August 29, 2018

T h e C a p e F e a r ’ s A lt e r n at i v e V o i c e f o r 3 5 Y e a r s !

VOL. 36/ PUB. 6 AUGUST 29-SEPTEMBER 4, 2018

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LOVE IS LOVE Port City Pride kicks off a weekend of celebration and inclusion

HODGEPODGE Vol. 36/Pub. 6

August 29-September 4, 2018

ON THE COVER

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event of the week

Friday, May 6 - 28, 11 a.m.

Wednesday, Sept.

4 p.m.

Snake and Turtle Feeding Inquiring minds may enjoy a brief presentation about the live animals on display in the Events Center at Halyburton Park (4099 S. 17th St.) and then watch them feed. At least one snake and turtle will be fed during the demonstration. Ages: 3 and up can participate for $1 on Wednesday, Sept.

5, as well as on Oct. 3, Nov. 7, and Dec. 5 from 4 p m.-4:30 p.m.

Visit wilmingtonnc.gov/departments/ parks-recreation/halyburton-park To enter events on encore’s new online calendar, generated by SpinGo, head to www.encorepub. com/welcome/events-2. Events must be entered by every Thursday at noon, for consideration in print and on our new app, encore Go. E-mail shea@ encorepub.com with questions.

LOVE IS LOVE, PGS. 32-33

Port City Pride is hosting its annual block party this weekend on Castle Street, along with a series of Pride events for LGBTQIA youth and adults from August 31 through September 2. Read more about the first annual Mas[queer]ade Ball for teens, Rainbow Bar Crawl and more. Courtesy photo

M

MUSIC>> Tenor sax player Calvin Johnson features samplings and influence from many artists on his ‘Bible’ EP series.

He’ll release a full-length album later this year with his band Chapter:SOUL. Courtesy photo

A

Assistant Editor:

Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com

Art Director/Office Manager:

Susie Riddle // ads@encorepub.com

PG. 8

Chief Contributors: Gwenyfar Rohler, Anghus, Tom Tomorrow, Chuck Shepherd, Mark Basquill, Rosa Bianca, Rob Brezsny, Linda Grattafiori, Bethany Turner, John Wolfe

<<ART

Courtesy photo

Photo by Shannon Rae Gentry

General Manager:

John Hitt // john@encorepub.com

Glenn Rosenbloom // glenn@encorepub.com Tami Maggio // tami@encorepub.com John Hitt // john@encorepub.com Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com Published weekly on Wednesday by HP Media.

Opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of encore.

PG. 30

INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • News of the Weird, pg. 6 • OpEd, pg. 7 Music, pgs. 8-13 • Art, pgs. 14-15 • Film, pg. 19 • Theatre, pg. 21 • Dining, pgs. 22-31 Extra, pgs. 32-34 • Crossword, pg. 39 • Calendar, pgs. 36-47

2 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

SALES>

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D

DINING>> Hibachi abounds at Mizuki Japan, as well as all the fried things to please the tummy after a long weekend. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it happens to be a homerun for Rosa Bianca.

Editor-in-Chief:

Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com

Michael Aurbach is debuting a solo exhibition that merges Orwellian parable and symbolism at UNCW’s Cultural Arts Gallery this month. It will remain on display through September.

PG. 14

EDITORIAL>

6700 Netherlands Drive, Ste. A, Wilmington, NC 28405 P.O. Box 12430, Wilmington, N.C. 28405 email@encorepub.com • www.encorepub.com Phone: (910) 791-0688 • Fax: (910) 791-9534

An Evening With

Robert Cray

T uesday , s epTember 4 • 7:30 pm

TickeT cenTral • capeFearsTage.com • 910.362.7999 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 3

NEWS>>LIVE LOCAL

LIVE LOCAL, LIVE SMALL: The representation of symbols in the collective mind BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

SYMBOLS OF INDEPENDENCE: Gwenyfar dissects the history behind our state and country flags and their representations in our collective mind. Photos courtesy of Wikipedia.

“D

o you know who Silent Sam is?” Jock queried. He was reading the headlines in the paper right after the toppling of the statue at UNC Chapel Hill.

“Yes, he’s a statue at UNC representing the soldiers serving the Confederacy and attending the school. But there are numerous statues like him throughout the South.”

I pointed toward the Cape Fear River.

“Unlike the statue of George Davis at Third and Market, Silent Sam is not for a specific person but rather for a group of people or an idea. There are a lot of them and corresponding ones in the North for the Union soldiers. Many were made by the same monument companies and erected around the turn of the century.”

They are called the Silent Sentinels.

Marc Fisher wrote a fascinating piece in the Washington Post in August 2017 about

the monument companies in New England that sold the same statues all over the country—changing the belt buckle on the statues from “C.S.” for Confederate States to “U.S.” for United States. Otherwise, the collection of silent soldiers look the same.

For a war that famously set “brother against brother,” it actually could be an interesting artistic choice, but in reality it’s more driven by economics. Fisher’s observations on the topic were so biting they were hard to forget in the wake of the Charlottesville and Durham confederate monument take-downs; they really stuck with me: “To the Monumental Bronze Co. in Bridgeport, Conn., it was all just business.

Union or Confederate, a customer was a customer, another $450 for a zinc statue that could mean whatever you needed it to mean. It was a business model that could appeal to President Trump—a highly profitable product that could dress up a drab

4 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

little town and make many Americans feel great again.”

Mmm. All of this has got me thinking about the state symbols of North Carolina. Ever since Bree Newsome pulled the Confederate Battle flag from the top of the South Carolina capitol I have been ruminating on symbols and ones that capture public imagination.

Flags are of pretty easy for people to attach themselves to. I was in Folks for coffee one morning shortly after Ms. Newsome’s climb and a fellow patron was relating an exchange he had about Confederate flags.

Apparently, a friend of his considered Confederate symbols on the NC flag perfectly fine. Immediately, a friend and I piped up to correct the dates on our state flag; they were not for the Confederacy but the American Revolution.

“That’s the Halifax Resolves and the

Mecklenburg!” I burbled.

When I get excited, complete sentences tend to flee as all the information topples over each other in an effort to escape my brain. For geeky people like me, opportunities to wax poetic on topics I have stored up over the years is quite exciting. Unfortunately, I am never as eloquent as I imagine.

So the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, whose validity is debatable (dates, record-keeping, messengers, transfer of information, all being a little more relaxed in the 1700s than in our current and immediacy-oriented society) is one of the dates on our state flag: May 20, 1775. In all likelihood, the Mecklenburg Resolves from later in the month are more likely the real deal, but they lack the pizzazz and marketability the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence received in the early 19th century, when we, North Carolinians, claimed to be the first state to declare independence

from Great Britain.

The more accurate and historically authentic date on our flag is for the Halifax Resolves, April 12, 1776. Even though Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone left it out of the musical “1776” (and instead credited Virginia and Maryland with paving the way for a Declaration of Independence), the Halifax Resolves were the first official resolution adopted by a colony to instruct their representatives in the Continental Congress to vote for independence from Great Britain. In essence, we are what finally brought that to a positive vote.

Anyone driving along I-95 should pull off at Halifax and visit their historic district—a State Historic Site commemoration. (Local residents also put on a wonderful outdoor drama called “First for Freedom” during summer months.)

Our current flag has been used by the State of North Carolina since 1885. I fully concede the previous flag had Confederate commemoration: Instead of the date of the Halifax Resolves, it had the date NC seceded from the Union: May 20, 1861. The symbolism of the Mecklenburg Declaration and the secession date mirroring each other was emphasized during the Civil War. However, no one having coffee on Princess Street in 2017 was alive when it flew as the

official state flag. The flag was adopted in 1861 as our first official state flag. I guess prior to secession and the Civil War, we were content enough with being part of the Union, so there wasn’t a need to trouble the North Carolina General Assembly with creating a flag.

In Louisburg, NC, there is a commemoration to Orren Randolph Smith, who claims to have designed Stars and Bars—the first official flag of the Confederate States of America. Nicola Marschall of Alabama also receives credit for the design. It is an unresolved dispute for a small but very dedicated group of historical enthusiasts.

Yet, the flag that flew most frequently during the Civil War in North Carolina was called the “Bonnie Blue Flag”—deep blue with one white star in the center. I wonder how many people who love “Gone with the Wind” remember the reason Scarlett and Rhett named their daughter Bonnie was because her eyes were as blue as the Bonnie Blue Flag. The flag has faded largely from memory, and replaced for most people by the Battle Flag, which has taken on the moniker “Stars and Bars” for many. Though, the original Stars and Bars looked much more like a Union flag.

As a child I read the story of Betsy Ross creating the American flag; a pretty standard

experience many American children have.

Somewhere in a history or literature book, the short story of her creating a flag for the fledgling cause appears. The Smithsonian Institution has published writings questioning the validity of the story. I’m not convinced it matters to many people if Ross really did design and sew the first flag for General Washington. What matters is the resonance of the story in our collective imagination—just like the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence resonated for a long time with the imaginations of North Carolinians: “We were first.

We took a stand.”

In retrospect it is something people like to believe about themselves. Though, when faced with decisions in real time, most are too scared to put a toe out of line and face consequences when they could be executed for treason.

150 years ago the two dates on our flag resonated in the hearts of North Carolinians.

Now, they are largely forgotten and unnoticed on our flag. If that is the case, it makes me wonder: What, exactly, is it that captures the collective imagination of the residents of our state and makes us see ourselves as a group together, for better or worse? Would we do better to put a basketball on the state flag? What ennobles us and truly unites us?

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 5

SUSPICIONS CONFIRMED

Among the gazillion other products and services available from Amazon is the behemoth’s facial recognition software, Rekognition, marketed as providing extremely accurate facial analysis. But when the American Civil Liberties Union gave it a go, the results were startling. Using Rekognition, the ACLU scanned photos of every current member of the U.S. House and Senate and came up with 28 matches to a mug shot database of people who had been arrested for crimes.

The ACLU announced its findings July 26 and admitted it used Amazon’s default settings, to which Amazon responded, “While 80 percent confidence is an acceptable threshold for photos of hot dogs, chairs, animals or other social media use cases,” Amazon would advise customers to set the threshold at 95 percent or higher for law enforcement. The ACLU told NPR that the legislators who were falsely matched were

men, women, Republicans and Democrats of all ages. However, the software did misidentify people of color at a higher rate.

[NPR, 7/26/2018]

WEIRD SCIENCE

You thought you were old? You’re just a twinkle in a nematode’s eye. Russian scientists have revived two ancient, frozen roundworms, or nematodes, from samples collected in Siberian permafrost, The Siberian Times reported on July 26. The worms, which were found in cores taken from 30 meters and 3.5 meters deep, are believed to be female and 41,700 and 32,000 years old, respectively. After collecting the samples, scientists slowly thawed out the worms, which eventually started eating and moving. Scientists from the Institute of PhysicoChemical and Biological Problems of Soil Science in Moscow believe the nematodes have some adaptive mechanisms that may

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be of scientific importance. [The Siberian wedding plaques launched into space. AcTimes, 7/26/2018] cording to United Press International, the startup company, founded by faculty memFLORIDA. NEED WE SAY MORE? bers from the University of Tsukuba, will During a July 23 debate among may- print a titanium plate with the names of the oral candidates in Key West, Florida, Sloan betrothed and put it, along with a few hunBashinsky, a perennial contender, took a dred other plaques, in one of a series of minute to answer a call from God. “Hello? small cubes to be released into space from What? God?” Bashinsky said, speaking into the International Space Station. Astronauts his cellphone. According to FLKeys News, it will memorialize the launching by taking wasn’t the first time he’s heard from a higher photographs, which will then be sent to the power: “I have said every time I ran, I ran newlyweds. The service costs $270. [UPI, because God told me to run,” Bashinsky ex- 7/26/2018] plained. “I think anyone who wants this job is insane.” Bashinsky has a law degree from AWESOME! Vanderbilt University and was once among Painesville (Ohio) Municipal Court Judge the island’s homeless. He joins six other Michael Cicconetti has a reputation for servcandidates on the ticket. [FLKeys News, ing up unusual sentences, and he delivered 7/24/2018] again on July 24 when 18-year-old Bayley Toth appeared in his courtroom. Toth was SIGN OF THE TIMES convicted of two misdemeanor criminal misJust after midnight on July 22, a couple in chief charges for toppling a portable toilet at Palo Alto, California, were awakened in their Painesville Township Park in June, among bedroom by a 17-year-old burglar with a gar- other things. Cicconetti sentenced him to ment obscuring his face. Instead of demand- 120 days in jail, but suspended it in lieu of ing money or jewelry, though, the intruder Toth shoveling ... manure at the Lake Counasked for their Wi-Fi password. According to ty Fair. “You act like an animal, you’re gothe Sacramento Bee, the homeowner forced ing to take care of animals,” Cicconetti told the teen out of the home and called police, Toth. The News-Herald reported Toth will who tracked him down a block away and also have to perform 40 hours of community arrested him for felony residential burglary. service and pay restitution for damage to the Police later determined it wasn’t the teen’s park. [The News-Herald, 7/30/2018] first attempt at connectivity. Less than an hour earlier that night, a prowler had summoned a woman from her home to ask for access to her Wi-Fi network also. She told him to go away, and he rode off on a bicycle -- which she realized the next day he had stolen from her backyard. She called police, who recovered the bike near where they had arrested the teen. [The Sacramento Bee, 7/25/2018]

JUST SAY NO

Brody Tyler Young, 25, was arrested in a Nashville, Tennessee, McDonald’s on July 23 after spending “all day” locked in the women’s restroom, dancing naked, doing jumping jacks and hitting the wall. According to WFFA TV, when officers managed to enter the restroom, they found Young locked in a stall, smelling of “chemical fumes, as if he had been huffing.” Young was taken into custody and charged with public intoxication BRIGHT IDEAS Jeffrey Jacobs, 37, thought he had a great and public indecency. [WFFA, 7/24/2018] thing going. Last year, when a tree fell on his White Plains, New York, home, he told the EWWWWW! A weird in-air experience for passengers owner of a tree service (and big hockey fan) that he was the owner of the NHL’s Boston traveling from the Canary Islands in Spain Bruins, reported The Hour. Impressed, the to the Netherlands on May 29 ended tragitree service owner sent a crew in the midst cally. The Transavia flight was forced to of a storm, then billed the actual club owner, land in Faro, Portugal, after passengers be78-year-old Jeremy Jacobs, $5,100 for the gan fainting and vomiting in reaction to the service. Police in nearby Wilton, Connecti- overpowering smell of another passenger, cut, heard about the deception when they 58-year-old Russian rocker Andrey Suchilin. received a call in May from security officials “It was like he hadn’t washed himself for at a company chaired by the Bruins’ owner. several weeks,” Belgian passenger Piet van The story sounded familiar: In November, Haut said. CBS News reported that Suchilin Jacobs had been pulled over in Wilton, and had sought medical attention in Spain and he told officers he owned the Bruins in an was given antibiotics for an “ordinary beach effort to get out of the ticket. On July 20, infection.” Taken to a hospital in Portugal, Jacobs was pulled over for using his phone his condition deteriorated, and he was diagwhile driving in Poughkeepsie, New York, nosed with tissue necrosis. Doctors induced sent back to Wilton and charged with crimia coma and performed several surgeries, nal impersonation. [The Hour, 7/24/2018] but his wife reported on his Facebook page Diamonds are SO 20th century. In Ja- that he died on June 25. The airline assured pan, Warp Space is offering newlyweds the fellow passengers that “there has been no chance to make their union universal with risk of infection.” [CBS News, 6/28/2018

NEWS>>OP-ED

FERTILIZE THE FUTURE:

Fresh From the Farm

Hate won’t help, action will BY: MARK BASQUILL

“H

in ‘69.”

“A Magnificent Bastard? Mutter’s Ridge?” ave you been following all the His eyes momentarily softened. “America’s big, crazy stuff coming out of great again. No thanks to hate.”

Washington? Truth isn’t truth?”

“When America’s great,” I echoed, “it ain’t My friend asked as he waited for a sandabout the hate.” wich at a downtown shop.

My fellow citizen walked off brusquely, si“When has truth ever been truth in polilently, with a beef-brisket sandwich. tics?” I asked. “I steer clear of the big crazy After I picked up my spinach salad, I stuff and focus on small sanities, like the New Hanover County mobile compost pro- walked outside. A blue bumper sticker gram. As of July, we can take food waste to shouted at me from the back of a Prius: “If the landfill on Rte 421, or to the HazWagon you’re not outraged, you’re not paying aton Monday, Wednesday or Friday. Nothing tention!” more exciting than using garbage to fertilize I’m paying attention. And I’m not outthe future.” raged.

“Washington doesn’t interest you?”

“All politics is local,” I countered.

“Campaign chair Paul Manafort: guilty.

The president’s personal lawyer Michael Cohen: guilty. Former National Security Adviser Mike Flynn: guilty. Former Campaign Adviser George Papadopoulos: guilty. Former deputy campaign chair Rick Gates: guilty. POTUS revoking security clearances, issuing frivolous pardons, constantly delegitimizing journalists, engaging in nearly constant racism, and distracting rage tweets doesn’t interest you?”

I agree with my POTUS-loving Marine friend: Hatred doesn’t help. I don’t hate or love the president. He’s just a guy. In fact, he’s the same guy he was back in the bonespur days, back in the days he was suing grandmothers in Atlantic City to get his casinos off the ground.

Downtown Wilmington’s Riverfront Farmers Market

DOWNTOWN - Each Saturday

March 31st - November 17th • 8:00am - 1:00pm (no market Apr. 14 & Oct. 6)

Hillary Clinton (another polarizing political figure I neither love nor hate), cautioned in an August 25, 2016 campaign speech:

“I know some people still want to give Trump the benefit of the doubt. They hope he will eventually reinvent himself—that there’s a kinder, gentler, more responsible I shrugged.

Donald Trump waiting in the wings someMy friend grabbed his veggie wrap and where … But the hard truth is, there’s no headed back out to the sweltering heat on other Donald Trump. This is it.”

Front Street.

Even if Madam Secretary is the devil inA man standing behind me in line wagged carnate that some maintain, she appears to his finger. His hair was whiter than mine, be right. The fact our POTUS is now surand he wore a red t-shirt. “It’s all garbage!” rounded by chaos, craziness and a cadre of he said. “Mueller is garbage! You either love convicts should surprise exactly zero Ameriour president or you hate him. Haters, that’s cans—or Russians. all you are! I love our president. He is doing I don’t hate our POTUS, but I am disapa damn fine job. Is there nothing that poor man can do that you haters won’t hate on?” pointed in him and in the one-of-four Americans who will defend and vote for him if he “He canceled the military parade on Armidoes shoot someone on 5th Avenue. And I stice Day,” I shrugged. don’t hate myself either, but since Novem“I love it! More money for fighter jets!” he ber 9, 2016, I have wondered, Did I do said. “I’m a Marine! Vietnam ‘68!” enough to help prevent this?

“So is Special Counsel Robert Mueller,” I noted. “He was a rich, white kid like the president. He could have gotten out of the service. Instead, he waited a year for an injured knee to heal, then volunteered for the Marines. Hotel Company, 2nd of the 4th Marines, ‘The Magnificent Bastards.’ He led a platoon at Mutter’s Ridge. Quang Tri province 1968. Airlifted out after taking an AK round through his thigh after a firefight

The Riverfront Farmers Market is a curbside market featuring local farmers, producers, artists & crafters.

Hating on the POTUS, his apologists or ourselves won’t help. Action will. Our POTUS hasn’t changed, but, in a weird way, he has given us a chance to grow beyond hate. This fall I’m working to be less reactive to daily hate-mongering from every corner, and more active in promoting candidates and causes that may generate a little less garbage, solve a few problems and fertilize the future.

- FRUITS - VEGETABLES - PLANTS - HERBS

- FLOWERS - EGGS - CHEESES - WINE

- PICKLES - KOMBUCHA - ART & CRAFTS

- MEATS - SEAFOOD - HONEY - BAKED GOODS

For more information: www.riverfrontfarmersmarket.org

encore encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 7

ARTS>>MUSIC

THE NEXT CHAPTER:

Sax player Calvin Johnson talks Chapter:SOUL and upcoming releases before playing The Whiskey BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

W

e often talk to songwriters and instrumentalists who credit their families for their prowess, or at least their interest in music. For tenor sax player Calvin Johnson Jr., a thirdgeneration musician out of New Orleans, music is in his bloodline.

“My paternal grandfather led WPA bands and taught music in schools during the Depression and thereafter,” Johnson explains. “He also had 11 children.

He was one of those good NOLA Catholic family men. All his children played music in some form or fashion. Therefore I couldn’t escape it; I was surrounded by music at all times.”

A talented composer and vocalist, Johnson fronts the four-piece funk and soul band Chapter:SOUL. The band com-

prises Kashonda Bailey on organ, keyboards and synths, Trenton O’Neal and Thomas Glass on drums, Evan Washington on keybass, and Jenelle Rockaforte on bass.

“It’s just amazing,” Johnson muses. “I truly am jealous [of] myself by how amazing my team [is] to work with. . . . They each have their own style and approach, but, when we put it together, it’s like a match made in heaven.”

Chapter:SOUL is preparing to release the third EP of a mixtape series, “The Bible,” as well as a full-length album later this fall. Johnson and company will play their tour’s 20th show at The Whiskey on August 29.

“The current tour has been amazing but at this point the old man is tired and ready to go home,” he quips. “It’s been fun though, spreading the gospel of music and what it is we do. . . . We love meeting fans everywhere we go and hearing their stories.”

TUES

Their next EP installment is based upon the music of Bruno Mars, hence its title, “The Bible Book 3: The Book Of Bruno.” “It complements the two prior releases because they drew specific motivation from the band’s direct influences,” Johnson explains. “‘Book 1’ drew upon the band’s roots in funk while ‘Book 2’ drew upon the influences of Kanye and his sampling and production styles.”

8/28 WILMINGTON’S ROADRUNNERS CLUB

6PM START

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CAPE FEAR SPORTS HUMAN FOOSBALL

7PM START

THURS

Check their website for details and to register your team.

8/30 JARED MICHAEL CLINE

ilm MAKERS & GROWERS MARKET

5-7PM 5-9PM

FRI

Vittles Food Truck, 5-8pm

8/31 TUMBLEWEED CD RELEASE PARTY

8-10PM

SPECIAL GUESTS JESSE STOCKTON AND STRAY LOCAL

SAT

Catch. The Food Truck, 6-9pm

9/1 TRAVIS SHALLOW AND THE DEEP END

8-10PM

8/26 MORNING YOGA WITH

11AM-12NOON

SUN

Soulful Twist Food Truck, 6-9pm

PINEAPPLE STUDIOS

DAVID DIXON ACOUSTIC SOLO

4-6PM

Poor Piggy’s BBQ Food Truck, 3-6pm

721 Surry Street Wilmington waterlinebrewing.com

Located Under The Cape Fear Memorial Bridge Free parking & brewery tours.

Wine & cider are available.

Kanye West is featured on “Book 2,” and revolves around a unique marriage of futuristic synths with hip-hop and R&B sounds. Johnson’s tenor sax remains at the forefront. Because they’ve recorded the series as concentrated music in chapters, each is just as essential as the last, yet distinctly different from the others.

“By the time the band concludes our ‘Bible’ series, our fans will truly get the origins and essence of our genre, which is ‘NOLA future funk,’” Johnson adds.

“The band works and records at its own studios, and because of that, we’ve learned a lot over the course of recording three EPs. I feel our entire sound has gotten better within our studio flow. Mic placement: Wow, that’s so important.

From a songwriting and orchestration perspective, now, at this point, we’re like mad scientists. We go in!”

8 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

ORGANIC BLENDS: Chapter:SOUL is coming to The Whiskey in downtown ILM. Courtesy photo

Their upcoming full-length album is going to be the culmination of jazz, funk, gospel, pop, sampling, and allow Johnson to show his muscle in lyric-writing, production and more. Chapter:SOUL have leaked a sampler with “Give It Away,” of which they’ve been playing live for six months.

“Our fans have really been digging it,” Johnson observes. “It’s about us as people—as a society and as a culture. It’s about being a champion for who and what you are and stand [for]. The hook says it all: ‘Give it away / we don’t care what you got to say.’”

Johnson’s own writing and composition process usually consists of coming up with the bones of a song for the team to build upon. Oftentimes, songs write themselves from there.

“In moments when they don’t write themselves, that’s when I like to go live with it and start playing music with the band,” he says. “Usually, once we start playing it on the bandstand, the individual personalities get [ahold] of it and bring

stylings to it [to] complete [it].”

With Johnson’s bandmates, as well as lyricist Landon Oubre, their respective roles continue to evolve and come alive in the studio—and especially on stage.

Since coming together in 2010, Johnson’s learned it’s best for them to work out songs on the bandstand for a more “organic blend.”

“We’ve been doing that on tour with ‘Streetcar Love,’” he divulges of another new track. “The way it sounds now versus the way it sounded at the beginning of the tour is like night and day.”

Folks can follow Chapter:SOUL on social media and listen to their mixtape EPs on Soundcloud.

DETAILS:

Chapter:SOUL

Wednesday, Aug. 29, 9 p.m.

The Whiskey 1 S. Front St. Tickets: $5-$10 www.chaptersoul.com

5559 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403 â&#x20AC;˘ (910) 798-2913

$15 gift certificate toward lunch

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$20 gift certificate toward dinner

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encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 9

A PREVIEW OF EVENTS ACROSS TOWN THIS WEEK

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Red Stripe Bottles $250

Truly Lime Spiked and 5564 Carolina Beach Road $ 50 2 Fat Tire Bottles Sparkling Water $3 (910)-452-1212 22oz.BellsTwo Hearted IPADraft $5 FRIDAY Visit our website Sinking Bahama Mama $7 $4,www.RuckerJohns.com Cosmos 007 $350 for daily $ specials, music and 1/2 Off All Premium 3 Guinness Cansupcoming Red Wine Glasses events $

Island Sunsets 5 SATURDAY Baybreeze/Seabreeze $4 22oz. Blue Moon Draft $3 Select Domestic Bottles $2 SUNDAY Bloody Marys $4, Domestic Pints $150 Hurricanes $5

5564 Carolina Beach Road, (910) 452-1212

LIVE MUSIC Aug 30th: Whiskey Foxtrot, 8-11pm Aug 31st: CC Martin, 9pm-12am Sept 1st: Rocky Pleasant, 9pm-12am

Offering a variety of craft beer, ciders and wine

SUMMER SOUL: September Mourning will bring their ‘Summer Soul Collection 2018’ tour to The Calico Room in downtown Wilmington on Thursday, August 30. Photo by Curtis Noble Photography.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 29 Open Mic Night (6pm; Free)

—Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 Oleander Dr.

Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.

Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)

Jazz - Season 9 (All Day; $10-$20)

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999

THURSDAY, AUGUST 30

Soul-R Fusion (6pm; Free; Soul, Funk)

—The Blind Elephant, 21 N. Front St. Unit F

—Mad Mole Brewing, 6309-C Boathouse Rd.

Al DiMarco (7pm; Free; Accordion, Keys)

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

—Platypus & Gnome, 9 S. Front St.

Karaoke Wednesdays (8pm; Free)

—Ibiza Nightclub Wilmington, 118 Market St.

HOW TO SUBMIT A LISTING:

Open Mic Comedy (7pm; $0-$3)

—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.

Trivia from Hell’s (7:30pm; Free)

—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-7634133

September Mourning (7:30pm; $12-$15) —The Calico Room, 107 S Front St.;

Cara Schauble (6pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

FireDrums & Tarot Thursdays (8pm; Free)

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $27) —Wilmington Water Tours LLC,

Whiskey Foxtrot Trio (8pm; Free; Americana)

212 S. Water St.

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-7632223 —Pour Taproom, 201 North Front St.

Alexis Raeana & Kyng Bea (9pm; Free, Vo-

All Soundboard listings must be entered onto our online calendar, powered by SpinGo, each Wednesday, by 5 p.m., for consideration in the following week’s entertainment calendar. All online listings generate the print listings, as well as encore’s new app, encore Go. Venues are responsible for notifying encore of any changes, removals or additions to their weekly schedules.

10 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 11

THURSDAY

100 S. FRONT ST. 910-251-1832 LIVE MUSIC in the courtyard 7 days a week

MONDAY

$2 Select Domestic • $3 Draft $4 Flavored Bombs 1/2 Price Apps Live Music from Tony and Adam TUESDAY

$3 Fat Tire & Voo Doo $5 Jameson • $2 Tacos Pub Trivia on Tuesday Live music from Rebekah Todd WEDNESDAY

$2.75 Miller Lite • $4 Wells, 1/2 price bottles of wine $2 off a dozen oysters Live music from Jeremy Norris

$3 Miller Lite $4 Deep Eddy Lemon Drop shots $5 Deep Eddy Grapefruit and Soda All floors open SUNDAY

$3 Corona/ Corona lt • $4 Mimosa $4 Bloody Mary Live music from L-Shape Lot duo 3pm and Clay Crotts 8pm

Jazz - Season 9 (All Day; $10-$20)

Port City’s Top Comic (7pm, 9:30pm; $10)

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999

FRIDAY, AUGUST 31

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Just Yesterday (7pm; Free)

—Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

$2.50 PBR 16oz cans $3.50 Sam Seasonal and Hoppyum IPA draft $5 Redbull and Vodka 1/2 price wings Live music from Josh Solomon $2.75 Michelob Ultra $3.25 Stella $4.50 Lunazul Tequila All Floors open

cals, Piano)

Satisfaction (6:30pm; Free; Rolling Stones Tribute)—Riverfront Park, 5 N. Water St. $3.75 Hay Bale Ale

$3.75 Red Oak Draft $4 Wells 65 Wings, 4-7pm

$3.50 Pint of the Day $4 Fire Ball

$3.75 Sweetwaters $4.50 Absolute Lemonade

$5 Mimosas $5 Car Bombs

$3.75 Sweet Josie $4 Margaritas

$5 Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas *Drink Specials run all day

Boardwalk Gazebo Music: Phantom Playboys (6:30pm; Free; Rockabilly) —Carolina Beach Boardwalk, 100 Cape Fear Blvd.

Professor Dub on the Patio (6:30pm; Free) —Palate, 1007 N. 4th St.

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $27)—Wilmington Water Tours LLC, 212 S. Water St.

Artistry in Jazz Big Band (7pm; Free)

—Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Cape Fear Blvd.

Christ Nash (7pm; $3; Country)

1423 S. 3rd St. DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON (910) 763-1607 Tuesday __________________________________________ • 16 NC brews on tap • 8 big screen TV’s • Sports packages

• Bar games • Free popcorn machine

Ch eers!

Trivia Night & FREE Wings Every Tuesday @ 9pm Sip & Spell Adult Spelling Bee Every Wednesday @ 9pm Free Hot Dog Station and Pot Luck Every Sunday 106 N 2nd Street

(Located next to 2nd Street parking deck) Hours of operation: Mon. - Fri. 2:00pm-2:00am Sat. & Sun. noon-2:00 am

KARAOKE

w/DJ Damo, 9PM

2 KILLIANS • $400 MAGNERS

$ 50

Thursday ________________________________________

TRIVIA

8:00 P.M. • PRIZES! • $250 YUENGLING DRAFT $ 50 3 FIREBALL SHOTS

Friday & Saturday

__________________________

LIVE MUSIC 2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS

$ 00

Sunday ___________________________________________

BREAKFAST BUFFET 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. • $4 MIMOSA’S

Call 791-0688 Deadline every Thurs., noon!

—Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

Billingsley (9pm; $5; Rock-n-Roll Duo)

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-7632223

Groove Fetish (10pm; Cover TBD; Jam, Funk) —The Calico Room, 107 S Front St.

Jazz - Season 9 (All Day; $10-$20)

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $27)

—Wilmington Water Tours LLC, 212 S. Water St.

Sacred Cashcow, Softspoken, Foxbat, Mumu Tutu (7pm; Cover TBD; Rock)

Sunday School Underground (8pm; Free)

—Morning Glory Coffeehouse, 1415 Dawson St.

Mike Blair (7pm; Free; Americana)

—Cloud 9 at Embassy Suites, 9 Estell Lee Pl.

Port City’s Top Comic (7pm, 9:30pm; $10)

—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.

Jazz Night with James Jarvis (8pm; Free)

—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.

Free Comedy Show (8pm; Free)

—Lucky Joe Coffee, 1414 S.College Rd.

Bottega Pirate’s Ball Featuring Open Wire (8pm; Free)

—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.

Wax Imperials EP Release Party w/ Waul and Dark Prophet Tongueless Monk (8:30pm; $5$10; Rock) —Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

Zach Deputy w/ Oogee Wawa & The Michael Eakins Trio (9pm; $13.50; Rock) —The Calico Room, 107 S Front St.

Band/ Madonna Nash (9:30pm; Free)

—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-7634133

Jazz - Season 9 (All Day; $10-$20)

—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St. —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-7632223

CBDB (10pm; $7-$10; Progressive Rock) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

Jazz - Season 9 (All Day; $10-$20)

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S.17th St.; 910-395-5999

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $27)—Wilmington Water Tours LLC, 212 S. Water St.

Open Mic, hosted by James Jones (8pm; Free) —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-7632223

Jazz - Season 9 (All Day; $10-$20)

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

The Drum Circle with Ron (7:30pm; Free) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.; 910-762-2091

Robert Cray (7:30pm; $24-$48) —Wilson Center, 703 N. 3rd St.

Jazz - Season 9 (All Day; $10-$20)

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

—Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 Oleander Dr.

DareDevil Improv Comedy Classes (11am; $100)—Hannah Block Community Center, 120 S. 2nd St.

Dubtown Cosmonauts (3pm; Free; Jam)

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $27)

—Wilmington Water Tours LLC, 212 S. Water St.

12 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

The Dunking Nuggets Comedy Tour (7:30pm; $8-$12)

Port City’s Top Comic (7pm; $10)

—Pour Taproom, 201 North Front St.

(as little as $29 a week!)

—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.

—Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379

CC Martin (9pm; Free; Country)

FEATURE YOUR LIVE MUSIC, FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS

—Buffalo Wild Wings, 5353 Carolina Beach Rd.

Open Mic (6pm; Free)

Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.

Jazz - Season 9 (All Day; $10-$20)

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999

Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)

—The Blind Elephant, 21 N. Front St. Unit F

Karaoke Wednesdays (8pm; Free)

—Ibiza Nightclub Wilmington, 118 Market St.

CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTHEASTERN NC

SHOWSTOPPERS

X MARKS THE SPOT: Folks can catch X the band at Charlotte’s Neighborhood Theatre or Carrborro’s Cat’s Cradle in September. Courtesy photo.

NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE N DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 8/31: Houndmouth, Liz Cooper & The Stampede 9/5: X 9/6: Jonathon “Boogie” Long 9/7: Melodime and Young Mister 9/8: Ani DiFranco and more 9/11: Jukebox the Ghost & Greeting Committee THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 9/8: Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular 9/13: Lil Baby 9/14: Trail by Fire THE FILLMORE UNDERGROUND 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 9/8: Honky Tonk Outlaws 9/9: Wild Child 9/14: Alina Baraz KOKA BOOTH AMPHITHEATRE 8003 REGENCY PKWY., CARY, NC (919) 462-2052 8/29: Pickin’ in the Pines with GrassSt. 9/5: Kaylin Roberson Band with Victor DiMarko 9/12: Garrett Newton Band and Carolina Lightnin’ 9/19: Diamond Creek DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 123 VIVIAN ST. DURHAM, NC (919) 688-3722 9/8: Jo Koy 9/10: Jordan Peterson 9/16: Russell Peters

RED HAT AMPHITHEATER 500 SOUTH MCDOWELL ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 996-8800 8/29: O.A.R. 9/7-8: Hopscotch 9/13: 4U - A Symphonic Celebration of Prince LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111 8/31: GlowRage 9/1: The Black Lillies 9/6-8: Hopscotch Music Festival 9/14: Cherub w/ Maddy O’neal CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 8/30: Slaughter Beach, Dog, Thin Lips (Back) 8/31: The Mattson 2 and Astronauts, Etc. (Back) 8/31: Interstellar Overdrive 9/1: Obituary and Exmortus 9/2: Bumpin Uglies and Sons of Paradise (Back) 9/4: X 9/6: Melodime and Young Mister (Back) MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE., DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875 8/29: Joe Mande 8/31: The Shoaldiggers THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 8/29: ZOSO 8/30: Houndmouth, Liz Cooper & the Stampede 8/31: Emo Philips with Art Sturtevant 9/2: High On Fire, Obituary, Black Tusk and more 9/5: Shutterings, Shadow Show and Okapi

FREE! • FRIDAY NIGHTS! • RIVERFRONT PARK • MUSIC STARTS AT 6:30PM

MAY 25

JULY 20 Funky Monks

JUNE 1 Red Zeppelin

JULY 27 Breakfast Club

JUNE 8 Hey Johnny Park

AUG 3

JUNE 15

AUG 10

JUNE 22 The Core

AUG 17 Skydog

JUNE 29 20 Ride

AUG 24 Abbey Road Live

JULY 6

AUG 31 Satisfaction

JULY 13 Departure

Beer and wine for sale with valid ID; outside beverages, food, coolers, and pets prohibited.

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 13

ARTS>>ART

SATIRICAL SCULPTURE:

Renowned sculptor Michael Aurbach comes to Wilmington armed with a scathing wit

N

BY: JAMES MCCREA

ot everyone is at home in the company of post-modern art, as evidenced by barely-audible murmurs of “I don’t get it” at any given art museum.

Such has been the case ever since Picasso started fragmenting faces in the early 1900s. Art has become even more abstract throughout time, but there are always alternatives for anyone who feels frustrated by the haze of obscure ideas.

Michael Aurbach offers a particularly biting alternative for Wilmington’s art scene in a month-long exhibition at UNCW’s Cultural Arts Gallery. His large steel sculptures embrace specificity and convey messages about society and institutionalized power structures through clever details and careful metalwork. There are no lengthy explanations to be found. Aurbach believes art has an innate ability to communicate ideas.

“I tend to go into a teaching mode and demystify things,” he explains. “I believe in objects, their power, and artistic processes.

I don’t think I’m doing anything new. I rely heavily on artistic historical precedents, but I put my own personal twist on it.”

After spending three decades teaching art at Vanderbilt University, winning numerous awards, and participating in more than 80 solo exhibitions, as well as countless group shows, Aurbach is just as well-versed in art theory as he is in metalworking. He inserts old-world architectural motifs—classical arches and gothic spires—into post-industrial imagery. The results are immersive installations that are oppressive, while seemingly vacant simultaneously. But there’s more to Aurbach’s work than art history tropes. His immense Roman archways resonate the sublime but lead to the absurd.

His piece “Administrative Spectacle” demonstrates the dichotomy by leading viewers through an archway into a room filled with black urinals where seats should be. All of them face an empty space, corded off by steel railings, overseen by megaphones and surveillance cameras. Aurbach’s Orwellian vision is less speculative fantasy than it is commentary on how art and education are manipulated by boardroom politics.

“I didn’t want to be a pest,” he reveals.

“But I was very frustrated, and I’d speak

In following exhibitions, Aurbach faced censorship over the same work. While participating in a showcase of Southern modern art in Hunstville, Alabama, he was told to obscure the offending item from view. Not wanting to offend the public, the museum gave Aurbach an ultimatum that potentially negated his entire concept.

up about it. I was always at war with the administration at Vanderbilt because nobody could define what the expectations were of me as an artist. I was the fourth sculptor hired in five years. Nobody was surviving that job. When no one defines what the professional expectations are, how are you supposed to start? What kind of shows do you do? Where should you show? How much work do you produce? Nobody was giving me answers to those questions.”

“The museum director said, ‘I can’t show this piece unless you screw the cover of the book down,’” he recalls. “He felt the community was too conservative to deal with that subject. So, I actually screwed it down because I already drove the piece a couple hundred miles and didn’t want to lose credit for a museum show. I guess I sold out!”

Aurbach’s struggles with academia are evidenced in a smaller piece, “Cassandra.”

Two steel structures face-off against one another, with a faux-brick tower lurching over a composite figure, with a megaphone body and a whistle head. The checkered floor evokes a chessboard. Is it a stalemate or a decisive step away from victory? Aurbach considers it something of a self-portrait, likening his battles to the prophet Cassandra from classical Greek mythology.

“She foretold the fall of Troy,” he elaborates. “Cassandra was mortal and had the power of prophecy. She could foretell the future. The god Apollo had the hots for her and put the moves on her. She rejects him, so he puts the whammy on her. [As punishment] she retains the power of prophecy, but nobody will believe her. That’s how I felt all the time.”

However, Aurbach’s work isn’t entirely about fighting authority. Recent pieces focus on contemporary viewpoints that push aside both art and artists themselves in favor of dealing with seemingly unrelated topics. He takes special umbrage with critical theory, which initially used literature to make points about society and culture. Aurbach sees it as an intrusion into the world of visual arts that elevates ideas over artwork itself.

“I’ve got four pieces about critical theory, which to me is the biggest scam ever pulled on the visual arts,” he exclaims. “When the critical theorist doesn’t acknowledge that the object or process mean anything, or they say what the artist has to say means nothing . . . [i]t makes no sense to me!”

Maintaining his interest in art history, Aurbach creates small plexiglass objects intended to house the secrets of critical theorists. They range from a pair of medieval reliquaries, a two-volume tome, entitled “C’est Nothing, Deux Nothing,” and a safe with functioning padlock. Enclosed within each transparent object is precisely noth-

14 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

CASSANDRA: Michael Aurbach merges Orwellian parable, classical myth, and personal symbolism in ‘Cassandra.’ Courtesy photo

ing; they’re all empty.

“People forget theory is what you have when you lack facts,” he laughs. “They use the object as a springboard into politics, gender and things of that nature. It becomes an avenue to talk about something else. So, in that way, they don’t have to be dealing with the visual issues. It’s protecting something that doesn’t really exist.”

The largest of these pieces, “Critical Theorist,” also garnered Aurbach the most grief from exhibiting galleries. Much like his other work, viewers need to pay attention to fully get Aurbach’s message. A long metal table houses an array of pipes, faucets, pots, and funnels, all resembling a Rube Goldberg machine. At the end of it all is a conveyor belt with a lone book. Anyone who opens the book sees the final product of all the commotion—a vibrator.

“It’s a problematic piece,” he reflects.

“The first time I showed it, it was a public facility called the Explorium [in Mobile, Alabama]. Initially when you open the book, there was a vibrator in there because it’s all about self-pleasure with critical theory. Well, someone stole the vibrator in that show! If I filed an insurance claim on a vibrator, the publicity might be pretty interesting.”

Ultimately, Aurbach’s work embraces humor. A smirk lies in the heart of his metallic sculptures, infusing his take on cold post-modern dystopia with a certain sarcastic warmth. It takes great stamina to deal with bureaucracy, and Aurbach’s sardonic sensibilities stuck with him throughout his administrative warfare. Despite never getting in serious trouble because of his viewpoints, he saw colleagues face liabilities over their artistic decisions while others rose to the rank of chairperson simply for groveling to the deans. Now retired from Vanderbilt with the title of professor emeritus, Aurbach is finally freed from all the workplace politics. However, he still worries about censorship in art with the emergence of overt political correctness.

“I do miss the classroom and teaching,” he admits. “But I don’t miss all the politics and the risk. I’ve got a pretty edgy sense of humor. If I say the wrong thing once and I’m toast. Everybody’s offended by everything.

If you’re going to talk about art, you’ve got to open up the box when it comes to subject matter. You’re going to hit a minefield no matter what you do.”

Aurbach will present a brief presentation during Thursday’s opening reception; music and refreshments offered. His work will be on display through September 30.

DETAILS:

Michael Aurbach: Solo Exhibition

Opening reception: August 30, 5:30-7 p.m.

On display through September 30 UNCW Cultural Arts Gallery 601 S College Rd. www.aurbachsculpture.com

WHAT’S HANGING AROUND THE PORT CITY

GALLERYGUIDE

ARTEXPOSURE!

22527 Highway 17N Hampstead, NC (910) 803-0302 (910) 330-4077 Tues. - Sat. 10am - 5pm (or by appt.) www.artexposure50.com

One-man show “Escape into Plein Air” features Robert Rigsby. The show will highlight oil paintings from Rob’s 6 month trip visiting all fifty national parks. Rob also wrote a book about his journey and it is available under the same name on Amazon.

ART IN BLOOM GALLERY

210 Princess St. Tues. - Sat. 10am - 6pm (or by appt., Sun. and Mon.) (484) 885-3037 www.aibgallery.com

Art in Bloom Gallery is in a renovated 19th-century horse stable and presents an eclectic mix of original art by emerging and established artists. View our featured exhibit “Last Song of Summer: Ceramics

by Traudi Thornton and Paintings by Pam Toll” from August 31 - September 29. The opening reception will be held on Friday, September 7th, from 6-8 pm. Visit with the artists and enjoy refreshments with live music by violinist, Shirley Lebo. In addition, view the new sculpture, “Without Prejudice” by Paul Hill. The sculpture is in our courtyard and part of the Pedestrian Art Program organized by the Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County in collaboration with the City of Wilmington.

ART OF FINE DINING www.aibgallery.com

In addition to our gallery at 210 Princess Street, Art in Bloom Gallery partners with local businesses to exhibit original art in other locations. Current exhibits include: “Small Collage Art by Elizabeth Darrow” opens August 8 through October 7 at Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Street.

“Waking from Dreams: Paintings by Mark Gansor” continues at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street until October 15.

“Archival Ink Transfer Prints by Bob Bryden” and “Photography by (Joe) P. Wiegmann” continues at The District

Kitchen and Cocktails,1001 N. 4th Street until September 4.

“Unearthed: Landscape Paintings by Topher Alexander and Kirah Van Sickle” continues at Pinpoint Restaurant,114 Market Street until September 10.

CHARLES JONES AFRICAN ART

311 Judges Rd., Unit 6-E cjart@bizec.rr.com (910) 794-3060 Mon. – Fri. 10am - 12:30 pm 1:30 pm - 4 pm Open other hours and weekends by appointment www.cjafricanart.com

African art: Museum quality African Art from West and Central Africa. Traditional African art for the discerning collector.

Current Exhibition: Yoruba beadwork and Northern Nigerian sculpture. Appraisal services, curatorial services and educational exhibitions also available.

Over 30 years experience in Tribal Arts.

Our clients include many major museums.

NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY

271 N. Front St. (919) 343-8997 Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) www.newelementsgallery.com

Now exhibiting “Neo+stalgia” featuring the work of local artist Marlowe. Figurative images from pulp fiction are put into beautiful multilayered compositions that spark the imagination. Runs through September.

WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY 200 Hanover St. (bottom level, parking deck) Mon.-Fri., noon-5pm http://cfcc.edu/danielsgallery

Now featuring the work of Mike Brining through September 28. The gallery will host a a closing reception September 28, 6 - 9 p.m. Brining’s exhibit will use paintings and sculptures to demonstrate the transitional states that a visual image or icon may occupy in our perception—from the beginning state of a black and white conception through to the finalization of the image presented in full color. Brining will hold an artist at the gallery on Wednesday, September 5 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 15

•••••••••••••••• UPCOMING EVENTS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 30 | 7:00 P.M. Men’s Soccer vs Jacksonville

(Tabling by Camden Forest, Wilshire Landing and Plato’s Lofts)

UNCW WOMEN’S SOCCER HOSTS THE COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT UNCW SOCCER INVITATIONAL FRIDAY, AUGUST 31

5:00 P.M. ~ Fairleigh Dickinson vs Clevland State 7:30 P.M. ~ UNCW vs Kent State

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

10:30 A.M. ~ Fairleigh Dickinson vs Kent State 1:00 P.M. ~ UNCW vs Clevland State (Game Sponsored by McDonald’s)

Postgame Autograph Session

•••••••••••••••• 16 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

DISCOVER NEW MUSIC AT 98.3 THE PENGUIN PLAYLIST SAMPLE:

Complete Schedule: wilmingtonwatertours.net SUNSET CRUISES with LIVE MUSIC Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays Now boarding @ 6:30pm • Departing @ 7pm Thursday, 8/30 - Kim Dicso • Friday, 8/31 - Kim Dicso Saturday, 9/1 - Monica Jane • Sunday, 9/2 - Jim Nelson AWESOME MUSIC ~ FULL BAR

Captain Doug’s Invite to Our Fall Cruise on The NE Cape Fear Saturday, September 1st @ 10am • 2 Hours $17 Adults, $10 Kids

Upcoming Cruises

Sept. 16th - Civil War & more with Dr. Chris Fonvielle Sept. 23rd - Pirates of the Cape Fear with local historian & author Jack Fryar Sept. 30 - Breakfast with the Birds with local Bird expert Jill Peleuses from Wild Bird & Garden Oct.18th - See ya’ later Alligator - cruise with a Live Alligator from NC Aquarium Oct. 28th - Black River Cruise Nov. 4th - Civil War Prisoner Exchange cruise

Visit us on the Riverwalk! 212 S. Water Street 910-338-3134 • email: info@wilmingtonwt.com

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

W I N N E R

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

Follow us

NEW MUSIC ADDED:

BRETT DENNEN - HERE'S LOOKING AT YOU KID ELLE KING - SHAME MT. JOY - JENNY JENKINS ERIC LINDELL - REVOLUTION MOON TAXI - GOOD AS GOLD

UPCOMING PENGUIN SHOWS:

Believe it or not Fall is sneaking up on us already. We want to immerse ourselves in the change and offer to others the same experience. There is no better way to do this than the experience of the forever changing NE Cape Fear River as she moves forward into the season. Affordable for the entire family!

e

SUGARLOAF - GREEN-EYED LADY CAT POWER - SING ONE FOR ME, ARETHA RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE - FEVER PITCH THE DEVIL MAKES THREE - BAD IDEA ETTA JAMES - SUNDAY KIND OF LOVE THE SPENCER LEE BAND - KISSING TREE DIRTY HEADS - STAND TALL SHOVELS & ROPE - BIRMINGHAM WIDESPREAD PANIC W/ STURGILL SIMPSON - COME TOGETHER WINGS - BAND ON THE RUN

BAR ON BOARD WITH ALL ABC PERMITS

PHILLIP PHILLIPS (GLA 9/7) TRAMPLED BY TURTLES (GLA 9/19) KALEO (GLA 9/20) RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE (GLA 9/21 AND 9/22) IRATION (GLA 9/26) MOON TAXI (GLA 9/28) MAVIS STAPLES (GLA 10/21)

STEEP CANYON RANGERS (GLA 10/26) BRETT DENNEN (BAC 11/4)

SPECIALTY SHOWS:

THE EVENING EXPERIMENT WITH ERIC MILLER, WEDNESDAYS 7-9PM THE FRIDAY NIGHT PANIC JAM FRIDAYS AT 8PM ACOUSTIC CAFE SATURDAYS FROM 7-9AM ETOWN SATURDAYS AT 9AM PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC HOUR SUNDAYS AT 8AM

WWW.983THEPENGUIN.COM

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 17

16 S. Front St. • 910.772.9151 Downtown Wilmington

Offering a variety of craft beer, ciders and wine for you to pay by the ounce • 70 taps • Featuring ILM and NC based breweries • Stouts, porters, sours, ciders

Ask our be er hosts to fill a 32 ounce crowler fo r you to take home !

• Rich reds and crisp whites in the 120 sq. ft. bank vault

sushI SPECIALs Voted Best Sushi

Two specialty rolls for $19.95

Three regular rolls for $12.95

• Full menu with variety of eats under $10 • Multiple TVs • Live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings • Great venue for party’s and special events

Specials valid only at the downtown location

Find Us

18 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

REEL TO REEL

ARTS>>FILM

MATERIALISTIC MECCA:

films this week CINEMATIQUE

Grating caricatures drown in the shallows of ‘Crazy Rich Asians’

S

Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut St. 7 p.m. • $7

BY: ANGHUS

August 29-31 (additional 4 p.m. screening on Aug. 29): “Eighth Grade” takes a painfully accurate and tender look at one eighth grader’s last week of middle school. As Kayla Korner (played by 13-year-old Elsie Fisher) navigates adolescence in 2018, the film highlights the role of social media and technology in moments that feel embarrassingly true to life. Middle school sucks. This film definitely doesn’t. (Rated R, 94 min.)

ometimes we have to leave the safety of our comfort zones and expose ourselves to new things; revisit that which we once found repugnant. It applies to all areas of life but especially the arts. Individual tastes can change over time. Things once considered blasé may now tickle the palette in new and exciting ways. It is the logic strain I latched onto as I walked up to the counter to purchase a ticket to the new romantic comedy “Crazy Rich Asians.”

Rachel (Constance Wu) is a successful economics professor with charisma, class and sass. Her boyfriend Nick (Henry Golding) is absolutely smitten, and wants to take her to a wedding in his home of Singapore to introduce her to the family. What she doesn’t know is Nick is the heir to a real-estate fortune worth billions; he hails from a celebrity family in Southeast Asia. Think “Keeping Up With the Kard-Asians.”

The characters consist of: a beautiful philanthropist and fashion tastemaker; a vain businessman, always interested in striking the right pose; and a flamboyant filmmaker. They’re an eclectic blend of personalities held together by the iron will of their mother, Eleanor (Michelle Yeoh). She’s an ice-cold matriarch who believes in family above all else, which unfortunately for Rachel, includes girlfriends.

I kind of hated this movie, and it’s all based on one over-arching grudge—a single, monumental gripe that poked at me the entire time, like a two-hour tack being jabbed into the soft underside of my arms. I thought Constance Wu and Harold Golding were perfectly fine in the lead roles. They’re both likable, practically to a fault. There is zero edge on them. The “hate” part is reserved for the world the characters inhabit and the characters who populate it. I’m going to take a moment to focus on the “crazy rich” part of “Crazy Rich Asians.”

The world of “Crazy Rich Asians” is a materialistic mecca—an opulent paradise of megabillions where every itch is scratched and every indulgence is satisfied. It’s so removed from reality, it felt like I was watching some kind of futuristic menagerie where the most obnoxious rich people on Earth were housed for historical purposes. It is a collection of loud, grating, super-bitchy, catty caricatures, who look like they were clothed by the leftovers from Nicki Minaj and Cardi B’s red-carpet wardrobe.

The super-rich, upper-crust existence is repellent. They make Jay Gatsby look like Jay Cutler. I kind of understand the point of how it’s presented. Rachel is an outsider, and this world is foreign and unrecognizable, loud and

EMPTY ENDEAVOR: Anghus says ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ is just irritating to watch. Photo courtesy of Warner Bros.

cloistered. Every time the film leaned into the avarice and obnoxiousness of its environment, I hoped Jigsaw from “Saw” would show up, lock them all in chained dog collars, and force them to fight to the death, fashioning weapons out of their own teeth. I get the exact same urge whenever I see any of the “Real Housewives.”

I thought back to other popular romantic comedies, which dealt with the super-wealthy.

“Pretty Woman” had a heartless businessman, but he was buoyed by the down-on-her-luck hooker with a heart of gold. Seeing her marvel at his world was fun for the audience. Watching her try on ball gowns and make a faux pas at a fancy restaurant was fun and made us empathetic for the fish-out-of-water story. Rachel is a successful middle-class New Yorker. Her “fishout-of-water story” starts in a bottle of Smart Water and she has to wade through Evian. She is a person who doesn’t need Nick’s money or prestige. In fact, it seems pretty clear she’d be better off without it.

Instead of a story about a guy giving up his super-rich, super-awful family for the woman he loves, it’s about Rachel fighting to earn the respect of his mother and the traditions she values more than people. The end of the movie features a shindig at the top of a huge skyscraper with fireworks, where our newly reunited lovers have a party with their family. It felt more like Rachel finding a manageable and temporary solution to her problem. She’s been accepted by Nick’s terrible family, but what exactly is that worth?

I think there was a solid drama lost in this absolute mess of a romantic comedy. There are concepts and ideas at play that could have

been interesting, except for stock characters occupying the periphery. In a better film, Rachel’s indoctrination into Nick’s family could have been a tougher pill to swallow. There are some attempts to show the mega-rich having their own problems to deal with, but it’s so shallow. In fact, the whole movie is puddle deep, poorly made trash. I’m sure some people will find the film far less irritating than I. The whole endeavor felt so empty—a flashy, style-oversubstance film with characters that range from Milquetoast to mind-numbingly annoying.

DETAILS:

Crazy Rich Asians Rated PG-13 Directed by Jon M. Chu Starring Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh

September 3-5 (additional 4 p.m. screening on Sept. 5): “Three Identical Strangers” follows the true story of identical triplets separated at birth and reunited only by happenstance. At 19, their remarkable reunion becomes a global sensation as the media gets hold of their story, but also unearths an unimaginable secret that has radical repercussions. In this surreal and surprising film, nature versus nurture takes center stage against a backdrop of highly questionable research ethics and superb storytelling. (Rated PG13, 96 min.)

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encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 19

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20 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

ACTING OUT

ARTS>>THEATRE

HITTING THE BULLSEYE:

more on stage...

Panache scores with ode to the Western classic, ‘The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance’

T

BY: CHASE HARRISON

here once was a time when Western film ruled cinema. Week after week, a new tale of a white-hat-wearing sheriff driving the black-hat outlaw out of town were seen by thousands upon thousands. They were blockbusters of their time. Today’s over-saturated superherofilm market has a lot in common with the bygone era of the Western—and I don’t mean the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it nature on which they are released nowadays. No, it’s the stripped-down, simple story of morality, expanded upon and retold so often, their focal points rise above normal status and become the stuff of legends.

Presented for first time ever on a North Carolina stage, Panache Theatrical Productions—spearheaded by Wilmington theatre staples Holli Saperstein and Anthony Lawson, and directed by Steve Vernon—brings the Wild West to the southeast coast, with “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance” by Jethro Compton. The production is being staged for a brief two-week run at the North Front Theatre.

The only real crime committed by Liberty Valance is it doesn’t run longer—because the show should be seen by as many as the theater can hold nightly. It’s a fantastic production and captures the essence of the films created by Sergio Leone or John Ford. The stage at the North Front Theatre is inarguably the best venue to have brought this play to life. Its aged appearance lends itself well to the show’s world—it vibes well as a much lived-in saloon. When paired with Lance Howell’s outstanding set design, the audience is transported to the town of Two Trees and the age of the gunslinger. Weathered planks of wood run up the set’s frame, all the way down to the traditional swinging bar doors Howell has crafted as an authentic Old West saloon.

The set spans the full range of the stage and builds a world within Prairie Belle perfectly, as well as shapes the community outside of it just as evenly.

The set is matched by Beau Mumford’s simple, effective lighting. Hanging lamps burn from the walls to illuminate the stage. The audience is in for a visual treat upon stepping into the theater. The production value is high and attention to detail is top-notch.

Authenticity was the word buzzing around my head while watching the play and it would seem to be the same word flying around the head of its director, Steve Vernon. The set gives the actors the proper

playground to run around in, but it is the onpoint costuming of Stephanie Aman which allows the production’s world of pretend to completely appear whole. From the wornout wares of the cowboys to the prime and proper suits of the city folk, the costuming serves to inform the audience of status and how the characters see themselves. A prime example is in the style of spur worn

by Valance (Robin Dale Robertson), which rings out through the theatre (even off stage) with every step the outlaw takes. It creates an ominous sense of a man whose reputation literally precedes him.

And then we have the peacemakers. The show’s armorer, Charley Coleman, has done a true justice to his title. Each character’s firearm matches, like the costuming of their individual personalities and styles of the period. It’s great work between two departments and comes off seamlessly.

The action of the play begins with a funeral service in the Prairie Belle saloon for a local “hero”; it is being attended by the new state’s Senator, Ransome Foster (Bradly Cox), a man who made a name for himself years ago in the town. Foster is interviewed by a reporter, Jake Dowitt (Atwood Boyd, who rocks a great stache and is the story’s narrator, which brings to mind the voice of History Channel documentaries). Dowitt is trying to find out the story behind the man who shot Liberty Valance.

The event in Ransome’s life would forever define him.

Ransome Foster is the archetypal fishout-of-water role—a man living in New York City, who wants to stake out a life of adventure in the untamed West. Cox comes off wooden at times, yet plays well into his overall outsider identity. As the play progresses, he believably shifts from Doc Hollywood to Doc Holliday in the climatic gun fight.

Foster’s first day of adventure does not go well, as he is jumped, robbed and beaten to an inch of his life by the Valance gang.

He is saved by the noble cowboy, Bert Barricune (Woody Stefl), who rides along and brings him to the safe haven of Prairie Belle—owned and operated by hellcat Hallie Jackson (Jenn Ingulli) and her adopted brother, “The Reverend,” Jim (Juan Fernandez). It’s with the introduction of these town folks the show finds its own character, and where Ransome finds the courage to face this new uncivilized world.

Fernandez’s Reverend Jim is the welcoming smile and out-reached hand Ransome needs upon arrival. The Reverend shows, even in a world of dog-eat-dog,

kindness can be found. Fernandez brings warmth to the role, so when misfortune befalls him, it shakes the story and audience to their core.

Ingulli is pure energy as Hallie Jackson, ping-ponging around her saloon and letting all know she is queen on high within its walls. While in Act One, her performance can come off as one note—albeit a good note—in Act Two she shines. One note becomes a wonderful overture and gives way to a gamut of emotion the character had kept bottled inside her.

Stefl’s Bert is a cowboy through and through—the best shot from Two Tree to Mexico, but only because he hasn’t been to Mexico. Stefl perfectly embodies Bert, and creates a heroic role that shows not all knights wear shining armor. They can be caked in dried mud, burnt red by the blazing sun, and understand that to win, sometimes, sadly, they have to lose. Stefl stands strong and brings to mind John Wayne. He is a perfect mirror and foil to Cox’s Foster.

The man of the hour, Liberty Valance, comes to life from Robin Dale Robertson, who takes the reins and rides the marvels of the title role brilliantly. He creates a vile, magnetic villain, who is terrifying and alluring. I’s impossible for the audience to tear their eyes away from him. His swagger allows everyone to forget the threat he actually holds over the characters. Though, as quick as a rattlesnake’s strike, Robertson reminds how, in his presence, they could be living their last moments. When he forces Jim into an unbeknownst game of life and death, I found myself on the edge of my seat—no hoping the tension would break.

His iconic black hat often obscures his eyes to cast more darkness over those around him. It’s all unsettling; he could very well be soulless. The work Robertson has done in shaping Valance is a thing of wonder.

“The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance” is a first-rate night out to the theatre. It offers crackerjack timing and a bit of good luck to do what is most important in the field of art: entertain.

DETAILS:

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance

Through Sept. 2, Thurs.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 3 p.m.

N. Front Theatre (neé City Stage) 21 N. Front St. Tickets: $18-$25 • 910-679-6037 panachetheatre.com

Violet

Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 7-9, 8 p.m.; Sun. matinee, 3 p.m.

Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut St. (910) 632-2285 • www.thalianhall.org Tickets: $27-$32

Violet Karl is a woman with a plan.

Disfigured in a childhood accident, she is determined to alter the path of her life with faith healing. In search of her miracle, she leaves her hometown of Spruce Pine, NC, to journey by bus to Tulsa, home of the televangelist she believes can offer her this miraculous transformation. Instead, she learns it is the journey you take in life that helps you

discover who you are, and she finds a very different kind of salvation. Based on a story by Doris Betts, an acclaimed North Carolina writer and presented by Opera House Theatre Company.

Agnes of God

Sept. 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 8 p.m.; Sun. matinee, 3 p.m.

Cape Fear Playhouse 613 Castle St. (910) 367-5237 www.bigdawgproductions.org Tickets: $18-$22

Summoned to a convent, Dr. Martha Livingstone, a court-appointed psychiatrist, is charged with assessing the sanity of a novice accused of murdering her newborn. Miriam Ruth, the Mother Superior, determinedly keeps young Agnes from the doctor, further arousing Livingstone’s suspicions. Who killed the infant, and who fathered the tiny victim? Livingstone’s questions force all three women to reexamine the meaning of faith and the power of love, leading to a dramatic, compelling climax.

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 21

SOUTHEASTERN NC’S PREMIER DINING GUIDE

GRUB & GUZZLE

INDOCHINE • www.indochinewilmington.com AMERICAN

BLUEWATER WATERFRONT GRILL Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of sailing ships and the Intracoastal Waterway while dining at this popular casual American restaurant in Wrightsville Beach. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Favorites include jumbo lump crab cakes, succulent seafood lasagna, crispy coconut shrimp and an incredible Caribbean fudge pie. Dine inside or at their award-winning outdoor patio and bar, which is the location for their lively Waterfront Music Series every Sunday April - October. Large parties welcome. Private event space available. BluewaterDining.com. 4 Marina Street, Wrightsville Beach, NC. (910) 256-8500.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon-Fri 11a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sat & Sun 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Waterfront dining ■ MUSIC: Music every Sunday in Summer ■ WEBSITE: www.bluewaterdining.com BLUE SURF CAFÉ Sophisticated Food…Casual Style. We offer a

menu that has a heavy California surf culture influence while still retaining our Carolina roots. We provide a delicate balance of flavors and freshness in a comfortable and inviting setting. We offer a unique breakfast menu until noon daily, including specialty waffles, skillet hashes and unique breakfast sandwiches. Our lunch menu is packed with a wide variety of options, from house roasted pulled pork, to our mahi sandwich and customer favorite, meatloaf sandwich. Our dinner features a special each night along with our favorite house entrees: Braised Beef Brisket, Mojo Pork and Mahi. All of our entrees are as delicious as they are inventive.

We also have a full beer and wine list. Come try the “hidden gem” of Wilmington today. 250 Racine Drive Ste. 1, Wilmington 910-523-5362.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: Monday to Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Breakfast served until noon each day!

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily Specials, Gluten Free Menu, Gourmet Hot Chocolates, Outdoor Patio, New Artist event first Friday of every month and Kids Menu.

22 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

■ WEBSITE: www.bluesurfcafe.com CAM CAFÉ CAM Café, located within the CAM delivers delightful surprises using fresh, local ingredients.

The café serves lunch with seasonal options Tuesday through Saturday, inspired “small plates” on Thursday nights, an elegant yet approachable dinner on Thursday and brunch every Sunday. Look for a combination of fresh, regular menu items along with daily specials. As part of dining in an inspiring setting, the galleries are open during CAM Café hours which makes it the perfect destination to enjoy art of the plate along with the art of the museum. 3201 S 17th St. (910) 777-2363.

■ SERVING LUNCH, BRUNCH & DINNER: Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 2 pm; Thursday evening, 5pm-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.camcafe.org ELIJAH’S Since 1984, Elijah’s has been Wilmington, NC’s outdoor dining destination. We feature expansive indoor and outdoor waterfront dining, with panoramic views of riverfront sunsets. As a Casual

courtesy photo American Grill and Oyster Bar, Elijah’s offers everything from fresh local seafood and shellfish to pastas, sandwiches, and Certified Angus Beef selections. We offer half-priced oysters from 4-6 every Wednesday & live music with our Sunday Brunch from 11-3. Whether you are just looking for a great meal & incredible scenery, or a large event space for hundreds of people, Elijah’s is the place to be.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11:30-10:00; Friday and Saturday 11:30-11:00 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Wilmington; kids menu available HENRY’S A local favorite, Henry’s is the ‘place to be’ for great food, a lively bar and awesome patio dining. Henry’s serves up American cuisine at its finest that include entrees with fresh, local ingredients. Come early for lunch, because it’s going to be packed. Dinner too! Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to 30 people. 2508 Independence Boulevard, Wilmington, NC. (910) 793.2929.

SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. - Mon. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Tues.- Fri.: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sat.:

PORT CITY FOOD LOVERS, REJOICE! Courtesy photo from Henry's Restaurant and Bar

Join us for the most delicious week of FALL

participating restaurants DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON Anne Bonny's Bar and Grill Circa 1922 Dram + Morsel Elijah’s The Little Dipper Nikki’s Fresh Gourmet & Sushi On A Roll Pilot House Pour Taproom Rollz Ruth's Chris Steak House Steam Restaurant and Bar YoSake

MIDTOWN

Antonio's Pizza & Pasta Carolina Ale House Casey’s Buffet Hops Supply Co. J. Michael's Philly Deli La Costa Mexican Restaurant Might As Well Bar & Grill

Okami Japanese Steakhouse Olympia Restaurant Round Bagels and Donuts Yoshi Sushi Your Pie

SOUTH WILMINGTON Antonio's Pizza & Pasta The Greeks Henry's Restaurant and Bar Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries J. Michael's Philly Deli Niche Kitchen & Bar Osteria Cicchetti Pizzeria IL Forno Slainte Irish Pub

NORTH WILMINGTON The Italian Bistro J. Michael's Philly Deli La Costa Mexican Restaurant The Melting Pot Osteria Cicchetti

Roko Italian Cuisine Si! Señor Modern Mex Symposium Restaurant & Bar True Blue Butcher & Table

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH Antonio's Pizza & Pasta Bluewater Waterfront Grill Boca Bay Oceanic Restaurant Watermans Brewing

PLEASURE ISLAND

Michael's Seafood Restaurant

LELAND

The Joyce Irish Pub

www.encorerestaurantweek.com encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 23

10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.

■ WEBSITE: www.henrysrestaurant.com

■ OPEN LUNCH AND DINNER: Tues.-Sun., 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.nichewilmington.com

HOPS SUPPLY CO. The combination of chef-inspired food and our craft bar makes Hops Supply Co. a comfortable and inviting gastropub that attracts guests of all types – especially a local crowd who can feel right at home whether ordering a classic favorite or trying a new culinary delight! At HopsCo, we are dedicated to the craft of excellent cuisine and delivering hops in its most perfect form, exemplified by our selection of craft beers. As hops are the heart of flavor for beer, our local seasonal ingredients are the soul of our culinary inspired American fare. 5400 Oleander Dr. (910) 833-8867.

■ OPEN: Mon-Thurs 10:57 am - 10 pm; Fri-Sat 10:57 am - 11 pm {Serving Brunch 10:57am – 3pm & bar open until midnight}; Brunch ALL DAY Sunday 9:57am – 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.hopssupplycompany.com

PINE VALLEY MARKET Pine Valley Market has reigned supreme in servicing the Wilmington community for years, securing encore’s Best-Of awards in catering, gourmet shop and butcher. Now, Kathy Webb and Christi Ferretti are expanding their talents into serving lunch in-house, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy ambience of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to childhood. Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is something for all palates.

Take advantage of their take-home frozen meals for nights that are too hectic to cook, and don’t forget to pick up a great bottle of wine to go with it.

3520 S. College Road, (910) 350-FOOD. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri.10 a.m.7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sun. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials and take-home frozen meals ■ WEBSITE: www.pinevalleymarket.com

NICHE Niche Kitchen and Bar features an eclectic menu, a large wine list, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. Close to Carolina Beach, Niche has a great selection of dishes from land to sea. All dishes are cooked to order, and Sundays features a great brunch menu!

Niche’s heated covered patio is perfect for anytime of the year and great for large parties. And their bar has a great assortment of wines, even offered half off by the glass on Tuesdays-Thursdays.

Open Tues. - Sun. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling 910399-4701.

ROADHOUSE OF WILMINGTON Roadhouse is an American-style restaurant and focuses on homemade, classic dishes, cooked to order, using fresh ingredients. They are located at in the old Saltworks building on Wrightsville Avenue and open at 8:00 a.m. for breakfast and lunch,

SPECIALS: Voted Best Fine Dining 2018

TUES. NIGHT: 1/2 P rice W ines by the G lass WED. NIGHT: 1/2 P rice D raft b eers sUn. brUnch: M iMosa s Pecial

HOURS: TUES. - SAT., 5 P.M. SUN. BRUNCH, 10 A.M. - 2 P.M.

ig: @rxrestaurantandbar fb: facebook.com/rxwilmington

WWW.RXWILMINGTON.COM 421 C astle s t . (910) 399 - 3080 24 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

and 5:00 p.m. for dinner. Breakfast is served 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., lunch from 11:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Look for daily specials and other important information online at www.facebook.com/ roadhousewilmington, or call (910) 765-1103.

Please, no reservations.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: 8 a.m. breakfast and lunch; 5 p.m. dinner ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: facebook.com/roadhousewilmington THE TROLLY STOP Trolly Stop Grill and Catering is a four store franchise in North Carolina. Trolly Stop Hotdogs opened in Wrightsville Beach in 1976. That store name has never changed. Since the Wrightsville Beach store, the newer stores sell hotdogs, hamburgers, beef and chicken cheese steaks, fries, hand dipped ice cream, milk shakes, floats and more.

Our types of dogs are: Southern (Trolly Dog, beef and pork), Northern (all beef), Smoke Sausage (pork), Fat Free (turkey), Veggie (soy).

Voted Best Hot Dog in Wilmington for decades.

Check our website trollystophotdogs.com for hours of operations, specific store offerings and telephone numbers, or contact Rick Coombs, 910-297-8416, rtrollystop@aol.com We offer catering serving 25-1000 people.

Franchises available ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ LOCATIONS: Wilmington, Fountain Dr. (910) 452-3952 Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-3921 Southport (910) 457-7017 Boone, NC (828) 265-2658 Chapel Hill, NC (919) 240-4206

■ WEBSITE: www.trollystophotdogs.com

ASIAN

HIBACHI TO GO Hibachi To Go is a locally owned, family business serving only the freshest ingredients with three locations. We invite you to try our menu items at either our Hampstead drive-thru location, where you can walk-up, take-out, or call in and pick up your meal or our Ogden location with dine-in or take-out options. Our new Wilmington location (894 South Kerr Avenue) offers dine-in, take-out or drive-thru service. We’re convenient for lunch and dinner.

Open 7 days 11 am - 9 pm. Our popular Daily Lunch Specials are featured Monday-Saturday for $4.99 with selections from our most popular menu items! We always have fresh seafood selections at Hibachi To Go, like delicious hand peeled shrimp, fresh local flounder and always a fresh catch fillet in-house. We scratch make every item on our menu daily. We offer your favorite hibachi meals and some of our originals like our pineapple won tons. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for the most up to date information on Hibachi To Go. Always fresh, great food at a super good price. Hampstead Phone: 910.270.9200. • Ogden Phone: 910.791.7800 Wilmington Phone: 910-833-8841 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open 7 days 11am-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, N. Wilmington, Hampstead ■ WEBSITE: www.hibachitogo.com INDOCHINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Orient

without having to leave Wilmington, join us at Indochine for a truly unique experience. Indochine brings the flavors of the Far East to the Port City, combining the best of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine in an atmosphere that will transport you and your taste buds. Relax in our elegantly decorated dining room, complete with antique Asian decor as well as contemporary artwork and music. Our diverse, friendly and efficient staff will serve you beautifully presented dishes full of enticing aromas and flavors. Be sure to try such signature items as the spicy and savory Roasted Duck with Red Curry, or the beautifully presented and delicious Shrimp and Scallops in a Nest. Be sure to save room for our world famous desert, the banana egg roll! We take pride in using only the freshest ingredients, and our extensive menu suits any taste. After dinner, enjoy specialty drinks by the koi pond in our Asian garden. Located at 7 Wayne Drive (beside the Ivy Cottage), (910) 251-9229.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues.- Fri. 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.; Sat. 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. for lunch. Mon.- Sun. 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. for dinner.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.indochinewilmington.com NIKKI’S FRESH GOURMET For more than a decade, Nikki’s downtown has served diners the best in sushi. With freshly crafted ingredients making up their rolls, sushi and sashimi, a taste of innovation comes with every order.

Daily they offer specialty rolls specific to the Front Street location, such as the My Yoshi, K-Town and Crunchy Eel rolls. But for less adventurous diners looking for options beyond sushi, Nikki’s serves an array of sandwiches, wraps and gyros, too. They also make it a point to host all dietary needs, omnivores, carnivores and herbivores alike. They have burgers and cheesesteaks, as well as falafal pitas and veggie wraps, as well as an extensive Japanese fare menu, such as bento boxes and tempura platters. Daily dessert and drink special are also on order. Check out their website and Facebook for more information. 16 S. Front St. (910) 771-9151.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am-10pm; Fri.-Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 12pm10pm. Last call on food 15 minutes before closing.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.nikkissushibar.com/ OKAMI JAPANESE HIBACHI STEAK HOUSE We have reinvented “Hibachi cuisine.” Okami Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse is like no other.

Our highly skilled chefs cook an incredible dinner while entertaining you on the way. Our portions are large, our drinks are less expensive, and our staff is loads of fun. We are committed to using quality ingredients and seasoning with guaranteed freshness. Our goal is to utilize all resources, domestically and internationally, to ensure we serve only the finest food products. We believe good, healthy food aids vital functions for well-being, both physically and mentally. Our menu consists of a wide range of steak, seafood, and chicken for the specially designed “Teppan Grill.” We also serve tastebud-tingling Japanese sushi, hand rolls, sashimi, tempura dishes, and noodle entrees. This offers our guests a complete Japanese dining experience. Our all-you-can-eat sushie menu and daily specials can be found at www.okamisteakhouse.com! 614 S College Rd. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am-2:30pm / 4-10pm; Fri., 11am-2:30pm / 4pm11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am-9:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.okamisteakhouse.com SZECHUAN 132 Craving expertly prepared Chinese food in an elegant atmosphere? Szechuan 132 Chinese Restaurant is your destination! Szechuan 132 has earned

the reputation as one of the finest contemporary Chinese restaurants in the Port City. Tastefully decorated with an elegant atmosphere, with an exceptional ingenious menu has deemed Szechuan 132 the best Chinese restaurant for years, hands down. 419 South College Road (in University Landing), (910) 799-1426.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Lunch specials ■ WEBSITE: www.szechuan132.com YOSAKE DOWNTOWN SUSHI LOUNGE Lively atmosphere in a modern setting, Yosake is the delicious Downtown spot for date night, socializing with friends, or any large dinner party. Home to the never-disappointing Shanghai Firecracker Shrimp! In addition to sushi, we offer a full Pan Asian menu including curries, noodle dishes, and the ever-popular Crispy Salmon or mouth-watering Kobe Burger. Inspired features change weekly showcasing our commitment to local farms. Full bar including a comprehensive sake list, signature cocktails, and Asian Import Bottles. 33 S. Front St., 2nd Floor (910) 763-3172.

■ SERVING DINNER: 7 nights a week @ 5PM; Sun-Wed until 10pm, Thurs until 11pm, Fri & Sat until Midnight.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: 1/2 Price Sushi/Appetizer Menu nightly from 5-7, until 8 on Mondays, and also 10-Midnight on Fri/Sat. Tuesday LOCALS NIGHT - 20% Dinner Entrees. Wednesday 80S NIGHT 80s music and menu prices. Sundays are the best deal downtown - Specialty Sushi and Entrees are Buy One, Get One $10 Off and 1/2 price Wine Bottles. Nightly Drink Specials. Gluten-Free Menu upon request. Complimentary Birthday Dessert.

■ WEBSITE: www.yosake.com. @yosakeilm on Twitter & Instagram. Like us on Facebook.

Pickles, Lettuce, Mayo, and Yellow Mustard.

You can also make your own! Not in the mood for a bagel? Don’t worry, we have ciabatta bread, croissants, Kaiser rolls, biscuits, wraps, salads, bowls, omelettes, and more! Make your lunch a combo for $1.50 more, and get a small drink, potato salad or chips, and a pickle spear. Visit us at 5906 Oleander Drive or 7220 Wrightsville Avenue right before the drawbridge to Wrightsville Beach. Look out for our third location, coming to Monkey Junction soon!.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown and Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Homemade bagels, biscuits, croissants, sandwiches, and more!

■ WEBSITE: www.BeachBagels.biz

ning weekly kids variety show, monthly Sunday Jazz Brunches, movie, comedy and live music events. Award-winning chef, Denise Gordon, and a fabulous service staff pair scrumptious multi-course themed meals and cocktails with our dinner shows in a theatre-themed venue. Dinner theater at its best! Reservations highly suggested. 19 S. 10th Street (910) 399.3NOW (3669).

Hours vary.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Dinner shows, jazz brunches, and more

ROUND BAGELS AND DONUT Round Bagels and Donuts features 17 varieties of New York-style bagels, baked fresh daily on site in a steam bagel oven. Round offers a wide variety of breakfast and lunch bagel sandwiches, grilled and fresh to order. Round also offers freshmade donuts daily! Stop by Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., and on Sunday, 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Homemade bagels, cream cheeses, donuts, sandwiches, coffee and more ■ WEBSITE: www.roundbagelsanddonuts.com

THE LITTLE DIPPER Wilmington’s favorite fondue restaurant! The Little Dipper specializes in unique fondue dishes with a global variety of cheeses, meats, seafood, vegetables, chocolates and fine wines. The warm and intimate dining room is a great place to enjoy a four-course meal, or indulge in appetizers and desserts outside on the back deck or in the bar while watching luminescent jellyfish. Reservations are appreciated for parties of any size. Located at the corner of Front and Orange in Downtown Wilmington. 138 South Front Street. (910) 2510433.

■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; open 7 days/week seasonally, May-October ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Tasting menu every Tues. with small plates from $1-$4; Ladies Night every Wed; $27 4-course prix fixe menu on Thurs.; “Date

DINNER THEATRE

THEATRENOW TheatreNOW is a performing arts complex that features weekend dinner theater, an award-win-

■ WEBSITE: www.theatrewilmington.com

FONDUE

YOSHI Yoshi Sushi Bar and Japanese Cuisine offers something the greater Wilmington area has never seen before. We are seeking to bring true New York Style Sushi to Wilmington, with classic sushi and sashimi, as well as traditional rolls and some unique Yoshi Creations. We offer a variety of items, including Poke Bowls and Hibachi - and we also are introducing true Japanese Ramen Bowls!

Come try it today! 260 Racine Dr, Wilmington 28403 (910)799-6799 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. 12pm-11pm, Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-11pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.com

BAGELS

BEACH BAGELS Beach Bagels is the best spot for breakfast and lunch in Wilmington. Serving traditional New York Style Bagels is our speciality. We boil our bagels before baking them, which effectively sets the crust and produces a perfect bagel made with love. Don’t forget about our selection of custom sandwiches that are always made to order. Try out our breakfast options like The Heart Attack filled with Egg, Country Ham, Bacon, Sausage, and American Cheese, or the Egg-White Dun-Rite with Egg Whites, Avocado, Pepper Jack Cheese, Spinach, and Tomato. Our Boar’s Head meats & cheeses are the perfect accoutrements for assembling the perfect sandwich, every time! Check out our Cuban Chicken Lunch Sandwich, complete with Boar’s Head Chicken Breast, Ham, Swiss,

“Fresh tastes better”

$4.99 DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS 11am-4pm Mon - Fri Ogden Location: 910.791.7800 6932 Market Street

Hampstead Location: 910.270.9200 15248 Highway 17 North Drive-Thru Service

Midtown Location: 910.833.8841 894 S. Kerr Avenue Drive-Thru Service • Online Ordering

Locally family owned and operated since 2011 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 25

Date Night

•

Late Night •

any Night tuesdays Beef & Bourbon: 25% off bourbon cocktails and $30 “You Call It” True Blue steaks

wednesdays Burgers & Beer: $5 True Blue Bacon Cheeseburgers and $3 local draft beers.

thursdays Rosé All Day: 1/2 price Rosé, glass & bottles

fridays Sip & Social: 1/2 price Social House martinis

$5 True blue bacon cheeseburger Wednesdays 4-7pm 1125-A Military Cutoff Rd, Wilmington | 910-679-4473 | www.wearetrueblue.com

saturdays & sundays Brunch & Bubbles: $3 mimosas and $8 mimosal flights

• Smoked Wings • Chicharrones • Frito Pie • Brisket • Pulled Pork • Ribs • Smoked Chicken • Assorted Yummy Sides

Whatever you choose...

Be sure, that our food is entirely made of 100% Texas awesomeness!

3530 Carolina Beach Rd• (910) 769-1059 • Open 7 days a week 11am-9:30pm 26 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

night menu,” $65/couple with beer and wine tasting every Fri. and half-price bottles of wine on Sun. ■ MUSIC: Tuesdays on the deck, 7 – 9p.m., MayOct ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com

and fun.

■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/slaintemj

GREEK

ANTONIO’S Serving fresh, homemade Italian fare in midtown and south Wilmington, Antonio’s Pizza and Pasta is a family-owned restaurant which serves New York style pizza and pasta. From daily specials during lunch and dinner to a friendly waitstaff ensuring a top-notch experience, whether dining in, taking out or getting delivery, to generous portions, the Antonio’s experience is an unforgettable one. Serving subs, salads, pizza by the slice or pie, pasta, and more, dine-in, take-out and delivery! 3501 Oleander Dr., #2, and 5120 S. College Rd. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (Sun., open at 11:30 a.m.)

■ NEIGHBORHOOD DELIVERY OFFERED: Monkey Junction and near Independence Mall ■ WEBSITE: www.antoniospizzaandpasta.com

SYMPOSIUM RESTAURANT AND BAR After moving to Wilmington Chef George Papanikolaou and his family opened up The Greeks in 2012 and with the support of the community was able to venture out and try something different with Symposium. Symposium is an elegant experience consisting of recipes that Chef George has collected his whole life. Many of the recipes are family recipes that have been handed down through the years, one is as old as 400 years old.

With a blend of fresh local ingredients, delicious longstanding family recipes, and Authentic Greek cuisine Symposium is a restaurant that is unique in its cooking and unforgettable in the experience it offers. Everything on the menu is a mouthwatering experience from the charred octopus, to the lamb shank with papardelle pasta, to the homemade baklava and galaktoboureko! Happy Eating OPA!! Located in Mayfaire Town Center at 890 Town Center Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) 239-9051. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily Specials ■ WEBSITE: www.symposiumnc.com

IRISH

THE HARP Experience the finest traditional Irish family recipes and popular favorites served in a casual yet elegant traditional pub atmosphere. The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St., proudly uses the freshest ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible, to bring you and yours the most delicious Irish fare! We have a fully stocked bar featuring favorite Irish beers and whiskies. We are open every day for both American and Irish breakfast, served to noon weekdays and 2 p.m. weekends. Regular menu to 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. weekends. Join us for trivia at 8:30 on Thursdays and live music on Fridays – call ahead for schedule (910) 763-1607.

Located just beside Greenfield Lake and Park at the south end of downtown Wilmington, The Harp is a lovely Irish pub committed to bringing traditional Irish flavor, tradition and hospitality to the Cape Fear area.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Greenfield Lake/Downtown South ■ FEATURING: Homemade soups, desserts and breads, free open wifi, new enlarged patio area, and big screen TVs at the bar featuring major soccer matches worldwide.

■ WEBSITE: www.harpwilmington.com SLAINTE IRISH PUB Slainte Irish Pub in Monkey Junction has traditional pub fare with an Irish flair. We have a large selection of Irish whiskey, and over 23 different beers on draft, and 40 different craft beers in bottles. They have a large well lit outdoor patio with a full bar also. Come have some fun! They currently do not take reservations, but promise to take care of you when you get here! 5607 Carolina Beach Rd. #100, (910) 399-3980 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 11:30 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington, Monkey Junction ■ FEATURING: Irish grub, whiskeys, beer, wine,

ITALIAN

THE ITALIAN BISTRO The Italian Bistro is a family-owned, full-service Italian restaurant and pizzeria located in Porters Neck. They offer a wide variety of N.Y. style thincrust pizza and homemade Italian dishes seven days a week!

The Italian Bistro strives to bring customers a variety of homemade items made with the freshest, local ingredients. Every pizza and entrée is made to order and served with a smile from our amazing staff.

Their warm, inviting, atmosphere is perfect for “date night” or “family night.” Let them show you why “fresh, homemade and local” is part of everything they do. 8211 Market St. (910) 6867774 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun. brunch, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck ■ WEBSITE: www.italianbistronc.com SLICE OF LIFE “Slice” has become a home away from home for tourists and locals alike. Our menu includes salads, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, homemade soups, subs and, of course, pizza. We only serve the freshest and highest-quality ingredients in all of our food, and our dough is made daily with purified water. Voted “Best Pizza” and “Best Late Night Eatery.”All ABC permits. Visit us downtown at 125 Market Street, (910) 251-9444, in Wrightsville Beach at 1437 Military Cutoff Road, Suite 101, (910) 256-2229 and in Pine Valley on the corner of 17th and College Road, (910) 799-1399.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: 11:30 a.m.-3 a.m., 7 days/week, 365 days/year.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Downtown and Wilmington South.

■ FEATURING: Largest tequila selection in town!

■ WEBSITE: www.grabslice.com A TASTE OF ITALY Looking for authentic Italian cuisine in the Port City? Look no further than A Taste of Italy Deli.

Brothers, Tommy and Chris Guarino, and partner Craig Berner, have been serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner to local and visiting diners for twenty years. The recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, and after one bite you feel like you’re in your mamas’ kitchen. Along with the hot and cold lunch menu, they also carry a large variety of deli sides and made-from-scratch desserts. Or, if you’re looking to get creative in your own kitchen, A Taste of Italy carries a wide selection of imported groceries, from pasta to ol-

ive oils, and everything in between. And last but certainly not least, allow them to help you make any occasion become a delicious Italian experience with their catering or call ahead ordering.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Friday 8:00am-8:00pm, Saturday 8:30am-7:00pm, Sunday 9:30am-4:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.atasteofitalydeli.com ■ FEATURING: Sclafani goods, Polly-O cheese, Ferrara Torrone and much, much more!

MEXICAN

LA COSTA MEXICAN RESTAURANT With three locations to serve Wilmingtonians, La Costa is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m with lunch specials. Their full dinner menu (from 3 p.m. on) offers the best in Mexican cuisine across the city. From top-sellers, like fajitas, quesadillas and burritos, to chef’s specialty items, like molcajete or borrego, a taste of familiar and exotic can be enjoyed. All of La Costa’s pico de gallo, guacamole, salsas, chile-chipotle, enchilada and burrito sauces are made in house daily. Add to it a 16-ounce margarita, which is only $4.95 on Mondays and Tuesdays at all locations, and every meal is complete. Serving the Port City since1996, folks can dine indoors at the Oleander and both Market Street locations, or dine alfresco at both Market Street locations. 3617 Market St.; 8024 Unit 1 Market St.; 5622 Oleander Dr. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs until 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri. and Sat. until 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown and Ogden ■ WEBSITE: www.lacostamexicanrestauranwilm-

ington.com

SANDWICHES

HWY 55 BURGERS, SHAKES AND FRIES Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries in Wilmington—on Carolina Beach Rd.—is bringing a fresh All-American diner experience with never-frozen burgers, sliced cheesesteaks piled high on steamed hoagies, and frozen custard made inhouse every day.

Founded in Eastern North Carolina in 1991, Hwy 55 reflects founder Kenney Moore’s commitment to authentic hospitality and fresh food. Lunch and dinner is grilled in an open-air kitchen, and they serve you at your table—with a smile. 6331 Carolina Beach Rd., (910) 793-6350 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday - Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. .

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Delicious burgers and homemade shakes!

■ WEBSITE: www.hwy55.com/locations/wilmington-carolina-beach-rd J. MICHAEL’S PHILLY DELI The Philly Deli celebrated their 38th anniversary in August 2017. Thier first store was located in Hanover Center—the oldest shopping center in Wilmington. Since, two more Philly Delis have been added: one at Porters Neck and one at Monkey Junction.

The Philly Deli started out by importing all of their steak meat and hoagie rolls straight from Amoroso Baking Company, located on 55th Street in downtown Philadelphia! It’s a practice they maintain to this day.

We also have a great collection of salads

Our bagels are kettle-boiled then baked; the traditional way.

2 locations to serve you 7220 Wrightsville Avenue 910-256-1222

5906 Oleander Drive 910-769-4232

Serving Breakfast and Lunch 6:30 AM to 2:00 PM every day.

www.beachbagels.biz

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 27

to choose from, including the classic chef’s salad, chicken salad, and tuna salad, all made fresh every day in our three Wilmington, NC restaurants. 8232 Market St., 3501 Oleander Dr., 609 Piner Rd. ■ OPEN: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday, 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday Saturday.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck, North and South Wilmington, ■ WEBSITE: https://phillydeli.com ON A ROLL Roll on into OAR—a fusion of AmericanJewish-Italian deli fare, interspersed in seasonal specialties with a Southern accent.

Every customer will receive freshly made-toorder sandwiches, wraps and salads, with the freshest of ingredients, all to ensure top quality.

And when the place is hopping, it is well worth the wait.

Whether choosing to dine in or take out—we deliver—On a Roll is the downtown deli to enjoy homemade grub. Come make us your favorite!

125 Grace St., (910) 622-2700 ■ SERVING LUNCH: Open Mon-Sun., 11 a.m. 4 p.m. 24-hour catering available.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: Check us out on Facebook!

SEAFOOD

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY Founded in 2008 by Evans and Nikki Trawick, Cape Fear Seafood Company has become a local hotspot for the freshest, tastiest seafood in the area. With it’s growing popularity, the res-

taurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to locations in Porters Neck and Waterford in Leland. “We are a dedicated group of individuals working together as a team to serve spectacular food, wine and spirits in a relaxed and casual setting,” restaurateur Evans Trawick says.

“At CFSC every dish is prepared with attention to detail, quality ingredients and excellent flavors.

Our staff strives to accommodate guests with a sense of urgency and an abundance of southern hospitality.” Cape Fear Seafood Company has been recognized by encore magazine for best seafood in 2015, as well as by Wilmington Magazine in 2015 and 2016, and Star News from 2013 through 2016. Monkey Junction: 5226 S. College Road Suite 5, 910-799-7077. Porter’s Neck: 140 Hays Lane #140, 910-681-1140. Waterford: 143 Poole Rd., Leland, NC 28451 ■ SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER: 11:30am4pm daily; Mon.-Thurs.., 4pm-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 4pm10pm; Sun., 4pm-8:30pm.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, north Wilmington and Leland ■ WESBITE: www.capefearseafoodcompany.com CATCH Serving the Best Seafood in South Eastern North Carolina. Wilmington’s Native Son, 2011 James Beard Award Nominee, 2013 Best of Wilmington “Best Chef” winner, Chef Keith Rhodes explores the Cape Fear Coast for the best it has to offer.

We feature Wild Caught & Sustainably raised Seafood. Organic and locally sourced produce & herbs provide the perfect compliment to our fresh Catch. Consecutively Voted Wilmington’s Best Chef 2008, 09 & 2010. Dubbed “Modern Seafood Cuisine” we offer an array Fresh Seafood &

Steaks, including our Signature NC Sweet Potato Salad. Appetizers include our Mouth watering “Fire Cracker” Shrimp, Crispy Cajun Fried NC Oysters & Blue Crab Claw Scampi, & Seafood Ceviche to name a few. Larger Plates include, Charleston Crab Cakes, Flounder Escovitch & Miso Salmon.

Custom Entree request gladly accommodated for our Guest. (Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergies) Handcrafted seasonal desserts. Full ABC Permits. 6623 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28405, 910-7993847.

■ SERVING DINNER: Mon.-Sat. 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Acclaimed Wine List ■ WEBSITE: www.catchwilmington.com DOCK STREET OYSTER BAR Voted Best Oysters for over 10 years by encore readers, you know what you can find at Dock Street Oyster Bar. But we have a lot more than oysters! Featuring a full menu of seafood, pasta, and chicken dishes from $4.95-$25.95, there’s something for everyone at Dock Street. You’ll have a great time eating in our “Bohemian-Chic” atmosphere, where you’ll feel just as comfort able in flip flops as you would in a business suit. Located at 12 Dock St in downtown Wilmington. Open for lunch and dinner, 7 days a week. (910) 762-2827.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Fresh daily steamed oysters.

■ WEBSITE: www.dockstreetoysterbar.net MICHAEL’S SEAFOOD’S RESTAURANT Established in 1998, Michael’s Seafood Restaurant is locally owned and operated by Shelly McGowan and managed by her team of culinary professionals. Michael’s aspires to bring you the highest qual-

ity and freshest fin fish, shell fish, mollusks, beef, pork, poultry and produce. Our menu consists of mainly locally grown and made from scratch items.

We count on our local fishermen and farmers to supply us with seasonal, North Carolina favorites on a daily basis. Adorned walls include awards such as 3 time gold medalist at the International Seafood Chowder Cook-Off, Entrepreneur of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Encores readers’ choice in Best Seafood to name a few. 1206 N. Lake Park Blvd. (910) 458-7761 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days 11 am – 9 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach ■ FEATURING: Award-winning chowder, local seafood and more!

■ WEBSITE: www.MikesCfood.com OCEANIC Voted best seafood restaurant in Wilmington, Oceanic provides oceanfront dining at its best.

Located in Wrightsville Beach, Oceanic is one of the most visited restaurants on the beach. Choose from a selection of seafood platters, combination plates and daily fresh fish. For land lovers, try their steaks, chicken or pasta dishes. Relax on the pier or dine inside. Oceanic is also the perfect location for memorable events, such as wedding ceremonies & receptions, birthday gatherings, anniversary parties and more. Large groups welcome. Private event space available. 703 S. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach. (910) 256.5551.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & SUNDAY BRUNCH: Mon – Sat 11am – 11pm, Sunday 10am – 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Dine on renovated Crystal Pier.

THIRSTY THURSDAY LIVE MUSIC Food & Drink Specials from 6-9pm

A 12 GRAIN ARTISAN LOAF

WITH TURKEY, GRANNY SMITH APPLES, RED ONION, CRANBERRY MAYONNAISE AND SPINACH.

L SHAPED LOT: AUGUST 30TH BEN AND MARK: SEPTEMBER 6TH

Live music every Thursday night on the dock, 1/2 priced oysters every Monday-Thursday 4-6 and Sunday Brunch with live music from 11:30am-3pm every Sunday in our main dining room.

www.elijahs.com

2 Ann St. Wilmington, NC • 910-343-1448 28 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

■ WEBSITE: www.OceanicRestaurant.com THE PILOT HOUSE The Pilot House Restaurant is Wilmington’s premier seafood and steak house with a touch of the South. We specialize in local seafood and produce. Featuring the only Downtown bar that faces the river and opening our doors in 1978, The Pilot House is the oldest restaurant in the Downtown area. We offer stunning riverfront views in a newly-renovated relaxed, casual setting inside or on one of our two outdoor decks. Join us for $5.00 select appetizers 7 days a week and live music every Friday and Saturday nigh on our umbrella deck. Large parties welcome. Private event space available. 910-343-0200 2 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11am9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. Kids menu ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Riverfront Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Fresh local seafood specialties, Riverfront Dining, free on-site parking ■ MUSIC: Outside Every Friday and Saturday ■ WEBSITE: www.pilothouserest.com SHUCKIN’ SHACK Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar has two locations in the Port City area. The original Shack is located in Carolina Beach at 6A N. Lake Park Blvd. (910458-7380) and our second location is at 109 Market Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington (910-833-8622). The Shack is the place you want to be to catch your favorite sports team on 7 TV’s carrying all major sports packages. A variety of fresh seafood is available daily including oysters, shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab legs. Shuckin’

Shack has expanded its menu now offering fish tacos, crab cake sliders, fried oyster po-boys, fresh salads, and more. Come in and check out the Shack’s daily lunch, dinner, and drink specials.

It’s a Good Shuckin’ Time!

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Carolina Beach Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-2am; Sun: Noon-2am, Historic Wilmington: Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat: 11am-Midnight.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach/Downtown ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials. Like us on Facebook!

■ WEBSITE: www.TheShuckinShack.com STEAM RESTAURANT AND BAR Steam is bringing American cuisine to Wilmington using locally sourced goods and ingredients. With an extensive wine and beer selection, plenty of cocktails, indoor/outdoor seating, and beautiful views of the Cape Fear River, Steam is the area’s new go-to restaurant.

Reservations recommended. Open seven days a week!, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. 9 Estell Lee Pl, (910) 726-9226 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Lunch: 11 a.m. 5 p.m. Dinner: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. Bar: 11 a.m.-Until.

Menu Bar: 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.steamrestaurantilm.com

SOUTHERN

CASEY’S BUFFET In Wilmington, everyone knows where to go for solid country cooking. That place is Casey’s Buffet, winner of encore’s Best Country Cookin’/ Soul Food and Buffet categories. “Every day we

are open, somebody tells us it tastes just like their grandma’s or mama’s cooking,” co-owner Gena Casey says. Gena and her husband Larry run the show at the Oleander Drive restaurant where people are urged to enjoy all food indigenous to the South: fried chicken, barbecue, catfish, mac‘n’cheese, mashed potatoes, green beans, chicken‘n’dumplings, biscuits and homemade banana puddin’ are among a few of many other delectable items. 5559 Oleander Drive. (910) 798-2913.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesdays.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Pig’s feet and chitterlings.

■ WEBSITE: www.caseysbuffet.com

of 2010 in Wilmington, Carolina Ale House is the place to be for award-winning food, sports and fun. Located on College Rd. near UNC W, this lively sports-themed restaurant. Covered and open outdoor seating is available. Lunch and dinner specials are offered daily, as well as the coldest $2 and $3 drafts in town. 317 S. College Rd. (910) 791.9393.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: 11am-2am daily.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: 40 HD TVs and the biggest HD projector TVs in Wilmington.

■ WEBSITE: www.CarolinaAleHouse.com

RX RESTAURANT & BAR Located in downtown Wilmington, Rx Restaurant and Bar is here to feed your soul, serving up Southern cuisine made with ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. The Rx chef is committed to bringing fresh food to your table, so the menu changes daily based on what he finds locally. Rx drinks are as unique as the food—and just what the doctor ordered. Join us for a dining experience you will never forget! 421 Castle St.; 910 399-3080.

■ SERVING BRUNCH & DINNER: Tues-Thurs, 5-10pm; Fri-Sat, 5-10:30pm; Sun., 10am-3pm and 5-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.rxwilmington.com

THE FORTUNATE GLASS WINE BAR An intimate venue showcasing globally sourced wines, plus creative small plates and craft beers.

The serene ambiance is created by the beautiful wall mural, elegant glass tile bar, castle rocked walls and intimate booths. There are wines from all regions, with 60 wines by the glass and 350 wines available by the bottle. Food consists of numerous small plates, fine cheeses, cured meats and decadent desserts that will compliment any wine selection.

■ SERVING DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Tues. Thur., 4 p.m. - midnight; Fri., 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. - midnight.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown, 29 S Front St. ■ FEATURING: Weekly free wine tasting Tues., 6 - 8 p.m. Small plates, and wine and beer specials.

■ WEBSITE: www.fortunateglass.com

SPORTS BAR

TAPAS/WINE BAR

CAROLINA ALE HOUSE Voted best new restaurant AND best sports bar

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 29

GRUB & GUZZLE>>REVIEW

YUM! YUM!

Mizuki Japan noodles around with Asian fusion

H

BY: ROSA BIANCA

ands up if you look forward to spring rolls on Sunday nights!

Maybe it’s the bourbon-on-the-frontporch-induced hangover. Maybe it’s the charcoal-colored sky and impending rainstorm.

Maybe it’s just about to be Monday again, and plans for partaking in a Netflix-a-thon do not involve lifting a spatula. Whatever the reason, there’s something wildly soothing about Asian comfort food on a Sunday evening.

Greasy Chinese delivery is one thing (and not difficult to stumble upon in a college town), but quality Asian fusion from a clean, friendly establishment is another. Folks may have driven by the Target on New Centre Drive in the past year or so and noticed the up-and-coming shopping center across the street. The oncequiet strip mall has been blossoming with novel eateries—like Italian newcomer Agostino’s and brew-and-‘cue haven Skytown (sister restaurant to downtown’s Beer Barrio). When Mizuki Japan popped up smack dab between the two, I

rived home from a weekend away and had nothing in the fridge other than beer.

Mizuki‘s takeout containers joined us for dinner, lunch and one more dinner.

Especially compared to a traditional Chinese hole-in-the-wall, the General Tsaos went above and beyond. Not only was the protein portion generous (an entire container of chicken on top of broccoli with the rice on the side), but each morsel was unexpectedly moist and not overly fried or coated in sweet, aromatic sauce. There was no real heat to the dish—just watch out for those sneaky little Szechuan peppers.

began contemplating its effect on longtime sushi favorite Genki restaurant, practically adjacent to the eatery.

Here’s the word: Though Genki also is fairly small in size, it’s more of a sitdown dining room and specializes in hand rolls and homemade sake. Mizuki’s menu goes down a range of Asian avenues. Think: American-Chinese classics, bento boxes and poke bowls.

Muzuki is immaculately clean, has minimal décor, and only offers several four-tops for dining in and thus presenting itself as a takeout spot. I called in a pretty hefty order, was told 15 minutes, and it was ready in exactly 15 minutes.

Tidy, fast, and friendly from start to finish: What more could I want?

Oh yeah, the food. Well, it is the bomb.

Why, yes, I will have all of the fried things, thank you.

My husband and I got home and ripped into our brown paper bags. First up, the spring rolls.

Wilmington’s

Premier Wine Bar

60 Wines by the Glass 350 Wines by the Bottle 30 Craft Beers Small Plates

(910) 399-4292 29 S Front St Wilmington fortunateglasswinebar.com 30 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

HIBACHI TIME: Chicken hibachi from Mizuki Japan hits the spot. Photo by Shannon Rae Gentry

The handhelds had a traditional thin rice wrapper and were full of crunchy veggies. No sticky duck sauce packets here! Mizuki accompanies their rolls with a tangy orange dipper that paired perfectly with our crispy cylinders.

Next on deck: crab rangoons. Each puffy wonton shell was stuffed with velvety cream cheese, crab and scallions. On the side, a vibrant red sweet-and-sour sauce that cut through the fat of the cream cheese and made each bite more addictive than the next. Neither appetizer was mind-blowingly out of the ordinary, but both just happened to be light, not excessively greasy, and partnered with delightfully bright, sticky condiments that tasted far better than something sitting in a plastic package for who knows how long.

In an attempt to try something from every path of the menu, we split a basic sushi roll. The spicy tuna and avocado was simple yet fresh in all the right ways. The rice was tender, and the tuna melted in my mouth. For just under $5, the quality was a steal.

I also went for the house salad with ginger dressing (which a few folks raved about online). It was a mixture of crunchy greens, a few chopped tomatoes and a zippy, spiced-up dressing. It was good, just not overly memorable from others I’ve had at similar places.

Although they don’t offer a vast assortment of larger specialty rolls, with a price of about $10 per roll (where most places charge $12 to $15) Mizuki has the right mindset. They even offer poke bowls (still a trendy, new concept around here) with tuna or salmon, avocado, veggies, rice, and sauce for $8.

Other than really well-prepared pad Thai, yakisoba is my favorite Sunday noodle, comfort-on-on-the-couch food. Everyone makes it a bit different, but the key is the oyster saucebased mixture that coats the noodles. We opted for one steak yakisoba, as well as hibachi chicken (also with noodles). Both were tangled with scallions and Napa cabbage, so when the hibachi and yakisoba intertwined, it was tough to differentiate between the two.

The hibachi came with the addition of zucchini and broccoli, and just like the veggies in the rest of the entrees, they were tender-crisp and not overcooked. The white (a.k.a. yum yum) sauce was garlicky and delicious as always, but a touch thicker and creamier than what I’ve sampled elsewhere. The noodles in both were thicker lo-mein style, with a heartier chew. I may be alone on this, but my favorite part of yum yum sauce is cutting it with Japanese ginger sauce (a deeper brown, more textured blend made of soy, onion, ginger, citrus, and vinegar). Unfortunately, Mizuki’s ginger sauce is merely their ginger salad dressing. That being said, I hit the noodles with a few splashes of soy to bring the umami flavors together. Overall, the sautéed chicken and steak in both the hibachi and yakisoba were juicy and seasoned well.

I’m often weary of restaurants cramming too many cuisines onto one menu, but if the ingredients are fresh, the flavors are balanced, and the prices are right, well, you do you, boo. Mizuki goes a step above all-around, and Wilmington is all-aboard.

DETAILS:

Mizuki Japan

4712 New Centre Dr., #101 (910) 769-0331 Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun., 12 As far as the main entrees go, I’m not emp.m. - 9:30 p.m. barrassed to say my husband and I literally ate this meal three times. Granted, we had just ar- facebook.com/pg/Mizuki-Japan-Restaurant

GRUB & GUZZLE>>RECIPES

BITES AND SIPS

SUMMER SALADS:

food events...

Spanish Wine Dinner

As the heat dies down, Emily dishes on the last of summer’s cool meals

Aug. 27, 6:30 p.m.

True Blue Butcher and Table 1125-A Military Cutoff Rd. wearetrueblue.com •$90

BY: EMILY CAULFIELD

E

ven if you don’t feel like cooking— it’s brutally hot, school just started up again, work is annoying, you’re crashing on your friend’s couch and they don’t like you using the oven—you can still be a whiz in the kitchen. These late summer salads are in turn juicy and crisp, delightful and alluring, all easy as hell but with complex flavor combos that trick you and yours into thinking you’ve done something masterful. But, then again, haven’t you?

GETTING TO KNOW YOU, LATE SUMMER PEACHES WITH TOMATO AND BURRATA Ever noticed how peaches look like hearts? And butts? If you make this on a first date, they will love you forever.

Ingredients: 3 ripe peaches, sliced bite-sized 1 pound mixed cherry and grape tomatoes, some halved, some whole 1 8-ounce ball burrata, torn up into pieces Herbs for serving (basil, parsley, chives,

910-679-4473

A five-course dinner with wine pairings, including pork cheek croquettes, bronzino, paella, lamb chop, and a Mahon-infused cheesecake. Each course is served with Spanish wine.

Sour Barn Two-Year Anniversary Sept. 1, noon- 11 p.m.

2 tsp unseasoned rice vinegar 1 tsp honey A few vigorous dashes of your favorite hot sauce Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper

Method: I mean, it’s a summer salad, designed to be refreshing and sexy and easy as hell. The honey, vinegar, olive oil, and hot sauce go into a small bowl, whipped until emulsified.

Cut up the rest of players and toss gently with

WE’VE BEEN TOGETHER AWHILE RADISH SALAD WITH ANCHOVY DRESSING Make this for someone whose breath you love, no matter what.

Ingredients: 1 large bunch radishes, washed and cut as thin as possible. Use a mandolin. (If you can find black radishes, they work really beautifully and dramatically here, but regular ones are wonderful, too!)

1/4 c Italian flat-leaf parsley, chopped rough Tiny pinch kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper (add more later to taste, but remember anchovies are way salty) 1 fat nub Parmesan cheese, grated super fine on a microplane, for serving 3-4 anchovy filets 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon 1 clove garlic

Method: Prep radishes and parsley, and set aside in a large bowl. Place the lemon juice, garlic, and anchovies into a blender or food processor, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil, while pulsing the dressing to emulsify. and/or tarragon, or some combo of them), chopped finely 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

the dressing, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve immediately, with good bread and ice cold white wine.

Pour dressing over salad, and toss well to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan. Serve immediately, with cold bitter beers and a warm-hearted friend or lover.

Sour Barn • 7211 Market St. broomtailcraftbrewery.com/sourbarn • Tickets: $5-$40 (844) 768-7276

Two sessions to choose from (noon5 p.m. or 6-11 p.m.), with live music and DJ, local and import craft draft beer, games, raffles, and food trucks at each session. Over 12-plus different Broomtail and several guest beers on tap (Broomtail Brewing, Wicked Weed, D9, Neuse River Brewing, Makai Brewing, etc.), as well as special bottle releases and sour beer rarities (VIP ticket holders).

Southeast Crab Feast Sept. 1, 4-6 p.m.

Wilmington Sportsman Club 1111 Castle St. •Tickets: $10-$55

Featuring Low Country coastal heritage of outdoor cooking of fresh seafood—blue crabs, one side of fish and chips, and snow crab legs platter optional). Music and a family-friendly environment. Event historically sells out early every year therefore we recommend that you secure your tickets ASAP. All advance ticket purchases will be held in the buyers name to redeem at Will Call on the day of the event. The buyer will need a valid ID to claim their tickets.

Seating accommodations will be available for all ticket holders.

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 31

EXTRA>>FEATURE

LOVE IS LOVE:

Port City Pride kicks off a weekend of celebration and inclusion perform is on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race.’ I am excited to know there will be people from all different areas . . . enjoy Pride weekend.”

BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

A

masquerade is often a theme adopted to cloak anything from ballrooms to gymnasiums in mysterious elegance, wherein people don masks and fantastic costumes for a night of fancy. It’s an escape for an evening—a perfect theme for the first annual Pride Prom: Mas[queer]ade Ball.

Weekend festivities will continue Saturday with the second annual Port City Pride Block Party on Castle Street from noon until 10 p.m. Free to the public, there will be various vendors, local artists, nonprofits and four food trucks on site throughout the day. Castle Street’s local shops will be open as well.

“The idea behind a masquerade theme centers around kids being able to conceal their identity, if that makes them more comfortable,” prom organizer Hattie Haines says. “As far as the look of the dance, the room will be outfitted with black and gold decorations, and Quinten [O’Rourke] is making large photo prop masks.”

The family-friendly event will have a kids corner with face-painting, games and more. Live music will be performed by the “guitar guru of the Lower Cape Fear,” Laura McLean with her Calamity band. Also joining will be singer-songwriter DeAnne Carroll, spoken word by Timothy Joyner, as well as DJ Bobby Zee spinning a dance party in the street until 10 p.m.

Presented by the Frank Harr Foundation and Wilmington Pride Youth, Haines and O’Rourke are organizing the first annual LGBTQIA prom as part of Port City Pride’s weekend-long events. The Mas[queer]ade Ball on August 31 is open to ages 13 to 18, and isn’t a typical school dance or prom.

Sure, each teen will get five free raffle tickets at the door to put toward gift certificates for Defy Gravity, Little Dipper, Two Sisters Bookery, and Planet, but the event is specifically organized as a safe space for teenagers to be themselves, without judgement or censorship.

This year’s block party features a heftier list of vendors, including Tidal Creek Coop, Cabin Girl Designs LLC, Tastebuds Popcorn, Studio Nine, Green Coast, Working Narratives, Moms Demand Action - NC, New Hanover County Public Library, The Pepper Mill Shop and more. They’ll all compete in a vendor decoration competition.

The vendor who best presents the “Spirit of Pride” wins two official Port City Pride Block Party t-shirts, fees paid for next year, an award and bragging rights.

Pin-Ups for Pride at Second Skin Vintage is another addition to the day’s events.

Rockabilly inspired 1940s and ‘50s dress and accessories are encouraged, as well as quirky and unique takes on traditional gendered attire (though dressup isn’t required to enjoy the fun).

“We have loosened the reins on things like what music is [or] is not appropriate and PDA,” Haines clarifies. “We want the music to be relevant to how the kids feel and if that happens to be something like ‘Fuck the Police’ by N.W.A., then that’s what we are gonna play. We also will be listening to songs by activists like Kendrick Lamar who rap about self acceptance, as well as LGBTQ-centric artists like Troy Sivan, Frank Ocean and Kehlani.”

Fears of social stigma are rampant enough within this oft-marginalized group.

Add youth to it, and it becomes even more marginalized. Haines hopes to allow folks a place to interact and feel a sense of unity and community.

“Events like these introduce queer youth to others like themselves, peers, close friends and even love interests they might otherwise be afraid to approach out of fear,” Haines notes.

While adults can support the Mas[queer] ade Ball at gofundme.com/nhsbq-lgbtq-

prom, anyone looking to celebrate Port City Pride have a full calendar of events coming from August 31 through September 2.

It will kick off with The Rainbow Bar Crawl this Friday. Beginning at downtown’s KGB at 6 p.m., folks will make their merry way to Tavern Law, Liquid Room, HUSK, and Tails Piano Bar each hour until they finally end up at Ibiza (with $5 off admission) before midnight.

“The registration gets you some great

32 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

‘swag with your $5 dollar registration fee as well,” Port City Pride organizer Joey Hall details.

Ibiza will host a performance by Pearl Liaison of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 7. Known for their summer drag performances, Ibiza welcomes this first-time appearance for Liaison. “We just were lucky enough to have [Ibiza’s] entertainment coordinator on the board for Port City Pride,” Hall notes. “The only time I have seen her

Sunday morning risers will meet at Wrightsville Beach at 7 a.m. to play in the sun or start the day with a pick-up kickball game at MLK Park at 2 p.m. Hosted by Stonewall Sports Wilmington, it’s free to play and teams will be determined upon arrival. Each game will last 45 minutes and the team with the most points at the end wins. “Of course bring snacks and drinks to cheer these wonderful athletes on,” Hall encourages.

The weekend will come to a close in style at the USS Battleship North Carolina to cap off 2018 in an unforgettable way: Sunday’s Fantail Funday. Entry into the dance party ($35), with music spinning by DJ Bobby Zee, will include a drink ticket, and Cape

Cover: $15-$30 ($5 off for bar crawl attendees)

Fear Formal Wear will be there with their new fall line of tuxedos for a fashion show.

“Plus, there will be a special performance,” Hall tips off. “Female impersonators [will take the stage and include] The Port City Goddess herself, Tara Nicole Brooks; former Miss Gay NC Lauren Scott; the reigning Miss Ibiza, Sonja Simone; the dancing diva herself, Rashmia Biosh; and the fabulous one from the House of Matthews, Tatianna Matthews. We will have entertainers from Florida and Greensboro, NC.”

Pride Block Party 2

Saturday, Sept. 1, 12 p.m.- 10 p.m.

Castle Street Free

Pride Beach Blast

Sunday, Sept. 2, 7 a.m.

Wrightsville Beach Access 29 Free

As Port City Pride continues to grow, they’re looking for more ways to provide education and community outreach. Since the first block party last year, Hall and company learned to think bigger and plan in advance. They were able to brainstorm ideas far longer than 2017’s finite timeline.

“Last year, we had some highly motivated folks that wanted to make this happen for our community within a six-week period,” Hall explains. “It was fun and exciting, and we asked the community what they wanted. What were their ideas? And we heard a lot of great things and built from there.”

They saw first-hand how a younger generation of the LGBTQIA community yearned inclusion; hence 2018’s prom.

They’re looking toward further inclusion as well in coming years as the event grows.

“We need to break the tradition of essentially segregated Pride festivals—and that’s not just a problem in New Hanover County or North Carolina, it’s an issue everywhere of white queer people not reaching out to communities of color when orchestrating events like these,” Haines states.

Proceeds from the weekend’s events will be benefit Port City Pride and their mission to host events for the LGBTQIA community. They can be followed and tagged with #portcitypride2018. For more information, follow the group at facebook.com/PortCityPrideBlockParty.

Pride Kickball Game

Sunday, Sept. 2, 2 p.m.

MLK Center Park 401 S. 8th St. Free LOVE IS LOVE: Last year’s inaugural Port City Pride Block Party inspired several additions to turn this celebration into a weekend series of events. Photo courtesy of Port City Pride

RPDR Pearl LIVE

DETAILS:

Pride Prom: Mas[queer]ade Ball

Ages 13-18 only Friday, Aug. 31, 6 p.m.

Hannah Block Community Center 120 S. 2nd St. Donations at gofundme.com/nhsbq-lgbtq-prom

Friday, Aug. 31, midnight Ibiza Nightclub Wilmington 118 Market St.

Fantail Funday Dance Party

Sunday, Sept. 2, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

USS Battleship North Carolina 1 Battleship Rd NE Tickets: $35 (includes 1 drink ticket) PortCityPride.ticketsprite.com/ fantailfunday

Rainbow Bar Crawl

Friday, Aug. 31, 6:30 p.m.

Meet at KGB ILM 16 Princess St. Registration: $5

DRAG ME TO IBIZA

Friday showtimes: 10:30 p.m. & midnight (doors at 9 p.m.; first hr. free!)

wine-down wednesday 2 a.m.; wine specials Karaoke, 8 p.m. -

saturday dance party Select drink specials 9 p.m. - 2:30 a.m.

SEPT. 1ST: LAST SPLASH PARTY—IN CELEBRATION OF PRIDE WEEKEND IN ILM! Nightly drink specials! • Open Wed., Fri. and Sat. every week!

118 Market St. • (910) 251-1301 • www.ibizawilmington.com

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 33

EXTRA>>BOOKS

CARPE LIBRUM:

Gwenyfar reviews a books that literally hits close to home only the second family to own it, having purchased in the 1980s when the matriarch passed. As a result, I have had a long and tangential interest in the Hooper family in North Carolina.

BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

W

ilmington’s literary community keeps gaining accolades (two National Book Awards nominees in 2015) and attention in the press. With multiple established publishers in the state (Algonquin, Blair) and new smaller presses gaining traction (Eno, Bull City), it is timely to shine a light on discussions around literature, publishing and the importance of communicating a truthful story in our present world.

Welcome to Carpe Librum, encore’s biweekly book column, wherein I will dissect a current title or an old book—because literature does not exist in a vacuum but emerges to participate in a larger, cultural conversation. I will feature many NC writers; however, the hope is to place the discussion in a larger context and therefore examine works around the world.

Adventures of Captain Simon Suggs

By Johnson Jones Hooper Southern Classic Series

“Why don’t you write a review of a book you really hate?” Jock postulated one evening. “Like anything by Joseph Conrad?”

He has endured the better part of two decades of me complaining that Conrad’s hands should have been cut off before he was allowed to write or publish anything.

Rivets! Who the fuck cares about two pages of lamenting rivets?

“I’ve been there, Gwen,” my friend John Wolfe nodded and confirmed. “That’s real.

Waiting for one small thing in a boat yard.”

He chuckled. “Yeah. Real.”

William Hooper, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence from North Carolina (his Historical Marker is on Third Street, between Market and Princess), is the big star for the family. But they produced a number of successful people throughout generations. One of his nephews, Johnson Jones, became a celebrated humorist in the first half of the 1800s.

Fair enough.

Generally, for me, anyone who loves Conrad and has a XX chromosome ... well, we are probably not going to be close friends. We just will not agree on enough to make it worthwhile.

Rather than a book I really hate, I would like to put forth a book I struggle with: “Adventures of Captain Simon Suggs” by Johnson Jones Hooper.

Readers can drive up Market Street and see the North Carolina Highway Historical Marker (the grey and black signs on roadsides) for Captain Simon Suggs. His is right in front of the tennis courts for New Hanover High School.

I grew up in the Hooper House. We are

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34 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

YWCA Lower Cape Fear 2815 South College Road Wilmington, NC 28412 phone: 910-799-6820

A lot of my childhood was spent putting together pieces of their lives they left in the house when we moved in. I knew they were influential in the Republican Party, at least money-wise because pictures of the family with Republican political leaders from the mid-20th century told as much.

They loomed large over us: Everything in the house had been built, added on to and chosen, based around their growing family needs and wants. For the white, liberal carpet baggers from the North that my parents represented, it was an endless source of mild confusion and embarrassment: We lived in a house that made the reality of Jim Crow inescapable.

My home is an old Southern mansion with a kitchen designed for several servants to work in and of course a servants’ commode on the back porch. I don’t think I have to spell out the euphemism, do I? There were servant’s bells in the dining room and master bedroom. The mysterious locked closet on the back porch was finally revealed to house the liquor and cigars. We still have an easement in the deed across the next-door neighbor’s yard for the servants to cross. There were no laundry facilities because they sent their laundry out to be done. (This was the first time I encountered the idea of a laundry service; as an adult I might not be able to afford it but I love it in theory!)

But I was too young to understand or feel much one way or the other about most of it. I also was the only member of our family born in the South who had never known another home. So the puzzle pieces were just that: puzzle pieces. I was solving the riddle and discovering the story of who these people were. Like most things I encountered from “long ago and far away,” they were just a story. We didn’t live like that; just ask

my mother. After two years, her beautiful house became “the thing that would never be completely clean all at once.” Who can dust that much, wash that many floors and work a 40-hour week?

So, for a long time, I have been meaning to sit down and read the Simon Suggs stories. Simon Suggs was popular prior to the Civil War. He has been cited many times as the inspiration to Mark Twain and William Faulkner—especially Faulkner’s Snopes stories, a sort of unusually principled conman. It’s not his fault people fall for his schemes (or that sometimes his schemes fall apart around him).

Hooper had moved to Alabama by that time and writes a remarkable reproduction of the dialect of the area. It can take a little while to get your brain to flip the switch and make the leap, but, much like reading Zora Neale Hurston’s masterpiece, “Their Eyes Were Watching God,” you just have to give it your brain a bit and it will make the jump.

The thing is, Johnson Jones Hooper was rabidly political. He could not calm down or be controlled. Much of that was channeled into his newspaper editorials, but his fiction is only a vaguely, thinly veiled satire of the time he was living in. A lot of the messages, themes and depictions are inescapably hard to deny.

165 years later, the world has changed and moved on, thankfully. But, as a sketch of the time, as an example of how the political debate was approached and communicated and handled, it is invaluable. We tend to view people in the past with very simplistic measurement: If I agree with you, you go in this box. If I don’t agree with you, you go in that box. The complicated process of being human is just that: complex. I don’t agree with Johnson’s views, but, as a representative from his time, he is fascinating.

That’s what makes the stories intriguing to look though the door to the mind at work during the Jackson, Polk and early Lincoln administrations. It is in many ways a primary document of their environments but with a plot and characters who are surprisingly intriguing in a variety of ways.

It is not hard to see the line drawn to Twain, Faulkner, and I would argue to Erskine Caldwell. I admit: I probably would never have picked up the book, were it not for the many generations back connections to my house. But, for a deeper understanding of the time, I am glad I did.

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 35

HAPPENINGS & EVENTS ACROSS WILMINGTON

TO-DO CALENDAR

events

HDWM ARTISAN MARKET

Join us every Sunday until Oct. 28 along the scenic, historic Wilmington riverfront for a weekly artisan market featuring some of Wilmington’s finest artists and crafts people.

You’ll find everything from fine art to functional with a diverse assortment of painters, illustrators, woodworkers, metal workers, upscale crafts and more! Located at Riverfront Park on N. Water Street between Market and Princess from 10am-3:30pm every Sun., weather permitting. This is a City of Wilmington event.

Riverfront Park, 5 N. Water St.

SUMMER FIREWORKS BY SEA

Pleasure Island summers have begun with weekly fireworks every Thursday an dlive music on the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk at the gazebo stage. Music starts at 6:30 followed by the fireworks at 9. Follow Facebook for weather delays, changes and updates. 100 Cape Fear Blvd.

PCYP EVENTS

Free for members and non-members. A networking event often feat. free beer, wine, food, and live music. Business casual; no membership required. All ages and professions welcome. Photography by Chris Brehmer Photography with raffles given out. Upcoming events:

Sept. 19, Homewood Suites by Hilton Wilmington. pcypapp.com/about/join.

FAMILY NIGHT

Tues. night, 6:30pm: Free activities including a bounce house, face painting, entertainment, characters, crafts and more! Takes place at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Gazebo with weather permitting. 100 Cape Fear Blvd.

BOTTEGA’S PIRATE BALL

Aug. 31, 8pm: It’s time to set black sails for the most promiscuous of ports and lay down a legendary plunderin’ an’ a-pillagin’ at ye good old Bottega Art Bar. Capt. Jarvis will be easing ye into yer sea legs from 7-9pm, and Open Wire takes the stage from 10pm-2am. Afterwards

lay buccaneer hijinx and shenanigans--including a costume contest! No Cover! Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St. HARRY POTTER’S 20 ANNIVERSARY

Sept. 1, 11am: New Hanover County’s Northeast Library is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the release of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in the U.S.A. All ages are welcome and no registration is required for this free, family-friendly festival. Come dressed up, because there will be lots of photo-ops! Highlights include presentations on strange beasts by Fort Fisher Aquarium and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Department, remarks on the history of magic

by Professor Sheppard of the Library’s Local History Collection, and instruction in herbology by New Hanover County Cooperative Extension Agency. Other activities will include getting sorted into Hogwarts Houses, trivia, wand-making, potions demonstrations, practicing charms, and of course checking out books. Canned food will be collected for donation to the SENC Food Bank on the Feast Table in the Great Hall, and raffles and other sales will benefit the Cape Fear Literacy Council. Grant Hedrick at ghedrick@nhcgov. com or 910-798-6372. Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

music/concerts SUNSET MUSIC CRUISES

Live music along the Cape Fear River aboard Wilmington Water Tours at the sunset; various musicians and cruises weekly. www. wilmingtonwatertours.net or call us at (910) 338-3134. 212 S. Water St.

FT. FISHER SUMMER CONCERTS

Free Summer Concerts at the Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area 2nd and 4th Fridays through August 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area, 118 River Front Dr.

LELAND CONCERTS AT THE PARK

All ages! Bring a blanket or a lawn chair, beverages, and your friends and family! Local food trucks will be on site selling food!

Please remember, no smoking or e-cigarettes are allowed on Town property. Thurs., 6:30-8:30pm. Free! Leland Municipal Park, 102 Town Hall Dr.

BOOGIE IN THE PARKS

Sun.: 5-7 p.m. (1st/3rd Sun., May through Oct.). Bring your beach chair or blanket and enjoy free, live music by the sea! Free and open to the public! Ocean Front Park, 105 Atlantic Blvd.

OPEN-MIC AT TIDAL CREEK

Comedians, singers, songwriters, poets, yodelers! Come out the co-op on Wednesday night & show us what you got! Free coffee & tea for all performers! Mic is yours from 6 pm

36 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

HOPE ABOUNDS PRESENTS

Check out our daily/weekly specials Always a vegan/vegatarian/gluten free option

125 Grace Street • (910) 622-2700 Mon-Sat., 11 a.m. - 4 p.m

sammies. soups. salads. sides. wraps

BOOTS,Bling & BLACKJACK! RIVER LANDING COUNTRY CLUB WALLACE, NC

September 29th - 6 pm

1571 Neils Eddy Road, Riegelwood, NC 28456 (910) 655-2555 www.capefearless.com Just 20 minutes from downtown Wilmington

tine 25 acres of fporrisest southern treetop more thant6ar0zan swings obstaclese, s up to 50 feet and zip lin the ground above S AND GREAT FOR ADDULT ER KIDS 10 AN OLD a mixture THAT containes ranging eS s r u o c r g u n fo S s and challe of obstacle ES, SWINGS, SLIDES, NET G from BRID AN AERIAL SURFBOARD AND EVEN

• Blackjack, Poker, Craps, and Roulette * • DJ, Music and Dancing • Heavy Hors d’ouevres, Dessert Bar, Cash Bar • Live Auction * BETTING WILL TAKE PLACE WITH FUN MONEY.

ADMISSION TICKETS: $85/PERSON 2 OR MORE GUESTS: $75/PERSON

Tickets: www.hopeabounds.org RIVER LANDING COUNTRY CLUB 116 PADDLEWHEEL DR. WALLACE, NC 28466

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 37

until about 8:45! Hosted by the always entertaining Bob Sarnataro, this open mic is a laid back, no pressure opportunity for performers of all kinds to stretch those creative muscles.

All ages welcome. Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 Oleander Dr. SUNDAY SCHOOL UNDERGROUND

Every week Sunday School Underground welcomes a collective of like minded DJs with interest in growing the underground electronic music scene. We commune at the Juggling Gypsy Cafe to preach beats and vibes that will fill your soul. The Juggling Gypsy has the right atmosphere to cater a chill underground community of DJs. Located on the corner of 16 St. and Castle St. Come smoke a hookah, try one of the many craft beers, bounce around the patio, or just lounge with the beats. Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

DOWNTOWN SUNDOWN

Concert series presented by Outdoor Equipped runs each Friday night through August 31. Free concerts are from 6:30pm to 10pm and feature both local performers and cover and tribute bands. Wristband sales for beer benefit local nonprofits. Outside beverages, food, coolers and dogs are prohibited.

Rain or shine; check Facebook for updates.

Riverfront Park, 5 N. Water St.

ARTISTRY IN JAZZ BIG BAND

Aug. 31, Jazz at The Gazebo—Carolina Beach Boardwalk, 7-9pm. 24-piece orchestra. Playing the music of Stan Kenton, Count Basie and others, featuring Angela Woodcock on vocals.

JAZZ AT CAM

2018-19 Season 9: 1st Thurs. Sept-Apr (except Jan.—2nd Thursday). All concerts

are 6:30-8pm. Eight-concert series has individual seat sales are available for purchase: 910.395.5999. Enjoy dinner and drinks at the CAM Café (910.777.2363) before or after the concert. Café reservations are always suggested and appreciated. Line-up: Sept. 6, Benny Hill Quartet; Oct. 4, Lynn Grissett Quartet; Nov. 1, The FROG Project; Dec. 6, Lenore Raphael Quartet; Jan. 10, 2019, La Fiesta Latin Jazz Quintet; Feb. 7, Jon Hill Quartet; Mar. 7, Ernest Turner Trio; Apr. 4, Brian Miller Admission: CAM/CFJS Members: $12, Non-members: $20., Students with valid college ID: $10. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St. LABOR DAY WEEKEND JAM

Sept. 1, 3pm: Welcome back The Dubtown Cosmonauts to the Wrightsville Beach Brewery Beer Garden on Labor Day! Free outdoor concert from 3pm to 6pm from the local Wilmington jam band. Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

theatre/auditions THE MAN WHO SHOT LIBERTY VALANCE

Through Sept. 2, Thurs-Sat., 7:30pm, or Sun., 3pm: Journey into the Old West, when Panache Productions brings you The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance. The classic story of good versus evil, law versus the gun, one man versus Liberty Valance. The western short story that inspired the classic film by John Ford adapted beautifully for the stage.Mature language and content. Only eight performances! North Front Theatre (formerly City Stage), 21 N. Front St. Take the elevator or stairs to the Fifth Floor. $20 for reserved seating, $18 for seniors, students and military, $25 for VIP floor seating. Tickets:

https://panache.brownpapertickets.com/ by calling 1-800-838-3006.

or

MEMORIES, MOLASSES AND MORE

By Peggy Price, edited by Clyde Edgerton, Stephanie Trott & Deborah Brunson, adapted for stage by Zach Hanner, directed by Mike Thompson, takes place Fri and Sat. through Sept. 1, 7pm. Tickets $18-$42 with discounts for seniors, students, military and groups. Stories of food, family and faith woven together with music and taken from the real stories, and recipes from a cookbook by two Wilmington sister churches, Missionary Macedonia Baptist and Winter Park Baptist.

Show and dinner tickets available and you can order a copy of the cookbook to take home! TheatreNOW, 9 S. 10th St.

VIOLET

Aug. 29-Sept. 2, Sept. 7-9, 8pm or Sun., 3pm: Music by Jeanine Tesori; lyrics and Book by Brian Crawley; based on “The Ugliest Pilgrim” by Doris Betts—Violet Karl is a woman with a plan. Disfigured in a childhood accident, she is determined to alter the path of her life with faith healing. In search of her miracle, she leaves her hometown of Spruce Pine, NC, to journey by bus to Tulsa, home of the televangelist she believes can offer her this miraculous transformation. Tickets: $32.

(910) 632-2285 or online at thalianhall.org Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St.

film MOVIES IN THE PARK

All ages on Saturday at sunset. Join us in the park and watch a family movie under the night sky. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, a picnic and your family, but please no pets or alcohol. Smoking is also prohibited on Town Property. Concessions will be available for purchase. Free, no registration required. Leland Municipal Park, 102 Town Hall Dr.

SUMMER MOVIES AT THE LAKE

Free movies on Pleasure Island through September 2nd. Vacationers as well as residents from Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wilmington grab their kids, blankets and beach chairs and head to Carolina Beach Lake Park to enjoy a free outdoor movie on a ‘gigantic’ screen every Sunday at dusk! Movie-goers can purchase cotton candy, popcorn, candy, soft drinks and more—or bring a picnic. Sept.

2: “Paddington 2.” Carolina Beach Lake Park, Atlanta Ave.

SUMMER FILMS AT LIBRARY

Bring the kids to a family movie at Northeast Library! You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the show.

It’s free and there’s no need to register in advance. For information visit the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org, or contact the Northeast Library Children’s Room: 910-798-6373. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

art MEET LOCAL ARTISTS

Meet working artists, and see their works in progress. Everything from sculptures to fine jewelry in this unique location. Free parking, fun for everyone. Over 45 artist’s works to enjoy. Free, and we participate in the 4th Friday Art Walks, 6-9pm, 4th Fri. ea. mo. theArtWorks, 200 Willard St.

38 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

PLASTIC OCEAN

A solo exhibit, Plastic Ocean, by local artist Alexandra Morse is on display at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher for three months through September 2018. Come any day of the week during Aquarium hours, 9am-5pm, MondaySunday. Twenty percent of all proceeds will be donated to Plastic Ocean Project to help clean up our oceans and spread awareness of plastic pollution. All paintings are for sale and will be on display near the stingray tank in the Spadefish Gallery. Ticket cost is for entry into the Aquarium. Viewing the artwork in the gallery is free once inside. NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, 900 Loggerhead Rd.

FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT

Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, Wilmington’s premier after-hours celebration of art and culture, 6-9pm, fourth Friday of ea. month. Features art openings, artist demonstrations, entertainment and refreshments. Administered by the Arts Council of Wilmington & New Hanover County, numerous venues participate.

Full list: artscouncilofwilmington.org

NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE

Journey through this mirror-lined chamber housing an array of LED lights. The viewer walks toward a light but at the last minute is diverted to the main room. Lethe, chance art

by Leslie Milanese, depicts the first recorded NDE (Plato, 381 BC). Expo 216 gallerium, 216 N. Front St. Wed-Sun, noon-6pm, 910-7693899, www.expo216.com

WEIGHT OF WALLS

Nathan Verwey’s art work remains on display at Coworx in the Cargo District through Sept.

2. All work is for sale. 1608 Queen St.

dance CAPE FEAR CONTRA DANCERS

Come on out for two hours of energetic, contemporary American country dancing with live music by Box of Chocolates band—fiddle, percussion, guitar, dulcimer, bass, mandolin and more! Dress cool & comfortable, softsoled shoes. All ages. 2nd/4th Tues, 7:30pm.

United Methodist, 409 S. 5th Ave.

CARDIO HIP-HOP CLASS

Adults in the Wilmington NC area are invited to join Ashley Cates’ “Twerk & Tone” method of having fun and getting in shape. “Drop-In” to enjoy this fun opportunity at your convenience, and only pay for the classes you attend. No adv. enrollment and no previous experience necessary. $12 for 1 class; $50 for 5; $80 for 10. $80. www.thedanceelement.com.

7211 Ogden Business Ln. #205

BACHATA MONDAYS

Dsantos Dancers features three hours of bachata. Classes offered: Level 2, 7-8pm; level 1, 8-9pm; social dancing 9-10pm. Classes are $12-$15; social dancing, free. Packages, $50. www.dsantosnc.com. 4569 Technology Dr., 2

AFRICAN DANCE CLASS

Join Shea-Ra Nichi first Sat. through August from 10:30-noon for a community multigenerational African dance class. Class is open to anyone in the community and offered to encourage those who may not be able to afford African dance class regularly. No preregistration required. Sliding scale $5 - $15 per person (by honor system). Shea-Ra Nichi at shearanichi@gmail.com or 910-474-1134.

This class was meant to embrace the entire

CROSSWORD

Creators syndiCate THE NEWSDAY CROSSWORD

CREATORS SYNDICATE © 2017 STANLEY NEWMAN

WWW.STANXWORDS.COM

10/8/17

Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)

BOOKENDS: Ending as they start, in reverse

by S.N. ACROSS 1 Fred’s cartoon wife 6 Cybermoney 11 Circuit measures 15 Moved it 19 Optimal 20 Very, in music 21 Shape of a puck 22 Spot of land 23 Police story genre 25 New blogger’s selection, perhaps 27 Choir’s clothing 28 Giraffe cousin 30 German 31 Name on a slate 34 Official order 35 HS auxiliaries 36 Orioles’ grp.

37 Fire starter 38 GoodFellas Oscar winner 42 First stage, so to speak 43 Make more efficient 45 Shot in the dark 46 31 Across in 2000 47 Goat-man of myth 48 Horror film series addr.

50 ER VIPs 51 Ivy Leaguer 52 Honda alternatives 54 Piercing tools 55 Witherspoon of film 57 Leans back 59 With intensity 61 Ponce __ 62 Choir’s repertoire 63 Substantive 64 Mechanical helper 65 Tablet accessory 67 Far from convinced 68 Some string players

71 72 73 75 76 77 79 80 81 83 87 88 90 91 92 93 94 95 98 99 100 102 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114

Usher’s post On its way Basic food Do yard work Lab rodent Cantina food Small bills Roof ornament Trojan War instigator Sleepless in Seattle director Noncom’s nickname Pulitzer musical for 2016 Lab rodent Get set in a sedan Displease Cuban base, familiarly Generic neighbors Camry competitor “I beg to differ” Philosopher Kierkegaard Sure to work Big attraction Melody of India Change position Mideast capital Went public with Atmospheric emanation Rise rapidly Was trying to say Dorm accessories

DOWN 1 Take the crown 2 4 Down phrase 3 Floral necklace 4 Rite with rings 5 Kingly name of Spain 6 Function host 7 Foldable furniture

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 26 29 31 32 33 34 35 37 38 39 40 41 43 44 47 49 52 53 54 56 58 60 61

Boxing legend Was a sub Congestion sound Well versed La Bohème role Pro bono TV ad Jumps around Congestion sites HS exam Red Muppet “Home Cooking” chef Cynical comeback Sudden increase Dramatic opening Constant critic Soccer stadium chant User of Celsius Justice Kagan Lyrics, essentially Long-running disputes Part of PBJ Urban know-how Schoolyard comeback Norwegian playwright Demolishes In recent days Part of a Dracula costume Threefold Mozart-era dance Cookie baker’s buy Court figs.

The Time Machine race Lounge around Rowing implement Action figures, essentially

78 Hobby kits with colonies 80 City noted for oranges 82 Rather alike 84 Send forth 85 It borders Berlin 86 “Do it for my sake” 87 Gambia neighbor 89 Far from crisp 91 Innately 93 Errand runner

63 Brainy society 64 Put back in a corral 65 Duchess of York 66 Sparkly topper 67 Soak up knowledge 68 Narrow boat 69 Taste buds’ place 70 Loses no games 72 Satirical piece 74 Sculpted figure

94 95 96 97 98 99 101 103 104 105 106

Knee or knuckle Continental prefix Weigh (down) Ghana neighbor PBS science series Pond swimmer Symbolic hugs Doc bloc Sofa support Agent, for short Canine care deg.

Reach Stan Newman at P.O. Box 69, Massapequa Park, NY 11762, or at www.StanXwords.com

737 3rd street

n

hermosa beach, ca 90254

n

tel. (310) 337-7003

n

FaX (310) 337-7625

Kids Eat FREE! Bring your family in to Sweet n Savory through September 27th and October 1st.

1611 Pavilion Place, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.256.0115 www.sweetnsavory.cafe

Just cut out THIS golden ticket and redeem it any Sunday through Thursday after 4pm.

Promotional item only redeemable with purchase of adult entree. Children age 12 and under.

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 39

Port City community POP UP EXHIBIT

Aug. 29, 5-8pm: Springhill Suites Marriott at Mayfaire, in partnership with Art in Bloom Gallery, invite you to a special reception. A pop-up exhibit “Coastal Colors: Oil Paintings

by Debra Bucci.” Meet the artist and enjoy complimentary craft beer provided by Waterline Brewing Company . SpringHill Suites is located in the Mayfaire Shopping Center at 1014 Ashes Drive in Wilmington. Debra Bucci is a published illustrator and has achieved success as a licensed fine artist. She is an anchor artist at Art in Bloom Gallery and is showing work at The Cameron Art Museum.

Springfield Suites by Marriott at Mayfaire, 1014 Ashes Dr.

WALTZ GROUP CLASS

Monday nights, 7pm: Are you interested in learning the Waltz, but are not sure where to start with the dance? Or have you learned the basics and are needing to jog your memory by going over the basic steps again? Well, our level 1 class every Monday night in September is just the class for you, 7-8pm. Level 2 and 3 classes offered 8-9pm; $5 for military and students with ID, $10 per person, $15 per couple. Babs McDance, 6782 Market St.

EAST COAST SWING

Tues., 7pm: Are you interested in learning the East Coast Swing but are not sure where to start with the dance? Or have you learned the basics and are needing to jog your memory by going over the basic steps again? Well, our level 1 every Tuesday night in September, 7-8pm; 2 & 3, 8-9pm. East Coast Swing the night away with us! $5 for military and students with ID, $10 per person, $15 per

couple. 6782 Market St.

comedy OPEN MIC

The wildest open mic in town ... anything goes. (except cover songs). Stand-up comedy, slam poetry, video, live music, odd talents—performances of all kinds. Hosted by 6-beer Steve.

Sign up, 8pm, and runs all night. Juggling Gypsy 1612 Castle St. ILM, (910) 763-2223 daily after 3pm for details. jugglinggypsy.com.

COMEDY BINGO

Brent Blakeney headlines comedy bingo at Dead Crow, Tuesday nights, 8pm. Free show featuring the best comics from all over the Southeast, all while playing bingo along with the words they say! Win prizes and enjoy discount tacos! Hosted by Louis Bishop with inbooth side kick comedian Lew Morgante. Dead Crow Comedy Club, 265 N. Front St.

GRUFF GOAT COMEDY

On the first Wed. ea. month, Gruff Goat Comedy features Three Guest Comics Under a Bridge. No Trolls. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane

PRIMETIME COMEDY

Come see some of North Carolina’s best stand-up comedians in a world class venue!

This month our super talented performers are: Brett Williams, Cordero Wilson, Grant Sheffield, Louis Bishop, and Tyler Wood. Hosted by: Wills Maxwell. N Front Theatre (formerly City Stage), 21 N Front St.

CAROLINA COMEDY CUP

Wed. 9pm: Comedy King of the Carolina’s, Louis Bishop, will be bringing the Carolina

Comedy Cup to the Lazy Pirate again this year.

Louis started this well-anticipated Comedy Show here over 6 years ago and it is now the longest-running independent Comedy Competition in the Carolinas. More than 50 aspiring comics will be competing for beloved CCC Trophy and a grand prize of $500. For more details on the show and how to compete contact Louis Bishop. facebook.com/louisbishopcomedy. Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill, 701 N Lake Pk Blvd.

vised comedy show. 265 N. Front St. DAREDEVIL IMPROV CLASSES

Sept. 1, 11am: DareDevil Improv Classes teach you the fundamentals of the funny!

Learn to be more spontaneous, trust your instincts, and create one-of-a-kind comedy with an ensemble! (And even if you’re not a “performer”, our classes are a great way to meet people and have a hella good time!) Details and sign-ups: www.daredevilimprov.com.

Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 South 2nd St.

LUCKY JOE COMEDY SHOW

First Sat. ea. month is free show at Lucky Joe Craft Coffee on College Road presented by Regretful Villains. The show features a new style of stand-up called Speed Joking. Come enjoy a night of laughs and find your Comedic Soulmate! 1414 S College Rd.

DUNKING NUGGETS COMEDY TOUR

Sept. 1, 7:30pm: Dan LaMorte is a New York City based stand up comedian, comedy writer and podcaster. He has been seen doing panel on FOX’s Red Eye, had his stand up featured on NBC Universal’s COZI TV, was featured on the 2017 season of AXS TV’s Gotham Comedy Live and in January of 2017 he released his first album “Not Enough Pieces” through On Tour Records. The album got plenty of love on the iTunes comedy charts, it was met with great reviews and a lengthy stay as the number one best selling stand up album. The album is also a popular play on SiriusXM’s Raw Dog Channel, where Dan is a guest on their many shows such as the Raw Report and the Check Spot. When not on the road, Dan is a regular at the Comedy Cellar in New York City. $8 adv/$12 DOS. Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

DEAD CROW COMEDY ROOM

Aug. 31-Sept. 1, 7pm/9:30pm: Port City’s Top Comic is in its 11th year! It’s a comedy competition for local and regional comedians. Winners are voted on by the audience members during the preliminary rounds Friday and Saturday night. Those chosen will advance to the final round on Sunday. Submissions limited to 40 contestants and we will crown 1 winner! So, if you know someone that is funny, have them sign up at the Dead Crow Comedy Club! Each Comic will get 8 minutes to perform during one of the four shows Friday and Saturday. The winners of each of those shows face off during the championship round Sunday night. Ticketss: http://deadcrowcomedy.com. 265 N. Front St.

LIVE RIFFING AND VINTAGE TV

Every Wed. you can join us at Dead Crow Comedy for Improv night. Join local comedians for a TV party at Dead Crow! An interactive impro-

museums CAMERON ART MUSEUM

SPECIALS

On exhibit: “A Time When Art Is Everywhere: teamLab,” an art collective and interdisciplin-

MONDAYS KIDS EAT FREE with purchase of adult meal and combo TUESDAY BENEFIT NIGHT Contact us to host your next benefit night WEDNEDAY WINE WEDNESDAY half price wine THURSDAY PI(E)NT NIGHT $3.14 BEER

40 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

ary group of programmers, engineers, CG animators, mathematicians artists and architects, creates digital artworks that bridge art, science, technology, design and the natural world. Designs are immersive interpretations deeply rooted in Japanese art, aesthetic and history. Investigating what they term â&#x20AC;&#x153;ultrasubjective (non-hierarchical) spaceâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;cocreation (among other objectives)â&#x20AC;? teamLab proves their belief that the digital domain can expand art. Intearctive installations include Sketch Aquarium (color a drawing of a sea creature and watch the image project onto a giant virtual aquarium); Story of the Time When Gods Were Everywhere (touch symbols on the screen and see them evolve into the images they represent); and Flower and Corpse Glitch, an evolving story featuring the theme of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The clash, cycle, and symbiosis between nature and culture.â&#x20AC;? Through Sept.

8, 2019 â&#x20AC;˘ Like and Likeness, Sept. 4-30: A visitor participatory experience and exploration of the human form.CAM visitors can draw using traditional and new media, working from paper on easels and ipads, copying figurative drawings and sculptural works in plaster, marble, and bronze from CAMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s permanent collection. â&#x20AC;˘ Feather by Feather, The Sculptures of Grainger McKoy, Sept. 29Feb. 17, 2019: From the detailed beginnings of the single iconic feather, Grainger McKoy transforms his intricately carved birds into gravity-defying sculptures that play with form and space. â&#x20AC;˘ Along the Eastern Sea Road: Hiroshigeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fifty-three Stations of the TĹ?kaidĹ?, Sept. 29-Feb. 17, 2019: Master printmaker Utagawa Hiroshigeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fifty-Three Stations of the TĹ?kaidĹ? is among the most celebrated works of Japanese art. This series depicts the spectacular landscapes and fascinating characters encountered on the journey from Edo (now Tokyo) to the imperial capital of Kyoto. The TĹ?kaidĹ? road was the mosttraveled route between these two important cities, figuring heavily into popular Japanese art and culture in the mid-1800s. Cameron Art Museum presents the complete set of 55 prints from Hiroshigeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s monumental oban series, known as the Upright TĹ?kaidĹ?, created in 1855. â&#x20AC;˘ Nearer to Nature, Sept. 29 - Feb. 17, 2019 Humans have always been inspired and influenced by the world that surrounds us. Featuring artwork from CAMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s permanent collection, Nearer to Nature highlights this fascination and contemplation of the natural world. Artists in the exhibition include Elliott Daingerfield, Minnie Evans, William Frerichs, Will Henry Stevens, along with contemporary artists such as Mark Flood, Guy LaramĂŠe and Hiroshi Sueyoshi. â&#x20AC;˘ Illumination, Dec. 1- Jan. 6, 2019: The highly popular Illumination returns for itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3rd year to CAM. Drawing inspiration from traditional lantern festivals, marking the transitional moment of seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s change and yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s end, reflecting on the past while garnering energy for the future. CAM recognizes the crucial role of artists and art in creating an exceptional quality of life for a community. Art, like a lantern, illuminates the mystery, empathy and wonder of human existence. On Sunday, December 9 from 4-7 p.m. will be the third annual Floating Lantern Ceremony: This event is an opportunity for Remembrance, Reflection and Gratitude. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no charge to attend, but participants are encouraged to purchase a $12 lantern sleeve they may personalize and then float on the CAM reflecting pond.â&#x20AC;˘ CAM

CafĂŠ open and serving delicious menu with full bar, 5pm-9pm. Tues.-Sun., 11am-2pm; Thurs. nights, 5pm-9pm 910-395-5999. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St. WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM

WB Museum of History, housed in the turn of the century Myers Cottage, exists to preserve and to share the history of Wrightsville Beach.

Visitors to the cottage will find a scale model of Wrightsville Beach circa 1910, exhibits featuring the early days of the beach including Lumina Pavilion, our hurricane history and information about the interaction between the people and our natural environment which have shaped the 100 year history of WB. (910) 256-2569. 303 W. Salisbury St. www.wbmuseum.com.

WILMINGTON RAILROAD MUSEUM

Explore railroad history and heritage, especially of the Atlantic Coast Line, headquartered in Wilmington for 125 years. Interests and activities for all ages, including historical exhibits, full-size steam engine and rolling stock, lively Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall, and spectacular model layouts. House in an authentic 1883 freight warehouse, facilities are fully accessible and on one level. By reservation, discounted group tours, caboose birthday parties, and after-hours meetings or mixers. Story Time on 1st/3rd Mon. at 10:30am, only $5 per family and access to entire Museum. Admission only $9 adult, $8 senior/military, $5 child, ages 2-12, and free under age 2. 505 Nutt St. 910-763-2634. www. wrrm.org.

LATIMER HOUSE

Victorian Italiante style home built in 1852, the restored home features period furnishings, artwork and family portraits. Tours offered Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. Latimer House of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. Third St.

cube and 1960s Liddle Kiddle dolls are on exhibit along with toy figures from fast food kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; meals. Explore toy history in custom label books. Play, create, and imagine in Cape Fear Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest exhibit, PlayTime! Engage with museum educators in these short, drop-in programs. Activities change weekly and may include puzzles, games, blocks, and more. Adult participation is required.

Fun for all ages! Free for members or with general admission â&#x20AC;˘ See NC through the eyes of Wilmington-born photographer Hugh MacRae Morton (1921-2006). His captivating images will be featured in the traveling exhibit â&#x20AC;&#x153;Photographs by Hugh Morton: An Uncommon Retrospective,â&#x20AC;? is now open at Cape Fear Museum. The exhibit is on loan from the UNC Libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NC Collection Photographic Archives and will be on view through September 2018. â&#x20AC;˘ Camera Collections! With todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smart phones and digital cameras, photography is everywhere. But until the invention of the camera in 1839, there was no way to instantly capture the environment around you. In less than 200 years, cameras have progressed from complicated contraptions only used by professionals, to simple boxes with a roll of film anyone could operate, to handheld computers that create digital images shared with the world. 86 cameras and 145 photographic accessories showcases changes in technology and styles, from the late 1800s through the early 2000s. www. capefearmuseum.com/programs. $8/adults, $7/seniors, college & military, $5/youth. CF Museum, 814 Market St. EXPO 216

Exhibit feat. end-of-life issues. Enter Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House and address the elephant in the

room. Pick up an advance directive. Review the History of Hospice . Contemplate individual responses of compassion in the arena. Expo 216 gallerium, 216 N. Front St. Wed.-Sun., noon-6pm. expo216.com.

kids stuff MUSEUM EXPLORERS

Sat., 2pm: Ignite your curiosity! Discover history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear through hands-on exploration and unique artifacts. Our activities are designed to stimulate curiosity and encourage families to have fun together. Themes vary. Ideal for ages 5 and up. Approximately 45 minutes each time slot. Adult participation is required. Free for members w/admission. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

MESSY HAND TODDLER ART

Toddlers and their adults enjoy a messy, hands-on art experience where they focus on exploring art materials and processes, rather than on the end product. Children ages 2 to 4, and each child must be accompanied by an adult. Everyone should make sure to wear clothes that can get messy. Free but space is limited and advance registration is required. www.nhclibrary.org or by calling 910-7986303. Krista Dean at 910-798-6368 or Raquel Fava at 910-798-6365. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.

PLANETARIUM ADVENTURES

Cool off and enjoy an exciting full-dome film in Cape Fear Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s digital planetarium most Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons, 2pm. These family-friendly programs are fun and appropriate for all ages. Space is limited

BELLAMY MANSION

One of NCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans, for John Dillard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, planter and business leader; and his wife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (1821-1907) and their nine children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington. Now a museum, it focuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action. 910-2513700. bellamymansion.org. 503 Market St.

BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE

18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th and 19th century decor and gardens.

Colonial life is experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen-building and courtyard. 3rd/Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. 910-762-0570. www.burgwinwrighthouse.com.

CAPE FEAR MUSEUM

Hundreds of toys and games are on view in PlayTime!â&#x20AC;&#x201D;classics, like Lincoln Logs, toy soldiers, an Erector set and a Mr. Potato Head, and even old faves like wooden tops, blocks and dolls. Remember those toys that, for whatever reason, we just had to have?

Some of those fad favorites like the Rubikâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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and adult participation is required. Free for members of with general admission. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St. PRE-K ART TIME

Preschool kids ages 2-4 are invited to Pleasure Island Library to create, learn, and play with art materials and activities! Please wear clothes that can get messy! Free but space is limited. To make sure your preschooler has a seat, register on the calendar at www.

NHCLibrary.org or by calling 910-798-6385.

Meaghan Weiner at mweiner@nhcgov. com/910-798-6385. NHC PI Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

ILM COOPERATIVE SCHOOL CAMPS

Wilmington Cooperative School is hosting Throwback Summer Camps: Water Camp (August 6-10). $125/ week. Wilmington Cooperative School, 4830 Randall Pkwy.

MIDDAY MUSICALS

Main library in downtown Wilmington announces a series of PG and PG-13 film screenings for families to enjoy this summer.

The films will all be musicals, because “Libraries Rock!” is the theme of Summer Reading 2018. Free and no registration is required to attend. Audience members may bring their own snacks and drinks. Reference Desk at 910-798-6301. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.

PRE-K MUSIC PLAY

Miss Shannon is leading musical play dates at Northeast Library for families with preschoolers this summer! Play and music build early literacy skills, so expect finger plays, songs, scarves and fun! PreK Music Play is free;

no registration is required. Shannon Vaughn: svaughn@nhcgov.com. 910-798-6303. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. KIDS CLUB

Join the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History and the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher for a program on fish! Kids will play a game of Fish or Not Fish and learn about different types of fish such as sharks. Free kid’s events every Wednesday from June to August. They are educational events with a different theme each week, all held at the museum at 10:30am. See website for more info: http://wbmuseumofhistory.com/play-learn-at-the-museum/kids-club.

ART CART

Aug. 29, 3:30pm: Kids ages 6 to 11 are invited to visit Pleasure Island Library’s Creation Station to make their own stress balls and spinners. This activity is free and no registration is required. Meaghan Weiner at mweiner@ nhcgov.com or 910-798-6385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD

Aug. 30, 4pm: New Hanover County Public Library is looking for teens with ideas about how to make the library even more awesome.

Volunteer credit hours will be offered for participating. Please register to attend, on the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org or by calling 910-798-6371.Northeast Regional Library, NHC 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

ENGINEERING CHALLENGE

Sept. 1, 2pm: Free for members or with general admission Think like an engineer! Design, build, and test a prototype of your creation.

Drop in anytime from 2 to 3 PM to put your skills

to the test. Perfect for kids age 5 and up and their adult helper. Free for members or with general admission. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St. SCARE SQUAD

Sept. 4, 6pm: Teen volunteers are invited to build scary props and design a haunted house in the basement of Main Library! This activity is for ages 13 to 18, and credit for volunteer hours will be given for high school students.

No advance registration is required, just show up at Main Library and take the elevator to the basement. Mr. Scooter at 798-6393 or shayes@nhcgov.com

recreation/sports WALK WITH A DOC

Join us the 3rd Saturday of every month at 9am for a fun and healthy walk—held at the Midtown YMCA. Each walk beings with a brief physician-led discussion of a current health topic, then he/she spends time walking, answering questions and talking with walkers.

Choose your own pace and distance. Free and open to anyone. YMCA Midtown, George Anderson Dr.

BIRDING CRUISE

Join the Cape Fear Naturalist as he guides you on an open water exploration of the Intracoastal Waterway, inlet passages, and sandy barrier islands of Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. Topics will include a strong emphasis on shorebird identification and ecology, as well as coastal salt marsh function. $45 per passenger; RSVP. 910-200-4002 or

http://wrightsvillebeachscenictours.com. Metered street parking only. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

TIDAL CREEK TUESDAYS

Join Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours for an hour and a half boat tour focused on the ecology of local tidal creeks! We will discuss water quality, pollution sources, and the flora and fauna of the area. While discussing the functions of our salt marshes, we will assist you in identifying local plant and bird species. $45 a person; must RSVP. 910-200-4002 to book your trip. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

SUNSET PADDLE

Free, family-friendly sunset paddle event, appropriate for all ages and skill levels. Refreshments provided by Waterman’s Brewing Company. Weekly meetup at 6pm; event begins at 6:30pm. Experienced paddleboard instructors available for tutorials. Following the paddle, the Sea Escape pool bar has live music, casual dining and refreshing drinks. Blockade Runner Beach Resort, 275 Waynick Blvd.

INSHORE BOTTOM FISHING

Join us on Shamrock for our daily Inland Bottom Fishing cruises. We provide rod, tackle, bait and license as well as local knowledge.

Try your luck going after flounder, bluefish and sea bass for two hours of fishing the teeming and beautiful waters of Masonboro Sound.

Cost: $40/person (includes guide and all necessary licenses) Reservations required. 910200-4002.wrightsvillebeachscenictours.com.

FALL ON NE CAPE FEAR

Sept. 1, 10am: Fall marks the transition from summer to winter, in September when the du-

• Wings • Salads • • Sandwiches • Seafood • • Steaks • Ribs • Chicken • Pasta •

16 Cold Draft Beers

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ration of daylight becomes noticeably shorter and the temperature cools down, embrace the season with this cruise. Travel up the Northeast Cape Fear River for a 2-hour narrated cruise with highlights of ecology and history. See the season changing flora and fauna, as we cruise past the bluffs and the Castle Hayne Aquifer.

Keep an eye open for migrating birds. Adult $17, Child $10. Between Orange and Ann Street on the waterfront, the ticketing office is on the Wilmington Riverwalk. Look for the blue and white vessels. /wilmingtonwatertours.net/ tour-calendar. Wilmington Water Tours LLC, 212 S. Water St.

classes PAPERMAKING CLASSES

Wed., 6pm: Adults explore different papermaking techniques so you can make each sheet of paper unique. All materials included, but we encourage bringing in some of your own materials that you can include into your paper—such as flat mementos and plants. See samples on our Facebook and website. Adult and children classes held on Sat., 2pm. Sign up: alunaworks.com. 603 Castle St.

ART CLASSES W/LOIS DEWITT

Mon., 3pm, watercolor workshops, with coastal themes. • Wed., 9:30am, colored pencil drawing, simply still life. • Thurs., 2pm, acrylic painting workshops. Stamp and stencil. All materials included. All ages and learning levels welcome. www.free-online-art-classes.com/ wilmingtonncartclasses.html. Sun Room Studio, 6905 Southern Exposure

YOGA 101

Phyllis Rollins is a certified intermediate Iyengar teacher and practitioner of yoga for 37 years. Her classes incorporate the philosophy of yoga and the role of the mind in practice.

She enjoys working with students on their individual difficulties to find avenues for growth.

Phyllis is the founder of the first yoga studio in Charlotte. $30 per class. All four, $110. Friday night required for Sat. classes due to progressive nature.

ADULT CRAFTERNOONS

A new monthly meet-up for adults who enjoy crafting. Drop in on the first Monday afternoon of every month at the Northeast Library. A different usable craft project will be featured each month. Free program, with all supplies provided by a Friends of NHC Library LEAD Award.

Reserve spot on calendar at www.NHCLibrary. org or 910-798-6371. Librarian Annice Sevett: asevett@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

MEDITATE + CHILL

Addie Jo Bannerman, Melissa Middlebrook + Jenny Yarborough every Tuesday from 7:308:30pm at Terra Sol Sanctuary. We’ll guide you through a 20-30 minute meditation to help you take a deep breath. Relax. Let go. Make space. After our meditation, we’ll make space to chill. Find connection. Talk things out. Meet and greet. No need for Netflix. Let’s get real.

All levels welcome. Terra Sol Sanctuary, 507 Castle St.

FINISH IT

Wed, 4pm: Do you knit, crochet, needlepoint, or enjoy another craft? Got unfinished projects lurking in your closets? Bring a project to the library and work on it with other crafty people,

on the first Wednesday of every month from 4-6 pm (no July date). This library group is free and no reservations are needed. Annice Sevett at asevett@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. UPCYCLE YOUR CDS

Got a pile of old CDs stuffed in a drawer, binder, or garage shelf somewhere? Explore ways to turn those CD’s into works of art to decorate your home. Hands-on workshop is free but space is limited. To make sure you have a seat, register on the calendar at www.NHCLibrary. org or by calling 910-798-6301.NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.

EXPRESS YOURSELF! WRITING WORKSHOP

High school students express their opinions and sharpen their writing skills in this workshop group with Cassie Mannes Murray, an experienced high school English teacher who loves working with teens. Community service hours will be awarded for active participation. Meets Tues./Thurs. afternoons through August 9. Finished work will be displayed in the Library, and presented at an Open Mike the evening of August 14. Free but space is limited and registration is required, on the calendar, nhclibrary.org or by calling 910-798-6301. Participants must be entering 9th to 12th grade for the upcoming school year. Dorothy Hodder at 910-798-6323 or dhodder@nhcgov.com. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.

CRAFTEEN MINI GARDENS

Crafty teens are invited for snacks and miniature garden making at Northeast Library.

Hands-on workshop is free but space is limited. To make sure there are enough seats and supplies, please register on the calendar at www.NHCLibrary.org or 910-798-6371. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

FITNESS CLASSES

Yoga: Thursdays, 5:30pm: Participants must bring their own yoga mat to class. Class dates: Aug.23, 30 and Sept. 6. Free! Children ages 12-17 can participate with adult. • Zumba: Thurdays, 5:30pm: Sept. 13, 20, 27; Oct. 4, 11, & 18. Free. Children ages 12-17 can participate with adult • Mother & Daughter Self Defense, Wed., 5:30pm. Girls ages 11-19 & Adult.

Free. Session: Wed., Sept. 5 thru Oct. 10 (6 classes). Registration for the entire 6 weeks is required. Participants are asked to attend each class due to the program being progression based with new things taught at each class.

Pre-reg. rqd. Maides Park, 1101 Manly Ave. www.wilmingtonrecreation.com

LIVING ORIGINALLY

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Aug. 22, 7pm: Three Week Class, Wed., 7pm, through Sept. 5. Explore how most of our perceived problems stem not from the world, but from a false sense of self. Living originally is the art of knowing the truth about who you are.

This class is based upon the book’s 10 spiritual practices for a re-discovery of our true selves.

Love offering. Unity of Wilmington, 717 Orchard Ave.

WHO DO YOU LOVE: GOD OR A PASTOR?

Aug. 28, 6pm: As millions of Church goers and truth seekers take their weekly trek to their place of worship, the Israelite Church of God In Jesus Christ has a question for them all: who do they love, God? Or their Pastors? The Pastors of the sheep throughout the city of Wilmington continuously teach people to sin against God in their ignorance of the scriptures and now it’s time for a change. We are inviting the citizens of Wilmington to come out and learn

the truth. Downtown Library, 201 Chestnut St. BEGINNERS MODERN CALLIGRAPHY

Aug. 29, 6:15pm: This fun, low-stress class will cover the traditional basics of pointed pen - but with a modern twist! All-inclusive with supplies provided, hands-on instruction and refreshments. $95 | www.southernbeedesigns.com/ workshops | 6:15 pm | Pink Baking Co. Taught by professional calligrapher, Brooke Helton of Southern Bee Designs: 910-620-8859 for more info. Pink Baking Co., 114 N. Front St.

LIVING LONGER, LIVING SMARTER

Sept. 4, 4pm: AARP presents a series of four programs on “Living Longer and Living Smarter” in cooperation with Northeast Library.

Deciding where you want to live in later life is critical for quality of life. This first session addresses Aging in Place and offers advice for extending the time you can live independently in your own home. Free but space is limited; register on the calendar at www.NHCLibrary. org. 910-798-6371. Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

LEARN AND MAKE: CERAMIC SOAP DISH

Sept. 4, 6:30pm: No more squishy soap! Learn to create a unique soap dish that drains water leaving your soap intact. Several styles to choose from. Class 1: Learn about the different drainage styles and create your one of a kind soap dish. Class 2: Choose a Beautycounter clay mask to wear that focuses on clearing, balancing or plumping your skin while you glaze your soap dish creations. Your soap dishes will come with a bar of Rose Neroli Hand Soap ($15 value) by Beautycounter. This luxurious bar gently cleanses hands without over-drying them, leaving behind a fresh floral scent. The finely milled formula features hydrating organic shea butter and antioxidant-packed organic marula and mongongo oils. Fiasco Working Art Studio, 553 Castle St.

lectures/literary BEGIN THE CONVERSATION CLINICS

Lower Cape Fear Hospice will host free Begin the Conversation clinics from 10-11 a.m. the third Fri. of ea. mo., Phillips LifeCare & Counseling Ctr., 1414 Physicians Dr. Free, 18 and older, will provide attendees information and resources to think about and plan for future healthcare decisions. Attendees will receive specific strategies for initiating conversations that can significantly reduce family stress and improve quality of care. Advance directives supplied so healthcare instructions can be legally documented. Jason: 910-796-7943. jason.clamme@lcfh.org.

WALK WITH A DOC

3rd Sat. of every month at 9am for a fun and healthy walk—held at the Midtown YMCA. Each walk beings with a brief physician-led discussion of a current health topic, then he/ she spends time walking, answering questions and talking with walkers. Choose your own pace and distance. Free, open to anyone.

YMCA MIdtown, George Anderson Dr.

DISCUSSION AND DISCOVERY

Wed., 6pm: Discover women and femme identified writers! Come to our weekly book club and free write where no advance reading is necessary. Every week we will read excerpts from thought provoking essays, stories, and poems to expand our wheel house and continue our exploration of diversity. We will be se-

lecting excerpts from books carried in-house and delving into discussions on themes and perspectives that we may have grasped from immersing ourselves in these texts. Don’t worry, no prior reading is needed! With titles changing weekly and free writing during our discussions, Discussion & Diversity is not something you’ll want to miss out on! Athenian Bookstore & Lounge, 2231 Wrightsville Ave. LET’S TALK BOOKS!

A different kind of book club! This weekly meeting offers book lovers a chance to meet and compare notes about favorite books and authors. Attendance is free and advance registration is not needed, just drop in! Teresa Bishop at tbishop@nhcgov.com. 910-7986385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

TOUCH TANK TUESDAYS

Drop in for Touch Tank Tuesday and see what kinds of plants and animals are living in the waters of Wrightsville Beach. Every Tuesday, June through August from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Each week a variety of coastal plants and animals are carefully collected—from purple sea urchins and red and green algae, to blue crabs and orange horse conchs. Guests can learn about local critters and coastal habitats where they can be found. Interactive stations for guests to enjoy are also offered in addition to the touch tanks. Adult should accompany children under 15. 910-509-2838 ext.

204. Supported by Holiday Inn Resort and the Landfall Foundation. Fred and Alice Stanback Education Center, 309 W. Salisbury St.

SEACOAST PLANTS FO CAROLINAS

Aug. 23, 7pm: Paul E. Hosier will be reading and discussing his guide to native coastal zone Carolina plants, with a special emphasis on the benefits of conserving and landscaping with native plants. This accessibly written and authoritative guide updates the beloved and much-used 1970s classic Seacoast Plants of the Carolinas. In this completely reimagined book, Paul E. Hosier provides a rich, new reference guide to plant life in the coastal zone of the Carolinas for nature lovers, gardeners, landscapers, students, and community leaders. Paul E. Hosier is professor emeritus of botany at the UNCW. Pomegranate Books, 4418 Park Ave.

ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20)

In “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” our heroine encounters a talking caterpillar as he smokes a hookah on top of a tall mushroom. “Who are you?” he asks her. Alice is honest: “I know who I was when I got up this morning, but I think I must have been changed several times since then.” She says this with uneasiness. In the last few hours, she has twice been shrunken down to a tiny size and twice grown as big as a giant. All these transformations have unnerved her. In contrast to Alice, I’m hoping you’ll have a positive attitude about your upcoming shifts and mutations, Aries. From what I can tell, your journey through the Season of Metamorphosis should be mostly fun and educational.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Aug. 28, 6pm: New Hanover County Northeast Library’s Teen LGBTQ Book Club is discussing short stories from the anthology “All Out: The No Longer Secret Stories of Queer Teens Throughout the Ages.” Check the calendar at

I foresee the withering of a hope or the disappearance of a prop or the loss of leverage. This ending may initially make you feel melancholy, but I bet it will ultimately prove beneficent—and maybe lead you to resources previously unavailable. Here are rituals you could perform that may help you catalyze the specific kind of relief and release you need: 1. Wander around a graveyard and sing songs you love. 2. Tie one end of a string around your ankle and the other around an object that symbolizes an influence you want to banish from your life. Cut the string and bury the object. 3. Say this 10 times: “The end makes the beginning possible.”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

One of the big stories of 2018 concerns your effort to escape from a starcrossed trick of fate—to fix a long-running tweak that has subtly undermined your lust for life. How successful will you be in this heroic quest? That will hinge in part on your faith in the new power you’ve been developing. Another factor to determine the outcome is your ability to identify and gain access to a resource that is virtually magical, even though it appears nondescript. I bring this to your attention, Gemini, because I suspect a key plot twist in this story will soon unfold.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

Potential new allies are seeking entrance to your domain. Existing allies aspire to be closer to you. I’m worried you may be a bit overwhelmed; that you might not exercise sufficient discrimination. I therefore urge you to ask yourself questions about each candidate. 1. Does the person understand what it means to respect your boundaries? 2. What are his or her motivations for wanting contact with you? 3. Do you truly value and need the gifts each person has to give you? 4. Everyone in the world has a dark side. Can you intuit the nature of each person’s dark side? Is it tolerable? Is it interesting?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

While a young man, the future Roman leader Julius Caesar was kidnapped

by Sicilian pirates. They proposed a ransom of 620 kilograms of silver. Caesar was incensed at the small size of the ransom—he believed he was worth more—and demanded his captors raise the sum to 1,550 kilograms. I’d love to see you unleash that kind of bravado in the coming weeks, Leo—preferably without getting yourself kidnapped. In my opinion, it’s crucial you know how valuable you are, and make sure everyone else knows, as well.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Romanian philosopher Emil Cioran loved the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. “Without Bach, God would be a complete second-rate figure,” he testified, adding, “Bach’s music is the only argument proving the creation of the Universe cannot be regarded as a complete failure.” I invite you to emulate Cioran’s passionate clarity, Virgo. From an astrological perspective, now is an excellent time to identify people and things that consistently invigorate your

The first film credit for NORA

LIBRA (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Juan Villarino has hitchhiked over 2,350 times in 90 countries. His free rides have carried him over 100,000 miles. He has kept detailed records, so he’s able to say with confidence that Iraq is the best place to catch a lift. Average wait time there is 7 minutes. Jordan and Romania are good, too, with 9- and 12-minute waits, respectively. In telling you about his success, I don’t mean to suggest now is a favorable time to hitchhike. But I do want you to know the coming weeks will be prime time to solicit favors, garner gifts, and make yourself available for metaphorical equivalents of free rides. You’re extra magnetic and attractive. How could anyone could resist providing you with the blessings you need and deserve?

tors syndiCate LGBTQIA TEEN BOOK CLUB

excitement about your destiny. Maybe you have just one shining exemplar, like Cioran, or maybe you have more. Home in on the phenomena that in your mind embody the glory of creation.

“If a man treats a life artistically, his brain is his heart,” Oscar Wilde wrote. I’ll translate it into a more complete version: “If a person of any gender treats life artistically, their brain is their heart.” This truth will be especially applicable for you in coming weeks. You’ll be wise to treat your life artistically. You’ll thrive by using your heart as your brain. I advise you to wield your intelligence with love.

Understand your most incisive insights will come when you’re feeling empathy and seeking intimacy. As you crystallize clear visions about the future, make sure they are generously suffused with ideas about how you and your people can enhance your joie de vivre.

“My tastes are simple,” Sagittarian politician Winston Churchill testified. “I am easily satisfied with the best.” I propose we make it your motto for now. While it may not be a sound idea to demand only the finest of everything all the time, I think it will be wise for you to do so during the next three weeks. You will have a mandate to resist trifles and insist on excellence. Luckily, this should motivate you to raise your own standards and expect the very best from yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Russian playwright Anton Chekhov articulated a principle he felt was essential to telling a good story: If you say early in your tale there’s a rifle hanging on the wall, that rifle must eventually be used. “If it’s not going to be fired, it shouldn’t be hanging there,” Chekhov declared. We might wish real life unfolded with such clear dramatic purpose. To have our future well-foreshadowed would make it easier to plan our action, but that’s not often the case. Many elements pop up in our personal stories that ultimately serve no purpose. Except now, that is, for you Capricorns. I suspect in the next six weeks, plot twists will be telegraphed in advance.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Would it be fun to roast marshmallows on long sticks over scorching volcanic vents? I suppose. Would it be safe? No! Aside from the possibility you could get burned, the sulfuric acid in the vapors would make the cooked marshmallows taste terrible and might cause them to explode. I advise you to refrain from adventures like that. On the other hand, I will love it if you cultivate a playful spirit as you contemplate serious decisions. I’m in favor of you keeping a blithe attitude as you navigate your way through tricky maneuvers. I hope you’ll be jaunty in the midst of rumbling commotions.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

People will be thinking about you more than usual and with greater intensity.

Allies and acquaintances will be revising their opinions and understandings about you, mostly in favorable ways, although not always. Loved ones and notso-loved ones will be reworking their images of you, coming to altered conclusions about what you mean to them and what your purpose is. Given these developments, I suggest you be proactive about express your best intentions and display your finest attributes.

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Delicious starts right here COME CHECK OUT OUR CHALKBOARD SPECIALS Breakfast ~ Lunch ~ Dinner 4001 Wrightsville Avenue Wilmington, NC (910) 765-1103 Serving dinner Wednesday - Saturday Brunch on Sunday Hours: Closed Monday â&#x20AC;¢ Tues. 9am-4pm Wed. - Sat. 9am-9pm, Sun. 8am-2pm

46 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

www.nhclibrary.org for story titles. Meetings of the Teen LGBTQ Book Club are free and no registration is needed to attend. Grant Hedrick at ghedrick@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6372.

Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd HE GRASPS THE HEEL

Aug. 31, 6pm: Todd Sherman’s newest novella, “He Graps the Heel,” will be released on the heels (ahem) of a special brew by Ironclad Brewery. The staff was gracious enough to not interrupt the author while penning two entire chapters of his absurdist work within their very walls—all while shamelessly excusing the vainglorious act with doom metal tunes and seriously tasty brews. Nothing Bundt Cakes will be on hand with samples in case you don’t want to merely drink your dinner. Author will have plenty of his previous works on site in the event of any large spills. All cash proceeds from book sales to be donated to Heifer International!

Ironclad Brewery, 115 N 2nd St.

FIRST SUNDAY LECTURE

Sept. 2, 2:30pm: Jack Morton: Explore a selection of Hugh Morton’s iconic photographs of North Carolina chosen by his grandson, Jack Morton. Jack is the third generation of Mortons to embrace photography, and is a professional photographer based in the Triangle. He’ll showcase some of his favorite Hugh Morton photographs, and show a few of his own! After the talk, visit the Photographs by Hugh Morton: An Uncommon Retrospective. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

culinary FERMENTAL

Free tasting every Friday, 6pm. Third Wed. of each month feat. musical and brewing talents alongside an open mic night, as well as the opportunity for homebrewers to share, sample, and trade their creations: an evening of beer and an open stage. PA and equipment provided. All genres and beer styles. • Aug. 30, 6pm: As part of their continual brewery event series, Fermental proudly hosts GRIMM Artisanal Ales of Brooklyn, NY, for an evening of tastings, multiple drafts, bottles, cans, live music, food trucks, and more. GRIMM beers are often Belgian-inspired ales with plenty of tasty sours and saisons under their belt alongside massively-hopped American IPAs, German-Style Goses, Imperial Stouts, Barrel Aged Beers, Experimental Ales, and more. Opportunity to ask questions, sample draft selections, purchase bottles, enjoy giveaways, food trucks, live music, and more. 2 Bros Coastal Cuisine, 6pm; Cafe Nouveau Jazz Trio, 7pm. fermental.net.

910-821-0362. 7250 Market St.

FREE BREWERY TOURS AND TASTINGS

3pm, 3:45pm, 4:30pm everyday at Front Street Brewery, 9 N. Front St. Learn how we brew our beer, meet brewers and get two free samples.

PORT CITY FARMERS’ MARKET

Tues., 5pm: Join us for a wonderful, exciting night of fun. Port City Farmer’s Market at Waterline Brewing Co. 100% local, 100% handmade.

Shop among some incredible local vendors, artists and farmers. Support small businesses in your area. Fresh local produce, beef and pork products, sweets, pickled items, handcrafted jewelry and art. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Ln.

FARMERS’ MARKETS

Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr, Thursdays 2-6pm, year-round, excluding major holidays. Support local farmers and artisans in the beer garden Thursday afternoons. Shop for veggies, meat, eggs, honey and hand-made crafts while enjoying one of the Brewery’s many delicious beers. Stay afterward for live music! wbbfarmersmarket@ gmail.com • Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market, Mon, 8am-1pm • Poplar Grove Farmers’ Market, Wed., 8am-1pm • Riverfront Farmers, Sat., 8am: Market features all local produce, products and artisan works. A seasonal, openair market located along the first block of North Water St. and in adjoining Riverfront Park in historic downtown Wilmington along the Cape Fear River. Locally grown and produced fruits and vegetables, baked goods, meats, plants, locally caught seafood, handmade artisan works, fresh-cut flower bouquets and more are available. 5 N. Water St. SHAKESPEARE BRUNCH

Reserved seating. $5 of every ticket sold will go to a local Shakespeare Educational Outreach Program. Monthly Sunday Brunch featuring a greatly abridged reading of one of Shakespeare’s classic plays. Brunch and dessert with choice of entrée included in your ticket. Drinks and gratuity not included. Portion of proceeds donated to Shakespearean educational outreach programs. Upcoming: 9/23: Much Ado About Nothing; 10/21: Richard III; 11/18: Merchant of Venice. TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th St.

SOUR BARN 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Sat., Sept. 1, noon-11pm: Two sessions to choose from with live music & DJ, local and import craft draft beer, games, raffles and food trucks at each session. Over 15 different Broomtail and Guest beers on tap as well as special releases and sour beer rarities. VIP/ GA tickets on sale in tasting room or online.

Each ticket includes: Admission to the session of choice; Sour Barn commemorative beer glass; swag bag of SB goodies; two draft beer tokens. Additional tokens available for purchase at the event. $30-$40. We need 4-6 volunteers for each session: eric@sourbarn.com if you can help. www.facebook.com/ events/235616253919833. The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

support groups WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP

Grades 7-12: Wilmington Pride Youth Group is a safe space for youth who identify as LGBTQIA+ and their straight allies. An adult supervised, safe space for kids to talk about orientation, gender, racial equality, political consequences, religion, self care. Also a great opportunity to meet and socialize with peers from the greater Wilmington area. Meets Thurs., 7pm. Needed: youth facilitators, especially those who are trained to work with kids, and speakers to talk about important topics. wpyg2016@gmail.com.

ANXIETY / OCD SUPPORT GROUP

Group meets 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Building B. Christopher Savard, Ph.D., with Cape Fear Psychological Services, gives a presentation the 1st Thursday of each month. 3rd Thursday meeting is member led. Everyone 18+ welcome. 910-

763-8134 MS SUPPORT GROUP

Those with MS, families and friends welcome. Meets 2nd Thursday each month, 7 p.m., 1st floor conference room, New Hanover Rehabilitation Hospital, 2131 S. 17th St., Wilmington (behind Betty Cameron Women’s Hospital). Sponsored by Greater Carolinas Chapter, National MS Society.

Details: Anne, 910-232-2033 or Burt, 910383-1368. New Hanover Regional Medical Center, 2131 S. 17th St.

LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP

Meets third Saturday each month. Free; drop-ins are welcome. Group provides participants an opportunity to receive introductory info about lupus, encourage the expression of concerns, provide an opportunity to share experiences, encourage and support positive coping strategies, and emphasize the importance of medical treatment. Guest speakers, DVD presentations and open group discussion. info@lupusnc.org or at 877-849-8271, x1. lupusnc.org. Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

PFLAG

First Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.

tours CAM WEEKLY EXHIBITION TOURS

Cameron Art Museum allows participants to explore current exhibitions with Anne Brennan, CAM’s executive director, in a new series of public tours. Free for CAM members.

Wed., 1:30pm. 3201 S. 17th St.

LITERARY HISTORY WALKING TOUR

Explore the rich culture of our talented Southern town with a 90 minute walking tour of the literary history of downtown Wilmington, NC. Visit “The Two Libraries.” Walk the streets of your favorite novels, and stand where Oscar Wilde did when he lectured here. Saturdays, 1:30pm, Old Books on Front. 249 N. Front St. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1282390

BELLAMY MANSION

Guided tours start on the hour; self-guided tours start at any time. Mon. is only self-guided tours. Follow curved oyster-shell paths through our lush Victorian garden shaded by 150-yr.-old magnolia trees. See the elegant main entrance surrounded by soaring columns and gleaming windows. Hear stories of Bellamies, as well as those of the free and enslaved black artisans who built the home and crafted intricate details throughout the house. Adults $12; senior and military discount, $10; students, $6; children under 5, free. Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St.

MASONBORO SHELLING TOUR

Explore Masonboro Island and discover the wonder of the Carolina coast. This tour option is ideal for families, birders, and nature enthusiasts. Masonboro Island is an 8.4-mile marine sanctuary island, renowned for its plant and wildlife diversity. Topics will include shell biology, native plant species, shorebirds, and barrier island ecology. Adult $45 Child $25 RSVP: 910-2004002. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

CORK BOARD NEW

CANNABIS HYPNOTHERAPY NOW AVAILABLE! CALL: 910-343-1171 Find out what all the buzz is about!

Available for your next CD or Demo

KAREN KANE MUSIC PRODUCTIONS 33 year veteran producer/engineer

200 album credits

Dreaming of a career in the music industry?

AUDIO ENGINEERING CLASSES Music recording, mixing, pro tools, studio production

Classes offered in Jan., Apr. and Sept.

(910) 681-0220 or mixmama.com

SATISFY ALL YOUR CRAVINGS Huge menu with over 70 food items— including our famous $6.99 lunches & $8.99 dinners!

Front Street Brewery 910.251.1935 9 N. Front St., Downtown Wilmington FrontStreetBrewery.com

CUSTOM TILE

Installation & Repairs

•Kitchens •Bathrooms •Entryways •Fireplaces •And More Free Estimates

910-616-0470

senior caregiver needed!

Long-term, live-out caregiver needed for my mother-in-law, who has dementia!

4 hours/day, 4 days/week • $25/hour

dokuandrea@gmail.com

encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 47

BEST

FRIED CHICKEN BUFFET SOUL FOOD

WE ALSO DO CATERING! 5559 Oleander drive 910.798.2913

Wednesday-Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am- 8pm Closed - Monday and Tuesday Visit our website - www.CaseysBuffet.com 48 encore | august 29 - september 4, 2018 | www.encorepub.com