Meetings
Historical Society of Topsail Island to Host Author and Superior Court Judge Gary Trawick
Special Superior Court Judge Gary Trawick who is a Burgaw native has taken on the challenge of tracing the history of the Pender County region down to its roots. He has written and published a chronicle of his findings in a new hardback book entitled “Born in Reconstruction: The Story of Pender County.”
Beginning with the expedition of Verrazano into the Cape Fear River in 1524 and following through the development of the region, the birth of Pender, and its growth into the 21st century, Judge Trawick has created the first comprehensive book-length survey of the county since 1947.
The Historical Society of Topsail Island will have Trawick as its speaker on Thursday, November 8. The public is invited to join with HSTI members for a catered meal at 11:30 a.m. followed by Judge Trawick’s presentation. The event will be at the Assembly Building, 720 Channel Blvd. in Topsail Beach. Reservations for the meal which will be prepared by the Beach Shop and Grill must be made by calling Jane Combs 328-2327 by Friday, November 2. The cost of the meal is $10 ($9 for 70 and older).
VFW Post 9983 Holly Ridge
• Fall Turkey Shoots will be held every Saturday at 6 p.m. until Dec.15. The winner in each round will be placed in a drawing for a new shotgun. The shotgun is a Remington model 870 12-gauge donated by Johnny Johnson and Willie Parent of Sportsman’s Lodge located at 3521 New Bern Hwy. in Jacksonville. Drawing to be held during the last shoot on Dec. 15.
• The next Concealed Carry Class scheduled TBA. For more information, visit www.eastern-ncconcealedcarry.com.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars is a non-profit service organization for men and women who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States in combat areas. Contact any member for eligibility rules. Striving to “Honor the dead by serving the living.” Active in many military and community programs. The canteen is open from 3 to 8 p.m. daily with extended hours for special events. The hall is available for rental and catering is available. Special considerations for nonprofits needing meeting space. Support your local Veterans by supporting the VFW, located at 188 Hines Stump Sound Church Rd. Holly Ridge, 910-329-1881. One mile north of Holly Ridge, turn at flags.
Boy Scout Troop 937, Sneads Ferry
Meets every Wednesday night at 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church. (Lakeside Dr. and Hwy. 172). For more information contact Harvey Hoopes at 910-327-0069 or harveyhoopes@gmail.com
New River Garden Club
Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of every month. The NRGC is open for membership to all who would like to share their love of gardening, community service and conservation. If you would like more information about the club, contact Tommi Allen at 912-660-5274 ortallen@coastalpermits.com
Hampstead Marine Corps League
The Hampstead Detachment 1321 of Marine Corps League meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Topsail Senior Center located next to Pender Pines Nursery. New members are always welcome, both Marines and FMF Navy corpsman.
Sneads Ferry Extension and Community Association
Meetings are held the third Thursday of the month at the Senior Citizens Building on Route 172, from 1:15 to 3 p.m. Learn about various issues for the community and well being, do some crafts, work the concession stand at Sneads Ferry Monday Night Bingo (the club’s fundraiser for a scholarship to a deserving student at Dixon High). For further information, contact Ida MacNamara at 327-0718 or idamac1@embarqmail.com.
Young in Heart
Membership in Young in Heart is open to all Topsail area residents who are 50 years of age or older. The dues are $7 a year. For more information, contact President Rosemary Krug at 270-1875.
Sneads Ferry Bingo
New games and better payouts! Come play bingo on Monday nights at the Sneads Ferry Community Center, located at 126 Park Lane off of Sneads Ferry Road. Building opens at 5:30 p.m. Early Birds start at 7 p.m., Regular games follow with a $300 payout progressive game, 50/50 Bonanza game and ends with a Jackpot game which pays according to attendance, the more players the bigger the prize. Smoke-free, refreshments available, free coffee. Proceeds support the community through the Sneads Ferry Community Council. Contact 327-3335 or sfoffice@netscope.com.
Sneads Ferry Beautification Committee
Meetings are held the first Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. through May at the New River Plantation Clubhouse in Sneads Ferry (off Route 172). The objective is to continue to beautify Sneads Ferry. Currently the group maintains several plant beds and the attractive banners displayed throughout the community. New members, volunteers and guests are always welcome. For more information, contact Claire Wunder at 327-2435.
Growing Again — Hampstead Women’s Club
The Thrift Shop is looking incredible; if you haven't been in lately, drop by and see how the layout and organization of the shop has improved. HWC receives donations daily from Hampstead-area residents and businesses, so there is always something new and something spectacular! Located at 14435 US Hwy 17 just south of the corner of Highway 17 and 210 West, and just south of Hardee’s, the shop is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesday and Sunday.
Hampstead Women's Club continues renovating and updating its rental facility. Central to both Jacksonville and Wilmington, rates are reasonable, parking is ample and with the new interior paint providing a neutral background to your décor, it can transform into the setting you desire. Call for rates, availability and other information at 910-270-9549.
Hampstead Women’s Club has just awarded its annual scholarships to some deserving local Topsail High School seniors, and this, along with the hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations HWC has made over its long history, is made possible by the generous donations of the Hampstead community and by the hard work of our dedicated volunteers and shop staff. The club, open to men and women, meets the second Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. in the banquet hall. Check out the website at www.HampsteadWomensClub.org
The Hampstead Women’s Club is a non-profit organization that donates thousands of dollars annually to area schools and other worthwhile organizations. This is made possible through the efforts of the members who volunteer daily to process donated goods and sell them at the Hampstead Thrift Shop.
Join the many volunteers in the Hampstead Women’s Club and help contribute to the betterment of the children and community. General meetings are held the second Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Hampstead Community Bldg. at 14435 Highway 17. Membership applications may be secured from the Hampstead Thrift Shop.
Events and Celebrations
‘Cash For Candy’
Local dentist takes a stand against sweets this Halloween
One area dentist is redefining the phrase “Put your money where your mouth is.”
This Halloween, trick-or-treaters can bring their excess candy to Dr. Deana Fugate at Surf City Dental and receive $1 per pound. Dr. Fugate is leading this anti-decay movement by giving away money in exchange for cavity-provoking candy.
“Ditch the candy, that’s what we’re saying. Visiting your dentist twice a year and brushing daily are great preventative measures, but doing away with excess sweets altogether would really give your teeth a healthy boost,” says Dr. Fugate.
“Kids can still have all of the fun of trick-or-treating, and now their piggy banks will benefit as well.
Global sugar consumption for kids increases by about two percent annually and currently sits at 50 million tons per year, which means parents need to be sure their kids teeth are being cared for more than ever.
Candy, as well as hurting children’s teeth, can lead to hyperactivity and weight gain. In some cases, the wrong types of candy can also lead to broken teeth and damaged braces.
Candy will be collected at Surf City Dental the day after Halloween, November 1, only from 3 to 6 p.m. The candy must be unopened. Children up to age 13 must be accompanied by an adult. All candy received will be sent to our troops overseas.
For more information contact 910-329-0298, or visit SurfCityDental.com.
N.C. Honey Plants presentation
Free: Retired N.C. Apiary Inspector Bill Sheppard will offer a presentation on N.C. Honey Plants on Tuesday, November 13, at 7 p.m. in the barn at Poplar Grove Plantation. Bill Sheppard is widely regarded as the leading expert on N.C. honey plants. He has amassed an amazing collection of N.C. honey plant photographs over his lifetime. The meeting is free and open to the public, and sponsored by the Cape Fear Beekeepers Association. Anyone interested in attending who needs directions or has questionscan contact Barry Harris at 910-352-7868.
Topsail Chili Festival
Friday, November 16 and Saturday, November 17 at the Sneads Ferry Community Center. Be a vendor, cook or just come and have fun! Call the Topsail Chamber at 910-329-4446 for more info.
5th annual Turkey Trot
8K Run, Two-Mile Run and Kids’ Sprint — Hampstead Kiwanis Park will host the 5th annual Turkey Trot on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 9 a.m. There will be an 8k road race winding through beautiful tree-lined neighborhoods along the Intracoastal Waterway; or choose a timed, family friendly two-mile Fun Run completely within the park; and for the beginner athlete, there’s the 1/2-mile Kids Sprint for age nine and younger (all kids receive a medal)!
Registration can be completed online at kiwanisclubofhampstead.orguntil Nov. 14. Register by mail by printing a form from the website and mailing it to the Kiwanis Club of Hampstead (address is listed on the form). You may also register in person and/or pick up your Race Packet on Nov. 15 at TrySports in Wilmington from 5 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 16 at the Pre-Race Pasta dinner at the Hampstead Community Building from 5 to 7 p.m. Registration is also accepted on race day at the park from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Register by Oct. 27 to be guaranteed a t-shirt, they sell out every year! 100 percent of proceeds benefit the community, directly going towards the park fitness stations, walking path, ball fields and children’s playground.
New this year is Family Sponsorship: $40 per line on the race t-shirts. Space is limited, so visit kiwanisclubofhampstead.org and click the link for Family Sponsorship.
Join the fun, great entertainment, kids’ crafts and an exiting competitive course for serious athletes! The park is located at 586 Sloop Point Loop Rd.
Chili’n For Children Fundraiser and Cell Phones For Soldiers event
The Chili’n For Children Fundraiser and Cell Phones For Soldiers event will take place Sunday, Nov. 18 at Gilligan’s from 1 to 5 p.m. 100 percent of proceeds go toward Neighbors Helping Neighbors to buy Christmas presents for children in need. First prize is a three-hour private show from Saltwater Cowboy Matt Bowlin!
A ticket to taste chili and vote for your favorite is $5. Cook-off entrants must have chili on hand by 12:30 p.m. No entry fee to enter your chili in the cook-off; however, cook-off entrants are asked to register at
http://tiparrotheads.webs.com/ or by sending an email to parrothead.titw@gmail.com. All prizewinners will be announced starting at 6 p.m. Other prizes and giveaways to be awarded to ticket holders. Must be present to win. Also, bring your used cell phones for Cell Phones for Soldiers! Come on out for some food, football, fun, prizes, specials and more!
Turkey Creek VFD’s annual Turkey Shoot
Turkey Creek Volunteer Fire Department to host its annual Turkey Shoot on Nov. 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17 beginning at 6 p.m. $3 a shot. TCVFD is located at the corner of Old Folkstone Rd. and Tar Landing Rd. Door prizes and refreshments available. All proceeds go to VCVFD, proudly serving the community since 1974.
7th annual Jingle Bell Ball
The Historical Society of Topsail Island will host its 7th annual Jingle Bell Ball on Saturday, December 1 at 6:30 p.m. For tickets or information, call Michael Nelson at 910.547.8312. For reserved sponsor tables, contact Marcia Hamilton at 910.358.1298 or email kmhamilton-1@charter.net.
WinterFest
Don’t miss the annual Sneads Ferry WinterFest to be held on December 7 and 8 at the Sneads Ferry Community Center. Friday night activities begin at 7 p.m. and include the “Lighting of the Trees” and a Christmas Musical Program. On Saturday morning, the children can enjoy “Breakfast with Santa” from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday also includes a fantastic “Arts and Crafts Show” from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with great ideas for special Christmas gifts. Food and drink will be available for purchase on Saturday. Free admission. Call 910-327-1721 for vendor information.
Gardening News
Pick up a copy of the new“Garden by the Month” calendar for just $9. Developed and written by Pender County Master Gardeners, this valuable resource is chopped full of gardening advice for local conditions. The calendar features monthly tips and tasks that will keep your lawn, landscape and food garden on schedule. Proceeds support Pender County Cooperative Extension’s horticultural outreach programs.
Ask a Master Gardener the second Wed. of each month through Nov., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Poplar Grove Farmer's Market
More ways to get answers to your questions: Not able to make it to any of these locations? No problem. Gardening questions can be answered Mon. through Fri. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling your local Cooperative Extension office: In Pender County, call 259-1235. Or visit www.ces.ncsu.edu whereyou can post your questions to be answered via theAsk an Expert widget. Stay up to date on the latest lawn, garden and landscape news from the Pender Gardener Blog: pendergardener.blogspot.com.
Poplar Grove Farmers’ Market
Wednesdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. now through November 21! Shop for local, farm-fresh foods and beautiful craftsat Cape Fear's favorite farmers’market. Located right on Highway 17 at the Pender County line, Poplar Grove’s Farmers’Market is easy to find and has acres of free parking. The market, now in its sixth year, has the perfect blend of food, treasures and funin an idyllic, country setting. Find out more at poplargrove.com.
Arts/ Exhibits
Onslow Idol
Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Onslow County holds “Onslow Idol” open auditions during after school hours through November 30, 2012. High school students 15 years of age and older and in good academic standing can call 910-340-1358 or 910-340-1558 for details and to schedule an audition. Other rules apply, so visit bgceasternnc.org for details. The winner will be sent to the 2013 American Idol auditions!
Sneads Ferry Community Theatre…
… invites you to a Murder Mystery Dessert Theatre production of “A Plot of Murder” by Lee Mueller. Come to the HOA meeting of Fleur Estates Manor! This homeowners meeting gets so heated that someone ends up dead! Calling all super sleuths, gumshoes and detectives to help solve this mystery.
Tickets are $10 and reservations are required for all show dates; call 910-327-2798. Remaining show dates are November 3 and 4. Saturday’s show times are 7 p.m. and Sunday’s show times are 3 p.m. Reservations for the second weekend must be made before 6 p.m. on November 1.
The show is presented at the Sneads Ferry Community Center located at 126 Park Lane in Sneads Ferry. For more information and to make reservations, call 910-327-2798.
Missiles and More Museum
The Missiles and More Museum is open the season and features Topsail Island’s rich history and artifacts of the island from prehistoric to present time. See page 16 for full description of exhibits.
• Operation Bumblebee, the U.S. missile project that operated on Topsail Island shortly after World War II, which includes a video of assembly and actual firings of the missiles. On site is a booster rocket that washed ashore in 1994.
• Camp Davis, an important antiaircraft training center during WWII located near Topsail Island.
• Pirates of the Carolinas, depicting the history and “colorful” stories of ten pirates in the Carolinas, including the infamous Blackbeard and Topsail Island’s own pirate history “The Gold Hole.”
• Barrier Island, an exhibit that addresses the physiology, fragility, manageability and the magic and privilege of living on Topsail Island.
• Osprey, The V-22 Osprey aircraft exhibit depicts the development, history, unique design and military use within the Marine Corps and other Armed Forces. This exhibit also includes a DVD of a takeoff at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville.
• Shell Exhibits, cases of elegant and intricate seashells from all over the world, as well as Topsail Island.
• Natural History, Indian artifacts and a dugout canoe dating back to the 1700s.
The Museum is child friendly with exhibits on North Carolina birds, a touch and feel Shell/Sand Box, Sea Turtles and educational and fun books to read. A fossil dig located outside of the Museum is a favorite adventure for children of all ages.
The Museum is located at 720 Channel Blvd. in Topsail Beach. Current hours through mid-October are: Mon. through Fri. 2 to 5 p.m. The Museum welcomes special arrangements for schools and organizations to tour the Museum. For information and appointments, contact the museum director at 910-328-2488 or 910-328-8663. topsailmissilesmusuem.org.
‘Send Us Your Best Shot!’
Send us your “Best Shots” of island life for October! Send images, your name and captions to carrie.bryan@jdnews.com to be included in the next “Best Shot” showcase. October submissions must be received by the second week in November.
ArtExposure
Classes and events are now scheduled! A variety of classes, workshops and events are on the roster for both children and adults. Check out the ArtExposure website, www.artexposure50.com, to see the full schedule.
Sports
Indoor Youth Soccer and Surf City Youth Basketball
SURF CITY – On the heels of a successful soccer season, Surf City Athletics is pleased to offer two more sports offerings this winter. Returning is the Futsal version of indoor youth soccer and Surf City Youth Basketball is making its debut!
“We are so excited at the level of community interest for youth sports that we are glad to bring kids into our gym for them this winter,” says Director of Parks and Recreation Kristie Grubb.
Registration is now available for these two co-ed offerings at www.townofsurfcity.com and the cost is only $35 for U-9, U-12 and U-16 divisions. Youth basketball play for those groups will take place on Saturday mornings followed by Indoor Soccer. An eight-game season is scheduled with practices starting in December with games beginning in January. Surf City is also hosting U-6 Youth Basketball for four and five year olds with practices and scrimmages on Fridays from 4:30 to 7 pm. The cost for this beginning level program is only $30 and it will begin in January.
All youth basketball players will receive a uniform shirt, playing time of at least half of every game and end of season awards.
“We need coaches for all age groups and know there is a wealth of talent in our basketball community,” says Athletic Supervisor Steve Unger. “The indoor soccer program is designed to promote skill development in a non-judgmental setting.”
This fall, nearly 275 players populated the Surf City (outdoor) Soccer League in only its third season and closing ceremonies are set for Nov. 10 along with a U-16 Tournament. In addition, registration for Surf City Flag Football remains open for youth ages six to 12.
What’s more, Surf City is also planning adult sports: Basketball, Indoor Soccer and Volleyball for winter along with Youth Cheerleading. Details are forthcoming. In addition to online registration from any computer, participants can also register at the Surf City Community Center, 201 Community Center Drive anytime during regular hours. Credit cards, checks and cash are all welcome. For more information, call Surf City Athletics through Parks and Recreation at (910)328-4887, e-mail at athletics@townofsurfcity.com or see Surf City Athletics on Facebook.
Surf City Fun Run to prelude tree lighting
Race on over and register for Surf City Parks & Recreation’s first ever 5K Family Fun Run! The event is open to all ages and skill levels. This event will carry on the SCP&R Team’s promotion of fun and fitness for all! Online registration is now available at www.townofsurfcity.com or directly at www.scfunrun.playerspace.com.
The event is slated to start at 4 p.m. on November 17 at Surf City Community Center. The scenic neighborhood course, race shirt, refreshments and prizes will make it an occasion you and your family won’t want to miss. The after-party for this event will be the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Soundside Park at 6 p.m., complete with refreshments, entertainment, tree lighting and a visit from Santa.
“The end to wonderful running class, an awesome first 5K and the spectacular Christmas Tree Lighting, November 17 is truly going to be an incredibly breathtaking day from start to finish!” said Town of Surf City Parks & Recreation Director, Kristie Grubb.
The cost is $15 for Surf City Community Center Members, $20 for Non-Members and $5 for kids (kids price does not include a t-shirt). Register by November 9 to be guaranteed a shirt. Sponsors are needed and must contact the center prior to November 1 to secure a spot on the shirt. Call (910) 328-4887 for info.
5th annual Turkey Trot
8K Run, Two-Mile Run and Kids’ Sprint — Hampstead Kiwanis Park will host the 5th annual Turkey Trot on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 9 a.m. There will be an 8k road race winding through beautiful tree-lined neighborhoods along the Intracoastal Waterway; or choose a timed, family friendly two-mile Fun Run completely within the park; and for the beginner athlete, there’s the 1/2-mile Kids Sprint for age nine and younger (all kids receive a medal)!
Registration can be completed online at kiwanisclubofhampstead.orguntil Nov. 14. Register by mail by printing a form from the website and mailing it to the Kiwanis Club of Hampstead (address is listed on the form). You may also register in person and/or pick up your Race Packet on Nov. 15 at TrySports in Wilmington from 5 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 16 at the Pre-Race Pasta dinner at the Hampstead Community Building from 5 to 7 p.m. Registration is also accepted on race day at the park from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Register by Oct. 27 to be guaranteed a t-shirt, they sell out every year! 100 percent of proceeds benefit the community, directly going towards the park fitness stations, walking path, ball fields and children’s playground.
New this year is Family Sponsorship: $40 per line on the race t-shirts. Space is limited, so visit kiwanisclubofhampstead.org and click the link for Family Sponsorship.
Join the fun, great entertainment, kids’ crafts and an exiting competitive course for serious athletes! The park is located at 586 Sloop Point Loop Rd.
Sharks help bring flag football to Surf City
SURF CITY – Ready! Hut-hut! Go Sharks! The Surf City Sharks are the area’s newest semi-pro football team, now organizing for the Spring 2013 season. As an important part of their community mission they are assisting the Town of Surf City Recreation Department in launching a late fall Flag Football league designed for youngsters from six to 12 years old.
Signups are now underway through www.surfcityflagfootball.playerspace.com or through Recreation/Athletics on the Town of Surf City site: www.townofsurfcity.com. The cost is $30 for online registration. Registrations can also be completed at Surf City Community Center during business hours where cash and checks will also be accepted.
Practices will be on Saturdays and games on Sundays, both at 1:30 p.m. Games will run from November 4 through December 16 — rain, sleet, snow or shine.
“We are totally thrilled to be involved with football in Surf City,” says Sharks Managing Partner Bryan Ayers.
“We are really glad to help get it off the ground and help introduce the game to a new generation.”
Sharks players will assist with developing skills, coaching and officiating.
The Surf City Athletic complex includes a full-size football field, which will be the home of the Sharks in Spring 2013. The youth program Flag Football will utilize an age-appropriate grid within it. Players are slated to complete in 7-vs-7 no tackle games that will last approximately one hour in length. Additional coaches and other volunteers are also welcome.
For more information call Surf City Parks and Recreation at 910-328-4887.
Surf City Parks & Recreation is looking for a few good men, women and children!
SCP&R is expanding their athletic programs to maximize facility use. The plan is to implement a variety of camps, clinics and leagues for youth and adults including, but not limited to: tennis ladder and lessons; fall soccer leagues, indoor winter and spring soccer for youth and adult; fall football league for youth and adult; youth cheer squad for fall and winter; fall Baseball/Softball/Tee ball league for youth and adults; winter basketball league for youth and adults; winter indoor dodge ball league for adults.
SCP&R would like to hear from you — where your interests lie and input and ideas you may have. Would you like to serve on any committees? Would you or your children like to participate in any programs? Would you like to assist, coach or sponsor any programs? Email athletics@townofsurfcity.com to give feedback and express interest.
Volunteer
T.I.A.R. collects coats for community
Coat drives help local people in need stay warm! November 1st through December 31 — The need has never been greater and it’s never been easier to make a difference in your community. Here is your opportunity to make sure that nobody goes without such a basic necessity as a coat this winter.
Topsail Island Association of REALTORS® is collecting clean, gently used coats and jackets as part of the One Warm Coat community service project. Coats of all shapes sizes are welcome. One Warm Coat is dedicated to distributing reusable coats, free of charge, directly to local children and adults. The program is an easy way for you and your family to pass along coats and jackets that you no longer need.
The Topsail Island Association of REALTORS® has made donating a coat simple. Just bring your clean, gently used coats and jackets to the Topsail Island Association of REALTORS® office located at 13775 NC Hwy. 50, Surf City from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday from now until December 31, or call 910-329-1406 to
arrange a pick up. Then Topsail Island Association of REALTORS® will take care of the rest. All donated coats will be distributed to local people within our community who are in need.
Topsail Island Association of REALTORS along with your help is “Warming our community… one coat at a time!” For more, visit onewarmcoat.org.
Chili Cook-Off opportunities
Topsail's officially sanctioned Competitive Chili Cook-Off has available opportunities for: volunteers, sponsors and vendors! The event will take place Friday, November 16 and Saturday, November 17 at the Sneads Ferry Community Center. Contact the Topsail Chamber at 910-329-4446 or info@topsailchamber.org for additional information!
Winterfest
Winterfest 2012 is now accepting vendor applications for the Arts and Crafts show. For more information, call 327-1721. Winterfest will be held on December 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sneads Ferry Community Center.
Pender County Relay For Life 2013
Next year’s Pender County Relay For Life is scheduled for May 3 and 4, 2013 at Topsail High School’s football and track field. If at anytime between now and then, you would be interested in volunteering your time to a great cause and a great community, contact Relay Co-Chairs Stephanie Ottaway at shotopsail@gmail.com or 910-470-3603, or Stephanie Hollis at sshollis@gmail.com or 910-470-5506. All proceeds from the event benefit the American Cancer Society/ Pender County Relay For Life.
The Dixon Elementary CHEW!
The Dixon Elementary CHEW! (Children Healthy Eating on Weekends) Program assists children in our community by providing backpacks filled with child-friendly, easy to prepare meals throughout the weekend. In partnership with local businesses, churches and United Way of Onslow County, this program’s simple mission provides a lifeline to those children who may otherwise go without food outside of school.
How can you help?CHEW! is in need of donations to stock and maintain a supply of non-perishable food items that will provide nutrition for approximately 40 of our students each weekend.
For additional information contact Kim Nelson, School Social Worker at 327-2392 or kim.nelson@onslow.k12.nc.us
Mama J’s Helping Hand
Mama J’s Helping Handhas a few families that need help for school clothing and school supplies! Needed are supplies for two 5th graders, a 7th grader, an 8th grader and an 11th grader. They also need school clothing and shoes. Perhaps a gift card for each to Walmart for the clothing and shoes would be best and Mama J’s will provide a list for the school supplies. Needs: girls book bags, dividers, pencils, loose-leaf paper, highlighters, erasers, binders, pens, pocket folders, composition books, scissors, rulers, glue sticks, pencil pouch, spiral notebooks and crayons.
Any help would be most appreciated. For clothing and shoe sizes call Mama J’s Helping Hand at 910-327-1302, located at 2205 Hwy 172 in Sneads Ferry. Email jeanette0621@yahoo.com.
Mama J’s Helping Hand Diaper Drive: In need are diapers any size. Donate at least one pack and help spread the word. Mama J’s Helping Hand is located at 2205 Hwy. 172 in Sneads Ferry. Call 910-327-1302. Mama J’s helps people in need by providing them with food, clothing, household goods and baby items like diapers, wipes, formula and clothing. Mama J’s also helps people who are struggling with everyday issues and welcomes them to come in and talk.
Volunteers needed for Medical Reserve Corps of Onslow County
Mission statement:The mission of the Medical Reserve Corps of Onslow County is to serve as a healthcare resource to the Eastern North Carolina region. The Medical Reserve Corps of Onslow County will support and assist local governments, agencies and area hospitals with emergency medical operations and vital public and community health activities.
For Your Information
Discover Topsail
The Topsail Chamber is working on behalf of its membership to promote the Topsail region to visitors. Keep an eye out for an updated 2013 marketing campaign for visitors to our region, including a new website, social media, emphasis on outdoor activities and the environment (yes, sea turtles!), the arts, the culinary experience, pet-friendly beaches and relocation. The Chamber is now selling ads for the 2013 Discover Topsail Area Guide. Call the Topsail Chamber at 910-329-4446 to learn more.
Legion collects tattered flags
The Town of Surf City is working with American Legion Honor Guard Post 167 to collect tattered American Flags and make sure they are disposed of properly. Drop off your flags at: Surf City Town Hall, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Baby FAST program needs donations
TAFF Inc. is a nonprofit providing services to young parents and their families. Support the Baby FAST program in Pender County that strengthens family relationships, builds connections with families, schools, churches and the community, improves babies’ development and well being, and reduces in-home stress. Donations of the following Baby Items will support this program and local families: Baby Lotion or Powder, Sippy Cups, Receiving Blankets, Baby Books, Rattles or Teethers, Baby Room Decorations.
To make a donation or learn more, contact Melanie Gatton at mgatton@taffinc.org or 910-777-8244. A healthy meal for 35 people for one of the multi-family, group sessions is also needed.
Parks and Recreation/ Classes
Pender County Alzheimers Support Group
Stonebridge Assisted Living & Memory Care presents an Alzheimers support group the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. The program includes a guest presenter each month and serves as a basic training program for caregivers to share concerns and questions about caring for a loved one with Alzheimers or dementia. Schedule:November 8: Martin Case, JD, QP; December 13: Kim Wexler, PAC. For more information, contact (910)515-1365. Stonebridge is located at 2778 Country Club Rd. in Hampstead.
Surf City Parks and Recreation
All classes and events take place at Surf City Community Center, unless otherwise noted. The address is 201 Community Center Dr. (off J.H. Batts Rd. on the mainland).
Current Classes:
Adult Tap Dance (Beginner): Tuesday, 9 to 10 a.m.
Advanced Bridge: Monday, 12 to 4 p.m.
Basketball (Open Play for 18 and older): Tuesday, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Beginning Bridge: Wednesday, 1 to 4 p.m.
Intro to Belly Dance: Thursdays, 6 to 7:15 p.m.
Dance: Mondays, 4:45 to 5:30 p.m. for age 3; 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. for ages 6 to 8.
Lego Club (Ages 5 to 9): Friday, 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Quilting: Tuesday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Readers’ Theater: (Ages 12 to adult): Monday, 7 to 8 p.m.
Scrabble: Tuesday, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Soccer (Open Play ages 16 and older): Thursday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Tae kwon do (Beginner): Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Cheer Tumbling: Mondays, 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. for ages 9 and older.
Tumbling: Mondays, 3:30 to 4 p.m. for ages 3 to 5; 4 to 4:30 p.m. for ages 6 to 8.
Pilates: Thursdays, 10:30 to11:30 a.m.
Pi-Yo: Saturday, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Power Yoga: Sundays, 10 to 11 a.m.
Preschool Playtime: Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Walk to Run: Tuesdays, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 8 to 9 a.m.
Yoga (Gentle): Mondays, 7 to 8 p.m.
Yoga (Gentle): Tuesdays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Yoga (Gentle): Wednesday, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m.
Power Yoga: Thursdays, 7 to 8 p.m.
Zumba: Monday, 7:15 to 8:15 p.m.
Zumba: Tuesday, 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.
Personal Training:
Christina Lewis: Flexible schedule. Call (910) 548-2964.
Wellness Groups:
Alcoholics Anonymous: Sunday 10 to 11 a.m., Wednesday 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Thursday, 12 to 1 p.m.
Cape Fear Community College classes at SCCC:
• GED Course: Monday and Thursday, 5:50 to 9 p.m. Free. Call (910) 362-7349 to register.
Schedule: The Surf City Community Center continually works on its schedule. If you would be interested in attending any current activities or teaching a new class, contact the center at 910-328-4887 or email parksandrec@townofsurfcity.com.The current class schedule is also available online at www.townofsurfcity.com
Onslow County Parks and Recreation Department upcoming events
• Spooktacular Fun: OCP&RD and Haw Run Rescue invite you participate in the Spooktacular Fun at Onslow Pines Park on Friday and Saturday October 26 and 27 from 6 to 10 p.m. Fun for all ages: a Haunted Trail Ride, $5 adults and $3 kids, Frightfully Fun Costume Contest Saturday at 7 p.m. that is open to all ages, a Pumpkin Junction for the youngsters with inflatables, train ride, concessions, and more! All proceeds benefit Haws Run Rescue. Call (910)347-5332 visit www.onslowcountync.gov/parks.
• Halloween Costume Contest & Matinee Movie: OCP&RD and Carmike Cinema 16 are sponsoring a Halloween Costume Contest & Matinee Movie. The event is being held Saturday, October 27 at Carmike Cinema 16, behind the Jacksonville Mall, starting at 9 a.m. The cost for this year’s event isthree cannedgoods per person (which will be donated to OnslowCounty Christmas Cheer). Open to all children 12 years old and younger; parents are encouraged to attend. First-, second- and third-place prizes will be awarded to contest winners in several age groups. Free goody bags! Call 347-5332 visit www.onslowcountync.gov/parks.
For Your Information
Lions and volunteers check students’ vision
The Lions Clubs of Hampstead and Burgaw are starting their annual effort, working with the school nurses, to screen students in Pender County for vision problems. Members of the two Lions Clubs are assisted by a large number of community volunteers in this effort. The Lions and volunteers screen all first, third, fifth, and seventh grade students in Pender County. When the project is finished in December, about 2500 students in thirteen different schools will have been screened.
Vision screeners are trained by instructors from Prevent Blindness NC, an agency dedicated to preventing blindness, preserving and restoring sight, and promoting good vision for all N.C. residents. The screeners are trained to look for eye infection or injury and to screen the students for visual acuity. Visual acuity is the ability to see distant objects clearly. Two-person teams, using standard eye charts, determine whether each student shows signs of problems. If a problem is identified, the school nurse retests the student. If she confirms a problem, the students’ parents are contacted and they are advised to seek professional care.
Lion Mitch Jenkins, coordinator for the Lions Vision Screening project states, “This screening program benefits all the school children in Pender County, and we are thankful for many the Lions and community volunteers for giving of their time to this vital program.”
It is estimated that one in four students has a vision problem. In many cases, these problems have previously been recognized, and the problems have been corrected, usually with glasses. Surprisingly, the screening effort always finds a large number of students with vision problems, which have not been previously recognized by parents or teachers. Sometimes these problems occur as eyes change shape during the child’s growth spurts. It is always rewarding for volunteers to realize they have helped students get their vision corrected so that they have a better chance to achieve their full potential in the classroom. The Lions are grateful to have this opportunity to serve the residents of Pender County.
Health Department Urges Residents to Make Flu Vaccination a Top Priority
(Onslow County) Less than half of Onslow County residents received a flu shot in 2010. While this was an increase over the 37 percent who received the vaccination in 2009, the Onslow County Health Department would like to increase that percentage even more.
“Our goal this year is to increase the number of people who are protected from the flu to at least 50 percent,” stated George O’Daniel, Onslow County Health Director.
“We already have seen a few cases of seasonal flu this fall, so it is not too early to protect yourself,” said State Health Director Laura Gerald. “We know that annual vaccination is the best defense against flu and this year’s vaccine appears to be a good match to the strains we expect to see this season.”
While even healthy people can develop serious complications from the flu, young children, pregnant women, people older than 65 years old, and those with chronic health conditions are generally at higher risk. According to Francine Reeves, Clinical Services Director at the Onslow County Health Department, “During 2010 alone, 15 people in Onslow County died from flu and pneumonia; four out of five of the deaths occurred in people over the age of 65.”
In addition to the vaccine, Reeves also recommends: Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then discarding the tissue promptly; Washing hands frequently, preferably with soap and water or an approved hand sanitizer; Staying home when you are sick until you are fever free for at least 24 hours.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has ordered more than 600,000 doses of vaccine to provide to local health departments and health care providers participating in the Vaccines for Children Program. The State, through the local health departments, is also offering free vaccines to college students and those in contact with infants under the age of 6 months – such as new parents, grandparents, and child care providers.
Flu immunizations are recommended for anyone over 6 months of age and are available as: Nasal sprays for healthy people two to 49 years of age who are not pregnant; Regular flu shots for children older than 6 months and adults; Intradermal flu shots for people 18 to 64 years of age. These shots are injected into the skin instead of the muscle and use smaller needles than regular flu shots; and High-dose flu shots for people 65 and older. These shots trigger the body to produce more antibodies against the flu virus.
To make getting the flu shot more convenient, the Onslow County Health Department is offering a late immunization clinic on Thursday evenings. Additionally, Health Department immunization staff will come to any business or organization that has at least 20 employees, clients, or patients who need the flu vaccine. Last year, the Onslow County Health Department administered over 500 flu shots at outreach clinics provided to local businesses, schools, and agencies in addition to the thousands of shots provided through its routine immunization clinics.
Flu shots are offered at the Onslow County Health Department to those who walk-in from 12:30 to 4 p.m., Monday through Wednesday and Friday and from 12:30 to 6 p.m. on Thursdays.
For more information about the flu vaccine or to schedule an outreach immunization clinic, contact the Onslow County Health Department at 910-347-2154, ext. 3992.
Addiction Counseling
Narconon reminds families that abuse of addictive pharmaceutical drugs is on the rise. Learn to recognize the signs of drug abuse and get your loved ones help if they are at risk. Call Narconon for a free brochure on the signs addiction for all types of drugs. Narconon also offers free assessments and referrals. 877-413-3073 or www.drugsno.com.
