June 2023
IN THIS ISSUE: Welcome / Monthly Review / Contributions / News & Notices / Coming Events / Feature Spotlight / Photo Review
Welcome to June
WELCOME to the JUNE 2023 edition of THE CURRENT. Congratulations! you have arrived. Welcome to "the Middle." You see, the month of June doesn't really kick off the summer like May does, nor does it come with crazy fireworks like July. It isn't known for the oppressive heat of August or the "last hurrahs" of September. But that's OK! If there's one thing June is good for, it's being a reliable time of solid summer fun. In a way, it's like a slow cooker meal; there's not a lot of sizzle and flame, but it always leaves you satisfied.
It's June's level of simplistic, slow-cooker style that often goes underappreciated. In a day and age where every month seems to a bring a new and even more dramatic crisis, it's important to remember that summer is right here, right now. Just waiting for you to slow down and enjoy it. Because before you know it, you'll wake up one morning and the air will be just a little cooler, the leaves will be a little less green, the kids will be talking about bookbags instead of beach bags ... and yet another summer will have slipped into the memory books.
There's a whole summer of fun, fireworks, and highlights ahead, but you'll miss it all if you forget to slow down and enjoy the moments in between. That is what the month of June is all about. So take your summer slow cooker, turn it down real low, and let it simmer while you head out to take a dip in the JUNE edition of THE CURRENT.
MONTHLY REVIEW
REMINDER: Information on all news items can be found on the Town Website at: www.OakIslandNC.gov/NEWS.
Council Meeting Recap
The Town Council's regular meeting on Tuesady, May 9, 2023 began with two PUBLIC HEARINGS; however the first one, for a Special Use Permit for a mini-golf, was removed. the second public hearing, on a Proposed Text Amendment to Section 8.10 of the Unified Development Ordinance, was continued to the June 20, 2023 meeting.
PRESENTATIONS & PROCLAMATION: Town Manager David Kelly, and finance Director David Hatten both gave a Presentation of the Proposed FY 2023-2024 Budget. Mayor Elizabeth White read a Proclamation for Older Americans Month. Bill Millard provided a report from the Recreation Advisory Board on the Nature Trail behind the Recreation Center. Ed Lovett of the Davis Canal Marsh Cleaners, gave a presentation that is summarized in the Meeting Minutes.
PUBLIC COMMENT: Have been summarized in the Meeting Minutes; and can be viewed by CLICKING HERE.
COUNCIL REPORTS (MAYOR AND COUNCIL): Have been summarized in the Meeting Minutes; and can be viewed by CLICKING HERE.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS: Council unanimously appointed Loman Scott to the ABC Board, for the unexpired term ending December 2024.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS: Department reports are available on the Town's website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/DEPT. Reports will be summarized in the Meeting Minutes, and can be viewed by CLICKING HERE.
OLD BUSINESS: (1) Discussion of Unified Development Ordinance Audit Recommendations: Council consensus was to direct the Planning Board and staff to begin with a review of the Table of Uses. (2) Approval of Amendments to ARTICLE IV. - BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES[4] to Align the Ordinances with the New Policy for Boards Committees: This item was removed from the agenda pending additional review by Council. (3) Consideration of Resolution in Opposition to Certain Proposed Legislative Bills: Council approved the Resolution unanimously. (4) Consideration of Amendment #7 to Contract with W.K. Dickson (stormwater improvements) and the associated Budget Ordinance Amendment: Council approved the amendment unanimously. (5) Consideration of Task Order Amendment for Moffatt & Nichol for Drafting the Town's Beach Management Plan (for the NC Coastal Resources Commission: Council approved the amendment 4-1.
NEW BUSINESS: (1) Consideration of a Contract with the ABC Board for Law Enforcement: Council approved the contract. (2) Consideration of Renewing the Lease of the Town's Building in the Yaupon Beach area to Matthew's Ministry: The lease was renewed. (3) Consideration of Requesting a Charter Amendment to Remove the Recall Provision: This item was removed from the agenda. (4) Consideration of Allowing Gas-powered and Additional Electric Vehicles to be Used on the Beach as Assistance Mobility Devices: Council removed gas-powered vehicles from consideration; staff will provide draft ordinance amendments for the June meeting.
ADJOURN: The meeting was adjourned at 8:38 PM. To view the video, agenda, and minutes for any Town Council meeting, just visit the Meetings Information page of the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/MEETINGS, or click the link below.
New Budget Approved
On Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 6:00 PM the Town Council held a Special Meeting for the purpose of considering the Town's Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget, along with the FY 2023-2024 Pay Classification Scale, and the FY 2023-2024 Fee Schedule.
In a series of unanimous votes, the Annual Budget, Pay Classification Scale, and Fee Schedule for FY 2023-2024 were approved by the Town Council.
Town Council was able to review and provide directives for the 2023-24 Budget, during a series of Budget Workshops held throughout the month of April. For 2023, a total of six (6) public Budget Workshops were held on April 13, April 19, April 21, April 25 and April 28, as well as the public presentation on May 9.
The newly approved FY 2023-24 Budget, along previous years' Budgets and presentation materials are available on the Budget Information page of the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/BUDGET, or by clicking the link below.
Updated Parks Directory & NEW Map
Of all the commonly asked questions from visitors to the Town of Oak Island, a large majority start with the phrase "where can I find the ..." More often than not, that phrase ends with location of one of the Town's many parks, education, or recreation facilities.
This level of inquiry has not gone unnoticed, which is why during the month of May, the Communications Office partnered with the Public Works Department and the Recreation Department to completely revise the Town's online Parks Directory.
The new Parks Directory page of the Town Website features an expanded list of offerings, presented in new expandable tabs which are broken down by category. It includes detailed facility descriptions, photos, and hours. The most notable update however, is the addition of a brand new, fully interactive Parks Directory Map!
Embedded right on the page itself is this custom Google Maps based way finder, with unique icons representing the different kinds of parks and facilities provided by the Town. It makes it so easy to navigate to your favorite spots or find new ones, whether it's Boat Ramps, Fishing Tees, Education Centers, or everyone's favorite, the Oak Island Splashpad!
If you haven't checked out the Parks Directory lately, or it's been a while since you discovered something new in your own Town, the take a few moments to visit the NEW Parks & Facilities page of the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/PARKS or click the link below.
NEW Wildlife Information Page
Speaking of new additions to the Town Website, another recently added page addresses what is possibly the second most commonly asked question: "What is that animal doing there!?!"
Usually this question is followed up with an "AHH!!!" or other similar sounds of surprise. To many longtime residents however, it's not uncommon to see the likes of alligators, deer, foxes, and turtles all in the same day ... and all on the same beach!
While some of these animals can present a scary sight for the uninitiated, for the more adventurous they may look like "part of the tour." To help ease the worries of some, and calm the enthusiasm of others, the Town's Communications Office has created the new Wildlife Information page of the Town Website.
With a diverse ecosystem of wooded forests, swamps, coastal marshes and sandy beaches, there is no shortage of wildlife to be found in the Cape Fear region! In fact, there are hundreds, if not thousands of species of birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, insects and arachnids that call Oak Island home.
While it would be fascinating to learn about all of them, this page is dedicated to some of the more visible wildlife visitors may be surprised to encounter as a temporary visitor or resident.
Most importantly, this page informs visitors that in many cases, the greatest danger is caused by us humans. In several instances throughout this page, it reminds readers that in most cases it is best to observe and admire the animals from afar, and please just let them be!
So if you'd like to learn more about some of the wildlife that also call Oak Island home, or want to help educate friends and visitors to the area, just visit the NEW Wildlife Information page at www.OakIslandNC.gov/WILDLIFE or click the link below.
Cabana Remodel On Schedule
On Friday, May 12, the SE 46th Street Cabana was CLOSED until further notice, to accommodate a complete renovation effort. While the timing of the closure (at the start of the Summer season) wasn't ideal, the immediate contractor availability meant that a newly remodeled Cabana could still be possible for most of the summer. The long-term benefits of a newer, safer facility far outweighed the temporary inconvenience of only having access to porta-potties!
In the nearly a month since construction began, those improvements have become more and more visible with each passing day. The renovations include all new decking on the walkways, access ramps, and the observation deck, as well as a complete refurbishing of the restrooms inside.
The original timeline for the project was anticipated to be around 6 weeks, and as of this publication, it is slightly ahead of schedule!
Current estimates are for a completion time prior to the end of June, just in time for Beach Day and 4th of July festivities. In the meantime, restrooms are still be available in the Middleton Park Complex nearby, along with the portable restrooms which have been installed in the in the parking lot on East Dolphin Drive.
One the remodel is complete, a reopening notice for the Cabana will be posted in the News & Notices page of the Town Website, which you can find at www.OakIslandNC.gov/NEWS or by clicking the link below.
CONTRIBUTIONS
This section features content contributed from various Town Departments, as well as the Town's municipal and non-profit partner organizations. Regular contributing organizations include the Oak Island Fire Department, the Beach Preservation Society, the Friends of Parks Foundation, the Sea Turtle Protection Program, the Friends of the Library, and Oak Island Water Rescue, among others. For more information, please reach out to the contributing organization directly.
Fire Department Safety Brief: Safety on Flooded Roads
(Contributed by Tim Fleckinger) Happy June everyone! 'Tis the season for torrential downpours and for that OKI Fire would just like to remind you of a few safety points as the island is prone to flooding in various areas.
1] First and foremost it is always best to find an alternative route around the flooded area. I'm sure most of everyone has heard the catchy phrase of turn around, don't drown. It only takes a couple of inches to knock over an individual and just a foot or two to move most vehicles on the roadways.
2] Basically the same as number 1. If you can't see the bottom of the puddle TURN AROUND. Although you may be very familiar with the roadway if you can't see the bottom of the water there is no guarantee that the road is still there. We are very lucky here that most streets have several ways to access it.
3] If for whatever reason you do decide to attempt a crossing, which OKI-FD does NOT recommend, slow and steady wins the race. Foot on the gas the whole time keeping your speed under the 10MPH mark. If you must slow your speed just keep your foot on the gas and use the brake to regulate.
4] If you do find yourself stuck in the water, try to get on top of the vehicle or move to higher, solid ground. In the event that you can't get out of the vehicle you'll have to stay in the vehicle until the pressure equals out enough to be able to open a door and again seek higher ground.
5] Finding yourself in a situation where you'll have to swim, do so at angles and working with the current not against it. Pick your target downstream and at an angle then commit to it and once again seek higher ground.
Although flooding and flash flooding are a very real possibility for this area but being trapped in them can be mostly avoidable. ALWAYS side with caution by remembering to turn around. Things happen though in life so when this or any other emergency presents itself to you the most important thing to do is remain calm and keep your wits about you. OKI-FD wishes everyone a fun and safe summer.
Beach Ambassadors: Season Starts
(Contributed by Skip Cox) On Thursday, April 27, the Oak Island Beach Ambassadors began its TENTH year of service as "The Friendly Face of Oak Island" with our annual training session! Regular beach patrols began on Saturday, May 6,
We will operate this season with 27 volunteers, including 21 returning and 6 newcomers. This year, Ambassadors will be wearing well designed shirts to better complement the Police Department's Beach Services Unit. These shirts have replaced the traditional yellow vests that served us well, but after 9 years had more than earned their retirement.
For safety purposes, a key focus this season for Ambassadors will be to monitor the access paths area at our 23 Emergency Vehicle Accesses Locations. We will be helping to inform and educate beachgoers on the need to keep the emergency pathways open and free of obstacles "From Street to Sea!"
As a reminder, Beach Ambassadors will be present along the 9.5 mile strand of public beach area that we serve, several days during the week and most weekends.
Volunteer Beach Ambassadors are trained to educate and inform visitors about Town ordinances related to beach areas, and how their actions can provide a safe environment for visitors and sea turtles alike. The program is organized by the Beach Preservation Society, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, dedicated to education and community engagement to enhance the Oak Island beach experience. For full details on the Beach Ambassadors Program visit the Beach Preservation Society website at www.beachoki.org or click the link below.
Environmental Advisory Committee: A Yaupon Beach “Smart Yard” to Inspire
(Contributed by David Merkle, Smart Yard Volunteer Coordinator) Phil and Sue Dudley visited a whole host of beaches along the Southeast coast, hoping to find the one they might eventually retire to and call home. About 6 years ago, charmed by visiting Southport, they first ventured to Oak Island.
You see, Sue was a beach lover and Phil loved trees and nature. “Coming over that bridge and seeing all those trees with the ocean beach in the background just blew my mind” Phil said. “We’d seen beach after beach all just filled with commonplace and typical beach cottages designed for vacationers, all without any greenery ... and lacking any sense of community. It didn’t take long until they purchased a vacant lot and started planning their dream home at the beach."
They fortunately connected with Rich Bandera, a local architect who was also sympathetic with preserving trees and natural surroundings. He worked hand-in-hand with them and S&W Builders to retain trees as the house plans proceeded. The result was an environmental triumph, and their lovely home and yard (only a block from the beach) was just right for these Georgia dreamers.
But what made it a "Smart Yard?" Retaining numerous trees, especially oak and other hardwood varieties allowed the thirsty trees to prevail and consume a lot of rain water. Leaving natural areas, organic mulching of large areas, and creating beds of flowers and vegetables allowed water to percolate into the soil. Installing a gravel driveway allowed stormwater to drain through the underlying surface soils. Roof gutter and downspout diversion into a French drain. Creating walkways and paths with bio-degradable materials. In short; seeking ways for a more natural setting with simple ways of using rain water in their yard and not allowing it off-site. That’s a Smart Yard.
Want to know if your yard would qualify or want some tips on how to qualify for the Smart Yard designation? Contact the Public Works Department at 910-201-8083 or email ktower@oakislandnc.gov to arrange for an inspector to visit and discuss the Smart Yard program.
GV Barbee Library: Summer Reading Program
(Contributed by Erica Dosher) Join us for a summer of reading and fun with the Brunswick County Library Summer Reading Program! In addition to our reading incentive program for youth (infants-teens), we will be offering in-person events. Summer Reading officially kicked off on June 1 and ends on August 1.
Summer programs in JUNE include:
Tuesday June 13 • 11:00 AM: Sandbank Shadow Factory
Tuesday, June 20 • 11:00 AM: Big Bang Boom (Rock band for kids)
Tuesday, June 27 • 11:00 AM: Dana Hill Magic
Just visit the Summer Reading Program page of the Brunswick County Library website, and click on the "Barbee Events" tab, for the entire summer program schedule.
Registration is required. you can register in person at the library, or by calling 910-278-4283, or simply clicking the link provided below. You will be contacted by your local branch to confirm your registration and receive in-depth information.
MEETINGS, NEWS, & NOTICES
Council, Committee, & Board Meetings
REMINDER: Televised public meetings are broadcast live on OKI-TV (Spectrum Cable channel 8), as well as livestreamed on the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/MEETINGS. For a complete schedule of all upcoming Council, Committee and Board meetings, visit www.OakIslandNC.gov/CALENDAR.
PAR 3 ADVISORY COMMITTEE (non-televised) will hold its regular meeting on Friday, July 7, 2023 at 1:00 PM in the Par 3 Pro Shop, located at 4188 Vanessa Drive.
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD (non-televised) will hold its regular meeting on Monday, July 10, 2023 at 4:00 PM in the Community Center, located at 102 SE 47th Street (beside the Town Hall).
ABC BOARD (non-televised) will hold its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 10:00 AM in the Oak Island ABC Store, located at 5402 E Oak Island Drive.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (non-televised) will hold its regular meeting on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at 8:30 AM in the Police Department Training Room, located on the second floor of the Police Department, adjoining Town Hall at 4621 E Oak Island Drive.
PLANNING BOARD (televised) will hold its regular meeting on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at 10:30 AM in the Council Chambers, located on the second floor of Town Hall at 4601 E Oak Island Drive.
TOWN COUNCIL (televised) will hold its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers, located on the second floor of Town Hall at 4601 E Oak Island Drive. **NOTE: This is a change from the regular meeting schedule, which is usually held on the second Tuesday of the month
CLOSURES & HOLIDAYS
INDEPENDENCE DAY: Administrative Offices for the Town of Oak Island will be CLOSED on Tuesday, July 4, 2023 in observance of Independence Day. Garbage & Recycling Collection will NOT be affected, however collection may take longer due to higher volume. The Disposal Convenience site will NOT be open on July 1.
Police, fire, and other emergency services are not affected during any holiday closure, and are always available by calling 9-1-1. The Oak Island Pier will be open during their seasonal hours. All currently available Parks, Beach & Water Access Locations, and facilities will be open as well. All holiday closure dates can be viewed in the Holiday Calendar on the Town Website at: www.OakIslandNC.gov/HOLIDAY.
REMINDER: Beach Equipment & Unattended Holes
With a new summer season now underway, the first responder agencies for the Town of Oak Island want to remind everyone of some Beach Rules that are critical to public safety.
• ALL Beach Equipment must be removed by the end of the day
• ALL Holes must be filled and leveled prior to leaving
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? In a word, “SAFETY!” An unattended tent or canopy can easily be taken by the wind and cause damage to property, or serious injury to humans and wildlife, such as nesting sea turtles. Even if a canopy has the fabric removed, the bare frame can still be difficult to see at night and create a tripping hazard for humans and wildlife.
Just as dangerous, large holes can collapse or fill in with water, leading to potentially fatal injuries from crushing, suffocation, or drowning.
Both beach equipment and holes can also present a serious COLLISION hazard during nighttime emergency response from the Oak Island Police Department, the Oak Island Fire Department, Oak Island Water Rescue, or other emergency services.
The Town of Oak Island wants all residents and visitors to have a fun and safe summer, but being safe also means being responsible. If holes or equipment are left unattended, then no one is using them for fun anyway; they are simply becoming a hazard to those around them.
Moving forward, FINES will be issued as directed under the Town Ordinances, starting as a civil penalty of $100.00 for the first violation, $200.00 for the second violation, and escalating to a criminal offense after the second violation or at the officer's discretion. Each day that someone is in violation will constitute a new and separate offense.
Please join with the Town of Oak Island to raise awareness of the dangers posed by equipment left overnight and unattended holes on the beach. Working together we can help ensure a fun and safe summer for EVERYONE. For more information on the rules for public beach areas, just visit the Beach Rules page of the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/RULES or click the link below.
Oak Island Beach Day, Once Again Part of NC 4th of July Festival
BEACH DAY Commemorates the July 1, 1999 merger of the towns of Yaupon Beach & Long Beach into what is today known as the Town of Oak Island. It is held each year on July 1.
Marking the 24th Anniversary of Oak Island, Beach Day 2023 has a packed schedule of fun and family-friendly activities, organized by the Oak Island Recreation Department. These events are also held in collaboration with the North Carolina 4th of July Festival, as part of the larger schedule of activities hosted throughout the week to commemorate our Nation's Independence Day.
Beach Day events organized by the Oak Island Recreation Department will begin at 8:00 AM in the Middleton Park Complex with a horseshoe tournament. Inflatable rides, youth activities, and food concessions will be available starting 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Beach game tournament registration will begin at 10:00 AM at the Oak Island Cabana, located near the beach access of SE 46th Street. Beach games include such highlights as corn hole, bocce ball, and volleyball. At 1:00 PM a sandcastle competition will be held.
As the day turns to evening, the fun keeps going with a Beach Day Concert at the Middleton Park Complex Amphitheater, featuring The Carl Newton Review on stage at 6:00 PM, with a shag contest starting at 7:00 PM.
Beach Day wraps up at the Oak Island Pier with live music provided by The Doorsmen from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Afterwards there will be a special 24th Anniversary Fireworks Display, which can be seen for miles along the shoreline.
The North Carolina 4th of July Festival, headquartered in neighboring Southport, NC provides a full updated listing of all Beach Day festivities, along with other events planned throughout the week. While most of the festival events on the 4th will be in Southport, Oak Island will get to see some action through a LIVE pro-wrestling event from the United Pro Wrestling Association (UPWA). The wrestling will take place in the Middleton Park Complex at 3:00 PM, after which will be a skydiving demonstration from "Uncle Sam" himself, as parachutes down on the beach in front of the Cabana at SE 46th Street.
To view the full list festival events, visit www.nc4thofjuly.com. For a complete schedule of Beach Day activities and the post-fireworks traffic plan, visit www.OakIslandNC.gov/BEACHDAY or click the link below.
OKI-PD: Beach Day Traffic
As mentioned in the previous article, one of the most anticipated highlights of Beach Day and the NC 4th of July Festival, will be the Town's special 24th Anniversary Fireworks Display off the Oak Island Pier.
Starting at around 9:00 PM on Saturday, July 1, this display will be seen for miles along our coast. Taking place both on a weekend, and after the paid parking enforcement times have ended for the day, will mean this is sure to be the most-attended event of the year in Oak Island.
This heavy attendance will also mean heavy traffic, and that is something the Oak Island Police Department is already hard at work to plan for. The Department is building off of the experiences from previous years, and working to implement new strategies to ensure an even, steady flow of traffic following the event.
Certain streets and intersections will be blocked off throughout the day, to accommodate the unloading of fireworks. After the fireworks display is over, additional streets will be blocked off to direct traffic in a smooth flow away from the area.
The key highlight of this traffic plan is that SE 58th Street will serve as the “Dividing Line” for travel off the Island:
• Anyone parked WEST of 58th St. should use the Swains Cut Bridge on Middleton Ave.
• Anyone parked EAST of 58th St. should use the Barbee Bridge on Long Beach Road.
PLEASE NOTE: There will be NO EVENT-SPECIFIC PARKING. All public parking spaces (including the Town Resident spaces), will be available on a first come - first serve basis. For a detailed visual on the street closures and traffic patterns, please click on the links below:
CLICK HERE for a Post-Fireworks Traffic Map
CLICK HERE for Fireworks Unloading Street Closures
Above all, the patience and attention of drivers will be critical to ensuring a smooth, steady flow of traffic after the event. Don't get distracted while waiting in traffic, and keep even distances between you and the vehicle you are following.
For more information on the traffic plan, just visit the Beach Day page of the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/BEACHDAY or click the link below.
Police Department Security Checks
Summer is here, and that means many visitors will be traveling to Oak Island. For many year round residents however, it means they will be traveling away from town, to their own vacation destinations. To help better serve the public and offer peace of mind while away, the Oak Island Police Department offers the Security Check Program.
The Security Check Program is a service provided by the Oak Island Police Department, available to residents leaving their home or property for a short duration, such as a vacation or business trip.
This program is designed to provide additional safety and security to a home when the owner is out of town, by having an officer check on the residence once per day, for no more than two (2) weeks at a time, and four (4) times per year.
CRITERIA: The property owner must be a fulltime resident of Oak Island. Unless special circumstances exist, the property cannot:
• Be a second property / vacation home
• Be vacant due to being for sale
• Be under construction
HOW TO APPLY. To register a home for the Security Check program, just submit a request form online, or come to the Oak Island Police Department and fill out a form in person.
To submit a Security Check Request Form, just click on the Security Check Program tab of the Police Department's poage oin the town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/PD or click the link below.
COMING EVENTS & PROGRAMS
REMINDER: Information on all special events, recreation programs, and educational activities can be found on the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/EVENTS.
CHOP With A Cop
WHEN: Tuesday, June 27, 2023 • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
WHERE: Throw Baxe Axe House and Board Game Lounge • 806 N Howe Street, Southport, NC
COST: FREE (registration required - only 48 spaces available!)
REGISTER: www.OakIslandNC.gov/RecDesk
ABOUT: Chop with a Cop is an exciting and FREE program that allows teens aged 13-18 to join officers from four different agencies in axe throwing competition. This event provides teens with one hour of practice and one hour of competitive throwing. Teams will be randomly assigned, however selected time slots will be honored. Competition will be held in two sessions: 10:00 AM - NOON -&- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Waivers must be signed by parent or guardian day of event)
Summer Concert Series
WHEN: NOW through September 2 • 6:20 PM
WHERE: Middleton Park Complex Amphitheater
ABOUT: The sun is out, the fun is back, and the “Bands by the Beach” are once again ready to rock, groove, swing and swoon their way through the soundtrack of your perfect summer! For 15 weeks, from May to September, we turn the amps up to “11” and come together for the annual Town of Oak Island Summer Concert Series. The scheduled time for most concert events will be each Friday, from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM unless otherwise noted. Full series information, concert dates, and scheduled bands are available at www.OakIslandNC.gov/CONCERT.
Nature Center Now Open
WHEN: Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
WHERE: Nature Center • 5202 E. Yacht Dr.
COST: Free to attend
ABOUT: Get hands on with Oak Island conversation at Oak Island Nature Center. Nestled just next to the Intracoastal Waterway, it is the perfect place to let the kids play and explore while area volunteers share a wealth of knowledge about the wildlife that make their home along the Intracoastal Waterway. The Oak Island Nature Center features a fishing tee, shelter, floating dock, and more unique perspectives on island living for both residents and visitors. Oak Island Nature Center holds various youth programs throughout the summer, so be sure to stay tuned for more summer fun just around the corner! For questions, or more information, please contact Program Supervisor, Ryan Gordon, at rgordon@oakislandnc.gov or by calling 910-278-4747.
Ocean Education Center Now Open
WHEN: Mondays, Tuesdays, & Wednesdays • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
WHERE: Ocean Education Center • 4700 E. Oak Island Dr.
COST: Free to attend
ABOUT: Thought you knew everything about the beach? Uncover secrets hidden in the sand as the Island’s newest community space features hands of crafts and activities that the entire family will love. Located on NE 46th St; learn about sea turtles, crabs, dolphins, and other classic sea animals as area volunteers share insight into many of the coasts biggest challenges and what we can do to help. Oak Island Ocean Education Center holds various youth programs throughout the summer, so be sure to stay tuned for more summer fun just around the corner! For questions, or more information, please contact Program Supervisor, Ryan Gordon, at rgordon@oakislandnc.gov or by calling 910-278-4747.
PLEASE NOTE: There are MANY fun, educational, and exciting events and programs planned for the month ahead (way too many to list here)! For a complete list of upcoming activities, contact the Recreation Department at 910-278-5518, or visit the EVENTS & PROGRAMS page of the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/EVENTS, or just click the link below.
DEPARTMENT FEATURE: OAK ISLAND DEPARTMENT
THE SCENE: It's late one night, and you've just settled into you favorite recliner at the back of the house, to wind down with your favorite TV show before heading to off bed. It's quiet, just a slight breeze outside and no real noise from the neighbors. All of a sudden, you hear a loud banging at your door. you hear someone screaming, but can't make it out. As you get up and turn the corner of the hallway to head for the door, you quickly realize the frantic banging is your worried neighbor, and between you and her is a hallway that is quickly becoming engulfed in fire! Almost simultaneously your home's smoke alarms go off.
The beeping fire alarm, that banging on the door with a screaming neighbor, the crackling of wood and hiss of steam, the TV still playing somewhere in the background ... you're briefly overwhelmed by the sudden overwash of sounds, until you realize they are quickly becoming clouded by the choking, dimming presence of smoke. Then, just as quickly, you realize you are wasting precious seconds, and must leave your home immediately, because that fire is heading towards you.
Thankfully, there's someone else who is already heading towards you, too.
The Oak Island Fire Department (OKI-FD) is a combination department that includes dedicated volunteers and career personnel. Their responsibilities include fire suppression, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, response to medical emergencies and other public health, safety, and welfare conditions that threaten the Oak Island community. the OKI-FD is also active in Fire Prevention & Public Education activities.
Their stated mission is to "Protect the lives and property of Oak Island residents and visitors through Fire Prevention & Education, Fire & Rescue Response, Emergency Medical Care, Service, Support and Dedication to the Citizens, Town, and our Families."
PROFILE: Fire Chief Lee Price Began in 1990 as a volunteer member of the Wake New Hope Fire Department in Raleigh, NC
He held the ranks of Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief and later served as Chief of the Department from 2018 - 2022.
Additionally, Price worked full time with the Rolesville Fire Department from 2006 – 2019, holding the ranks of Firefighter, Engineer, Lieutenant, and Captain.
He has held multiple committee appointments and positions within various organizations, including president of the Wake County Firefighters association, and continually serves as a part-time instructor Fire Instructor for Wake Technical College.
Add to that, the more than 20 professional training certifications to his name, it's easy to see why Lee Price was an easy choice for Fire Chief in Oak Island.
PROFILE: Assistant Fire Chief Chris Sillings began his fire service career as a volunteer in 2001 with the Yaupon Volunteer Department. He has been with OKI-FD for the bulk of his career since, but has actively supported multiple volunteer departments throughout Brunswick County. He has even served part-time with New Hanover EMS, and fulltime with the Wrightsville Beach Fire Department.
Sillings first joined the Oak Island Fire Department in 2007 as a Firefighter, later advancing to Lieutenant and eventually Captain of his shift. He also served in the dual role of EMT-Paramedic, after becoming certified in 2015.
A Brunswick County native himself, Chris Sillings originally joined the fire service because of his his desire to serve others in his community. It was a decision he has never regretted, as he continues to enjoy helping other in his expanded role as Assistant Chief.
That desire to challenge himself and help his community has not slowed down with advancement in rank, as Sillings maintains over a dozen professional training certifications. This is added to the wealth of local knowledge he brings from his 16 years of service to the Oak Island community.
In addition to the Chief and Assistant Chief, Department staff also includes an Administrative Assistant and around 35 full and part-time employees. Services are provided 24 hours a day through three shifts (A, B, & C, pictured below), each maintaining 1 Captain, 1 Lieutenant, and 4 Firefighter / EMT's. Additionally, the Department has also launched the new Beach Patrol Unit for 2023, which provides additional medical and rescue services in the public beach areas, through the Department's new Quick Respond Vehicle (QRV). All paid staff are required to pass a written Firefighter Exam, a written EMT Exam, pass an oral Interview in front of a review panel, and pass a Job-Related Physical Assessment Test (JRPAT). Staff must also meet mandatory annual continuing education training hours in specified topics, and are required to train on a monthly basis.
The OKI-FD response district includes all of the Town's corporate limits on the Island and the mainland, which includes portions of NC 211, Middleton Blvd., and Long Beach Road. In 2022, the Department had an average response time to all incident types in all areas of its primary response district, and mutual aid districts of 7 minutes, 21 seconds from the time of dispatched to time of arrival. In addition to emergency response, staff conduct several hundred hours of service and support work every year, including the annual testing and inspection of Town & County fire hydrants. Crews work hard to maintain themselves and their equipment, to be in state of constant readiness. This allows for a rapid but consistent response to any emergencies from their community or mutual aid partners.
IT'S ABOUT EDUCATION. While the scene described in the opening may seem dramatic, it's a very real experience for someone caught off guard by a house fire. Our homes are the one place we know more about that any other location in our lives, and we feel more secure in them than anywhere else. To have that security suddenly ripped away from you, without even having the time to process the events as they unfold ... that can be frightening. Overwhelming, even. That's why the Oak Island Fire Department works just as hard at preventing fires as they do fighting fires.
From hosting Junior Fire Camps, public speaking engagements, and even the Department's first ever See You At The Station night last October, getting out in the public and educating all ages on fire safety is a primary goal of this department. Being a firefighter isn't about driving shiny trucks and playing with big equipment (although make no mistake, they absolutely LOVE that part!), it's about having a heart for your community. It's about the pride of knowing your neighbors can call on you, not just when a disaster strikes, but also to give them the tools they need to prevent one.
Whether it's through their public education efforts, or the unfortunate need of emergency response, the dedicated professionals of the Oak Island Fire Department stand ready to assist in any capacity. To learn more about the Department, and all of the services they offer, just visit their page of the Town Website at www.OakIslandNC.gov/FD, or click the link below.
PHOTO REVIEW
Provided below are examples of the visuals seen around Town throughout the past month. This section contains officially published AND reader submitted photos. Submissions are donated and not compensated, but are properly credited in the captions below. To contribute a submission, please email the photo along with a description of the date, location, and photographer or business name to: photos@oakislandnc.gov.
Thank you for reading this edition of THE CURRENT. This information is produced by the Town of Oak Island Communications Office and is intended for information and educational purposes only. Any perceived endorsements or promotion of any third-party products, services, or organizations is unintentional. For more information on any of the departments or services provided by the Town of Oak Island, visit www.OakIslandNC.gov/CONTACT, call 910-278-5011, or email info@oakislandnc.gov.
©2023 Town of Oak Island, NC. All Rights Reserved.
Credits:
Created with images by Michael Scott Emory, Shawn Barry