2020

ANNUAL REVIEW

LETTER FROM THE CHAIR Thank you for your continued love and support of the North Carolina Aquariums and Jennette’s Pier! We are happy to share this digital version of our 2020 Annual Review, through which we’re pleased to provide updates on some of your favorite animals, facilities and projects. It’s no secret that the past year has challenged everyone, especially attractions like the Aquariums that rely on visitation to generate revenue in support of their operation and mission. Being closed through summer 2020 was challenging but necessary. But our financial picture gets brighter every day, thanks to the return of visitors last fall and your generous support through our Wishes for Fishes campaign. During this time we also took the opportunity to launch a new online giftshop, acquire sponsors for several new exhibits, and keep in close touch with our dedicated family of Aquarium members. If you haven’t already, we hope you enjoy your return to the Aquariums and Pier this spring—with all safety measures in place. We look forward to seeing you!

NC AQUARIUM SOCIETY BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021 Hope Williams, Chair Raleigh, NC Deborah Albert Wilmington, NC Bill Belk Charlotte, NC Bill Berry Charlotte, NC

CHARLTON BURNS 2020 Board Chair

Charlton Burns Morehead City, NC

2019

109,199 visitors

463,750 visitors

Sissy Chesnutt New Bern, NC

2,892 Students Hosted 622 Volunteers 6,509 Volunteer Hours

24,083 Students Hosted 614 Volunteers 33,499 Volunteer Hours

Steve Coggins Wilmington, NC Drew Covert Mt. Olive, NC

100,895 visitors

355,305 visitors

1,669 Students Hosted 813 Volunteers 5,478 Volunteer Hours

23,463 Students Hosted 278 Volunteers 20,089 Volunteer Hours

PINE KNOLL SHORES

63,918 visitors

290,863 visitors

1,389 Students Hosted 476 Volunteers 5,011 Volunteer Hours

11,072 Students Hosted 175 Volunteers 12,018 Volunteer Hours

ROANOKE ISLAND

JENNETTE’S PIER

Brick Brown Raleigh, NC

2020

FORT FISHER

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Myra Best Raleigh, NC

Charles Evans Manteo, NC Jacquie Gilliam Greensboro, NC Carolyn Green Greensboro, NC Allan B. Harvin Goldsboro, NC Camilla Herlevich Wilmington, NC Tom Hackney Wilson, NC Olivia Holding Raleigh, NC

112,682 visitors

178,912 visitors

0 Students Hosted 0 Volunteers 0 Volunteer Hours

>10,000 Students Hosted 7 Volunteers 400 Volunteer Hours

Tess Judge Kitty Hawk, NC

Art Keeney Engelhard, NC

Jon Segal New Bern, NC

Bill Taft Greenville, NC

Joyce Kohn Raleigh, NC

Adam Shay Wilmington, NC

George W. Taylor Wilmington, NC

Mary K. Lawrence Newport, NC

Ronnie Sloan Manteo, NC

Ray White Nags Head, NC

Bob Mattocks New Bern, NC

Clark Twiddy Kitty Hawk, NC

David Womack Greenville, NC

Susan Moffat-Thomas New Bern, NC

John Ward New Bern, NC

John Jordan (deceased) Raleigh, NC

Rebecca McCabe Cary, NC

Mary C. Watzin Raleigh, NC

Darlene Young (deceased) Greensboro, NC

Adrienne Moore Wilmington, NC

Jordy Whichard Greenville, NC

Greg Nichols Goldsboro, NC

Rick Willetts Wilmington, NC

AQUARIUM SOCIETY STAFF

Dana O’Donovan Wilmington, NC

Reid Wilson Raleigh, NC

Betsy Oakley Greensboro, NC

BOARD EMERITI

Jane Smith Patterson Chapel Hill, NC Suzanne Pecheles Greenville, NC Wes Perry Kinston, NC Charles Pierce Ahoskie, NC Edythe Poyner Raleigh, NC Greg Proctor Wilmington, NC Chuck Revelle Murfreesboro, NC Bruce Roberts Brevard, NC Wes Seegars Goldsboro, NC

Marvin L. Barnes Durham, NC Frank L. Block Wrightsville Beach, NC Alice Bost Greenville, NC Dick Futrell Morehead City, NC Jean Kilgore Raleigh, NC Alex MacFadyen Raleigh, NC Connie Parker Wilmington, NC Walter Phillips Newport, NC Buck Suiter Ahoskie, NC

Jay Barnes, President & CEO Raleigh, NC Jim Mulvey, Director of Development Wendell, NC Heather Flynt, Controller Wake Forest, NC Barbara Bayer, Director of Retail Raleigh, NC

AQUARIUM DIVISION STAFF Maylon White, Director NC Aquariums Division Hap Fatzinger, Director NC Aquarium Fort Fisher Liz Baird, Director NC Aquarium Pine Knoll Shores Larry Warner, Director NC Aquarium Roanoke Island Mike Remige, Director Jennette’s Pier Nags Head

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COVID-19 IMPACT

Normally, Joanna Zazzali, Visitors Services Coordinator, manages ticketing, admissions and security at Fort Fisher. During the closure, she served on Fort Fisher’s Essential Operations Team, with her days filled assisting trained husbandry staff in caring for the animals, from prepping food for sea turtles to hand feeding stingrays. “I appreciate more than ever before all that is required to care for the animals living at the aquariums,” said Zazzali. “It’s hard work but I’m so happy I was able to contribute in this way.”

improvements to the aquarium’s facility,” said Allen McDowell, associate director of the Aquarium on Roanoke Island. “Upgrading systems such as our chillers, boilers, and air handlers ensures the animals’ habitats are safely maintained within ideal environmental conditions.” “We also made improvements to our electrical systems to improve our emergency capabilities in the future,” McDowell said. “Throughout this, staff maintained thorough cleaning and sterilization of all surfaces for the safety of our staff and animals.” Jennette’s Pier Director Mike Remige said staff worked diligently on maintenance projects to prepare for the summer season while still completing a long list of repairs from Hurricane Dorian.

While many people in the state were home caring for their families, the North Carolina Aquariums continued caring for theirs. Despite closing the doors to the public to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in March 2020, staff provided continuous care for thousands of animals. Additionally, teams at each site, Fort Fisher, Pine Knoll Shores, Roanoke Island and Jennette’s Pier, explored and implemented new ways to engage with those observing Governor Roy Cooper’s stay-at-home orders. “This has been a challenging time. Aquariums and zoos across the nation and around the world have adapted and continue to adapt to the changing health crisis,” said Maylon White, North Carolina Aquarium Division director. “I am proud of the hard work our staff have done to continue to provide excellent care for our animals, as well as to stay connected to our visitors.” Specific staff members had limited access to the aquariums beginning immediately after public operations were suspended on March 17, 2020. Staff identified as essential were split into two teams, working alternate 4

schedules to assist with the care of animals and maintenance of each aquarium. Other staff members began work from home to help with ongoing operations. “Our dedicated team members adapted to new safety protocols like social distancing and frequent disinfection, providing animal care seven days a week and continuing critical operations. Some staff stepped into new roles on our Essential Operations Teams,” said Hap Fatzinger, Director of North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

Remige added that pier staff continued to stay engaged with the community. “We’re still producing educational content and posting it online so it’s available for teachers and students who are learning from home,” he said. “And staff were still heavily involved as first responders for the Outer Banks Marine Mammal Stranding Network.”

While some staff took on new roles, others learned new ways to continue conducting their daily responsibilities from home, like producing educational videos posted on the aquariums’ and pier’s social media sites. “This was a unique time but also fun and allowed us to be creative. It has provided an opportunity to not only connect with individuals who normally come to the aquarium, but we were able to share with people around the world. Even though we were apart we were still able to connect and share what we love – our love of animals and the environment,” said Nicole Warren, an educator and bird trainer with the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. “This is going to make us better in the long run.” Aquarium staff from across the division worked to maintain the buildings and grounds. “We made the best out of a difficult situation by continuing to maintain and provide needed

Most importantly, however, he and the rest of the staff were ready for visitors to return. Fortunately, Jennette’s Pier did not have to wait as long. After remaining closed through the first week of June, the popular attraction at Whalebone Junction reopened its wooden gates to anglers and walkers on June 8, 2020. North Carolina’s three aquariums reopened to the public on Monday, Sept. 14, 2020. The reopening came after North Carolina moved into Phase 2.5 of its reopening plan during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and other museums across the state also began welcoming visitors again. “We were excited to be able to do what we do best, which is share the truly astounding animals and habitats we care for,” said Maylon White, North Carolina Aquariums director. “The public is a key component in our mission of education and inspiration, and we were so happy to have them back.” 5

AQUARIUM SCHOLARS ADAPTS TO CONTINUE SERVING STUDENTS

AQUARIUM SCHOLARS OUTCOMES

73

SPRING 2018 - SPRING 2021

Counties Served Counties that have not yet participated

2020 - 2021 AQUARIUM SCHOLAR OUTCOMES

total outcomes for the program since 2018

Number of Students Served

Number of Students Served

13k+

Total Grants Awarded Aquarium Scholars is a partnership between the NC Aquariums, our state’s public schools, and the Aquarium Society through which we provide students at Title I schools with access to the NC Aquariums’ unique STEM-based environmental education and conservation programs. Typically, teachers from Title I schools apply for Aquarium Scholars funding for class field trips to one of our three aquariums or Jennette’s Pier, or for Aquarium outreach in which our educators bring programs to schools. This year, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Aquariums’ education teams created additional, dynamic, virtual learning opportunities to help create a partnership with Aquarium Scholars schools through online learning. Through this new online content, thousands of students from Title I schools, especially those from rural counties, will gain exposure to the wonders of North Carolina’s aquatic life. Online learning has achieved a new importance with the development of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 6

many schools being shifted to this mode of reaching students. Using Aquarium Scholars funding, our educators created a modular online learning experience where each Aquarium location explores topics of expertise at their facilities. Each module consists of videos, related activities, and curriculum, and include the option for add-ons such as personal online interactions with an educator. To date, more than a dozen corporations and foundations have signed on as major sponsors of the effort. For more information, deadlines, and the online application, teachers can visit ncaquariums.com. Start by selecting the closest or preferred location, then fill out a grant application (available late summer 2021).

$61k+

Number of Grants Awarded

209

17

Field Trips

Total Grants Awarded

45k+ $318k+

Number of Grants Awarded

564

Field Trips

225

Outreach Visits

9

Outreach Visits

126

Virtual Programs

180

Virtual Programs

183

AQUARIUM SCHOLARS DONORS FOUNDERS

INVESTORS

Rotary Club of Kinston

RA Bryan Foundation

Harold H. Bate Foundation

Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation

Duke Energy Foundation

Bill & Bob Dobo Trust

NC GlaxoSmithKline Foundation

Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation

Grady-White Boats

Goodnight Educational Foundation

Wells Fargo Foundation

Allan C. and Margaret L. Mims Charitable Trust

Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q Southern Bank Foundation Triad Foundation Walters Family Foundation 100% of Aquarium Society Board of

Tetlow and Roy Park Aquarium Legacy Fund

Directors

George Smedes Poyner Foundation

Other Individuals

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LIFETIME GIVING

(Gifts of $5,000 $25,000)

Marc & Sissy Chesnutt

Kitty Hawk Kites

PPD

Clancy & Theys Construction

John & Marian Kutzer

Edythe Poyner & Steve Williams

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty

Landfall Foundation

Emily Procter

Rosie Lasinski Fund

Community Foundation of Southeastern NC

Pure Fishing

Mr. & Mrs. Steve MacCurry

RBC Bank

Cooperative Bank for Savings

MAMEA – Mid-Atlantic Marine Education Association

Realty World, The Selling Team, Llew & Elaine

GRAND BENEFACTORS

Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority

Bill & Georgia Belk

Betsy & Mitch Oakley OceanReef

(Gifts of $1 Million or More)

Duke Energy Foundation

Steve Bell

Mary Whiting Ewing Foundation

Alice Bost

David O’Loughlin Family

R.A. Bryan Foundation

The Outer Banks Hospital

Tootsie Adderholdt & Alice Engel

Charlton & Peg Burns

Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

Ambrose Signs

The Corcoran Family

Carteret County

Park Foundation

Susan E. Martin

Dairy Queen

George & Sylvia Rountree, III

Carteret Health Care

Warren & Barbara Perry

Ann Maxwell

Walter Daniels

Sally Johns Design

Carteret Publishing Company

Wes & Stewart Perry

Association of Zoos & Aquariums/Walt Disney Company

Discovery Diving

David & Lesley McAdams – McAdams Foundation

Salty Dawg Marina

Coastal Beverage Company

Walter & Pam Phillips

Dive Rite

Rebecca & John McCabe

Dare County Tourism Board

Lonnie & Carol Lynn Poole

Margo McKnight

Tom Davis Fund

Buddy & Stu Pope

Ashley Dozier – In Memory of Graham Dozier

Harry & Lila Schiffman

Emerald Isle Realty

Thomas Reese

DuPont

Microsoft TechSoup

First National Bank

Chuck & Bonnie Revelle

Embarq Corporation

Minnesota Zoo Foundation

William C. Ethridge Foundation

Susan Moffat-Thomas

Charles & Becky Evans

Adrienne Moore

Ashe B. Exum First Union Foundation

James E. Moore Insurance Agency

Florida Aquarium

Mt. Olive Pickle Company

Jake & Mazie Froelich

Mystic Aquarium

Full Send Racing

National Aquarium – Baltimore

Georgia Aquarium

NC 529 College Savings Program

NC Clean Water Management Trust Fund NC Waterfront Access & Marine Industry Fund

First Citizens Bank AJ Fletcher Foundation General Federation of Women’s Clubs of NC Grady-White Boats

Pepsi Bottling Ventures/Pepsico

Olivia Holding

Triad Foundation

Bill & Marilyn Hull

BENEFACTORS (Gifts of $500,000 $1 Million) Dare County Bill & Barbara Dobo Bob & Dot Dobo Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation

Institute for Museum & Library Services Kealy Family Foundation Ben & Jean Kilgore Mary Katherine Lawrence & Art Klose Bob & Carol Mattocks Percy W. & Elizabeth G. Meekins Charitable Trust

FotoFX - Dave Tichenor

NC Coastal Area Management Act

Bee & Tom Gwynn

Nucor Steel

NC Association of Outdoor Advertisers

Hank & Jane Smith Patterson

NC Coastal Recreational Fishing License Program

Michael & Debbie Thompson

NOAA - National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration David & Sydney Womack

GUARDIANS (Gifts of $100,000 $500,000) Anonymous Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament Burroughs Wellcome Fund The Cannon Foundation Centura Bank Drew & Vickey Covert

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SPONSORS

George & Suzanne Taylor Town of Nags Head Union Concrete

Dick & Billie Futrell

Rockett, Burkhead & Winslow

A.C. & Dot Hall

Safari Club International

Hatteras Yachts

Safrit’s Building Supply

Ella Ann L. & Frank B. Holding Foundation

Jason & Melody Seely

Arthur & Elaine Johnson Foundation

George Smedes Poyner Foundation

Art & Alice Keeney

Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar -B-Q

Kelly’s Restaurant

Southern Bank Foundation

Kurtis Chevrolet

Buck Suiter Family

Carter & Janie Lambeth

Mathew & Maureen Sullivan - In Memory of Eugene Sullivan

Alex & Carolyn MacFadyen Sam & Kim McConkey Montery Bay Aquarium

Sunlite Supply Bill & Mary Hannah Taft Time Warner-Connect a Million Minds

Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation

Munson Aquatic Conservation Exhibit Award

CONSERVATORS

National Marine Sanctuary Foundation

Transportation Impact

NC GlaxoSmithKline Foundation

Twiddy & Company Family

NC State University Sea Grant

Gary L. Wagner

(Gifts of $25,000 $100,000) Anonymous Association of Zoos & Aquariums Marvin & Cynthia Barnes Harold H. Bate Foundation BB&T

NEST – Network for Endangered Sea Turtles New Hanover County North Carolina Community Foundation Nutrien

Triangle Land Conservancy Wachovia Foundation Walters Family Foundation Krystal & William Webb Wells Fargo Foundation Yadkin Bank (East Carolina Bank, Vintage South Bank)

Deborah Albert

Atlantic Strategies Group Atlantis Lodge Casey Ball & Dan Tomlinson Bembridge Insurance Agencies Jonathan and Gail Berry William & Marianne Berry Myra Best Biggs Cadillac, Buick, GMC Truck Betsy Blackwell & John Watson Frank & Wendy Block Marvin & Rebecca Blount Bluewater GMAC BMH Architects Gil Burnett Tim Cafferty - In Memory of Bill Koebernick Dan Cameron Family Foundation John & Ann Campbell Cape Fear Garden Club Capital Development Services Carteret County Sportfishing Club

Goodnight Educational Foundation Art & Carolyn Green Lena & Brian Greer John Hackney Agency Thomas & Susan Hackney Ted & Peggy Haigler Allan & Nancy Harvin Cary Hawthorne Richard & Linda Howell

Carteret-Craven Electric Membership Cooperative

Jonathan & Mary Howes

Craig Castor

Joanna Foundation

CenturyLink

Jay & Karen Johnson

Kay & Ken Chalk

Mike & Gree Jones

Lucille M. Chaveas – In Memory Kevin W. Yurecka

Kellogg Supply Company

Cherbec Foundation

Lisa Kemplin

Igoe Creative

Roger Kemble

Harvey McNairy Foundation

NCDENR Office of Environmental Education New England Aquarium North State Foundation Greg & Laura Nichols OBX Bank/Monarch Bank Ocean Foundation Olympus Dive Center Outer Banks Community Foundation Outer Banks Dive Center Bill & Connie Parker PaverScape Designs Pennymen Group Charles & Mary C. Pierce Pizza Huts of Eastern NC Gail Plucker

Joseph & Angela Sample David & Magdalena Scholle Wayne & Amy Schriever Scuba-Tech SeaWitch Motel & Café Wes & Jacque Seegars Jon & Karen Segal Jim, Judy & Robin Serne Sharkbites Snack Bar SoundBank Alexander & Jennifer Speal Strata Solar Tedder Family Tennessee Aquarium Towboat US – Oregon Inlet, NC Karl Von Der Heyden The Walker Family – Matt, Nicole, Madison, Peyton & Oscar John & Susie Ward Mary C. Watzin Weston Foundation David & Judy Whichard Jordy & Ann Whichard Ray & Linda White Rick & Myrna Willetts Hope Williams & Tom Bersuder Wooten & Batchelor Families Bill & Lyndia Wright James Gordon Wright Peter & Darlene Young

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CAROLINA GOPHER FROGS CONSERVATION JUMP START

WAVES TO WATER

Each year the Fort Fisher team provides a boost for the endangered Carolina gopher frog. In late winter, eggs are collected and raised in aquarium care in partnership with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Once the animals grow to froglets they are returned to their natural habitats. This critical work continued despite the aquarium’s public closure in 2020, with more than 490 frogs successfully reared, tagged and released. In the past five years, 2,149 gopher frogs have been released by the aquarium. Once found in 30 areas of our state, these amphibians now exist in only six.

FOTOFX SUPPORTS THE AQUARIUMS

Beach Dive — Scuba divers John McCord of the nearby Coastal Studies Institute (CSI) and Mark Keusenkothen of East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville, swim out to a sandbar just south of Jennette’s Pier to search for a subsurface buoy attached to a chain pile that was deployed as a mooring for upcoming research projects and the Waves to Water Prize competition set to take place in 2022. Corey Adams was also on hand to assist the divers from the beach. He’s the CSI Research Operations Manager; McCord works as the CSI Assistant Director for Public Engagement and Keusenkothen is the ECU Director of Diving and Water Safety.

The Waves to Water Prize is a 5-Stage, $3.3M contest to accelerate technology innovation in wave energy powered desalination systems. These technologies hold the potential to deliver clean water to communities for disaster relief purposes, and to remote communities throughout the globe. Over three years, the prize will provide innovators a pathway from initial concept, to technical design, to prototype, to field testing systems that provide clean, abundant drinking water using only waves as a power source. In the final stage of the prize, these systems will be tested in partnership with the Coastal Studies Institute at Jennette’s Pier.

Over the course of the next 10 years, FotoFX and the Strategic Alliance Group will provide a total of $525,000 to support a number of key Aquarium initiatives. About 80% of the funding will support renovation and new exhibits at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher. The remaining 20% will support staff enrichment and appreciation activities at all three NC Aquarium locations and Jennette’s Pier.

Ever had your photograph taken by the photo vendor at one of our three Aquariums? Then you have interacted with our partners from FotoFX. FotoFX customizes photographs of you and your friends and family with innovative and unique Aquarium-themed backgrounds that are wonderful keepsakes of your visit to the Aquarium. FotoFX also proudly supports the NC Aquariums. In 2020 Dave Tichenor, President of Strategic Alliance Group, the parent company of FotoFX, made one of the largest pledges ever in support of our Aquariums.

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“At FotoFX, our goal is to provide a lasting memory, a priceless snapshot of family, friends, and classmates at the leading attractions in the U.S. Supporting the North Carolina Aquarium Society, is a natural fit for us, as they teach appreciation of our oceans and all of the wonderful wildlife in our waterways, and inspire us to protect this planet for generations to come.” Next time you visit one of the Aquariums, please stop by the FotoFX area for the perfect memento. 11

VISIT NEW OTTER “OLIVE” AT ROANOKE ISLAND

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The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is delighted to invite guests to meet new North American river otter, “Olive.”

Quattlebaum, aquarist. “Olive’s health has improved greatly and after careful observation and review, we feel it’s time for her to meet the aquarium’s visitors!”

Olive has become accustomed to her new home under the careful care of the aquarium’s husbandry and veterinary teams. She is regaining her health and strength after suffering an injury that rendered her nonreleasable in the wild.

Olive can be viewed in the Wild Wetlands gallery most days as she is gradually introduced to her fellow North American River otters, Finn and Banks. Olive’s health and comfort will always remain top priority, so some scheduling flexibility may be needed.

“We’ve been working with her behind the scenes and during non-public hours to acclimate her to her new life and home here at Roanoke Island,” says Connie

Follow the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest on all the animals and programs at the aquarium.

The NC Aquarium Society is on Facebook! Follow or Like our page at facebook.com/NCAquariumSociety

SPONSORSHIP OF ROANOKE ISLAND DIVE PROGRAM HONORS VOLUNTEER BILL KOEBERNICK A sponsorship in the name of Bill Koebernick, who passed away in April 2020, will support the volunteer dive program at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Koebernick was  a dedicated member of the dive program for more than two decades.   In Bill’s honor, the program will be renamed the “Bill Koebernick Volunteer Dive Program,” and two plaques will be dedicated in his memory: one near the viewing area of the Graveyard of the Atlantic Gallery where he dove often, and one in the dive equipment area where volunteers and staff prepare to dive.   “It is our honor to name the volunteer dive program in memory of Bill Koebernick,” said Aquarium Director Larry Warner. “His commitment to two decades of volunteer dive service and his passion for our programs, animals and staff were incomparable.  His name at our Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit will remind us warmly of what he meant to the program and staff here at Roanoke Island.”

 “Bill always came to the aquarium with a smile and he passed on that smile wherever he went,” said Dive Safety Officer Shawn Harper.  “This generous sponsorship will breathe new life into how we all experience the aquarium and in turn pass on the joy it creates to others, just as Bill did for decades and will continue to do in-memory for the future.”   Following a memorial service for Bill on July 14, his father Bernie Koebernick spoke to the Aquarium about Bill’s service there.

  “Bill was very proud of his time volunteering for 20 years and he really enjoyed the time he spent at the aquarium,” he said.    For more information about the North Carolina Aquarium Society, go to ncaquariumsociety.com. To learn more about volunteering, including with the Bill Koebernick Volunteer Dive Program, go to ncaquariums. com/Roanoke-island-volunteer.

The sponsorship, received through the North Carolina Aquarium Society – the nonprofit fundraising arm of the NC Aquariums – will allow the Aquarium to make technological enhancements to the gallery that will increase guest interaction and appreciation of the animals and habitat there. Sponsorship donations were spearheaded by Bill’s employer, Tim Cafferty at Outer Banks Blue. 13

2020 DONORS $500+ Abruzzo’s Pizza Tootsie Adderholdt Deborah Albert Greg Allen Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant Arthur L. & Elaine V. Johnson Foundation Association of Zoos and Aquariums Atlantis Lodge Barbara Ayars Kari Bakus Marvin & Cynthia Barnes Barrier Island Boats BeachCare Urgent & Family Medical Center Colleen S. Benner William & Marianne Berry Myra Best Best Logistics Group Biggs Cadillac, Buick, GMC Truck Mary Craig & Brick Brown Charlton & Peg Burns Tim Cafferty - In Memory of Bill Koebernick Dan Cameron Family Foundation Cape Fear Pharmacy Carteret Health Care

Remi Hueckel

Christopher Davis

Igoe Creative

Judith Davis

Island Automation PC

Michael DeNude

Amber Isoldi

Dino Don Company

Scott & Susan Jackson

Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation

Kjel Johnson

Ashley Dozier Ferrell Drewry Duke Energy Foundation William C. Ethridge Foundation Charles & Becky Evans Ashe B. Exum FotoFX Michael Frasketi Full Send Racing Robyn R. Gatling George Smedes Poyner Foundation

Carol Jones Lindsay Kallam Art & Alice Keeney Kellogg Supply Company Patrick & Kathryn Kelly Lisa Kemplin Scott Kennedy Jason & Erica Kesler Shone Kirkpatrick Melanie Kocsis Bernie Koebernick - In Memory of Bill Koebernick

Norah & Eric Gerz

Mary Katherine Lawrence & Art Klose

Kathleen Gibbs

Barbara Lehigh

Goodnight Educational Foundation

Steve Marston

Grady-White Boats

Bob & Carol Mattocks

Art & Carolyn Green

James & Betty Mast

Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation

Leigh & Craig Sudbrink

Twiddy & Company Family

Kayla White

Henry F. Nelson

Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q

Buck Suiter Family

Goody Tyler

William Wickliffe

New Knowledge Organization

Christina Sola

Nancy F. Sykes

Sharon VanDevander

Wild Republic

Philip Nibali

Rick Soles Property Management

Bill & Mary Hannah Taft

John & Sherrie Waddill

Barbara & Jim Williams

John E. Tantum, Attorney at Law

Wallcrawls

Hope Williams & Tom Bersuder

George & Suzanne Taylor

John & Susie Ward

Kevin & Stacia Wittkamp

David L. Ward, Jr.

David & Sydney Womack

Mary C. Watzin

Chuck & Connie Wright

Krystal & William Webb

James Gordon Wright

Helen Lambeth Wells

Shirley & Peter Young - In Memory of Darlene Young

NC GlaxoSmithKline Foundation

Greg & Laura Nichols North Carolina Community Foundation

Sound Choice Insurance

North State Foundation

Alexander & Jennifer Speal

The Hartford - In Honor of Adrienne Moore

Betsy & Mitch Oakley

Holly Steele

Transportation Impact

Dana O’Donovan

Robert Stickney, Jr.

Triad Foundation

Linda & Jeremy Ogden

Mary Beth & Robert Styers

Tri-Tech Service Company

Outer Banks Community Foundation Outer Banks Woman’s Club Alyssa Palumbo Jane Smith Patterson

ONLINE GIFT SHOP NOW OPEN

Suzanne & Brian Pecheles Wes & Stewart Perry Charles & Mary C. Pierce Port City Land Surveying Greg Proctor Cindi Reese Joy Rhodes

Grooms Equipment

David & Lesley McAdams – McAdams Foundation

Rolland Riley

Kathleen Gundersen

Rebecca & John McCabe

Brian & Michelle Roderick

Bee & Thomas Gwynn

Erin McKenzie

Sally Johns Design

Rosemary Haas - In Memory of Bill Koebernick

Margo McKnight

Sam & Omie’s Restaurant

John Hackney Agency

Mike & Mary McNiel

Joseph & Angela Sample

Midway Enterprises

Wayne & Amy Schriever Wes & Jacque Seegars Jon & Karen Segal

Thomas & Susan Hackney

Jordy & Ann Whichard

Jay S. Paul

Joseph & Mary Matza

Lena & Brian Greer

Southern Bank Foundation

Jeanne Osso

Lucille M. Chaveas – In Memory of Kevin W. Yurecka

Claire & Charles Harraghy

The Brent Milgrom Family Foundation

Allan & Nancy Harvin

Minnesota Zoo Foundation

Coastal Carolina Neuropsychiatric Center

Jessica Hazlett

Susan Moffat-Thomas Donna Moffitt

Janet Shafer - In Memory of Carl Shafer

Coastal Countertops & Tile

Ella Ann L. & Frank B. Holding Foundation Olivia Holding

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Bethany Sharpe

Steve & Louise Coggins

Hyun Hong

Adrienne Moore

Adam & Sarah Shay

Erin Coleman

Skylight Specialists

The Corcoran Family

Robin L. Hook

Ron Nakamoto

Richard & Linda Howell

Billie-Jo & Ronald Sloan

Drew & Vickey Covert

NEST – Network for Endangered Sea Turtles

Carteret Landing

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Dawson Signature Management

Jason & Melody Seely

Ronnie & Jody Sloan

Our online gift shop is open! When the pandemic forced the temporary closure of the Aquariums and Jennette’s Pier, the Aquarium Society acted to create a new online gift shop. We have lots of great sustainable toys and

housewares, masks, educational gifts, t-shirts, hats, jewelry, plush toys, books, magnets, and so much more. Check it out at ncaquariumsociety.com/shop-online. 15

FORT FISHER RENOVATIONS

Guests can spot the animals from multiple viewing windows, including a child-sized crawl-in bubble and underwater perspectives. Visitors can engage with the otters by activating pop-up water jets inside the habitat. Construction began on “Otters on the Edge” in January 2020 and continued throughout the pandemic closure. The project was originally planned to begin in January 2019, but the impact of Hurricane Florence on southeastern North Carolina postponed the start date. The North Carolina Aquarium Society, aquarium receipts and private donations, including a significant gift from David and Sydney Womack, funded the $1.8 million build. The new otter family was born and raised in human care as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan. The animals previously lived at the Columbus Zoo. Asian small-clawed otters are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss, loss of prey species and exploitation. This new habitat will allow staff to share the critical conservation story of Asian small-clawed otters. MAVERICK

OTTERS ON THE EDGE The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher welcomed a family of Asian small-clawed otters in 2020. Asta, Oscar, Tritan and Ray reside in a new 3,000 square foot habitat “Otters on the Edge” completed in December. The renovation of space changed the landscape of the aquarium’s Freshwater Conservatory significantly, with the expansive design focused on the health and well-being of the animals. The otters roam and play among a stream, multiple pools, a waterfall, log slide and dens for resting. “Otters on the Edge” also includes areas for multiple family groups and behindthe-scenes care areas.

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Maverick the rescued bald eagle landed in a new outdoor habitat at Fort Fisher in 2020. Staff constructed the bird’s new home in a natural area along the aquarium’s garden path. This space was designed with Maverick’s needs and abilities considered. A running stream provides options for natural bathing behaviors. Logs and limbs offer safe perching options. Night mews provide overnight protection. Previously cared for indoors in the Freshwater Conservatory, Maverick now spends his days in the open-air space. ROOF AND FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM A $2.3 million roof and fire suppression replacement project at Fort Fisher began in November 2019 and was completed in July 2020. Both the roof panels and sprinkler system were original to the Freshwater Conservatory built in 2002 and were compromised by the corrosive salt and moisture-rich environment of the aquarium’s location. The conservatory now offers a bright and welcoming environment for guests with the natural light restored for thriving habitat for plants and animals as originally designed.

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MARK JOYNER EDUCATION INTERNSHIP Aquarium Society Executive Vice President Mark Joyner retired in September 2020 following a 42-year career of service to the North Carolina Aquariums. Mark began his career as an educator at the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium and has played a key role in many of the Aquariums’ programs and projects through the years. In honor of Mark on the occasion of his retirement, the Aquarium Society Board of Directors has created a special fund in his name. Board Member Dr. Mary Katherine Lawrence helped launch the fund that has grown to $50,000 through support from other members of the Aquarium Society Board. In consultation with Aquarium leadership, the Mark Joyner Education Internship has been established with this funding. This is a fitting tribute to Mark who always considered himself an educator first. The fund will support an education intern position each summer that will rotate annually among the three Aquariums and Jennette’s Pier. Interested college students can learn more about this competitive internship and other opportunities through postings on the jobs board at ncaquariums.com.

COIN COLLECTION In a time when the nation’s supply chain and circulation of coins has disrupted the way many people look at spending cash, one North Carolina aquarium added 100 gallons of change back into the system and struck a social media sensation with a Facebook post that garnered more than 2,000 comments and 1,000 shares. The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores had no idea what kind of commotion would come from waterfall wishes and a call to guess how much change was actually found. Drumroll please … there was $8,563.71 in pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters. One Facebook patron’s guess was short by $1.71 with $8,562. This story also attracted attention from national news media outlets, including CNN and NPR.

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AQUARIUMS BECOME KULTURE CITY CERTIFIED with staff committed to providing a positive experience for all guests in the exhibit areas, programs and activities.

Aquariums have been described as sublime places. Yet, someone living with sensory issues may find the unexpected sights and experiences, dim lighting and, at times, large crowds challenging. KultureCity, a non-profit organization devoted to sensory accessibility and acceptance, has certified each of the North Carolina Aquariums as sensory inclusive facilities,

Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards (produced in conjunction with Boardmaker) and weighted lap pads will be available to all guests at the aquarium who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Additionally, there are dedicated quiet areas for those who may need a quieter and more secure setting. Prior to visiting, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory features are available and where to access them. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all visitors, including those with sensory needs.

BECOME A SEA TURTLE STAR! Help support sea turtle conservation and the STAR (Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation) Center at the NC Aquarium Roanoke Island. All sea turtles are endangered or threatened. Many factors have contributed to their population decline including development on nesting beaches, plastics in the ocean and over hunting. Five of seven sea turtle species live in North Carolina waters, including the loggerhead, green, hawksbill, Kemp’s ridley and leatherback. With a tax-deductible contribution of $350, $500, or $1,000, donors can support our critical work in caring for sick, injured, or stranded sea turtles. Sea Turtle STARs donors will be recognized with large turtle-shaped tiles to be displayed on the wall leading into the STAR Center at Roanoke Island. With your contribution, you may choose your tile color: blue, teal, or green. You may also choose the wording of your personalized tile, add your own name, or honor or remember a loved one. A replica of your tile is available for an additional donation of $100. Tiles may be purchased online (ncaquariumsociety.com/seaturtle-stars), through Visitor Services at the NC Aquarium Roanoke Island, or by calling us at 1-800832-FISH (3474).

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PARK AND LEARN A newly launched North Carolina initiative now provides free wireless internet access at all four locations thanks to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR). These new high-speed WiFi devices were installed in the parking lots of the attractions as part of the state’s NC Student Connect Park and Learn program to help our neighbors and local students connect to the internet. The directors of each state facility were pleased with the new service. “It’s important to be as supportive as we can at a time when students need resources during this pandemic,” said Larry Warner. “The North Carolina Aquariums are delighted to act as a WiFi resource location as part of this great project.”

COVID-19 AND WISHES FOR FISHES Pier Director Mike Remige agreed. “This is exactly why Jennette’s Pier is here, to help educate the public,” he said. “Anything we can do to provide educational opportunities to the public, it’s part of our mission.” The initiative is a partnership between DNCR and Gov. Cooper’s Hometown Strong program designed to address internet connectivity gaps in rural areas of North Carolina. The program is adding free public Wi-Fi to more than 400 sites across the state, including state parks and historic sites, as well as local libraries, to provide free high-speed internet to students for remote learning. Just look for the blue and gold Student Connect placards.

Z. SMITH REYNOLDS FOUNDATION HONORS FOUNDING SOCIETY BOARD CHAIR JANE SMITH PATTERSON In honor of former and now Life Trustee Jane Smith Patterson’s years of dedicated service to the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, Trustees of the Foundation have awarded $100,000 to the NC Aquarium Society. Patterson served the foundation for more than 37 years, lending significant support to public policy, environmental, and educational platforms.

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Patterson designated the Aquarium Society as a recipient for her honorarium. With this grant, the Aquarium Society has created the Patterson-Williams Legacy Fund in support of ocean education for Title I schools through the Aquarium Scholars program. The fund is named in honor of Jane Smith Patterson, who was the NC Aquarium Society’s Founding Board Chair, and incoming Aquarium Society Board Chair Hope Williams. “Jane’s leadership was critically important to the very origins of the North Carolina Aquariums more than forty years ago,” said Jay Barnes, President and CEO of the Aquarium Society.  “As Secretary of the Department of Administration, she made sure they received critical funding to operate. Then, knowing they would need more than state resources to flourish, she helped establish the nonprofit Aquarium Society and became our founding chair. Jane’s vision has helped our Aquariums become the world-class institutions they are today.”

COVID-19 has had a dire impact on aquariums and zoos worldwide. Like many other organizations, the North Carolina Aquariums were closed to the public for nearly six months, through the spring and summer of 2020, due to the pandemic crisis. This challenging situation resulted in the loss of more than $12 million in revenue for the NC Aquariums and NC Aquarium Society. Yet, dedicated animal care never stopped–not then, not now. Our team continued to feed, care for and provide medical attention to our more than 7,500 animals every single day.

Those lost funds are crucial to support critical conservation efforts, new animal habitats, engaging educational programs, important facility upkeep and expert animal care. You can help ensure our exceptional work continues through your tax-deductible gift to our Wishes for Fishes Campaign. PLEASE HELP SUPPORT THE NC AQUARIUMS SO WE CAN CONTINUE TO CREATE CONNECTIONS TO NATURE, SAVE SPECIES AND CARE FOR ANIMALS. To contribute to our Wishes for Fishes campaign, go to

ncaquariumsociety.com/wishes-for-fishes

or call us at 1-800-832-FISH (3474).

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JENNETTE’S PIER In May 2021, Jennette’s Pier celebrates its 10year anniversary since reopening in 2011, as part of the North Carolina Aquariums division. Known as “the place to be” in Nags Head during the summer season, anglers catch a wide variety of fish, while sightseers can watch brown pelicans overhead or bottlenose dolphins swimming in the sea.

OFFSHORE CLUB ($1000 Anually) A Touch of Glass Tootsie Adderholdt Advance Signs & Service Deborah Albert American Chemistry Council Aon – Rebecca McCabe Association of Zoos & Aquariums Atlantic Strategies Group Joseph & Missy Balleydier Marvin & Cynthia Barnes Harold H. Bate Foundation

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A.C. & Dot Hall Hanover Pediatrics

Surrounded by beautiful, clean beaches, the pier’s public beach access draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from near and far. Jennette’s Pier has emerged as a “must-see” place for schools to visit on the coast. In the past decade, they’ve averaged around 8,000 to 10,000 North Carolina students a year. Pier staff also keep busy with two important conservation organizations — the Marine Mammal Stranding Network and the Responsible Pier Initiative, which promises to help protect sea turtles.

Claire & Charles Harraghy Allan & Nancy Harvin Ella Ann L. & Frank B. Holding Foundation

Remi Hueckel Igoe Creative The Ivy Cottage

Best Logistics Group

Kay & Ken Chalk

William C. Ethridge Foundation

Art & Alice Keeney

Biggs Cadillac, Buick, GMC Truck

Lucille M. Chaveas – In Memory of Kevin W. Yurecka

Charles & Becky Evans

Kellogg Supply Company

Catherine Everett

Betsy Blackwell & John Watson

Ashe B. Exum

Frank L. Block

Chesnutt, Clemmons & Peacock, PA

Kelly’s Restaurant Patrick & Kathryn Kelly

Bonzer Shack Bar & Grill

Marc & Sissy Chesnutt

Dawn Bourne

Coastal Carolina Neuropsychiatric Center

Mary Craig & Brick Brown R.A. Bryan Foundation Charlton & Peg Burns William C. Butler Tim Cafferty - In Memory of Bill Koebernick

Tracy B. Bayne

Dan Cameron Family Foundation

Bayside Body Shop

The Cannon Foundation

Beach Bagels

Cape Fear Garden Club

Bembridge Insurance Agencies

Carolina Beach Jeep Go Topless

Bill & Georgia Belk

Carteret Health Care

Jonathan & Gail Berry

Carteret Landing

William & Marianne Berry

CB Sub Shop

The Corcoran Family Drew & Vickey Covert Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority Dairy Queen Judith Davis Dino Don Company Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation Lauren Donnachie Ashley Dozier – In Memory of Graham Dozier Duke Energy Foundation

Robyn R. Gatling Norah & Eric Gerz

Suzanne & Brian Pecheles M. Peebles & Avery Harrison

John E. Tantum, Attorney at Law

Pennymen Group

George & Suzanne Taylor

Wes & Stewart Perry

Transportation Impact

Walter & Pam Phillips

Triad Foundation

Charles & Mary C. Pierce

Twiddy & Company Family

Edythe Poyner & Steve Williams

Goody Tyler

Minnesota Zoo Foundation

Greg Proctor

John & Sherrie Waddill

Susan Moffat-Thomas

Quality Landscape

Gary L. Wagner

Donna Moffitt

Chuck & Bonnie Revelle

Wallcrawls

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Loren M. Rogers

Adrienne Moore

The Rotary Club of Kinston

The Walker Family – Matt, Nicole, Madison, Peyton & Oscar

Ron Nakamoto

Sally Johns Design

Walters Family Foundation

NC 529 College Savings Program

Joseph & Angela Sample

David L. Ward, Jr.

Carl & Leigh Seager

John & Susie Ward

NC GlaxoSmithKline Foundation

Wes & Jacque Seegars

Mary C. Watzin

New Knowledge Organization

Jason & Melody Seely

Wave Foundation

Jon & Karen Segal

Krystal & William Webb

Janet Shafer - In Memory of Carl Shafer

Jane Webster

Sharkbites Snack Bar

Wells Fargo Foundation

Erin McKenzie Margo McKnight

Richard Howell

Emerald Isle Realty

Dick & Billie Futrell

Bill & Mary Hannah Taft

Allan C. & Margaret L. Mims Charitable Trust

Chadsworth Columns

Sally & Alan Cone

Jay S. Paul

Sam & Kim McConkey

The Brent Milgrom Family Foundation

Myra Best

Branz Technologies

Overton S. Suiter, Jr.

Hope from Helen – Jennifer D. Butler

Arthur L. & Elaine V. Johnson Foundation

Full Send Racing

Perry Patterson & Joel Leander

Olivia Holding

Jersey Mike’s Subs Carolina Beach

Michael Frasketi

Buck Suiter Family

Mike & Mary McNiel

Scott & Susan Jackson

FotoFX – Dave Tichenor

Jane Smith Patterson

Charles A. McCawley – In Memory of Mercy & Sam McCawley

Lisa Kemplin Roger Kemble Bernie Koebernick - In Memory of Bill Koebernick Mary Katherine Lawrence & Art Klose

Henry F. Nelson NEST – Network for Endangered Sea Turtles Greg & Laura Nichols North Carolina Community Foundation North State Foundation

Adam & Sarah Shay Wayne & Amy Schriever Skylight Specialists

Goodnight Educational Foundation

Barbara Lehigh

Grady-White Boats

Alex & Carolyn MacFadyen

Art & Carolyn Green Green Sheep Water

MAMEA – Mid-Atlantic Marine Education Association

Lena & Brian Greer

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

David O’Loughlin Family

Bee & Thomas Gwynn

James & Betty Mast

Jeanne Osso

Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q

Rosemary Haas - In Memory of Bill Koebernick

Bob & Carol Mattocks

Ortega’z Grill

Southern Bank Foundation

Joseph & Mary Matza

Outdoor Lighting of Wilmington

Alexander & Jennifer Speal

John Hackney Agency

David & Lesley McAdams McAdams Foundation

Outer Banks Community Foundation

Debra Stewart & Edwin Speas

Rebecca & John McCabe

The Outer Banks Hospital

Leigh & Craig Sudbrink

Thomas & Susan Hackney

Henry & Linda MacDonald

Betsy & Mitch Oakley Dana O’Donovan Linda & Jeremy Ogden Omega Sports

Billie-Jo & Ronald Sloan Ronnie & Jody Sloan George Smedes Poyner Foundation Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation

Mary Beth & Robert Styers

Helen Lambeth Wells Jordy & Ann Whichard Julian White Rawl William Wickliffe Wild Republic Will You Escape the OBX Rick & Myrna Willetts Barbara & Jim Williams Hope Williams & Tom Bersuder Willis Cable Construction Kevin & Stacia Wittkamp David & Sydney Womack Chuck & Connie Wright Elizabeth Wright & F. Mandel

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BUSINESS LEADER ($500 Anually) Abruzzo’s Pizza Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant Atlantic Elevators Atlantis Lodge BeachCare Urgent & Family Medical Center Cape Fear Pharmacy Capital Ready Mix Coastal Business Development Coastal Countertops & Tile

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PA Stoeber-Enof EA Services Company

Linda Rike Real Estate

Southern Shores Realty

Robinson & Stith Insurance

The STEM Labs

Unique Perspective Window Coverings

Paws & Claws Animal Hospital

Rocky Top Catering

StormPro Consultants

Uptown Properties

SAGA Realty & Construction

Studio Three Architects

Victory Chrysler Dodge Jeep

Holiday Inn Express

Paynter Security Consulting Group

Suburban Electric Services

Walter Davis Enterprises LLC

CB Warrior Kids

The Holiday Trav-L-Park Resort

Pleasant Farm & Garden

Sally Johns Design

Sun Realty

Doug & Mary Weaver

Chadsworth Columns

Horns to Halos Dog Training

Potter’s Seafood

The Salt Box Café Saltwater Metals

SweetSip

Wiedner Water Works Inc.

Clancy & Theys Construction

Intracoastal Realty Corporation

Prawno

Timberlands Unlimited

Al Williams Properties

Island Essentials

Ram Rent-All

Top Tier Computer Services

Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill

Rick Soles Property Management

Williams Hardware

Tri-Tech Service Company

Christopher Clark & Associates, DDS

ProGreen Turf & Landscape

Seaglass Training

Wilmington Eye

ClinLab Consulting

Johnson Family Dentistry

ReBath of Wilson

Town of Indian Beach

SoundBank

Coastal Business Development

Kellogg Supply Company

The Reel Outdoors

Tripps Pressure Washing

Wilmington Police Recreation Association

SoundSide Restaurant

Coastal Carolina Orthodontics

Ryan Kerlin Painting

Coastal Carolina Regional Airport Coastal Dentistry

Kirkman, Whitford, Brady, Berryman & Gordon, PA/ Attorneys at Law

Comprehensive Dental Center

Kitty Hawk Kites

Conphalt

Kurtis Chevrolet

Copper Rose Tattoo

Lookout Ford

Crossbridge Financial Group

Lower Cape Fear Hospice

D-Rex Pharmacy

Mashburn Appraisal Group

Dare County Tourism Board

Matchmaker Logistics

Davies Contracting

Charles K. McCotter, Jr.,

Sam & Omie’s Restaurant

The Cameron Report

Grants Creek Nursery

SeaSide Dentistry

Carolina Designs Realty

Gubbs Vending

Cindi N. Smith Realty

Carolina Pain Center

Sound Choice Insurance

Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative

James Himes & Wendy Himes Lutz

Stan White Realty & Construction., Inc. Sun Realty John Tantum, Attorney at Law, PA

BUSINESS MEMBER

Comprehensive Rehabilitation & Pain Specialists

($300 Anually)

Dawson Signature Management

101 Mobility

FlanneryBuilt General Construction

Ace Marine Rigging & Supply

Grooms Equipment

Alert Construction

Infinity Custom Cabinets

Anderson Heating & Cooling

Island Automation PC

Austin Fish Company

W.M. Jordan Company

Autumn Care of Myrtle Grove

Lisa’s Pizzeria

Avian and Exotic Animal Care

Malvin Riggins & Company

B&M Roofing Contractors

Mama Kwan’s Grill & Tiki Bar Mann Custom Boats

Barbour Brothers Contruction, Inc.

MCO Transport

Basnight’s Lone Cedar Café

Midway Enterprises

Beaches-n-Cream

The Brent Milgrom Family Foundation

Bee Here Now

Mt. Olive Pickle Company

bioMONTR Labs

Nance’s, Inc. Charles Nash, DDS PA

Bluewater Real Estate and Vacation Rentals

Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar

Adventure Wildlife Service

Big Sky Design

DFS Pharma

Attorney at Law

DLK Repair Corporation

McFadyen Engineers

Donna M. Gentry DDS

MedSource Pharmacy

Dorothy Kirtley Real Estate

Modern Exterminating Company

Down Under Divers Club El Gato Pelon Elite Spray Foam Systems LLC Emerald Isle Realty Fast Track Leadership, Inc.

Moeller, PA Mollie A. Fearing & Associates James E. Moore Insurance Agency

Finch and Company

MSOC Health - Management Service On Call

Boeck Chiropractic Clinic

First Carolina Cable Inc.

Mutiny Bay Adventure Golf

Plus Commications

Brandi’s Diner

First Flight Adventure Park

Mystic Aquarium

Port City Land Surveying

Broome’s Unlimited

Foley Contractors

Olde Towne Electric

Rick Soles Property Management

BT Carawan Lawn Care Inc.

Full Throttle Speedway

The Outer Banks Hospital

Burns & Wilcox

Gallaher Management Group

Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

Robert & Mary Beth Styers

Byrd Quality

Graham’s Senior Living Homes

Windjammer Inn

IMAGINATION BAY Swim with a sea turtle, climb on a shark or crawl through a bubble cave in Imagination Bay, the newest addition to the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. The early childhood play area, located across from the giftshop, is intended for exploration by youth up to age six. Enter the area through a beautifully lit coral reef that is flanked by exciting bubble tubes and under a hand-sculpted surfboard sign. The space boasts of soft floors and climb-ons in the shape of a shark, ray and sea turtle. A cave designed by the exhibits team features a bubble wall that has already become a fan favorite. Caretta’s Cove, an exhibit in which an animated sea turtle interacts with children, has moved into this new space as well. Interactive games allow adults and children an opportunity to play together. While the play area is open to the public, some interactive activities remain to be added to the space once all COVID restrictions are lifted. Imagination Bay is sponsored by Grady-White Boats. “Grady-White Boats has a long history of supporting many, many conservation initiatives. An important part of these efforts often includes inspiring future generations to carry on these same values of care and concern for our vital resources,” President Kris Carroll shares. “Sponsoring Imagination Bay presents us with a wonderful opportunity to help demonstrate to today’s youth the significance of healthy waterways and environments, today and in the future, and to continue our legacy of coastal stewardship.” 25

2020 REVENUE & EXPENSES

2020 AQUARIUM SOCIETY

The COVID-19 outbreak significantly affected the NC Aquariums and Aquarium Society’s operations and financial condition for the year 2020. The NC Aquariums closed on March 17, 2020 and remained closed for six months, reopening with restricted capacity on September 14.

2020 AQUARIUMS & JENNETTE’S PIER

REVENUE (ROUNDED) REVENUE (ROUNDED) State Appropriations Admission Receipts Rentals and Events Total Revenue

$8,330,000.00 $5,274,000.00 $694,000.00 $14,298,000.00

Gift Shops Sales Membership Contributions, Grants, & Scholarships Concessions & Other Income Investments, Net NCA Lease for the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores Total Revenue

$724,000.00 $821,000.00 $3,617,000.00 $149,000.00 $214,000.00 $1,798,000.00 $7,323,000.00

EXPENSES (ROUNDED) EXPENSES (ROUNDED) Personnel Services Property, Equipment & Supplies PKS Bond Payment Total Expenses 26

$11,662,000.00 $2,300,000.00 $608,000.00 $1,641,000.00 $16,211,000.00

Aquarium & Pier Support Gift Shops & Costs of Goods Membership Development & Fundraising Management & General Total Expenses

$2,242,000.00 $1,801,000.00 $344,000.00 $188,000.00 $798,000.00 $5,373,000.00 27

North Carolina Aquarium Society 3125 Poplarwood Court, Suite 160 Raleigh, NC 27604

800-832-FISH | www.ncaquariums.com | www.jennettespier.net

This document was published by the NC Aquarium Society.