December 20, 2017 by Wilmington Media

VOL. 35 / PUB. 24 DECEMBER 20 - DECEMBER 26, 2017 FREE â&#x20AC;¢ encorepub.com

harmonic ease PORTRAIT BY TATYANA KULIDA MODEL: MIO REYNOLDS

Tatyana Kulida and Mio Reynolds showcase a study of peace in latest show at Art in Bloom

HODGEPODGE Vol. 35/Pub. 23

December 20-Decmeber 27, 2017

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event of the week

Friday, May 6 -23, 1110 a.m. Saturday, Dec. a.m. Last Minute Holiday Market

ON THE COVER

The Last Minute Holiday Market at Old Wilmington City Market (119 S. Water St., Unit B) is where to sprint to for those final (locally crated) gifts. Support Local and Shop Small. Featuring dozens of local vendors, such as Chelsea Metals, Infused Beauty Bar, Coastal Focus Art, Jems by the Sea, Linda Flynn Art, Things Handmade, Luna Cafe, and more, is where folks can wrap up their holiday shopping season and support local businesses. Fin more details and updates on Facebook.

HARMONIC EASE, PG. 14 ‘Over the Mountain’ by Mio Reynolds (above) is one of several pieces hanging alongside works by Tatyana Kulida in ‘Dreaming of Peace’ at Art in Bloom Gallery throughout the holidays and through January 13. Courtesy image.

MUSIC>> Durham’s Emily Musolino chats with encore’s Shannon Rae Gentry about her latest album to come, as well as life as producer, guitarist and singersongwriter before three shows in ILM. Courtesy photo.

Photo by Tom Dorgan.

Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com

Art Director: Susie Riddle // ads@encorepub.com Chief Contributors: Gwenyfar Rohler, Anghus, Tom Tomorrow, Chuck Shepherd, Mark Basquill, Rosa Bianca, Rob Brezsny, Linda Grattafiori

PG. 9

SALES>

Anghus had to use the Force to get through the latest installment of the “Star Wars” series, “The Last Jedi,” starring Daisy Ridley as a young Jedi seeking guidance from Mark Hamill’s Luke Skywalker. Photo by LucasFilm.

General Manager:

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Office Manager: Susie Riddle // ads@encorepub.com

Distribution Manager: Boykin Wright

Published weekly on Wednesday by HP Media. Opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of encore.

PG. 27

INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • News of the Weird, pg. 6 Music, pgs. 9-13 • Art, pgs. 14-15 • Film, pg. 19 • Dining, pgs. 20-27 Calendar, pgs. 30-46 • Corkboard, pgs. 47

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Editor-in-Chief:

Assistant Editor:

DINING>> Chimichangas, tasty guac, salsas, and sides of beans and rice abound at Zocalo Street Food and Tequila, one of several new eateries at The Pointe at Barclay serving moviegoers and Wilmington residents.

EDITORIAL>

Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com

<<FILM

PG. 19

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.

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TICKETS

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NEWS>>LIVE LOCAL

LIVE LOCAL, LIVE SMALL: When great neighbors save the day

BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

“N

GIVING NEIGHBORLY THANKS: Gwenyfar talks about gratitude for the best neighbors who helped her out last week with Jock’s sudden visit to the ER. Photo by Shea Carver

ow that we have neighbors we like, we should paint the house.” It has been a refrain in our household for the last two years. It is a bit inaccurate; on one side of us, we used to have a lovely little old lady that we liked very much, but her eyesight was so bad she probably couldn’t see across the open field to our house. In the last two years, the houses on each side of us have become the new homes of two of the most wonderful and unexpected households. In short, we won the neighbor jackpot. Now, I fully admit that some of the blame rests squarely with us: Jock is an inventor and the house we live in looks

like a mad scientist’s retreat in a bad Bmovie. It takes a lot of forbearance to live next door to us—especially last Saturday. Our new neighbors in the little old lady’s house were making dinner when their kitchen was filled with red flashing lights. The paramedics were parked in their lot between the two houses. The neighbors from the other side of us had a perfectly lovely Saturday afternoon derailed when I knocked on the door and asked if they could come help lift Jock: he had fallen and I couldn’t lift him. Without batting an eye they both came. She is a nurse and I was so, so grateful to have a medical professional walking in the door. Ten minutes earlier I was at work on a

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dreary Saturday afternoon and was waiting on customers at the bookstore when my phone rang. “I have fallen,” Jock said matter of factly. “I’m afraid I can’t get up.”

the mess is part and parcel of that work, and keep the dogs away from it, he had set up a system of locked doors.

He dropped me off at the bookstore that morning. I had no transport. I grabbed my purse, dropped my phone and ran toward the door while asking Elise to loan me her car. Without asking a single question, she threw me her keys and directed me to her parking space.

I slipped a Sawzall blade between the door and the frame popping the latch. Jock was draped half over a ladder and half on a 5-gallon bucket. “Sweetheart, what happened?” I asked and touched his forehead. I tried to get an arm under his arm.

“You are going to have to break down the door!” Jock called from the other side of the door, which was locked with a hook and eye. He has been repairing termite damage slowly in our home for the last several months and in an effort to control

“No, I don’t. A-ha!”

“I think we need to call 9-1-1.” “No, I’m fine,” he insisted. He just wanted me to get the neighbors to help get him to a standing position. Really, he was fine.

Yeah, right. The real-life Indiana Jones was laying a section of sub-floor to repair an area damaged by termites. He stepped backward onto a part of the floor and it gave way beneath him. Only one leg fell through the hole, up to the hip. He hauled himself out of the hole, grabbed the aforementioned 5-gallon bucket to put under his chest to support his weight and, using his arms, hauled himself 5 feet across the floor to the ladder to try to pull himself to a standing position. His body locked and seized at that point—and refused to do anything else. He finally decided to call for help. Thank all the gods for our neighbors. Our next-door neighbor nurse walked in and asked me to get a blanket. Within minutes, she and her husband got Jock to a lying down position while I talked with 9-1-1. He headed outside to flag-down the ambulance to bring them around the side of the house (we all agreed there was no way to get Jock moved on a stretcher through the maze of our house). He got the deck and ramp cleared of the assortment of tools, buckets of debris, and stacked-up lumber that is the detritus of any repair project. When I headed out in the truck to meet

Jock at the emergency room, they even took Elise her car.

are you going to do when you need two drills and an angle grinder?”

Later in the ER, two smiling faces popped around the curtain. He was dropping her off at work for the evening, and they came by to check on us. “Yeah, you’re probably going to be on my floor tonight,” she commented.

Hours later, when we finally got to a room, there was our nurse neighbor with a big smile to greet us and help move Jock into a bed. He had snapped the top off his femur, and made the ball and socket joint in his hip no longer operable. Moving him at all was a delicate process that produced enormous surges of pain. It took four people to get him settled. But the pain meds were taking effect, and when they tried to get him into traction, he attempted to organize a knot-tying workshop, pointing out such skills were not just valuable in nursing but also boating and movie lighting. Frankly, the knots they were using were not what he would recommend. “What ever happened to an old-fashioned square knot or a granny?” he queried.

When the nurse and tech walked in with shears to cut off Jock’s coveralls and additional layers of clothing, our neighbors departed with a couple of good jokes to ease the tension. The lovely young nurse had the task of emptying Jock’s pockets while they shredded his clothing. I don’t think she was quite prepared for the parade of items Jock considers essential to daily living: bolts, washers, screws, nails, nuts, coffee stir sticks (for mixing epoxy), Sharpies, pencils, random dollar bills, receipts, etc. Toward the end, she held up, between both hands, a cream-colored cube of plastic, with slots on three sides and metal prongs sticking out of one end. “What is it?” she asked in a quiet and bewildered voice. “Oh, that’s a cube tap; Jock is never without one,” I explained while I deposited it into my purse next to his cell phone. “You plug the prongs in the wall, and it makes one outlet into three outlets.” “For power tools,” Jock added. “What

The next morning, when I arrived at the hospital, a picture of our neighbor’s dog was on Jock’s tray. The two guys have coffee together every Sunday morning. Since Jock couldn’t walk across the yard, he brought coffee and a picture of cuddly dog to Jock. Later in the evening, our neighbor who was putting dinner in the oven when the ambulance arrived in her yard, brought dinner to the hospital to share with us. Jock was delirious from the assortment of

medication, but he was not in pain. While he attempted to explain to them about the six stand-up comedians at the ATM, who were closing the account in his hip, they nodded and went along with the story. They commented how happy they were to see Jock feeling so good. Amen. They asked repeatedly if we needed anything. “No, this is the easy part,” I gestured to the bed. “The hard part is in two weeks, when he’s home and feeling better, and wants to climb a ladder.” The thing is, we are not really great neighbors. We are the people HOAs are designed for to protect others. We are a mess; Jock and I are both so preoccupied with the assortment of projects that dominate our lives, neither of us are very good at doing home upkeep or advance planning that would be essential in a planned community. Somehow, in spite of it all, at the moment we needed them most, the most lovely people imaginable looked past all our foibles and saved the day. There is no way to properly thank our neighbors for putting up with us, but we promise, we will paint the house, as soon as Jock is recovered.

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BRIGHT IDEA

Cai, a 28-year-old man in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, China, had plenty of time to consider traffic patterns as he waited for the lights to change during his daily commute. So much, in fact, that he decided to take matters into his own hands on Sept. 27 and paint new traffic arrows on the roadway. A traffic camera captured the whole project as Cai carefully added a straight arrow to the existing left-turn and U-turn arrows. “I saw the straight lane was always packed with cars, while the turning left lane has a lot of space,” Cai told police. “So I thought changing the signs would make my commute smoother.” The BBC reports that police fined Cai the equivalent of about $151, and crews removed the new straight arrow from the road.

HAIR TRIGGER

Timothy Colton, 28, is cooling off in the

Clark County (Nevada) Detention Center after being charged with arson and the attempted murder of his 66-year-old mother, who has limited mobility. The Nov. 27 altercation apparently started over a laundry dispute, but North Las Vegas police said Colton became aggressive and threatened to kill his mother and burn the house down. Fox News reports that Colton set fire to the front door and then ran away to hide under a car in a nearby parking lot, where officers found him. Police said he was “kicking the back seat door and hitting his head on the plastic partition between the front and rear seats” in the patrol car during his arrest. He was being held on $100,000 bail.

WHEN YA GOTTA GO ...

Nemy Bautista of Sacramento, California, will not be posting a five-star review to Amazon this holiday season following not one but two alarming experiences. On Nov. 28, Bautista returned home to find a pile of what he

thought was dog poo at the end of his driveway. But after reviewing his security camera footage, he discovered the poop perp was in fact a contract delivery driver for Amazon, driving a U-Haul truck. Bautista watched as the female driver squatted by the side of the truck, partially concealed by the open door, and left her mark. Bautista called Amazon to complain, and a supervisor arrived hours later to bag up the evidence. The next day, Bautista got another package from Amazon, but the delivery person “tossed the package ... instead of walking up the driveway,” Bautista told FOX40. He said the package contained a “fragile porcelain figurine,” but it didn’t break. Maybe the delivery person was afraid of stepping in something?

the church of St. Agueda in Burgo de Osma, Spain, held a surprise in a most unusual spot. As historians removed from Jesus’s backside a section of the carving meant to look like a cloth, they discovered two handwritten letters dated 1777 and signed by Joaquin Minguez, then-chaplain of the cathedral. Minguez details life in the community, including harvest reports and diseases, and tells about the sculpture’s artist, Manuel Bal. Historian Efren Arroyo told the Spanish newspaper El Mundo it appears Minguez intended his letters to be a sort of time capsule. The original letters were sent to the Archbishop of Burgos for archiving, but copies were returned to Jesus’s hindquarters to honor Minguez’s intent.

ON THE NAUGHTY LIST

Chuck E. Cheese restaurants are undergoing an evolution of sorts, and employees at the location in Oak Lawn, Illinois, were only following company protocol when they took sledgehammers to the plastic head of the animatronic mouse on Nov. 28. In a video recorded by a reporter with the Oak Lawn Patch, two female employees half-heartedly strike Chuck’s head for several minutes before it finally breaks apart. Meanwhile, other workers load furniture and games into a moving van. The Oak Lawn location has closed after experiencing a particularly difficult period, as it became the scene of violent brawls and gang activity. But they won’t have Chuck E. to kick around anymore.

A man in Australia couldn’t wait for Santa to deliver his Christmas wish: a 5 1/2-foot-tall “Dorothy model” sex doll. So, according to the Victoria Police Kingston Crime Investigation Unit, he broke into an adult entertainment store in Moorabbin on Dec. 4 by cutting through a fence with bolt cutters and smashing his way through the door. After quickly loading Dorothy into the back of his van, he took off. Security cameras caught the event, but the thief was disguised with stockings and a balaclava pulled over his head. A mall Santa working the weekend shift in late November got more than he bargained for at Dufferin Mall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, when an unnamed woman unloaded a sleigh-full of obscenities on him, saying, “Do you have a sleigh? No? ... You’re not magic! You’re not even real! I heard about it when I was a young kid!” A bystander with a cellphone captured the tirade on video, reported the New York Post, and true to his spirit, St. Nick kept his composure and tried not to engage with the elf-hater. A mall spokesperson said the woman left without further incident.

THE PASSING PARADE

Faye Preston of Hull, Yorkshire, England, loves her neighborhood -- even the homeless folks who gently ask for change, or, in Preston’s case, make love in her driveway. She stepped out one night in November to smoke a cigarette and saw a couple under a blanket in her drive, and decided to let them be. But when she went out the next morning, “They were having actual sex on my driveway. The movement going on under the cover was unmistakable,” Preston wrote in the Hull Daily Mail. Still, she was worried about running over them, so she called police, who eventually removed them. “If I was homeless, I’d come here too,” Preston wrote. “Where else can you go for a posh meal, followed by cocktails in a swanky bar and finish the night stepping over some frisky homeless people fornicating on your driveway?”

A MESSAGE FROM GOD? 6 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

An 18th-century statue of the crucified Jesus that was removed for restoration from

AWESOME!

INEXPLICABLE

A suburban parking lot in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, has been the scene of repeated crashes, as drivers there can’t seem to avoid the Sage Hill Rock -- a large boulder surrounded by yellow cement curbs. At least three photos of cars that have collided with the rock -- two hung up on it and the third tipped over on its side -- were posted on social media over the weekend of Dec. 2, according to the CBC. “I don’t know how you miss this big rock,” said Brangwyn Jones, who lives in Sage Hill. An employee of a nearby business said the rock was placed in its spot to keep people from driving over the curb. The management company of the retail center had planned to remove it, but an uproar from community members (“It’s far too entertaining!”) may have stalled those plans.

UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT

The Jilin Daily newspaper in eastern China has provided a handy guide for residents about what to do in case of a nuclear attack from North Korea. Cartoons illustrate how to wash radioactive contaminants from shoes with water and use cotton swabs to clean out ears. “If war breaks out,” commented the state-backed Global Times, “it is not possible to rule out the Korean Peninsula producing nuclear contaminants, and countermeasures must be ... spoken openly about to let the common folk know. But at the same time, there is absolutely no reason to be alarmed.”

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ARTS>>MUSIC

SALTY SONGSTRESS:

Soulful singer-songwriter and guitarist Emily Musolino heads to ILM for three shows

planning the business/logistics side of a spring release. “Rebekah [Todd] might actually be on the bill with me for that show,” she divulges.

BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

t’s been almost four years since the Triangle’s Emily Musolino released her last album, “Jealous Girl” (2014), which features her full band, in addition to local artists like Eric Hirsh (The Beast), Will Darity (The Brand New Life), and more. Musolino’s soulful and fiery voice garnered the Durham native statewide attention from the likes of WUNC’s “The State of Things.”

While some songs have been performed at her live shows, many still have been kept under wraps. The livelier tunes, for example, get more play onstage than mellower tracks she’s explored on the record.

such a long way . . . and after three years of constantly being on the road, playing everyday—as opposed to before when I really didn’t go full time with music until 2015—all that practice and life experience has made the music come a long way.”

“As of now I’ve probably collected about $50,000 in stuff,” she quips. “It’s all kind of paid for itself. I’ve had clients come in, and they all seem very happy about the product.”

“So I was just like ‘screw it, I’m going to start doing this myself,’” she continues. “Once I started getting into it, I realized it was actually a really awesome creative outlet. It’s different from performing, in that I can do things over and over and over again to craft a certain thing. Whereas [with a performance,] that’s [all] it is.” As an engineer, Musolino operates as she wants a producer to work with her: by not getting in the way. She wants to make them feel comfortable in what they do best. “I really want to be guiding the artist into what they want,” she tells. “If it’s not comfortable, or if it’s more of a sterile environment, then they’re not going to get a good sound.” While powerful female vocalists, like Etta James and Amy Winehouse, have influenced her own cords, as a guitarist, Musolino constantly explores new soundscapes and riffs to incorporate into her music. She takes many ques from ‘70s rock and soul pioneers, such as and Stevie Ray Vaughan, Led Zeppelin and Stephenwolfe. Put plainly, she learned a long time ago that comfortable is boring. “There’s also a mind space you have to be in,” she observes. “It’s not about how many notes you can play, it’s about the melody that’s needed at a certain time. A lot of times,

DETAILS:

Emily Musolino and Tyrek Hearon

Thursday, Dec. 21, at 10 p.m. Jimmy’s at Red Dogs 5 N. Lumina Ave., Wrightsville “It is definitely my favorite work I’ve put Beach out so far,” she observes. “I’ve just come Cover: $3

Musolino owns her own recording studio, Blue Moose Studios in Durham, of which she started right after graduating from Berklee College of Music with her degree in music production. She had the knowledge, just not all the gear she needed upon returning to NC.

It all started when Musolino couldn’t find a producer who could keep up with what she wanted to accomplish as an artist. Now her studio is the lab to Musolino’s mad scientist.

songs that are happy songs, but some of them are somewhat salty.”

UPTEMPO PLAY: Emily Musolino prepares for three Wilmington shows, featuring tunes from her upcoming record ‘The Vault.’ Courtesy photo.

the best solo is really just the melody of the song. Weezer does that a lot: They take a guitar solo and play it as the chorus, and it’s great every time.” As well, her peers throughout the Triangle area and beyond continue to be of great influence. “In fact, there’s a crazy little hub in Fayetteville that no one really knows about,” she divulges. “My friend Tyrek [Hearon] plays in a band called ‘Lotus Sun,’ and he is one of the best damn guitar players I’ve ever seen.” Musolino has three different shows slated for her next trip down to Wilmington; it starts with a duo performance of Lotus Sun’s Tyrek Hearon at Jimmy’s at Red Dogs in Wrightsville Beach on Dec. 21. She also will play with Ethan Hanson at Hell’s Kitchen on Dec. 22, and then close out the run at The Calico Room on Dec. 23 with her full band. “They’re all going to be pretty different shows,” she observes. “Tyrek’s just gonna melt your face off with guitar, and Ethan is more of an incredible songwriter in his own right. The band show is going to be more from the new album—way more rock ‘n’ roll and hard-hitting stuff.” Musolino has finished music for her forthcoming album,“The Vault,” and is now

While she completed demos for “The Vault” at Blue Moose, Musolino admits she needed to get out of her own head to see it to fruition. She tapped Fidelitorium Recordings in Kernersville and Bunker Sound Productions in Chapel Hill because both understood what their roles as producers were. “I had a very clear, set vision of what I wanted,” she explains. “I wanted my sound to be rockin’ but really precise at the same time. That’s the thing musicians who play with me realize, you can’t just bullshit this; you have to really learn the song.” Like her previous album, Musolino invited several different musicians to perform on this record. Three different key players with various specialities, for example. Organist Joe MacPhail, pianists Gabe Reynolds and Mark Wells, each provided various textures and soundscapes to “The Vault.” “There’s a huge variety of different genres that are all encompassed in this record,” she continues. “Everything from almost like arena rock to punk to slow acoustic-folk to pop, but somehow it all works. I don’t know how but it always seems to!” Musolino plays more of uptempo songs at her live shows, such as “Shatter the Ceiling,” a relevant in-your-face punk-rock “feminist anthem.” She likes to start shows with highenergy tunes like “Burn” that hits hard right off the bat. Partnered with sounds almost akin to ‘80s hair metal, “Eye of the Storm” narrates the tale of someone who always seems to be at the center of life’s drama and chaos—whether created by them or not. “It seems like most of my songs come from relationships or a relationship gone wrong,” she says with a laugh. “There’s a couple of

Emily Musolino and Ethan Hanson Friday, Dec. 22, at 9:30 p.m. Hell’s Kitchen • 118 Princess St. Free

The Emily Musolino Band

Saturday, Dec. 23, at 10 p.m. The Calico Room • 107 S. Front St. Cover TBD

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ARTS>>MUSIC

FRIENDS OF FEEBS:

The young guns of Feebs build a fanbase while writing original works for future release BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

“A

live show with [the Feebs] is more than listening to some band at a bar,” says David Walker (sax, keys, guitar). “We feed off the energy of the crowd and each other. The crowd enjoying themselves and having a good time is the most important part of our show.” Joined by Chandler Ritter on drums and vocals, Wyatt Thomas on bass and vocals, guitarists Jeff Gover and Tyler Stadler, and singer Haley Norris, Feebs is a relatively young pack on Wilmington’s music scene. Just three years ago, Walker, Norris, Stadler, and Ritter were already playing together in another band. “We had some fun and wrote some good songs, but over the course of two years, the dynamic between some of band members became very dysfunctional and ultimately toxic for the group,” Ritter remembers. “Myself, David, Tyler, and Haley decided to leave that band to go in a different direction.”

It led to a trio of Walker, Haley and Chandler, who could often be seen playing at downtown’s Tarantelli’s Italian restaurant on 2nd and Orange streets. They picked up Thomas and Gover after a chance open-mic set in Leland. “We felt like we were upon something great,” Walker adds. “Before long, we were offered a gig to play at Good Hops Brewery in Carolina Beach,” Ritter continues. “After that, shows started lining up for us. Over the past six months, we have been able to really develop a great sound, as well as add a variety of genres to our set-list so everyone gets to hear some of their favorite songs.” From Wilmington to Myrtle Beach, it’s all about bringing killer grooves, rhythms and leads to the stage. However, variety, spontaneity, passion, and energy also have quickly cultivated a large Feebs following. “Our bass player [Wyatt Thomas] is a maniac,” Gover quips. “Ever since he got his wireless rig, if you’re out at the right time of night,

FUNKY FAVORITES: Feebs is fine-tuning their sound with favorite covers from all genres as they write originals for their first album. Courtesy photo.

you can see him playing right on Front Street while we’re all still onstage. It makes me want to get one. It looks like he just has boundless energy, and I think we all—the crowd included—really feed off that. I know I do.” Their sound thus far lands firmly on blues, jazz and funk when they write or cover songs with a Feebs’ spin. In fact, while they’re working on their first batch of originals, The Feebs’ set lists are filled with funk medleys, including “Superstition,” “Billie Jean,” “Play That Funky Music,” and “We Want The Funk.” They also are starting to explore hip-hop and dance, and are adding more modern hits, such as “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” by Panic! At The Disco, “Thriller” by Michael Jackson, “Umbrella” by Rihanna. “Recently, we have added some ‘90s hits we all loved growing up [hearing],” Ritter continues, “as well as current music, such as [artist] Childish Gambino and [Mark Ronson’s] ‘Uptown Funk.’ . . . Another crowd favorite is ‘Black Magic Woman’ and ‘Come Together.’” Ritter says he and his bandmates all have original songs in the works. They write individually and are nearly finished with their first couple of tunes. They hope to get an EP out in the spring. “As soon as we can find the time to get some writing sessions going, we’d like to get into the studio with the help of some good friends who believe in us,” Gover says. “For the sake of keeping it a surprise for our friends [and] fans that come to see us, I don’t want to be too specific—but most recently we are really trying to capture the childhood nostalgia

10 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

of people in the 20-, 30- and 35- year-old category.” “Since we don’t have any finished original music, there are a few cover songs we are preparing that we are excited about,” Walker offers. “We have a considerable amount of classic music in our repertoire, so the new covers will be more focused on a younger crowd.” While front-woman Haley Norris has the vocal chops to master and take lead on any tune, Ritter and Gover possess the range to complement. Grover insists she could be the next “American Idol” winner. “I think there are definite key traits that people possess individually that really come together well,” he tells. “It’s a ton of fun to watch and be apart of it.” If Norris’s vocal talent is the meat of their work, then Walker’s saxophone is their “special sauce.” Ritter says he makes everything sound masterful, especially when paired with the keys. However, Walker thinks his biggest strength—at least when it comes to collaborating with his bandmates—is his academic background studying music. “I am currently a senior in the music education program at UNCW,” he tells, “and I believe it helps me contribute greatly when rehearsing. When we collaborate, whether preparing a cover or writing, we all have an ear for music; everyone tends to be on the same page with musical suggestions being thoroughly discussed and never dismissed.”

DETAILS: Feebs

Friday, Dec. 29, at 9 p.m. Bourbon Street 35 N. Front St. Free

A PREVIEW OF EVENTS ACROSS TOWN THIS WEEK

THE SOUNDBOARD

DARDEN DUO: The Staghorn Starling duo, made up of Molly and Ozzie Darden, are set to play a free show at Flytrap Brewing on Saturday, Dec. 23, served with beers on tap and weekly food truck. Courtesy photo.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20 Port City Trivia w/Dutch (6:30pm; Free)

—Magnolia Greens, 1800 Tommy Jacobs Dr.

Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

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

Trivia Night: Party Gras Entertainment (7pm; Free) —Hoplite Pub, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.

Laura McLean Songwriter Showcase (7pm; $3) —Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379

Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)

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

Trivia w/Sherri ‘So Very’ (7pm; Free)

—Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, 11 Van Campen Blvd.

—Bottega Art & Wine, 723 N. Fourth St.

Tyler McKaig (6pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21

Firedrums Fire Dancers (7:30pm; Free)

Sai Collins Live (6pm; Free)

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

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

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

Acoustic Blues Jam (7pm; $3)

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

Artistry in jazz Big Band Holiday (7pm; Free) —Independence Mall, 3500 Oleander Dr.

Trivia Night: Party Gras Entertainment (7:30pm; Free)

DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; Free; Electric Dance Party)

—Fox and Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.; 910-509-0805

Singer-Songwriter Circle (9pm; Free)

—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.

HOW TO SUBMIT A LISTING:

DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; $3)

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223

Folkstone String Band (7pm; Free, Folk) —Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22 Port City Trio (7pm; $3; Jazz)

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

4th Friday Jazz Sean Meade Trio (7pm; Free)

—Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane

Paleo Sun (8pm; Free; Rock, Reggae) —Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

Piano Jazz with James Jarvis (8pm; Free)

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

Paleo Sun (8pm; Free; Rock, Reggae)

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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. encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 11

THURSDAY

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

$3.50 Red Oak Draft $4 Wells 65 Wings, 4-7pm

$3.50 Sweet Josie $4 Margaritas $3.50 Pint of the Day $4 Fire Ball

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

www.RuckerJohns.com VISIT WWW.RUCKERJOHNS.COM FOR Friday Monday DAILY SPECIALS, MUSIC & EVENTS Select Appetizers halfMONDAY off $ 4 Cosmopolitan $ 2 Big Domestic Draft Beers $550 Caramel Apple Martini ALL DAY $ 95 22oz. Domestic Draft $ 4 RJ’s Coffee 3 Sam Adams and Blue $5 Pizzas Moon Seasonal Bottles Tuesday TUESDAY 1/2 off Select Bottles of Wine saTurday LIVE(sugar JAzz IN THE BAR $ 5 Absolut Dream rim) $ 6 All Southern Half Price Bottles of Wine Shiners $ 3 NC Brewed Bottles $ $ 50 3-22oz Blue$2Moon Draft • Pacifico Absolut Dream (Shotgun, Buckshot, High $ 550 2 Select Domestic Bottles Roller and Hoppyum)

WEDNESDAY sunday Wednesday Miller Light Pints $150$ Coronoa/ 5 All$2Flat 50 Breads 1/2 off Nachos Corona Lite Bottles $ 50 $4 Bloody$ Marys 1 Domestic Pints Margaritas/Peach Margaritas 4 Pints $ 50 $ 50 1 Domestic 2 Corona/Corona Lt. $ 5 White Russians $ 50 4 Margaritas on theTHURSDAY Rocks Visit our $website Appletinis $4, RJ’s Painkiller 5 Thursday www.RuckerJohns.com $ 50 2 Red Stripe Bottles $ 50 for daily specials, music and 2 Fat Tire Bottles $ 50 2 Fat Tire Bottlesupcoming events $ 00 3 22oz. Goose Island IPA $ 95 4 Irish Coffee FRIDAY5564 Carolina $ 50 Cosmos $4, 007 Beach 3 Road 1/2 off ALL Premium $ Red Wine Glasses 3 Guinness Cans (910)-452-1212 Island Sunsets $5 SATURDAY Baybreeze/Seabreeze $4 22oz. Blue Moon Draft $3 1423 S. 3rd St. Select Domestic Bottles $2 DOWNTOWN SUNDAY WILMINGTON Bloody Marys $4, Domestic (910) 763-1607 Pints $150 $ Hurricanes 5 _____________________________________

Wednesday

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

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FRIDAY

MONDAY

$2.75 Michelob Ultra $3.25 Stella $4.50 Lunazul Tequila All Floors open

TUESDAY

SATURDAY

$2 Select Domestic • $3 Draft $4 Flavored Bombs 1/2 Price Apps Live Music from Tony and Adam $3 Fat Tire & Voo Doo $5 Jameson • $2 Tacos Pub Trivia on Tuesday Live music from Rebekah Todd

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY

SUNDAY

SOLO SOUL: Check out singer-songwriter Jared Michael Cline at Wrightsville Beach Brewery on December, 23. Courtesy photo.

DON’T MISS! 12/27 – Rock & Soul Holiday 12/28 – Rumours 12/29 – JJ Grey & Mofro 12/30 – Thunderstruck 12/31 – Corey Smith 1/13 – Departure 1/19 – Chippendales 1/20 – Jonny Lang 1/27 – Black Label Society 2/17 – Fetty Wap 3/3 – A$AP Ferg 3/15-17 – The Avett Brothers For more concerts and events, go online at HOB.COM/MYRTLEBEACH 4640 HWY 17 S. Barefoot Landing 843.272.3000

! s l a de

12 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

.com

LIVE MUSIC

$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

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

A Grateful Phishmas Ugly Sweater Xmas Party (9pm; Cover TBD) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

St. Clones, The Girls and Nonchalant Shotgun (9pm; $7; Punk. Rock ‘n’ Roll)

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26 Comedy Bingo (7pm; Free)

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

Trivia with Sherri ‘So Very’ (7pm; Free) —Blackfinn Wilmington, 18 Harnett St.

—Reggies 42nd St. Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.; 910-799-6465

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27

Emily Musolino (9:30pm; Free; Jazz, Rock, Soul)

—Magnolia Greens Golf Course, 1800 Tommy Jacobs Dr.

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

DJ Dr. Jones (10pm; $3)

—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23

Port City Trivia w/Dutch (6:30pm; Free) Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

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

Trivia Night: Party Gras Entertainment (7pm; Free) —Hoplite Pub and Beer Garden, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.

Jared Michael Cline Live (3pm; Free)

Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)

Coastal Blend (7pm; $3; Acoustic)

Trivia w/Sherri ‘So Very’ (7pm; Free)

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr. —Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379

Shake and Shag Beach Music (7:30pm; Cover TBD) —Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.

—The Blind Elephant, 21 N. Front St. Unit F —Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, 11 Van Campen Blvd.

DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; Free; Electric Dance Party) —Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.

Singer-Songwriter Circle (9pm; Free)

—Bottega Art & Wine, 723 N. Fourth St.

Staghorn Starlings (8pm; Free; Country, Folk)

Christmas Market and Live Music (1pm; Free)

Volume (9:30pm; Free; Rock)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

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

DJ Sir Nick Bland (10pm; $3)

—Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane

Max Levy & The Hawaiian Shirts (6pm; Free; Rock ‘n’ Roll)

—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24

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

Books, Beer & Jazz Piano (3pm; Free)

—Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.; 910-76-BOOKS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25 College Night (10pm; Free)

—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

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

Firedrums Fire Dancers (7:30pm; Free)

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223

Trivia Night: Party Gras Entertainment (7:30pm; Free) —Fox and Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; $3)

—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.

CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTHEASTERN NC

SHOWSTOPPERS

SOMETHING BIG: Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh has three nights of Big Something leading up to 2018! See them December 29-31. Photo by Tom Dorgan, taken at GLA. HOUSE OF BLUES MYRTLE BEACH 4640 HWY 17 S, NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC (843) 272-3000 12/28: Rumours 12/29: JJ Grey & Mofro NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE NORTH DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 12/22: Vices and Vessels, Persistent Shadow, more 12/28: Perpetual Groove and Urban Soil 12/29: Perpetual Groove and CBDB 12/31: The Bands, Radio Lola, The Menders and more 1/6: Melodime, The Brevet and Millenial 1/17: Suzanne Slair and Danielle Howle THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 12/22: Drop !t featuring Snails 12/30: Drop !t featuring Hippie Sabotage 12/31: JJ Grey & Mofro 1/13: Badfish THE UNDERGROUND-FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 1/27: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE., DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875 12/22: The Beast, Zensofly and more 12/23: The Wusses 12/31: NYE Party with JFK Sr. 1/5: Lillie Mae

DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 123 VIVIAN ST. DURHAM, NC (919) 688-3722 1/2: On Your Feet! 1/20: Eddie B. 1/21: Gobsmacked! LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111 12/22: Liquid Pleasure 12/23: Smell the Glove 12/29: Big Something with Travers Brothership and more 12/30: Big Something with Urban Soil 12/31: Big Something with Dr. Bacon 1/5: Big River Band with Justin West Band and more CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 12/26: The Merch Holiday Dance Party (Back) 12/31: J Gunn, Young Bull, and Zoocrü (Back) 1/4: Melodime, The Brevet & The Roman Spring (Back) 1/5: Of Good Nature and Porch 40 (Back) 1/6: Millie Mcguire and Django Haskins (Back) THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 12/22: Dave Desmelik, Chappell and more 12/23: Wham Bam Bowie Band! 12/31: Langhorne Slim and more 1/6: Abbey Road LIVE! 1/9: Henry Rollins Travel Slideshow 1/10: ZOSO 1/11: Badfish

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 13

ARTS>>ART

HARMONIC EASE:

Tatyana Kulida and Mio Reynolds showcase a study of peace in latest show at Art in Bloom BY: SHEA CARVER

“B

eauty, like love, is a limitless resource and is available to anyone,” according to portraiture artist Tatyana Kulida. “Hostile thoughts and actions are ugly and they do not sprout in harmonious soil. They are a result of imbalance and fear.” Peace and harmony are the focus of Kulida’s latest show, “Dreaming of Peace,” at Art in Bloom Gallery in downtown Wilmington. Alongside realistic faces of friends and family are still-life floral arrangements, some of which pop off the canvas with perfectly etched lines of color representing light. In fact, it’s the true craftsmanship in Kulida’s work overall: She understands light and shadow to near perfection, which make her paintings look as real as photographs. “Harmony is something I search for when selecting colors and creating a composi-

tion,” Kulida tells. “With my portraits, I seek for a harmonious expression and pose. The portrait ‘Reading’ carries a certain inquiry in the sitter, yet she is in harmony within her pose and herself.”

woman whose stillness of facial expression indicates she’s looking inward and assessing the meaningfulness of her life. Reynolds and Kulida believe such wholeness comes from good will, even if the process of getting there isn’t always uplifting.

Included in the show are Kulida’s and her daughter’s self-portraits, both of which are newer works. The full-time artist—who has been painting for two decades now—puts in anywhere from 15 to 30 hours of work in each painting. “I still heavily edit my work and not every painting I produce ends up framed and on a wall,” she notes. “I prepare my materials and many of my frames by hand. Gilding layers and preparation can take up to 10 hours alone.” Her subject matter remains a passion: people. She often has models in her studio, including friends. And she is well-

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“I use painting as a way to channel emotions, some of which are very violent and have to be released,” Reynolds details. “Sometimes profound sadness can be triggered by poems; in order to release deep sorrow one has to express it. I paint a painting, and once the feeling is expressed, I feel peaceful.” Reynolds finds inspiration from nature, music, a past experience, or even the written word. Two poems, “Over the Mountain” by Carl Busse and “Peace Prayer of Saint Francis,” hang in tandem with Reynolds’ known for her commission work. works. The hopeful line, “Make me an inFloral still-lifes are new to Kulida, who strument of peace...”, opens the prayer, began doing them as an exercise in comwhich both Kulida and Reynolds are hoping position and color, and as a respite beto represent through art and action. Thus, tween portraits. Some of the florals are in partial proceeds from “Dreaming of Peace” arrangements, others singular. will benefit DREAMS Center of Arts Edu“There are a few pieces featuring tra- cation in Wilmington; the 2018 encore Best ditional water gilding technique I have Of beneficiary, which keeps arts alive for recently learnt from a restorer in Italy,” at-risk youth. Kulida was a board member Kulida notes. She calls Italy her creative of DREAMS when she lived in Wilmington home, Wilmington her American home and when the nonprofit was fundraising for (where she has had shows at ACES Gal- its current home at 901 Fanning St. lery, Caprice Bistro, Patterson Gallery and “Back then I lived on Ann Street, a block Frames, and Cameron Art Museum), Rusor so away from the original DREAMS sia her birth home, and New Zealand her home,” she tells. “I felt passionate about current home. the work they were doing in the commu“New Zealand is a place for discovery nity and served as a board secretary for a and experimentation,” Kulida tells, “But I year. I passionately believe investing into lived in NC for over a decade; I received children and their education is much more my B.A. and M.A. here. In NC I have many profitable in terms of social returns, as well dear and long-term friends whose faces as financial, than having to heal and submean comfort and love.” sidize in some way adult lives that are broOf such is local Japanese artist Mio ken or unfulfilled.”

SELF-PORTRAIT: Tatyana Kulida and her selfportrait hang currently at Art in Bloom Gallery. Photo by Chad Keith

Reynolds (cover model), who is sharing space in the exhibition with Kulida. Reynolds also has included portraits to represent ideals of rapprochement. Two were painted during CAM’s night classes at the Museum School, directed by Donna Moore.

1211 S. Lake Park Blvd • 910-458-2000 www.oceangrilltiki.com 14 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

“‘Reflecting’ and ‘Christina’ started there and I worked on them further at home, adding colors and backgrounds,” Reynolds says. “Reflecting” features a young

DETAILS:

Dreaming of Peace

Art work of Tatyana Kulida and Mio Reynolds Art in Bloom Gallery 910 Princess St. Hangs through Jan. 13 aibgallery.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 The public is invited to a one man show “Escape into Plein Air” featuring 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 “Dreaming of Peace: Oil Paintings by Tatyana Kulida and Mio Reynolds” continues until January 13th, 2018. Born in Russia, Tatyana is a classically-trained painter who studied and taught art in Italy and now resides in New Zealand. Fellow artist and friend, Mio Reynolds lives in Wilmington, NC. Join us for a reception on Wednesday, December 27th, 4-6 pm for artist, Mae Klinger visiting from Massachusetts. Mae’s original art includes Cyanotype-style sun printing, an alternative photography process that uses UV light to develop paper treated with a chemical solution. Also, discover Mae’s images of wings created with pen, colored ink, gouache and gold leaf on fine art paper. The gallery is open December 22nd, Fourth Friday Gallery Night until 9 pm.

ART OF FINE DINING

www.aibgallery.com In addition to our gallery at 210 Princess Street, Art in Bloom Gallery partners with other organizations to exhibit original art in other locations. The following exhibits continue through December. “Contemporary Art by Stephanie Mobbs Deady” with mixed media at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street. “Southern Embrace: New Art by Debra Bucci” with oil paintings at The District Kitchen and Cocktails,1001 N. 4th Street.

“Empty Faces and Abstract Spaces by Joan McLoughlin” with paintings at Pinpoint Restaurant,114 Market Street.

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. Cureent 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.

EXPO 216

216 N. Front St, Wilmington, NC (910) 769-3899 Wed. – Sun., Noon – 6 PM www.expo216.com Over 5,000 square feet in historic downtown of thought-provoking art and fashions! Expo 216’s one-year expositions are theme-driven: currently addressing Death & Dying . Works by local artists, Joan McLoughlin, Niki Hildebrand, Chad Starling, and many more will intrigue you. Fashions such as Flatliner and The Cyclist’s Widow will stun you. Exhibits, such as The History of Funeral Care and Mourning Practices, provide an educational element. Expo 216 is a supporter of the Wilmington music scene and provides live music during the Fourth Friday Gallery Night. Expo 216 is a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY

271 N. Front St. (919) 343-8997 Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) www.newelementsgallery.com “Time & Place” features ceramic work from YiFenn Strickland and mixed media paintings by Shelia Keefe Ortiz. Both of these Wilmington artists masterfully create striking work from soft, organic forms. New Elements has been offering the best of regional and national fine art and craft

since 1985. We invite you to learn more about the artists we represent, featured exhibitions, and gallery news. We regularly update the work available online, so return often to view our many different selections if you can’t drop into the gallery.

PEACOCK FINE ART

224 S. Water St. #1A • (910) 254-4536 Monday through Sunday, noon - 6 p.m. www.peacocksfineart.com. Adjacent to the River to Sea gallery, Features paintings by Wilmington based plein air painter Jim Bettendorf. Local scenes of Wilmington and surrounding areas cover the walls. Original oil paintings and a selection of giclée prints available for purchase. Open daily from noon to six.

known artists.

WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY

200 Hanover St. (bottom level, parking deck) Mon.-Fri., noon-5pm http://cfcc.edu/danielsgallery The Wilma Daniels Gallery will be hosting works from the No Boundaries International Art Colony, commemorating it’s 20th anniversary. Alumni artists include Sergej Adreevski, Fritzi Huber, Eric Lawing, Luc Marelli, Innocent Nkurunziza, Gonul Nughoglu, Gerlinde Pistner, Dick Robers, Arrow Ross, Lone Seeberg, Pamela Toll, Gayle Tustin, and Barbara Anne Thomas. Closing reception, Dec. 22, 6-9pm.

RIVER TO SEA GALLERY

225 S. Water St., Chandler’s Wharf (free parking) (910) 763-3380 Tues.- Sat. 11am - 5pm; Sun. 1- 4pm River to Sea Gallery showcases the work of husband and wife Tim and Rebecca Duffy Bush. In addition, the gallery represents several local artists. Current show will enthrall visitors with its eclectic collection of original paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, pottery and jewelry. “Morning Has Broken” features works by Janet Parker. Come see Janet’s bold use of color and texture to reveal local marsh creeks and structures.

SUNSET RIVER MARKETPLACE

10283 Beach Dr., SW (NC 179) (910) 575-5999 Mon.- Sat. 10am - 5pm www.sunsetrivermarketplace.com Sunset River Marketplace showcases work by approximately 150 North and South Carolina artists, and houses some 10,000 square feet of oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, mixed media, art glass, fabric art, pottery, sculpture, turned and carved wood and artisan-created jewelry. There are two onsite kilns and four wheels used by students in the ongoing pottery classes offered by the gallery. A custom framing department is available. There are realistic and abstract art classes as well as workshops by nationally and regionally

210 Princess Street

Presents “Contemporary Art by Stephanie Mobbs Deady”

with mixed media at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street.

“Southern Embrace: New Art by Debra Bucci” with oil paintings at The District Kitchen and Cocktails, 1001 N. 4th St.

“Empty Faces and Abstract Spaces by Joan McLoughlin”

with paintings at Pinpoint Restaurant, 114 Market St.

www.aibgallery.com

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 15

16 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

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as you are? It’s time to say goodbye to the home office and noisy coffee shop and hello to a smarter way to work.

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 17

18 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

O“I

REELTO TOREEL REEL REEL

ARTS>>FILM ARTS>>FILM

GOOD INTENTIONS, RIGHTEOUS CAUSE:BAD RESULTS:

Denzel Washington ‘Roman Esq.’ worth watching ‘The Last Jedi’ maymakes be popular, butJ.itIsrael, still stinks

BY:BY: ANGHUS ANGHUS

ne of theBeen things thatThe resonated so t’s All Done.” song by Canamuch Gerwig’s “LadyLada’sabout eighthGreta best band, Barenaked Bird” waswas how great movies dies, bouncing around about my head ople Films which audias I are. watched the through latest installment of “Star ces get Atogalaxy, knowfar, a character and are as Wars.” far away isn’t nearly re interested in the conflicts exciting as it used to internal be—not since Disney day-to-day life thanand merely bought the franchise turned injecting it into an anmovie with melodrama for dramatic nual blockbuster, money-printing machine. ect. was great because The“Lady seriesBird” has been floundering sinceit the slackluster a very earnest lookAwakens” at the lives of in “The Force opened me interesting boy 2015, followed characters. by the even Which more formulaic e “Rogue ended One.” up with or who she took “The Last Jedi” is thethethird m the point. There wasn’t a andwasn’t most salient example of how it’s all been ditional climax or has escalating buildin todone, and Disney little interest doing rds a forced conclusion. It just sort anything differently. meandered through the lives of some Trust me when I say, “This sucks.” It’s fine ll-developed characters. “Roman J. to dislike insanely popular movies, but when ael, Esq.” is a movie with similar storywriting columns and reviews for publications, ing goals but doesn’t quite achieve the being a downer leads to charges of elitism me level of success. and other assorted dickery. I went in hoping Our character, Roman J. improveIsrael “Startitle Wars” was going to be an enzel Washington), a principled ment—a movie bothisentertaining andman coman unprincipled profession. Asthe a galaxy depelling that continues to expand se attorney, has spent mostyears of his George Lucashecreated so many ago. eer castatoff from “Theworking Last Jedi”onis cases entertaining times, and er profile firms. Israel’s partner forhigher a few moments manages to be compelthe lost causes. ling,patron but thesaint idea ofof legal world-building is long man a way, lawyer thetotraditional dead.isn’t By the I’m in about spoil the shit nse. Hethis does thesoresearch out of movie, if readersand who uses haven’t savant-like abilities together seen it yet may want to to put flip over to thedefood ses foron his partner review page 27. to take into court d litigate. Unfortunately his partner has The movie starts the brave Resistance massive heart-attack, leaving Roman fighters, led by Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), hout a job or anything to show for deonce again fleeing the evil empire-lite, First des of hard work. Order, led by the villainous Supreme Leader AsSnoke Roman faces thisItexistential (Andy Serkis). seems like crisis, Leia’s lot isin approached by aside former protege of life is to pick the with the least likely partner,toGeorge who chance win and(Colin blatherFarrell), on incessantly s about beenhope. tasked shutting down thestill Poewith Dameron (Oscar Isaac) mnants of Roman’s andintidily is shooting first, and practice uninterested asking apping up the institution he had helped questions about the countless corpses left in ld. an ofact Mercy, George hires theAs wake his of terrible leadership style. After man ontheir at his high-price getting asses handed tosuper-bourthem, it seems ois film. This creates a quashed number once of thelaw Resistance is about to be tional scenarios Roman, whose and for all, unlessforthey can talk Luke inSkyigence awkwardness walker and (Marksocial Hamill) into ending hisquickself-immakes him a liability. In a matter of posed exile. ys, he makes a series of poor decisions Things haven’t gone well for Luke over the t alienate him from his coworkers and years. His new school for enterprising young ds to tragic consequences for a cliJedi was a bust—it was about as beneficial . At his core, Roman believes himself to the young members as Catholicism was to be a righteous man who fights for the young altar boys. After having his spirit broken enfranchised. His moral righteousness by his dark-side, emo-goth-nephew Kylo Ren constantly exposed as he tries to navi(Adam Driver), he decided to live out his days e through the modern legal system. in exile. Unfortunately, his hermit lifestyle is inRoman’s continues to bring terrupted crisis by young Jedi-wannabe Rey him (Daisy hing butWill misery, he exterior deRidley). he scrubuntil awayfinally his crusty

REPRISE ROLE: Mark Hamill returns as Luke Skywalker in ‘The Last Jedi.’ Photo by LucasFilm

COURSE CORRECTS: Denzel and find the will to love the ForceWashington again? (above) plays the title character in ‘Roman J. “The Jedi” is a Wilson, muddled, messy meIsrael, Esq.’Last Photo by Glen Sony Pictures lange of good intentions and terrible execution: two-and-a-half hours of very good-lookcides to cash in and kind of ing vistas and about 45become minutes ofthe excitement. person that starts looking out for himself. There’s another 45 minutes of interesting Heideas parlays somehour privileged and a solid of bloated information padding that into a large cash reward and pulls and himself make me question if its filmmakers Disout of his rut and into a shopping spree. ney have any real idea what they’re doing. It’s Hestrange knuckles down andfilm tries become a for the second in atonew trilogy to team player. His attempts smooth out feel so disconnected from theto first. “The Force some of his ended rougher edges areRey admirable. Awakens” with young bringing For the first time, Roman is making Luke Skywalker his lightsaber back. Thehimnext self a priority instead of hishe principles. But moment in “The Last Jedi,” chucks it over how long can it last? his shoulder and shows a lack of interest in revisiting that part of his life. It alsohas acts creas a Dan Gilroy (“Nightcrawler”) metaphor for conflicted, writer/directorinteresting Rian Johnson beated a very charing uninterested the baton passed acter in “Roman in J. carrying Israel, Esq.” However, over to himdoesn’t by “Thedo Force director the movie thisAwakens” character any JJ Abrams. favors. He’s dragged through a gauntlet of terrible events the firstin half the So many ideas for introduced “TheofForce film. It seems fairly obvious, Roman’s life Awakens” are completely abandoned in “The needs recalibrating; after are he Rey’s jettisons Last Jedi.” Mysteries, but like “Who para ents?”, healthyare portion of self-righteousness in answered in a flat, matter-of-fact favor of a little selfishness it feels like only way without weight, while others, like “Who a is matter of time before he reverses that Supreme Leader Snoke?”, are completely decision. There was part of me that was abandoned. He’s just a really bad guy with happy Roman whenWant he decided start reallyfor strong powers. to knowtomore? doing things That’s a Shovesome it up your ugly for ass himself. because Rian Johntestament to how well Denzel Washington son and Disney aren’t going to tell you. The didDisney-made creating this“Star character. Romanare is more Wars” movies about than a collection of neurosis emcreating cool moments—and there and are plenty battled personality traits. He’s a guy who of cool fights and space battles in “The Last believes in its a righteous wearing it Jedi.” But characters cause, are treated like terlike andialogue-spewing albatross around his neck. But it rible exposition pieces, with also makes given him difficult and 75 percent nothing to do.judgemental. I liked seeing a guy who has given everyis the only character with thingAdam to a Driver causestill become disenfranchised. of depth or complexity. beIt any feel sense extremely relevant in this He’s current comingclimate. angrier, more powerful and committed cultural

to embracing the dark side. All other characters are just paint-by-number bores who use words like “hope” and “destiny” as if they’ve Eventually Roman has truth his is, moment earned our good will. The Disneyof epiphany andmost course corrects. has taken the popular franchiseRoman’s in film journeyand is pressed a little ittoo and it history intopredictable a familiar formula hurtsfeels the less overall story. Washthat novel withStill, eachDenzel subsequent ington makes thispeople moviewill worth installment. Some like watching. the film The guy is just that damn good. I liked simply because it brings back Luke SkywalkRoman J. Israel, Esq. the character a lot er, alongside the familiar elements audiencmore I liked to: “Roman J. battles, Israel, big Esq” es are than accustomed lightsaber the movie. action scenes. But let me be clear: It is garbage. Just because we’ve eaten trash for so long we’ve learned to like the taste doesn’t change the fact we’re eating rubbish.

DETAILS: Roman J. Israel, Esq. DETAILS:

Star Wars: The Last Jedi Rated PG-13 Directed by Dan Gilroy Rated PG-13 Starring Denzel Washington, Colin Directed by Rian Johnson Farrell, Carmen Ejogo Starring Daisy Ridley, John Boyega,

filmsthis thisweek week films CINEMATIQUE CINEMATIQUE

ThalianHall Hall• 310 • 310 Chestnut Thalian Chestnut St.St. p.m.• •$8$7 7 7p.m.

Dec. 13(additional (additional4 4 p.m. screen Jan. 8-10 p.m. screeningon onJan. Dec.10): 13):“Jane” “The Florida ing draws Project from tells100 the hours story, ofsetnever-before-seen over one summer over about athat precocious Moonee footage has been6-year-old tucked away in as National she courts mischief archives and adventure the Geographic for with50her ragtag playmates and bonds over years. Award-winning director withMorgen her rebellious mother Brett tells the but storycaring of Jane, a all while living in the shadows of Disney woman whose chimpanzee research World. Starring Brooklynn Prince, challenged the male-dominated scien-Bria Vinaite, Willem 111 min.) tific consensus of Dafoe. her time(R, and revolutionized our understanding of the natural world. Set to a rich orchestral score from legendary composer Philip Glass, the film offers an unprecedented, intimate portrait of Jane Goodall—a trailblazer who defied the odds to become one of the world’s most admired conservationists.. (Not rated, 90 min.)

Jan. 15-18 (additional 4 p.m. screenJan. 8-10 (additional 4 p.m. screen ing on Jan. 18): Greta Gerwig reveals ing onto Jan. draws from herself be a10): bold“Jane” new cinematic over in100 hours“Lady of never-before-seen voice directing Bird,” excavatfootage thathumor has been tuckedinaway ing both the and pathos the in the National Geographic archives turbulent bond between a mother and fo over 50 years. Award-winning directo her teenage daughter. Christine “Lady BrettMcPherson Morgen tells the against story ofbut Jane, Bird” fights is a womanlikewhose chimpanzee research exactly her wildly loving, deeply challenged and the male-dominated scien opinionated strong-willed mom, consensus of her time and revolu a tific nurse working tirelessly to keep her tionized our after understanding of the natu family afloat Lady Bird’s father ral world. Set toina Sacramento, rich orchestral score loses his job. Set Califrominlegendary composer Philip Glass fornia 2002, amidst a rapidly shifting the film offers an unprecedented, American economic landscape, Ladyinti mate portrait of Jane Goodall—a trail Bird is an affecting look at the relationblazer defied thebeliefs odds to become ships thatwho shape us, the that deone thethe world’s most beauty admired con fine us,ofand unmatched of a servationists.. (Not rated,R,90 place called home. (Rated 94min.) min.)

Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Oscar Isaac

Easy for parents! FUN for kids!

Preschool and elementary pick-up from Porter’s Neck/Ogden schools

Monday - Friday: 7:45 a.m. - 6 p.m.

7946 Market St. • 910-319-7879

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SOUTHEASTERN NC’S PREMIER DINING GUIDE

GRUB & GUZZLE

YO SAKE DOWNTOWN SUSHI LOUNGE • www.yosake.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

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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. ■ WEBSITE: www.bluesurfcafe.com

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, 11am-2pm; Thursday evening, 5pm-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.camcafe.org

CAM CAFÉ CAM Café, located within the CAM delivers delightful surprises using fresh, local ingredients. The café serves lunch with seasonal options Tuesday thru Saturday, inspired “small plates” on Wednesday nights, an elegant yet approachable dinner

THE DISTRICT KITCHEN & COCKTAILS A new addition to the Brooklyn Arts and downtown area, The District Kitchen & Cocktails is serving fresh, seasonal menus in a polished casual atmosphere. We feature locally sourced ingredients when available. For lunch, we offer delicious burgers and sandwiches, while dinner features steaks,

chops and seafood all handcrafted by executive chef Luke Poulos. Within blocks of CFCC and the Riverwalk, The District welcomes diners to enjoy inspired wines, craft cocktails and NC draught beers at their renovated bar and restaurant, located at 1001 N. 4th St. 910-(910) 769-6565 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues-Wed 5pm9pm, Thurs.-Sat 5pm-10pm ■ SERVING BRUNCH: Sunday 11am-3pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Brooklyn Arts District ■ WEBSITE: www.districtnc.com 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 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 11:3010:00; Friday and Saturday 11:30-11:00 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Wilmington Kids menu available THE FELIX CAFE The Felix Cafe is a restaurant experience like no other in Wilmington, N.C. Our eatery is a unique and relaxing gem situated near the port, and at the edge of Sunset Park on Burnett Blvd. We believe fine dining doesn’t have to come with all the fuss. From our homemade soups to the locally sourced produce, we let the ingredients speak for them-

selves in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Folks will enjoy the outdoor seating, our vibrant staff, the colorful interior, and our cabana style tiki bar. You will come here as a customer and leave as a friend. 2140 Burnett Blvd. (910) 399-1213. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon closed. TuesFri 11am-9 pm. Sat and Sun breakfast 8-11:30, opened 8am to 9pm. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Sunset Park, Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials, full bar, check out our facebook for wine tasting and live music schedule ■ WEBSITE: www.thefelixcafewilmington.com and facebook.com/thefelixcafewilmington 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.: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials. ■ WEBSITE: www.henrysrestaurant.com HOLIDAY INN RESORT Oceans Restaurant located in this oceanfront resort is a wonderful find. This is the perfect place to enjoy a fresh Seafood & Steak dinner while dinning outside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Chef Eric invites you to experience his daily specials in

Wilmington’s

Premier Wine Bar

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

this magnificent setting. (910) 256-2231. 1706 N. Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Sat. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Waterfront dining ■ WEBSITE: www.holidayinn.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 JOHNNYLUKES KITCHENBAR Good eats, good drinks, and great times is what JohnnyLukes KitchenBar is all about. JohnnyLukes KitchenBar serves Wilmington, NC a variety of 19 rotating craft beers on tap, a hand selected eclectic American wine list, fun cocktails, and of course, exceptional food. Our two-story layout brings the best of both worlds under one roof. Downstairs at JohnnyLukes KitchenBar pair your beer or wine with our Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop, Chicken

Pot Pie, Ribeye, or one of our many main entrees and sharable plates. Or, join us upstairs at JL’s Loft and pair a beer with one of our multiple burgers, JL’s roast beef sandwich, meatball sandwich, or one of our many appetizers (we recommend both!). So next time you are looking for a new and exciting restaurant in Wilmington, NC where you can experience both great craft beer and amazing food, be sure to head over to JohnnyLukes KitchenBar and JL’s Loft! 5500 Market Street, Suite 130. (910)769-1798 ■ OPEN: JohnnyLukes KitchenBar: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 10pm; JL’s Loft: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 2am ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.johnnylukeskb.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 fourcourse 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) 251-0433. ■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; Seasonal hours are open 7 days a week, Memorial Day through 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 night

TRY OUR

GINGERBREAD COOKIE LATTE

Gingerbread and cinnamon with a touch of white chocolate topped with house made whipped cream

CREATED by

JOSI HANDLINE

(910) 399-4292 29 S Front St Wilmington fortunateglasswinebar.com

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menu,” $65/couple with beer and wine tasting every Fri. and half price bottles of wine on Sun. ■ MUSIC: Mondays and Memorial Day-October, 7-9pm ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com MUNCHIES The most unique restaurant in Wilmington is Munchies. Located adjacent to the UNCW campus, Munchies provides a new take on classic American fare. Selling items unavailable anywhere else such as the famous “Fat Sandwiches”, decadent milk shakes, and fried desserts set Munchies apart, while the incredible flavor of traditional items such as burgers and wings make Munchies stand out. Open until 3 am daily, and offering dine in, take out, and delivery options, as well the choice of ordering online, Munchies is a new American classic for todays modern world. Perfect for lunch, dinner or a late night snack, and totally customizable, Munchies makes sure you get your food, your way, all day. 419 S. College Rd., Unit 35, 910-798-4999. Dine in • Delivery • Take out ■ OPEN LUNCH AND DINNER: 12pm - 3 am daily ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: munchiesfoodco.com

ity, 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 RISE Serving up the best dang biscuits and donuts in Wilmington, Rise is not any typical breakfast spot. Our donut menu includes an assortment of ‘old school, new school, and our school’ flavors; and our buttery, flaky biscuits filled with country ham, bacon, sausage, fried chicken, and fried eggplant “bacon” are crave-worthy. Lunch is on the Rise with our new chicken sandwiches on potato rolls and fresh salads. 1319 Military Cutoff Rd. (910) 239-9566 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.- Sun. 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ WEBSITE: http://risebiscuitsdonuts.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 inhouse, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy ambience of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest qual- SPOONFED KITCHEN & BAKE SHOP Newly opened Spoonfed Kitchen & Bake Shop is

THE PILOT HOUSE RESTAURANT • www.pilothouserest.com bringing their love for great food and customer service to Wilmington! Spoonfed Kitchen & Bake Shop specializes in creating wholesome, delightful foods to feed your lifestyle. Please join us in our cafe for breakfast, lunch & weekend brunch. We offer coffee & pastries, great foods to go from our deli & freezer cases (appetizers, salads, entrees & sides), bakery items (scones, cinnamon rolls, cookies, brownies, pies & more), gluten-free bakery items, and specialty market, cheeses & beverage. Catering is also available for all budets from personal to corporate to events. #feedyourlifestyle. 1930 Eastwood Road, Suite 105, Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 679-8881. Open Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Sat. - Sun. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ SERVING BRUNCH: Sat. & Sun. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ WEBSITE: www.spoonfedkitchen.com THE TROLLY STOP Trolly Stop Hot Dogs is a five-store franchise in Southeastern North Carolina. Since 1976 they have specialized in storemade chili, slaw and various sauces. As of more recently, select locations (Fountain Dr. and Southport) have started selling genuine burgers and cheese steaks (Beef & Chicken). Our types of hotdogs include beef & Pork (Trolly Dog), all-beef, pork smoked sausage (Carolina Packer), Fat Free (Turkey) & Veggie. Recognized as having the Best Hot Dog in the Best of Wilmington Awards in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Call Individual Stores for hours of operation or check out our website at www.trollystophotdogs.com. Catering available, now a large portion of our business. All prices include tax. Call Rick at 297-8416 for catering and franchise information. ■ 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

22 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

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: 910833-8841 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open 7 days 11am-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, North 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. Dai-

ly 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 / 4pm-11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am9:30pm ■ 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 mouthwatering 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. 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. 12pm11pm, Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-11pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine. com

BAGELS BEACH BAGELS Beach Bagels is “the” favorite spot for breakfast and lunch in Wilmington. Get a taste of a New York-style bagel by the beach. We make our bagels the traditional way: kettle-boiled then baked and always made with love. Enjoy something simple like a traditional BLT, or spice it up and try our AnnieWB: turkey breast, bacon, Swiss, lettuce, tomato, mayo, onions, and jalapeños. Not in the mood for a bagel? Don’t worry, we have ciabatta bread, croissants, kaiser rolls, biscuits, and wraps. Whatever you’re looking for, we have you covered. Don’t forget to make your lunch sandwich a combo for only $1.50,. and get a small drink, potato salad or chips and a pickle spear. Come see us at 5906 Oleander Drive or 7220 Wrightsville Avenue—right before the drawbridge on the way to beautiful Wrightsville Beach. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown and Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Homemade bagels, biscuits, croissants, sandwiches, and more! ■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/Beach-Bagels-301865953202309/

first stop”; “flavors just dance in my mouth.” From traditional Jamaican breakfast to mouth-watering classic dishes such as Brownstew chicken, curry goat, oxtail, and jerk pork, our selections also include many vegetarian and select seafood options. Student meal options are $6.99, and catering options are available. University Landing, 417 S. College Road, Wilmington SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues-Sat., 11:45am-9pm. Closed Sun. and Mon. NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown WEBSITE: www.jamaicascomfortzone.net, and follow us on Facebook or Twitter

DINNER THEATRE THEATRENOW TheatreNOW is a performing arts complex that features weekend dinner theater, an award-winning 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 ■ WEBSITE: www.theatrewilmington.com

IRISH THE HARP

Daily Lunch Specials

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

ITALIAN 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 en-

Daily Drink Specials

CARIBBEAN JAMAICA’S COMFORT ZONE Tucked in the U-shape of University Landing, a block from UNCW is Wilmington’s fave Caribbean restaurant, serving diners for over nine years. Family-owned and -operated, Jamaica’s Comfort Zone provides a relaxing atmosphere along with a blend of Caribbean delights. Our guests have graced us with numerous compliments over the years: “explosive Caribbean culinary experience”; “every year we are here on vacation—you are our

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 23

suring 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 FAT TONY’S ITALIAN PUB Fat Tony’s has the right combination of Italian and American influences to mold it into a unique family-friendly restaurant with a “gastropub” feel. Boasting such menu items as Veal Saltimbocca, Eggplant Parmigiana, USDA Prime Sirloin, and award-winning NY style hand-tossed pizzas, Fat Tony’s is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their appetizers range from Blue Crab Dip to Grilled Pizzas to Lollipop Lamb Chops. Proudly supporting the craft beer movement, they have an ever-changing selection of microbrews included in their 27-tap lineup – 12 of which are from NC. They have a wide selection of bottled beers, a revamped wine list, and an arsenal of expertly mixed cocktails that are sure to wet any whistle. Fat Tony’s offers lunch specials until 3pm Monday through Friday and a 10% discount to students and faculty at CFCC. They have two pet-friendly patios – one looking out onto Front Street and one with a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River. With friendly, excellent service and a fun, inviting atmosphere, expect to have your expectations exceeded at Fat Tony’s. Find The Flavor…..Craft Beer, Craft Pizza! ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Thurs-

day 11 am-10 pm; Fri.-Sat., 11 am-Midnight; Sun., noon-10 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.fatpub.com ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials until 3pm and late night menu from 11pm until closing. 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

24 BEERS ON DRAFT & OVER 100 BOTTLED 20 TVS WITH ALL MAJOR SPORTS PACKAGES PROUDLY FEATURING BOAR’S HEAD MEATS

Full menu until 2 a.m., 7 days a week Locally owned and operated • Call for carry-out

5046 New Centre Drive | Wilmington, NC 28403

(910) 859-7374

24 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

you’re looking to get creative in your own kitchen, A Taste of Italy carries a wide selection of imported groceries, from pasta to olive 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!

LATIN AMERICAN SAN JUAN CAFÉ Offering the most authentic, gourmet Latin American cuisine in Wilmington. With dishes from countries such as Puerto Rico, Colombia, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and Cuba you’ll be able to savor a variety of flavors from all over Latin America. Located at 3314 Wrightsville Avenue. 910.790.8661 Follow us on Facebook/Twitter for live music updates! ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon - Sat. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and from 5-10 p.m. Closed Sunday. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Nightly specials ■ WEBSITE: www.sanjuancafenc.com

MEXICAN EL CERRO GRANDE In January, El Cerro Grande will celebrate 25 years serving authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine to the greater Wilmington area. With an ever-evolving menu, they have introduced eight new exclusive soft tacos as part of Taco Fiesta! They churn out mouth-watering enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, chef specialties, and more, in a colorfully inviting dining room marked by a friendly staff and attention to detail. Check out El Cerro’s daily drink and food specials at their three different locations, including $3.50 margaritas on Tuesdays off Military Road, on Wednesdays at 341 S. College Road, and on Thursdays at 5120 S. College Road. Mondays feature fajita dinners for 10.99 at all locations, and they even have karaoke every Wednesday at 341 S. College Rd, starting at 6 p.m. Serving lunch and dinner daily. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri., open at 11 a.m.; Sat-Sun., open at 11:30 a.m. ■ LOCATIONS: 341 S. College Rd., 910-7930035; 5120 S. College Rd., 910-790-8727; 1051 Military Cutoff Rd., 910-679-4209 ■ WEBSITE: www.elcerrogranderestaurant.com 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.lacostamexicanrestauranwilmington.com

ORGANIC LOVEY’S NATURAL FOODS & CAFÉ Lovey’s Natural Foods & Café is a true blessing for shoppers looking for organic and natural groceries and supplements, or a great place to meet friends for a quick, delicious and totally fresh meal or snack. Whether you are in the mood for a veggie burger, hamburger or a chicken Caesar wrap, shoppers will find a large selection of nutritious meals on the a la carte Lovey’s Cafe’ menu. The Food Bar—which has cold, organic salads and hot selections—can be eaten in the newly expanded Lovey’s Cafe’ or boxed for take-out. The Juice Bar offers a wide variety of delicious juices and smoothies made with organic fruits and vegetables. Specializing in bulk sales of grains, flours, beans and spices at affordable prices. Lovey’s has a great selection of local produce and receives several weekly deliveries to ensure freshness. Lovey’s also carries organic grass-fed and free-range meats and poultry. wheat-free and gluten-free products are in stock regularly, as are vegan and vegetarian groceries. Lovey’s also carries Wholesome Pet Foods. Stop by Lovey’s Market Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 am to 6 p.m.. Located at 1319 Military Cutoff Rd in the Landfall Shopping Center; (910) 509-0331. “You’ll Love it at Lovey’s!” ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Café open: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.(salad bar open all the time). Market hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington in the Landfall Shopping Center ■ FEATURING: Organic Salad Bar/Hot Bar, Bakery with fresh, organic pies and cakes. ■ WEBSITE: www.loveysmarket.com

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 its growing popularity, the restaurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to a second location in Porter’s Neck, and coming soon in 2017, their third location in 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: 11:30am-4pm

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 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. ■ 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. 910-3430200 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. (910-4587380) and our second location is at 109 Market Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington (910-8338622). 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 ■ NEIGHBORHOODS: Carolina Beach and Downtown ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials. Like us on Facebook! ■ WEBSITE: www.TheShuckinShack.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 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

SPORTS BAR CAROLINA ALE HOUSE Voted best new restaurant AND best sports bar 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 South College Road. (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 JAX 5TH AVE. DELI & ALE HOUSE Locally owned and operated, Jax offers a laid-back atmosphere, welcoming foodies, sports fans, and craft beer enthusiasts alike. We provide a full eclectic menu of quality Boar’s Head sliced meat and cheeses, and feature unique items like our smoked

salmon deviled egg, a legendary Italian sandwich, and famous pita pizzas that bake up lite and crispy. 20 HDTVs feature premium sports packaging for all the games! Supporting local craft breweries with 24 drafts and over 100 different bottles and cans, enjoy it all inside the shiny silver building or outside on the dog-friendly patio at 5046 New Centre Dr. Carry out: 910-859-7374. ■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Full menu until 2am daily. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, near UNCW ■ FEATURING: Daily food and drink specials. ■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/ JaxFifthAveDeliAleHouse

TAPAS/WINE BAR THE FORTUNATE GLASS WINE BAR The Fortunate Glass is 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. The food menu 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. Daily small plates, and wine and beer specials. ■ WEBSITE: www.fortunateglass.com

Burney’s Sweets & more

Get your sweet on!! • Our Famous Croissants! • Breakfast and lunch sandwiches. • Pastries. • Cakes. • Pies. • Ice cream. • Coffee. 14542 US Hwy 17 Hampstead, NC • 910-319-0591 burneysofhampstead@gmail.com

Hours: Mon-Fri 6:00am to 5:00pm, Sat 7:00am to 2:00pm

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 25

UPCOMING EVENTS:

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21 | 1:00 P.M. Women’s Basketball vs Georgia St. * Game sponsored by Atlantic Marine

Hot Dogs – $1 • Kids under 14 – tickets $1 Postgame Autograph Session Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest at halftime

26 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

NIP SIP

GRUB & GUZZLE>>FEATURE

EN FUEGO:

foodtastic events

Zocalo fires up taste buds at Barclay Commons

vor. The oblong, thick, fried tortilla comes vegetarian (so, naturally, I garnished it with pork). On top of the tortilla is a base of black beans, roasted veggies, salty cojita cheese, a drizzle of cream, and tender shredded carnitas. It is by far my favorite; each bite of the Mexican-style pizza is layered with unctuous pork and tender veggies: beans, delicate squash blossoms and sautéed spinach. The homemade tortilla has a wonderful chew and is easiest to tackle by hand.

BY: ROSA BIANCA

ardon my Mexi-coma. I am currently bursting with chimichangas and queso—and I’m not mad about it. Though the Pointe at Barclay still, quietly, is getting on its feet, the shopping center’s restaurants are actively bringing their A-game. Zocalo may have a slower crowd flow during the day, but that isn’t stopping their kitchen from putting out authentic, mouth-watering Mexican street food on the reg. Having already tasted some of Zocalo’s treats on an unofficial eating and drinking visit, I was familiar with the place. As far as spirits go, I sampled several and was blown away equally by each one. The margaritas are made fresh-to-order (no bottled mixes here). There are 50 types of tequila to make your clothes come off, and the caramelized-pineapple mojito is particularly refreshing. Although, the cuisine here doesn’t resemble popular MexiAmerican chains, like El Cerro, Zocalo is an extension (kind of like the sophisticated cousin) of the successful restaurant group. Thanks to Chef Julio Camberos, the modern eatery has a fierce, authentic flair and is delivering flavors to tingle taste buds. The bright, spacious interior is made three times more colorful when the salsa trio is delivered to the table. No dinky chips here. Every yellow triangle was thick, salted and fresh out of the fryer. The chips have substance and texture— and when I crunched into a bubble, the open hole produced the perfect pocket for capturing queso. Salsa-wise, go for the zippy green tomatillo, with its vibrant citrus notes. The other two are traditional, oniony and red—one mild and one that will light up diners. Three dips and housemade chips are a hell of a complimentary starter, but I couldn’t resist the guacamole or queso. Why have three places to put a chip when there can be five? The guac— loaded with red onions, serrano peppers and cilantro—comes with just enough lime and salt. For a show-stealer at dinner time, order it prepared table-side and try it Acapulco-style, with shrimp, orange and habanero. Queso tastes rich, warm, creamy, and cheesy. I had seen several Yelpers rave over

ENCHILADA TRIFECTA: Corn tortillas stuffed three ways—shrimp, beef and chicken—come topped with mole, poblano and entomatada sauces. Photo by Tom Dorgan

the lunchtime chimichanga, so I got mine with chicken tinga. The flour tortilla doesn’t come overly fried and is generously packed with juicy shredded chicken in a tomatoey sauce. Along with all the dippers, it was a monster of a meal. Filling is an understatement as the chimichanga swims in a pool of melty queso, guacamole and pico, alongside arroz Mexicano (traditional Mexican rice) and black beans. The rice is tasty, and the beans—pureed into a savory paste and garnished with crumbled white cheese— amps up any food addiction. Next on deck, after my server’s suggestion: enchiladas. For the best of all worlds, there is a trio: three rolled corn tortillas with shredded beef, chicken and shrimp. The sauce medley of entomatada, mole and poblano chile sauce tastes lively, colorful and is responsible for most of the interesting action on the plate. Though the beef is good, it’s not knock-your-socks-off good. The shrimp enchilada is smothered in the creamy, smoky green poblano sauce and also isn’t memorable. The mole sauce, however, is earthy and by far provides the most depth and character. Zocalo specializes in hand-making several different varieties of corn tortillas, and the Blue Corn Huarache is a great way to really experience the masa’s fla-

The Pambazo DF (Mexico city-style sandwich) comes with its cushy, oval adobado bread soaked in pepper sauce. Though the filling’s spices are solid, the amount of chorizo, potato, cheese, and veggies is on the meager side. Lots of people mention the Pambazo DF reviews online that while the sandwich is good, the fries are a miss. Ancho-spiced fries certainly sound intriguing, so I hoped for the best. Unfortunately, the soggy potato sticks are in fact unseasoned (no sign of chili powder anywhere) and radically underwhelming. (Zocalo, you’re doing everything else so well. Take a tip from your fickle feedback and make a move.) All in all, Zocalo has come out of the gate strong with creative flavors and culinary delights. Fried things drenched in cheese are an obvious win. But from light, zesty seafood ceviche to seasonally inspired salads and traditional soups, there’s a whole lot to love.

DETAILS:

Zocalo Street Food and Tequila

1474 Barclay Pointe Blvd. Ste. 206 Mon. - Thurs., 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri. - Sat., 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. *Bar menu only on Fri. and Sat., 10 p.m. - 11 p.m. 910-833-5142 zocalostreetfood.com

Christmas Eve Meals and Dinner

Sun., Dec. 24, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; dinner at 6 p.m. Pine Valley United Methodist Church 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Free

Pine Valley United Methodist Church (PVUMC) will provide a free traditional holiday meal featuring freshly cooked ham, turkey and all the trimmings, to individuals and families in need on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. Meals also will be delivered to several shelters, charity organizations, church members in nursing homes, and city fire stations. The Pine Valley Christmas Eve Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. in the church’s Fellowship Hall at 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Meals can be picked up at the church from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. All are welcome.

Free Wine + Beer Tasting Fri., Dec. 29, 6 p.m. Fermental 7250 Market St. Free www.fermental.net

Sample, sip and enjoy an everchanging list of wines and beers from around the world every week. Accompanied by gourmet offerings from local food trucks as well as live music indoors or in the beer garden, this weekly event is a perfect opportunity to meet and mingle as you welcome the weekend on the beautiful NC coast. Wine is available by the glass or bottle; beer by the pint or bottle. Take home your favorite or enjoy in house. Children and pet friendly.

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 27

BACK BY POPLAR DEMAND... 7210 Wrightsville Ave LUNCH at CEVICHE’S

Wilmington, NC bar 28403 Local, cozy and original side lunch Wednesday 11am-3pm (910)- Saturday 256-3131 Coastal Living recommended Wbceviche@gmail.com Mention this encore ad and receive

10% off thru Dec. 2017

7210 Wrightsville Ave. Wilmington, NC 910-256-3131 • www.wbceviche.com Hours

Lunch Hours: Wed – Sat 11am – 3pm Mon5pm – Wed pm- Sat – 9pm Dinner Hours: Mon – Wed – 9pm •5 Thurs 5pm - 10pm • Closed Sun.

Thur – Sat 5pm – 10pm Saturday Lunch 11am – 3pm Sunday Brunch 10am – 2:30pm

“Purveyors of Superior Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars from around the world” Taste the Difference ~ Taste the Olive ~ Taste the World® Landfall Center

1319-BB Military Cutoff Rd. (910) 256-OILS (6457) www.tasteofolive.com 28 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

CREATING WHOLESOME, DELIGHTFUL FOOD TO FEED YOUR LIFESTYLE

CAFE SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH // BAKERY & COFFEE // FRESH SALADS. ENTREES & PASTRIES TO GO SPECIALTY MARKET DELIVERING MEALS TO YOUR VACATION HOME C ATERING

W W W. S P O O N F E D K I T C H E N . C O M

910-679-8881â&#x20AC;¢ 1930 EASTWOD ROAD, #105, WILMINGTON, NC

Yoshi Sushi Bar and Japanese Cuisine is offering something the greater Wilmington area has never seen before: 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!

BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER

Happy Hour Sun.-Thur., 4-6pm. Featuring discounted appetizers an d select sushi rolls!

GOURMET HOT CHOCOLATES UNIQUE SPECIALS DAILY

WWW.BLUESURFCAFE.COM

SURF. EAT. REPEAT.

250 Racine Drive Wilmington, NC Racine Commons 910.523.5362

Displayed is our Saketini, the Princess Peach, and behind that (from left to right) is a bowl of Ramen in the Tonkostu (pork) broth. Next to that is our appetizer, Takoyaki, which is an fried round of octopus. Beside that is a Salmon Poke bowl. Beneath is the dinner portion of steak and chicken Hibachi!

260 Racine Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 799-6799 Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11am - 10pm Sunday 12pm - 10pm encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 29

HAPPENINGS & EVENTS ACROSS WILMINGTON

TO-DO CALENDAR

events

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

Dec. 24, Join us for Christmas Eve services at 4pm or 9pm with Holy Eucharist. All are welcome! Church of the Servant, 4925 Oriole Dr.

LAST-MINUTE MARKET

Dec. 23, 10am: Last Minute Holiday Market at The Old Wilmington City Market! Get your last minute gifts small, local businesses on the river (next to The George restaurant). Featuring The Bearded Heart, Porch Time, Mom’s Best Turtle Cove, Botanical Synergy,

Mommy’s EZ, Kritter Couture ,My Porch Dawg ,Bryand Gallery, Carolina Country Store, Pepper Mill, Cabin Girls, 2 Chicks with Scents, Soul Anchor, Coastal Tides, Victorian Magpie, Chelsea Metals, infused Beauty Bar, Coastal Focus Art, Nico Blue, Cape Fear Parrot Sanctuary, Jems by the Sea, Linda Flynn Art, Things Handmade, and Luna Cafe. 119 South Water St., Unit B

CHRISTMAS EVE MEALS

Pine Valley United Methodist Church (PVUMC) will provide a free traditional holiday meal featuring freshly cooked ham, turkey and all the trimmings, to individuals and

families in need on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. The yearly outreach brings together more than 100 volunteers who work for five days to prepare the feast to feed those in need and celebrate the holiday. Meals will be delivered to several shelters, charity organizations, church members in nursing homes, and city fire stations. The Pine Valley Christmas Eve Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. in the church’s Fellowship Hall, 3788 Shipyard Blvd. in Wilmington. Meals can also be picked up at the church from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. All are welcome.Church will also host five services on Dec. 24: traditional at 11 a.m., child focused at 3 p.m., contempo-

rary at 5 p.m., blended at 7:30 p.m., and traditional at 11p.m. We invite everyone in the community to join us in worship. 3788 Shipyard Blvd. CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER DISTRIBUTING

Dec. 24, 10am: This holiday season the Girl Scouts are providing 1,000 food insecure families with Christmas Eve Dinner. Each box contains turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, gravy, a roll and dessert. We need your help to ensure that every one of our families has a Happy & Healthy Christmas! We are in need of 120 cars [equipped with drivers and elves] dress festive! Register to help: https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/ showSignUp/20F094CADA72FA5FB6christmas5. Girl Scouts Wilmington Service Center, 2250 Shipyard Blvd, Suite 3

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS! A NEW YEARS EVE

Dec. 31, 5:30pm: Ring in the New Year 2018 at “Midnight in Paris.” 3-course menu and a glass of Bubbly plus “cotillions” (NYE hats). RSVP: 910-815-0200. Le Catalan French Cafe Wine Bar, 224 S. Water St.

NYE BACCHANALIA

New Year’s Eve 2017: Bacchanalia! at TheatreNOW Sun., Dec. 31, 6pm & 9:30pm. Tickets $90/$170 couple for dinner and a limited number of show only tickets for $40. A decadent variety show including aerialists, comedy, live music, fire performers and more champagne toast and party favors an indulgent multi-course tasting menu from Chef Denise Gordon with a vegetarian option. Theatre NOW, 19 S. 10th St.

NYE W/BOBA FUNK

Dec. 31, 8pm: Wrightsville Beach Brewery is excited to announce our first annual New Years Eve party with local funk band favorite Boba Funk! Band plays 9pm to midnight; specials all day and night. Free. Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

NYE DANCE PARTY/DONATION DRIVE

Dec. 31, 8pm: New Years Eve at Bourgie Nights (beside Manna) The party kicks off with a killer comedy line up including Cliff Cash (Comedy Central UpNext), Drew Harrison (Port City’s Top comic 2016) Tyler Wood (Rad in Plaid Tour) and Cordero Wilson (Port City’s Top Comic 2015). After the show is an all request DJ dance party then a champagne toast at midnight where everyone gets a can of champagne #baller. Donation drive for The Good Sheperd House. A list of items needed can be found in the facebook event. Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

NYE COASTAL COLLECTIVE

Dec. 31, 9:30pm: Ring in the New Year at Hell’s Kitchen for our 10th annual New Year’s Eve Bash!! Enjoy rockin’ funk and soul music from Coastal Collective, cash balloon drop and champagne toast at midnight, lots of drink specials, party favors

30 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

CROSSWORD

WWW.STANXWORDS.COM

12/24/17

THE NEWSDAy CROSSWORD

Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)

SWEET CAROL LINES: About 120 Across by S.N. ACROSS 1 Passover feast 6 France’s patron saint 11 Successful legislation 15 Regarding 19 Address an audience 20 Hot under the collar 21 Boutique 22 Eminent anthropologist 23 “. . . __ and a button nose . . .” 26 Large collection 27 Neighbor of Peru 28 Ben-__ (Heston role) 29 Makes one’s home 31 Rhett Butler’s last word 32 Innocent one 35 Green beverage 38 Vintage-phone trio 39 Hourglasses, for instance 41 Foolish one 42 Without help 44 “. . . but the children know __ . . .” 50 Amalgamation 51 Mexican shawl 52 Ventilation tube 53 Venomous snakes 55 Car with no gas tank 58 Stops hiking for a bit 61 Austrian peak 62 Spa staffer 66 Simpsons grandpa 68 Hog-calling shout 70 Vivid crayon category 72 “. . . He began to __ . . .” 75 Behavior to avoid 76 First course of a sort 78 Informal refusal 79 Winery employees

81 82 84 86 88 90 94 95 101 102 103 104 105 108 109 113 115 117 119 120 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132

Day planner abbr. Ledger entry Offer as explanation Winter Olympics race Unpleasant task Main course Grammy category “. . . Don’t you cry, __” German mathematician Director Buñuel Amateur Out-of-date, for short Perpetual Academic period Santa’s burden Certain vaccine’s target Londoner’s lav Swimmer’s ailment Spiral shape Subject of the carol lines Palette array Durable hardwood Molecular makeup Used for dinnerware Continental prefix Energetic State-run game Unlike rolling stones, supposedly

DOWN 1 Planted, as seeds 2 Novelist Jong 3 Single statistic 4 Actor Hawke 5 Study a script 6 Kids’ shoebox projects 7 Make a mess of things 8 A Bobbsey twin 9 Hankering

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 25 30 33 34 36 37 39 40 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 54 56 57 59 60 63 64 65 67 69 71 73

East Asian capital Venomous snake Tai __ (martial art) Five-star Radar reading It means “both” Place for peas Athens eatery Wanderer’s adventure Infant’s ailment Stable gear Occult activities Viral Web phenomenon Title in Uncle Remus tales Me, in Marseilles Santa assistant Midmorning hr. Art in a park Makes known Everyone How a dog is walked Street where Elizabeth Barrett lived Goblin starter In working order Possessive pronoun Unfortunate Cambodia neighbor Border on Played a flute Portuguese woman __ Gabriel Mountains Kid’s coat closer Say again Compass reading “Permission granted” Bigwigs Wicker material

74 77 80 83 85 87 89

Many coll. professors Blixen’s pen name Sports replay mode Margarine holder What might fill a mill Large primate Person on commission 91 Real hoot 92 Feminizing suffix 93 Trattoria beverage

95 “Understood” 96 Shia of the Transformers films 97 More spirited 98 Mutt 99 Family members 100 Suze of personal finance 106 University near Boston 107 Boy Scout Law adjective

109 110 111 112 114 116 118 121 122 123 124

Made sure of Heights of perfection Pandemonium South Park boy Furthermore Comics bulldog Meander Canoe implement Rainbow’s location Pungent or popular Paramedic designation

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

Best of 2018 Final Voting is Open

737 3rd street

hermosa beach, ca 90254

tel. (310) 337-7003

FaX (310) 337-7625

through jan. 16 at encor epub.com

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 31

Happy

Holidays

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

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

www.beachbagels910.com

32 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

Coming Soon To

5906 Oleander Drive Monkey Junction 910-769-4232 5226 S. College Rd.

Come and sing Christmas carols with Santa and his special â&#x20AC;&#x153;reindeerâ&#x20AC;?

december 15-16 and december 21-24 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. $12 adults, $5 Kids under 12 snuggle under warm lap blankets while enjoying the beautiful Christmas lights!Market & Water streets in downtown Wilmington & Free Candy Canes for the kids!

For more info call

(910) 251-8889

Springbrook Farms Inc. www.horsedrawntours.com encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 33

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Throw That Old Funiture Away! Go Green & Re-Upholster!

Fast Turn-around Time

RE SPON SIBLE IT SOLUTIONS

Let our experts turn your old, drab furniture into exciting new decor.

Ask about our â&#x20AC;&#x153;re-purposedâ&#x20AC;? furniture

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Call us at 910.392.0078 www.Computer-Medics.biz help@Computer-Medics.biz

Do not despair, we can make the repair... let us fix separation anxiety

Full Service Shop ~ Insured Award Winning Custom Interiors 910.799.8746 (TRIM) 6609 Windmill Way

Is Your Car Ceiling (Headliner) drooping? WE REMOVE, CLEAN & RECOVER with NEW MATERIAL.

15% DISCOUNT WITH AD â&#x20AC;˘ Expires 1/15/18

GREAT GIFT IDEA

Purchase this card for unlimited cruising with us on any of our regularly scheduled cruises. Any cruise with food being served, beer or wine tasting would be $10 additional. *Cruises that are excluded are....Azalea Festival, 4th of July & Riverfest

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

W I N N E R

Gift Certificates Available!

Every $25 spent on gift certificates gets you $5 in cat bucks to spend on any cruise.

Visit us on the Riverwalk! 212 S. Water Street

910-338-3134

info@wilmingtonwt.com

BAR ON BOARD WITH ALL ABC PERMITS

Complete Schedule:

wilmingtonwatertours.net HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE 34 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

Only $175 Also 20% off any guest tickets and $100 off when booking a Private Charter Good for 1 year from date of purchase

DECEMBER SCHEDULE

Sunday - Eagles Island Cruises 12, 1, 2, 3 & 4 pm Tues, Wed & Thurs 12, 1, 2, 3 & 4pm Fri & Sat - 12, 1, 2, 3 & 4pm â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spirit of the Seasonâ&#x20AC;? Cruise -Friday & Saturday Sold out til Dec. 29th & 30th

â&#x20AC;&#x153;SPIRIT OF THE HOLIDAYS CRUISEâ&#x20AC;? Only Available dates Dec. 29th & 30th â&#x20AC;˘ $20 Fri & Sat boarding @ 5:30pm â&#x20AC;˘ Departs at 6pm Cruise is 60 minutes into a magical light delight with holiday songs performed by a local Musician, tasty holiday cocktails from our bar with some tasty sweet treats. Great way to get into the Holiday spirit. Remember we are enclosed & very comfy

GREAT BOOK SELECTION

Visit our shop for our Great book selection Local History & Authors Buy 1 Get 2nd @ 50% off

It’s the Season of

g n i v i G

We are partnering with Good Sheperd to promote a Food and Needs Drive for the many people in our local community who need our help. Bring in non-perishable foods or any items on their greatest needs list (visit www.littledipperfondue.com/wilmington for full list) and

RECEIVE 10% OFF your entree

(regularly priced only, not including promotional items.)

ner Serving Din at 5pm, Tue-Sun

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

W I N N E R

Thank you, Wilmington, for choosing us the best place to a first date!us Thank you,asWilmington, forhave choosing

as theEncouraged best place to have a first date! 138 South Front Street • Downtown • Reservations • 910.251.0433 • www.littledipperfondue.com Every Tuesday is Date Night! 3 courses Cheese, entree, and dessert ~Select wine tastings paired with each course~ $65 per couple 138 South Front Street, Downtown reservations encouraged. 910.251.0433 www.littledipperfondue.com

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 35

JAPANESE HIBACHI STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI

Italian Sandwiches • Meatballs Spaghetti • Party Catering Breakfast All Day

Check With Our Staff About Our All You Can Eat Sushi Menu

1101 S College Rd. • (910) 392-7529 www.atasteofitalydeli.com

614 S. College Rd. • (910) 399-3366 www.okamisteakhouse.com

Baked from scratch in small batches all throughout the day!

hours of operation can be found on our website

UNIQUE COMBINATIONS WITH SWEET & SAVORY FLAIR! • Over 15 different flavors, like mango habanero, pear with hot bacon jam and our signature pepper cupcake • Daily and seasonal flavors • Warm house-made fruit compote cupcakes • Finished with fresh whipped creams, toasted nuts, ganache, fresh fruit, etc.

Come see why folks visit us from all over the world to taste the unexpected in a cupcake. 105 S. Front Street • 910.399.1088 • www.thepepperedcupcake.com NEW LOCATION NOW OPEN at 260 Racine Drive, Suite 7 • 910.769.1718 Monday: 10am-6pm • Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-9pm • Sunday: 10am-6pm

We DELIVER and SHIP • Check out reviews on Tripadvisor and Yelp! 36 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

and best of all—no cover! Hell’s KitchenWilmington, NC, 118 Princess St. WINTER BRIDAL EXPO

Jan. 7, noon: Join us for an afternoon of all things weddings as we bring together the best vendors for your big day! Register early and save on the cost of admission! Learn more at carolinaweddingguide.com. Wilmington Convention Center, 515 Nutt St.

ILM ELITE NETWORKING

as we raise money for Home of Hope! It’s a great opportunity for your friends and family who have always wanted to try yoga to give it a shot for free. There will be several different types of classes; they’ll be noted “free” on our online class schedule. Raffles and lots of specials offered as a fundraiser for the Homes of Hope Orphanage in India. Donations will be accepted during all weekend, and anyone wishing to donate who cannot make it to this event may call the WYC at (910) 350- 0234. Wilmington Yoga,

Jan. 10, 6-8pm: Powered by Rockstar Connect, ILM Elite presents an evening of free business networking. All industries and professions welcome; bring your business cards. Might as Well Bar & Grill, 250 Racine Dr., 15. Free! Light delicious complimentary appetizers served on a first come first serve basis. All atOpera House Theatre Company will be reprising tendees are responsible for their own their hit from the beginning of 2017, “Priscilla alcoholic beverages.1-800-205-2327 Queen of the Desert,” for the annual New Year’s or www.rockstarconnect.com.

DEC. 31: PRISCILLA QUEEN OF DESERT

N. BRUNSWICK NEWCOMER MEETING

Eve gala—a fundraiser for Thalian Hall. The tickets

Jan. 12, 9:30am: First meeting of 2018 are $150 adn include the show, food, spirits, and for the NBNC; meet-and-greet will bean afterparty! The musical will continue the first gin at 9:30am with snacks and refreshthree weekends in January as well; $32. Tickets: ments. Meeting will follow at 10am. Guests who live in Northern Brunswick www.thalianhall.org. County are welcome. Speaker will be Frank Herzog—a professional sports broadcaster. Frank is best known for his role as a play-by-play ra5329 Oleander Dr., Ste 200 dio announcer for the Washington Redskins broadcasts. In addition to his Redskins work, Herzog called games for the Washington Bullets basketball team, University of Maryland Terrapins basketball, and many MUSIC CRUISES other college football and basketball conA boat ride at sunset on the river! Join us tests on the CBS network. Herzog also has for a 1.5 hour cruise on the Cape Fear Rivhad minor parts in a few films, including er. Sip a drink from our full bar, enjoy the 2009’s State of Play, starring Russell Crowe sights, while listening to music by local muand Ben Affleck. Leland Cultural Arts Censicians. $27. Book: 910-338-3134. Wilmingter, 1212 Magnolia Village Way ton Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

music/concerts

charity/volunteer CAPE FEAR FESTIVAL OF TREES

Through Dec. 31, 9am-5pm: Set amidst the inspiring and educational backdrop of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Lower Cape Fear Hospice’s Cape Fear Festival of Trees features locally decorated, themed tress for the holiday season, with monies benefitting LCF Hospice. All visitors who purchase a general admission ticket to the aquarium will also experience the Cape Fear Festival of Trees. So, come get festive with the fishes and stroll through a forest of uniquely decorated trees. ncaquariums. com/fort-fisher-plan-your-visit. NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, 900 Loggerhead Rd.

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER DISTRIBUTING

Dec. 24, 10am: Elves needed! It’s that time of year! The Cape Fear Volunteer Center will be distributing Christmas Eve Dinner to more than 1000. We need 120 cars with drivers and elves! Do it solo or with the entire family! Dress festive and have a good time bringing a very special meal to those most in need. www.signupgenius.com/ go/20f094cada72fa5fb6-christmas5. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Bldg. B

YOGAFEST

Wilmington Yoga is offering free yoga & events Jan. 6-7, at both locations! Join us

com. 910-399-3669 PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT

Dec. 30-31, Jan. 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 8pm or 3pm on Sundays (except NYE). Book by Stephan Elliot and Allan Scott, based on the Latent Image/Specific Films Motion Picture. Distributed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc. Based on the 1994 film of the same name, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert tells the story of Tick, Bernadette, and Adam as they board a bus named Priscilla and t a k e their outrageous drag show across the Australian Outback. A hit parade of dance floor favorites from the ‘70s and ‘80s: “It’s Raining Men,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” “I Will Survive,” “Shake Your Groove Thing,” “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” “Hot Stuff”—but this funny and fabulous show also has big joyous heart that beats with an energetic pulse that will have you dancing in the aisles! NYE gala to benefit Thalian Hall includes food, show, spirits, and afterparty. $150. $32 thalianhall.org. Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut 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. www.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 in-booth 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. Dec. 6: Holiday Spectacular! Hosted by Blaire Postman and featuring features touring comics from Raleigh/Durham: Maddie Wiener (2017 first runner up, Carolinas Funniest Comic); Brandy Brown (TruTV); & Lauren Faber (Asheville Comedy Fest; Women in Comedy Festival). Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane

DEAD CROW COMEDY ROOM

Dec. 29-31, 7pm/9:30pm: New Years Event: (Sunday ticket price includes champagne toast at midnight): Andy Hendrickson is a comedian, writer and actor that built his career in New York City. He now resides in Los Angeles. He has a clever, conversational style that has been engaging audiences for over 15 years. His material is based on real life experiences and his anecdotes are laced with a hearty disapproval. He doesn’t really know what that means either. • Jan. 5-6, 7pm/9:30pm: Mekki Leeper is a stand-up comedian and writer from Philadelphia now living in Los Angeles. He wrote for the 2017 White House Correspondents Dinner, and Crooked Media’s Lovett or Leave It. He’s

CEJAY ALBUM RELEASE SHOW

Dec. 30, 9pm: Cejay, previously known in Wilmington as Chris James, will be having an album pre-release show for his hometown at the Calico Room on December 30th. Dylan Linehan and The Crystal Fussell Duo will be the opening acts at the show. During this show quests will be able to listen and pre-order copies of the album before it is released to the public. Cejay collaborated with some of the most prominent writers in Nashville including Shane McAnally and Josh Osbourne to name a few. The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.

theatre/auditions THE GREATEST GIFT

Written & directed by Zach Hanner, through Dec. 23, Fri/Sat, 7pm; Sun. in Dec. at 5pm. Doors open one hour prior to show time. Tickets $18-$44. Complimentary valet. “The Greatest Gift” follows a family as they deal with an ongoing medical crisis over the course of three Christmases. When a young architect finds himself diagnosed with an autoimmune condition, his health begins to plummet. And when his kidneys start to fail, he’s faced with some serious problems. Who in the family will step up and provide the kidney that he needs to live a normal life? A heartfelt comedy sure to warm your heart for the entire gift-giving season. TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th St. theatrewilmington.

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 37

performed at Bridgetown Comedy Festival, and Big Sky Comedy Festival. His work has been featured on NPR, Comedy Central Digital, and College Humor. “Rebrand” his live comedy show about advertising recently debuted on the Comedy Central Stage in Los Angeles. • Jan. 12, 7pm: Jon Rineman is a comedian and writer based in New York City who has appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” “Comics Unleashed” and “Gotham Comedy Live.” He has also been heard on Sirius XM Radio. Since 2009, he has been a staff writer for “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” and “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” earning two Emmy-nominations. He has also written for Seth Meyers at the 2011 White House Correspondents Dinner and 2011 ESPY Awards. He performs regularly at Broadway Comedy Club and the Comedy Cellar in New York City. Dead Crow Comedy Room. 265 N. Front St. deadcrowcomedy.com 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.

dance CAPE FEAR CONTRA DANCERS

Come on out for two hours of energetic, contemporary American country danc-

ing with live music by Box of Chocolates band—fiddle, percussion, guitar, dulcimer, bass, mandolin and more! Dress cool & comfortable, soft-soled shoes. All ages. 2nd/4th Tues, 7:30pm. United Methodist, 409 S. 5th Ave.

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.

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

PED ART

Pedestrian Art public sculpture series, a program of The Arts Council of Wilmington/NHC, features the installation of 10-12 sculptures throughout downtown Wilmington. 2017 program is made possible through support from the City of Wilmington, The Artworks, Craige & Fox LLC, Art in Bloom Gallery, the Dreams Center for Arts

State of the Art/Art of the State: (on view through July 8): Focusing on contemporary art by artists currently living in, or native to, the state of North Carolina. Artists bring a single work of art to be installed in the museum, delivering the work within 24‐hour period. No fee. During this timeframe, four curators from North Carolina institutions greet each artist and talk about their work. The design of this project Want to learn a new hobby for the new year? Get a provides any participating artist equal head start with Contra dancing! The Cape Fear Contra opportunity to meet a significant curator working in the field of contempoDancers host Tuesday-night socials the second and rary art today. CAM organized with a fourth Tuesday of the month at the United Methodist visual schematic for reference to the on 5th Avenue downtown. For two hours, participants over 600 intensely installed artworks. will learn contemporoary American country dancing • CAM Café open and serving deliwith live music on fiddle, percussion, guitar, dulcimer, cious menu with full bar, 5pm-9pm. 11am-2pm; Thurs. nights, bass, mandolin, and more! All ages welcome; no part- Tues.-Sun., 5pm-9pm 910-395-5999. cameronartner needed. Comfortable soft-soled shoes suggested. museum.org. 3201 S. 17th St. Education, and the Downtown Business Alliance. Amy Grant: grantamyn@gmail.com, 484-885-3037; or Rhonda Bellamy: info@ artswilmington.org, 910-343-0998.

DEC. 26: CONTRA DANCING

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM

DREAMING OF PEACE

Experience the extraordinary oil paintings of Tatyana Kulida and Mio Reynolds. Born in Russia, Tatyana is a classically-trained painter who studied in Italy and now resides in New Zealand. Fellow artist and friend, Mio Reynolds lives in Wilmington, NC.Runs through Jan. 13. Art in Bloom Gallery is open Tues.-Sat.,10am-6pm or by appt. Gallery is open until 9 pm on Fourth Friday Gallery Nights. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St.

MAE KLINGER

Dec. 27, 4-6pm: Join us for a special reception to meet artist, Mae Klinger, during her visit to Wilmington, North Carolina from Massachusetts. Learn more about Mae’s original art and creative processes. Cyanotype-style sun printing is an alternative photography process that uses UV light to develop paper treated with a chemical solution. And, discover Mae’s images of wings as she experiments with pen, colored ink, gouache and gold leaf on fine art paper. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St.

SHANNON BOURNE: AMERICAN STORIES

UNCW Department of Art’s newest faculty member is a versatile artist whose work spans film, graphic design, printmaking and ceramics. This exhibit features work in a variety of techniques, including innovative art that bridges the boundary between printmaking and ceramics. UNCW, Art Gallery, Cultural Arts Building, 601 S. College Rd.

museums/education CAMERON ART MUSEUM

Exhibits: Created By Light (Through Feb. 11): Exploring the photography collections of eight North Carolina institutions, the exhibition will examine the evolution of photography highlighting the names of the medium; the connections between the institutions and NC artists working in the medium. •

Enter your events online by noon, Thursdays, for consideration in print. www.encorepub.com 38 encore |december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

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 Children’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, 125pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. The Latimer House of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. Third St.

CAPE FEAR SERPENTARIUM

World’s most fascinating and dangerous reptiles in beautiful natural habitats, feat. a 12-foot saltwater crocodile, “Bubble Boy” and “Sheena,” a 23-ft long Reticulated Python that can swallow a human being whole! Giant Anaconda weighs 300 lbs, w/15 ft long King Cobras hood up and amaze you. See the Black Mamba, Spitting Cobras, Inland Taipans, Gaboon Vipers, Puff Adders, and more! Over 100 species, some so rare they are not exhibited anywhere else. One of the most famous reptile collections on earth. Open everyday in summer, 11am-5pm (Sat. till 6 pm); winter schedule, Wed-Sun. 20 Orange St., across

from the Historic Downtown Riverwalk, intersecting Front and Water St. 910762-1669. capefearserpentarium.com. BELLAMY MANSION

DEC. 21: MESSY HANDS TODDLER ART The Northeast Library will host a hands-on art

gramming tools to build and program your first robot. Space is limited. Appropriate for ages 5-7 and an adult helper. Pre-registration required. Registration is available at capefearmuseum.com/programs. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

One of NC’s most spectacular examexperience for children ages 2-4 and their parples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and DEC MESSY HAND TODDLER ART ents. Exploring a project is the focus of the event enslaved black artisans, for John DilDec. 21, 10am: Toddlers and their adults rather than the end product, so kids will feel the lard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, are invited to enjoy a messy, hands-on art fun and inspiration behind creating. Parents: Let planter and business leader; and his experience where they focus on exploring them wear clothes that can get messy! Registrawife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (1821art materials and processes, rather than on 1907) and their nine children. After the end product. Messy Hands is schedtion is required though it’s a free event; register the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal uled twice a month for children ages 2 to on the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org. Call troops commandeered the house as 4, and each child must be accompanied Krista Dean, 910-798-6368. their headquarters during the occupaby an adult. Everyone should make sure tion of Wilmington. Now a museum, it foto wear clothes that can get messy. cuses on history and the design arts and Messy Hands is free but space is offers tours, changing exhibitions and an limited and advance registration informative look at historic preservation in LITTLE EXPLORERS is required for each session. Register on Thurs. and Sat., 10am: Meet your friends in action.910-251-3700. bellamymansion.org. the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org. Krista Museum Park for fun hands-on activities! 503 Market St. Dean at 910-798-6368 or Raquel Fava at Enjoy interactive circle time, conduct excit910-798-6365. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE ing experiments, and play games related to Military Cutoff Rd. 18th century Burgwin-Wright House Mua weekly theme. Perfect for children ages seum in the heart of Wilmington’s Historic AFTER CHRISTMAS CAMP 3 to 6 and their adult helpers every Friday. District, is the oldest museum house in NC, Dec 27-29: Coastal Athletics offers three Free! Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St. restored with 18th and 19th century decor day all-skills camp.Ages 7-12 welcome! and gardens. Colonial life is experienced HALYBURTON LITTLE EXPLORERS Baseball and softball. Price is $40/day for Discover nature through stories, songs, through historical interpretations in kitchthose staying from 8am-noon. $120 (3 days) hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your en-building and courtyard. 3rd/Market St. Extend your stay from 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm children will delight in the many nature Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. 910for $20! (910)-452-5838 or www.coastalaththemes we explore each month. Space is 762-0570. www.burgwinwrighthouse.com. letics.net. Coastal Athletics, 2049 Corporate limited and pre-registration is required for Dr., South CAPE FEAR MUSEUM these popular programs. Hello HibernaSee NC through the eyes of WilmingtonNHC YEAR ROUND CAMP tionon Web Activity # 306038 Thurs., 12/14, born photographer Hugh MacRae Morton Jan 2-5: All skills camp, ages 7-12 wel10-11am; Fri., 12/15, 10-11am. Halyburton (1921-2006). His captivating images will come! Baseball and softball. Price is $140 Park,4099. S. 17th St. be featured in the traveling exhibit “Phofor four days for those staying from 8amtographs by Hugh Morton: An Uncommon AERODYNAMICS FUN noon. Extend your stay’til 4:30 pm for $20/ Kids ages 6 to 13 are invited to build and Retrospective,” is now open at Cape Fear test a variety of paper airplanes at this free Museum. The exhibit is on loan from the library program. They’ll learn about the four UNC Library’s North Carolina Collection forces of flight (lift, weight, thrust, and drag) Photographic Archives and will be on view as they observe the performance of differthrough September 2018. To create Photoent airplane designs. How far will it fly? How graphs by Hugh Morton, Stephen Fletcher, accurately will it land? Will it loop-the-loop? photographic archivist at UNC Library’s No registration is required for this free proNorth Carolina Collection Photographic Argram for kids ages 6 to 13. Meaghan Weiner chives, selected images from the library’s at mweiner@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6385. collection of Morton’s estimated quartermillion negatives and transparencies. Shows experiences as a photojournalist; as a soldier in the Pacific Theater during World War II; and as owner and operator of Grandfather Mountain tourist attraction in Linville. Exhibits more than 50 images feature dozens of his lesser known or unpublished photographs, as well as some classics. Will feature brochures, postcards and prints. CF Museum, 814 Market St.

EXPO 216

Newly opened exhibit features end-of-life issues. Enter Grandma’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. Wed.-Sun., noon-6pm. 216 N Front St, www.expo216. com

kids stuff STORY EXPLORERS

Cameron Art Museum, every Thurs., 1010:30am: Admission by donation. Bring your infant, toddler or preschooler for story time, gallery exploration and an art project! georgia@cameronartmuseum.org for more info. 3201 S. 17th St.

day! (910)-452-5838 or www.coastalathletics.net. Coastal Athletics, 2049 Corporate Dr., South PITCHING/CATCHING CLINIC

Jan. 6, Coastal Athletics’ Pitching and Catching Clinic! Ages 7-12 welcome. Baseball. $60, 9am-noon. (910)-452-5838. www.coastalathletics.net

MESSY HANDS TODDLER ART

Dec. 21, 10am: Toddlers and their adults are invited to enjoy a messy, hands-on art experience where they focus on exploring art materials and processes, rather than on the end product. Messy Hands is scheduled twice a month for 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. Messy Hands is free but space is limited and advance registration is required for each session. Please register on the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org or by calling 910-7986303. For more information contact Krista Dean at 910-798-6368 or Raquel Fava at 910-798-6365. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

PRESCHOOL MATH AND SCIENCE

Jan. 11, 10am: Play, learn and explore math and science concepts at this interactive storytime, which includes hand-on science experiments and exploration stations. The program is designed for children ages 3 to 6, and each child must be accompanied by an adult. Free, but space is limited and preregistration is required on New Hanover County Public Library’s calendar at

SATURDAY STORY HOUR

Miss Shannon will lead interactive story hours for kids ages 3-6 on the first and third Saturdays of May at the Main Library in downtown Wilmington. Saturday Story Hour is free and no pre-registration is needed. Opens with a picture book and end with a project or activity at the end, and include time to play, learn, and laugh in between. Each child should bring a participating adult. Shannon Vaughn: 910-798-6303. svaughn@nhcgov.com. 201 Chestnut St.

FRENCH PLAYGROUP

Thurs., 10am: Chantez! Jouez! Rencontrez des nouveaux amis! Sing, play, and meet new friends at French Playgroup at the main library! Informal hour where young kids and parents/caregivers can hear and try out some French words. Free and no advance registration is needed. Main Library Children’s Room at 910-798-6303 or sdemarco@nhcgov.com. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.

LEGO MINDSTORM ROBOTS

Dec. 20-21, 2pm: $10 per group for members, $23 per group for nonmembers (up to 4 people per robot). Families of young engineers and scientists will work together and bring LEGO to life. Use kid friendly pro-

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www.nhclibrary.org. Krista Dean (kdean@ nhcgov.com) at 910-798-6368. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

outdoors/recreation NC BIRDING TRAIL

Ea. mo. we explore different sites along the NC Birding Trail in the Coastal Plain. Each hike will be appx 2 mi. Transportation from Halyburton Park included. Wrightsville Beach Thurs 12/21, 8am-noon; ages: 16 and up. Halyburton Park, 4099. S. 17th St.

BLACKWATER ADVENTURE CRUISE

Two-hour cruise up the Northeast Cape Fear River, still largely unchanged and underpopulated as it was when Wilmington was colonized in the late 1600’s. Cruising through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the Bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation. A narrated cruise based of the history and ecology of the area. 910-338-3134. ILM Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

HARBOR CRUISE

Weds, 3pm: Set sail on the Shamrock for a cruise around Wrightsville Beach’s Harbor Island—the island which separates the barrier island of the beach proper from the mainland. Locations of historical, ecological and cultural note will be featured. Learn what year the first buildings on Wrightsville Beach were built. Additionally, learn about the different types of marsh grasses, shorebirds, and fish we have teeming in the water surrounding the beach. RSVP rqd. $15-$25. WB Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

BLACK RIVER NATURE CRUISE

Sightseeing for four hours on the Black River w/scenic wilderness, narration on the plant and wildlife, and a river that appears almost as it did to the early explorers! Families, nature enthusiasts and photographers alike will enjoy the slow-moving, amber-colored waters, framed by spectacular swamp forests highlighted with seasonal wildflowers and relict old-growth cypress trees. Led by Capt. J.N. Maffitt w/narrator Andy Wood, coastal ecologist and author. Pack snacks, lunch, and drinks, or purchase a meal from Anne Bonny’s Bar & Grill at our barge before the tour. $40-$50: http://cfrboats.com/ cruises/#blackriver. Foot of Water/Dock sts.

OLD MAN WINTER FENCING TOURNEY

Jan. 6, Fencing Tournament with Open Foil at 9:30 am, Open Epee at 12:30 pm and 40+ Epee at 3:30 pm. Spectators free and welcome. Tileston Gym at St. Mary, 5th and Ann

SPIRIT OF THE HOLIDAY CRUISE

Dec. 22, 6pm: Cruise the Cape Fear River while enjoying the sites, sounds and tastes of Christmas. Christmas cocktails available, Christmas carols performed by local musicians & some Christmas lights along the Historic Riverwalk. Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

ART CLASSES

Lois DeWitt art classes, $100/4 (two-hour). Meditative Drawing: Wed., 10am and 2pm. • Thurs. and Fri, 5pm: Art it up—Nice and Easy! • Sat. 10am: Learn how to pour color

SANTA’S SLAY POWER YOGA

Dec. 24, 12:30pm: Do the holiday feasts make you feel like your on Santa’s naughty list? Then, join Addie Jo for this power yoga, detox class! Santa’s Slay is a fun and energetic combination of yoga asana and HIIT (high intensity interval training). With an upbeat holiday playlist, not only will you rock out in the Christmas spirit, but you will also beat the feast! Regular class packages and rates apply. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr., #200

NEW BASIC YOGA CLASSES

At the Midtown YMCA are happening now! Join me on Tuesday nights from 6-7 pm for a challenging and relaxing way to end your day. See the schedule for a full list of classes. Free with YMCA Membership or $10 drop-in. Temple Baptist Church Activity Center, 709 George Anderson Dr.

SIMPLE DIVORCE CLINIC

Dec. 21, 2:30pm: Legal Aid of North Carolina offers this free informational clinic for people filing divorce actions. Please preregister on the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org or by calling 910798-6301. Participants at the clinic will learn the requirements for filing a simple divorce action in North Carolina, and how to complete the paperwork necessary to represent themselves in court. They will receive an information packet. A brief question and answer session with a virtual attorney will conclude each clinic. Natasha Francois at 910-798-6306 or nfrancois@nhcgov.com. Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.

DEC. 21 SIMPLE DIVORCE CLINIC Life changes, like ending a relationship, can be difficult. The New Hanover County Library and Legal Aid are hosting a clinic to help folks work through the rigamorale of the big “D” word: divorce. Legal Aid will host a Q&A session with an attorney and participants will learn about all the necessary paperwork to fill out and how to represent themselves in court. For more information contact Natasha Francois at 910-798-6306. Register on the calendar: www.nhclibrary.org.

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: www.alunaworks.com. Aluna Works, 603 Castle St.

A VERY MARY JINGLE FLOW

Dec. 24. 9am: In the darkest time of year, there emerges a light! Feasts, family, and celebration during the midwinter season remind of us of the joy, gratitude, and abundance that we can have in our lives. Let’s take time to celebrate together because the days are now getting lighter, and with the

light, the seeds and intentions we have planted deep within our hearts will begin to take root and grow into fruition throughout the coming year. Let us shine the light of gratitude into every aspect of our being and our lives so we never forget the abundance that already exists within each of us. Merry music and an upbeat vinyasa flow will add to the revelry of this Christmas Eve celebration for all! Family, friends, children, and all levels are welcome. Regular pricing and class packages apply. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr., #200 FINISH IT: YOUR LIBRARY

Jan. 3, 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. This library group is free and no reservations are needed. Annice Sevett at asevett@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

ENVISION THE NEW YEAR W/RACHAEL GOOLSBY

Jan. 1, 1pm: Fresh new year giving us the opportunity to reflect upon the journey made and set intentions for the journey ahead. Making changes in our life and sticking to them is much more realistic when our vision is based in self-actualized truths. Special 20-hr. class to create a clear picture of the life you’d like to manifest. We will ground ourselves in the depth of who we already are, through contemplation,

POWER YOGA

Join us for power yoga on Sundays at Capt’n Bill’s, 3pm. Drop in fee of $8. Bring your own mat. 4240 Market St.

I’LL BE OM FOR CHRISTMAS

Dec. 24, 10am-noon: All levels yoga practice w/JJ Cook, Eryt200/Ryt500 at Blockade Runner, WB. $40. Space limited; portion of proceeds benefit Puerto Rico Recovery. Online registration required: whiterabbittrips. com.

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classes

shapes and define them with drawing. • Mon, 10am: Stamp or Stencil Painting. • Beginning or advanced students. • Tues, 10am and 2pm: Colored Pencil with Oil Pastel Layering. All materials provided. www. free-online-art-classes.com (click on Wilmington Art Classes). 910-547-8115 or loislight@bellsouth.net

encore | december 20 - december 26, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 41

pranayama, journaling and asana. Take flight through a full spectrum of yoga poses, including basic hand balances—dive in and face your fears, acknowledge your wishes and cultivate the courage to move toward your goals! As you find rest at the end of class, let it all sink in and become embedded, leaving you with a clear vision for the year ahead. Please bring your journals and

keeping your child active, learning, and focused on the importance of developing a lifestyle that includes fitness and wellness. Caretakers are welcome to attend with their children and join the fun! Classes are free with YMCA membership or $10 drop-in. Express YMCA, 11 S. Kerr Avenue SIMPLE DIVORCE CLINIC

Dec. 21, 2:30pm: Legal Aid of North Carolina offers this free informational clinic for people filing divorce actions. Preregister on calendar: www.nhclibrary.org or 910-798-6301. Participants at the clinic will learn the requirements for filing a simple divorce action in North YMCA Express is hosting a kids bootcamp and Carolina, and how to complete the payoga clinic during holiday break, Dec 21, 4:25 perwork necessary to represent themp.m. Kids will learn to focus on the importance of selves in court. They will receive an packet. A brief question fitness and wellness in their lives and how it helps information and answer session with a VIRTUAL relieve stress and improve quality of life. Plus, attorney will conclude each clinic. their caretakers can join in on the fun with them. Legal Aid of North Carolina is a statewide nonprofit law firm that provides Admission is $10 for drop-in. The Y Express is free legal services in civil matters to low-income people in order to enlocated at 11 S. Kerr Avenue. sure equal access to justice and to remove legal barriers to economic opportunity. 866pen. All levels. Good for 2 hours Continuing 210-5262 or www.legalaidnc.org. Education through Yoga Alliance. $25 adv. STRESS REDUCTION CLASS reg.; $30 same day reg. Longwave Yoga, Jan. 3, 6pm: Mindfulness-Based Stress 203 Racine Dr., #200 Reduction (MBSR) teaches meditation and

DEC. 21: KIDS BOOTCAMP

KIDS BOOTCAMP

gentle yoga to cultivate awareness, reduce Dec. 21, 4:25pm: Kids Boot Camp / Yoga stress and create a greater sense of peace is a 45-minute long class that focuses on and well-being. If you’re tired of your racing heart and mind keeping you up at night, with feeling anxious and over2018 is almost here and allhere through town the townstruggling 2018 is almost and the all through whelmed, feel you’ve lost yourself in the chaos of your life, come to the free orientaFor sold signs and inventory down… Foreverywhere sold signs everywhere and inventory down… tion to check out the class. You’ll learn how to relax your body, calm your mind chatter, 2018 is almost here and all through the town 2018 is almost here and all through the town With wonderful clients and growing each day each daycultivate more peace and joy, and start livWitheverywhere wonderful clients and growing 2018 issigns almost here and all through the town For sold and inventory down… ing your life more mindfully and intentional2018 is almost here and all through the town For sold signs everywhere and inventory down… Sold Buy the clients know we doknow what wedo say… ly. People take an MBSR course for reasons Sold Buy the clients we what we say… 2018 isalmost almost here Sea and through the town 2018 isSea here andall all through the town For sold signs everywhere and inventory down… ForFor sold and inventory down… that include stress, anxiety, depression, soldsigns signseverywhere everywhere and inventory down… For sold signs everywhere and inventory down… With wonderful clients and growing each day chronic pain, GI distress, chronic illness, With wonderful wonderful clients clients and and growing growing each each day day fatigue, heart disease, insomnia, and grief/ With With the marketing strategies used by so few With the marketing strategies used by so few Sold Buy the Sea clients know we doeach what we say… With wonderful clientsknow and day With wonderful clients andgrowing growing each day loss. The class is taught by Jen Johnson, Sold Buy the Sea clients we do what we say… With wonderful clients and growing each day Buy the Sea know we what say… Sold Sold Buy the Sea Realty has the right agents for you… Sold the Sea Realty has the right agents for you… mindfulness teacher, coach and licensed Sold Buy theBuy Seaclients clients know we dodo what we we say… Sold Buy the Sea clients know we do what we say… SoldWith Buythe themarketing Sea clients know weused do what wefew say… counselor. Jen has been teaching mindstrategies by so fulness for over 30 years. Free orientation With the marketing strategies used by so few With the marketing strategies used by so few With the marketing strategies used by so for fewyou… Sold Buyheard the Sea Realty has as thewe right agents January 3 6pm. The class begins January And they us exclaim put up the sign And they heard us exclaim as we put up the sign With the marketing strategies used by so few Sold Buy the Sea Realty hasthe theright right agents for you… Sold Buy theSea SeaRealty Realty strategies has agents With the marketing used byfor soyou… few 10. Meets Wed., 6-8pm, and Sat., Feb. 17, Sold Buy the has the right agents for you… thepacking Sea has the right agents for you… just fine…. YouSold canBuy start today the market’s just fine…. You canRealty start packing today the market’s 9 -3pm. Reg. limited and required. McKay Sold Buy the Sea Realty has the right agents for you… And they heard us exclaim as we put up the sign Healing Arts, 4916 Wrightsville Ave. And they heard us exclaim as we put up the sign

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CRYSTAL WATERCOLOR PAINTING

Jan. 7, 2pm: In this Workshop, the soothSEASON! ing energy of crystals and the therapeutic nature of painting merge together as loWISHING YOU THE BEST HOLIDAY SEASON! TO ALL OF OUR PAST AND FUTURE CLIENTS TO ALL OF OUR PAST AND FUTURE CLIENTS WISHING YOU THE BEST HOLIDAY SEASON! cal artist and Longwave instructor, Addie

WISHING YOU THE BEST HOLIDAY SEASON! TO ALLOF OF OUR PAST AND FUTURE CLIENTS TO ALL OUR PAST AND FUTURE CLIENTS WISHING YOU THE BEST HOLIDAY WISHING YOU THE BEST HOLIDAY SEASON! TO ALL OF OF OUR PAST AND FUTURESEASON! CLIENTS TO ALL OUR PAST AND FUTURE CLIENTS TO TO ALL ALL OF OF OUR OUR PAST PAST AND AND FUTURE FUTURE CLIENTS CLIENTS

Jo, guides you through painting a picture of your very own crystal. By showing you specific drawing and painting techniques, you will leave this Workshop inspired by not only the beautiful crystal you are painting, but also the amazing piece of art you will create! If you have a favorite crystal, feel free to bring it with you to this Workshop as inspiration for your painting. Otherwise, all materials will be provided. ost: $25 advance registration; $30 same day registration. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr., #200 C HOMESCHOOL BEGINNING CLASSES

Jan. 10, 1:30pm: Cape Fear Fencing Association 8 week beginning fencing class for homeschool students starts January 10th at 1:30 pm in the basement of the Tileston gym. Class will meet for approximately 1 hour on Wednesdays. All fencing equipment provided, students should wear loose fitting clothing and sneakers. Class covers history, footwork, bladework, tactics, and rules, Olympic Fencing history, and finish with an in class tournament Appropriate for ages 8 - 18. Cost is $40 plus a $10 membership to USA Fencing good until July 31, 2018. Taught by Internationally accredited instructor whose students have won gold medals at world championships. Tileston Gym at St. Mary, 5th and Ann

E-RESOURCES CLASS

Jan. 10, 3pm: Bring your smartphone, tablet, or eReader to Northeast Library, and get your device set up to read and listen to books, browse magazines, and view films. All of this is free with your New Hanover County Public Library card! This workshop on eResources at New Hanover County Public Library is free but space is limited, so please register on the calendar at www. nhclibrary.org or by calling 910-798-6371. Make sure to bring your device, cords, and library card with you. Annice Sevett at asevett@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

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 Center, 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

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get them every Wednesday

Mike Chappell Park (in the south side of the can significantly reduce family stress and park across from the tennis courts), 10amimprove quality of care. Advance directives 2pm. supplied so healthcare instructions can be legally documented. Jason: 910-796-7943. FRIDAY NIGHT MAGIC jason.clamme@lcfh.org. Format of Magic: The Gathering tournaments, held on Friday nights in gaming stores and associations all across the world. They are designed to be a beginner-friendly introduction to organized play. Standard WILMINGTON FENCING CLUB format. $6 fee paid towards prize support Adults meet Tues/Thurs, 7:45-9pm, and for event. Prizes are a pack per win and also Youth meet Wed, 6:45-7:45pm. Class is if you complete all 4 rounds. Event begins open to the community, beginners welat 7pm, reg. begins at 6pm. Arrive early for come, and all equipment is provided! Sesevent reg. Free play, $6 entry fee first FNM sions are 6 weeks long and the cost is just Free. Cape Fear Games, 4107 Oleander $5 per class! Fencing incorporates agility, Dr., Ste D. strength, coordination, balance, and timPOKEMON LEAGUE ing. In fencing, physical ability is just as On Sunday evening learn to play the Pokeimportant as having a strong mental edge. mon Trading Card game, battle and trade in Competitors of a fencing match wear prothe video games, or enjoy the store’s Poketective gear including a jacket, glove, and mon Go Pokestop. Ages are welcome to our head gear. Sport of fencing features three family friendly environment. www.facebook. different levels, which are categorized by com/groups/CFGPokemon. Cape Fear the type of weapon used in each level. The Games, 4107 Oleander Dr., Ste D weapons used include the epee, foil, and the saber. Fencing is an aerobically chal- BIRTH CIRCLE Every 3rd Sat. come for our Birth Circle, lenging sport. In order to condition one’s something always different every month. body, initial fencing training consists of Check out website for more details of what challenging conditioning exercises. Exwe have in store this month & exact time of press YMCA, 11 S. Kerr Ave. each event! www.thebumpandbeyond.com. NAACP WINTER MEETING Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave. Thurs, Dec. 14, 6-8pm at Mt. Olive AME

clubs/notices

ing out to purchase our high quality plants OLD MAN WINTER FENCING TOURNAMENT Jan. 6, 9:30am: Open Foil at 9:30 am, Open grown by our participants. 100% of the Epee at 12:30 pm and 40+ Epee at 3:30 pm. proceeds go back into the Ability Garden. Spectators free and welcome. Tileston Gym Heather Kelejian, Ability Garden Director, at St. Mary, 5th and Ann hkelejian@nhcgov.com 910-798-7682. NHC Arboretum, 6206 Oleander Dr.

LA LECHE LEAGUE

culinary

NHC HAZWAGON

FREE BREWERY TOURS AND TASTINGS

photo courtesy of Amber Russell

Church, 1007 Wright Street, Wilmington. CHRISTIAN MYSTICISM We explore God using the methods and The meeting will include a review of 2017 guidance of Moses, Jesus, the prophets and plans for 2018, followed by a fellowship and a rich sampling of delightful saints inpotluck dinner. Members and friends are including Theresa of Avila, Meister Eckhart vited to attend. 910-765-0102 or email nhcand Thomas Aquinas. We will meet twice a naacp@gmail.com. Mt. Olive AME Church, month for fellowship, poetry, instruction in 1001 S. 7th St. (corner of 7th & Wright sts). spiritual practices, group meditations and ABILITY GARDEN MONTHLY PLANT SALE playful spiritual fun. First and third SunDec. 16, 9am: Miss the Ability Garden’s days of each month, 2pm. Parking on 15th Monthly Plant Sale! Our stock includes; St. Respond to me, John Evans, at insightNative Plants, Fall vegetables, herbs and builders@gmail.com. Morning Glory Coffeehouseplants. Please support this unique house, 1415 Dawson St. therapeutic gardening program by com-

Sat., 10am, meetings are informal and open to pregnant women, mothers, babies and children. If you have questions or just would FERMENTAL Free tasting every Friday, 6pm. Third Wed. like to meet other breastfeeding mothers, of each month feat. musical and brewing this is the meeting for you. La Leche League talents alongside an open mic night, as Leaders are experienced mothers who have well as the opportunity for homebrewers to breastfed their own babies and who have share, sample, and trade their creations: an been trained and accredited by La Leche evening of beer and an open stage. PA and League International to help mothers and equipment provided. All genres and beer mothers-to-be with all aspects of breaststyles. 4pm, free. www.fermental.net. 910feeding. Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr 821-0362. 7250 Market St. Ave. 3pm, 3:45pm, 4:30pm everyday at Front New Hanover County encourages residents Street Brewery, 9 N. Front St. Learn how we to safely dispose of toxic materials with its brew our beer, meet brewers and get two new mobile collection unit, the HazWagon. free samples. stationed various days at three different locations in New Hanover County to collect PORT CITY FARMERS’ MARKET household hazardous waste and electronics Tues., 5pm: Join us for a wonderful, excitfree of charge. Residents can bring items ing night of fun. Port City Farmer’s Market to the following locations each week: Mon., at Waterline Brewing Co. 100% local, 100% 10am-2pm, at Ogden Park ball fields; Wed., handmade. Shop among some incredible 10am-2pm at Wrightsville Beach Municipal local vendors, artists and farmers. Support Complex in the Farmers’ Market field by the small businesses in your area. Fresh local recycle center; Fridays at Carolina Beach produce, beef and pork products, sweets,

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pickled items, handcrafted jewelry and art. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Ln. BEER BINGO

Every Thursday night for beer bingo. No charge for cards. Great prizes. Food and drink specials. Capt’n Bills Backyard and Grille, 4240 Market 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 St. 249 N. Front St. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1282390

NEMA LOUNGE AND EATERY

Hump Day Happy Hour: 5-7 pm every Wednesday at NeMa Burger & Pizza Lounge! $5 Angus beef burgers and $2.50 16 oz Buds/Bud Lights. Martini Tastings every Friday and Saturday, 4-8 pm. 5 tastings + one small order of NeMa Fancy Fries, $20/person. NeMa Lounge & Eatery, 225 S. Water St. Chandler’s Wharf

SKYQUEST: FALL CONSTELLATIONS

Show Times: 2pm, 4pm; free for members or with general admission. Experience the Museum’s digital planetarium with a guided tour of tonight’s sky. Discover new and familiar constellations, explore Greek myths, and find the five planets visible in Nov. 2017. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

FARMERS MARKET

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

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.

FREE WINE TASTING

Every Wed. we uncork 5-7pm delicious wines from all over the world. You never know what we have planned for the week, but our weekly newsletter will keep you updated. www.sweetnsavory.cafe/winetasting-wilmington-nc. Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavillion Pl.

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admission or membership. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

tours

INSIDER’S TOUR

Explore the history of community at Cape Fear Museum. Take the Insider’s Tour offered the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10am. Tours are free with admission and include a “behind the scenes” sneak peek. Pre-registration is required: 910-798-4362 or cfmprograms@nhcgov.com. Free w/general

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HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE TOURS

Narrated horse drawn carriage and trolley tours of historic Wilmington feature a costumed driver who narrates a unique adventure along the riverfront and past stately mansions. Market and Water sts. $12/adult, $5/child. (910) 251-8889. www.horsedrawntours.com

GHOST WALK

6:30 & 8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted Wilmington. Nightly tours at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. Admission charge. Water & Market sts. RSVP rqd: 910-794-1866. hauntedwilmington.com

HISTORY WALKING TOUR

A two-hour exploration of downtown Wilm-

TEEN TRANSGENDER SUPPORT GROUP Teens who are grappling with self-care and needs for being transgender or gender nonconforming have a supportive network facilitated by TR Nunley and Jamie Alper. The group will focus on mental-health needs unique to adoloescents 13-to-18-years-old. Topics include one’s own gender, discrimination, bullying, coming out, violence, mood stability, and anxiety, among other topics. Folks can contact Nova Swanstorm at Delta Behavioral Clinic at 910-442-8480. ington with author Dan Camacho! A $10 donation is suggested. .bellamymansion. org or email info@bellamymansion.org with any questions. Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market St. BELLAMY MANSION

Guided tours start on the hour, as well as self-guided tours, which start at any time. Mondays is only self-guided tours.* Follow curved oyster-shell paths through our lush Victorian garden shaded by 150-year-old magnolia trees. Climb the stairs to the elegant main entrance surrounded by soaring columns and gleaming windows. Hear the stories of the Bellamy family, as well as those of the free and enslaved black artisans who built the home and crafted intricate details throughout the house. Know that you are walking through history. Bellamy Mansion

Museum, one of NCs most spectacular examples of Antebellum architecture. Adults $12; senior and military discount, $10; students, $6; children under 5, free. Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St.

support groups WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP

Middle school and high-school students: Wilmington Pride and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation have joined together to create and facilitate a youth group for children/youth (middle school and high school) who are LGBTQIA, plus straight allies. A safe space for kids to talk about orientation, gender, racial equality, political consequences, religion, self harm and selfcare. Needed: youth facilitators, especially those who are trained to work with kids, and speakers to talk about important topics. Meets Thurs., 7:30pm, UU Congregation of Wilmington, 4313 Lake Ave, (across from Roland Grise Middle School). Sue Graffius: dre@uufwilmington.org). TEEN TRANSGENDER SUPPORT GROUP

Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Support Group, free, facilitated by TR Nunley and Jamie Alper. This group will focus on the mental health needs unique to transgender and gender non-conforming adolescents (13 years old -18 years old). Topics covered will include but are not limited to: understanding one’s own gender, bullying, discrimination, and violence, family dynamics, coming out, being misgendered, handling invasive personal questions from others, safety and safe spaces, anxiety and mood stability. Nova Swanstrom first at (910) 4428480 x3009 with Delta Behavioral Clinic. CELEBRATE RECOVERY

Life Community Church, located inside Independence Mall, will have a recovery meeting every Monday evening at 6:30 pm starting with fellowship followed by a large group meeting at 7pm. Support groups for men and women follow at 8 pm. The meeting is in the Extension located across from Branches bookstore and the church auditorium. Jodie: 910-547-8973, 791-3859 or Lifecc.com. 3500 Oleander Dr.

EXPECTING MAMA’S CIRCLE

Sat, noon: Chat with other pregnant mamas who are going through the same thing as you! Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator,

Second Skin Vintage

true vintage, gifts for her, gifts for him 615 Castle Street • 910.239.7950 • www.secondskinwilmington.com

Breastfeeding USA counselor, and Postpartum Doula, Jess Zeffiro will moderate a free Pregnancy Meetup Group. Expectant mothers are invited to pop into the group at any time to share their stories, ask questions, and connect with great area resources. Share stories and have any pregnancy and birth related questions answered in a supportive environment. The Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave. CHADD

Wilmington Area CHADD meets on the 2nd Monday of every month from 7-9pm at the Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B. This free support group is open to a growing group of parents, grandparents and individuals affected by AD/HD who understand what it takes to face its daily challenges. Free. Pine Valley United Methodist Church 3788 Shipyard Blvd., bldg B. WilmingtonCHADD.org

ANXIETY / OCD SUPPORT GROUP

Dec. 7, 7pm: 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

WILMINGTON MS SUPPORT GROUP

Dec. 14, 7pm: Wilmington MS Support Group will not hold its regular meeting in December due to our annual Christmas social. Regular monthly meetings will resume on Thursday, January 11. New Hanover Regional Medical Center Campus, 2131 S. 17th St.

PFLAG

First Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.

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 Regional Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20)

Your life in the first half of 2018 will be like a psychological boot camp that’s designed to beef up your emotional intelligence. Here’s another way to visualize your oncoming adventures: They will constitute a friendly nudge from the cosmos, and push you to be energetic and ingenious in creating the kind of partnerships you want for the rest of your long life. As you go through your interesting tests and riddles, be on the lookout for glimpses of what your daily experience could be like in five years if you begin now to deepen your commitment to love and collaboration.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

You’ll soon have a chance to glide out into the frontier. I suggest you pack your bag of tricks. Bring gifts with you, too, just in case you must curry favor in the frontiers where the rules are a bit loose. How are your improvisational instincts? Be sure they’re in top shape. How willing are you to summon spontaneity and deal with unpredictability and try impromptu experiments? I hope you’re very willing. This may sound like a lot of work, but I swear it will be in a good cause. If you’re well-prepared as you wander in the borderlands, you’ll score sweet secrets and magic cookies. Here’s more good news: Your explorations will position you well to take advantage of the opportunities that will become available throughout 2018.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Nowadays it’s not unusual to see male celebrities who shave their heads: Bruce Willis, Dwayne Johnson, Seal, Tyrese Gibson, and Vin Diesel. But in the 20th century, the bare-headed style was rare. One famous case was actor Yul Brynner. By age 30 he’d begun to go bald. In 1951, for his role as the King of Siam in the Broadway play “The King and I,” he decided to shave off all his hair. From then on, the naked-headed look became his trademark as he plied a successful acting career. So he capitalized on what many in his profession considered a liability. He built his power and success by embracing an apparent disadvantage. I recommend you practice your own version of this strategy in 2018. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to begin.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

In the Northern Hemisphere, where 88 percent of the world’s population resides, this is a quiescent time for the natural world. Less sunlight is available, and plants’ metabolisms slow down as photosynthesis diminishes. Deciduous trees lose their leaves; even many evergreens approach dormancy. Yet, in the midst of this stasis, Cancerian, you are beginning to flourish. Gradually at first, but with increasing urgency, you’re embarking on an unprecedented phase of growth. I foresee 2018 will be your Year of Blossoming.

tors syndiCate

Virgo, because I think it’s an apt metaphor for one of 2018’s important themes: A resource you have underestimated or neglected will be especially valuable— and may even redefine your understanding of what’s truly valuable.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

In fairy tales, characters are often rewarded for acts of kindness. They may be given magical objects that serve as protection, like cloaks of invisibility or shoes that enable them to flee trouble. Or the blessings they receive may be life-enhancing, like enchanted cauldrons that provide a never-ending supply of delicious food or musical instruments that have the power to summon delightful playmates. I bring this up, Libra, because I suspect a similar principle will be very active in your life during 2018. You’ll find it easier and more natural than usual to express kindness, empathy, and compassion. If you consistently capitalize on this predilection, life will readily provide you with the resources you need.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Like all of us, you go through mediocre phases when you’re not functioning at peak efficiency. I suspect in 2018 you will experience fewer of the blah times. We will see a lot of you at your best. Even more than usual, you’ll be an interesting catalyst who energizes and ripens collaborative projects. You’ll demonstrate why the sweet bracing brightness needs the deep dark depths—and vice versa. You’ll help allies open doors that they can’t open by themselves. The rest of us thank you in advance!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

The blunt fact is that you can’t be delivered from the old demoralizing pattern that has repeated and repeated itself -- until you forgive yourself completely. For that matter, you probably can’t move on to the next chapter of your life story until you compensate yourself for at least some of the unnecessary torment you’ve inflicted on yourself. Now here’s the good news: 2018 will be an excellent time to accomplish these healings.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

In 2018 one of your primary missions will be to practice what you preach; to walk your talk; to be ambitious and masterful in all the ways a soulful human can and should be ambitious and masterful. Live up to your hype in the coming months, Capricorn! Do what you have promised! Stop postponing your dreams! Fulfill the noble expectations you have for yourself! Don’t be shy about using exclamation points to express your visions of what’s right and good and just!

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

If you’ve had an unfulfilled curiosity about genealogy or your ancestors or the riddles of your past, 2018 will be a favorable time to investigate. Outof-touch relatives will be easier to locate than usual. Lost heirlooms, too. You may be able to track down and make use of a neglected legacy. Even family secrets could leak into view—both the awkward and charming kinds. If you think you have everything figured out about people you grew up with and history of where you came from, you’re in for surprises.

Years ago, when I started my career as a horoscope writer, my editor counseled me: “Always give priority to the Big Three: Romance, money, and power are what people care about most.” After a few months, he was disgruntled to realize I wrote about how to cultivate psychological health and nourish spiritual aspirations as much as his Big Three. He would have replaced me if he could have found another astrology writer whose spelling and grammar were as good as mine. But his edict traumatized me a bit. Even today, I worry I don’t provide enough help concerning the Big Three. Fortunately, that’s not relevant now, since I can sincerely declare 2018 will bring you chances to become more powerful by working hard on your psychological health. And to grow wealthier by cultivating your spiritual aspirations. And to generate more love by being wise and ethical in your quest for money and power.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

Most of us regard our ring fingers as the least important of our digits. What are they good for? Is there any activity for which they’re useful? But our ancestors had a stronger relationship with them. There was a folk belief that a special vein connected the fourth finger on the left hand directly to the heart. That’s why a tradition arose around the wedding ring being worn there. It may have also been a reason why pharmacists regarded their fourth fingers as having an aptitude for discerning useful blends of herbs. I bring this up,

What binds you? What keeps you closed down and locked up? I urge you to ponder such questions, Pisces. Once you get useful answers, the next step will be to meditate on how you can undo the binds. Fantasize and brainstorm about the specific actions you can take to unlock and unclose yourself. This project will be excellent preparation for the opportunities the coming months will make available to you. I’m happy to announce 2018 will be your personal Year of Liberation.

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