More Businesses Participating in "Be A Tourist In Your Own Hometown"

The Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce wants to announce additional businesses that are participating in the New Hanover County "Be A Tourist In Your Hometown" Day Event since our last post on this topic: "Be A Tourist In Your Own Hometown"

Newly announced Pleasure Island Chamber businesses participating in this event by offering specials or discounts:

Carolina Beach Furniture - 12 pm - 4 pm. 10% of all merchandise, excluding"pink sign" items
1021 N. Lake Park Blvd.
Carolina Beach, NC
910-458-7050

Costco #635 - 10 am - 5 pm. New sign ups receive a $10 Costco Cash Card
5351 Gingerwood Drive
Wilmington, NC
910-798-3260

Spoiled to the Bone Mobile Pet Grooming - 10% off a basic grooming anytime in March
910-368-7416

Be sure to take advantage of all these great specials happening on Sunday, March 1st!

Beach Dogs T-Shirts Now Available

You've eaten their famous fresh cut french fries, now show your continued support with the Official Beach Dogs t-shirts!

Owner Bill Reaves is selling the shirts at the Beach Dogs Restaurant, 304 North Lake Park Blvd.

Got-Em-On Live Bait Club's Annual Chowder Cook-Off

Got-Em-On Live Bait Club is holding their annual "Chowder Cook Off" and "Dessert Contest" on Saturday, February 28th at Snow's Cut Park on River Road.

The event starts at 1:00 pm and prizes will be awarded in both the Chowder and the Dessert categories.

Don't miss it! For more information, visit Got-Em-On Live.

Be A Tourist In Your Own Hometown - New Hanover County

This Sunday, March 1st, marks the 14th Annual "Be A Tourist In Your Own Hometown." This is an appreciation day for residents in New Hanover County, NC. Businesses from across the county will be offering special discounts on their services only on this day for all New Hanover County residents that can show proper identification.

This is a way for the various attractions to thank residents for their continued support and also to familiarize them with area tourism assets.

This year, The Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that a number of our members will be offering specials to help celebrate this great event. For a detailed listing of businesses in and around Wilmington, NC who will also be participating, please visit www.CapeFearCoast.com/hometown.

Pleasure Island Chamber Hometown Day Participating Businesses:

C&J's Cleaning Service: 15% off first time cleaning (residential & commercial).
910-622-1072

Carolina Beach State Park: 8am - 8pm. Free admission.
1010 State Park Road
Carolina Beach, NC
910-458-8206

Coastal K-9 Bakery: 15% off all organic dog treats.
5905 #9 Carolina Beach Road
Wilmington, NC
910-794-4014

Federal Point History Center: 1pm - 4pm. Refreshments available.
1121-A N. Lake Park Blvd.
Carolina Beach, NC
910-458-0502

Fort Fisher State Historic Site: 1pm - 5pm. Special cannon firings throughout the afternoon.
1610 Fort Fisher Blvd. South
Kure Beach, NC
910-458-5538

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area: 8am - 5pm. Visitor center, free access to the 4WD beach.
1000 Loggerhead Road
Kure Beach, NC
910-458-5798

Jack Mackerel's Island Grill: 11am - 4pm. Buy 2 lunch entrees, receive a free quiche with fruit
113 K Avenue
Kure Beach, NC
910-458-7668

Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park: 1pm - 4pm. 1 free round of Jungle Golf OR 1 free Go-Kart ride OR 1 free Wall Climb
5320 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, NC
910-791-0666

N.C. Military History Museum: 12pm - 4 pm.
116 Air Force Way
Kure Beach, NC
910-477-0499

Pleasure Island Photography: Book a sitting session in March for $30
910-470-6804

The Fudgeboat: 20% off for all residents
107 Carolina Beach Avenue North
Carolina Beach, NC
910-458-5823

Wheel Fun Rentals: 10am - 2pm. Free Paddle Boat & Bicycle Rentals
Carolina Beach Lake Park and
107 Carolina Beach Avenue North
Carolina Beach, NC
910-458-4545

Marina at Carolina Beach State Park - Closed for Renovations

As summer approaches and visitors begin to flock to Pleasure Island, we would like to remind you that the Marina at Carolina Beach State Park is currently closed. They are performing renovations to the docks as well as dredging the marina.

Anyone wishing to camp at the State Park must register at the Visitor's Center.

Please stay tuned with The Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce for news about the re-opening of the Marina.

For more information, please visit the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation and our page about Carolina Beach State Park.

2009 Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce Visitor Guides

The 2009 Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce Visitor Guides are now available! Feel free to pick some up from our office in the Carolina Beach Town Hall.

In our effort to "go green," this year's guide was printed on Recycled Paper.

The Pleasure Island Visitors Guide is distributed to all of the Welcome Centers in North Carolina, to everyone who calls for a vacation package, and is also distributed throughout Brunswick County, along the Cape Fear Coast, the U.S. Hwy 17 Corridor, the Interstate 95 Corridor, and the Topsail Island area.

For information about being included in the 2010 Visitor Guide, please contact the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce.

Financial Check-Up Clinic - First Citizen's Bank

Finances Need a Checkup??

The First Citizen's Bank in Carolina Beach, NC will be holding a Financial Check-Up Clinic with a Financial Planner and Mortgage Banker on hand to answer your questions.

Details:

• What: First Citizen's Bank Financial Check-Up Clinic
• When: Thursday, February 19th from 1 pm to 5 pm
• Where: First Citizen's Bank, 612 North Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach, NC

Stop in and meet:

Financial Planner Bill Dotterer
and
Mortgage Bankers Linda Toth and Paula Humphrey

Or call 910-458-4441 for an appointment.

VITA Tax Preparation Hours Underway

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Preparation Assistance (VITA) Program is currently underway in Carolina Beach.

This is a FREE Service designed to help low-to-moderate income (generally $42,000 and below) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns.

The free tax service from VITA is available at the Carolina Beach Recreation Department, behind the Carolina Beach Town Hall on the following schedule:

Mondays / Wednesdays: 3 pm to 7pm
Tuesdays: 1 pm to 4 pm

For more information on VITA, please see the IRS webpage on Free Tax Return Preparation for You by Volunteers.

The Checkered Church Gift Shop - Spotlight on Business

The Checkered Church Gift Shop opened in July of '96 by Kathie and Mike Winseck, 'damn Yankees' from Erie, PA in the original Immaculate Conception Church building on Saint Joseph Street in Carolina Beach, NC. We left an area that averaged 100 inches of snow every winter and mostly overcast skies for the sunshine of Carolina Beach...no shovel needed! The Checkered Church's name reflects it's history but the store has become a favorite destination for seaside home accessories and beachy gifts for our visitors to take home.

The store specializes in local artwork and hand-made wood shelves, clocks, and small furniture pieces. The perfect gift can be personalized or custom made. We are open year-round with a great selection of greeting cards, candles, ornaments, foods...a little bit of everything, even a leash and collar for your pet. Though our winter hours are shorter, we can be reached at home (3140) if it's not between 10 am and 5 pm Wednesday through Saturday. Let us help!

Owner - Kathie Winseck

as submitted to the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce newsletter by Kathie Winseck

New Members of the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce - February 2009

Welcome Aboard New Members!

We're excited to have a number of new members to welcome this month. These businesses realized the importance of economic growth for Pleasure Island and have pledged their support by investing in your Chamber of Commerce. Plus, they will reap the benefits of membership including the Member 2 Member Discount Program, monthly networking socials, and more!

John Childers
Brew Thru - Carolina Beach drive through convenience store
910 N. Lake Park Blvd.
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
706-284-4293
jchildersnc@aol.com
www.brewthru.com

Johnie W. Davis
Sea & Tee Resort & Residential Properties, Inc. - real estate sales and construction
#22 Federal Point Shopping Center
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
910-231-8212
seaandtee@bellsouth.net

Jennifer Barker
Sheally Insurance Group - property / casualty insurance, homeowners, auto, commercial
34 Covil Avenue
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-452-9877
barkej10@nationwide.com
www.sheallyinsurancegroup.com

Scott Matheney
Staples - office supply store
5613 Carolina Beach Road, Suite #140
Wilmington, NC 28412
910-313-3160
cc1824@staplescopycenter.com
www.staples.com

Don Spry
US SBA - Small Business Administration
116 Emberwood Drive
Winnabow, NC 28479
704-249-2060
don.spry@sba.gov
www.sba.gov

Louise B. May
Associate Member
910-620-8428
louisebmay@charter.net

Judith A Malcuit
Associate Member
910-458-8049
jmalcuit@juno.com

Brew Thru Carolina Beach

Brew Thru will be opening its first franchise in Carolina Beach, NC this Spring (2009).

Brew Thru, the original drive-thru convenience store, has been around since 1977 providing the ultimate convenience to locals and tourists, friendly service, and of course their "world famous" t-shirts.

The 1st Annual Carolina Beach t-shirt is currently being designed and will be available when the store opens. Brew-Thru's five corporate stores are located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina from Corolia to Nags Head and are very pleased to move south!

John Childers, the franchisee and new resident to Carolina Beach is excited to open his doors this Spring. Stay tuned.....there will be a Ribbon Cutting!

More information at www.BrewThru.com.

Even More Valentine's Specials on Pleasure Island

We've learned of even more Valentine's Specials going on around Pleasure Island. We're sure you'll find the event or dining special that suits you best!

• Valentine's Dance at the Rec Center - The Carolina Beach Rec Center will be holding a Valentine's Day Dance for children 6-12 years old. Admission is $1.00 plus at least one can of food to benefit the Federal Point Help Center. One slice of pizza and a soft drink are included for each child. Additional slices of pizza will be sold for $1. For more information, please call (910) 458-2977.


• Seaside Grill Offers Valentine's Day Dinner Special - The Seaside Gill in the Courtyard Marriott in Carolina Beach, NC will be offering a Valentine's Dinner Special from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with live music from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The cost of the dinner is $35.00 per person. Choose from entrees including surf & turf, veal a la maison, and chicken florentine. Each entree selection is accompanied with an appetizer selection, soup, or salad and a divine dessert. For more information, please contact the Marriott at (910) 458-2030 or visit their website to see the Seaside Grill dining specials.


• Jack Mackerel's Island Grill Valentine's Dinner - Join Jack Mackerel's in Kure Beach, NC for dinner on Valentine's Day and enjoy dinner for 2 for $29.95 with 2 filet mignon medallions and jumbo blackened shrimp (or substitute with mini crab cakes), mashed potatoes, and vegetables. Or for an additional $14.95, substitute 2 lobster tails instead of the filet. Dinners come with chocolate covered strawberries and whipped cream. Jack's will also be offering their seafood ravioli for 1 available for only $19.95. (910) 458-7668.


• Romance Blooms at Tuscan Grill this Valentine's - Aside from their hard cover menu, Tuscan Grill in Carolina Beach, NC will be offering scrumptious dinner specials this Valentine's Day including boneless short ribs with a gourmet barbeque sauce, fresh crab stuffed flounder with a lemon chive butter sauce, seafood pasta with shrimp and crab in a rose cream sauce or you can choose shrimp or crab in a cream sauce to accompany your favorite steak.
  

Happy Valentine's Day!

From Gail and Aimee and the board of the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce:

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

www.PleasureIslandNC.org

Valentine's Day Specials on Pleasure Island

We hope you all enjoy a special Valentine's Day! Here are some additional Pleasure Island events to help you celebrate:

• The Fudgeboat around Town - The Fudgeboat will have a kiosk at Independence Mall on February 12, 13 & 14 to offer fresh dipped chocolate strawberries and their delicious butter and cream fudge for the Valentine's Day holiday.


• Dinner at Beau Rivage - On Saturday, February 14th, Beau Rivage will be offering a special Valentine's Day Dinner. Dinner hours are from 5 pm to 9 pm. Coast is $75 per couple and includes a four course meal, 2 glasses of champagne, and dessert. Reservations are recommended: 910-392-9021 x 6.


• Dinner at Tangerine Caribbean Grill - For those on a budget, head over to Tangerine Caribbean Grill for a four course meal for 2, including dessert, for just $39.95. Dinner includes your choice of 2 appetizers, salads, entrees, and dessert for two. Entrees include Blue Crab Cakes, Jerk Chicken, Island Spiced Port Chop, or a Grilled Ribeye. 910-707-0202.


• Shuckin' Shack Does It Again - In honor of Valentine's Day, the Shack will be offering LOBSTER! A 6 ounce tail will run $11.95 or you can opt for the full Lobster Dinner, including 1 tail, 1/2 pound of shrimp, 1 dozen clams, 2 pieces of corn and friens for $30.95. Another lobster tail can be added for only $6.95. And Sunday, the Shuckin' Shack offers all-you-can-eat oysters!

Speed Networking Lunch Today at Tangerine Caribbean Grill

Lani Minihan of Cape Fear Sudden Values would like to invite the businesses of Pleasure Island, NC to take part in a Business Speed Networking Lunch at Tangerine Caribbean Grill.

Details:

• What: Business Speed Networking Lunch
• When: Friday, February 13th from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm
• Where: Tangerine Caribbean Grill, Carolina Beach NC
• Info: Please RSVP to Lani at 910-233-0381. Seating is limited to 25.

Happy Networking!

Treat Your Valentine to Dinner at Michael's Seafood

In honor of Valentine's Day this Saturday, February 14th, 2009, Michael's Seafood on Carolina Beach, NC will be offering a special Valentine's four course meal including an appetizer, salad or soup, entree, and dessert all for only $30.00!

As an extra bonus, Champagne is included.

Michael's Seafood will also be offering their full menu.

Reservations are accepted by calling 910-458-7761.

Please visit Michael's Seafood online for a look at their menu and for details about their catering and party hosting services.

NC Labor Department Urges Businesses to Aplpy for Safety Awards

The NC Department of Labor is now accepting applications for Safety Awards through February 15th.

Information about Safety Awards is available on their website: NCDOL Safety Awards.

Or contact Eursula Joyner at 919-807-2908

2009 Special Olympics Polar Plunge - Coming Up!

You have just one more week to register for the 2009 Special Olympics Polar Plunge that takes place at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Saturday, February 21st at 11:00am.

Time to Get Chilly!

Please visit the following link for more information about registering for this event:

Special Olympics Polar Plunge

Island Colors Announces Valentine's Day / President's Day Sale

Island Colors in the Food Lion Shopping Center, Carolina Beach NC, will celebrate Valentine's Day and President's Day by holding a 25% - 75% off sale on selected ladies, men's, and kid's clothing, accessories, and footwear throughout the store.

Some of the great sale merchandise will include:

• Fresh Produce and Sunburn Sportswear
• Jimmy Buffett's Caribbean Soul and Sandalz Footwear
• Baked Beads
• Calypso Studios Glass Jewelry
• and more!

The Island Colors sale runs February 9th - 16th, 2009 during regular store hours.

Call 910-458-7736 for more information.

American Legion Post 129 Monthly Fish Fry

Don't miss the American Legion monthly fish fry this week in Carolina Beach!

Details:

• What: American Legion Post 129 monthly fish fry (Carolina Beach, NC)
• When: Friday, February 6th from 11 am to 7 pm
• Where: American Legion, 1500 Bridge Barrier Road, near the Carolina Beach Post Office
• Info: $8 per person, includes fresh fried fish with cole slaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, and hushpuppies. YUM!

Plus, there is free delivery with an order of 10 or more plates.

For more information, please contact the American Legion at 458-4253.

Details about Shanty's Beach & Blues Club Grand Opening

Shanty's Beach & Blues Club Grand Opening is this weekend!

Details:

• What: Shanty's Beach & Blues Club Grand Opening
• When: Friday, February 6th from 8 pm to 12 am
• Where: Shanty's, 103 N. Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach NC (just above El Zarape)
• Info: $5 for members and $10 for non-members.

Come out and enjoy DeeJay Salty Dawg and live music from the Holiday band on Friday night. Then come back on February 7th starting at noon for free hot dogs! From 7 pm to 12 am shag along with DJ Lanny Elmore.

Plus, Shanty's will be offering $2 domestic beers.

For more information, please call 599-3366.

Pleasure Island Drama Club presents "Big Bad"

Although Friday Night Live has been temporarily discontinued, the Pleasure Island Drama Club has plenty to offer including their very first production entitled "Big Bad" playing this weekend (2/6, 7, 8) at the Katie B. Hines Senior Center.

"Big Bad" is the story of the Big Bad Wolf who is slapped with a class-action lawsuit by the countless quirky characters he has wronged. Now, the two greatest legal minds in the Enchanted Forest, the Evil Stepmother and Fairy Godmother, will clash in a trial that will be remembered forever.

As a bonus, the audience will be able to participate as they are charged with being the jury and will decide the fate of the Big Bad Wolf.

"Big Bad" will be playing at the Katie B. Hines Senior Center on Cape Fear Blvd. February 6th, 7th, and 8th.

The cost is $5 per person.

Show times are 7:00 pm on Friday and Saturday and 3:00 pm on Sunday.

Tickets must be purchased in advance by calling 264-7379.

Fort Fisher Ferry to Re-Open Today, February 2nd

Ramp renovations for the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry terminals are now complete and the ferry is to resume its regular schedule today, Monday, February 2nd. The first ferry was scheduled to leave Southport at 5:30 a.m.

Anyone having a Commuter Pass that was valid during December or January can have their Pass expiration date extended for two months.

Please visit the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce website for the Fort Fisher Ferry Schedule.

You can also find the complete schedule on the NCDOT Ferry Schedule webpage.