Sorry for the lack of blogs lately. It has been getting busier on the island and the days run together into a blur until you stop and realize how much time has passed. I started working on a blog about graduation but suddenly I realized that the 4th of July is just a week away. The graduation blog will be posted soon.
Independence Day is always an adventure on Ocracoke Island. There are many events planned and it is no doubt the most crowded day of the year. Or maybe it just seems more crowded because everyone is all out doing a lot of the same things in the same place at the same time. However, we do get a lot of "day-trippers" who come down just for the 4th of July fun.
Here is the schedule for the 4th of July events on Ocracoke Island:
9 AM-FLAG RAISING CEREMONY on School Circle, School Road performed by the Ocracoke Boy Scouts
9:30 AM till Noon-ANNUAL SAND SCULPTING CONTEST at the NPS Lifeguard Beach
10 AM till Noon-OCRACOKE PONIES behind the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum
10 AM till 2 PM-CLASSIC CARS on the lawn at the Pony Island Motel Pool area
10 AM till 2 PM-OCRACOKE LIGHTHOUSE open for public viewing-WALKING SUGGESTED, VERY LIMITED PARKING
3 PM-OLD TIME OCRACOKE PARADE-must register by 6 PM July 3rd. Forms may be picked up at the Post Office or th OPS Museum
PARADE ROUTE: Line up on HWY 12 beginning at Captain Ben's Restaurant, follow HWY 12 south, left onto Lighthouse Road, right onto Creek Road, right onto Silver Lake Drive, follow road around Silver Lake Harbor to the OPS Museum.
JUDGING WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE ISLAND INN BALCONY.
AT PARADE'S END at the OPS Museum-National Anthem, Entertainment and Awards for parade entrants.
9 PM-FIREWORKS will be located behind the NCCAT Campus. The fireworks can be viewed from many areas on the island but the most popular viewing spot is the large parking lot by the OPS Museum. The parking lot will be blocked off so WALKING IS SUGGESTED.
PLEASE REMEMBER: PYROTECHNICS OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING FIRECRACKERS, FIREWORKS AND HAND-HELD SPARKLERS, ARE ILLEGAL ON OCRACOKE ISLAND. POSSESSION AND USE OF PYROTECHNICS COMES WITH A HEAVY FINE!
Rain date for 4th of July events is July 5th.
(Sponsored by the Ocracoke Preservation Society and the Ocracoke Civic and Business Association)
I hope everyone has a safe, fun and happy Independence Day! Please remember to watch out for your own safety and the safety of others so we can all have a great time! I hope to see a lot of smiling faces and the only sirens I want to hear are the ones in the Parade!
]]>Wildfire and Rules of the Roadtag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-06-09:fea8edd5-5ff7-4a78-a72e-618c341573d8Ocracoke Islander2008-06-09T16:11:31Z2008-06-09T13:34:00Z
Above is an interesting satellite image that shows smoke from the wildfire that has been burning for over a week in Hyde, Tyrrell and Washington counties. The fire is believed to have been started by lightning. Approximately 32,556 acres have burned so far. Most of this land is part of the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. Amazingly, so far, no injuries have been reported and no buildings have been destroyed. However, there is a contingency plan to evacuate about 150 homes in the towns of Newland and Cross Landing should conditions merit. There are no immediate plans to launch the evacuation. When the fire first started you could smell it here on the island for a couple of days. The smell was so strong it actually left a bad taste in your mouth. For the past few days I haven't smelled anything. I have heard reports that, depending on the wind direction, the smell has been detected as far north as Richmond, Virginia and on the Outer Banks north of Ocracoke.
And now for the real reason for today's blog. As the island fills with people the traffic gets heavier. There are more cars, bikes and pedestrians on, and next to, the road. It is incredible to me that there are no more accidents here that there are. Many, many people do not follow the rules of the road and do not take the time to consider other people. When you go on vacation it is easy to forget that there still every day things that need to be considered. I see crowds of people walking and on bikes that take up half, or more, of the road. I see cars speeding along through the village or cruising at walking speed, neither of which is safe. When you are traveling the roads please be considerate, be careful and follow the rules of the road.
Cars
One of the most dangerous (not to mention ILLEGAL) things I see a lot of is cars passing on the right. Recently, my daughter and I witnessed a small sports car run off the road on the right, through a busy parking lot, to speed around another car that was doing the speed limit. The sports car kicked up a cloud of dust and proceeded to speed through the village (as much as he could anyway-thank goodness for other vehicles that blocked his way) to the Cedar Island/Swan Quarter ferry dock. The driver then drove the wrong way into the loading lanes, did a U-turn, pulled up in the line and stopped to make a call on his cell phone. At first I thought he was trying to catch a ferry (which is NO EXCUSE) but there were no ferries at the dock and, luckily, no other cars in the line. I see many vehicles with impatient drivers run off the road and pass on the right. Add that to the speeding vehicles and you have an accident waiting to happen. Of course, the drivers who are doing 10 miles an hour in a 20 or 25 mile an hour zone are dangerous as well. I understand that there is a lot to see but please be considerate of others. Park the car and walk. Or rent a bike. You can get around easier and see more at your own pace without impeding the progress of others.
The speed limit in the village is 25 MPH on the main highway and 20 MPH on the side roads. Remember...when you are here...YOU ARE SOUTH OF THE STRESS LINE! Take advantage of that. When you drive to fast you endanger yourself and others. When you drive too slow you may be delaying someone's arrival at work or a ferry.
Bikes
When riding bikes, here or anywhere, ride on the right side of the road in the same direction as the cars. If you are riding bikes in a group please ride single file. If you are riding bikes in a group please do not split up with some on one side of the road and some on the other. This makes it difficult and dangerous for cars to pass. If you are riding bikes please stay close to the side of the road. If you have to stop for some reason other than reaching your destination be sure to remove your bike and yourself completely from the road. At night, wear light colors or, better yet, carry a light. As for helmets, they are recommended for everyone, but those age 16 or younger are required to wear them by law.
Walking/Running
Many people enjoy walking (or running or jogging) around the island and that is great! It is green! It is healthy! But there are also rules you must follow when walking. Walk close to the edge of the road, if not alongside it. Walk facing traffic. Same as with the bikes...when you are in a group and traffic is coming...walk single file and don't spread out onto both sides of the road. At night wear light colors or carry a light.
There are very few street lights here, especially on the side roads. It can get very dark at night! The roads here are narrow and well traveled. I don't mean to post this information to remind anyone that there are rules on vacation as well as in every day life. I don't want to bring anybody down. I post this to remind everyone that even on vacation you should take safety precautions and be considerate of others. We want you to return from your vacation alive and well and rested and refreshed. The majority of the people here in the summer time are on vacation but there are also those of us who work here to make your vacation enjoyable. Be kind to your waitresses, waiters, hosts and hostesses...your cleaners and shop keepers...your vacation specialists, your maintenance persons...your AC repairmen and your fellow vacationers!
This year's festival is dedicated to Mr. Roy Parsons who passed away September 1, 2007. Roy was an entertainer (musician, storyteller, friend to all). There are many performances and booths scheduled this year...too many to list here but I will list some of the highlights.
The festival kicks off Friday, June 8, beginning at 6 PM at the Ocracoke Community Center with a "Meet The Performer" potluck (please bring your favorite dish to share). Following dinner is the Ocrafolk Festival Live Auction at 7:30. After the auction there will be a performance by a new Ocracoke group, Baby Dee and Free Moustache.
Enjoy the performances and peruse the exhibits on Saturday beginning at 9 AM. The rain location for Saturday's events will be the Ocracoke School gym for some events and Deepwater Theater for others. Info can be found at the Ocrafolk Information Booth. A Silent Auction is being held all day next to the Information Booth. Saturday evening at 8 PM the Traditional Ocracoke Squaredance will be held in the Ocracoke School gym. (Easy to learn and open to all!) There will also be performances Saturday evening at Deepwater Theater and the Ocracoke Community Center.
Sunday morning kicks off with a Gospel Sing at 9:30 AM at the Live Oak Stage on School Road. After church services there will be more performances. The rain location for Sunday will be the Ocracoke Community Center because the Ocracoke School Class of 2008 will be graduating in the school gym on Sunday evening. Congratulations, Seniors!!!!
You can learn more about the Ocrafolk Festival and the Ocrafolk School here.
I am sorry to say that I have to work pretty much all weekend and will most likely not be able to attend the festival this year. I am hoping that if any of my co-workers are able to go they will take lots of photos for me to post. The photos posted below are from past festivals and were "borrowed" from the Ocrafolk Festival website. Some were taken by Ann Ehringhaus and some were taken by Mary Haggerty (Ocracoke Photo). I have used them without permission but hope that I will not be prosecuted as I am doing a little free advertising for the festival and 2 talented photographers.
Come on out and enjoy the 2008 Ocrafolk Festival! You will be glad you came!
]]>Busy Weekendtag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-05-26:e0e4ac3d-d5be-428b-ba56-08fa7cb9480eOcracoke Islander2008-05-26T12:26:51Z2008-05-26T11:56:00Z The Third Annual Ocracoke Firemen's Ball was held on Saturday and from what I heard and saw it was a whopping success. The BBQ dinner was delicious and they sold out within a couple of hours. Many of the auction items sold at well above estimated value. The Community Center was packed for the dance and everyone had a great time.
The Ocracoke School PTA Spring Fling was also a success. The kids had a really good time. I have heard a lot of comments on the slide. I wish I had some pictures of either event but I had to work all day...from 9am to 9pm. Both jobs were very busy.
Our tireless housekeeping staff worked very hard this weekend cleaning houses but that wasn't enough for them. When they were done with the rental houses they decided to clean the windows in the apartment they stay in. They are very thorough...even climbing onto the roof to do the outside of the windows. Brave if you ask me.
The front porch of the office I work in is covered with Carolina Jasmine. The arch at the beginning of the walkway is also covered with it. Most of the year it is simply a green, leafy vine that covers the arch and the porch rails and looks nice. But for about a month each year, usually in May, the Jasmine is in bloom. Not only is it beautiful but the smell is absolutely fantastic! It makes the walk into the office very pleasant. When you walk through the arch the smell envelopes you and holds you until you get in the door. It is a soothing aroma and it always makes me smile.
Carolina Jasmine does very well on Ocracoke. There are many beautiful plants and flowers that do well here. Oleander, lantana, verbena, Joe-bells, rosemary, clematis, ruellia and many more. I love to garden and am always checking out homes and businesses for new and creative ideas. When you visit Ocracoke try to enjoy the beauty of nature and ignore the crowds. The beaches aren't the only natural attraction on Ocracoke.
Clematis
Rosemary
Oleander]]>Ocracoke School Prom 2008tag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-05-18:ec79d169-5a00-4bae-b70e-923cb9e3d363Ocracoke Islander2008-05-20T11:29:44Z2008-05-18T14:17:00Z The Limousine
Visitors are always asking if we have a school on the island. Yes, we do. Located on School Road (ha, ha), Ocracoke School has an attendance of 127, grades Pre-K through 12. The graduating class this year consists of 5 students. That is about average for our school. Ocracoke School is unique in many ways and is repeatedly recognized as a "School of Excellence".
The classes are fairly small and that has positive and negative repercussions. Most schools have Homecoming and Prom. In most other schools the Homecoming Court is voted for and the Prom is for Juniors and Seniors only. At Ocracoke School the entire high school participates in both events. Homecoming Princess, Prince, King and Queen are voted on by the entire school. The Prom King and Queen are voted for the by the high school students. The graduating class of 2008 is made up of 3 boys and 2 girls. One of the senior girls was voted Homecoming Queen. When she was crowned she immediately broke her tiara in half and presented half to the other senior girl. The other senior girl was crowned Prom Queen and she returned the favor. These girls are very good friends and have been going to school and hanging out together for many years. I thought these were such sweet gestures that I had to mention them. Where else would that happen?
On to the Prom. The Ocracoke School Prom is not like other school proms. There isn't a big dance. There is usually a dinner at one of the local restaurants and maybe some other event planned for afterward. There just aren't enough kids for a big dance like other places. Most of the kids don't even take dates unless they are already boyfriend and girlfriend. Homecoming and Prom are major photo opportunities for the moms. These are 2 times a year that we can get our teenagers dressed up and they pretty much have to allow us to take as many pictures as we can before the event starts.
This year the high school had dinner at the Cafe Atlantic. They had the entire top floor to themselves. The teachers/chaperones sat at a table downstairs. This was a rare year where most of the high school had "paired up" so most had dates. Several students got the idea to pile most of the guys into the back of a pick up truck and ride together to pick up the girls. I cannot say how many people were in the truck when they arrived but there were a lot. I had to comment to some other mothers about how the kids were all coming in one vehicle but all the mothers drove their own vehicles to the restaurant just to take pictures. Once they made it safely to the Cafe Atlantic there was a photo taking frenzy in the parking lot to rival the paparazzi at any major movie premier. The kids all took it in stride and let us have at it. When we finally stopped clicking the party moved inside where the tables were beautifully decorated and the atmosphere was festive. We were allowed to go upstairs and take a few more photos then we had to leave. (Guess who was the last Mom out? Hello!)
Both my son (sophomore) and my daughter (junior) attended the prom and they said the dinner was nice and they had a great time. There was no school related event planned for after the dinner so the kids went to one of the senior's house and hung out. Then they went to Springer's Point for a while. So far I haven't heard any bad stories. I've only heard that they had a good time. Enjoy the photos.
Housekeeping Field Supervisor's daughter Housekeeping Field Supervisor's My beautiful daughter. and my son. other daughter who also works at Beach Outfitters.
Maintenance Supervisor's One of our Vacation Specialist's son My daughter's friend and a son. and Housekeeping Supervisor's former Vacation Specialist's son. daughter. ]]>Ocracoke Restaurants: Summer Hours & Contact Infotag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-05-08:5a597b69-c882-454f-8c3e-478ee485a0a2Ocracoke Islander2008-05-08T13:08:24Z2008-05-08T10:02:00Z
Jason's Restaurant, located at 1110 Highway 12, will be open Monday through Saturday 11:30 AM till 10 PM. Closed on Sundays. Menu includes pizza, pasta, subs and seafood. Dine inside or on the screened porch. Eat in or take out. Phone: 252-928-3434
Mango Loco's, located at 1050 Highway 12, will be open Tuesday through Saturday 5 PM till 9 PM. Closed on Mondays. Wednesday night is "Open Mike Night". Thursday night is "Karaoke Night". There will be live music most Fridays and Saturdays. Mango Loco's features Mexican/Carribean cuisine and cocktails. Eat in or take out. Phone: 252-928-2874
The Flying Melon Cafe, located at 804 Highway 12, will be open for brunch Tuesday through Sunday 9 AM till 2 PM. Open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday 5 PM till 9 PM. Flying Melon features southern regional cuisine and the owners' favorites from around the world. Eat in or take out. Phone: 252-928-2533
SmacNally's, located at 180 Highway 12 across from the Anchorage Inn, will be open 11 AM till 9 PM. Willis Gupton will be playing on Fridays and Saturdays. SmacNally's menu includes burgers and seafood. Outside,waterfront dining at the bar and tables with umbrellas. Eat in or take out. Phone: 252-928-9999
The Jolly Roger, located at 410 Highway 12, will be open daily 11 AM till 9 PM. The Jolly Roger menu includes burgers, seafood and Mexican food. There will be live music at least once a week, maybe more. Eat in or take out. Phone: 252-928-3703
Creekside Cafe, located at 621 Highway 12, will be open daily 11 AM till 10 PM. There will be live music on Fridays and Saturdays and maybe more often. Outside dining. Menu includes burgers, salads and seafood. Eat in or take out. Phone: 252-928-3606
The Ocracoke Pizza Company opening has been delayed. As soon as they are open I will post the hours and contact info. Love the new sign!
Thai Moon, located in Spencer's Market on the corner of Highway 12 and School Road, will be open daily from 11 AM till 9 PM. Thai Moon features authentic Thai food and is take out only. Phone: 252-928-5100
The Back Porch Restaurant, located at 110 Back Road across from Blackbeard's Lodge, will be open daily from 5 PM till 9:30 PM. The menu includes seafood, steaks, chicken and duck. The Back Porch also has a wine bar and nightly specials. Dine inside with air conditioning or out on the large screened porch. Phone: 252-928-6501
Don't forget about the Back Porch Lunchbox located on the corner of Highway 12 and Back Road in front of the Pony Island Motel. Serving sandwiches and wraps, drinks and salads. Open 7 days a week from 11 AM till 5 PM. Phone: 252-928-3651
The Pony Island Restaurant, located at 51 Ocean View Road behind the Pony Island Motel, will be serving breakfast from 7 AM till 11 AM, lunch from 11 AM till 2 PM and dinner from 5 PM till 9 PM. They will be closed Monday nights. Menu includes omelettes, Pony Potatoes, burgers, sandwiches, seafood and more. Eat in or take out. Phone: 252-928-5701
Fig Tree Deli and Sweet Tooth, located at 1015 Highway 12, will be open Monday through Saturday 8 AM till 9 PM and Sunday 8AM till 4 PM. Fig Tree Deli menu includes, breakfast sandwiches, salads and lunch sandwiches. Sweet Tooth has many types of specialty candies, fudge and ice cream. Outside dining or take out. Phone: 252-928-3481
Captain Ben's Restaurant, located at 875 Highway 12, will be serving lunch from 11:30 AM till 4 PM and dinner 4 PM till 9 PM. Captain Ben's welcomes wedding rehearsal dinners, large groups and busses. Menu includes prime rib, seafood, sandwiches and more. Captain Ben's hopes to have occasionally live music this summer. Phone: 252-928-4741
The Cafe Atlantic, located at 1129 Highway 12, will be open for dinner from 5 PM till 9 PM every day except Tuesday. Menu includes seafood, beef fillet, pasta and Ruth's famous homemade desserts. Eat in or take out. Phone: 252-928-4261
Howard's Pub is located at 1175 Highway 12. Howard's Pub is open daily from 11 AM till Midnight. The menu includes burgers, pizza, seafood and much more. Howard's has an extensive beer menu and live music most weekends and some weekdays (no cover charge). Eat in or take out. You can see the event calendar, food menu and beer list on their website. Phone: 252-928-4441 http://www.howardspub.com
The Ocracoke Coffee Shop and Island Smoothie, located at 226 Back Road, will be open Monday through Saturday 7 AM till 7 PM and Sunday 7 AM till 5 PM. The Coffee Shop offers inside and outside seating with games and free WiFi. Menu includes a variety of coffees, tea, espresso drinks, bagels, real fruit smoothies and other fresh baked goods and pastries. Java on site or to go. Phone: 252-928-7473
I hope this is helpful to someone or to many. Restaurant owners, if you see any mistakes please let me know so I can make corrections. Here's to a great summer!
]]>More Elizabeth II Picstag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-05-07:efb02d4e-dc6a-44ff-b53c-99d014a92702Ocracoke Islander2008-05-07T15:02:41Z2008-05-07T14:52:00ZThank you, Friend! I will be posting a blog within the next couple of days with summer hours and contact info for Ocracoke Island Restaurants.
A friend called this morning to tell me that the Elizabeth II was docked at the Jolly Roger on Silver Lake. Since I couldn't get out of the office she offered to take a couple of pictures for me for the blog. Although this morning the weather wasn't really conducive for picture taking she came and got the camera and got the pictures. This morning was cloudy, dark and stormy but the pictures came out pretty good. The bad news is that I wasn't able to use them for this blog. Near the end of the storm this morning lightning struck somewhere near the building I work in and knocked out our phones and knocked us off the computer network. Therefore I was unable to retrieve the pictures to use.
When the rain cleared and the clouds had mostly departed I went to see if the Elizabeth II was still around so I could take some pictures myself. I almost missed it. It was on the way out of Silver Lake when I got there. I got a couple of shots but they weren't very good. Then I went around to another location so I could try to get a shot when they left the harbor. I was able to get the one above. It isn't great because I had to use the zoom lens but it is okay. I was really hoping I could catch them with the sails up but I didn't.
The Elizabeth II is a 69 foot, square-rigged sailing ship built to represent one of the ships used to transport Sir Walter Raleigh's colonists to the new world. Most of the year it is located across from the Manteo waterfront at the Roanoke Island Festival Park. During the spring and fall volunteer crews sail the ship to other ports along the Atlantic coast. The ship is open year round and admission is required for guided tours and the summer living history program. You can find out more by calling the Roanoke Island Festival Park at 252-475-1506 or 252-475-1500.
It is really cool to see an impressive vessel such as the Elizabeth II. It's like a piece of history sailing the seas (even if it is a replica). Imagine the wild, untamed land the colonists came upon at Roanoke Island when they arrived to start a new life. It must have been so beautiful and so scary and so wonderful all at the same time. My friends who grew up on Ocracoke describe a different place, in many ways, than what Ocracoke is today. I am just glad that the evolution of Ocracoke still hasn't progressed too far. There are still no fast food chains, movie theaters, mini golf, amusement parks, WalMarts...and that is just fine with me!]]>Beach Fishing & The Ice Machinetag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-04-30:f3941134-6391-4e8b-8605-24e965174afdOcracoke Islander2008-04-30T15:53:40Z2008-04-30T15:01:00Z
What a beautiful day on Ocracoke!! The picture above shows what the beach looks like today. The sun is shining, the temperature is in the 60's and it is just a little breezy but not windy. A great beach day!!
For the past few days beach fishermen have been catching a lot of decent sized bluefish. I saw a picture on the Tradewinds website (www.fishtradewinds.com) of a lady holding the head of a flounder. The rest of the flounder had been bitten off by a bluefish. Fresh out of the water bluefish are delicious to eat but watch out for those razor sharp teeth.
Today is registration day for the 25th Annual Ocracoke Island Surf Fishing Tournament. Approximately 65 teams (give or take 1 or 2) will be fishing on the beach for the next 2 days. They will be fishing for points in various categories. The team with the most points wins the tournament but there are other categories where prizes will be awarded...Top Female Team, Most Fish, Largest Fish and more. Prizes include trophies donated by different Outer Banks businesses and tackle donated by various companies supporting the tournament.
The tournament participants will be treated to a kick off gathering at Howard's Pub tonight with the Embers. Tomorrow night DJ Buster Nunemaker will be at the Pub. On Friday there will be a pig picking and awards party at the Community Center followed by an After Party with DJ Buster Nunemaker.
There are only 2 days of fishing but it seems like most years bad weather knocks out at least a half or a full day. This year, if the forecast holds true, it looks like they might actually get to fish both full days. Good Luck, Anglers! Have a great time!
One more item of interest...Ocracoke now has a self-serve ice machine located on the corner of Trent Drive and O'Neal Drive. (You can't miss it!) You can get a 20 pound bag or 24 pounds bulk for $2.50. You must have your own container for the bulk ice. You just put your money in, make your selection and out comes your ice. If you have any problems there's a help number you can call. I have been assured by the owner that most problems can be fixed by phone because the machine is computerized. Plus, the owner lives on site. What will they think of next?
Have a great day!]]>The Community Store Will Be Open Soon!tag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-04-24:282d1956-b62e-4c34-bd69-1e3b73f3980aOcracoke Islander2008-04-27T10:56:48Z2008-04-24T15:41:00Z
If you have driven through the village on the main road, Highway 12, then you have probably seen the Community Square nestled between the Bluff Shoal Motel and the Down Creek Condos and Art Gallery. Among the shops in the Community Square is the Community Store. The Community Store has operated for many years as a grocery store but has been closed for the last two years. Since it has been closed many people ask if and when it will re-open. We finally have an answer to that question.
There have been a few attempts to re-open the store but Susan and James Paul are finally doing it. The scheduled opening date is Thursday, May 1 at 6 am. Store hours will be 6 am to 9 pm, 7 days a week. Hours are subject to change with the seasons.
Susan is a former vacation specialist and blog writer for Ocracoke Island Realty. She still does property sales for the realty. Her husband, James, is a contractor and has built some beautiful houses on the island. I was lucky enough to get an inside look at the store when I went to interview Susan for this blog.
The first thing that I noticed was how much room there is in the building. I used to shop there for years before it closed so it wasn't my first visit but I never realized how big it was. Susan and James have rearranged and built new shelves and displays to blend with the ones that were already there. There is plenty of room for the goods and plenty of room to move around.
Their goal was to blend the old with the new. There is an old fashioned feel when you walk in and see the cheese cutting wheel, the old woodstove, the candy jars and the decor. There are also modern touches. There will be Starbucks brand Seattle's Best coffee, cappucino and fountain drinks. The store will stock most of the common staples (including fresh produce) along with specialty items such as Mexican food ingredients, organic foods and natural foods. There will also be toys, board games and Community Store souveniers. For the bargain hunter there will be weekly specials-Monday through Friday- for different items each week. The specials will be posted in the store.
A new service the Community Store will offer is grocery delivery. You will be able to place an order online or by phone or fax and have your groceries delivered. How handy is that? The website is still a work in progress but hopefully you will soon be able to visit www.ocracokescommunitystore.com and get an inside view of the new, old Community Store. Or better yet...stop by and say hello. Judging from the number of people who came up on the porch, jiggled the doorknobs and peered in the windows while we were doing the interview you will have plenty of company.
Good luck to you, Susan and James! We are happy that the Community Store doors will soon be open again with a fresh new look!]]>A Greener Ocracoketag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-04-23:92f0f006-10bd-47cc-a50a-e06cbcf5de06Ocracoke Islander2008-04-23T15:33:04Z2008-04-23T14:58:00Z Rene Flores and Jack Whitehead show off the new, blue recycle bins.
Ocracoke Island Realty maintenance supervisor, Jack Whitehead, has been working very hard to make Ocracoke Island greener! For the past several months he has done loads of research, gone to seminars and talked to many people to get as much information as possible to start a recycling program.
Ocracoke Island Realty is offering this service to our homeowners as an "opt-out" program. Most of them are participating and are glad to do so. Other homeowners and businesses on the island will be participating as well.
The recycling program is part of an ongoing effort to lighten the trash load on Ocracoke. Many residents and businesses were not in agreement with the Pay As You Throw program that we feared would be implemented this year. Fortunately that did not happen this year but if we want to avoid it in the future we need to offer pro-active solutions to deem it unnecessary. Recycling will be a big step in the right direction. Plus, it's the right thing to do.
Many of our visitors are used to recycling where they live and work so it should come naturally for them. There will be information posted in each house pertaining to what is recyclable (plastics, glass, metal, paper and cardboard) and there will be a blue recycle bin at each house to dispose of the items. The bins will be emptied on turnover days (Saturday and Sunday). The service will begin in May.
So...if you visit Ocracoke Island in the future....please use these blue bins to dispose of your recyclable items. If you can't find a blue bin you can deposit your recyclables in the large bins next to the sheriff's office on Highway 12.
HOORAY for a greener Ocracoke!!]]>Update On Beach Drivingtag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-04-14:daf17d33-4cdf-4d2d-a949-b8a69c170e91Ocracoke Islander2008-04-20T13:32:49Z2008-04-14T14:09:00Z
US District Court Judge Terrence Boyle has called for a closed meeting next week in his office in Elizabeth City to review the case of the lawsuit over beach driving on the Outer Banks. Although an agreement has been reached by the parties involved in the lawsuit the judge still has to approve the settlement. He has several questions about the terms of the settlement and whether it is fair to all parties.
After two weeks of negotiations the agreement was completed after Dare and Hyde counties and the Cape Hatteras Access Preservation Alliance voted to approve it.
A few of the highlights of the 23 page agreement are as follows:
* Night driving will be restricted from May 1 to November 15 at potential turtle nesting areas. It may be allowed by permit only between September 16 and November 15. The buffer zone will be significantly increased for unfledged piping plovers.
* Establishment of pre-nesting areas at the six locations that had been slated for closure (Bodie Island Split, Cape Point, South Beach, Hatteras Split and the north and south points of Ocracoke) and setting up varying buffers for breeding and nesting and for unfledged chicks.
* Creation of an "ORV-free zone" on the ocean backshore from March 15 to November 30. There is a requirement to issue public notices of proposed pre-nesting-related closures and reports about protected species activities. It requires automatic expansions of buffers and pre-nesting areas by 164 feet with the first violation, by an additional 328 feet with a second violation and by an additional 1640 feet or more with a third violation. (A violation would be considered a deliberate act that disturbs or harasses wildlife.)
*A final ORV management plan must be completed by the Park Service by December 31, 2010.
* A 24-hour telephone line must be set up so that people can report illegal activities and unsafe conditions.
* The Park Service is obligated to pay reasonable attorney fees for the environmental groups' lawyers.
To me it sounds like there has been some compromise. The beach areas in question will not be closed but there will be certain limitations set. It is only fair that if the wildlife can share the beach with us then we can certainly share with the beach with wildlife. I believe that there is room for all, just like in any natural setting. I also believe that people should be educated as to proper beach behavior, whether they are driving onto the beach, walking onto the beach or arriving by boat and just like any situation there are certain rules of etiquette.
* First and foremost you should always be considerate of those around you! Human and non-human.
* Do not attempt to drive onto the beach if your vehicle is not a four wheel drive.
* Drive at an even pace.
* Do not litter. Clean up behind yourself.
* Mind the speed limit. The standard speed limit for beach driving is 25 mph.
* Park above the high tide line.
* Do not drive between parked vehicles and the shoreline. This is very dangerous and very inconsiderate.
If you can think of other rules of etiquette for beach driving please share them.
]]>Introducing The New Owners Of Creekside Restaurant...tag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-04-10:ba6eb642-d97d-4946-9ddf-4f3846c19ec1Ocracoke Islander2008-04-10T15:26:49Z2008-04-10T14:25:00Z Below is an introduction to the new owners of Creekside Restaurant and information about the 2008 season. It was written by Marty Howarth, one of the new owners. Thanks, Marty! Good luck to you both! And good luck to Chris in whatever life leads you to next!
Creekside Cafe on Highway 12 has kicked off the 2008 season with new owners, Hank and Marty Howarth. Creekside will have the same awesome menu prepared by the same great cooks as in the past, but there are a few changes for the 2008 season. Creekside now offers full table service in its open-air courtyard in addition to the popular takeout service. The Howarths also plan regular live music in the courtyard once the season is in full swing. Creekside will be open seven days a week, from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. until later in the spring. Once the summer season approaches, Creekside will be open daily (yes, Sundays too!) from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.
The Howarths have been vacationing on Ocracoke for decades and have owned a home here for six years. It was always their goal to retire from "lawyering" and find a way to enjoy Ocracoke year-round. The Howarths met former owner Chris Styron years ago when their son worked at Creekside as a cook. Son Ben will return to assist with the season and daughter Emily, a familiar waitress at another Island restaurant, will also be on hand to help with the family business in its inaugural season. Island local Chris Styron has graciously agreed to stay on to lend his experience and talents to the transition and long time favorite prep cook Elva O'Neal will also continue to serve up her many great Ocracoke recipes. Please stop by when you're hungry, thirsty or just to say hello. ]]>HURRY! Time Is Getting Short!!tag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-04-03:e5ee619d-bb47-4fcc-89d3-ab0dffc65c23Ocracoke Islander2008-04-03T11:48:40Z2008-04-03T11:33:00Z The beaches in jeopardy of being closed are Bodie Island Split, Cape Point, South Beach, Hatteras Split, North Ocracoke and South Ocracoke. Closure of these areas would be devastating to the economy of the Outer Banks.
Senators and Congressmen are now asking for phone calls as well as faxes and e-mails. Please call the numbers below and speak your piece. Help save beach access on the Outer Banks!! Call now while there is still time!! Let them know that you oppose these beach closures!!
Elizabeth Dole 202-224-6342 Richard Burr 202-224-3154 Walter Jones 202-225-3415
Thanks and have a great day!!]]>Arts Weektag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-03-31:dc716d8f-6877-433e-abe7-8ac76c0122eaOcracoke Islander2008-04-01T10:56:51Z2008-03-31T10:16:00Z Ocracoke School's spring break began March 21 and the kids went back to school today. The week before spring break the students and teachers all participated in Arts Week. If you have been to Ocracoke or read anything about Ocracoke then you know that all types of art are popular here. Art is a big part of Ocracoke's culture. Ocracoke School has Arts Week every year. They invite artists to come and share their particular craft. There have been many types of art shared with the students and teachers over the years. At the end of the week there is an assembly. Parents and the community are invited to come meet the artists and see what they have been doing all week. It is always fun to see the outcome of Arts Week.
This year there were 4 different artists teaching 4 different crafts. Claire Senseney, a local artist, taught Raku Clay Pottery. Merle Davis, also a local artist, taught Creative Cooking. Merle's son, Jubal Creech, taught about Recycled Wearable Art. (Jubal was here before to teach drumming which was a big favorite of my son who is a drummer.) Meghan Griffith taught Hip Hula-Hoop.
There were many different clay objects on display in the gym. These kids have incredible imaginations. There were figurines, pots, plates, bowls, pitchers, ashtrays and more. Claire is very good with the kids and they enjoyed her teachings.
The recycled art tables were filled with many interesting items. There were wallets, flowers and more made from different colors of duct tape. Bracelets and necklaces made with Matchbox cars and old washers. And, you guessed it, drums made from recycled materials.
During Merle's presentation on Creative Cooking she told us about the different foods that were prepared with the different age groups. Biscuits, omlettes, potato soup, different types of salsa and much more. Too bad they didn't have samples, only pictures.
The Hip Hula-Hoop seemed to have been enjoyed by all the different age groups. My daughter talked about this all week and showed me her bruises. She said she really had fun and everyone liked Meghan. They all really seemed to be having a great time as each group went up to demonstrate the craft. The hula-hoops were hand-made and decorated. There were different sizes and different looks. Each group seemed to enjoy them in a different way. They hula-hooped while walking, moving backward and forward, turning around and dancing. They also used different parts of their bodies...arms, legs, hips, neck, heads. The middle school boys created a game where each tried to make the other person drop their hula-hoop using only their hula-hoop. The older girls made up a dance that they performed with hula-hoops. Who knew hula-hoops could be used in so many different ways?
Below are some pictures of some of the pottery, recycled art and the high school girls hula-hooping! Hope you enjoy them and have a great day!
]]>Free Week Vacationtag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-03-19:cc5ade3a-bee4-475c-b166-9b022292a427Ocracoke Islander2008-03-19T15:30:50Z2008-03-19T14:30:00Z The lucky winner this year is Ken D. from Graham, NC. Ken has been coming to Ocracoke for many years. I have always remembered him because he is from Graham and I spent many, many years living in Graham (although I never met Ken while there) and the surrounding area. Congratulations, Ken! We hope you enjoy your stay!
Yesterday I noticed that several signs had been posted along the roadside. They are announcing the Ocrafolk Festival Fundraiser. Many people are familiar with the Ocrafolk Festival held in June and the Ocrafolk School which had a very successful first year.
The Ocrafolk Festival Fundraiser will be held at the Community Center on Highway 12 on Saturday, March 22. The doors open at 7:00 pm and the show starts at 7:30. Admission is $15 for adults and $7 for children. If you would like more information about the Ocrafolk Festival you can visit their website at http://www.ocrafolkfestival.org. There is a lot of information about the festival itself but I didn't find anything about the upcoming fundraiser.
This week is Arts Week at Ocracoke School. This is a fun week for the teachers and students when different types of artists teach them different types of arts. At the end of the week the school has an assembly to show the parents and community what they have been doing all week. Tomorrow is the assembly. I will take photos and post a blog when I return to work.
Have a great day!]]>Ocracoke Pizza Companytag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-03-17:1c1560a4-1d29-4186-99fa-9e938ccae7faOcracoke Islander2008-03-18T10:47:20Z2008-03-17T14:58:00Z
If you are on Ocracoke and hungry for pizza but don't feel like going out to get it...you are in luck!! There is a new restaurant opening that will be making pizza for pick up and delivery. The owners of SmacNally's, the fabulous outdoor, waterfront dining spot located at the Anchorage Inn Marina, are opening Ocracoke Pizza Company in the former Dolphin Cove building on Highway 12. They are hoping to be open by the end of March or the first part of April. They have been working hard renovating and converting the building.
Ocracoke Pizza Company will be serving pizza and sodas. Occasionally pizza will be available by the slice. Soda will be available in 2-liters and 6 packs. The owners hope to eventually add subs and pastas to the menu. There will be no on-site dining, only pick up and delivery. They hope to have a couple of arcade games installed soon so you can play while you wait for your pizza. At this time the hours have not been decided but they will be open for lunch and dinner. The plan is to do deliveries in the evening only.
Another great feature Ocracoke Pizza Company will be offering is pick up and delivery of the clambake meal. The clambake consists of a layer of corn, potato and sausage topped with a layer of clams, shrimp and oysters. It comes with slaw, cornbread, seasonings and all the fixins', including plates, forks, napkins, the cook pot, etc.. It is not cooked when you order but their friendly staff will come and set it all up for you and start it. It takes about 20-25 minutes and then be ready to feast. Once you are done, just dispose of the shells, rinse the pot and leave it outside to be picked up. The clambake feeds 2-4 people depending on your appetite. The cost is just under $50.00. Clambake is a traditional meal on the Carolina coast and should not be missed.
And now...a quick Easter note: The annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held at 11 am on Saturday, March 22, at the Ocracoke Methodist Church. All kids 12 and under are welcome! Don't be late, the eggs won't wait!!
]]>Where To Eat & What To Dotag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-03-13:f943662b-8478-401c-a0eb-3784d0b6fc77Ocracoke Islander2008-03-16T09:58:55Z2008-03-13T14:09:00Z
Easter is coming soon and the island is going to be a busy place for a couple of weeks! Some people have spring break the week before Easter and some have it the week after. I have spent part of today checking the local bulletin boards and calling restaurants to find out who will be open and what will be going on.
Several restaurants will be opening during the next couple of weeks:
Cafe Atlantic will be opening for the season on Friday, March 14. They will be serving dinner from 5 pm to 9 pm every day except Tuesday. No Sunday Brunch. 252-928-4861
Jason's Restaurant will be serving lunch 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and dinner 5 pm to 8:30 pm. They will be open every day except Sundays. (NOTE: Jason's will be closed March 24 to April 23. They have been the only restaurant open all winter and we thank them for that.) 252-928-3434
Pony Island Restaurant has already opened for the season. They are open daily and serve breakfast from 7 am to 11 am and lunch 11 am to 2 pm. 252-928-5701
Howard's Pub is opening for the season Thursday, March 13. Their spring hours are 11 am to 10 pm Sunday through Thursday and 11 am to 12 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Don't miss Martin and Friends, a local favorite, on Saturday, March 15 beginning at 8 pm. You can also catch the games of March Madness on the several television sets located in the pub. 252-928-4441
Captain Ben's will be opening for the season on Wednesday, March 19 or Thursday, March 20. (Sorry, I couldn't get a more definitive date). They will be serving lunch 11:30 am to 4 pm and dinner 4 pm to 9 pm. 252-928-4741
Flying Melon will be serving dinner Wednesday through Saturday, 5 pm to 9 pm, beginning March 19. They will be serving brunch Friday through Sunday, 9 am to 2 pm. 252-928-2533
Sweet Tooth is planning to be open Wednesday, March 19 through Sunday, March 30 from 10 am to 4 pm. This will be the sweet shop only. They will be serving ice cream, a wide assortment of candies and homemade fudge. The Fig Tree will not be open during this time. Both the Fig Tree and Sweet Tooth will reopen for the season in mid April. 252-928-3481
Many people are wondering when the Ocracoke Coffee Company will be opening. I have been trying to reach the owners to find out but so far I haven't been able to get them. The best information I have is that they will be open "sometime around Easter weekend".
Mango Loco will be open Easter weekend for entertainment only. I am checking into what bands, what days and what times. I will post this as soon as I find out.
Most of the gift shops will be open by Easter weekend so there will be plenty of shopping options.
Variety Store hours are 8 am to 8 pm, 7 days a week.
There will be an Easter play, "Victory", at the Assembly of God Church on Lighthouse Road on Saturday, March 23 at 6:30 pm. All are welcome.
I am also trying to find out when and where the annual Easter egg hunt is being held and will post that also as soon as I find out. I will also keep an eye on the bulletin boards for more "things to do" during spring break. Of course, there are always miles and miles of beautiful beaches to explore, the village to explore, the lighthouse, the Preservation Society museum and much more.
See you soon!
]]>Beach Closure Contact Informationtag:ocracokeblog.com,2008-03-09:60605154-47a1-4003-8553-ca5678027852Ocracoke Islander2008-03-09T14:04:34Z2008-03-09T13:24:00Z These areas include the beaches at Bodie Island Split, Cape Point, South Beach, Hatteras Split, North Ocracoke and South Ocracoke.
What many of you may not know is who to contact and how to contact them to voice your opinion on this action. It is very important that as many voices as possible be heard in order to stop the beach closures from taking place.
I have read some great opinions at www.islandfreepress.org and at www.fishtradewinds.com (message board). There are also some informative articles on the Island Free Press site. Both sites have even more links to even more information. I truly hope that all of these people have also written to their senators and congressmen.
Closure of these beach areas would be devastating in many ways to visitors, residents and local businesses.
The ruling on this matter is set to take place on April 3, 2008. Please hurry and contact your senators and congressmen and let your voice be heard.
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