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.
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!
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.
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.
I have tagged along on a surf trip with my husband. It is beautiful here, and remote – on the southwest coast of Nicaragua, about 2 hours drive from the airport in Managua. There’s not much to do here, except surf, fish (if you have the gear, a boat and a guide), play on the Internet, read and run. There aren’t many shells, I was told that was due to the fact that the coral reefs are dead – perhaps from ancient rumblings from nearby volcanoes.
View from our condo
Surf’s up
There are howler monkeys here, they come out at dusk.
According to this video, only the male monkeys howl, and they do so to let other monkeys know that they are here as they are very territorial.
We’ve eaten fresh fish, lobster (small rock lobsters), chayote and tostones (fried plantains) which we prepared ourselves. Tona is the “official” beer of Nicaragua and I found a crisp Chardonnay – Lazo from Chile, which paired very well with the tostones last night.
A couple of two hour flights brought us into Managua from Raleigh via Miami. From there, it was another two hour drive to the coast, the last 30 minutes of which were on a dusty gravel road, which is in the process of being paved.
My inner time clock is still on Outer Banks time. There’s a two hour difference, if 7 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, it’s 5 a.m. here. But I pretty much get up at dawn and go to sleep at dark.
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
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.
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!
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.
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:
“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.
Sunday, August 7th, 2011, marked the tenth anniversary of the Sandbar 5K run in Kitty Hawk. This event benefitted the Outer Banks Relief Foundation, whose focus is to help local people in need. I spoke with Millie Ward, Vice President and Founding Member of the Relief Foundation recently, who said that this event has grown from a 40 person foot race with the finish line being drawn in the sand to a sanctioned run with official timing and over 550 registered runners this year. “This year’s race was our biggest ever, up 100 from last year,” said Millie.
Team Outer Banks Boot Camp
Taking place on the beach at Kitty Hawk, 502 men, women and children participated in the race which was a simple, direct route, out and back 3.1 miles. The race occurred at low tide, and the beach was wide and the sand was packed, perfect conditions.
Sky diving parachutists and the national anthem started the festivities. It was quite a sight! Runners from Texas, Washington (state), New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Ontario, Canada, participated. There was a strong local showing too, with members of the Outer Banks Boot Camps dominating in their red and gold shirts.
I first met Mayo in the fall of 1980 – he was with my father-in-law, H. Wayne Whitley, Jr., of Rocky Mount, on the Outer Banks duck hunting. Several years later, Mayo and his company, Boddie-Noell Enterprises, purchased the company I work for Kitty Hawk Land Company (the original developers of Southern Shores). That’s been over 25 years ago.
Mayo is also one of our property owners at Marshes Light. He and his wife, Jean, enjoy their condo here and you can often seem they scooting around town in their little yellow electric car with Maggie, their yellow lab, in the back.
Mayo’s strong sense of stewardship and preservation are evident in everything he does, from Rose Hill to Hardee’s and real estate developments including The Currituck Club, Marshes Light, Viniterra and Arlington Place. Please watch this recent episode of “Tarheel Traveler” from WRAL in Raleigh: Tarheel Traveler. (sorry about the ad, it’s not long.)
In 1976, I followed a friend to the Outer Banks for the weekend and never left. Well, I did go back to suburban Maryland to get my things and say goodbye to family and friends.
Back then, the Bypass was a two-lane road and they “rolled the sidewalks up after Labor Day.” If you wanted some decent vegetables or fixings for a salad, you pretty much had to grow your own or drive up to Elizabeth City or Virginia and shop in one of the big grocery stores
I lived in a rooming house, Ye Old Cherokee Inn, on the Beach Road in Kill Devil Hills, sharing a room with my friend and the bathroom with quite a few others. It was a big old house with pine bead board on the floors, walls and ceilings. Best of all, it was right across the street from the beach. Alas, it had no heat and when cold weather set in, I was forced to find something else.
When I could afford it, I went to the Galleon Esplanade to shop and bought my bathing suits at Whalebone Surf Shop at Whalebone Junction. Fine dining was at A Restaurant By George and the buffet at the SeaFare couldn’t be beat. For margaritas and fresh southwestern fare, we went to Papagallo’s, and listened to live music at the Soundside, Nepenthe, and the Atlantis. Basic health care was covered locally, but for anything major, we headed to Elizabeth City (where my sons were born) or Tidewater Virginia.
The Outer Banks has changed a lot in the past 30+ years. We’ve got premium grocery stores, great shopping venues, superb restaurants, and excellent medical care, including the Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head. A couple of things still remain the same for me – the beach and ocean, the mild climate, and the small town feel that pervades during the off season and spills over into the summer – the friendly people who make the Outer Banks their home.
They say, “No Pain, No Gain.” After a certain age, though, pain caused by an injury can be a serious setback. I have observed over the past year a couple of friends suffer injuries during the course of their workouts. Just yesterday, a guy in my husband’s bike group had a serious accident and ended up in the hospital with broken ribs, broken clavicle, punctured lung and serious road rash.
Being new to running, I am mindful of my ability and surroundings. I really don’t want to lose a year or so of the progress I’ve made (from regular kickboxing classes) recuperating from a fall or accident. So, I go slow and steady.
Today’s boot camp was all about running. We ran to the pier on the beach and back on the pavement. I’m told it was a little over 5 miles. Unfortunately I wore shoes that are meant for the water (they have little holes in the soles to allow the water to drain out). But I ended up running with shoes full of sand, rubbing a big blister on my instep in the process. There’s no comparison to the injuries that others have suffered, but, still, a simple blister was a huge drain on my focus and ability.
Our instructor, Matt Costa, demonstrated the best way to run. He said “breathe in through your mouth, out through your nose, swing your arms and stretch your legs.” He said to land heel first and roll forward to your toes, eyes on the horizon. I try to visualize and focus on his words as I run, steady and slow.
I woke up to a light drizzle this morning; it was pitch black. No lightning or thunder means Boot Camp is still on. It’s 5:30 a.m., and about 40 of us are in Knuckle-Up’s parking lot, stretching, joking, and wondering what’s in store for us this morning. Cindy and Brenda are celebrating their 50th birthdays and Rev. Jay (our drill instructor) wishes them well and tells us that 50 is only a number, but it will have special meaning today.
So, we ran to the beach, then ran up one way and down the next. After that, we did 50 push-ups, then ran back up the beach and did 50 sit-ups. Thank you birthday girls – why couldn’t you be celebrating your 20th birthdays?
While this was going on, an obstacle course was being set up with rebar and tape – like a bunch of hurdles a horse would jump over. Our task was to partner with someone and crawl under the hurdles (they were about 18 inches off the ground), then run back through the surf, get back in line to hop over the hurdles, then run back through the surf again, to alternately crawl under and shoulder-roll over the hurdles. My partner, Joy, is a veteran Boot Camper, Squad Leader, and far surpasses my physical abilities. She was game to hang with me even though I didn’t attempt a single shoulder-roll (it’s like a somersault only more explosive and I envisioned ending up with my head in the sand and my butt in the air, legs flapping like a fish out of water.)
After running up and down the beach a few times, we lined up at the water’s edge linking arms, hands clasped in front. The surf was rolling in around our feet.
Surfside sit-ups
Birthday Girl Cindy was to my left, cute 20-something blonde (definitely not a beginner) was to my right. I worried that I would go under and drag them down with me. We satdown for sit-ups (don’t those two cancel each other out?) and I manage one fairly well. Then the second sit-up came in unannounced with an unwelcome house guest – a good sized wave – and I was thoroughly soaked, losing my grip, and totally shaken. I was ready to bolt, but Cindy, wise, Birthday Girl Cindy, said “together we’re strong.” And we linked arms again and braved another sit-up in the surf.
Thank you, wise Birthday Girl Cindy, for not letting me wash away to sea! Today’s bottom line: I am reminded (and humbled by) the incredible encouragement, friendship and remarkable strength of my fellow boot campers. Thank you Jay, Dee, Joan, Cindy, Lorena, Joy, Diane, Beth, Beverly, Margaret, Victoria, Elaine, Pam, Chrissy, Christine, Michelle, Jason, Tammy, Brenda, Shannon, Nora, Laura, Billy, Matt and EveryOne for making this a truly, profound experience!
My intention was to blog about Boot Camp from week to week with witty comments and inspiring tales of physical ability and dedication. The truth is I have found myself immersed in something that is shaking out the cobwebs and rattling mindsets I’ve grown accustomed to for the past 30 years.
In my 20’s, I left suburban DC where I grew up and ended up sight unseen on the Outer Banks. Having settled down with a family, kids and a steady job, I haven’t really done anything mind-blowing (for me) since. I stress for me as I do not want to diminish being a wife, having children and being a care-giver to first my mother, then my brother as they battled cancer as anything but mind-blowing, but this Boot Camp thing is mine, I own it – it’s not for anyone else.
The top three benefits that have impacted me are:
Camaraderie and friendship, a sense of belonging
Physical stamina and strength, seeing the flab morph into muscle
Accomplishment, finishing even if I’m the last one.
And the best part of it all is the setting – the reason I fell in love with the Outer Banks so many years ago.
We’re in the process of outfitting our beloved Coors Cottage to be our new guest accommodations for Marshes Light. Previously, our guests enjoyed staying at the Marina Villas, in a three bedroom condominium. As a matter of fact, the last guests who stayed there, fell in love and immediately purchased it – hence the move.
Check out these adorable dishes that Mrs. C found in Hilton Head. They’ll work well with the white dishes and mugs I found at a local store.
The Coors Cottage will bring a new dimension to a visit at Marshes Light. A 2009 Parade of Homes winner, the Coors Cottage blends historical detail and craftsmanship of the past with an upscale, gourmet kitchen and an open and inviting floor plan.
How about a soak in the tub after a full day?
Located on stately Fernando Street, the Coors Cottage is just a short walk to downtown Manteo and quaint shops, restaurants, and Festival Park.
I use a couple of search engines and apps to find information to share with you in this blog including WhosTalking.com and several Google alerts (Outer_Banks, Roanoke_Island, Manteo) that send posts with those names mentioned to my In Box.
Which led me to an article in BClocalnews.com. Written by Jennifer Schell for the Kelowna Capital News, the article lists her “Favourite Things to Share this Holiday Season,” and in which I discovered the other Manteo, a resort in Canada. Kelowna is located in the middle of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley and lays approximately midway between Vancouver and Calgary. Pretty far from Outer Bank’s Manteo.
Let’s see what Kelownan’s want under their Christmas tree:
Homemade crackers at Discover Wines or Okanagan Grocery
A gift certificate to Wine Plus+ Wine School
A Thermomix. Just rated the No. 1 foodie gift on the Food Network
Sea to Sky Seasoning, mini flavoured salts, tins of luscious Fanny Bay Smoked Oysters, smoked salmon, Maldon Sea Salt from Codfather’s Seafood Market
Monika’s coveted Christmas cookie boxes at Okanagan Grocery
Moni’s Nuttier Than A Fruitcakes
Wine
Cheese, Carmelis Goat Cheese and Gort’s Gouda
Jars of grilled artichokes, olives and other Italian delights.
Simply the freshest, best olive oil (and red wine vinegar) from the Olive Oil Merchant—online store offers fast, free delivery in Kelowna (free delivery for olive oil? Wow!)
Beautiful chocolates and chocolate bars from Sandrine Pastry & Chocolate and great Christmas breakfast Ideas and quiche
Chef Rod Butters of Raudz Regional Table now has his personal line of preserves for sale. Drunken Cherries, homemade pickles and more
Chef Bernard’s, Wild Apple Restaurant at Manteo, Blackberry Basil Jam or Star Anise Marinade for your gift basket
Summerhill has the perfect bubbles (including the Cipes Gabriel that won Best International Sparkling wine recently) and decadent Icewine chocolates
Broken Barrel Furniture Company has beautiful wine racks or cheese boards (a place to store all that wine)
BBQ master, chef Martin Laprise’s line of sauces and rubs, including Taboo BBQ with cute, saucy labels
Wrap your wine gifts this Christmas in one of these gorgeous, cozy wine bags made from recycled wool
Gift Certificates to The Rotten Grape for your wine loving pals.
It’s all about food and wine! Here’s a link to the full article: http://www.bclocalnews.com/lifestyles/112039504.html.
There’s always movement on the Outer Banks. Foremost are the ocean and its surf. Each day brings new tides, big, ride-able waves, or small little ankle-slappers. Then there’s the wind, recently blowing in from the northeast, causing ocean over-wash in some areas and high seas.
And this past weekend, it was the Outer Banks Marathon. Sunny skies blessed the weekend’s events, which included an 8K, 5K and Fun Run on Saturday, and the Marathon and Half Marathon on Sunday. With over 7,000 registered runners from all over the world this November, the marathon celebrated its fifth year. The two day event provides a positive economic boost to our local economy in the late fall, (see www.obsentinel.womacknewspapers.com/articles/2010/11/10).
The full marathon runners started in Kitty Hawk on the scenic Woods Road (near the Wright Memorial Bridge); and the half marathon runners started on the ByPass in Nags Head, near Milepost 11. The course takes runners through scenic Nags Head Woods and across the 35 foot tall Washington Baum Bridge to Roanoke Island, through Marshes Light and culminating in downtown Manteo.
As a first time volunteer at the Marathon, I passed out medals and congratulations at the Finish Line. It was incredibly exciting to be a small part of the event and I was humbly dumb-struck at the energy and fortitude of the participants coming across the Finish Line. They were from all over the world, all shapes and sizes, young and old, some very fit, some not so fit. Completing the course is truly admirable!
The Outer Banks provides the perfect venue for running with plenty of opportunities to participate; check out http://outerbanksrunningclub.org for more information and calendar of events. Maybe there’s a Fun Run or 5K in my future!
October 23
The Colony Lost & Found 5k and Fun Run 8 a.m. Fun Run begins at 9:00 a.m. The course will take you through the grounds of The Lost Colony, Fort Raleigh and the woods of Roanoke Island, returning on the bike path and back to The Lost Colony parking lot. For more information and to register please go to: outerbanksrunningclub.org. 100% of event proceeds will go to Food For Thought and The Lost Colony.
October 23
7:30 p.m. Red Clay Ramblers. The Tony® Award-winning Red Clay Ramblers, a North Carolina string band whose repertoire encompasses old-time mountain music, bluegrass country, rock, and the American musical. Performances at First Flight High School, Kill Devil Hills. For more information call 252-255-2274. Saturday evening tickets will be available at the door: $25 per adult; $12 per student.
October 24
The Conner Miller Duo. Indoor Theatre at Roanoke Island Festival Park. 4 p.m. The duo performs traditional renditions of Old-Time, Brother Duets, bluegrass, acoustic and American Roots, as well as original songs. Admission is included in the general admission ticket to the Park. (252) 475-1500. roanokeisland.com.
October 28
Trick or Treat Under the Sea. NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island. 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Ghosts and strange aquatic creatures will greet children as they enjoy this “spooktacular” event. 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. All children must be accompanied by an adult. (800) 832-3474, (252) 473-3494 or ncaquariums.com.
October 28 – 30
The Haunted House at The Lost Colony: QUARANTINE ISLAND. Blood curdling scares from 7:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Box Office opens at 6:00 p.m. Youth under 14 must be accompanied by an adult; not recommended for those under 10. Tickets are $10 per person; $8 per person if purchased before Oct. 28; no refunds. Rain or shine at Waterside Theatre, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Manteo, NC. Proceeds benefit the Roanoke Island Historical Association and Dare Coalition Against Substance Abuse. For advance tickets or information call 252-473-2127 x223 or visit thelostcolony.org.
October 29 – 31, November 5 – 7
Theatre of Dare presents “Sylvia”. Directed by Don Bridge. This show is a “howlingly funny” modern romantic comedy about marriage… and a talking dog. Shows are Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2:00pm, at the COA Roanoke Island Campus. Tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door, and $8 for students with valid school/college identification. For more information, visit theatreofdare.org or call 252-261-4064.
October 29 – 31
Marshes Light Marina 1st Annual King Mackerel Tournament. Guaranteed first place prize of $10,000. Proceeds benefit Outer Banks Relief Foundation and the Town of Manteo Fisherman’s Landing Project. For more information, please call 252-305-4737 or visit marsheslightmarina.com.
October 30
Halloween Parade and Party. Rodanthe-Waves-Salvo Community Building, 23186 Myrna Peters Dr., Rodanthe. 2 to 3:30 p.m. A Halloween parade and party marks the spooky season on Saturday, Oct. 30 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Parade starts at North Beach Campground in Rodanthe and processes along N.C. 12 to the Rodanthe-Waves-Salvo Community Building. Call (252) 987-1303 for information. Visit rwscivic.org. The event is sponsored by the villages’ civic association.
October 30
RIFP Performance Series A& T Presents Dancing & Drumming of Africa & the Caribbean. 2 and 7 p.m. Indoor Theatre at Roanoke Island Festival Park. Dance to the Beat of Africa and the Caribbean: The E. Gwynn Dancers of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University will transport you to the exciting world of African and Caribbean dance. The performances are free and open to the public. (252) 475-1500 roanokeisland.com.
November 3 – 6
53rd Invitational Surf Fishing Tournament. Cape Hatteras Anglers Club, Buxton. Registration – Wednesday, November 3, Team Fishing – Thursday, November 4, Team Fishing – Friday, November 5, Bob Bernard Individual Tournament Saturday, November 6, Tackle Show – Thursday, November 4. capehatterasanglersclub.org.
November 5
First Friday. Downtown Manteo Waterfront. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. First Friday is a fun-filled, family-oriented street festival. The sidewalks pulse with live music, magic, artisans, period-dressed actors, a rock climbing wall and much more. firstfriday-roanokeisland.com.
November 6
RIFP Performance Series A&T presents a Musical program. Indoor Theatre at Roanoke Island Festival Park. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Musical Moods and Melodies: Join the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s Music Programs exciting Jazz Ensemble under the direction of renowned trumpeter Mondre Moffett. The performances are free and open to the public. (252) 475-1500 or roanokeisland.com.
November 8
4th Annual Paul Shaver Memorial Charity Golf Tournament. Sea Scape Golf Links. Registration begins at 11:00 a.m. Shotgun start at noon. Tournament Proceeds will be donated to The Outer Banks Relief Foundation. Entry fee is $100 per person or $400 per team. Fees include: cart and green fees, t-shirt, box lunch and refreshments. Post tournament dinner and raffle follow at The Black Pelican. Dinner Tickets are also available for $20 per person. For more information, contact Michelle Robertson at 252-261-3171. Tournament entry forms are available at The Black Pelican and Sea Scape Golf Links.
November 9 – 14
Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival. Offering over 85 programs in themes ranging from paddling and wildlife photography to birding, natural history and more! (252) 216-9464 or wingsoverwater.org.
November 12
Lecture with Duane River and Charles S. Manooch. Art Gallery at Roanoke Island Festival Park. 7 – 9 p.m. Charles Manooch, author of Fisherman’s Guide: Fishes of the Southeastern United States, and Duane Raver, the book’s illustrator, will discuss their book project and share anecdotes. (252) 475-1500 or roanokeisland.com.
November 13
Outer Banks 8K. Kill Devil Hills, near the First Flight Schools Campus. An out-and-back course which will start in Kill Devil Hills, continue through Nags Head Woods Maritime Forest and finish at the First Flight High School track. obxmarathon.org.
November 13
Outer Banks Fun Run. 10 a.m. A family friendly event where kids and adults can run and walk for the fun of it! Walker-friendly and strollers allowed. obxmarathon.org.
November 13
Outer Banks Jewelry Expo 2010. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Local and regional jewelry designers will gather at Roanoke Island Festival Park Saturday, November 13th for the 2nd annual Outer Banks Jewelry Expo. (252) 475-1500, roanokeisland.com.
November 14 Outer Banks Marathon and Half Marathon. The marathon starts in Kitty Hawk, the half marathon starts at Jockeys Ridge and both cross the beautiful Washington-Baum Bridge and finish on Roanoke Island. obxmarathon.org.
November 19, 20
13th Annual Manteo Rotary Rockfish Rodeo. Outdoor Pavilion at Roanoke Island Festival Park. A fishing tournament sponsored by the Manteo Rotary. (252) 473-6644 or rockfishrodeo.com.
November 20
RIFP Performance Series UNC Chapel Hill presents Opera. Indoor Theatre at Roanoke Island Festival Park. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. UNC Chapel Hill, with Director Terry Ellen Rhodes, will present a program entitled “Scenes from Verdi Operas.” The performances are free and open to the public. (252) 475-1500 or roanokeisland.com.
November 20
7:30 p.m. Greg Gelb Jazz Quartet – Savor the sizzling sounds of this widely popular quartet which encompasses great jazz and swing standards, bebop, early jazz, post bop and originals lead by Gregg Gelb, recipient of the 1997 Jazz Fellowship Award from the NC Arts Council. Performances at First Flight High School, Kill Devil Hills. For more information call 252-255-2274. Saturday evening tickets will be available at the door: $25 per adult; $12 per student.
November 25
15th Annual Advice 5K Turkey Trot. Duck. A great warm up for your Thanksgiving Feast! Starting on Scarborough Lane in Duck with a finish line full of post race festivities! Runners and walkers of all abilities and ages are welcome. active.com.
November 26 – 27
Hangin’ with Santa & Kites with Lights. Kitty Hawk Kites, Nags Head. Children can have their free photo taken with Santa in a demonstration Hang Glider on Friday and Saturday. November 27, watch the night sky magically transform as skilled flyers maneuver their lit stunt kites to the sounds of your favorite holiday songs atop Jockey’s Ridge State Park. (877) FLY-THIS, (252) 441-4124 or kittyhawkkites.com.
November 26 – 27
Hatteras Island Arts and Craft Guild Holiday Show. Cape Hatteras Secondary School, Buxton. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Free admission, food and a scholarship raffle. Local artists. (252) 441-1850.
The weather on the first day of the show was a replay of last year’s weather: lots of wind and rain. The weather cleared up on Friday and sunny skies ruled for the rest of the weekend.
Midshipmen, as the students from the U.S. Naval Academy are known, were seen on the streets in full uniform. Smart and tailored, the midshipmen were no doubt enjoying their victory over the SMU Mustangs in football on Saturday in non-conference action at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.
Oysters Rockefeller, oysters casino, crab balls, duck pot-stickers and pit-cooked beef and turkey were some of the culinary treats we enjoyed at the show and nearby eateries. Walk-ability is of utmost importance, and we found a diverse choice of restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, bookstores and more all close by to our hotel. I discovered a yummy new wine, Main Street Chardonnay from Santa Barbara.
Big and small boats were on display, as well as all sorts of booths selling boat parts, supplies, repair services, equipment, furniture, t-shirts, sunglasses and marinas and marina communities. We were there promoting the Marshes Light Community and Marina and we spoke to a lot of people who told us how much they love visiting Manteo either by boat or car. Manteo has the walk-ability thing going on, too, which will only improve as the retail shops and the Inn in Marshes Light are developed.
