Southport Magazine

The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce has revealed its newest program: the Gift Local Card! Courtesy photo

Have you ever wondered what to get your friend or co-worker for the holidays? It certainly should be something that is off-the-beaten-path but also something they’ll love. Rather than asking them what they would like or winging it with a desktop knick-knack, now locals can surprise their friends and families with the Gift Local Card—a new program from the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce that allows folks to shop at participating local businesses in our area. Instead of a generic gift card, this version still allows plenty of options but feels so much more personal, especially considering all of the personal attention our neighborhood business owners offer their customers.

“The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce is always looking to find ways to keep revenues local,” Karen Sphar, executive vice president of the chamber, says. “Penny Watkins, owner of Boo & Roos, came from Virginia where they had a Chamber Certificheck program, a paper-based certificate that was purchased at their chamber and used at local merchants. She requested the chamber look into implementing a similar program in the Southport-Oak Island area. After researching different types of programs, we found a chamber program in North Hampton, MA, which enabled us to sell a reloadable gift card that would be good at numerous locations. We contacted the Greater North Hampton Chamber of Commerce, who had very good success with 60 businesses accepting and over $200,000 in sales annually. At the chamber’s annual meeting in June 2014, Kirk Singer, the 2014/2015 president, announced the chamber’s focus for the year was to get this program up and running.”

Folks can purchase the card online or at the chamber office, located at 4433 Long Beach Rd SE. “The kick-off week is October 26th through November 2nd,” Sphar explains. “Anyone who purchases a card during the kick-off will be entered into a drawing for a $100 Gift Local Card. On November 3rd we will hold a kick-off ceremony and draw the winner of the $100 Gift Local Card.”

As of publication, there were 26 participating businesses in the Southport-Oak Island Area, including restaurants, shops, services, and amusement. “This gift card is unique because it allows the giver an opportunity to support local businesses while giving the recipient many options to choose from,” Sphar continues. “The beauty of the card is that now the gift giver is giving the gift recipient options, instead of selecting one business and hoping the gift card is to a business that the recipient will find appealing. Now the recipient can choose from over 25 different businesses. The cards may be loaded with any dollar amount and used at more than one location, so the recipient may choose to use it numerous times at different businesses until the card is out of funds.”

Not just established for the holidays, the Gift Local program is designed for year-round use from the general public and area businesses. “Businesses can use the cards for employee incentive gifts, sales rewards and customer appreciation gifts,” Sphar notes. “Businesses who historically give employees a turkey, ham or gift card as a holiday bonus can now support neighboring businesses by purchasing the Gift Local cards. Businesses can also special order blank Gift Local cards with their logos on them and the Chamber can load them when they are ready to use them.”

The Gift Local cards are a great innovation for our area businesses. Here’s a list of participants to consider using your card at:

AMUSE LOCAL:
Brunswick Air Flight School & Fun Flight Air Tours –
They are a Part 61 Flight School located in Oak Island, North Carolina at KSUT, Cape Fear Regional Jetport – one of the busiest general airports in NC. Located on the Oak Island “mainland” side just north of the Oak Island Bridge off Airport Road. Oak Island sits right at the confluence of the ICW, Cape Fear River & the Atlantic Ocean. Our views are breathtaking – you cannot beat this scenery while learning how to fly. They also offer fun flights and secenic air tours. (910) 363-4334

Oak Island Pier – 705 Ocean Drive, Oak Island
Located on the barrier island of Oak Island in Southeast North Carolina. The Pier is noted for its excellent saltwater fishing. In the year 2007 over 250 King Mackerel were landed, it’s also an excellent Trout and Flounder Pier. Fishing starts around the first of April with large Bluefish followed by Spanish, Trout and Flounder. King Mackerel start to show up when the water gets to 64 degrees. Other species caught are Cobia, Whiting (Virginia Mullet), Pompano, Spots, Sharks, Tarpon, Amberjack, Jack Crevalle, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Red Drum, Croaker, Grey Trout, Ladyfish, Spadefish, and Pinfish. The North Carolina State Record for Tiger Shark came off this Pier in 1966 by Walter Maxwell, it weighed 1150 lbs. (910) 278-6464

SHOP LOCAL:
Art @ 211 The Ricky Evans Galley – 211 N. Howe Street, Southport
Ricky Evans launched his North Carolina Lighthouse Collection in 1989. Since then he has steadily built his body of work to include other landmarks and scenes of the Southeastern U.S. Coast. Through Ricky’s art and photography, as well as that of the many other regional artists we represent, The Ricky Evans Gallery has come to epitomize the thriving Coastal Carolina culture. (910) 457-1129

Boo & Roo’s -303 N. Howe Street, Southport
A lovely ladies apparel and gift store located in the water tower district in beautiful Southport, NC. When you enter through the door you will be welcomed with a smile and Southern hospitality. Local owner Penny Watkins has been greeting her customers since 2007. Over the years, Penny has expanded her business to include such lines as Spartina 449, JPK handbags, and a large baby department. She makes a concerted effort to offer you many American products such as apparel, jewelry, candles, glasses, home decor and more. Whether you are looking for a sundress, picture frames, a new piece of handmade jewelry, or that perfect baby gift, try Boo & Roo’s. (910) 363-4275

Books ‘n Stuff- 4961-11 Long Beach Road, Southport
The longest continuous running book store in Brunswick County – started in 1987. Over 50,000 books. Selling used books for ½ price, new books discounted, local interest books, sale books, collectable books. They will give 20% of original cover price as a credit towards purchase of used books. Typing, editing and notary public services. Located in the Live Oak Shopping Center. (910) 457-9017

Brunswick Town Florist – 4961-7 Long Beach Road, Southport
Natural and organic designs are customized to meet your needs no matter what the occasion or event. In most cases they can guarantee same day delivery. Wedding consultations are free and by appointment. Call to place an order or set up an appointment. (910) 457-1144

Cattail Cottage – 122 N. Howe Street, Southport
A unique and personal shopping experience in the heart of Southport . Wander from room to room and discover a variety of American-made furniture & gifts, specialized lighting, home & garden accessories, seasonal decor, exceptional jewelry, greeting cards, gifts for all occasions, and much more! (910) 454-4533

Color me Carolina – 300 Country Club Drive, Oak Island
An eclectic assortment of gifts for self and for all occasions. Reward yourself with shoes, sandals, purses or jewelry. Perfect gifts available for all-age birthdays, weddings, hostess, business and special events. Gift suggestions include Write Plate, candles, Tervis tumblers, collegiate and beach-themed serving pieces, kitchen linens and much, much more. Gift wrapping, embroidery and silk screen items available. (910) 933-4531

Hippie Chick Granola Co.- 6402 E. Oak Island Drive Unit C, Oak Island
A small batch granola bakery whose granola varieties include both traditional and offbeat blends which marry wholesome ingredients with a bit of decadence. Our product is available for sale at both our retail and online stores. (910) 250-1165

Island Spas- 5904 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island
Locally owned and operated hot tub sales and service company. An authorized retailer of Freeflow and PDC Spas, let Island Spas show you how to increase your rental potential for your property. They carry over 30 different models to fit anyone’s budget. From renter-proof models to the most luxurious tubs, they can help you find a tub that fits your needs. Island Spas also has trained CPO’s on staff to help keep your tub in pristine condition. (910) 201-2131

Rebecca’s Fabrications – 416 N. Howe Street, Southport
Rebecca’s offers like-new consignment furniture, accessories and collectibles. Rebecca’s also provides reupholstery, specializing in antiques, hand tufting, 8-way spring up, and down cushions. We also offer frame rebuilding, with care to preserve the natural integrity of the piece. Additionally, we make slip covers, pillows and cornices. (910) 457-6182

Seaside with Coffee – 8017 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island
Not a coffee shop but a unique boutique with flavors and styles of clothing and swimwear for ladies, teens and children. Voted Best Women’s Apparel Boutique in Brunswick County. As a professional artist and photographer, Phyllis Coffee brings her artist eye to the styles and colors in the fashion world. In addition to the clothing, Seaside with Coffee sells different and fun gifts. Let them be your personal shopper. (910) 278-4436

Winey Bears – 8903 E. Oak Island Drive, Suite 5, Oak Island
Sally Winey is a world-renowned teddy bear artist. She has designed bears for Annette Funicello, Cascade, and Sweet Memories. Sally has been seen on Home Shopper Network, QVC and Discovery Channel. She has written books, produced Patterns and How to Videos throughout the last 30 years. Her own line of artist bears called Winey Bears are unique, artistic creations hand-made with love in her North Carolina workshop one by one. (704) 746-4928

DINE LOCAL:
Bar-B-Que House, The – 5002 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island
Dine In, Carry-out, and Full-Service Catering The BBQ House was established in 2005, offering Oak Island residents and guests an innovative BBQ-dining experience. Founded on North Carolina’s love of barbeque, the BBQ House slow-smokes the finest quality pork with hickory logs, each day, at our on-site facility. Then, we offer our customers a mix of sauces – from Eastern NC vinegar sauce, to Lexington style red sauce, to our own tasty House sauce and now our new South Carolina mustard sauce … you’re sure to find one that’s to your liking. Combine your BBQ – be it pork, ribs or chicken – with the world’s best hushpuppies and corn nuggets – and you’ve surely got the “Best BBQ on the Beach! (910) 201-1001.

Bella Cucina Seafood, Pasta & Pizza – 5177 Southport-Supply Road, Southport
Bella Cucina is a family-owned Tuscan style restaurant featuring everything from fine Italian dining to hand-tossed pizza. In addition to our traditional pasta meat entrees we serve seafood entrees using fresh-caught fish from local purveyors. Many visitors to our area ask “where can we get GOOD seafood?” not realizing that right here in Southport the best seafood in Brunswick County is found at Bella Cucina. If you’re yearning for thin-crust pizza then Bella is the place to be. Hand-tossed dough covered with delicious cheese, special sauces, and fresh toppings are what make these NY-style pies a must. A hearty made-to-order Calzone or Stromboli is also the perfect choice for those who’d like to try something unique and you’d be missing out if you didn’t sample what the locals call “best chicken wings in town”. To complement our menu is an extensive Wine List with many reasonably priced Italian wines. May we suggest you can begin with one of our exciting special martinis and complete the meal with a cappuccino and Sambuca? For a great dining experience in a comfortable, relaxing environment, presented by a talented and friendly wait-staff…you can’t beat Bella Cucina. For a great experience in a comfortable, relaxing environment…you can’t beat Bella Cucina. (910) 454-4540

Flying Fish Café – 705 Ocean Drive, Oak Island @ Oak Island Pier
Oceanfront dining at its freshest and finest. Experience their food from Fish Tacos with fresh Mahi to Gorgonzola Cheeseburgers. Great place for a meeting or wedding reception. Full ABC Permit. Maximum Group Occupancy 75. (910) 278-5504

Tropical Smoothie Café – 1671-1A N. Howe Street, Southport
There’s no better way to make a great meal than with fresh, natural, premium quality, healthy ingredients. From the finest meats and cheeses in our food to fruit so fresh it could still be on the tree in our smoothies, we practice this philosophy every day. All of this means that eating at Tropical Smoothie Cafe is a treat that you don’t feel guilty about and can enjoy time and time again. (910) 363-4908

Taylor Cuisine, Café & Catering – 731 N. Howe Street, Southport
Taylor Cuisine Cafe & Catering, Inc. is a full service restaurant, catering & personal chef company “where we cater to your taste & Taylor to your budget.” They pride themselves in quality, service, creativity, and most importantly, fresh food. Taylor Cuisine Cafe & Catering, Inc. was evolved from the love of preparing all types of cuisines and years of working in the restaurant industry in New York. Open Breakfast & Lunch Tuesday thru Sunday. Open Dinner Thursday thru Saturday. (910) 454-0088

SERVE LOCAL:
Coastal Computers – 4130 Long Beach Road, Southport (2nd Floor)
Cathy Abbatiello and Coastal Computers have been providing Brunswick County’s most dependable and quality computer repair services for a decade. Our certified technicians (Microsoft, Apple, Novell and Cisco) provide service as promptly as possible. We are always ready to serve you. All work is guaranteed! If we don’t fix your problem, you don’t pay! And as always, all services are confidential. We offer friendly service and affordable per incident rates. (910) 457-0337

D.L. Bianchi’s Brickyard Supply & Construction Company – 7995 River Road, Southport
D.L. Bianchi’s Brickyard Supply can provide homeowners and do it yourselfers with a vast array of masonry, hardscaping, and landscaping products. We can also help you determine the right type of product for your individual project. Our retail store and brickyard carries over a hundred different types of pavers, bricks, and stones to fit your needs. Landscape products such as mulches, decorative gravel, and planting soils are the biggest sellers for our homeowner and do-it-yourself clientele. We can help you with design and layout consulting, material counts, and give you all the information you need to beautify your home or business. If a project seems too big to handle by yourself then we can provide custom installations for all of the products that we sell. D.L. Bianchi’s Construction Company has experienced and knowledgeable staff to complete any custom home improvement project. As we work with our residential and homeowner clients we begin by listening to their needs and wants for the project. Next we work with our clients to establish a budget for the proposed work. It is then very important to establish what the home improvement project will be primarily used for and what type of function it will serve in their day to day lives. From that point we analyze the practicality of the project with the selected materials. Then design and layout is taken into consideration with the site specific conditions. When all of the proper procedures have been executed we are able to establish the cost of the home improvement project and keep those costs in our client’s budget. (910) 454-4445

Island Healing Chiropractic, Massage & Wellness Center – 8809 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island
Your complete wellness center. It is their passion to help you optimize your health and wellbeing by teaching and applying alternative and natural healing methods. Services are complete with Chiropractic Care, Applied Kinesiology, Holistic and Clinical Nutrition, Massage, Health Coaching, Life Coaching, Physical Fitness, Yoga, CranioSacral Therapy, Kids Fitness, detoxification and weight loss support, seminars and classes. They carry a variety of high quality, whole food supplements, food and health care products for all your wellness needs. They are also the home of CRAVE SUPPER, a super food product line developed by Amy Wallace, their Holistic Coach. (910) 278-5877

Josh Davis Roof Cleaning & Pressure Washing – On site
Specializing in low pressure roof cleaning, pressure washing, and soft washing. We take pride in our work, and guarantee your satisfaction. Serving New Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick counties. (910) 508-2433.

Laugh & Breathe Yoga – On-site
Provides on-site personalized yoga classes for corporations, individuals and groups. Our philosophy at Laugh & Breathe Yoga is easy to understand, we want you to laugh, breathe and maybe even stretch a little! We understand the importance of your time and bring all the necessary props for a relaxing yoga practice. Contact us to schedule your on-site customized yoga class. (910) 250-9171

River Road Animal Hospital – 8593 River Road, Se, Southport
A full-service, modern animal hospital offering the highest quality veterinary medicine in a pet-friendly atmosphere. At RRAH, you’ll find a dedicated, compassionate team of veterinary professionals committed to providing outstanding service to your whole family. (910) 454-8910

STAY LOCAL:
Better Beach Rentals & Sales -8601 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island
They offer some of the newest properties on Oak Island. Weekly rentals with 4 bedrooms or more include departure maid service and linens. They also have discount golf packages for Oak Island Golf Course. Book online above or call us at (877) 441-0009

Oak Island Accommodations – 8901 E. Oak Island Drive, Oak Island
Remember the first time you felt the sand between your toes, smelled the salt air and witnessed a sunset over the Atlantic? We’ll help you recapture that feeling of wonder or experience it for the first time. We have over 600 rental properties, from oceanfront to sound side with pet and event-friendly options. Visit our full-service website 24 hours a day for online reservations and availability, as well as specials, concierge services and much more. Your island escape is waiting. Call us today to find your place by the sea! (800) 243-8132