator’s home in Merrimon along the river where otter presence was known.

We set up his makeshift den close to the house where our volunteer, Heather, could keep an eye on his comings and goings and provide supplement food. Routinely, she watched him go to the river to eat and play, then return to his otter apartment daily, but within a few weeks, she started to see him less and less. Our theory is that he eventually found others of his own kind down the waterway and, because he was so darned cute, we’re almost certain our otter has had a positive impact in helping to repopulate the North American River Otters in our coastal region. You go boy, and hope you’re still having fun! S

Otters, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

Jon Dodd. As a teen, he considered Mundus his shark hero, and was enthralled by his stories. His intention was to renovate her for fishing. After spending too much money, he donated the boat for a tax donation. In 2014, the Cricket II Restoration and Preservation Foundation began to resurrect the boat to take Wounded Warriors and Disabled American Veterans fishing.

In late October 2014, several groups of vets went fishing with Captain Joe DiBella. “Before my eyes, I watched a quiet group of men who got on the boat timid and cautious become open and joking they were now experts at fishing for speckled trout.  There was so much kidding and joking going on, I couldn’t help but smile.

When the day had ended, I invited my ‘expert fishermen’ to come up and drive the boat as we headed in.  The smiles on their faces when we arrived back at the dock were beyond explanation. It was as if they had a new perspective on life. On parting, I gave each of them a Daiwa spinning rod to commemorate their trip and told them to keep fishing.

“I think it’s important for people to know what we’re doing on the Cricket II. These experiences have the potential to change people’s lives,” said DiBella.

As a 501(c) 3 nonprofit, the Cricket II relies on sponsorships and donations to keep it afloat. To help, the Mini Cricket, a 13-foot juniper skiff valued at $1,250, will be raffled off at the Wooden Boat Show. Before May, the skiff will be located at various locations around Carteret County; raffle tickets are available for $5 each or five for $20.

Since Captain DiBella is no stranger to shark hunting, he also offers “shark tags” for $25 each. Sharks will be tagged when caught. The date, shark type and location will be recorded and sent to the purchaser. If the shark is caught again, the tag will be removed, and sent to the owner with the shark’s information. All information goes to researchers.

To purchase raffle tickets or shark tags, please contact Captain Joe DiBella at cricket2@reagan.com or by calling 252-725-4277. You can also visit the website at cricket2project.com. S

Legendary Cricket, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

Frank Mundus and a great white shark.

311 Mangrove Drive Across from CVS in Emerald Isle252.354.7775 • flipperz.net • facebook.com/flipperzemeraldisle

SHRIMP & GRITS

All-You-Can-EatCRAB LEGS

On Facebook every day!

SUNDAY, APRIL 5Chicken-N-Waffles & Quiche!

Tuesdays & Thursdays

Thursdays & Saturdays

Daily Lunch Specials

Join Us for Easter Brunch!

Sunday–Thursday 11am–8pm • Friday–Saturday 11am–9pm • Closed Mondayflipperz.net

SEAFOOD • STEAKS • SANDWICHES

A casual Island eatery with a touch of class.

Amazing Easter Brunch!Amazing Easter Brunch!

WEEKLY OR MONTHLY SERVICE • EQUIPMENT REPAIR UPGRADES • CHEMICAL ANALYSIS & MAINTENANCELINER REPAIR • POOL REMODELINGAbove Ground Pools • Inground Pools • Chemicals Filters • Pumps Heaters Salt Systems • Pool Cleaners • Fiberglass Repair • More!

WHETHER YOU NEED A LITTLE POOL SERVICE OR A LOT, WE HAVE A PLAN FOR YOU.

252.764.9128

1058 CEDAR POINT BOULEVARD • CEDAR POINTAQUAONEPOOLANDSPA.COM

Call Aqua One for pool opening & cleanup. Nothing freaks us out.

Can’t face the cleanup?

Enjoy the beauty of a fresh, clean swimming pool.