SWEET TALE of true love from World War I, that of
Wilbur Jones Jr.’s parents graces this issue. Jones’
name has become synonymous with WWII history
in New Hanover County. Join us as he shares his
parents’ untold story.
Then, step forward into a Second World War story in which Jones
played another part, written by students from Cape Fear Academy
about the German prisoners incarcerated in Wilmington in POW
camps. This story, born from the curiosity of one student — and the
important documentary video they made — shows a side of the war
played out in the Port City. The Germans arrived as enemies, but
some left the city as friends.
Switching gears, we have two stories about helping our ecosystem
recover. First, reefs — a restoration effort for offshore and inshore fish
— and, from Mary Margaret McEachern, the state of the local oyster
and efforts to re-populate this cherished food source.
I am still creating comfort meals that strengthen on cold nights,
and know, like me, you will enjoy the variety of seafood (and corn)
chowder options found in this month’s Savor.
This year’s look back at the real estate market was, and is,
poignant. Emotions resurfaced while delving into the details of
Hurricane Florence and the effects on each community, that, frankly,
I didn’t want to revisit. But no look back at the real estate market or
even business in 2018 can ignore or escape the hurricane that made
landfall last year. We are forever marked.
I was a Realtor in 1996 when Hurricane Fran wrecked the area, so
I knew very well what Realtors faced before and after the storm and
my heart went out to them.
Here is their story of 2018, plus plenty of numbers to give you a
three-county ringside seat showcasing the encouraging $1.868 billion
year-end finale of our all-important real estate-driven economy. I am
blessed to know these top brokers and find it remarkable how resilient
they all are.
I had the privilege of being inside the two, top-selling houses in the county as well as on Wrightsville, and each is memorable. It is
exciting to share them with readers and to know their new owners will cherish these significant homes.
As the rest of us continue our property cleanup, repairs, whatever is still left to do, I know we are a changed people. As we roll into the
month, set aside time to remember our loved ones with flowers, chocolates and cards, my wish is that we widen that circle to the new
friends we came to know during this last year when the electricity went out and we all learned further how to be the Light.
Happy Day, you are a blessing to me.
Pat’s hair by Frank Potter, Bangz Hair Salon. Hair and makeup styled by Caty Perakis, Bangz.
www.wrightsvillebeachmagazine.com
upfront
It is the sweetheart month.
Tell me, how did we get here so fast?
Editor/Publisher
A
Pat on the Airlie side of Bradley Creek with bags of oyster shells
that will be used to build reefs in the future.
ALLISON POTTER
13
WBM