To kick it off, of course we go to the water for spectacular surf photography. There is a phenomenon that occurs when there is good surf: the best surfers are out in the lineup and that in turn attracts some of the top photographers to the beach. They often get into the water for the jaw-dropping shots. The surf stills from these four local photographers are incredible.
Our art and food features will enliven your summer, with the delightful fine art and illustrations of Wilmington’s Mark Weber and mouthwatering grilled pineapple. Personally, my weekend has me firing up the grill for one (or both) of these recipes.
Our Home of Distinction is actually two. No matter how sophisticated Wrightsville Beach becomes, its small beach town quaintness will never fade. That’s the story behind these recently renovated homes along the strand. While their updates reflect today’s trends, they retain the nostalgic, beach cottage feel of Wrightsville Beach past. The before and after photos of these transformations show how to mingle old with new.
Moving to living history, we have the story of the legendary Orange Street tennis court built by physician Dr. Hubert Eaton at his home in Wilmington. The 5-acre site — that once included an Olympic-sized swimming pool — with the clay court is in many ways a time capsule. The lightly restored home is very much as it originally was, except for the kitchen.
The tennis court is restored to action. Native son and tennis great Lenny Simpson is teaching youth through his One Love Tennis nonprofit from the same site where he was taught to play almost 70 years ago. It has also become home for Lenny and his wife, JoAnn, and an education center. I’ve known this couple for many years, worked with them as a volunteer, and placed an at-risk child in the program. They are the real deal. It’s an honor to share their updated story with our readers.
There’s also a field trip to the North Carolina Zoo — who knew our state had such a great zoo? Plan an overnighter to also take in the Seagrove Pottery and Pottstown a few minutes away.
Enjoy what many consider the best time of the year.
Blessings!
—Pat Bradford, Senior Editor/Publisher