Spotlight on Business - Carolina Beach Babe

Carolina Beach Babe is a full service Social Media Marketing company that delivers results by optimizing local Internet sites as well as Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter and custom designed Blogs. Carolina Beach Babe offers training and support for all current forms of Social Media presence.

Carolina Beach Babe (definition of Babe, Informal Sweetheart; dear. Used as a term of endearment)
defines the combination of sales experience and a love of the Island with the desire to assist local businesses, in season and more importantly, off season.

Carolina Beach Babe is owned by Debi DiNatale, a resident of Carolina Beach for nearly 5 years, formerly from Upstate New York and relocated to Cary NC in 1997, purchased a home in Carolina Beach in 2008 and with her husband renovated it into a Beach Vacation destination that has hosted over 100 families, Debi and her husband Tom, moved to the Beach permanently in 2010.

With the experience of hosting vacationing families and their needs, plus 25 years of experience in Business to Business Sales and Marketing in the very competitive markets of computer and telecom sales, this seasoned professional draws from a “hunter” mentality when designing a Social Media campaign for her clients in this unique beach community.

Carolina Beach Babe’s mission is to provide the business owners on the Island a local resource that understands the needs of our beautiful classic beach town that is as friendly and laid back as it is beautiful and relaxing.

Our visitors come for the day, weekend and their family vacations. With the help of Social Media Marketing, Debi helps her customers “get found” on the Internet and increase their off season business as well. A successful Social Media Presence will develop loyal fans, improve sales and grow business partnerships.

When a visitor arrives at the Beach via the bridge, new and returning visitors who will use their Smart Phone’s and tablets to locate the resources that will satisfy their vacation needs. Our visitors want to deep sea fish, rent a kayak or just find a great seafood restaurant- and they are going to use their phones and tablets to find the resources that they need, using applications like TripAdvisor to locate local businesses.

If you have not Googled your own business lately, you should. Monitoring your business presence on the web is critical to the competitive information delivered about your company, positive and negative.

Our beach visitors will refer to the advice of other consumers that have already experienced local businesses and read their reviews before deciding where to stay and where to eat and where to shop.

A 2012 study revealed that 83 percent of marketers believe that social media is important for their business, and more than nine in ten (92 percent) spend six or more hours online each week maintaining their presence on these channels.

Depend on Carolina Beach Babe for advice, training or a full design and management of your social media effort. Ask for a free gap analysis today.

Follow my Blog http://carolinabeachbabe.wordpress.com

Cruise Into 2013!

Santa Visits the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher

The N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher whips up a little holiday magic with a North Pole native. While the elves prepare for upcoming festivities, Santa plans to sneak in a little last minute fun with his marine friends at the Aquarium.

Catch Santa in his scuba gear diving with rays, eels and sharks during the Aquarium's scheduled dive shows at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22 and Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012 and at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 24, 2012. Dive shows are free with Aquarium admission.

The Aquarium will be closed on Christmas Day, Tuesday, Dec. 25 and reopens at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 26.

NC Aquarium at Ft. Fisher

900 Loggerhead Road

Kure Beach, NC

910.458.8257

Spotlight on Business - Clever Creations

Clever Creations is a decorating service offering hourly consultations to whole house renovations. Services include color selections, accessorizing, staging, upholstery, specialty paint finishes, organizing.

Nancy Reis, owner of Clever Creations is a resident here at Carolina Beach. When I decided to start my decorating business part time in Charlotte in 1995, I decided to do it my way. I was unimpressed at the intimidating personalities of many decorators and the need to feel that you have to spend a lot of money to get the satisfying look a client desires for their home. Many of my clients have never used a decorator before because they felt it was too costly and intimidating to them. Once we have our initial phone conversation, they realize that many times a few hours of consultation can get them started in the right direction.

I focus on the overall look that a client wants to achieve by first observing what they currently have in their home, change things around a bit, then add items to enhance what they already have it their home. I also offer organizing service including assisting clients with decluttering areas of their home or office. I was so astonished when a husband of a client called me and thanked me for saving him $400,000! He called to say that after I rearranged his furniture, accessories, and organized his living and dining room, his wife no longer wanted to move to a new house. She spends all her time in the living room and loves it. All it cost him was a few hours of consultation and work….now that’s a bargain!

Find Unique Holiday Gifts on Pleasure Island

Not quite finished your holiday shopping yet? No problem! Find gifts for everyone on your list at the unique shops and boutiques on Pleasure Island.

Seafood Blues & Jazz T Shirts

Treat the music fan in your life to a great looking tshirt commemorating this beloved island event. Due to popular demand, we had a second order for this year's Pleasure Island Seafood Blues & Jazz T-shirts. There are a limited supply of sizes and colors-First come-First Served.

All short sleeves except 2XL        $15
All 2XL short sleeves                   $18
All Black Long Sleeves                $25
A few posters are also still available at $15

Art From Southern Digital Art

Deck their walls! Southern Digital Art is open on weekends for holiday shopping.

7A Carolina Beach Avenue North

(West of  New Orleans Snow Cones on the

Carolina Beach Boardwalk)

Carolina Beach, NC

910.386.3541

Jeanne's Jewels Etc.

Special offers:

Take an extra 25% OFF any one piece of jewelry
Take an extra 30% OFF any one piece of apparel
Take an extra 15% OFF any one piece of sterling jewelry
Take an extra 10% OFF any one piece of fine jewelry
Take an extra 20% OFF any special order of $100 or more
Take an extra 10% OFF ant piece from the Lottie Dotties Collection
Buy 3 or more Lottie Dotties with any ring, necklace or bracelet and receive a FREE Collector's Case
40% OFF any toy from the Melissa & Doug Collection
First 10 customers that mention this email will receive a FREE Gift
THE BEST PRICES
THE BEST SELECTION
BEST GIFT WRAP
Desire to locate whatever you're looking for...We'll save you money every time !!!!




1009 N. Lake Park Blvd., Suite A-4
910.707.0316

Adopt-An-Animal for the Holidays

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Searching for a special gift for a child, or perhaps an animal lover, on your holiday list? The North Carolina Aquariums' new Adopt-An-Animal program helps you give a thoughtful present sure to make them smile.

The recently launched Adopt-An-Animal program offers a year-long adoption of popular Aquarium animals - alligators, otters, sea horses, sea turtles and sharks. Your tax-deductible contribution helps the Aquariums feed, care for and exhibit these animals.

When you choose to Adopt-An-Animal, you receive an adoption kit featuring an official certificate of adoption, an animal fact card with photos, and specialized window decals. Your name will also be listed on the Aquariums' website along with other adoption supporters. The most popular kits, available for $45, also come with a cuddly plush animal outfitted with its own hooded sweatshirt.

Additionally, those making an adoption can rest assured their contribution will be used effectively. The North Carolina Aquarium Society was recently ranked among the top zoo and aquarium non-profits in the nation and awarded a four-star rating for sound fiscal management by the online, nonprofit watch group Charity Navigator. The North Carolina Aquarium Society is the support organization for the state's three aquariums.

Order an adoption kit online at www.ncaquariums.com, or at your local N.C. Aquarium, including the N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher. If you place your order online, an adoption kit is mailed within a few days to the recipient address. If you need an order to arrive by a specific date, or have questions about an order, please call 800-832-FISH (3474).

Artful Living Group

Shop for unique gifts from this local art gallery and gift shop online at ArtfulLivingGroupShopping.com or in the shop at 112 Cape Fear Blvd in Carolina Beach.



Artful Living Group, LLC is located on Carolina Beach, NC and includes a retail shop, 4 working artist studios, art classes, and rotating art exhibits in the upstairs gallery. For more information about artist consignment, studio leases or creative classes call 910.458.7822 or email info@ArtfulLivingGroup.com

Find even more great places to shop on Pleasure Island here: http://pleasureislandnc.org/where-to-play-listing.php  

Final Weekend for Christmas By The Sea

Don't miss your last chance to see Santa at the Boardwalk before he heads to the North Pole to finalize his  Christmas preparations!

Spotlight on Business - Holmes Security Systems

Holmes Security Systems is part of a 104 year old, family owned company, founded in Fayetteville, NC in 1908. We have offices in both Fayetteville and Wilmington, NC. Here’s how we run our business:

We are a security company, not just an alarm company. We don’t run $99 specials or offer “one size fits all” systems. Instead, we work with our customers to determine how best to protect their home, families, and businesses, realizing that an alarm system is only part of the solution.

We are a life safety company – we look at all aspects of keeping your home, family and business safe. We don’t shy away from recommending monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and personal panic and medical alert devices.

We don’t have long term contracts – we won’t ask you to sign a three or five year agreement. Our philosophy is that we want you to do business with us because you want to do business with us.
We are an Authorized Preferred Honeywell Dealer, with the additional First Alert Professional title in Wilmington. Honeywell is the world-wide leader in security solutions.

And finally, an effective security system must be monitored. We own and operate our own state-of-the-art, UL Listed Central Monitoring Station right here in southeastern NC. It’s staffed by trained personnel 24-7, and has achieved the 5 Diamond Certification from the Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA). In fact, it is the only such center in Eastern NC. Local monitoring means faster response.

We are A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau, and we offer all of the benefits of a national company, but the money stays in our community. Local ownership, local service, local monitoring, and no long term contracts, plus a definite price advantage.

Call us at 793-4181 or find us on the web at www.HolmesSecurity.net.

Island of Lights 2012 Schedule

Celebrate the holidays island style on the "Island of Lights!"

Each year Pleasure Island, NC is lit up with thousands of twinkling lights making it a favorite winter-time destination. Beginning with the Lighting of the Lake on Friday, November 23rd, 2012 and wrapping up with a spectacular New Year's Celebration on Monday, December 31st there is more than a month of merriment and fun to enjoy!

Full 2012 Island of Lights Schedule:

Lighting at the Lake

Friday, November 23rd, 2012

Ceremony begins at 7:00 pm

Location: Carolina Beach Lake

Christmas Parade

Friday, December 1, 2012

Parade begins at 7:30 pm

Starting on Atlanta Ave, traveling down Lake Park Blvd, ending at Federal Point Plaza.

Christmas Flotilla

Saturday, December 2, 2012

Flotilla begins at 6:00 pm

Starting at Snow's Cut, traveling to the Carolina Beach Boat Basin and back.

Tour of Homes

Saturday, December 8, 2012

4:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Self guided tour of beautiful Pleasure Island homes.

New Years Celebration

Monday, December 31, 2012

Starting at 9:00 pm, Dropping of the giant beachball & fireworks display at midnight to ring in 2013!

Location: Near the Kure Beach Pier

Learn more at: http://www.islandoflights.org/

Spotlight on Business - Island Wellness Market

Island Wellness Market opened in June 2012 and became the first and only dedicated health food store on Pleasure Island. Owners Amy and Chris Sawyer have lived in Carolina Beach for over 10 years and are excited to be serving their local community.

Island Wellness Market’s mission is to help redefine wellness by educating customers on how to live a more healthy, balanced life. They offer an organic smoothie and juice bar, high quality vitamins, herbs, and nutritional supplements, organic and cruelty free skincare and beauty items, healthy foods, including organic, Non-GMO, gluten free, vegetarian and vegan selections, green and eco-friendly household items, and a small selection of local artwork and merchandise to help support other local entrepreneurs.

They are also a pick up location for Down East Connect, a service that connects the Wilmington area with local farms within a 60-mile radius via online ordering and delivery to various locations, which now includes Carolina Beach.

Island Wellness Market offers educational classes and workshops on a regular basis, and will be collaborating with other local businesses in the New Year to bring additional workshops to inspire healthy living and fulfillment.

Island Wellness Market is committed to locals and families and to giving back to the community. Their goals are to provide exceptional customer care and recommendations for optimum health, to support local and organic farms that keep our earth and water pure, to teach the benefits of proper nutrition and total wellness of body mind, and spirit, and to support and strengthen the health and wellness of our island.

1140-G N. Lake Park Boulevard

Carolina Beach, NC 28248

910-458-5252

http://islandwellnessmarket.blogspot.com/

Attention Pleasure Island Stores & Boutiques!

Join the 3rd Annual Pleasure Island Shopping Spree!

Saturday & Sunday - November 24 - 25th, 2012. There are 15 Business Host spots available.

$89 entry fee for advertising and roundup party. Donate a gift basket with a minimum retail value of $50. Over 130 customers participated last year.

Contact Jeanne at Jeanne's Jewels & Fashions to reserve your spot. 910-707-0316

Spotlight on Business: Cambridge Village of Wilmington

Spotlight on Business: Carolina Marine Construction

Carolina Marine Construction, Inc. has been providing high quality residential and commercial marine services in the New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick County areas for over 20 years. We are a Total Marine Contractor, meaning our knowledgeable professionals can handle every phase of your marine project, including design, implementation, permitting, construction and dredging (if needed). We work with individual homeowners, home owner associations, yacht clubs, marinas and municipalities in all phases of marine construction. Our quality assurance is your peace of mind that your project will be completed the right way, built to CAMA specifications, using only quality materials.

Locally owned and operated by Michael Conard, (also a Seahawk alumni) we strive to incorporate your ideas into a final, functional design, while maximizing your useable space. Estimates are always free. Some of our more notable projects include aiding in the relocation of Mason's Inlet, the outdoor classroom at Westgate Nature Park for the Town of Leland and the downtown Riverwalk from PPD to the Isabella Holmes bridge for the City of Wilmington.

Our crew has over 80 years combined experience in the construction industry. Every member of our crew has been fully trained and operates as a team. Carolina Marine Construction, Inc is a licensed and insured Total Marine Contractor. For more information go to www.carolinamarineconstructioninc.com. or call 793-4143.

Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival a Huge Success

Thanks to Mr. Gregg Allman and all the other great talents that shared the stage at the 19th Annual Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival, as well as the sponsors, volunteers, and fans who made this the largest and best festival yet!

Gregg Allman playing live on Pleasure Island!

The Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce is already hard at work planning next year's festival. Who would you like to see play at this great event in its 20th year?

Early Voting Open October 18th - November 3rd, 2012 on Pleasure Island

Pleasure Island is home to an early voting location this year: 

The Carolina Beach Police Training Room

1121 N Lake Park Blvd

Carolina Beach, NC 28428

All New Hanover County early voting locations will be open Monday - Saturday from 9 am - 5 pm, except for the last day of early voting on Saturday, November 3rd when the hours will be 9 am - 1 pm.

Don't forget to vote!

Spotlight on Business: Island Electric NC, LLC

Wilmington's Most Reliable

Residential Electrical Contracting Company

Island Electric NC, LLC, is family owned and operated. We pride ourselves in being dependable and affordable.

We specialize in residential service, including:

• Renovations
• Landscape Design
• Whole House Lighting Design
• Attic Fans
• Ceiling Fans
• Recessed Lighting
• Troubleshooting
• Home Inspections

Island Electric NC, LLC, is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction - we will do everything we can to meet and exceed your expectations. Special rates for our friends in the Pleas-ure Island Chamber of Commerce!

Check our Blog for Monthly Specials! www.islandelectricnc.com

FREEMAN PARK TO BE CLOSED DUE TO HIGH SURF - 2:00 PM, Saturday, October 27th

CAROLINA BEACH, NC – Due to high surf anticipated by Hurricane Sandy, the Town of Carolina Beach will close Freeman Park to visitors and campers on Saturday, October 27 at 2pm. The park will reopen on Monday, October 29th by 9am or sooner if weather permits.

Freeman Park is very susceptible to high tides.  During extreme tides, such as anticipated, the ocean reaches the dunes leaving little if any area for safe passage or camping.

Halloween Carnival at Mike Chappell Park

Don't miss this Pleasure Island Halloween tradition for children 12 and under (must be accompanied by a parent.) The ghoulish good time kicks off at 3:00 pm Saturday, October 27th in Mike Chappell Park in Carolina Beach, NC.

Got-Em-On 15th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament

Hit the golf course for a great cause! The 15th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament run by The Got-Em-On Live Bait Club will be held Saturday, October 27th, 2012 at Echo Farms.

More Info: http://www.got-em-on.com/

Pumpkin Carving Contest & Walk at Island Montessori School

The newest addition to the Pleasure Island fall festivities is the Pumpkin Carving Contest & Walk put on by Island Montessori School. Enter your own carved work of art ($5 entry fee) or simply stop by to see them in all their glowing glory. All proceeds benefit Island Montessori, a nonprofit preschool serving children ages 1 - 6.

Fort Fisher Fall Festival - Saturday, October 27th

Head to the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area for some spooky fall fun Saturday, October 27th, 2012 from 10 am - 5 pm. In the evening take a stroll down the Haunted Trail...if you dare!

Carolina Beach Fire Department Annual BBQ - Saturday 10/27

Support your local fire fighters by eating some delicious BBQ this weekend!

Trick or Treat Under The Sea - October 24th & 25th, 2012

Bring the kids to the aquarium for early Halloween trick-or-treating! Candy stations, special programs and decorations provide a fun and safe Halloween building for this event.

This popular event is held on two dates from 5:00-8:30pm - either Wednesday, October 24 or Thursday, October 25. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Admission is $8.00 for children and adults. NC Aquarium
Members receive a 10% discount. Kids 2 and under are admitted free.

ATTENTION PARENTS: Only umbrella strollers will be permitted in the building for this event. No refunds or exchanges.

More info: https://reservations.ncaquariums.com/fortfisher/Info.aspx?EventID=22

North Carolina Big Sweep 9/29 - Join The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher Team

Show the ocean some love, meet new friends and rid local beaches of trash and marine debris during the 2012 North Carolina Big Sweep. The N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher will again organize a volunteer group for the event on Saturday, September 29, to make a big difference.

Plastics, trash and other marine debris threaten aquatic environments and wildlife. The annual Big Sweep event helps clean-up a growing problem and keeps our beaches beautiful and safe. Last year 537 volunteers cleaned up approximately 1,235 pounds of trash in New Hanover County.

Those interested need only commit several hours of time. Volunteers who register with the Aquarium will meet at 9 a.m. and will travel to a nearby beach to col-lect trash. Bags will be provided.

If you would like to participate with the Aquarium’s Big Sweep team, please email NCAFFregistrar@ncaquariums.com, or call (910) 458-7468. Remember to bring your own water in a reusable bottle, on the day of the event.

If you prefer to sign-up for another site or register your own group, visit http://keepnhcbeautiful.org/

Lineup for the 19th Annual Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival

That slight chill in the air means it's almost time for the eagerly anticipated Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival! There's been a ton of excitement since the announcement of the headliner - the legendary Gregg Allman, and both stages will play host to some serious talent from the first note on Saturday until the last on Sunday.

Check out this awesome lineup:

Saturday, October 13, 2012
BLUES STAGE

TIME	BAND
12:30- 1:50	Polar Bear Blues Band featuring Harvey Dalton Arnold
2:10 - 3:30	Medusa Stone Does The Blues
3:50 - 5:10	Damon Fowler
5:45 - 7:15	Jaimoe Jasssz Band
8:00 - 10:00	GREGG ALLMAN

JAZZ STAGE

TIME	BAND
1:30 - 2:45	The Lisa Rankin Revue
3:00 - 4:15	The FROG Project
4:30 - 5:45	El Jaye Johnson & The Port City All Stars

Sunday, October 14, 2012
BLUES STAGE

TIME	BAND
12:30 - 1:50	Ladies Auxiliary
2:10 - 3:30	The Bobby Paltauf Experience
3:50 - 5:10	King Tyrone and The Graveyard Ramblers

JAZZ STAGE

TIME	BAND
1:30 - 2:45	Will McBride Group
3:00 - 4:15	Nita B & The Swingin' Soiree
4:30 - 5:45	Charlie and Rose Lucas

Local Artist Barton Hatcher Creates Poster for 19th Annual Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival

This year’s Artist for the 19th Annual Pleasure Island Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival is local artist Barton Hatcher from Wilmington, North Carolina with his tropically-inspired musician playing the blues as sunset descends over the Cape Fear River masterpiece. You can almost feel the breeze and smell the sa

lt water.

Growing up on his grandfather’s farm in Bladen County, North Carolina, Barton Hatcher discovered his special artistic and creative gifts early in his life. A self-taught artist and mixed media sculptor, Barton’s eclectic style is admired by many. His work has been showcased in several North Carolina galleries alongside prominent artists such as Ivey Hayes. On several occasions he has been commissioned to do customized art designs for clients to fit their individual taste and desires. 

His work is in the private art collections of North Carolina residents Linda MacRae, Rick and Marilyn Davis, and Mike and Kathy Allen, as well as New Jersey residents Charlie and Liz McCluskey, to name only a few.
Barton owns and operates Gardens by Barton, a landscape design business in Wilmington, NC, where he uses his artistic talents to create customized garden designs, including building hardscapes such as arbors, trellises and garden sheds. 

Before starting his own business, Barton was employed for 25 years by Cape Craftsmen of Elizabethtown, NC, where he was an art buyer and designed and built prototypes for furniture.
An avid gardener and fly fisherman, Barton draws inspiration for his artistic designs from nature itself.
Barton lives’ in Wilmington NC. 

Island Day 2012

With another successful summer season behind us it's time to celebrate Pleasure Island with friends and neighbors. There's fun for everyone with great live music, food, kids activities, and much more!

Sunday, September 30th from 1:00 - 5:00 pm
at the Carolina Beach Lake

2012 Island of Lights Christmas Card and Ornament Signing

Meet the artists who are bringing the 2012 Christmas Card and Ornament for the Island of Lights to life. Barbara Boyer designed the card, and Mary Jo Madden has been hand painting the ornaments for the event since 2001.

This event takes place at Michael's Seafood in Carolina Beach from 6 - 8 pm.

Town of Kure Beach Offering Commemorative Opportunities on the New Boardwalk

The Town of Kure Beach is offering commemorative opportunities on the newly replaced boardwalk in front of the Ocean Front Park site on Atlantic Avenue.

Commemorations are in the shape of a Bluefish made of corian material that is embedded in the boardwalk plank. The shape of the Bluefish allows for either two or three lines of print and sells for $220 each.

What a great way to remember someone special, celebrate an event, advertise a business or give the grandkids a memory of a time spent with you. The Town is also offering commemorative opportunities on swings and benches that will be on the boardwalk and in the new Ocean Front Park. Just think, a swing with your name on it, ocean front! Swings are $2,000 and benches are $1,800.

Here's your chance to be a part of Kure Beach history and leave a legacy in your favorite place for yourself or a loved one that believes Kure Beach is a special place to be.

Come make a memory on the Kure Beach boardwalk.

Come by or call Town Hall at 458-8216 to order your fish, swing or bench or go to the Town s website for more information at www.townofkurebeach.org, recreation & tourism, parks & facilities, ocean front park.

Proceeds will go towards park activities and debt retirement.

Beach Bound Project

Carolina Beach Boardwalk Named One of the Top Ten in the US

Pleasure Island was recently in the news once again, this time in a list of the America's Best Boardwalks compiled by Food and Wine Magazine. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk was honored among other seaside hot spots from across the US, with the carnival rides, food stands, and of course Britt's Donuts among the reasons given for its inclusion.

Photo: Great Southern Publishers

August 2012 Live Music & Movies at the Lake

Here's the lineup for the Free Movies at the Lake, Free Summer Concert Series, and Boardwalk Blast Music Series (followed each Thursday by Fireworks!) Further proof there's always something exciting happening on Pleasure Island!

New Video Promoting Pleasure Island, NC

Take a look at the newly released video promoting Pleasure Island on the PleasureIsland.org homepage. It gives a great taste of the NC beach towns that make up the island and what a vacation here could be like! Just click on the image below to visit the website and then click on the sunset image to start the video.

New Date: South of K Playing in the Free Summer Concert Series August 17th

South of K

Friday, August 17, 2012

Music from 6:30 - 8:30

Summertime at the beach is all about sun, sand, waves, seafood and MUSIC! So we're bringing you our FREE Summer Concert Series held at the Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area in Kure Beach. Bring blankets and chairs for the whole family and prepare to boogie the night away.

Food IS allowed so pack your picnic and enjoy dinner to the grooves of live music - for free! However we do ask that you please do NOT bring pets or beverages. Beverages will be for sale.

Concert is from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm at the Ft. Fisher Air Force Recreation Area at 119 Riverfront Road in Kure Beach,NC.

For the full Summer Concert Series Schedule, visit Free Summer Concert Series in Kure Beach.

Spotlight On Business—Fuzzy Peach

The Fuzzy Peach Frozen Yogurt Bar opened its doors to the Wilmington community in 2010 at its flagship location in Racine Commons, which happens to be under a mile from UNCW’s campus where the three owners first met. Rocco Quaranto, Wells Struble, and Jason Nista met as freshman on the track team and graduated from UNCW with business degrees. A short two years later, they opened the first Fuzzy Peach on a shoe string budget, bringing to Wilmington a new sensation in frozen desserts.

The Fuzzy Peach offers a range of zero fat and low fat yogurt flavors, as well as sugarless and lactose-free options, from the traditional to novelties, such as Apple Pie and Egg Nog. Their fresh topping bar includes everything from fresh fruit and candy to Captain Crunch cereal. Their variety of options allows the customer to have the creative freedom to make their own versatile and delicious masterpiece. In a span of just two short years, they have added four locations, including Portner’s Neck, Monkey Junction, Downtown Wilmington, and their newest location at Carolina Beach. Rocco, Jason, and Wells co-own the Carolina Beach location with one of their Regional Managers and Director of Franchise Training, Tom Maskell. They are all 4 excited to be on the Island with such a great local welcoming!

The building they are located in has had some major renovations by the owner, which include a massive deck for Fuzzy Peach customers to enjoy. Some recent achievements include the implementation of both their catering and franchising ventures. They have begun catering in the greater Wilmington area, boasting that their services are perfect for events from school and business functions to birthday parties and weddings. They have also found success in franchising, with quite a few locations on the way, including Southport, Cape Carteret, Shallotte, Leland, Topsail Island, New Bern, and Morehead City.

They have recently begun providing a “bottoms bar,” which gives customers the option of picking a cup with either a homemade waffle bowl, or a brownie or cupcake made by Coastal Cupcakes, another Wilmington-based shop. Also, The Fuzzy Peach is now offering self-serve banana splits at all of their locations. The ultimate goal of The Fuzzy Peach is that it becomes synonymous with the word “dessert” to consumers nationwide. To accomplish this goal, they aim to work together with customers, employees, and franchisees to create an unparalleled dessert experience to the community. This group of young innovators guarantees satisfaction in every cup, day or night, rain or shine. Fill up and enjoy, because Life’s a Peach!

Spotlight On Business—Seaside Insurance

Seaside Insurance, which is part of The Huneycutt Group, is an independent insurance agency that has been protecting coastal properties and businesses for nearly 40 years. That experience, combined with our unparalleled customer service and partnership with nearly 100 of the best insurance carriers on the market, gives us a competitive edge in “protecting your coastal living”. Our coverages include:
· Auto (Personal & Commercial)
· Homes (Primary, Rental, & Vacation)
· Oceanfront & Beach Homes
· Duplexes & Townhomes
· Condo Units
· Renter’s Contents
· Wind & Hail (Hurricane)
· Flood
· Boats & Personal Watercraft
· Motorcycles, Golf Carts, & ATV’s
· Motorhomes & Campers
· Commercial & Personal Umbrellas
· Commercial Liability
· Commercial Property
· Worker’s Compensation
· Life
· Health & Long Term Care
· Medicare Supplement
· Annuities
· Identity Theft

With the insurance chains raising their rates, protecting your property, business, and family can be difficult to navigate in coastal areas. So don’t depend on a company that is in uncharted waters! Start saving today by contacting us:
Phone: 910.338.1773
Web: www.seasideins.com
Email: info@seasideins.com
Office: 1206 N Lake Park Blvd (2 doors down from Michael’s Seafood)

Pleasure Island In The News

Our little island has been big news lately, first with a write-up in the Atlanta Journal Constitution on the weekly fireworks display found here throughout the summer:

And then Carolina Beach and Britt's Donuts were mentioned in a national broadcast of Weekend Edition Sunday from National Public Radio. The story centers around the commentator not quite getting the hype behind donuts as a harbinger of and must-eat treat of summer. A piping hot Britt's donut just dripping with glaze after taking a dip in the ocean or to kick off a weekend morning? What's not to get? Sounds like the author needs a trip to Pleasure Island to truly understand what it's all about!

Read or listen to the full story here: http://www.npr.org/2012/07/08/156313507/since-when-does-summer-taste-like-doughnuts

Free Outdoor Movies on Pleasure Island - July 2012 Lineup

Here are the films available for your viewing pleasure during July 2012 on Pleasure Island. A favorite island tradition, the Free Outdoor Movies at the Carolina Beach Lake are a treat for the whole family!

July 8th, 2012

July 15th, 2012

July 22nd, 2012

July 29th, 2012

July 2012 Live Music on Pleasure Island

The summer season is in full swing and there are a lot of great bands ready to help you beat the heat with some cool tunes! Here are some of the free concerts coming up this month:

Free Summer Concert Series at Fort Fisher:

BLP
Classic Rock & Dance
July 13th, 2012

Beachbilly Brothers
Beach, Classic R&B
July 27th, 2012

Fireworks by the Sea and Boardwalk Blast Music:

Mark Roberts Band
Variety
July 12th, 2012

L Shape Lot
Folk/Rock/Roots/Bluegrass
July 19th, 2012

Daniel Parish Band
Pop/Country/Americana
July 26th, 2012

Gregg Allman To Headline the 19th Annual Pleasure Island Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival

The air is crisp, the nights are cool and the sky is blue – Welcome to Pleasure Island in the fall. And there is no better way to bring in Autumn than to attend the 19th Annual Pleasure Island Seafood Blues & Jazz Festival on October 13th & 14th. This years’ Festival brings 1995 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Blues Icon, the legendary GREGG ALLMAN to Pleasure Island. In addition, there will be fourteen other blues and jazz groups on two stages over the two day festival brought to you by Bryant Real Estate and the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce at the Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area.

GREGG ALLMAN will arrive on Pleasure Island in support of his seventh solo album, his first in 13 years, Low Country Blues. As a founding member of the one and only Allman Brothers Band and in his own storied solo career, Allman has long been a gifted natural interpreter of the blues, his soulful and distinctive voice one of the defining sounds in the history of American music. Produced by T Bone Burnett, Low Country Blues finds Allman putting his own stamp on songs by some of the blues giants whose work has long informed his own, from Muddy Waters and BB King to Buddy Guy and Magic Sam. Named for the coastal Georgia region Allman calls home, Low Country Blues stands as a high water mark in an already remarkable body of work, rich with passion, verve, and the unerring confidence of a true survivor.

Tickets are just $40.00 in advance for a two-day pass or can be purchased at the door for $50.00 for Saturday (Gregg Allman plays Saturday night) and $15.00 for Sunday. Kids 12 and under are free. We ask that you do not bring coolers or pets, but bring your chairs, towels and blankets for a Pleasure Island style weekend. See you there!

Ticket on sale now! Buy them today on Eventbrite.

Keep up to date with the latest on one of the area's most beloved blues festivals:

Official Web Page: http://www.pleasureislandnc.org/seafood-blues-and-jazz-festival/

Official Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/SeafoodBluesandJazzFestival

Access Pleasure Island Info From Your Mobile Phone or Device

You can now use your smartphone or tablet to access the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce's new and  improved website. Enter www.pleasureislandnc.org or search for "Pleasure Island NC."

Bookmark the site for easy access. Check out the latest events, find a place for dinner, or plan your vacation from anywhere with mobile access to one of the best North Carolina beaches!

What To Do With Kids on Pleasure Island

Pleasure Island and the towns of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Fort Fisher have plenty to offer kids of all ages. It's an ideal destination for a family vacation, weekend getaway, as well as a great place to live year round!

Of course the beach itself provides hour after hour of entertainment, but here are a few more ideas of what to do with kids on Pleasure Island:

Parks
Hike the trails in Carolina Beach State Park. Play tennis, basketball, or skateboard at Mike Chappell Park in Carolina Beach. Test your volleyball or disc golf skills at Joe Eakes Park in Kure Beach. Both Mike Chappell Park and Joe Eakes Park have playgrounds where the little ones can swing, slide, and play.

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Learn about the creatures that live in and near the varied aquatic habitats on and near Pleasure Island at the aquarium. Kids from 2 - 12 will love the newly opened Adventure Reef outdoor play area.

Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Step back in time with a trip to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Pose for a family photo at the Carolina Beach Crescent Moon, and surprise the kids with a sweet treat such as ice cream, water ice, fudge, or donuts. During the summer season check out the amusement park rides, Family Night on Tuesdays, and live music each Thursday evening.

Fireworks
During the summer season you can enjoy a fireworks display every week! The pyrotechnics are launched from the beach in front of the Carolina Beach Boardwalk at 9:00 pm.

Free Outdoor Movies
Catch family friendly flicks on the big screen at the Carolina Beach Lake each Sunday evening. Show time is at dusk - around 8:45. 2012 Lineup.

Need some grown up time? Take the kiddos to Island Time Drop-N-Play, where they can play while you enjoy a dinner out, a little adult conversation, or maybe a nap!

Farmers Market at the Carolina Beach Lake

Now in it's third season the Carolina Beach Farmer's Market is the place to find a wide selection of local produce, food, wine, sweet treats, and arts and crafts. Strolling through the market is a great way to spend a Saturday morning, and you're sure to enjoy the dishes you'll whip up with your fresh finds.

This time of year you're likely to find sweet potatoes, herbs, corn on the cob, blueberries, blackberries, and those wonderful summer tomatoes we dream about all winter...as well as much much more!

The Carolina Beach Farmers Market is held each Saturday at the Carolina Beach Lake from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm.