Outer Banks to Roanoke Island, Southern Shores to Marshes Light: exploring life on a barrier island. A guide to fun, family, home, real estate, restaurants, surf, sun and more.
It’s been a gradual change of seasons with lots of things going on on the Outer Banks. I’ve participated in the Outer Banks Triathlon as a member of a relay team – I did the bike portion: 13.1 miles starting at the Dare County Regional Airport over the old Manns Harbor Bridge and back. The ride out was smooth and the views were spectacular, but when I made the turn at Mashoes Road, I hit a wall of wind and it took everything in me to get back across the bridge.
This weekend marked the First Annual Bluegrass Festival at Festival Park in Manteo. This was a sell-out event. Unfortunately I didn’t get to go, but it’s on my calendar for next year. Check out some great photos on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/OBXBluegrassFestival?fref=ts.
View from the Duck Soundside Boardwalk
Today marked the 6th Annual Duck Jazz Festival, featuring The Rippingtons with Russ Freeman, Paula Atherton, THE FUZZ BAND, and Emme St. James and Her Jazz Gentlemen.
Today also marked the final day of the 20th Annual Outer Banks Home Builders Parade of Homes. The homes were selected featuring new designs and many incorporate new technologies, best building practices and ‘green’ features.
The Outer Banks is known for its pristine beaches and casual atmosphere. . Known for its fishing, sand dunes and lighthouses, you’ll also find the Outer Banks offer a wide variety of activities for the whole family
I want to highlight a couple of major events taking place in September:
The ESA EASTERNS are the season’s “grand finale” where the best of the best from each national and international district go head to head to declare the overall champions for the year in each division. For more information, visit: www.surfesa.org.
The Third Annual OBX Triathlon includes Half, Olympic and Sprint distance races through a unique coastal setting on Roanoke Island. Swim, bike & run – compete individually or as a relay team. For more information, visit: www.obxmarathon.org.
The Beach Road took us to the Croatan Surf Club in Kill Devil Hills this past week.
It was on a whim when I responded to an offer by Village Realty on Facebook that they had several condos that weren’t booked. I was floored and completely unprepared when I “won” the condo for the week starting the very next day.
Village Realty makes check-in easy – all I had to do was call for a code to the keyless entry, which was released about an hour before official check-in time. I did not have to stop by their office or pick up a key.
The condo was immaculate and looked as new as it did in 2009 when I attended the grand opening. I was impressed by the quality of construction and materials, such as granite, hardwood floors, stainless appliances and designer fixtures and furnishings. The oceanfront pool was inviting and featured a spa and “spray ground” for kids.
I think the only drawback was that I had no time to pack or plan – we were not able to take off work, and had pets and kids to arrange for, so we did not “staycate” for the full week.
The location is great, centrally located on the Beach Road near Milepost 7 ½. We explored shops and restaurants we don’t normally go to, and enjoyed a lovely dinner at JK’s Restaurant. Succulent steaks, mashers, salad and a glass of wine were delicious in a cozy atmosphere.
And waking up to this view was absolutely spectacular!
The inaugural TowneBank Red Nose Wine Festival last Thursday launched a new event as part of the Christmas in July fundraising benefit for the Outer Banks Relief Foundation. Thankfully the rain held off, and cloudy conditions kept things cool and comfortable.
Marshes Light, downtown Manteo NC
As people milled about in a “Charleston” like setting, music played in the background. The performers included Mojo Collins, Laura Martier, Joe Mapp & The Coordinates, Ruth Wyand, and The Jazzmen. North Carolina wines were featured with Biltmore, Cauble Creek Vineyard, Childress Vineyards, Old North State Winery, Sanctuary Vineyards and Vineyards on the Scuppernong. Additional wines from around the world were provided by Mutual Distributing Company and The Wine Specialist of Kitty Hawk.
Miss Wine Bottle & Shearl Bell, Event Chairperson
There was delicious food from Black Pelican, Café Lachine, Ocean Boulevard and Ortegaz. And, making it a full-on and fun afternoon, there were little shops set up along the Boulevard – Jewelry by Gail, The Cottage Shop and Mothervine Nutraceuticals. Wine, music and shopping? Oh my!
The final word isn’t in on how much was raised for the Relief Foundation, but many of the people involved expressed their enthusiasm with the event. Said Luanne Hege (who had the original vision to make the Wine Festival a reality):
“Our event this past Thursday surpassed our wildest dreams; the weather, which had been flukey at best, settled down, the heat wave broke, and the thunderstorms stayed away. The remarkable (thank you, Roland!) Mike Fitzwater and his group (Special Events) did an outstanding job. The attendance, while under the optimistic 2000 that we kept thinking we’d have, was a very respectable 1390, with all cabanas and reserved tables sold out. (Indeed three of our cabana purchasers have already “signed up” for next year!) Our site, the Marshes Light complex in Manteo, right on Shallowbag Bay, was a terrific venue, right on the water, provided a perfect canvas for our layout.”
It could not have been possible without the help of our volunteers!
My son, Michael, is working at The Wine Specialist in Kitty Hawk. He often calls when there is a new wine or micro-brew on the shelf. He called yesterday to tell me about some artisanal cheeses that just came in and asked me to help spread the word.
Christine McMaster is The Wine Specialist. Originally from Rockville, Maryland, Christine moved to France when she was 20 years old. She learned about grape growing and wine making and received a certificate from the French Department of Agriculture. She moved to the Outer Banks, where she vacationed as a child with her family, and opened her store. Christine brings a level of knowledge and expertise to local wine enthusiasts. She will customize a wine or beer tasting for you in her bright and comfortable tasting “parlor” at her store at MilePost 4 in Kitty Hawk (next door to Capt’n Frank’s).
This assortment of cheeses will certainly pair well with a variety of wines and some may even stand up to a Stout/Porter Ale.
Black Mountain Cheddar – a combination of garlic, herbs and white wine blended with creamy American cheddar makes a potent, assertive cheese. Pairs with dry red wine, such as a very affordable Morro Bay White Oak Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, 2008, in stock for $10.99.
Brillat Savarin Mini, – cow’s milk, triple-crème brie-style cheese from France. This lovely cheese is buttery, rich, creamy and decadent. Incredible on its own or served with a fruit jam on hearty bread. For a special event, serve Brillat Savarin with a bottle Pascal Doque Premiers Crus Champagne from France, in stock at $65.99. Brillat Savarin will also work very well with a Viognier, this one by Bonterra, 2009, is in stock for $19.99.
Brillat Savarin
Manchego Wedge – Perhaps the most famous Spanish cheese, Manchego is a D.O. (Denominacion de Origen) protected cheese, meaning that only 100% Manchego sheep milk is used in a traditional recipe. The breed has proven sturdy enough over the centuries to traverse the rocky, arid central plateau region known as La Mancha- where cows just can’t hang. It has a deep rich flavor and would go well with apple slices, ginger snaps and rich, fruity wines. Traditionally paired with Rioja.
Purple Haze Goat Cheese – sprinkled with tender purple buds of lavender and fennel pollen, Purple Haze goat cheese is intense, floral and piquant. Serve this cheese at room temperature with crackers with this crisp Chardonnay from Argentina: Catena Chardonnay, 2008, in stock $22.99.
2nd Saturdays at RIFP
Storytelling with Elizabeth II Captain Robbie
June 9th from 2-3 p.m. Small Auditorium
Captain Putnam will play video clips of the Elizabeth II under construction and under sail including a clip of its launching on November 22nd, 1983. He will also share stories about working on the ship, for the past 19 years, and sailing her to other ports as an outreach program. Free.
UNC Pembroke- Stuart Little Children’s Show
June 12th, 13th and 14th at 10:30 a.m., Indoor Theatre
Stuart Little is no ordinary mouse. Born to a family of humans, he lives in New York City with his parents, his older brother George, and Snowbell the cat. Though he’s shy and thoughtful, he’s also a true lover of adventure which is reflected in this production.
Tickets are $5 for all 6 years old and older. 5 and under-free.
UNC Pembroke – I Love you, You’re Perfect…Now Change!
June 12th, 13th, and 14th at 7 p.m., Indoor Theatre
This production takes on the comedy and tragedy of relationships with a simplicity and truthfulness that will leave you rolling in the aisles with laughter and quietly wiping tears from your eyes. Filled with the music and style from the 1980’s the audience will be inspired to explore the meaning of love and relationships. Tickets are $10 adults and 6-12 years old – $5. 5 and under are free.
A Soldier’s Life – Summer Kids Program
June 14th from 9-11 a.m., Visitors Center
Learn about the soldiers who came to Roanoke Island by exploring the Settlement Site. Participate in a military drill and make a buckler shield to take home. Ages 7 to 13 $20. Pre-register at (252)475-1500.
75th Anniversary Season – THE LOST COLONY at Waterside Theater
Over 400 years ago, 117 men, women and children sailed from Plymouth, England in an attempt to settle on Roanoke Island; they vanished just two years later. The only clue left behind was the word “CROATOAN” carved into a post. The Lost Colony is their story.
Tickets available at http://thelostcolony.org/tickets/.
Year-long highlights include beautiful winter-time Camellias, spring bulbs, colorful summer landscapes from hydrangeas to crepe myrtles, autumn hues of ornamental grasses and salvia, as well as seasonal events like an Easter Eggstravaganza, Harvest Hayday and WinterLights. The Gardens are founded and supported by The Garden Club of North Carolina.
The Gardens are located at 1411 National Park Drive Manteo, NC 27954 GPS: 35 56.2N 75 42.7w
There’s a bag of fragrant strawberries sitting on the table, along with one perfectly ripe tomato and a bar of home-made lavender soap. They smell heavenly. I found these at the Farmer’s Market in downtown Manteo this morning.
In addition to fresh produce and soaps, there were baked goods, honey, jams and jellies, pottery, weavings, art and jewelry.
Beth also makes the lavender soap that I purchased. Her soaps also come in a variety of other scents and are created from quality ingredients (organic unrefined hemp seed oil, organic extra virgin olive oil, cocoa nut oil, palm oil).
I was enamored by the funky fish and crabs by Michael Tames, a local artist. This Seahorse is my favorite, the body is made of rope – really cool looking, unfortunately my photo does not do it justice.
There’s so much to do on the Outer Banks as the weather warms.
The fish are biting, the beach is
welcoming, kites are flying, local businesses are reopening for the season, and two of my favorite events are back: FIRST FRIDAYS and SATURDAY FARM MARKETS in downtown Manteo.
First Fridays
Held on the first Friday of every month on the Manteo Waterfront. 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Historic Inn Tour from 4 p.m. – 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. Queen Elizabeth Ave., Manteo, NC 27954 Phone: 252-473-2133.
In between work and hosting my niece and her active two year old last week, I volunteered at the Outer Banks Wedding Show on Saturday at the beautiful Sanderling Inn in Duck. It was fun greeting the brides, grooms, friends and family and seeing all the incredible tablescapes and exhibits on display.
Metro Rentals
There are lots of places to get married on the Outer Banks; here are just a few:
The Sanderling in Duck, new for 2012, the Soundside Pavilion will offer lovely water views of the Currituck Sound
The Wedding Show was sponsored by OBXBrides.com and featured over 60 vendors. From cakes and flowers, to music and photography, everything to make a special day perfect was on display.
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.
The Return Saturday, January 21, 2012, 7:30 p.m.
Relish the incredible sounds of The Return bringing you the best songs of The Beatles appearing live on the Outer Banks. Step back in time, listen to the music that has had a profound effect on the world’s musical scene, and be excited by these amazing young musicians. www.thereturnonline.com. Performance at First Flight High School Auditorium
100 Veterans Drive Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
