EMERALD TIDINGS - July 2024 | |
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Emerald Tidings, composed monthly by Town Manager Matt Zapp,
is the official newsletter of the Town of Emerald Isle, NC.
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The Power of Native Plants
Join us as we explore the incredible benefits of using native plants in Emerald Isle's coastal areas! In this video, produced by the Town of Emerald Isle, you'll learn how native plants help protect our environment, support local wildlife, and enhance the natural beauty of our community.
Discover why native plants are essential for:
Preventing coastal erosion
Providing habitat for local wildlife
Reducing water usage
Maintaining the natural landscape
Watch now to see how you can contribute to preserving Emerald Isle's unique coastal ecosystem by incorporating native plants into your landscaping. Let's work together to keep our community beautiful and sustainable!
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Independence Day
Beach Blast
July 3
Hey, Emerald Isle! Get ready for some fun in the sun at our Independence Day Beach Bash on Wednesday, July 3, 2024!
Join us from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM (or while supplies last) at both the Western Ocean Regional Access and East Ocean Regional Access for a fantastic celebration.
FREE Hot Dogs and Popsicles!
Great Music!
Festive Giveaways!
Bring your family and friends for a fun-filled day at the beach. Let’s kick off our Independence Day celebrations together with good food, good vibes, and great company. Don’t miss out!
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Offices Closed for Fourth of July
We would like to inform you that the Town's Administrative Offices and Community Center will be closed on Thursday, July 4, to observe Independence Day.
However, we want you to know that our Emerald Isle Police, Fire and EMS will continue to work tirelessly over the holiday to ensure that our community remains safe and well-served.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time and hope you have a happy and safe Independence Day celebration.
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Emerald Fest Concert Series Underway
Join us every Thursday evening at Western Ocean Regional Beach Access from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM for some fantastic tunes by the sea.
July Lineup:
July 4: NO EMERALD FEST
July 11: The RV Road Show
July 18:Barefoot Wade
July 25: Big Sam & Co.
August Acts:
August 1: Taj Petrilli & Hank Barbie
August 8: Knok Knok Band
August 15: Justin Castellano
Mark your calendars and bring your chairs or blankets but no alcohol. It’s the perfect way to spend your summer evenings, enjoying live music with friends and family.
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Community Conversations
Mark your calendars for the next "Community Conversations," your quarterly opportunity to sit down with our local commissioners in a relaxed, friendly environment.
When & Where? Monday, August 5th, from 4:30 to 6:30 at The Village Market in Emerald Isle, NC
Why Attend? This is your golden chance to:
Engage Directly with our elected commissioners. Have a question or an idea to improve our town? Here's where you can share it!
Discuss Community Issues that matter to you. From public safety to environmental concerns, let's dive into the topics that touch our lives.
Strengthen Community Ties by meeting fellow residents and local leaders. It's all about building a stronger, more connected Emerald Isle.
What to Expect?
Open and honest discussions in a judgement-free zone.
A casual atmosphere where you can pop by and chat.
An opportunity to be heard and to listen, bridging gaps between residents and local government.
Who's Invited?
Everyone! Whether you're a longtime resident or new to our community, your voice is important. "Community Conversations" is about bringing us all together to share, learn, and grow as a community. Let's make Emerald Isle an even better place to live, one conversation at a time.
See you there!
Your Voice, Our Community, One Conversation at a Time.
For updates, future Community Conversation events, and more information please follow us on our social media channels and stay tuned to our official website.
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Jr. Lifeguard Camps to be held this month | |
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Are you ready for a summer filled with excitement and adventure? Come be apart of the 2024 Junior Lifeguard Camp in Emerald Isle! See the remaining spots below.
July 9th - 12th, Session 1- 3 spots remaining (9-12)
July 22nd - 25th, Session 1- 2 spots remaining (9-12)
Designed for kids who love the beach and want to learn valuable skills! Our Junior Lifeguard Camp offers an unforgettable experience! Led by the experienced staff of the Emerald Isle Fire Department, including our highly skilled Ocean Rescue Lifeguard team!
Throughout the camp, participants will dive into a variety of safety measures on the beach strand and in the water. Spaces are limited, so don't miss out! Visit our Fire Station 1 or call us today to secure your child's spot. See you on the beach!
For more info
https://www.emeraldisle-nc.org/370/Junior-Lifeguard-Program
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Emerald Isle Bike Path Safety Video | |
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Attention all bike enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers! We are thrilled to share our video showcasing the stunning bike path in Emerald Isle and promoting bike rider safety.
This video not only highlights the scenic beauty but also emphasizes the importance of bike rider safety. Learn valuable tips, tricks, and best practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable biking experience for all.
So, grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and explore the wonders of Emerald Isle's bike path.
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Time to Educate Yourself
on Beach Safety Information
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Prepare Now for Hurricane Season
The Atlantic Hurricane Season, which extends until November, presents a critical window for preparation.
Property owners in Emerald Isle are strongly advised to take proactive steps now to secure a disaster re-entry permit. Property owners should take steps to obtain a disaster re-entry permit by applying for one through the Police Department if it is not already in their possession.
Proof of residency will be a necessary component of this application process.
Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that your hurricane kit is adequately supplied and that your property is suitably equipped to weather any potential storms that may impact North Carolina.
By taking these precautionary measures ahead of time, property owners can significantly mitigate the potential risks associated with the hurricane season.
You can find a comprehensive emergency preparedness list and other important information on our website.
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New Fiscal Year Begins July 1
The 2024-25 Fiscal Year begins today and will run through June 30, 2025.
The Emerald Isle Board of Commissioners approved the budget at the June 11th meeting, maintaining a property tax rate of $0.165.
Learn More: https://www.emeraldisle-nc.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=393
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Beach Parking Passes Available through EIPD
Paid parking is underway and two free passes are available for Emerald Isle taxpayers. The Town's paid parking is at the Eastern and Western Ocean Regional accesses.
In addition, Handicapped/100% Disabled Vet, Purple Heart or Emerald Isle Business Owners are eligible for one free permit. Supporting documentation must be uploaded when applying for this one free permit in these categories. You must have this permit in hand before going to the access points to be eligible. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, same day service is not available.
Parking pass applications are available online, or you may stop by the Police Department at 7500 Emerald Drive to apply in person. You will need a current vehicle registration and driver’s license when applying for your permit. If you have questions, please call EIPD at 252-354-2021.
Emerald Isle taxpayers are eligible to receive two annual free parking permits that can be used at the Eastern Ocean Regional and Western Ocean Regional accesses. These parking permits will be granted only for vehicles registered in the name of the taxpayer and are non-transferable.
The permit decal must be for the current year and be permanently affixed to the driver’s side windshield. Improper placement of decals may result in paying the parking fee, confiscation or possible citation. Lost or confiscated permits will not be reissued. You are required to remove decals from previous years.
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Golf Cart Safety, Rules
and Regulations Class Online
The Emerald Isle Golf Cart Safety, Rules & Regulations Class is available online. You can find out information concerning this online class and save $25 off your registration/ renewal for 2024 by visiting our website.
To renew your registration, you will first watch a video that explains some golf cart rules and regulations, and review the PowerPoint presentation before taking your short test to receive the $25 discount. Once you have taken the test, you will need to fill out and submit the registration application form.
Important reminder: Golf Carts are not permitted to be operated along the length of Highway 58.
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Emerald Isle Fishing Tournament 2024
Join us for the EI Fishing Tournament on September 28th at Emerald Isle!
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a young enthusiast, there's something for everyone, with a boat and surf fishing division!
This fantastic event not only promises a great time but also supports our local scholarship program and dredging.
Visit www.EIfishing.com for all the exciting details.
See you on the water at the EI Fishing Tournament!
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Neighborhood Watch Newsletter
Join the Emerald Isle Neighborhood Watch Newsletter and Strengthen Community Safety!
By signing up for this newsletter, you can stay informed, connected, and actively contribute to creating a safer environment for all of us.
The Neighborhood Watch Newsletter is designed to provide you with important updates, tips, and information related to community safety. From crime prevention strategies and emergency preparedness guidelines to updates on local initiatives and events, we've got you covered.
Signing up is quick and easy. Simply click open the subscription form. Enter your email address, and voila! You'll start receiving regular newsletters directly to your inbox.
By joining the Neighborhood Watch Newsletter, you become an integral part of our community's proactive approach to safety. Together, we can be the eyes and ears of our neighborhood, supporting law enforcement efforts and fostering a sense of unity and vigilance.
We encourage you to spread the word and invite your neighbors, friends, and family members to sign up for the Neighborhood Watch Newsletter. The more people we have on board, the stronger our community becomes.
Remember, safety starts with awareness, and the Neighborhood Watch Newsletter is your gateway to staying informed and making a difference. Let's work together to build a safer, more connected Emerald Isle.
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Stay Up To Date: Follow Us Online
The Town of Emerald Isle has a number of official online platforms you can use to stay connected to the latest news, our live beach and traffic cameras, and more. You can also view the monthly Board of Commissioners meetings, which are live streamed on our Facebook page. These meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.
Follow us on the following platforms:
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Our website: Emeraldisle-nc.org
- Our free Emerald Isle, NC app, available on the App Store and Google Play
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Register for the Medically Fragile List
The Town's Fire Department provides for special medical care and/or help evacuating during disasters, including hurricanes, to those who are registered under the Medically Fragile List. This is a voluntary program.
It is important to note that this form should be completed and submitted to Emerald Isle FD well in advance of impending disasters. If you or your family member are not already on this list, please take the time today to register.
Contact Emerald Isle FD at 252-354-8595 if you have additional questions, or would like to register with the Medically Fragile list. Register online here.
Emerald Isle’s Emergency Medical Services Subscription Program
The Town of Emerald Isle’s Fire Department is offering a subscription program to help offset these costs. This is a voluntary program.
Your annual subscription of $50 covers the direct costs of ambulance services not paid by your insurance. Sign up today and save!
Your subscription begins two days after receipt of application, payment, and acceptance by the Town of Emerald Isle’s Fire Department and expires on June 30th, 2025.
There will be no refunds for cancelled or forfeited memberships.
Register Online Here.
Credit card payments can be accepted by visiting:
https://www.cognitoforms.com/EmeraldIsle2/AmbulanceSubscriptionApplication202425
Contact Emerald Isle EMS at 252-354-8595 if you have additional questions.
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Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative Information
The tropics are already heating up and CCEC wants you to be prepared if a tropical system impacts our area. Here are a few simple steps to prepare for and stay safe this hurricane season:
· Outline a communication and evacuation plan for your family. If you have pets, include them in your plan.
· Connect with the co-op on Facebook at facebook.com/CarteretCraven to stay informed about outages and other pertinent information.
· Bookmark our live outage map at http://outage.carteretcraven.coop/ for a real-time look at power outages across our service territory. Remember! Check the map before calling to report an outage.
· Enroll to receive outage text alerts. CCEC members can be notified when the power goes out at your home or business. Text CCEMC to 1-800-682-2217. Keep in mind that during widespread, long-duration outages, text alerts may be disabled.
· Sign up for local weather alerts. Follow a trusted source for weather information like the National Weather Service (facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity) or the National Hurricane Center (facebook.com/NWSNHC).
You can also visit ReadyNC.org for real-time weather and traffic information.
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Emerald Isle Sea Turtle Patrol
Sea Turtle nesting season kicked off Wednesday, May 1st.
EI Sea Turtle Patrol Volunteers will be hitting the beach bright and early.
Please be aware and on the lookout for turtle tracks!
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Beach Birds Stewards of Emerald Isle
Early morning light slowly illuminates the Emerald Isle Point exposing the unique avian fauna.
Ed Phillips arrives with tripod and scope in hand to count the nesting birds, their offspring, and any unique species that show up one more time.
Each week for years, Ed has dutifully shared his data with the N.C. Wildlife and everyone else around the world on eBird. Dedicated to provide this information is but one of his missions. He also is a Scout leader for our youth inspiring them onward to be their best.
It’s people like Ed who make Emerald Isle such a special place. He’s inquisitive, inspiring, and ready to share his knowledge of the local birds with anyone who asks.
Emerald Isle is truly a special place not only for its beauty and unique wildlife but also for those who live here and cherish the opportunity.
Look for Ed and the other Waterbird Stewards who educate and maintain the enclosed area at the Emerald Isle Point. They are truly dedicated to all that Emerald Isle symbolizes, “Nice Matters”.
Wednesday mornings are when you’ll find him and others exploring The Point.
Welcome!
For more information or if you would enjoy being an Emerald Isle Beach Bird Steward, please email beachbirdsteward@gmail.com
You can also like us on Facebook to get the latest updates: Beach Bird Stewards of Emerald Isle
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