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 CHARLTON BURNS place. We look forward to seeing you! 2020 Board Chair

2020 2019

109,199 visitors 463,750 visitors

2,892 Students Hosted 24,083 Students Hosted 622 Volunteers 614 Volunteers 6,509 Volunteer Hours 33,499 Volunteer Hours

FORT FISHER

100,895 visitors 355,305 visitors

1,669 Students Hosted 23,463 Students Hosted 813 Volunteers 278 Volunteers 5,478 Volunteer Hours 20,089 Volunteer Hours PINE KNOLL SHORES

63,918 visitors 290,863 visitors

1,389 Students Hosted 11,072 Students Hosted 476 Volunteers 175 Volunteers 5,011 Volunteer Hours 12,018 Volunteer Hours ROANOKE ISLAND

112,682 visitors 178,912 visitors

0 Students Hosted >10,000 Students Hosted 0 Volunteers 7 Volunteers 0 Volunteer Hours 400 Volunteer Hours 2 JENNETTE’S PIER NC AQUARIUM Art Keeney Jon Segal Bill Taft Engelhard, NC New Bern, NC Greenville, NC SOCIETY BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021 Joyce Kohn Adam Shay George W. Taylor Raleigh, NC Wilmington, NC Wilmington, NC Hope Williams, Chair Raleigh, NC Mary K. Lawrence Ronnie Sloan Ray White Newport, NC Manteo, NC Nags Head, NC Deborah Albert Wilmington, NC Bob Mattocks Clark Twiddy David Womack New Bern, NC Kitty Hawk, NC Greenville, NC Bill Belk Charlotte, NC Susan Moffat-Thomas John Ward John Jordan (deceased) New Bern, NC New Bern, NC Raleigh, NC Bill Berry Charlotte, NC Rebecca McCabe Mary C. Watzin Darlene Young (deceased) Cary, NC Raleigh, NC Greensboro, NC Myra Best Raleigh, NC Adrienne Moore Jordy Whichard Wilmington, NC Greenville, NC AQUARIUM Brick Brown SOCIETY STAFF Raleigh, NC Greg Nichols Rick Willetts Goldsboro, NC Wilmington, NC Jay Barnes, Charlton Burns President & CEO Morehead City, NC Dana O’Donovan Reid Wilson Raleigh, NC Wilmington, NC Raleigh, NC Sissy Chesnutt Jim Mulvey, New Bern, NC Betsy Oakley Director of Development Greensboro, NC BOARD Wendell, NC Steve Coggins EMERITI Wilmington, NC Jane Smith Patterson Heather Flynt, Chapel Hill, NC Marvin L. Barnes Controller Drew Covert Durham, NC Wake Forest, NC Mt. Olive, NC Suzanne Pecheles Greenville, NC Frank L. Block Barbara Bayer, Charles Evans Wrightsville Beach, NC Director of Retail Manteo, NC Wes Perry Raleigh, NC Kinston, NC Alice Bost Jacquie Gilliam Greenville, NC AQUARIUM Greensboro, NC Charles Pierce Ahoskie, NC Dick Futrell DIVISION STAFF Carolyn Green Morehead City, NC Greensboro, NC Edythe Poyner Maylon White, Director Raleigh, NC Jean Kilgore NC Aquariums Division Allan B. Harvin Raleigh, NC Goldsboro, NC Greg Proctor Hap Fatzinger, Director Wilmington, NC Alex MacFadyen NC Aquarium Fort Fisher Camilla Herlevich Raleigh, NC Wilmington, NC Chuck Revelle Liz Baird, Director Murfreesboro, NC Connie Parker NC Aquarium Pine Knoll Shores Tom Hackney Wilmington, NC Wilson, NC Bruce Roberts Larry Warner, Director Brevard, NC Walter Phillips NC Aquarium Roanoke Island Olivia Holding Newport, NC Raleigh, NC Wes Seegars Mike Remige, Director Goldsboro, NC Buck Suiter Jennette’s Pier Nags Head Tess Judge Ahoskie, NC Kitty Hawk, NC

3 COVID-19 IMPACT

While many people in the state were home caring for schedules to assist with the care of animals and their families, the North Carolina Aquariums continued maintenance of each aquarium. Other staff members caring for theirs. Despite closing the doors to the public began work from home to help with ongoing operations. to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in March 2020, staff provided continuous care for thousands of animals. “Our dedicated team members adapted to new safety Additionally, teams at each site, Fort Fisher, Pine Knoll protocols like social distancing and frequent disinfection, Shores, Roanoke Island and Jennette’s Pier, explored and providing animal care seven days a week and continuing implemented new ways to engage with those observing critical operations. Some staff stepped into new roles on Governor Roy Cooper’s stay-at-home orders. our Essential Operations Teams,” said Hap Fatzinger, Director of North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. “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 Normally, Joanna Zazzali, Visitors Services Coordinator, improvements to the aquarium’s facility,” said Allen manages ticketing, admissions and security at Fort McDowell, associate director of the Aquarium on Fisher. During the closure, she served on Fort Fisher’s Roanoke Island. “Upgrading systems such as our chillers, Essential Operations Team, with her days filled assisting boilers, and air handlers ensures the animals’ habitats are trained husbandry staff in caring for the animals, from safely maintained within ideal environmental conditions.” prepping food for sea turtles to hand feeding stingrays. “We also made improvements to our electrical systems “I appreciate more than ever before all that is required to to improve our emergency capabilities in the future,” care for the animals living at the aquariums,” said Zazzali. McDowell said. “Throughout this, staff maintained “It’s hard work but I’m so happy I was able to contribute thorough cleaning and sterilization of all surfaces for the in this way.” 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.

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.”

Most importantly, however, he and the rest of the staff While some staff took on new roles, others learned new were ready for visitors to return. ways to continue conducting their daily responsibilities from home, like producing educational videos posted on Fortunately, Jennette’s Pier did not have to wait as long. the aquariums’ and pier’s social media sites. After remaining closed through the first week of June, the popular attraction at Whalebone Junction reopened “This was a unique time but also fun and allowed us to its wooden gates to anglers and walkers on June 8, 2020. be creative. It has provided an opportunity to not only connect with individuals who normally come to the North Carolina’s three aquariums reopened to the public aquarium, but we were able to share with people around on Monday, Sept. 14, 2020. The reopening came after the world. Even though we were apart we were still able North Carolina moved into Phase 2.5 of its reopening to connect and share what we love – our love of animals plan during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and other and the environment,” said Nicole Warren, an educator museums across the state also began welcoming visitors and bird trainer with the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. again. “This is going to make us better in the long run.” “We were excited to be able to do what we do best, which Aquarium staff from across the division worked to is share the truly astounding animals and habitats we maintain the buildings and grounds. care for,” said Maylon White, North Carolina Aquariums director. “The public is a key component in our mission of “We made the best out of a difficult situation education and inspiration, and we were so happy to have by continuing to maintain and provide needed them back.”

5 AQUARIUM SCHOLARS ADAPTS TO CONTINUE SERVING STUDENTS

Aquarium Scholars is a partnership between the many schools being NC Aquariums, our state’s public schools, and the shifted to this mode of Aquarium Society through which we provide students reaching students. Using at Title I schools with access to the NC Aquariums’ Aquarium Scholars unique STEM-based environmental education and funding, our educators conservation programs. Typically, teachers from Title I created a modular online schools apply for Aquarium Scholars funding for class learning experience field trips to one of our three aquariums or Jennette’s where each Aquarium Pier, or for Aquarium outreach in which our educators location explores topics bring programs to schools. This year, as a result of of expertise at their the COVID-19 pandemic, the Aquariums’ education facilities. Each module teams created additional, dynamic, virtual learning consists of videos, related activities, and curriculum, and opportunities to help create a partnership with Aquarium include the option for add-ons such as personal online Scholars schools through online learning. interactions with an educator.

Through this new online content, thousands of students To date, more than a dozen corporations and foundations from Title I schools, especially those from rural counties, have signed on as major sponsors of the effort. For will gain exposure to the wonders of North Carolina’s more information, deadlines, and the online application, aquatic life. teachers can visit ncaquariums.com. Start by selecting the closest or preferred location, then fill out a grant Online learning has achieved a new importance with application (available late summer 2021). the development of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 6 AQUARIUM SCHOLARS OUTCOMES SPRING 2018 - SPRING 2021

73 Counties Served

Counties that have not yet participated

2020 - 2021 AQUARIUM total outcomes for the SCHOLAR OUTCOMES program since 2018

Number of Students Served Number of Students Served 13k+ 45k+

Total Grants Awarded $61k+ Total Grants Awarded $318k+

Number of Grants Awarded 209 Number of Grants Awarded 564

Field Trips 17 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 Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q NC GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation Southern Bank Foundation Grady-White Boats Goodnight Educational Foundation Triad Foundation Wells Fargo Foundation Allan C. and Margaret L. Mims Charitable Walters Family Foundation Trust 100% of Aquarium Society Board of Tetlow and Roy Park Aquarium Legacy Fund Directors Other Individuals George Smedes Poyner Foundation 7 LIFETIME GIVING GRAND Crystal Coast Tourism Bill & Georgia Belk Betsy & Mitch Oakley Development Authority BENEFACTORS Steve Bell OceanReef Duke Energy Foundation Alice Bost David O’Loughlin Family (Gifts of $1 Million Mary Whiting Ewing Foundation R.A. Bryan Foundation The Outer Banks Hospital or More) First Citizens Bank Charlton & Peg Burns Outer Banks Visitors Bureau NC Clean Water Management AJ Fletcher Foundation Carteret County Park Foundation Trust Fund General Federation of Women’s Carteret Health Care Warren & Barbara Perry Clubs of NC NC Waterfront Access & Carteret Publishing Company Wes & Stewart Perry Marine Industry Fund Grady-White Boats Coastal Beverage Company Walter & Pam Phillips Pepsi Bottling Ventures/Pepsico Olivia Holding Dare County Tourism Board Lonnie & Carol Lynn Poole Triad Foundation Bill & Marilyn Hull Tom Davis Fund Buddy & Stu Pope Institute for Museum & Library Emerald Isle Realty Thomas Reese Services BENEFACTORS First National Bank Chuck & Bonnie Revelle Kealy Family Foundation (Gifts of $500,000 - Dick & Billie Futrell Rockett, Burkhead & Winslow Ben & Jean Kilgore $1 Million) A.C. & Dot Hall Safari Club International Mary Katherine Lawrence & Dare County Art Klose Hatteras Yachts Safrit’s Building Supply Bill & Barbara Dobo Bob & Carol Mattocks Ella Ann L. & Frank B. Holding Jason & Melody Seely Foundation Bob & Dot Dobo Percy W. & Elizabeth G. George Smedes Poyner Dominion Energy Charitable Meekins Charitable Trust Arthur & Elaine Johnson Foundation Foundation Foundation NC Coastal Area Management Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N FotoFX - Dave Tichenor Act Art & Alice Keeney Bar -B-Q Bee & Tom Gwynn Nucor Steel Kelly’s Restaurant Southern Bank Foundation NC Association of Outdoor Hank & Jane Smith Patterson Kurtis Chevrolet Buck Suiter Family Advertisers George & Suzanne Taylor Carter & Janie Lambeth Mathew & Maureen Sullivan - In Memory of Eugene Sullivan NC Coastal Recreational Michael & Debbie Thompson Alex & Carolyn MacFadyen Fishing License Program Sunlite Supply Town of Nags Head Sam & Kim McConkey NOAA - National Oceanic & Bill & Mary Hannah Taft Union Concrete Montery Bay Aquarium Atmospheric Administration Time Warner-Connect a Million Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation Munson Aquatic Conservation David & Sydney Womack Exhibit Award Minds National Marine Sanctuary Transportation Impact CONSERVATORS GUARDIANS Foundation Triangle Land Conservancy (Gifts of $25,000 - NC GlaxoSmithKline Twiddy & Company Family (Gifts of $100,000 - $100,000) Foundation Wachovia Foundation $500,000) Anonymous NC State University Sea Grant Gary L. Wagner Anonymous Association of Zoos & NEST – Network for Walters Family Foundation Big Rock Blue Marlin Endangered Sea Turtles Aquariums Krystal & William Webb Tournament New Hanover County Marvin & Cynthia Barnes Wells Fargo Foundation Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Community Harold H. Bate Foundation Yadkin Bank (East Carolina The Cannon Foundation Foundation BB&T Bank, Vintage South Bank) Centura Bank Nutrien Drew & Vickey Covert

8 SPONSORS Marc & Sissy Chesnutt Kitty Hawk Kites PPD Clancy & Theys Construction John & Marian Kutzer Edythe Poyner & Steve Williams (Gifts of $5,000 - Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Landfall Foundation Emily Procter $25,000) Realty Rosie Lasinski Fund Pure Fishing Deborah Albert Community Foundation of Mr. & Mrs. Steve MacCurry RBC Bank Tootsie Adderholdt & Alice Southeastern NC MAMEA – Mid-Atlantic Realty World, The Selling Team, Engel Cooperative Bank for Savings Marine Education Association Llew & Elaine Ambrose Signs The Corcoran Family Susan E. Martin George & Sylvia Rountree, III Association of Zoos & Dairy Queen Ann Maxwell Sally Johns Design Aquariums/Walt Disney Walter Daniels David & Lesley McAdams – Salty Dawg Marina Company Discovery Diving McAdams Foundation Joseph & Angela Sample Atlantic Strategies Group Dive Rite Rebecca & John McCabe Harry & Lila Schiffman Atlantis Lodge Ashley Dozier – In Memory of Margo McKnight David & Magdalena Scholle Casey Ball & Dan Tomlinson Graham Dozier Harvey McNairy Foundation Wayne & Amy Schriever Bembridge Insurance Agencies DuPont Microsoft TechSoup Scuba-Tech Jonathan and Gail Berry Embarq Corporation Minnesota Zoo Foundation SeaWitch Motel & Café William & Marianne Berry William C. Ethridge Foundation Susan Moffat-Thomas Wes & Jacque Seegars Myra Best Charles & Becky Evans Adrienne Moore Jon & Karen Segal Biggs Cadillac, Buick, GMC Ashe B. Exum James E. Moore Insurance Truck Jim, Judy & Robin Serne First Union Foundation Agency Betsy Blackwell & John Watson Sharkbites Snack Bar Florida Aquarium Mt. Olive Pickle Company Frank & Wendy Block SoundBank Jake & Mazie Froelich Mystic Aquarium Marvin & Rebecca Blount Alexander & Jennifer Speal Full Send Racing National Aquarium – Baltimore Bluewater GMAC Strata Solar Georgia Aquarium NC 529 College Savings BMH Architects Tedder Family Goodnight Educational Program Gil Burnett Tennessee Aquarium Foundation NCDENR Office of Tim Cafferty - In Memory of Towboat US – Oregon Inlet, NC Art & Carolyn Green Environmental Education Bill Koebernick Karl Von Der Heyden Lena & Brian Greer New England Aquarium Dan Cameron Family The Walker Family – Matt, John Hackney Agency North State Foundation Foundation Nicole, Madison, Peyton & Thomas & Susan Hackney Greg & Laura Nichols John & Ann Campbell Oscar Ted & Peggy Haigler OBX Bank/Monarch Bank Cape Fear Garden Club John & Susie Ward Allan & Nancy Harvin Ocean Foundation Capital Development Services Mary C. Watzin Cary Hawthorne Olympus Dive Center Carteret County Sportfishing Weston Foundation Outer Banks Community Club Richard & Linda Howell David & Judy Whichard Foundation Carteret-Craven Electric Jonathan & Mary Howes Jordy & Ann Whichard Outer Banks Dive Center Membership Cooperative Igoe Creative Ray & Linda White Bill & Connie Parker Craig Castor Joanna Foundation Rick & Myrna Willetts PaverScape Designs CenturyLink Jay & Karen Johnson Hope Williams & Tom Bersuder Pennymen Group Kay & Ken Chalk Mike & Gree Jones Wooten & Batchelor Families Charles & Mary C. Pierce Lucille M. Chaveas – In Kellogg Supply Company Bill & Lyndia Wright Memory Kevin W. Yurecka Pizza Huts of Eastern NC Roger Kemble James Gordon Wright Cherbec Foundation Gail Plucker Lisa Kemplin Peter & Darlene Young

9 WAVES TO WATER

Beach Dive — Scuba divers John McCord of the nearby The Waves to Water Prize is a 5-Stage, $3.3M contest Coastal Studies Institute (CSI) and Mark Keusenkothen to accelerate technology innovation in wave energy of East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville, powered desalination systems. These technologies hold swim out to a sandbar just south of Jennette’s Pier to the potential to deliver clean water to communities for search for a subsurface buoy attached to a chain pile disaster relief purposes, and to remote communities that was deployed as a mooring for upcoming research throughout the globe. Over three years, the prize will projects and the Waves to Water Prize competition provide innovators a pathway from initial concept, to set to take place in 2022. Corey Adams was also on technical design, to prototype, to field testing systems hand to assist the divers from the beach. He’s the CSI that provide clean, abundant drinking water using only Research Operations Manager; McCord works as the waves as a power source. In the final stage of the prize, CSI Assistant Director for Public Engagement and these systems will be tested in partnership with the Keusenkothen is the ECU Director of Diving and Water Coastal Studies Institute at Jennette’s Pier. Safety.

10 CAROLINA GOPHER FROGS CONSERVATION JUMP START

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

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 “At FotoFX, our goal is to provide a lasting memory, photographs of you and your friends and family with a priceless snapshot of family, friends, and classmates innovative and unique Aquarium-themed backgrounds at the leading attractions in the U.S. Supporting the that are wonderful keepsakes of your visit to the North Carolina Aquarium Society, is a natural fit for us, Aquarium. as they teach appreciation of our oceans and all of the wonderful wildlife in our waterways, and inspire us to FotoFX also proudly supports the NC Aquariums. In protect this planet for generations to come.” 2020 Dave Tichenor, President of Strategic Alliance Group, the parent company of FotoFX, made one of Next time you visit one of the Aquariums, please stop by the largest pledges ever in support of our Aquariums. the FotoFX area for the perfect memento. 11 VISIT NEW OTTER “OLIVE” AT ROANOKE ISLAND

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is Quattlebaum, aquarist. “Olive’s health has improved delighted to invite guests to meet new North American greatly and after careful observation and review, we feel river otter, “Olive.” it’s time for her to meet the aquarium’s visitors!”

Olive has become accustomed to her new home Olive can be viewed in the Wild Wetlands gallery most under the careful care of the aquarium’s husbandry days as she is gradually introduced to her fellow North and veterinary teams. She is regaining her health and American River otters, Finn and Banks. Olive’s health strength after suffering an injury that rendered her non- and comfort will always remain top priority, so some releasable in the wild. scheduling flexibility may be needed.

“We’ve been working with her behind the scenes and Follow the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island during non-public hours to acclimate her to her new on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest on all life and home here at Roanoke Island,” says Connie the animals and programs at the aquarium.

The NC Aquarium Society is on Facebook! Follow or Like our page at facebook.com/NCAquariumSociety 12 SPONSORSHIP OF ROANOKE ISLAND DIVE PROGRAM HONORS VOLUNTEER BILL KOEBERNICK

A sponsorship in the name of “Bill always came to the aquarium with Bill Koebernick, who passed a smile and he passed on that smile away in April 2020, will support wherever he went,” said Dive Safety the volunteer dive program at Officer Shawn Harper. “This generous the North Carolina Aquarium sponsorship will breathe new life into on Roanoke Island. Koebernick how we all experience the aquarium was a dedicated member of the and in turn pass on the joy it creates to dive program for more than two others, just as Bill did for decades and decades. will continue to do in-memory for the future.” In Bill’s honor, the program will be renamed the “Bill Koebernick Following a memorial service for Bill on Volunteer Dive Program,” and July 14, his father Bernie Koebernick two plaques will be dedicated in spoke to the Aquarium about Bill’s his memory: one near the viewing service there. area of the Graveyard of the Atlantic Gallery where he dove often, and one in the dive equipment area where “Bill was very proud of his time volunteering for 20 volunteers and staff prepare to dive. years and he really enjoyed the time he spent at the aquarium,” he said. “It is our honor to name the volunteer dive program in memory of Bill Koebernick,” said Aquarium Director For more information about the North Carolina Larry Warner. “His commitment to two decades of Aquarium Society, go to ncaquariumsociety.com. To volunteer dive service and his passion for our programs, learn more about volunteering, including with the Bill animals and staff were incomparable. His name at our Koebernick Volunteer Dive Program, go to ncaquariums. Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit will remind us warmly com/Roanoke-island-volunteer. of what he meant to the program and staff here at Roanoke Island.”

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 Dawson Signature Management Remi Hueckel NC GlaxoSmithKline Christopher Davis Igoe Creative Foundation $500+ Judith Davis Island Automation PC Henry F. Nelson Abruzzo’s Pizza Michael DeNude Amber Isoldi New Knowledge Organization Tootsie Adderholdt Dino Don Company Scott & Susan Jackson Philip Nibali Deborah Albert Dominion Energy Charitable Kjel Johnson Greg & Laura Nichols Greg Allen Foundation Carol Jones North Carolina Community Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant Foundation Ashley Dozier Lindsay Kallam Arthur L. & Elaine V. Johnson North State Foundation Ferrell Drewry Art & Alice Keeney Foundation Betsy & Mitch Oakley Duke Energy Foundation Kellogg Supply Company Association of Zoos and William C. Ethridge Foundation Dana O’Donovan Aquariums Patrick & Kathryn Kelly Charles & Becky Evans Linda & Jeremy Ogden Atlantis Lodge Lisa Kemplin Ashe B. Exum Jeanne Osso Barbara Ayars Scott Kennedy Outer Banks Community FotoFX Jason & Erica Kesler Kari Bakus Foundation Michael Frasketi Shone Kirkpatrick Marvin & Cynthia Barnes Outer Banks Woman’s Club Full Send Racing Melanie Kocsis Barrier Island Boats Alyssa Palumbo Robyn R. Gatling Bernie Koebernick - In Memory BeachCare Urgent & Family Jane Smith Patterson Medical Center George Smedes Poyner of Bill Koebernick Foundation Jay S. Paul Colleen S. Benner Mary Katherine Lawrence & Art Norah & Eric Gerz Klose Suzanne & Brian Pecheles William & Marianne Berry Kathleen Gibbs Barbara Lehigh Wes & Stewart Perry Myra Best Goodnight Educational Steve Marston Charles & Mary C. Pierce Best Logistics Group Foundation James & Betty Mast Port City Land Surveying Biggs Cadillac, Buick, GMC Grady-White Boats Greg Proctor Truck Bob & Carol Mattocks Art & Carolyn Green Cindi Reese Mary Craig & Brick Brown Joseph & Mary Matza Lena & Brian Greer Joy Rhodes Charlton & Peg Burns David & Lesley McAdams – Grooms Equipment McAdams Foundation Rolland Riley Tim Cafferty - In Memory of Bill Koebernick Kathleen Gundersen Rebecca & John McCabe Brian & Michelle Roderick Dan Cameron Family Bee & Thomas Gwynn Erin McKenzie Sally Johns Design Foundation Rosemary Haas - In Memory of Margo McKnight Sam & Omie’s Restaurant Cape Fear Pharmacy Bill Koebernick Mike & Mary McNiel Joseph & Angela Sample Carteret Health Care John Hackney Agency Midway Enterprises Wayne & Amy Schriever Carteret Landing Thomas & Susan Hackney The Brent Milgrom Family Wes & Jacque Seegars Lucille M. Chaveas – In Claire & Charles Harraghy Foundation Jason & Melody Seely Memory of Kevin W. Yurecka Allan & Nancy Harvin Minnesota Zoo Foundation Jon & Karen Segal Coastal Carolina Jessica Hazlett Susan Moffat-Thomas Janet Shafer - In Memory of Neuropsychiatric Center Ella Ann L. & Frank B. Holding Donna Moffitt Carl Shafer Coastal Countertops & Tile Foundation Monterey Bay Aquarium Bethany Sharpe Steve & Louise Coggins Olivia Holding Adrienne Moore Adam & Sarah Shay Erin Coleman Hyun Hong Ron Nakamoto Skylight Specialists The Corcoran Family Robin L. Hook NEST – Network for Billie-Jo & Ronald Sloan Drew & Vickey Covert Richard & Linda Howell Endangered Sea Turtles Ronnie & Jody Sloan

14 Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation Leigh & Craig Sudbrink Twiddy & Company Family Kayla White Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Buck Suiter Family Goody Tyler William Wickliffe Bar-B-Q Nancy F. Sykes Sharon VanDevander Wild Republic Christina Sola Bill & Mary Hannah Taft John & Sherrie Waddill Barbara & Jim Williams Rick Soles Property John E. Tantum, Attorney at Wallcrawls Hope Williams & Tom Bersuder Management Law John & Susie Ward Kevin & Stacia Wittkamp Sound Choice Insurance George & Suzanne Taylor David L. Ward, Jr. David & Sydney Womack Southern Bank Foundation The Hartford - In Honor of Mary C. Watzin Chuck & Connie Wright Alexander & Jennifer Speal Adrienne Moore Krystal & William Webb James Gordon Wright Holly Steele Transportation Impact Helen Lambeth Wells Shirley & Peter Young - In Robert Stickney, Jr. Triad Foundation Jordy & Ann Whichard Memory of Darlene Young Mary Beth & Robert Styers Tri-Tech Service Company

ONLINE GIFT SHOP NOW OPEN

Our online gift shop is open! When the pandemic forced housewares, masks, educational gifts, t-shirts, hats, the temporary closure of the Aquariums and Jennette’s jewelry, plush toys, books, magnets, and so much more. Pier, the Aquarium Society acted to create a new online Check it out at ncaquariumsociety.com/shop-online. gift shop. We have lots of great sustainable toys and

15 OTTERS ON THE EDGE FORT FISHER RENOVATIONS

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 behind- the-scenes care areas.

16 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

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.

17 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.

18 AQUARIUMS BECOME KULTURE CITY CERTIFIED

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

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. Aquariums have been described as sublime places. Yet, someone living with sensory issues may find the Prior to visiting, families can download the unexpected sights and experiences, dim lighting and, at free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory times, large crowds challenging. features are available and where to access them.

KultureCity, a non-profit organization devoted to sensory This new initiative will promote an accommodating and accessibility and acceptance, has certified each of the positive experience for all visitors, including those with North Carolina Aquariums as sensory inclusive facilities, 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 1-800- 832-FISH (3474). 19 PARK AND LEARN A newly launched North Carolina initiative now provides Pier Director Mike Remige agreed. free wireless internet access at all four locations thanks to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources “This is exactly why Jennette’s Pier is here, to help (DNCR). educate the public,” he said. “Anything we can do to provide educational opportunities to the public, it’s part These new high-speed WiFi devices were installed in the of our mission.” parking lots of the attractions as part of the state’s NC Student Connect Park and Learn program to help our The initiative is a partnership between DNCR and neighbors and local students connect to the internet. Gov. Cooper’s Hometown Strong program designed to The directors of each state facility were pleased with the address internet connectivity gaps in rural areas of North new service. Carolina.

“It’s important to be as supportive as we can at a time The program is adding free public Wi-Fi to more than when students need resources during this pandemic,” 400 sites across the state, including state parks and said Larry Warner. “The North Carolina Aquariums are historic sites, as well as local libraries, to provide free delighted to act as a WiFi resource location as part of this high-speed internet to students for remote learning. great project.” 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 Patterson designated the Aquarium Society as a and now Life recipient for her honorarium. With this grant, the Trustee Jane Smith Aquarium Society has created the Patterson-Williams Patterson’s years of Legacy Fund in support of ocean education for Title I dedicated service schools through the Aquarium Scholars program. The to the Z. Smith fund is named in honor of Jane Smith Patterson, who was Reynolds Foundation, the NC Aquarium Society’s Founding Board Chair, and Trustees of the incoming Aquarium Society Board Chair Hope Williams. Foundation have awarded $100,000 “Jane’s leadership was critically important to the very to the NC Aquarium origins of the North Carolina Aquariums more than forty Society. Patterson served the foundation for more than years ago,” said Jay Barnes, President and CEO of the 37 years, lending significant support to public policy, Aquarium Society. “As Secretary of the Department environmental, and educational platforms. 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.” 20 COVID-19 AND WISHES FOR FISHES

COVID-19 has had a dire impact on aquariums and zoos Those lost funds are crucial to support critical worldwide. Like many other organizations, the North conservation efforts, new animal habitats, engaging Carolina Aquariums were closed to the public for nearly educational programs, important facility upkeep and six months, through the spring and summer of 2020, expert animal care. You can help ensure our exceptional due to the work continues through your tax-deductible gift to our pandemic crisis. Wishes for Fishes Campaign. This challenging situation resulted PLEASE HELP SUPPORT THE NC AQUARIUMS in the loss of SO WE CAN CONTINUE TO CREATE more than $12 CONNECTIONS TO NATURE, SAVE SPECIES AND million in revenue CARE FOR ANIMALS. for the NC Aquariums and To contribute to our Wishes for Fishes campaign, go to NC Aquarium ncaquariumsociety.com/wishes-for-fishes Society. Yet, dedicated animal care never stopped–not or call us at 1-800-832-FISH (3474). then, not now. Our team continued to feed, care for and provide medical attention to our more than 7,500 animals every single day.

21 JENNETTE’S PIER

In May 2021, Surrounded by beautiful, clean beaches, the pier’s public Jennette’s Pier beach access draws hundreds of thousands of visitors celebrates its 10- from near and far. Jennette’s Pier has emerged as a year anniversary “must-see” place for schools to visit on the coast. In the since reopening past decade, they’ve averaged around 8,000 to 10,000 in 2011, as North Carolina students a year. part of the North Carolina Pier staff also keep busy with two important conservation Aquariums organizations — the Marine Mammal Stranding Network division. Known as and the Responsible Pier Initiative, which promises to “the place to be” help protect sea turtles. 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 Myra Best Chadsworth Columns Emerald Isle Realty CLUB Best Logistics Group Kay & Ken Chalk William C. Ethridge Foundation Biggs Cadillac, Buick, GMC Lucille M. Chaveas – In Charles & Becky Evans ($1000 Anually) Truck Memory of Kevin W. Yurecka Catherine Everett A Touch of Glass Betsy Blackwell & John Watson Chesnutt, Clemmons & Ashe B. Exum Tootsie Adderholdt Peacock, PA Frank L. Block FotoFX – Dave Tichenor Advance Signs & Service Marc & Sissy Chesnutt Bonzer Shack Bar & Grill Michael Frasketi Deborah Albert Coastal Carolina Dawn Bourne Full Send Racing American Chemistry Council Neuropsychiatric Center Branz Technologies Dick & Billie Futrell Aon – Rebecca McCabe Sally & Alan Cone Mary Craig & Brick Brown Robyn R. Gatling Association of Zoos & The Corcoran Family R.A. Bryan Foundation Norah & Eric Gerz Aquariums Drew & Vickey Covert Charlton & Peg Burns Goodnight Educational Atlantic Strategies Group Crystal Coast Tourism William C. Butler Foundation Joseph & Missy Balleydier Development Authority Tim Cafferty - In Memory of Grady-White Boats Marvin & Cynthia Barnes Dairy Queen Bill Koebernick Art & Carolyn Green Harold H. Bate Foundation Judith Davis Dan Cameron Family Green Sheep Water Tracy B. Bayne Foundation Dino Don Company Lena & Brian Greer Bayside Body Shop The Cannon Foundation Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation Bee & Thomas Gwynn Beach Bagels Cape Fear Garden Club Lauren Donnachie Rosemary Haas - In Memory of Bembridge Insurance Agencies Carolina Beach Jeep Go Topless Bill Koebernick Ashley Dozier – In Memory of Bill & Georgia Belk Carteret Health Care Graham Dozier John Hackney Agency Jonathan & Gail Berry Carteret Landing Duke Energy Foundation Thomas & Susan Hackney William & Marianne Berry CB Sub Shop

22 A.C. & Dot Hall Charles A. McCawley – In Jane Smith Patterson Buck Suiter Family Hanover Pediatrics Memory of Mercy & Sam Perry Patterson & Joel Leander Overton S. Suiter, Jr. McCawley Claire & Charles Harraghy Jay S. Paul Bill & Mary Hannah Taft Sam & Kim McConkey Allan & Nancy Harvin Suzanne & Brian Pecheles John E. Tantum, Attorney at Erin McKenzie Ella Ann L. & Frank B. Holding M. Peebles & Avery Harrison Law Margo McKnight Foundation Pennymen Group George & Suzanne Taylor Mike & Mary McNiel Olivia Holding Wes & Stewart Perry Transportation Impact The Brent Milgrom Family Hope from Helen – Jennifer D. Walter & Pam Phillips Triad Foundation Butler Foundation Charles & Mary C. Pierce Twiddy & Company Family Allan C. & Margaret L. Mims Richard Howell Goody Tyler Charitable Trust Edythe Poyner & Steve Williams Remi Hueckel John & Sherrie Waddill Minnesota Zoo Foundation Greg Proctor Igoe Creative Gary L. Wagner Susan Moffat-Thomas Quality Landscape The Ivy Cottage Wallcrawls Donna Moffitt Chuck & Bonnie Revelle Scott & Susan Jackson The Walker Family – Matt, Monterey Bay Aquarium Loren M. Rogers Jersey Mike’s Subs Carolina Nicole, Madison, Peyton & The Rotary Club of Kinston Oscar Beach Adrienne Moore Sally Johns Design Walters Family Foundation Arthur L. & Elaine V. Johnson Ron Nakamoto Foundation NC 529 College Savings Joseph & Angela Sample David L. Ward, Jr. Art & Alice Keeney Program Carl & Leigh Seager John & Susie Ward Kellogg Supply Company NC GlaxoSmithKline Wes & Jacque Seegars Mary C. Watzin Foundation Kelly’s Restaurant Jason & Melody Seely Wave Foundation New Knowledge Organization Patrick & Kathryn Kelly Jon & Karen Segal Krystal & William Webb Henry F. Nelson Lisa Kemplin Janet Shafer - In Memory of Jane Webster NEST – Network for Carl Shafer Roger Kemble Helen Lambeth Wells Endangered Sea Turtles Sharkbites Snack Bar Bernie Koebernick - In Memory Wells Fargo Foundation Greg & Laura Nichols of Bill Koebernick Adam & Sarah Shay Jordy & Ann Whichard North Carolina Community Mary Katherine Lawrence & Art Wayne & Amy Schriever Foundation Julian White Rawl Klose Skylight Specialists North State Foundation William Wickliffe Barbara Lehigh Billie-Jo & Ronald Sloan Betsy & Mitch Oakley Wild Republic Henry & Linda MacDonald Ronnie & Jody Sloan Dana O’Donovan Will You Escape the OBX Alex & Carolyn MacFadyen George Smedes Poyner Linda & Jeremy Ogden Rick & Myrna Willetts MAMEA – Mid-Atlantic Foundation Barbara & Jim Williams Marine Education Association Omega Sports Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation Hope Williams & Tom Bersuder Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk David O’Loughlin Family Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Willis Cable Construction James & Betty Mast Jeanne Osso Bar-B-Q Kevin & Stacia Wittkamp Bob & Carol Mattocks Ortega’z Grill Southern Bank Foundation David & Sydney Womack Joseph & Mary Matza Outdoor Lighting of Wilmington Alexander & Jennifer Speal Chuck & Connie Wright David & Lesley McAdams - Outer Banks Community Debra Stewart & Edwin Speas Foundation Elizabeth Wright & F. Mandel McAdams Foundation Mary Beth & Robert Styers Rebecca & John McCabe The Outer Banks Hospital Leigh & Craig Sudbrink

23 BUSINESS Sam & Omie’s Restaurant The Cameron Report Grants Creek Nursery LEADER SeaSide Dentistry Carolina Designs Realty Gubbs Vending Cindi N. Smith Realty Carolina Pain Center James Himes & Wendy Himes ($500 Anually) Sound Choice Insurance Carteret-Craven Electric Lutz Abruzzo’s Pizza Stan White Realty & Cooperative Holiday Inn Express Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant Construction., Inc. CB Warrior Kids The Holiday Trav-L-Park Resort Atlantic Elevators Sun Realty Chadsworth Columns Horns to Halos Dog Training Atlantis Lodge John Tantum, Attorney at Law, Clancy & Theys Construction Intracoastal Realty Corporation BeachCare Urgent & Family PA Christopher Clark & Associates, Island Essentials Medical Center Tri-Tech Service Company DDS Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill Cape Fear Pharmacy Wilmington Eye ClinLab Consulting Johnson Family Dentistry Capital Ready Mix Coastal Business Development Kellogg Supply Company Coastal Business Development BUSINESS Coastal Carolina Orthodontics Ryan Kerlin Painting Coastal Countertops & Tile MEMBER Coastal Carolina Regional Kirkman, Whitford, Brady, Comprehensive Rehabilitation & Airport Berryman & Gordon, PA/ Pain Specialists ($300 Anually) Coastal Dentistry Attorneys at Law Dawson Signature Management 101 Mobility Comprehensive Dental Center Kitty Hawk Kites FlanneryBuilt General Ace Marine Rigging & Supply Conphalt Kurtis Chevrolet Construction Adventure Wildlife Service Copper Rose Tattoo Lookout Ford Grooms Equipment Alert Construction Crossbridge Financial Group Lower Cape Fear Hospice Infinity Custom Cabinets Anderson Heating & Cooling D-Rex Pharmacy Mashburn Appraisal Group Island Automation PC Austin Fish Company Dare County Tourism Board Matchmaker Logistics W.M. Jordan Company Autumn Care of Myrtle Grove Davies Contracting Charles K. McCotter, Jr., Lisa’s Pizzeria Avian and Exotic Animal Care DFS Pharma Attorney at Law Malvin Riggins & Company B&M Roofing Contractors DLK Repair Corporation McFadyen Engineers Mama Kwan’s Grill & Tiki Bar Barbour Brothers Contruction, Donna M. Gentry DDS MedSource Pharmacy Mann Custom Boats Inc. Dorothy Kirtley Real Estate Modern Exterminating MCO Transport Basnight’s Lone Cedar Café Company Down Under Divers Club Midway Enterprises Beaches-n-Cream Moeller, PA El Gato Pelon The Brent Milgrom Family Bee Here Now Mollie A. Fearing & Associates Elite Spray Foam Systems LLC Foundation Big Sky Design James E. Moore Insurance Emerald Isle Realty Mt. Olive Pickle Company bioMONTR Labs Agency Fast Track Leadership, Inc. Nance’s, Inc. Bluewater Real Estate and MSOC Health - Management Finch and Company Charles Nash, DDS PA Vacation Rentals Service On Call First Carolina Cable Inc. Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar Boeck Chiropractic Clinic Mutiny Bay Adventure Golf First Flight Adventure Park Plus Commications Brandi’s Diner Mystic Aquarium Foley Contractors Port City Land Surveying Broome’s Unlimited Olde Towne Electric Full Throttle Speedway Rick Soles Property BT Carawan Lawn Care Inc. The Outer Banks Hospital Management Burns & Wilcox Gallaher Management Group Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Robert & Mary Beth Styers Byrd Quality Graham’s Senior Living Homes 24 PA Stoeber-Enof EA Services Linda Rike Real Estate Southern Shores Realty Unique Perspective Window Company Robinson & Stith Insurance The STEM Labs Coverings Paws & Claws Animal Hospital Rocky Top Catering StormPro Consultants Uptown Properties Paynter Security Consulting SAGA Realty & Construction Studio Three Architects Victory Chrysler Dodge Jeep Group Sally Johns Design Suburban Electric Services Walter Davis Enterprises LLC Pleasant Farm & Garden The Salt Box Café Sun Realty Doug & Mary Weaver Potter’s Seafood Saltwater Metals SweetSip Wiedner Water Works Inc. Prawno Seaglass Training Timberlands Unlimited Al Williams Properties ProGreen Turf & Landscape Rick Soles Property Top Tier Computer Services Williams Hardware Ram Rent-All Management Town of Indian Beach Wilmington Police Recreation ReBath of Wilson Association SoundBank Tripps Pressure Washing The Reel Outdoors SoundSide Restaurant 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 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) State Appropriations $8,330,000.00 Admission Receipts $5,274,000.00 Rentals and Events $694,000.00 Total Revenue $14,298,000.00

EXPENSES (ROUNDED) Personnel $11,662,000.00 Services $2,300,000.00 Property, Equipment & Supplies $608,000.00 PKS Bond Payment $1,641,000.00 Total Expenses $16,211,000.00 26 2020 AQUARIUM SOCIETY

REVENUE (ROUNDED) Gift Shops Sales $724,000.00 Membership $821,000.00 Contributions, Grants, & Scholarships $3,617,000.00 Concessions & Other Income $149,000.00 Investments, Net $214,000.00 NCA Lease for the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores $1,798,000.00 Total Revenue $7,323,000.00

EXPENSES (ROUNDED) Aquarium & Pier Support $2,242,000.00 Gift Shops & Costs of Goods $1,801,000.00 Membership $344,000.00 Development & Fundraising $188,000.00 Management & General $798,000.00 Total Expenses $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.