Category archive for: Uncategorized
January 27, 2012
There are lots of reasons to visit the Outer Banks now: it’s quiet, there are no crowds and there are lots of things to do and see. The beaches are deserted, practically guaranteeing a bounty of shells and sea glass waiting to be found.
Rather than post all the current events here, I highly recommend that you check out www.outerbanks.org. They have a great new look and it’s easy to navigate. The current calendar of events is found here. For art happenings, check out Dare County Arts Council’s stylish new website here.
Be sure to check out Sip & Dip, offered at Art Space in Southern Shores. Workshops by local artists. www.artspace.com.
Off Season usually means discounted rates and local specials. And to me, that means WINE. We are fortunate here to have several great wine shops with knowledgeable vintners and incredible selections.
The Wine Specialist in Kitty Hawk is located at Buccaneer‘s Walk (next to Capt’n Franks). Owned and operated by my friend Christine and her husband, Fernando da Mota, they offer free wine tastings on Wednesday nights from 5 until 8 p.m. It’s a great way to sample new wines before purchasing. My husband especially liked the Highway 12 Cabernet Sauvignon, admiring the ripe aromas of dark berries and soft French oak nuances. I especially like the name.
We recently discovered ½ Price Night at Trio in Kitty Hawk – on Mondays, starting at 5 p.m., all wines by the glass, draft beers and wine station tab cards are 50% off. The wine station is the talk of the OBX. It’s a help-yourself automated station where you can enjoy a taste, half or full glass from a selection of high and medium priced wines. I tried a glass of the Biltmore Viogner 2010 and can heartily recommend it as a well balanced white wine with a smooth finish.
Check back again and I’ll share more on restaurants, shopping and what’s fresh at the Beach Road to Manteo.
Categories: Arts, Food & Wine, Holiday Happenings, outer banks, People of Interest, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Dining, food, Kitty Hawk, Outer Banks things to do, Outer Banks Winter Weather, Things to do, Wine
January 13, 2012
Renaissance Construction recently broke ground for the construction of a three bedroom home in Marshes Light on home site 7. This marks the fourth home in downtown Manteo’s newest neighborhood. Renaissance Construction is owned by Steve Daniels who is the Marshes Light preferred builder.
“I employ the best local craftsmen and personally oversee to be sure each home is well built in a timely and efficient manner.”
There are only a handful of home sites available at Marshes Light, and one or two will boast panoramic views of the Sound. Marshes Light is a unique location connected by a boardwalk to shops, restaurants, theater and Festival Park in downtown Manteo.
Categories: Home & Garden, Land Development, People of Interest, Real Estate, Roanoke Island, Uncategorized.
Tags: manteo, Manteo Real Estate, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, outer banks, Outer Banks Real Estate, Roanoke Island, watefront real estate
January 11, 2012
There are many natural and beautiful places to explore along the Outer Banks. Certainly one of the most beautiful is on Roanoke Island, The Elizabethan Gardens.
“ Built as a living memorial to Sir Walter Raleigh’s lost colonists, The Gardens include a collection of Renaissance statues and Elizabethan-style buildings that let you imagine you are back in the time of Queen Elizabeth I. Spring-time tulips lead to an ever changing palette of year-round color from hydrangeas, native plants, perennials and camellias. Enjoy the colorful crepe myrtles in the Sunken Garden or the view from a sound-side 16th-century style gazebo.”
Upcoming events at the Elizabethan Gardens:
Coldest Day of the Year Plant Sale
Saturday, January 21, 10 a.m. -2 p.m.
Yard sale with books, household items, clothing, damage gift shop items, tools and more. Members receive an additional 10% off all purchases. After the sale enjoy a walk in the Gardens.
State of the Non-Profit Dinner
Wednesday, February 8, 6 – 9 p.m.
The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. The cost is $25. per person for Members/Friends and $30. per person for Non-Members. Please RSVP by Wednesday, February 1, 2012, call Nancy Harvey 252-473-1554 or email marketing@elizabethangardens.org.
Camellia Watercolor Workshop with Linda Miller
February 14, 17, and 16, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
The Gardens have over 300 Japanese camellias in the collection, represented by over 125 cultivars. Learn basic drawing skills, observation, and watercolor techniques to create a botanical painting. Each student will work at their own pace while Linda Miller consults with each student individually. Beginner to advanced welcome. Materials list provided. 3 day class for Members/Friends $135. 3 day class for Non-Members $145. Call 252-473.3234 or email for reservations marketing@elizabethangardens.org.
Categories: Arts, Environment, Historic Architecture, Home & Garden, outer banks, Roanoke Island, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Elizabethan Gardens, manteo, manteo family fun, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, Roanoke Island, Things to do
January 5, 2012
As I was stumbling the Internet the other day, I came across a blog, www.thenester.com. The tagline is “It doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful.”
The gist of the current post, as with most New Year’s posts, is about setting goals. And the goals at The Nester are relative to house and home.
No Water Views Here
Which got me thinking. I live in a 25 year old reverse-floor plan single family home. We’ve made three major renovations, but it’s still a REVERSE FLOOR PLAN. For those of you not familiar with this layout, a reverse floor plan is a house on pilings (typically 8 feet above ground), with a drive under or carport and (hopefully) an entry on the ground floor, bedrooms on the middle floor, and kitchen, living, dining and maybe an extra bedroom on the top floor. A lot of homes on the Outer Banks are built this way to take advantage of views of the ocean or sound from the upper floors.
As the trees grew in our back yard, our views of the ocean dwindled. We haven’t had a view of the water for at least 10 years. We love where we live, but we are over the stairs. We want our main living areas – the kitchen, living and master bedroom to share the same floor at ground level. But tearing down and starting over is a major expense and not in our foreseeable budget.
So we’re stuck in a mode of not doing anything, except basic maintenance. But the post at The Nester made me take pause and think about making some goals of my own. Here are a few of her ideas (I won’t list them all here, just the ones that spoke to me):
- What’s my favorite room in my house? Why?
- How and where does my family hang out together? What’s working for that room? What’s annoying in that room?
- Is there something in my home I want to do but I’m afraid? What if I take that risk? What’s the worst that can happen?
- Am I neglecting my home and not putting money into something that is needed?
- Stop apologizing for my home.
Categories: Home & Garden, outer banks, Real Estate, Remodeling, Uncategorized.
Tags: Design, Floor Plans, outer banks, Outer Banks Real Estate
December 29, 2011
Wishing you and
yours a happy and healthy New Year!
Photo by Amanda Mager
Categories: Arts, Fitness, Holiday Happenings, Home & Garden, Land Development, Marshes Light Marina, outer banks, Real Estate, Roanoke Island, Things to do, Uncategorized.
Tags: Boats, Fall Outings, Family Reunions Outer Banks Summer Fun, manteo, Manteo Real Estate, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, outer banks, Roanoke Island, Running Events, Walking Neighborhood in Small Coastal Town
December 26, 2011
Despite a sluggish real estate market in 2011, Marshes Light has withstood not only foreclosures and lowered property values around the Outer Banks, but also Hurricane Irene in late August. The storm created minor damage to the electrical boxes at the marina and the elevator pads in the buildings. All have been fixed or in the process of being repaired.
Sales in 2011 included two marina villas and two home sites with a new home currently under construction. Interesting fact – there have been no re-sales at Marshes Light indicating that Marshes Light is a highly coveted community with a great deal of pride of ownership.
We are developing plans and pricing for the next condominium building, The Camellia. Located on the Marina, every villa within will face east with panoramic views of the Roanoke Sound. The building will house eight villas, three with two bedroom villas, and five with three bedrooms. With a lot of interest in the Camellia, we anticipate heavy demand for these eight villas; so be sure to let me know if you would like to be included on updates and sales information.
View from The Camellia
Our sales office is located on the Marina at 301 Dartmoor Lane. Phone 252-475-9863 or visit us at www.marsheslight.com.
Have a healthy and happy New Year!
Categories: Uncategorized.
December 20, 2011
From http://www.linkedin.com/news
By Les Christie @CNNMoney December 15, 2011: 1:44 PM ETN
NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — Mortgage rates sunk to record lows again this week. The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage fell to 3.94%, matching the all-time low hit in early October, according to Freddie Mac’s weekly mortgage rate survey.
Meanwhile, 15-year fixed-rate loans hit a new record low of 3.21%, surpassing the record set on October 6. Five-year adjustable rate mortgages also plumbed new depths, hitting 2.86% for the week. “We’ve been hanging around record lows for a few months now and we finally hit another one,” said Keith Gumbinger of HSH Associates, a provider of mortgage data.
Low-interest mortgages will be available at least through mid-2012, according to Freddie Mac’s chief economist, Frank Nothaft.
The low rates can translate into big savings for home buyers. Five years ago, a home buyer would have been lucky to land a 5% rate on a 15-year loan. On a $200,000 mortgage, that would have meant the borrower would have paid $1,582 a month. Should a borrower land a 3.2% rate on a $200,000 loan now, the monthly mortgage payment would come to $1,400 — a savings of $182 a month.
Categories: Financing, Mortgage Rates, News, Real Estate, Uncategorized.
Tags: Interest Rates, Manteo Real Estate, Mortgage News
December 13, 2011
Dates are subject to change. Telephone area code is (252) unless otherwise specified.
Free Admission at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island with donation to “Santa Paws” program for our four-legged friends. Santa Paws needs donations of 7 lbs. of dog, puppy, cat or kitten food, rawhides, pillow cases, bleach, dog shampoo, blankets, paper towels and clumping kitty litter. All of these items will be placed under our Santa Paws Christmas Tree for delivery on December 23rd to the Outer Banks SPCA Animal Shelter in Manteo. The Aquarium is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information call 252-473-3494 or visit ncaquariums.com.
Bears that Care
December 1 – December 19
Outer Banks Bear Factory, MP 12.5, Across from Jockey’s Ridge. Bears that Care is a program that the Outer Banks Bear Factory has started to assist Hotline in their effort to help the children of Dare County have a good memory at Christmas. For every 16″ animal purchased the Outer Banks Bear Factory will donate an 8″ animal to Hotline for their Christmas Toy Drive. Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (252) 255-5222 or obxbear@charter.net.
50% off Storewide Sale – The Christmas Shop, Manteo
December 3 – 31. 50% off Storewide Holiday Sale! The best sale of the year! Plus 25% off all books at Manteo Booksellers. outerbankschristmas.com.
Art and Spirit: Sacred Works by Sixty Artists
December 3 – 22. Art Gallery at Roanoke Island Festival Park. (252) 475-1500 or roanokeisland.com.
WinterLights
December 13-30. Elizabethan Gardens. 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Holiday lights and music transforming The Elizabethan Gardens into an illuminated winter wonderland complete with peacocks, butterflies, deer and other garden creatures created with flowers, seeds, natural elements, as well as traditional holiday decorations. Festive trees grace the Gatehouse, Reception Hall and great Lawn. Garden plant sales will feature winter annuals; ornamental vegetables; forced bulbs; rosemary Christmas Trees; and conifers with bows. Tickets for Friends’ and Non-members: $9 for Adults; $7 for youth (ages 6-17); $4 for children (5 and under). elizabethangardens.org.
Dinner with Santa
December 16. Elizabethan Gardens. 6 – 9 pm prices are reduced. Celebrate the holidays with your child by dining with Santa in the magically decorated Embellished Hall at The Elizabethan Gardens. Bring your camera or purchase photos by professional photographer. Your ticket includes dinner, Santa and WinterLights. Dinner seating is at 6 pm, 7 pm, or 8 pm. Friends’ tickets: Was $35 now $25 for Adults; Was $20 now $12 for youth (ages 6-17); $6 for children (5 and younger). Non-members tickets: Was $40 now $27 for Adults; Was $22 now $14 for youth (ages 6-17); $8 for children (5 and younger). elizabethangardens.org.
Kids Craft Day
December 17 & 21. Elizabethan Gardens. 10 a.m. – Noon. Arts and crafts activity, healthy snacks, lunch, story time and a special stroll through The Gardens. Kids will enjoy seasonal and will delight in seeing floral creations of peacocks, butterflies and deer! Make sure they bring their coats! Space limited to 30 children. Friends’ $15; Non-members $20.elizabethangardens.org.
Annual Centerpiece Sale
December 15. Front Porch, Nags Head & Manteo. 7 – 10 a.m. The Dare County Master Gardeners Club will be hosting their annual Centerpiece Sale Stop by and purchase some festive, handmade, holiday greenery for your home or office.
108th Annual Celebration of the Wright Brothers First Flight
December 17. Wright Brothers National Memorial. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The daylong anniversary tribute will be held at the site of Wright’s first flight. Visitors to the site experience a replica of the Wright Brothers’ 1903 encampment and majestic, 60-foot tall granite monument perched atop a 90-foot hill that serves a striking and lasting reminder of the important historical achievement that happened on this site a century ago. outerbanks.org.
UNC Greensboro Amahl and the Night Visitors
December 18. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Indoor Theatre at Roanoke Island Festival Park. The tender, heartwarming story of Amahl and the Night Visitors is one of the most popular of American operas. Tickets are $10 adults and $5 for those 12 and under. roanokeisland.com.
Let’s Eat!
December 21. NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. For ages 8-12. Spend a day learning what it takes to feed our sharks, sting rays, otters, and other residents. Campers will get to observe mealtime in action for some of the animals as they feast. Cost: $25 per camp. Closed toe shoes and a bag lunch required each day.
“Snakes, Gators, & Frogs, Oh My!”
December 29 NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. For ages 8-12. The Aquarium has so much more to see than just fish. See how many reptiles and amphibians live at the Aquarium and learn about their care and interesting behaviors. Cost: $25 per camp. Closed toe shoes and a bag lunch required each day.
Categories: Arts, Dining, Holiday Happenings, Home & Garden, outer banks, People of Interest, Pets, Roanoke Island, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Christmas, manteo family fun, Outer Banks Christmas, Outer Banks things to do, Things to do, travel
December 7, 2011
This is the architect’s rendering of Marshes Light in Manteo, NC. Retail shops and restaurants along the water, homes and condominiums nearby, and a bustling marina. This new community is located within walking distance on a soundside boardwalk to historic Manteo with a variety of dining, shopping and cultural activities.
Categories: Arts, Historic Architecture, Home & Garden, Land Development, marina, Marshes Light Marina, outer banks, Real Estate, Roanoke Island, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: manteo, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, outer banks, Roanoke Island, Walking Neighborhood in Small Coastal Town, watefront real estate
November 25, 2011
- Starting the day with my Boot Camp friends in the Gobbler 5K in Nags Head was great.
- Happy birthday wishes to my friends Sharon, Cathy & Shearl.
- Cool winds gave way to warm sunshine.
- Turkey took forever to cook.
- Son’s mashed potatoes were the best I ever ate (secret ingredient parmesan cheese, but not too much).
- Son told me about the oysters he and his girlfriend gathered down near the new inlet at Rodanthe, found enough up to feed them for a few days – salty plump oysters, he made oyster stew (he is very talented in the kitchen).
- Next time I’m going to slow-cook a turkey in a crock pot with cranberry barbeque sauce.
- I am thankful for my family, health, friends, pets and this beautiful community I live.
Categories: Environment, Fall Weather, Fitness, Food & Wine, Holiday Happenings, outer banks, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Fall Outings, Fitness, fresh seafood, Nags Head, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, Running Events, travel, Walking Neighborhood in Small Coastal Town
November 16, 2011
Categories: Environment, Fall Weather, Home & Garden, outer banks, Things to do, Uncategorized.
Tags: Fall Outings, manteo, Manteo Real Estate, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, Roanoke Island, Things to do, Walking Neighborhood in Small Coastal Town
November 15, 2011
The Outer Banks Marathon and related events happened this past weekend, November 11-13. The weather was perfect, sunny with temperatures in the upper 60’s. This was the first time I have ever participated in a big race, and I’m happy to say that I finished the Half Marathon in a little over 2 hours and 20 minutes. The course was incredible providing views of the Sound, and winding along Nags Head Golf Links, over the bridge to Manteo. I drive to Manteo every day to my office at Marshes Light, but running part of that route gives me a whole new perspective.
There were 1,215 runners in the Marathon and 2,757 runners in the Half, and the oldest runner was 83 years old! In addition to the Marathon held Sunday, on Saturday there were the Outer Banks 8K starting at the First Flight High School track, the Buccaneer 5K and a Fun Run. It was a great family weekend with something for everyone.
Franco's & daughters at the Finish
Categories: Fall Weather, Fitness, outer banks, People of Interest, Sporting Events, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Fall Outings, Fitness, manteo, manteo family fun, marinas in manteo NC, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, Nags Head, OBX Marathon, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, Running Events, travel
November 10, 2011
Marathon Fever!
Last day of Marathon Training was held this morning. We ran about 5 miles early this morning and witnessed a beautiful (almost) full moon setting over the Sound at Kitty Hawk Bay. Coaches Matt and Jay gave us a pep talk and reviewed what to expect and several things to avoid on race day (i.e., stick to your plan, avoid trying anything new – no new socks!).
We’ve been enjoying lots of sunshine and temperatures in the mid to high 60’s. Sunday – race day – is expected to be partly cloudy and temperatures in the mid 60’s.
On Sunday, traffic to Manteo from the beach will be diverted over the bridge to Manns Harbor and back to Manteo via the old Manns Harbor bridge.
For important Marathon information, click here: www.obxmarathon.org/Top_Nav/Outer_Banks_Marathon/need2knowinfo.htm.
To view the course map, click here: http://www.obxmarathon.org/Top_Nav/Outer_Banks_Marathon/fpraces_courseinfo.htm.
Wish me luck! This is my first ever Half Marathon!
Categories: Fall Weather, Fitness, outer banks, Roanoke Island, Sporting Events, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Fall Outings, Fitness, manteo, manteo family fun, Marathon, Nags Head, OBX Marathon, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, Running Events, travel
November 5, 2011
“Shrimp is the fruit of the sea. You can barbecue it, boil it, broil it, bake it, sautee it. There’s, um, shrimp kebabs, shrimp creole, shrimp gumbo, pan fried, deep fried, stir fried. There’s pineapple shrimp and lemon shrimp, coconut shrimp, pepper shrimp, shrimp soup, shrimp stew, shrimp salad, shrimp and potatoes, shrimp burger, shrimp sandwich… That’s, that’s about it.”
Bubba Blue from the film, FORREST GUMP.
The second annual Shrimp CookOff will be held on Sunday, November 6, at Ocean Boulevard Bistro & Martini Bar on the Beach Road in Kitty Hawk – from 12:00 noon until 3:00pm. This casual, fun competition was a huge success in 2010 and raised almost $5,000 to benefit the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research.
There will be nine competing chefs from around the Outer Banks, cooking fresh, local shrimp in their favorite style of preparation. A DJ will be keeping up with announcements and door prizes and a silent auction will also be held on the second floor of Ocean Boulevard, with a People’s Choice Ballot. The bar will be open serving Beer & Wine specials along with your favorite beverage. The cost per person is $20 at the door, and tickets can be bought in advance at Ocean Boulevard, or at Outer Banks Veterinarian.
Categories: Dining, Fall Weather, Food & Wine, outer banks, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Dining, Fall Outings, food, fresh seafood, Outer Banks things to do, Roanoke Island
November 4, 2011
- I
- Early morning rainbow, sound-side OBX.
It was a warm and rather cloudy morning, a little breezy and good conditions for an easy 3 mile run around the neighborhood with my friend Amanda. We headed towards the ocean and saw a patch of blue sky (Carolina Blue, that is) and then followed the road in the opposite direction. There it was, a beautiful crystal clear rainbow.
Lots of people around the Outer Banks also saw it and captured it on film, this photo looks like Colington in Kill Devil Hills.
The weather steadily deteriorated and we’ve been experiencing a coastal storm with spitting rain and northeast winds of about 25 mph.
If you’re thinking of visiting this weekend, here’s what to expect from the weather:
Tonight
 |
Mostly cloudy. Rain likely this evening. A slight chance of rain after midnight. Very windy with lows in the lower 50s. Northeast winds 25 to 35 mph and gusty. Chance of rain 70 percent. |
Saturday
 |
Partly cloudy and very windy. Highs around 60. Northeast winds 25 to 35 mph with higher gusts. |
Saturday Night
 |
Mostly cloudy and windy. Lows in the lower 50s. Northeast winds 20 to 30 mph. |
Sunday
 |
Partly sunny and breezy. Highs in the lower 60s. Northeast winds 15 to 20 mph. |
Sunday Night
|
Mostly cloudy in the evening…then becoming partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 50s. Northeast winds 10 to 15 mph. |
Monday
|
Partly cloudy. Highs in the mid 60s. |
Looking forward, especially to the Outer Banks Marathon weekend on November 12-13, the Farmer’s Almanac predicts sunny & cool. The next full moon will be on November 10. I’m thinking of a walk on the beach when the wind calms down – a great time to find shells, beach glass and other treasures, followed by home-made chili or oyster stew! So come on down and discover why so many people love Fall on the Outer Banks!
Categories: Environment, Fall Weather, Fitness, Roanoke Island, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Fitness, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, Outer Banks things to do, travel, Walking Neighborhood in Small Coastal Town
October 26, 2011
I was approached by a neighbor recently about listing her home in Southern Shores for sale. Having been focused on Marshes Light in downtown Manteo for several years, I told her I was a bit rusty in the market outside of Marshes Light, but would welcome the opportunity to prepare a CMA, or comparative market analysis. After all, this would also reveal my own home’s current worth.
Our local realtor group uses a multiple listing service by Paragon. We recently converted to the newest version and it’s been a bit of a chore learning the new technology. It does have a great CMA wizard and it allowed me to enter information about the subject property (which can later be converted it to an active listing) and gather comparable properties, both active, sold and under contract listings. Using the wizard, I was able to prepare an attractive, easy to understand presentation that gave my neighbor a clear idea of what her property is worth in today’s market.
I also learned that the real estate market is strong on the Outer Banks. On a national level, a recent CNN Money article states that “home prices continued a winning streak in August, the fifth straight month of price gains, but remain lower on a year-over-year basis.”
This new listing caught my eye:
Southern Shores west-side, 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home sits on a large lot with pool has a newly renovated professional kitchen with stainless appliances and granite counter tops. There are lots of decks overlooking a large pool. The home was built in 1989 by Olin Finch, and will appeal to a year-round family or rental investment buyer. $419,000. MLS 72296.
Categories: Home & Garden, outer banks, Real Estate, Uncategorized.
Tags: outer banks, Outer Banks Real Estate, Outer Banks things to do, Southern Shores Homes for Sale
October 21, 2011
AT THE ELIZABETHAN GARDENS
October 22 – Autumn Finale with Brent Heath
12noon-2p.m. Workshop for Adults Autumn Finale with Fall Flowering Bulbs – We’ll guide you through the process of adding interesting, new colors to your garden that will change it from a ‘waning garden’ to a colorful, end of the season gala. For more information contact nharvey@elizabethangardens.org.
October 29 – Harvest Hay Day
Fun, food and festivities; stuff a scarecrow and learn at our discovery stations. Hot cider, pumpkin pie and bonfires are sure to warm your heart. We will also crown Miss Mum and The Chrysanthemum King this year (For children 6 and under.)
October 29 – Harvest Hoedown ~ Diamonds and Denim
Evening Adult Fund Raising Event for the Elizabethan Gardens. Wear your blue jeans with your diamonds and have a good old fashion hoedown with dancing, food and seasonal harvest fun like hay rides and dancing. Enjoy the harvest moon as well as a silent and live auction. Ticket Price $50 per person. Contact nharvey@elizabethangardens.org.
AT THE AQUARIUM ON ROANOKE ISLAND
October 27 – Trick or Treat Under the Sea
Popular event! 6 – 8:30 p.m. Ghosts and strange aquatic creatures will greet children as they enjoy this “spooktacular” event. Hosting the event is Count Sharkula who always scares up lots of ghoulish fun. Crazy costume contests, creepy crafts, spine-tingling scream contests and yummy munchies are just a few of the things to howl about. Tickets are limited. (252) 473-3494 or www.ncaquariums.com.
DOWNTOWN MANTEO
November 4 – First Friday
Manteo Waterfront. 4– 8 p.m. Historic Inn Tour from 4 – 6 p.m. (tour maps at Dare County Arts Council), Live music from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. (Blue grass to Jazz to Classic Rock ‘n Roll), Boutiques and Restaurants open late, Enjoy family friendly activities, Famous rock climbing wall, Historical interpreters in period costumes and more.
November 4 – 29 Art, Automata and Christmas Clocks by Michael Davis
Art Gallery at Roanoke Island Festival Park. (252) 475-1500 or www.roanokeisland.com.
November 4 – 30 Nancy Pederson: A Fiber Exhibit (Vault Gallery)
Dare County Arts Council. Opening Reception Friday, 6 pm – 8pm. For more information, please call (252) 473-5558; www.darearts.org.
November 5 – South Arts Film Festival – Ahead of Time
7 p.m. Indoor Theatre at Roanoke Island Festival Park. The event is sponsored by the Dare County Arts Council. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at http://darearts.org/film-media. For more information call 252-473-5558 or visit www.darearts.org.
November 12 -Outer Banks Jewelry Expo
Art Gallery at Roanoke Island Festival Park. Local and regional designers showcase a wide variety of their jewelry and metal work in this expo. Demonstrations included. (252) 475-1500 or www.roanokeisland.com.
RUNNING EVENTS
November 12 – Outer Banks 8K, Buccaneer 5K & Fun Run
The Outer Banks 8K is an out-and-back course which will start in Kill Devil Hills at the First Flight High School track (in front of the grandstand), continue through Nags Head Woods Maritime Forest and finish at the track. The course is partly on a dirt road and is walker-friendly.
Buccaneer 5K & Fun Run presented by Kelly Hospitality Group
An out-and-back course (part of the Outer Banks 8K course), which begins at First Flight High School (FFHS) track in Kill Devil Hills, enters and returns along Old Nags Head Woods Road, and finishes at FFHS.
November 13 – Outer Banks Marathon and Half Marathon
The marathon starts in Kitty Hawk, the half marathon will begin in Nags Head, near the largest sand dune on the East Coast at Jockey’s Ridge State Park and both cross the beautiful Washington-Baum Bridge and finish on Roanoke Island.
www.obxmarathon.com or register online at http://www.active.com/marathon/to-nags-head-nc/outer-banks-marathon-half-marathon-8k-5k-and-fun-run-2011.
November 24 – Annual Outer Banks Gobbler 5K and Little Giblet Fun Run
8 a.m. Run, walk, stroll through the picturesque Village of Nags Head and enjoy views of the Roanoke Sound! Post Race Feast! Pumpkin Cheesecake to the Overall Finisher who gets bragging rights at the 2011 Outer Banks Gobbler! Presented by the Outer Banks Running Club. Register at http://www.fsseries.com/index.php?action=event&event_id=163.
FISHING
November 19 – 14th Annual Manteo Rotary Rockfish Rodeo
Outdoor Pavilion at Roanoke Island Festival Park. A fishing tournament sponsored by the Manteo Rotary. (252) 473-6644 or www.rockfishrodeo.com.
For more fishing information, check out http://www.outerbanksfishing.com.
Categories: Arts, Environment, Fall Weather, Fitness, Holiday Happenings, Home & Garden, outer banks, Roanoke Island, Sporting Events, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Fall Outings, Fishing Tournament, manteo family fun, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, Roanoke Island, Things to do
October 17, 2011
About a month ago, the Town of Manteo provided a dump truck load of fossil/spent oyster shells to Marshes Light. This past Saturday (October 15) a group of volunteers bagged the shells for placement along the marsh to help stabilize an eroding expanse of coastal marsh – one of the last of its kind in Town limits. The bagged shells will be used much like rip rap or wood and vinyl bulkheads; however, this method utilizes natural materials.
The volunteer effort was part of an overall project aimed at creating a “living shoreline” to protect a Juncus marsh that is part of the Marshes Light Development in downtown historic Manteo. The “living shoreline” stabilization will allow the marsh to regenerate along its eroding fringe and return valuable oyster shells to our waters. These shells will also provide a great home to numerous marine creatures.
Thriving coastal marshes are vital to the overall health of our estuary, effectively filtering nutrients, fine sediments and toxins from overland runoff. These critical habitats also support fisheries and protected resources by improving water quality and buffering shorelines.
It was an interesting process and hard, dirty work. We used UV resistant netting material (used and recommended in the aquaculture industry) which was stretched over a piece of PVC pipe that was about 36” long and 8” in diameter. Wearing thick gloves, we placed the shells into the pipe with bag stretched and when full, the pipe was pulled out of the bag and the bag tied. Each bag was estimated to weigh about 30-35 pounds!
Once the necessary permits are in place, the next step will be to load the bags onto a barge and haul them over to the marsh. The Town also plans to install native marsh plants along the landward side of the stabilized shoreline next spring.
This project is an on-going and volunteer collaborative effort between Marshes Light new home community, the Town of Manteo, Quible & Associates, P.C., and our many friends! Check back in early next spring for information about volunteering for more projects along the Manteo waterfront.
I want to give special thanks to Marshes Light owners, Bob & Joan Ciardi (and friends), Jim Lambie and Jeff & Carol Nease for their hard work!
Categories: Environment, Fall Weather, Home & Garden, Land Development, marina, Marshes Light Marina, outer banks, Roanoke Island, T Shirts, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Environment, fresh seafood, manteo, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, Outer Banks things to do, Oysters, Roanoke Island, Walking Neighborhood in Small Coastal Town
October 8, 2011
There were over 850 cyclists registered for the 2011 Cycle North Carolina “Mountains to Coast” October 1 to October 8; and they arrived in Manteo yesterday afternoon. It was a beautiful, sunny day for their ride from Plymouth, 80 miles inland.
Photo by Wayne Whitley
Working with Cycle NC event organizers, the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, College of the Albemarle, Town of Manteo, and the Marshes Light community, we gave them a warm and exciting welcome. Shuttle service provided transportation to area hotels and restaurants. A good number of cyclists camped on COA property and walked over to Manteo on the sound-side boardwalk, a short walk to First Friday with live music, food, wine, and other festivities.
They leave Manteo on Saturday and ride to Corolla, 61 miles, along the Beach Road for the last leg of the trip.
For more information about Cycle North Carolina and future rides, click here.
Directions to downtown
Categories: Cycling, Fall Weather, Fitness, outer banks, Roanoke Island, Sporting Events, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Cycling, Fall Outings, manteo family fun, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, Outer Banks things to do, Roanoke Island, Things to do, travel, Walking Neighborhood in Small Coastal Town
October 1, 2011
Back of Shirt
Categories: Arts, Fall Weather, Marshes Light Marina, outer banks, Roanoke Island, Sporting Events, T Shirts, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Fall Outings, Fishing Tournament, manteo, manteo family fun, marina, marshes light new home community in historic manteo, Outer Banks Christmas, Outer Banks things to do, T Shirts
September 21, 2011
For more information and registration, visit www.marsheslightmarina.com.
Categories: Fall Weather, marina, outer banks, Roanoke Island, Sporting Events, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: boating, Fishing Tournament, manteo, manteo family fun, marina, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, Roanoke Island, Walking Neighborhood in Small Coastal Town
September 20, 2011
This article is reprinted with permission.
By Hugh “Scooter” Willey, Jr. (email: hughwilley
sunrealtync
com)
NC Real Estate Broker with Sun Realty of the Outer Banks
The real estate market has been a bruising one, for both pockets and egos, over the past several years. Yet, signs of stabilization are beginning to show in the Outer Banks Real Estate Market. Buyers are in all earnestness beginning to search for homes, sensing the “bottom” is near (or passed), inventory is down (good for sellers) and ‘bank owned” properties have slowed. It is also noteworthy that as a resort community the median sales price is increasing.
For those interested in the Outer Banks Real Estate Market, I have posted the following comparison of the first 8 months of 2011 to the first 8 months of 2010 (source: Outer Banks Association of Realtors MLS).
Overall Sales
| Total Property Sales |
|
2010 |
2011 |
Change |
| Residential |
919 |
923 |
* |
| Land |
167 |
201 |
+20% |
| Commercial |
11 |
15 |
+36% |
| Total |
1097 |
1137 |
+4% |
* Insignificant
Distressed Property Sales
| Distressed Property Sales |
|
2010 |
2011 |
Change |
| Potential Short Sale |
102 |
128 |
+25% |
| Bank Owned |
247 |
231 |
-7% |
| Total |
349 |
359 |
+3% |
Median Sale Price
| Median Sale Price |
|
2010 |
2011 |
Change |
| Single Family Residential |
$300,000 |
$343,154 |
+14% |
| Condo |
$199,000 |
$183,233 |
-8% |
| All Residential |
$269,900 |
$297,522 |
+11% |
Inventory
| Current Inventory |
|
2010 |
2011 |
Change |
| Residential |
2191 |
1849 |
-16% |
| Land |
1325 |
1146 |
-14% |
| Commercial |
124 |
147 |
+19% |
| Total |
3640 |
3142 |
-14% |
Categories: Home & Garden, Land Development, Real Estate, Uncategorized.
Tags: Manteo Real Estate, Nags Head, outer banks, outer banks condominiums, watefront real estate
September 12, 2011
The Outer Banks has been a mecca for physical activity ever since the surfboard was first introduced to the natives. Over the years, due to the demand in current trends of recreation, tennis courts, golf courses, health clubs and bike paths have added to the Outer Banks environment.
With a mild Fall and Spring season and a beautiful coastal setting, the Outer Banks is the perfect destination to host a variety of events and competitions. Coming up this Fall (with links for more information) are:
Outer Banks Triathlon, September 10-11, Manteo
2nd Annual Get Pumped for Pink 10K, September 24, 2011 8 a.m.
2011 Easterns® — Grand Finals Surfing Competition, September 18 – Saturday September 24th Jennette’s Pier (mile post 16.5) in Nags Head
“Mountains to the Coast” Fall Ride, Saturday, October 1 to Saturday, October 8. The ride will begin in Elkin, NC and end at Heritage Park in Corolla, with final lay-over on Friday, October 7, at the campus of COA in Manteo.
First Friday Festival, downtown Manteo, October 7, 4 – 8 p.m.
2nd Annual Fishing Tournament Super Slam - October 14 – 16
Outer Banks Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K, 5K & Fun Runs, Weekend of November 11-13.
Photo by Rev. Jay Bowman
Categories: Fall Weather, Fitness, outer banks, People of Interest, Sporting Events, Things to do, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: Cycling, Fall Outings, Fitness, Nags Head, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, Roanoke Island, Running Events, travel
September 1, 2011
There’s been plenty written and photos posted of the effects and damages caused by Hurricane Irene. Like a bad house guest, Irene came to the beach, was demanding, made of big mess and left in a huff.
Along the Outer Banks, we are busy cleaning up and putting our lives back together. There has been a great outreach by locals and local businesses, the Red Cross and the Outer Banks Community Foundation to help those in need. Here are some links for information and donations:
http://www.obcf.org/home.htm
http://outerbanksvoice.com/
http://www.gaacarc.org/ (local chapter of American Red Cross)
After it was all over, aside from the cleanup efforts, there was much to appreciate, most of all is the beautiful weather we are currently enjoying. There’s always treasure to be found after a storm, such as these intact conch shells and beach glass found on the beach near my house the day after the storm.
Categories: outer banks, Roanoke Island, travel, Uncategorized.
Tags: manteo, Manteo Real Estate, Nags Head, outer banks, Outer Banks things to do, weather
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