December 27, 2017

VOL. 35 / PUB. 25 DECEMBER 27, 2017 - JANUARY 9, 2018 FREE • encorepub.com

on the move

PHOTO BY TISH YVETTE

Khalisa Rae Williams inspires a woman’s world with debut play and a slew of projects for 2018

HODGEPODGE Vol. 35/Pub. 24

December 27, 2017-January 9, 2018

WWW.ENCOREPUB.COM

Friday, May Edition!

6 - 11 a.m.

Double

ON THE MOVE, PG. 21 Khalisa Rae Williams is a poet, playwright and all around prolific writer who has taken off in the creative arts and is (literally and figuratively) building space for women and femme voices of Wilmington to be heard. Her next venture is the debut of her play, “The 7 Deadly Sins of Being a Woman,” at Cape Fear Playhouse on January 7.

Read our interview with her on page 21.

ON THE COVER

event of the week

Dear loyal readers, Welcome to encore’s end-of-the-year double edition. What does that mean? Well, everything you read inside is slated to take place from December 27 through January 9, which means we won’t be publishing another weekly pub until January 10, 2018.

We appreciate all of you for reading encore and continuing to support our art, music, theatre, dining, and local-living happenings across the Port City. We look forward to serving you in 2018 and beyond!

Happy New Year! -encore staff 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.

Poster by Katie Jones

L

LIVE LOCAL>> Gwenyfar Rohler gets a special surprise for Christmas from caring friends and family. Hint: She can now check one more thing off of her list for 2018!

Photo by Stephen Kienbaum

M

Photo courtesy of Focus Features

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

PGS. 4-5

SALES>

General Manager:

Arson Daily’s been working on narrowing their indi-rock sound since their self-titled debut album in 2016. Their latest EP, “What’s On Your Mind,” reflects such efforts and renewed energy in the studio.

Photo by Kendall Atwater

John Hitt // john@encorepub.com

Sales Manager: Tiffany Wagner // tiffany@encorepub.com

Advertising:

John Hitt // john@encorepub.com Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com

Office Manager: Susie Riddle //

F

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. 19

INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • News of the Weird, pg. 6

OpEd, pg. 7 • Music, pgs. 9-15 • Art, pg. 17 • Film, pg. 19 • Theatre, pg 21 Dining, pgs. 22-27 Extra-Book Review, pg. 28 • Calendar, pgs. 30-45

2 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com

FILM>> Anghus is a fan of Gary Oldman’s Winston Churchill in “Darkest Hour,” a rich history lesson steeped in drama and interesting storytelling. Definitely a film to see over the holidays.

Editor-in-Chief:

Assistant Editor:

<<MUSIC

PG. 9

EDITORIAL>

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

Ticket Central • 910.362.7999 • www.CapeFearStage.com

February 20 & 21 at 8:00 pm

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 3

NEWS>>LIVE LOCAL

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

BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

“M

LOVE AND FRUSTRATION: Gwenyfar Rohler poses with her prized VW bus as she checks off this this restoration project before 2018. Photo by Stephen Kienbaum

y mother used to hang an image of the sun up on the Winter Solstice,” Jock comments almost every year on the shortest day, “I guess to coax it into coming back.”

all my frustration with my bus project. After I apologized (and, here again, Dave if you are reading this, I am very sorry for my behavior), I had a heart to heart with myself that went along the lines of:

to get enough of the interior installed to drive. The middle section of the ceiling had to be attached in order to put in the tie-downs to keep the camper top from popping up in traffic.

For many people, this time of year focuses on warmth and light of family and friends, but I have a habit of dwelling in the darkness of my own shortcomings. My ongoing struggle at 37 still looks like something out of a coming-of-age novel: learning gratitude, patience, forbearance, good manners, and to think before I speak.

“Don’t just act like this and then apologize—that’s not the way you want to treat your friends or go through the world. Clearly if you are this upset about something, you need to fix the thing you are upset about.”

John Wolfe had begun the project with me, so I thought, Maybe we could finish it together? We embarked on a couple of attempts at getting interior pieces installed— some were more successful than others.

So, I needed to move the VW bus restoration project forward.

“That, my friend, is what rick-rack trim is for,” I commented to Elise and pointed at a seam gap. “Hot glue, trim and no one will ever know it is there.”

A couple of months ago I was incredibly rude to friends who stopped by the bookstore to chat about VWs. Poor Dave, especially, who is a lovely person and just wanted to talk shop got the brunt end of

But how?

Progress came to a halt in early spring with the expenses of renovating the bed and breakfast. By fall I had less money, and less time (if that’s even possible). Maybe I would devote one day a week to trying

4 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

She laughed at me and nodded. But of course that might be a few years off.

“So is there an interior panel that is going to go on this door?” Steve Gallian

reasonably inquired. The locksmith extraordinaire had come over to make the doors work.

“Right now we are aiming for driving,” I explained. “In a few years, yes, there will be door panels, and I will ask you to come back and help me reinstall the lock then.

But, for now, we just have to be able to drive safely, and closing the door is an essential piece.”

Steve grinned at me and turned back to the door. He has been restoring his own pick-up truck for years, so he understands the desire to drive. I had all the pieces for the door locks but they just would not go together in any comprehensible way (for me, at least). Whereas when locks see Steve Gallian, they just melt into his hands and start purring like kittens. In

less time than it takes to boil water, Steve had all the doors opening, closing, and the keys working.

Still, there was an incredibly long way to go. I was far from the light at the end of the tunnel. Jock got serious about spending Sunday afternoons with me and the van—which thrilled me. It was exactly why I wanted to undertake the van project in the first place: to spend time in the garage with Jock and work on it together.

One day he looked at me and offered a combined birthday and Christmas present of asking Darrell of Silverlake VW to get the van going. To finish up the last steps, and check our work, as it were. Now, if I have a guru in life, it is Darrell. The man has forgotten more about VW’s than I will ever know. But I embarked on the project to learn—not have someone else do it.

“Are you going to have Darrell check over the van before you drive across country?” Jock asked.

Obviously, the answer was yes.

“Then, let’s start now with having Darrell look at things, and do a few things correctly the first time rather than have your learning curve become an issue in Death Valley,” he offered. “Besides, don’t you want to drive?

Isn’t that the point?”

Among my legion of failings, I have a

hell of a time unbending my prideful spine to accept help from the wonderful group of people surrounding me. But I wanted to drive. I wanted to drive so badly. I wanted to set out in the van, with the dogs and Jock, and have adventures. Watching him crawl around on the floor of the garage one morning, as he fought with the drill and a shock absorber bolt that had bonded with the metal, I asked myself if I wanted to have adventures with Jock while we can, or if this project was going to die in the garage with me?

I was a blithering mess the day Darrell came to pick up the bus on the roll back to take to his shop. He stared at me in total confusion as I babbled on about how every bolt or screw or part he could need was in the bucket in the back. I had spent the morning filling it with everything I could think of from our garage. Now, I know Darrell has the most carefully sorted collection of bolts, washers, nuts, pins, and screws ever imagined. There are hardware stores with less actual hardware than he has. But there I was, and I couldn’t breathe. I could barely form words that were English. The ones I did form were insane.

“This looks a lot like the way you feel when you drop your kid off at college,” Jock observed, “very proud but also very emotional.”

A week later when Jock fell through the floor, I knew he had been right about calling Darrell. If we ever wanted to actually go anywhere (with Jock’s leg situation), there wasn’t going to be any crawling around under the bus on the cold garage floor anytime soon. But enjoying it together, with the dogs, that was more important.

“I can’t breathe.”

“I know. But don’t you want to go get in?”

“Don’t move. I can’t breathe.”

“Darrell had some stuff to do in town today and he dropped it off.”

At the corner of 12th and Princess, I met Jock coming out of Folks Café with a coffee in one hand and leaning on his walker.

“Hey, you want to walk slowly with me?” he invited. I started babbling on about the work I had been doing when we rounded the corner to 11th and Princess. There, parked in front of Full Belly Project, was my bus.

Slowly, we made our way down the street and I could barely focus my vision.

Three years of work. Three years I had waited to drive this bus. But the thing I have had to realize over and over again with the Volkswagen is that it was aptly named. Originally part of the “Strength Through Joy” program in Germany (VW has a complex and checkered history), every aspect of working with a VW requires another person and a second set of hands (for me, at least). The strength and joy is the necessity of other people: their expertise, their generosity, their joy. Darrell is a smart man and he left me some pieces to work on so I wouldn’t feel totally left out of the project (even though he fixed the mess that John Wolfe and I made of the new wiring harness), and the interior is still in pieces in the living room. So there are still plenty of opportunities to learn lots about reassembling the van.

“Just hold me and don’t move.” I buried my face in Jock’s back. “You knew! How did you do it?”

Hopefully, I have learned the hardest lesson, though: to accept the help and say “thank you.”

The week after Jock returned home from the hospital, one of the Full Belly Project volunteers dropped off a trash can of fire wood on the front porch.

“Your presence is requested at Full Belly,” he told me. “The office staff have a Christmas present for you.”

“OK, let me put on a bra and I’ll come over,” I had been trying to catch up on writing deadlines that morning and wasn’t dressed to impress. (But am I ever?)

“It’s called a setup, my dear.”

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 5

that when officers approached the car and Bonnici rolled down her window, a cloud of marijuana smoke poured out, and she was promptly arrested for possession again, along with getting a ticket for using her cellphone while driving. She was able to kill two buds, er, birds, with one stone and appear before the court for both charges.

COMPELLING EXPLANATIONS

A Tesla showroom in South Salt Lake, Utah, was the nexus of four different arrests on Nov. 24, according to the Salt Lake Tribune, in which at least two of the suspects claimed to be part of the Tesla “family.” (The car company is named after inventor Nikola Tesla, not a family owner.)

In the first arrest, a Tesla pulled up behind a Utah Highway Patrol car at a stoplight, and the officer noticed that Driver No. 1 was acting “suspicious.” When the officer pulled him over, the 24-year-old driver said a man he hardly knew gave him the car and keys to three other Teslas. When the officer and driver returned to the showroom, it had been burglarized, but Driver No. 1 explained that the burglary had occurred before he got to the dealership, so he felt he was allowed to take the vehicle and keys.

Area officers were alerted, and 31-year-old Driver No. 2 led troopers on a short chase, until his Tesla’s battery died. Later, Driver

No. 3, 19, was pulled over in West Valley, and finally Driver No. 4, a 27-year-old woman, was stopped at a liquor store and told police a man named Tesla had given her the car. “We are still trying to sort this out,” said South Salt Lake Police spokesman Gary Keller. “We actually have two people claiming their name is Tesla and a family member died and left them these cars. It’s one of those cases where you just have to scratch your head and say, ‘Really?’”

NEWS THAT SOUNDS LIKE A JOKE

Arielle Bonnici, 26, of Huntington, New York, responsibly arrived at the Northport Police Department and Village Justice Court on Dec. 4 to answer a summons issued in May for possession of marijuana.

But before she could even park her car, Bonnici, who was on her phone, attracted the attention of officers by cutting off an unmarked police vehicle and wheeling into the spot reserved for the chief of police. The Long-Islander News reported

Meanwhile, in Newberry, South Carolina, 31-year-old Franklin Dell Hayes of Midlands appeared on Dec. 6 at his trial for his third charge of possession of methamphetamines. As the first day of the trial came to a close, The State reports, Hayes was ordered into custody, but when Newberry County sheriff’s deputies searched him before locking him up, they found ... 4 grams of meth in his pants pocket. Without knowledge of the new meth discovery, the jury sentenced Hayes to nine years in prison.

QUESTIONABLE JUDGMENT

THE VOICES IN OUR HEADS

Popeye’s preferred diet of spinach to pump up his biceps had to be healthier than what a Russian man has been injecting. Kirill Tereshin, 21, from Pyatigorsk in southwestern Russia, concocts a dangerous muscle-enhancing solution of olive oil, lidocaine and benzyl alcohol and injects it into his arm muscles, resulting in “bazooka” arms that doctors say may become paralyzed or even have to be amputated.

Tereshin has so far used 6 liters of the fluid, and his biceps measure 23 inches, but he plans to continue injecting until they reach 27 inches. “I would like to get more than 1 million subscribers on Instagram and to stop working,” Tereshin told the Daily Mail.

He’s considering an offer to become a porn star. “I love to be recognizable.”

with each meal purchase

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

Meat Lover’s Weekend with any Full meal from Jamaica’s 4 Meats, Portion Meal Comfort Zone 2 Side Dishes 20% off Purchase your meal purchase $19.99

6 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Male residents of Ringaskiddy in Ireland have at least one compelling reason to set down roots there: According to local lore, the nearby Pfizer plant, where Viagra is produced, emits “love fumes” that give men free erections. “One whiff and you’re stiff,” bartender Debbie O’Grady told The Times of London. Pfizer, however, disputes the tales, with a spokesperson saying: “Our manufacturing processes have always been highly sophisticated as well as highly regulated.” Still, locals speak of a baby boom after the plant opened in 1998, and men apparently regularly gather near the facility to inhale the fumes.

ANIMAL ANTICS

Dovey the Shar Pei, of Edmond, Oklahoma, might be just a bit jealous of the new baby at his owners’ home. But in a classic passive-aggressive move, he settled on stealing pacifiers. Scott Rogers and his wife noticed that binkies were disappearing, but it wasn’t until Dovey started vomiting and losing weight in early December that they tracked down the lost items. KFOR-TV reports that Dr. Chris Rispoli of Gentle Care Animal Hospital took an X-ray of Dovey’s stomach and saw what he thought were seven to nine pacifiers. But when Rispoli opened up Dovey to remove them, he found 21 binkies. Turns out, Dovey was taking the pacifiers off the kitchen coun-

In Parkland, Washington, state troopers and Pierce County Sheriffs officers responded to a call on Nov. 25 about a man who had stopped his SUV in the middle of an intersection and was waving around an AK-47 and screaming about “lizard people.” The 54-year-old Eatonville man obeyed when officers ordered him to lie on the ground, but resisted being handcuffed until officers tased him. He told them he had “snorted methamphetamine to lose weight” and that President Donald Trump had called his home to warn him that the lizard people were coming and his family members were already being held hostage by the “alpha dragon,” according to The News Tribune. “The lizard people are real,” he told police, explaining that he wanted to attract attention so that his “story could be documented for history.”

YIKES!

Claudell Curry, 82, and his wife, Odell Marie, 83, heard a loud crashing noise as they watched TV in their San Bernardino, California, home on the evening of Dec. 10. Imagine their surprise when it was NOT Santa Claus, but instead a block of ice the size of a car engine, which had torn through their roof and landed on their bed. Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Ian Gregor said about a similar incident in November that the ice might have dropped off a passenger airliner, having formed after a leak in the galley. Neither of the Currys was hurt, but “We shiver every time we think we could have been in bed,” Claudell told The San Bernardino Sun.

! s l a de .com

Tuesday WEDNESday THURSday Social Media Day 1/2 price Free Post a photo of dessert appetizer yourself or your

WHAT COULD GO WRONG?

It was all fun and games until a drunk, naked man and his (also naked) companion crashed into a tree near La Grande, Washington, on Nov. 22. Washington State Patrol spokeswoman Brooke Bova told The Olympian that the couple were engaging in intercourse when the driver missed a curve and left the highway. The woman was hospitalized with broken bones, but her 3-month-old child was unhurt in the backseat. The driver, who has three prior DUI convictions, was charged with felony driving under the influence, vehicular assault and endangering a child.

AWESOME!

417 S College Rd #24, Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 399-2867 Hours Tuesday - Saturday 11:45am - 9:00pm

ter. “We’ve had corn cobs and socks and panties and things like that, but never 21 binkies,” noted Rispoli.

NEWS>>OP-ED

THE IN-BETWEEN:

The transition between death and rebirth

H

BY: MARK BASQUILL

ere we are in “the in-between,” the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Not quite 2018, but not feeling really 2017. This week is an annual reminder of the Chinese term a “bardo” state—the transition between death and rebirth. According to the “Tibetan Book of the Dead,” what we choose in bardo determines what kind of realm a person gets to experience next. All the hell realms, such as the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, are creations of our hatred, anger and misdirected desires. Although we Americans live in the most materially abundant society in history, we seem particularly attracted to the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, with endless cravings that can never be satiated.

Between Zach Hanner’s “The Greatest Gift” at TheatreNOW, watching “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” and enjoying the change of seasons, I reflected with hope on the possibility of positive change. We’re not so bad as a race!

Sure, some of us vote on a tax plan to benefit the rich and kill healthcare options for millions, but, as seen in “The Greatest Gift,” others willingly donate their kidney to a sibling. Sure, some of us see the world like the greedy, grasping, angry, Mr. Potter, from “It’s a Wonderful Life,” but I’m confident there are millions and millions of kind-hearted folks out there, like Linus, who understand the “true meaning of Christmas.”

Still glowing with the holiday spirit and the optimism from seeing fellow travelers in the best possible light, I checked my email to read news from friends and family. What good tidings of great joy had landed in my inbox?

Ah! A baby boy for a cousin!

A planned marriage!

And an invitation to another gathering of several friends to celebrate the arrival of three new lives!

Talk about rebirth.

And, then, I noticed an email from our POTUS 45’s campaign organization.

(I’m still on their email list to get routine updates and requests for support.)

Usually, I dismiss or delete them without

reading. But I opened this one because it’s Christmas, and I really do hold out hope POTUS 45 will one day change and begin to learn what Linus knew 50 years ago. The pre-Christmas email to big-league supporters like me included this classy Christmas message: “You heard it from President Trump from the very beginning: America will once again say ‘Merry Christmas’ just like the good old days. And we’re saying ‘Merry Christmas’ to all of you, our incredibly loyal supporters, with this FLASH SALE on our 24k-gold-plated MAGA Christmas ornaments.”

Best of 2018 Final Voting is Open

So much for my hope of change.

24K-gold-plated MAGA Christmas ornaments? Selling swag for Christmas!

POTUS 45 didn’t listen to Linus! They clearly align with his sister, Lucy, and believe Christmas is “a “commercial racket, run by a big Eastern syndicate.”

Weren’t the money changers kicked out of the temple at some point? Are we making America great again by going back to the good old days when the money-changers ran the temple?

Advocating going back to “the good old days,” isn’t exactly forward-thinking, innovative, growth-oriented, or science-based. (Can I still write “sciencebased”?) Besides, would any of us really want to go back to the “good old days” of Windows ‘95? Or Bon Jovi? Or 8-track tapes? Or public lynchings in the South?

I was really starting to lose the holiday spirit.

Wait, “hope” and “change”?

Didn’t America recently elect a poised, intelligent, caring POTUS to the highest office in the land? And wasn’t that campaign based on “hope” and “change”?

I smiled—my hope restored. The current administration (whether it lasts another week or a full term) is merely a bardo state, a transition between rebirths. Sure, we somehow went from a poised president to the King of Hungry Ghosts. But it’s only a temporary hell.

2018 will give us daily opportunities to change, to recommit to each other and steer away from anger, hatred and greed.

Happy New Year!

e through jan. 16 at encorepub.com encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 7

501-3 Covil Ave. • fitmotraining.com • (910) 782-8848

a NEW YEAR, a NEW YOU Steal of a deal!

GOOD FOR NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY THROUGH JAN. 9! choose your deal...

6 mo. $780 $390 - OR -

12 mo. $1,440 $720

available at encoredeals.com

by rated ted e p o d and mina Owne Harrell, no Of 2018 t Anita core's Bes ner! i n a e in st Tr as Be

There's strength in numbers! Join our group-training program—for all fitness levels. Memberships include: unlimited access to our entire group-training schedule, which includes almost 20 options with top-notch trainers who are equipped to work with you wherever your starting point happens to be!

8 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

ARTS>>MUSIC

DIGGING IN:

Arson Daily finds their sound in indie-rock BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

“A

fter we released our first [selftitled] album [in 2016], we were repeatedly told that all of our songs sounded different from each other,” Arson Daily’s Zach Dunham (vocals, guitar) explains to encore before the new year. “So we made an attempt to create a sound that was easier to identify, and ultimately, more commercially viable.”

Enter: “What’s On Your Mind” (June 2017), a five-song EP collection intended to help narrow Arson Daily’s development and direction in the indie-rock genre.

This three-piece started in 2014 in their hometown of Boone, NC, with Dunham, Quincy Platt (bass) and Adam McLean (drums). The now Raleigh-based Arson Daily will play their latest EP and more at their upcoming show with Onward, Soldiers at Bourgie Nights on January 6.

With their first album—recorded with Split Rail Records in Boone—Dunham says there was a lot of pressure going into the studio. Ultimately, it was a stressful environment to try and work from. “But when we recorded the EP, we had a lot of energy built up from the eagerness to create something new,” he continues.

“You can expect to see a lot of energy and dancing, [too]—from us,” Platt describes of their live shows. “We try to keep energy levels running high for the majority of the set rather than have huge dips in dynamic levels for people to go take cig breaks during the set.”

Though the band’s songwriting is typically a shared effort, Dunham will write some lyrics and melody, and then together the band will expound upon those ideas. They each tend to write their own parts for their respective instrument.

“But sometimes we will allow another member to guide us into playing something different that works best for the song,” McLean details. “For example, if one of the lyric phrases in the hook isn’t working very well, one of us may suggest a new lyric.”

“Not really sure what our individual strengths and talents are but I do know that we work best when we’re all feeling inspired by something,” Dunham adds. “If we all attend a good concert, we can easily draw inspiration from the show to help us come up with something to build on. If there’s a new

album we just discovered, the inspiration we draw from that will be where our talents come together best.”

While “What’s On Your Mind” was meant to hone their sound, McLean says he’s been exploring more ‘80s-pop-inspired soundscapes as of late; a la drum machine and pad sounds mixed with synthesizers.

“I’ve also been getting into guitars that use more chorus effects,” he continues. “It’s currently uncertain if we’ll be using any of these soundscapes for our future songs, but it’s definitely an option considering we just bought a new synthesizer.”

Nevertheless, Arson Daily digs deeper into indie-alt-rock storytelling with songs like “Dead in My Tracks,” a fictitious tale of outlaw bandits on the run. Filled with imagery of the “wild, wild West” through descriptive lyrics listeners almost walk alongside our outlaw narrator. With a slightly slower tempo to start, the bandit muses over their fate: “I don’t know if runnin’ is a good idea / We might be caught this time / No more livin’ fear.”

Ultimately, with wanted posters and price tags on heads, he and his posse embrace their destiny: “Caught standin’ dead in my tracks.”

It’s one song, Dunham assures, they’ll play at Bourgie Nights, along with “Tell Me.”

Authentic Thai cuisine mixed with Southern hospitality

1/2 price

3715 Patriot Way 910-769-3193

Mon. - Thur. 11am-3pm & 4:30-9:30pm Fri. 11am-3pm & 4:30-9:30pm Sat. 12-9:30pm • Closed Sunday

beer and wine every Wednesday

www.southernthairestaurant.com

“‘Tell Me’ is an upbeat garage-rock song reminiscent of ‘60s pop/rock that incorporates modern rock influences,” he describes.

“This song used to be our opener, but lately we’ve been closing with it because it’s full of energy and good vibes.”

In fact, folks can expect to hear every song from “What’s On Your Mind,” mixed in with older tunes—as well as a random cover or two. In a way, Arson Daily has new songs in the works, too.

“One song we’ve been playing out for a few months now is called ‘Los Muertos,’” Dunham divulges, “which falls in line with the sound of what you hear on our EP. It’s not exactly a new song, but we haven’t recorded it yet—so it’s new to everyone else.”

DETAILS:

Arson Daily and Onward, Soldiers

Sat., Jan. 6, at 9:30 p.m.

Bourgie Nights • 127 Princess St. Cover: $7 Facebook event page encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 9

ARTS>>MUSIC

UPBEAT AND DARK:

Wilmington’s family-owned and operated French Crêperie! * Authentic sweet and savory crêpes made from scratch * * Vegan, dairy and gluten-free available on demand * * Serving breakfast and lunch daily *

Delicious vegan, dairy & gluten free crêpes available on demand!

HOURS: Tuesday-Friday: 7am-3pm Saturday: 8am-3pm Sunday: 8am-2pm

3810 Oleander Dr. wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 395 0077 Find us on Facebook!

Dirty Fences performs at Reggie’s 42nd Street Tavern Fans at Reggie’s will likely hear most new tracks off of “Goodbye Love”—available on limited-edition splatter vinyl and cassettes, in addition to CDs and digital copies.

Daves gets a kick watching crowds react to new material, noting that the loudest, fastest “shit-kickingest” songs never fail to get the crowd moving.

BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

N

ew York City is known for producing some of the grittiest, hard-rocking and hard-working artists, musicians and bands. Reggie’s 42nd Street Tavern is getting pretty damn good about putting them in front of Wilmington audiences.

One of their first lineups of 2018 will feature NYC’s Dirty Fences, along with Zodiac Panthers and Helichopter, on January 9.

They’re currently touring in support of their latest album, “Goodbye Love” (October 2017), which is their third following 2013’s “Too High To Kross” and 2015’s “Full Tramp.” While this latest project was released via Greenway Records, it was recorded in Jersey City with Mike Moebius at Moonlight Mile Recordings. There, the band cultivates a few distinctive differences between this and previous works.

Dave and company breathe a great deal

best dang

& DONUTS BISCUITS ARE NOW IN WILMINGTON!

FENCE MENDERS: The Dirty Fences will be shipping into Reggie’s on Jan. 9. Photo by Justin Aversano

of energetic riffs, drums and garage-pop rock tones throughout “Goodbye Love.”

Starting with “All You Need is a Number” to their “Teen Angel” single, it’s a virtual rock ‘n’ roll dance party up until the night comes to an end with a slow number, “One More Step” (featuring Sheer Mag’s Christina Halladay).

“Everyone will definitely be getting down at the [Reggie’s] show,” Jack Daves (vocals, guitar) assures. “We bring the oomph, but the wild Reggie’s regulars always do, too!”

“A lot of songs on the record have an upbeat feel and poppy sensibility,” he says.

“That being said, it’s lyrically one of the darker records we’ve made.”

In fact, the title track isn’t really such in a traditional sense. Rather, the name “Goodbye Love” acts more as a reminder that there’s a lot of pain and love lost on the album as a whole.

“Like the Everly Brothers said, ‘Bye, bye, love/bye, bye, happiness/hello, loneliness/I think I’m gonna cry,’” Daves muses.

RANKED AMONG BEST BISCUITS IN THE U.S. BY FOOD & WINE MAGAZINE

OPEN

7AM-2PM DAILY

Rise Wilmington (Landfall) 1319 Military Cutoff Road /risewilmington risebiscuitsdonuts.com

10 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Dirty Fences’ sound is indicative of their collective influences, reminiscent of The Ramones to The MC5. Most songwriting comes from Daves and bassist Max Comaskey, but the process inevitably becomes a group effort.

“Usually one band member brings a pretty solid idea, with lyrics and melody already completed,” Daves details, “and the rest of the band fleshes out the structure and arrangement.”

“They dance just the same and even pretend to sing along to words they don’t know!” he says with a laugh.

“Our set these days is a pretty balanced mix of songs from all of our albums, EPs and 7-inches, with an emphasis on the newest stuff. We play fast with few breaks to pack it all in.”

While “One More Step” is a song to pump the brakes, so to speak, with an almost R&B duet with Halladay, it also was a chance to revisit soundscapes more prevalent in the beginning stages of Dirty Fences’ sound.

“It was a blast to record a slower tempo track like this,” Daves says. “We explored this kind of material a lot in our early days, but not much was recorded. It was really fun to get back to it.”

While Dirty Fences is heading into 2018 strong already with “Goodbye Love,” they’re also filming a music video “One More Step,” as well as planning more 7-inch releases.

“We are hoping to put out a live album this year,” Daves adds.

Folks can catch the Dirty Fences at Reggie’s with “glitter-gutter rock” of North Carolina’s Zodiac Panthers an Wilmington’s own punk-rockers, Helichopter.

DETAILS:

Dirty Fences

Featuring Zodiac Panthers and Helichopter Tues., Jan. 9, 9 p.m.

Reggies 42nd Street Tavern 1415 S. 42nd St. Cover: $7 Facebook event page

ARTS>>MUSIC

NEW MUSIC HATCHING:

The Hatch Brothers expand their sound in multiple ways for 2018 ing a love to dabble on many instruments.

I feel we bring our musical knowledge and eclectic styles into our songs, and while my formal training for voice and theory brings a cleaner sound into the mix, we love to improvise and bring a bit of modernistic, jazzlike insanity into our performances.

BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

B

rothers Paul and Sam Hatch share more than a few strands of DNA. Both love music—however distinctive and different in style or approach they may be. It creates a fusion of unique sound and “flavor” for their own outfit, The Hatch Brothers.

e: Are you playing any new tunes live?

PH: We are currently playing a few original songs at our shows. Locals and tourists can hear our original music, as well as the artists who inspired us to become musicians. We perform covers from our favorite artists—Beatles, Tom Petty, to ‘90s rockers, The Avett Brothers, Fleet Foxes, Alabama Shakes, Foster the People, and others.

“Paul has always favored bass styles, reminiscent of the bassist from Iron Maiden or Victor Wooten,” Sam details, “where[as] my music education allowed me to explore/ adopt tonalities from impressionism jazz, folk and rock.”

Paul (bass, vocals, ukulele) and Sam (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, piano) have performed as a duo since 2010, and developed their sound with various forms of Americana and covers of their most influential favorites—from The Avett Brothers to Foster the People. While The Hatch Brothers are finishing a series of new original songs, they also have spent time merging with other local ILM artists for a new project.

“We have been performing with our talented drummer, John Hamilton, and singer/ songwriter, Jenny Pearson,” Paul tells. “We are very happy to be working with [Jenny]. . . . Together we created a new group called ‘Jenny and The Hatch Brothers.’”

Folks can catch the new group at the Sea Witch in Carolina Beach on January 13.

Meanwhile, The Hatch Brothers continue to entertain Wilmingtonians as a duo, too.

Their next show, at Goodfellas in downtown Wilmington, is scheduled for December 30. encore caught up with Paul and Sam Hatch to chat about their music and forthcoming projects in 2018. encore (e): Tell us more about your dynamic on and off stage. What are some distinctive differences between you two?

Paul Hatch (PH): One of the best things about working together is we both are very active onstage. Whenever people come to hear us play, they comment on our energy and how we manage to create a set list that appeals to a younger audience, as well as an older group. We both know what each other can do, and it makes it easier for us to learn and create something we love.

Sam Hatch (SH): Onstage we are ener-

e: Tell us more about a couple of songs, such as what they’re about and the instrumentals we hear in them.

NEW PROJECTS: The Hatch Brothers have joined up with singer-songwriter Jenny Pearson (above) to form a fuller band. Courtesy photo.

getic and always feeling the energy of the music and room. We feed off the crowd’s energy, but we always make sure to bring it from the start. Offstage we are best friends—and always have been. e: How do you balance life outside The Hatch Brothers (like going to school or respective jobs) with the progression of the music?

PH: For me, it’s easy. We mostly have shows during the weekend, so it’s convenient with my work schedule.

SH: While this past semester has been crazy, with my composition recital and other concerts at Campbell University, the next semester will be a much lighter load.

I will graduate in May, so it will be easier to balance everything at that point. But it has been manageable, with gigs being on weekends. e: Are you both songwriters or is it a shared effort?

PH: We both take on various roles when it comes to songwriting. Very often it comes from playing together for hours and building upon a tune. [I focus] on melodies and bass lines mostly, while Sam writes lyrics, chord structures, and potential harmonies. Sam

PH: The songs we’ve written have been inspired from events in our lives, such as breakups, new relationships, and the passis a music composition major at Campbell ing of family members and friends. Our lyrUniversity, so he has written several pieces ics tend to focus on relatable concepts, with by himself, including piano works, choral an emphasis on having a poetic nature. We works and large instrumental ensemble have worked to make them unique but reworks. He is also currently working on a latable. Our instrumentation varies, but the side project, filled with songs that are a songs can include dual acoustic guitars, blend of ragtime, gospel, jazz, and folk. piano, bass, drums, and a wide variety of e: What can you tell us about your eclectic folk instruments. forthcoming album? When do you hope One of our songs, “Where You Are,” foto have it ready for release? cuses on a new relationship with a dancer, PH: We have been experimenting with many different sounds/genres, [and] blending musical styles and instrumentation. Our sounds can be reminiscent of, or a blend of, rock, blues, jazz, and folk. We are hoping to release our album by the beginning of next summer.

and the singer’s desire to be with her. The verses shift the “where” every time: the first being the desire to be in a relationship, the second being with her on her dance tour around the world, and the final being with her for the rest of their days.

e: Already have a studio in mind? Are you working with anyone to get the project off the ground?

DETAILS:

PH: Not yet, but we have been working with other musicians to help make this dream a reality.

Sat., Dec. 30, 10:30 p.m.

Goodfellas • 122 Princess St. Cover TBD

e: How are your personalities and talents reflected in the music?

PH: I feel our energy and musical knowledge is conveyed—from quick transitions to beautiful sections that convey depth and meaning to the songs we perform. We try to cover and create music that appeals to us.

SH: We’re very energetic and have a grand appreciation for all [sounds], includ-

The Hatch Brothers

Jenny and the Hatch Brothers Sat., Jan. 13, 8 p.m.

SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar 227 Carolina Beach Ave. N. Free

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 11

THURSDAY

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

$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 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

A PREVIEW OF EVENTS ACROSS TOWN THIS WEEK

THE SOUNDBOARD

SUNDAY

DON’T MISS! 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 4/7 – Papa Roach For more concerts and events, go online at HOB.COM/MYRTLEBEACH 4640 HWY 17 S. Barefoot Landing 843.272.3000 .com

! s l a de

NYE BLUEGRASS: Lot’s of live music in town for New Year’s Eve, including Into the Fog who will welcome 2018 with a free show at Burnt Mill Creek (2101 Market St.) on December 31. Courtesy photo.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27 Port City Trivia w/Dutch (6:30pm; Free)

—Magnolia Greens Golf Course, 1800 Tommy Jacobs Dr.

Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

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

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

—Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane

Naughty or Nice Party (9pm; Cover TBD; DJ) —Pravda, 23 N Front St.

Karaoke & Open Mic Night (9pm; 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.

Christmas Market and Live Music (1pm; Free)

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29

Cheston Scott (12pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28

Andy Hendrickson (7pm, 9:30pm; $17-$25; Comedy)

Max Levy & The Hawaiian Shirts (6pm; Free;

—Sloppy Poppy’s, 4540 Fountain Dr.

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

Dirty White Rags (7pm; Free; Jazz, Blues, Rock) —Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane

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

Randy McQuay (8pm; Free; Roots, Blues)

Firedrums Fire Dancers (7:30pm; Free)

Gene Gregory (8pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St. —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223

DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; Free; Electric Dance Party) Trivia Night: Party Gras Entertainment (7:30pm; —Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave. Free) —Fox and Hound, 920 Town Center Dr. Singer-Songwriter Circle (9pm; Free) —Bottega Art & Wine, 723 N. Fourth St.

—Fermental, 7250 Market St.; 910-821-0362

—Sloppy Poppy’s, 4540 Fountain Dr.

—Hoplite Pub and Beer Garden, 720 N. Lake Park Rock ‘n’ Roll) Blvd.

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)

Will Daube (7pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; $3)

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

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

—The Dubliner Irish Pub, 1756 Carolina Beach Rd.

Dubtown Cosmonauts (9pm; Free; Funk, Jam) —The Monk, 417 S College Rd.

Matt Phillips (9pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.; 910399-2796

HOW TO SUBMIT A LISTING:

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.

12 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

$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

$3.50 Sweetwaters $4.50 Absolute Lemonade 65 Wings, 4-7pm

LAUGHS FOR 2018: Writer and comedian Mekki Leeper is heading to Dead Crow Comedy Room for two nights and four shows to help kick off 2018 in ILM. Courtesy photo.

Kicking Bird, Black Mantis, Coytah (9pm; $7; Rock)

910-76 BOOKS

DJ Dr. Jones (10pm; $3)

NYE Celebration: Live Music and Food Trucks (7pm; Free)

—REGGIES 42nd St TAVERN, 1415 S. 42nd St. —Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.

Rebekan Todd and The Odyssey (10pm; Cover TBD; Rock, Soul) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30

—Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.; 910-251-1832

—Fermental, 7250 Market St.; 910-821-0362

New Years Eve Party with Boba Funk (8pm; Free) —Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

NYE Comedy-Dance Party (8pm; $20) —Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

Gatsby New Years Eve Bash (8pm; Free)

L Shape Lot Duo (8pm; Free; Americana)

—Sloppy Poppy’s, 4540 Fountain Dr.

Mike Blair and Michael Graham (8pm; Free; Americana)

—Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St.; 910-5994999

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

—Fermental, 7250 Market St.; 910-821-0362

Cejay’s Album Pre-Release Show (9pm; $7; Singer-Songwriter)

—Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.; 910-762-2091

Ratchet Bros (9pm; Free; Americana)

—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.; 910-399-2796

—Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane

Seneca Guns and Jet22 (8pm; Free)

Into The Fog NYE Bluegrass (8pm; Free)

Andy Hendrickson (9pm; $17-$25; Comedy)

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

NYE with the Blarney Brogues (9pm; Free)

—The Dubliner Irish Pub, 1756 Carolina Beach Rd.

NYE Party w/ Signal Fire (9pm; $7; Reggae)

—Palm Room, 11 East Salisbury St.; 910-5093040

ASG, Thunderlip, White Tiger & The Bed Of Roses, Helichopter (9pm; Cover TBD; Rock)

New Year’s Bash: Coastal Collective (9:30pm; Free; Hip Hop)

Steel County Express (9pm; Free; Southern Rock)

New Years Eve DISCO with The Beehive Blondes (9:30pm; Free)

—Reggie’s 42nd St. Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.

—The Monk, 417 S College Rd.

Karaoke Every Night (9pm; Free)

—Sloppy Poppy’s, 4540 Fountain Dr.

NYE Eve Party Rock Jam (9:30pm; Cover TBD) —Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

DJ Sir Nick Bland (10pm; $3)

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

Dr Bacon & Freeway Revival (10pm; Cover TBD) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

The Gossin Brothers Band (10pm; Free) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31

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

—Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.;

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

NYE At The Reel Cafe (6pm; $10)

Andy Hendrickson (7pm, 9:30pm; $17-$25; Comedy)

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

$2.75 Yuengling Draft $2.75 Domestic Bottles 65 Wings, 4-7pm

$5 Mimosas $5 Car Bombs

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 Price Bottles of Southern Wine Shiners $ 3 NC BrewedHalf 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 for Bottles daily specials, music and 2 Fat Tire Bottles $ 50 2 Fat Tire Bottles upcoming events $ 00 3 22oz. Goose Island IPA $ 95 FRIDAY 4 Irish Coffee 5564 Carolina $ 50 Cosmos $4, 007 Beach 3 Road 1/2 off ALL Premium $ Red Wine Glasses Guinness Cans 3 $ 50

New Years Eve: Mac and Juice (10pm; Cover TBD) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

A Freeway New Years (10pm; Cover TBD)

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

5564 Carolina Beach Road,

KARAOKE w/Elite Entertainment (910) 452-1212 9PM-2AM • $400 GUINNESS

Thursday ________________________________________

TRIVIA WITH STEVE

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

LIVE MUSIC

—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 2

encore magazine

Wednesday

MONDAY, JANUARY 1 College Night (10pm; Free)

For more concerts and events, go online at HOB.COM/MYRTLEBEACH 4640 HWY 17 S. Barefoot Landing 843.272.3000 Brought to you by:

(910)-452-1212

8:30 P.M. • PRIZES! • $250 YUENGLING DRAFT $ 50 3 FIREBALL SHOTS

Open Mic Mondays w/ $2 Micros (8pm; Free)

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 4/7 – Papa Roach 5/4 – Blue October

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 _____________________________________

—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-763-4133

—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.; 910399-2796

DON’T MISS!

Friday & Saturday __________________________ 2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS

$ 00

Sunday ___________________________________________

BREAKFAST BUFFET

Read us online at encorepub.com

9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. • $4 MIMOSA’S

WATCH YOUR FAVORITE TEAM HERE!

Comedy Bingo (6pm; $2)

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

Sign up

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 13

Trivia with Sherri ‘So Very’ (7pm; Free)

New Atmosphere (9pm; $5; Rock)

The 2nd Return of CAM JAM (10pm; Cover TBD)

Karaoke Every Night (9pm; Free)

DJ Elementary (10pm; Cover TBD)

—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040

Young Bull and Coastal Collective (9:30pm; Cover TBD; Hip Hop)

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3

Onward, Soldiers and Arson Daily (9:30pm; $7)

—Blackfinn Wilmington, 18 Harnett St. —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

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

Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)

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

Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

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

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.

Kristie Campbell (9pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

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

Karaoke & Open Mic Night (9pm; Free) —Sloppy Poppy’s, 4540 Fountain Dr.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4

Julia Walker Jewell (7pm; $3; Jazz)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 , 2017 st

NO COVER! • Full Food Menu • • Live Music from Coastal Collective • • Drink and Food Specials • • Money Balloon Drop at Midnight • • Champagne Toast at Midnight • Did we mention NO COVER?

Doors Open at 9pm KISSING AT MIDNIGHT NOT PROHIBITED —

but remember, it’s cold and flu season

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

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

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

Firedrums Fire Dancers (7:30pm; Free)

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

DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; $3)

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

Treehouse (10pm; Cover TBD; Reggae) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 5

Loosewheel Bluegrass Jam (7pm; $3) —Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.

Mekki Leeper (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy)

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

Piano Jazz with James Jarvis (8pm; Free)

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

—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

—Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

DJ Sir Nick Bland (10pm; $3)

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

Chris Frisina (10pm; Cover TBD; Singer-Songwriter)

—Palm Room, 11 E.Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7

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

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

Bluegrass Sunday (6pm; Free)

—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.; 910399-2796

Sunday Jazz (7pm; Free)

—Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St.; 910-599-4999

MONDAY, JANUARY 8

Port City Trivia w/Dutch (7pm; Free)

—Buffalo Wild Wings, 140 Hays Lane, #B15

Fox Hollow and Dream Machine (8pm; Free; Indie Rock) —Gravity Records, 612 Castle St.

Monday Night Parade: Lit & Friends (9pm; Free) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 9 Comedy Bingo (6pm; $2)

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

Grüt (9pm; Free; Improvisational, Eclectic)

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

Dirty Fences, Zodiac Panthers, Helichopter (9pm; $7) —REGGIES 42nd St TAVERN, 1415 S. 42nd St.

DJ Elementary (10pm; Cover TBD)

DJ Dr. Jones (10pm; $3)

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

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10

DJ Bigg B (10pm; Cover TBD)

—Hoplite Pub, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.

—REGGIES 42nd St TAVERN, 1415 S. 42nd St.

—2nd Base Lounge, 255 N. Front St.

Driving Miss Crazy (10pm; Free; Rock ‘n’ Roll) —The Monk, 417 S. College Rd.

The Shivers (10pm; Cover TBD; Rock)

—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040

—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040

Trivia Night w/Party Gras (7pm; Free)

‘Shakey’ Neil Young Tribute Show (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

Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

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

Chris Nash (7pm; $3; Singer-Songwriter)

Singer-Songwriter Circle (9pm; Free)

Mekki Leeper (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy)

Sai Collins (9pm; Cover TBD; Singer-Songwriter)

Shoot To Thrill (9pm; $10; Female AC/DC Tribute)

Karaoke & Open Mic Night (9pm; Free)

—Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.

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

14 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

—Sloppy Poppy’s, 4540 Fountain Dr.

WAUL, Reef Blower, Slumber Wave (9pm; Cover TBD; Rock)

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6

www.hellskitchenbar.com • 910.763.4133 • 118 Princess St.

—Bottega Art & Wine, 723 N. 4th St.

—The Monk, 417 S. College Rd.

—Bottega Art & Wine, 723 N. 4th St.

—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave. —Sloppy Poppy’s, 4540 Fountain Dr.

CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTHEASTERN NC

SHOWSTOPPERS

ENDING 2017: JJ Grey & Mofro will help wrap up 2018 at House of Blues Myrtle Beach on Dec. 29 and The Fillmore in CLT on Dec. 31. Photo by Tom Dorgan, 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 12/31: Corey Smith 1/13: Departure NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE NORTH DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 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 12/30: 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 12/31: NYE Party with JFK Sr. 1/5: Lillie Mae 1/12: MBalla and more 1/18: Tim Barry and more

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 12/29: 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 1/6: QDR’s Happy Q Year with Chris Lane, Midland, more 1/12: ZOSO and The Iller Whales CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 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) 1/10: Ben Gerber (Back) 1/12: Yonder Mountain String Band and Southern Belles 1/12: Heaven, Organos, and Faults (Back) THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 12/31: Langhorne Slim and more 1/6: Abbey Rd. LIVE! 1/9: Henry Rollins Travel Slideshow 1/10: ZOSO 1/11: Badfish

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 15

into the fog will maxwell

brian stephenson

violin, kick-drum

banjo, guitar

winston mitchell dobro, mandoli

Playing newgrass Americana with an exciting twist and standard bluegrass hits!

Competitors in the Telluride Bluegrass Competition, June 2018!

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES: Dec. 29:

The Palm Room

11 E. Salisbury St., Wrightsville Beach 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Dec. 31:

Burnt Mill Creek

2101 Market St., #7, Wilmington 8:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.

Follow @IntoTheFog 16 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Jan. 14:

Fishy Fishy (Brian and Will Duo) 106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

www.intothefogmusic.com

NO INCLU W DING

...

jesse stockton guitar

Like music from The Avett Brothers, Greensky Bluegrass and Trampled By Turtles?

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll love Into the Fog!

WHAT’S HANGING AROUND THE PORT CITY

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

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

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

“Dreaming of Peace: Oil Paintings by Tatyana Kulida and Mio Reynolds” continues until January 13th. 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 9pm.

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 appoint-

ment 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 themedriven: 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.

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 known artists.

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

Wilma Daniels Gallery will host 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.

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. encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 17

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.)

e

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 “SPIRIT OFNight!

THE HOLIDAYS CRUISE” 3 courses HAVE COMPANY? Cheese, entree, and dessert We have the perfect thing to do with them...

“Spirit of the Holidays” Cruise ~Select wine tastings paired with each course~ Friday & Saturday, December 29 & 30th Boarding @ 5:30pm • Departs at 6pm $65 per couple Cruise is 60 minutes into a magical light

delight with holiday songs performed by a Certificates 138 South FrontGift Street, Downtown reservations encouraged. 910.251.0433 www.littledipperfondue.com local Musician, tasty holiday cocktails from our bar with some tasty sweet treats.

Available!

Great way to get into the Holiday spirit.

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

Complete Schedule:

wilmingtonwatertours.net

e

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

W I N N E R

info@wilmingtonwt.com

BAR ON BOARD WITH ALL ABC PERMITS HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

18 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Follow us

Remember we are enclosed & very comfy

DECEMBER CRUISE SCHEDULE December 26th - Sunday December 31st 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm 50 minute narrated cruises ONLY $10

EAGLE ISLAND CRUISES JANUARY 2018 FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm 50 minute narrated cruises ONLY $10

REEL TO REEL

ARTS>>FILM

INCREDIBLY COMPELLING:

films this week

‘Darkest Hour’ delivers on drama with Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill

W

BY: ANGHUS

e’re living in strange times— which may be the understatement of 2017. And I’m not just talking about the insane vitriolic state of disintegrating political discourse and rage that has gripped everyone like a clenched fist.

Our sociological state has become shaken as we deal with problems that many thought we already had dealt with. The future seems increasingly uncertain. The circumstances were similar for Winston Churchill when he took power and was forced to deal with the advent of World War II, which is the focus of the new drama “Darkest Hour.”

“Similar” might be a stretch.

Churchill was dealing with one of the most harrowing armies ever created, not tiki-torch wielding guys in J. Crew shirts and Sansabelt slacks. Churchill (Gary Oldman) comes into power just as Germany is invading Belgium and marching west into France. In a very short span of time, he has to decide whether or not to concede to the Nazis and negotiate peace, or stand and fight the greatest menace of the 20th century—which puts the lives of every citizen he had sworn to protect at risk.

It’s a decision and position few have faced. In hindsight, the choice of negotiating with the Devil or enduring the hell of Luftwaffe bombers, seems obvious. But the political will was lacking, and Churchill was tasked with a choice that would have broken a lesser man.

“Darkest Hour” is a great drama from director Joe Wright (“Atonement”) and focuses on a pivotal moment in Churchill’s time as prime minister. It’s a single decision that will define how history would remember him.

The timing of the film feels strange for two reasons: Much of its tension is wrapped around the retreating British army, who are cornered and awaiting rescue. (The very subject matter of summer’s “Dunkirk,” the Christopher Nolan spectacle that told this story not known to many outside of the United Kingdom.) Immediately, much of the movie’s central boiling point felt a little tepid. Then again, we know how the war ended. Churchill was a war hero who led the British people through a great hardship. He is now heralded a legend, one who has been portrayed on film and

DEFINING HISTORY: Gary Oldman plays Winston Churchill (above) in ‘Darkest Hour.’ Photo courtesy of Focus Features

television by many talented actors. And that is the second source of strange with “Darkest Hour.”

I’ve been watching the hit Netflix series “The Crown,” which covers a different period of history for Churchill, played excellently by John Lithgow. This version of Churchill is older, more fragile and desperate to hold onto the role of Prime Minister, which had been taken from him at the end of the war.

Lithgow has so many wonderful moments on the show. His award-winning portrayal shows the strengths and weaknesses of this man. It feels unfair to compare portrayals. I think I prefer Lithgow’s take, but I found Gary Oldman’s stab at The British Bulldog to be incredibly compelling. Even with “Dunkirk” and “The Crown” floating around in the periphery, Oldman was able to carve out a passionate performance.

“Darkest Hour” does a great job of delivering on drama. The entire movie is hoisted onto Oldman’s shoulders, and he carries it to the finish line. There are some other fine actors doing work; I particularly liked Ben Mendelsohn’s portrayal of King George VI. He did a nice job portraying a healthy mix of valor and vulnerability.

If there is a downside to “Darkest Hour,” it would probably be the brevity of time covered and specificity subject matter. We get to see the range of Winston Churchill’s choices during the dark hours, magnified to a dramatic degree, but with the amazing transformation by Gary Oldman, I wanted to see more of the character’s life as por-

trayed by Oldman—a wider snapshot of the complex person, which is a testament to how good the performance is.

They say character is what you do when no one else is looking, and people are defined by how they react to difficult scenarios. “Darkest Hour” is an intriguing examination of one man with the fate of a nation in his hands and the emotional gauntlet he endured as he wrestled with his choices, and finding the will to convince his fellow Britons there could be no peace with a monster.

DETAILS:

Darkest Hour Rated PG-13 Directed by Joe Wright Starring Gary Oldman, Lily James, Kristin Scott Thomas, Ben Mendelsohn

CINEMATIQUE

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

Jan. 8-10 (additional 4 p.m. screening on Jan. 10): “Jane” draws from over 100 hours of never-before-seen footage that has been tucked away in the National Geographic archives for over 50 years. Award-winning director Brett Morgen tells the story of Jane, a woman whose chimpanzee research challenged the male-dominated scientific consensus of her time 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. screening on Jan. 18): Greta Gerwig reveals herself to be a bold new cinematic voice in directing “Lady Bird,” excavating both the humor and pathos in the turbulent bond between a mother and her teenage daughter. Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson fights against but is exactly like her wildly loving, deeply opinionated and strong-willed mom, a nurse working tirelessly to keep her family afloat after Lady Bird’s father loses his job. Set in Sacramento, California in 2002, amidst a rapidly shifting American economic landscape, Lady Bird is an affecting look at the relationships that shape us, the beliefs that define us, and the unmatched beauty of a place called home. (Rated R, 94 min.)

We have issues....

get them every Wednesday

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 19

JAPANESE HIBACHI STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER GOURMET HOT CHOCOLATES UNIQUE SPECIALS DAILY

WWW.BLUESURFCAFE.COM

250 Racine Drive Wilmington, NC Racine Commons 910.523.5362

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

SURF. EAT. REPEAT.

614 S. College Rd. • (910) 399-3366 www.okamisteakhouse.com hours of operation can be found on our website

“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 20 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

ARTS>>THEATRE

ON THE MOVE:

Khalisa Rae Williams inspires a woman’s world with debut play and a slew of projects in 2018

D

blank slate. It will include art from a local feminist artist, a slide-show projection, and color/lighting splashes. “Melissa will be doing sound,” Williams notes. “The Big Dawg staff will assist with lighting and stage; [cast members] Maria, Jazzmin, and Lily will help with lighting and tech because they work at Thalian Hall and Hannah Block Community Arts, which is where we have been holding our rehearsals. Set design will be a collaborative effort.”

BY: SHEA CARVER

on’t know the name “Khalisa Rae Williams” yet? Well, sit tight because she is on a roll and gaining momentum for her prolific works that will be released within the first two months of 2018.

Williams has built a following already in ILM with her open-mic poetry sessions at Bottega, not to mention writing “Real Girls Have Real Problems” in 2012 and launching a new business with the up-and-coming Athenian Press and Workshops in 2018—a femme-centered bookstore she founded with Lori Wilson and Daisuke Shen. She also will debut her creative brand Khalisa & Co. on January 7—the same day she makes her directorial debut with her play, “The 7 Deadly Sins of Being a Woman,” at Cape Fear Playhouse.

“The play was inspired by my book, ‘Real Girls Have Real Problems,’” Williams tells encore. “My book is essentially a collection of my perspective of being a woman in this society and the affect of popular culture on me—everything from my disdain for director Tyler Perry, to my frustration about the concept that all girls should grow up to be ‘princesses,’ to my childhood of growing up reading Seventeen and Vogue, to writing a poem inspired by rapper Lil Wayne’s ‘Blood Diamonds.’”

The transition from writer to playwright is a natural one for Williams. She is classically trained in dance, musical theatre, acting, and singing and has been performing since age 7. She even began her college career at UNCC, with hopes of becoming a professional actress. But the written word took hold instead, and she went to N.C. A&T University for her B.A. in creative writing. After graduating from Queens University with a masters in poetry, she managed and founded a women’s poetry and performance nonprofit, Poet.she. Then off she went across the U.S. to tour as a poet.

At UNCG and UNCW, Williams helped with Eve Ensler’s famed production “Vagina Monologues.” Working on the show of vignettes—featuring women worldwide who openly and honestly discuss everyday obstacles and even the barbarity they face in a patriarch-ruled society—inspired Williams to look closer at her writings as a collective, told from varied perspectives of the female truth. She also adored the choreopoem “For Colored Girls,” which includes dance, music, song, spoken word, etc.

WOMAN ON A MISSION: Khalisa Rae Williams will debut her play, ‘The 7 Deadly Sins of Being a Woman’ at Cape Fear Playhouse on Jan. 7. Photo by Tish Yvette

From those inspirations, Williams began devising seven themes for her play—a.k.a. the seven deadly sins of women. They surround ideas and concepts that have kept females silent for a long time, whether from shame or fear of not being believed. More so, they’re themes at the forefront of every news channel, social-media feed, dinner table, and magazine cover from 2017 (and likely in 2018): sexism/harassment, misogyny/racism/colorism, body image/selfesteem/beauty myth, bigotry/hate crimes, sexual assault/domestic violence, sexuality, identity, and self harm/mental illness.

“As we have seen [most recently,] women are feeling comfortable sharing their stories, but also more cases are being brought to light,” Williams tells. “Because of the rape culture that seems to be perpetuated in the White House, and also in institutions, homes, sports teams, and more, it is time women speak up about the atrocities they find embarrassing or shameful. It is so important to voice their trauma, to in turn be free of things that for so long have held them captive. Our hope is by speaking truthfully, other women will find courage and bravery to speak, get the healing and help they need, and live full whole lives.”

Alongside codirector and cowriter Melissa Randall, Williams cast more than a dozen women in her debut: Charlon Turner,

Regina McCleod, Lily Nicole Nelson, Susan Auten, Terry Batson, Lauren Busch, Nathalie McCall, Mariah Hossan, Maria Chandler, Jazzmin Moore, Christina Miller, Joanna G. Stotts, and Luis Gonzaga. The powerful actresses—some of whom are femme-identified queer individuals—will talk about a multitude of experiences. Stories range from coming out to a mother, losing her virginity, experiencing date rape, undergoing racism and sexism in the classroom, and even visiting a sex shop for the first time.

“The stories are gripping, comical, soulwrenching, and heart-warming,” Williams describes. “The women will be reading selected poems from ‘Real Girls...’ and my forthcoming book, ‘Southern Belles Burning,’ but the most thrilling part of the play, I think, is the fact women will be sharing personal narratives and monologues based on the seven themes within the play.”

The stage for the show will be minimally set—much like “Vagina Monologues.” Williams wants emphasis put toward words and their power.

“Essentially, my favorite type of play is one that is a series of poems and monologues that doesn’t rely on props, set design, transitions or costume,” she tells. “The play is heavily reliant on the stories—uninhibited, unfiltered stories that will capture the audience, not fancy costumes, props and sound effects.”

The play runs for one night only, January 7; though, it won’t be the end of Williams’ work in 2018. Under her creative brand Khalisa and Co.—which will produce media, content and exhibitions that highlight and uplift women and femmes of color—a Real Girls blog and 7 Deadly Sins podcast will begin. Williams has many performances lined up, too, including one with Brittany Patterson from The Dance Cooperative at the Cameron Art Museum. They’re doing excerpts from their dance/poetry piece, “The Invisibility Project,” which they showcased at SARUS last fall. It is based on the Wilmington Riots of 1898.

“The Cape Fear Museum will be partnering with me to do a Black History Month event based on black authors in New Hanover County and surrounding areas that focus on place, history and location,” Williams says. Williams and local author/storyteller Delthea Simmons are slated to curate the event.

Williams will open the doors to Athenian Bookstore and Press at 2231 Wrighsville Avenue at the beginning of February before applying for artist fellowships and seeking funding for her first full-length book “Black and Queer in the South.” She also will launch a Brown Girl Brunch series with writer friend Nicole Nichols.

“We will be hosting quarterly brunches in the Triad to bring women of color writers together,” Williams says. “No one is doing that right now, and we really want to provide a place for women writers to share stories, network and mingle. That will take place in the RDU in February or March.”

DETAILS:

The 7 Deadly Sins of Being a Woman

January 7, 7 p.m. • $5 Cape Fear Playhouse 613 Chestnut St. However, the stage won’t be a complete Tickets on Eventbrite.com

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 21

SOUTHEASTERN NC’S PREMIER DINING GUIDE

GRUB & GUZZLE

OCEANIC RESTAURANT • www.oceanicrestaurant.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

22 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

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

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 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 themselves 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 THE LITTLE DIPPER facebook.com/thefelixcafewilmington Wilmington’s favorite fondue restaurant! The Little HENRY’S Dipper specializes in unique fondue dishes with a A local favorite, Henry’s is the ‘place to be’ for global variety of cheeses, meats, seafood, veggreat food, a lively bar and awesome patio dining. etables, chocolates and fine wines. The warm and Henry’s serves up American cuisine at its finest that intimate dining room is a great place to enjoy a fourinclude entrees with fresh, local ingredients. Come course meal, or indulge in appetizers and desserts early for lunch, because it’s going to be packed. outside on the back deck or in the bar while watchDinner too! Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to 30 people. 2508 Independence ing luminescent jellyfish. Reservations are appreciated for parties of any size. Located at the corner Boulevard, Wilmington, NC. (910) 793.2929.

SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. - Mon. 11 a.m.- of Front and Orange in Downtown Wilmington. 138 10 p.m.; Tues.- Fri.: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sat.: 10 South Front Street. (910) 251-0433.

■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; Seasonal a.m. – 11 p.m. hours are open 7 days a week, Memorial Day ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown through October ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.henrysrestaurant.com ■ FEATURING: Tasting menu every Tues. with HOLIDAY INN RESORT small plates from $1-$4; Ladies Night every Wed; Oceans Restaurant located in this oceanfront re- $27 4-course prix fixe menu on Thurs.; “Date night sort is a wonderful find. This is the perfect place menu,” $65/couple with beer and wine tasting evto enjoy a fresh Seafood & Steak dinner while dinery Fri. and half price bottles of wine on Sun. ning outside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Chef ■ MUSIC: Mondays and Memorial Day-October, Eric invites you to experience his daily specials in this magnificent setting. (910) 256-2231. 1706 N. 7-9pm ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach.

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 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 quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to childhood. Served among a soup du jour and sal-

ads, 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 SPOONFED KITCHEN & BAKE SHOP Newly opened Spoonfed Kitchen & Bake Shop is 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

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: MUNCHIES

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 23

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

Boone, NC (828) 265-2658 Chapel Hill, NC (919) 240-4206 ■ WEBSITE: www.trollystophotdogs.com

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

Open 7 days 11 am - 9 pm. Our popular Daily Lunch Specials are featured Monday-Saturday for $4.99 with selections from our most popular menu items! We always have fresh seafood selections at Hibachi To Go, like delicious hand peeled shrimp, fresh local flounder and always a fresh catch fillet in-house. We scratch make every item on our menu daily. We offer your favorite hibachi meals and some of our originals like our pineapple won tons. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for the most up to date information on Hibachi To Go. Always fresh, great food at a super good price. Hampstead Phone: 910.270.9200. • Ogden Phone: 910.791.7800 Wilmington Phone: 910833-8841 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open 7 days 11am-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, North Wilmington, Hampstead

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 ■ WEBSITE: www.hibachitogo.com Southport (910) 457-7017

BRUNCH ON THE BEACH Indoor and Outdoor Seating Oceanfront Carolina Beach

Serving 11 a.m. Sundays $5 Mimosa $5 Bloody Mary $5 Michelada

1211 S. Lake Park Blvd • 910-458-2000 www.oceangrilltiki.com 24 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

ANTONIO’S PIZZA AND PASTA • www.antoniospizzaandpasta.com INDOCHINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Orient without having to leave Wilmington, join us at Indochine for a truly unique experience. Indochine brings the flavors of the Far East to the Port City, combining the best of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine in an atmosphere that will transport you and your taste buds. Relax in our elegantly decorated dining room, complete with antique Asian decor as well as contemporary artwork and music. Our diverse, friendly and efficient staff will serve you beautifully presented dishes full of enticing aromas and flavors. Be sure to try such signature items as the spicy and savory Roasted Duck with Red Curry, or the beautifully presented and delicious Shrimp and Scallops in a Nest. Be sure to save room for our world famous desert, the banana egg roll! We take pride in using only the freshest ingredients, and our extensive menu suits any taste.

After dinner, enjoy specialty drinks by the koi pond in our Asian garden. Located at 7 Wayne Drive (beside the Ivy Cottage), (910) 251-9229.

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

Mon.- Sun. 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. for dinner.

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

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

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

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

Our highly skilled chefs cook an incredible dinner while entertaining you on the way. Our portions

are large, our drinks are less expensive, and our staff is loads of fun. We are committed to using quality ingredients and seasoning with guaranteed freshness. Our goal is to utilize all resources, domestically and internationally, to ensure we serve only the finest food products. We believe good, healthy food aids vital functions for well-being, both physically and mentally. Our menu consists of a wide range of steak, seafood, and chicken for the specially designed “Teppan Grill.” We also serve tastebud-tingling Japanese sushi, hand rolls, sashimi, tempura dishes, and noodle entrees. This offers our guests a complete Japanese dining experience. Our all-you-can-eat sushie menu and daily specials can be found at www.okamisteakhouse.com! 614 S College Rd. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am-2:30pm / 4-10pm; Fri., 11am-2:30pm / 4pm11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am-9:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.okamisteakhouse.com SZECHUAN 132 Craving expertly prepared Chinese food in an elegant atmosphere? Szechuan 132 Chinese Restaurant is your destination! Szechuan 132 has earned the reputation as one of the finest contemporary Chinese restaurants in the Port City. Tastefully decorated with an elegant atmosphere, with an exceptional ingenious menu has deemed Szechuan 132 the best Chinese restaurant for years, hands down. 419 South College Road (in University Landing), (910) 799-1426.

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: 1/2 Price Sushi/Appetizer Menu

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

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

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

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

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/

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.harpwilmington.com

CARIBBEAN

ITALIAN

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 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

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

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

Daily Lunch Specials

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) 7991399.

■ 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 madefrom-scratch desserts. Or, if you’re looking to get creative in your own kitchen, A Taste of Italy carries a wide selection of imported groceries, from pasta to 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

Daily Drink Specials

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 25

■ 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.lacostamexicanrestauranwilm-

ington.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

Specials: TUES NIGHT: 1/2 Price wines by the glass WED NIGHT: 1/2 Price Draft beers

Dinner Daily: Tuesday - Saturday starting at 5pm Sunday Brunch: 10am-2pm featuring DIY Mimosa = 1 bottle of sparkling wine and a mason jar of hand squeezed OJ

www . rxwilmington . com

421 c astle s t • (910) 399-3080 F acebook : Facebook . com / rxwilmington / or Follow us on instagram rxrestaurantandbar 26 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

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 on the dog-friendly patio at 5046 New Centre Dr. Carry out: 910-859-7374.

5-9pm ■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Full ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown menu until 2am daily.

■ WEBSITE: www.rxwilmington.com ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, near UNCW ■ FEATURING: Daily food and drink specials.

■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/ JaxFifthAveDeliAleHouse 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. THE FORTUNATE GLASS WINE BAR Located on College Rd. near UNC W, this lively The Fortunate Glass is an intimate venue sports-themed restaurant. Covered and open out- showcasing globally sourced wines, plus creative door seating is available. Lunch and dinner specials small plates and craft beers. The serene ambiance are offered daily, as well as the coldest $2 and $3 is created by the beautiful wall mural, elegant glass drafts in town. 317 South College Road. (910) tile bar, castle rocked walls and intimate booths.

There are wines from all regions, with 60 wines by 791.9393. the glass and 350 wines available by the bottle. The ■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: food menu consists of numerous small plates, fine 11am-2am daily. cheeses, cured meats and decadent desserts that ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: 40 HD TVs and the biggest HD will compliment any wine selection.

■ SERVING DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Tues. - Thur., projector TVs in Wilmington.

4 p.m. - midnight; Fri., 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. ■ WEBSITE: www.CarolinaAleHouse.com 2 a.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. - midnight.

JAX 5TH AVE. DELI & ALE HOUSE ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown, 29 S Front St. Locally owned and operated, Jax offers a laid-back ■ FEATURING: Weekly free wine tasting Tues., 6 - 8 atmosphere, welcoming foodies, sports fans, and p.m. Daily small plates, and wine and beer specials. craft beer enthusiasts alike. We provide a full eclec- ■ WEBSITE: www.fortunateglass.com tic 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

SPORTS BAR

TAPAS/WINE BAR

WE SERVE

bREaKfASt ALL DAY

We serve all of your breakfast favorites any time of the day.

Kids Eat Free! with purchase of adult entree

14-inch one topping $7.99 25% off online orders Code: MJ25

P calz izza, pa and ones, sa sta, m hom e de mies, liver y!

5120 S. College Rd. • 910-792-0000 Monkey Junction, Carolina Beach

3501 Oleander Dr. #2 • (910)228-5999 UNCW, Downtown and Market Street

Mon.-Thurs. 11 am- 9 pm Fri. & Sat. 11 am - 10 pm Sun. 11:30 am - 9 pm ORDER ONLINE: http://antoniospizzaandpasta.com

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH STORE COMING SOON! encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 27

Leave the cooking to us!

Call one of our 3 convenient locations today and let us cater your holiday party!

EXTRA>>BOOKS

CARPE LIBRUM:

A trilogy gift perfect for readers, adventurers and armchair travelers BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

“Fresh tastes better” Scratch cooking... the new healthy!

100% of our menu is made in-house daily!

Midtown: 910.833.8841 t a Drive-thru d894 S. Kerr Ave. n Hamptead a Midtown Hampstead: 910.270.9200 15248 Highway 17 N Ogden: 910.791.7800 6932 Market St.

Locally family owned and operated since 2011! $4.99 Lunch Special 11am-4pm Mon.-Fri. Student specials, too!

Follow us...

W

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

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

Literary Trails of North Carolina

By Georgann Eubanks UNC Press, 2007-13, trilogy

“Literary Trails of the North Carolina Mountains” (2007), “Literary Trails of the North Carolina Piedmont” (2010), and “Literary Trials of Eastern North Carolina” (2013) comprise a remarkable journey through the literary landscape of our state.

Georgann Eubanks utilizes the traditional form of the guidebook to take readers on journeys through geography and time.

Each book is divided into individual “tours” that relate.

For example, in “Literary Trials of Eastern North Carolina,” area is Tour 7: Carolina Beach, Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach. Tour 6 makes up Calabash, Sunset Beach, Shallotte, Holden Beach, Oak Island, Southport, Bald Head Island, and Fort Fisher. All together, across three books of material, Eubanks guides us around the state with individual tours.

Perhaps what makes the series fascinating, is the melding of form. On the surface she uses a traditional guidebook format, but, throughout all three volumes, Eubanks employs a conversational prose, more focused on storytelling than on dry recitation of information. Even if readers don’t visit the modest house in Rocky Mount that Jack Kerouac immortalized in “The Dharma

28 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Bums,” it seems known intimately. Eubanks follows a formula of quoting the text that mentions a place (where applicable), giving greater context, as well as directions.

The aforementioned house in Rocky Mount belonged to Kerouac’s sister, and he wrote about sleeping on the back porch when he visited.

The depth and breadth of material included makes the series a course in North Carolina’s cultural history. Eubanks includes the big hits: O. Henry, Sandburg, Wolfe, Sparks, etc., but she doesn’t stop there. She mines the state’s connection to the literary world to the present with a host of stars. She also connects us to Margaret Mitchell, Carson McCullers, P. T. Barnum, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, and Earnest Hemmingway, to drop just a few big names.

Though she uses names to get readers’ attention, she really preaches the good word about the state’s writers associated with various educational institutions and community organizations. If anyone takes one thing away from the books, let it be, for all the big names we could attract, the writers who live here and continue to exalt our fair state with the written word and work with future generations to cultivate the literary arts are the real treasures.

Eubanks does not dwell in the past by steeping each page in nostalgia. For her, writers working 100 years ago are just as vibrant and alive through their writings as those producing today. She sends an incredibly strong message that the literary world of North Carolina is not a piece of amber to be viewed as a relic. Eubanks really wants readers to know the word is vibrant and alive in North Carolina—but it is standing on the shoulders of over 200 years of

work. She treats the living and dead with equal reverence and admiration. Perhaps it is a lesson many of us could aspire to give the work of our contemporaries the same consideration and interest we give our patron saints.

Clearly, Eubanks has spent a tremendous amount of time driving in NC. It would be easy to do a guidebook about the Triangle, Asheville and Charlotte, with a couple of nods to the outdoor dramas at each end of the state. Yes, Raleigh and Chapel Hill get a lot of page space, but it looks like she manages to include every county with an assortment of locales to visit, including landmarks, bookstores, libraries, public parks, museums, special collections, and artwork. Eubanks really gives equal admiration to poets writing about small mountain counties as she does to literary stars of Chapel Hill.

We can read her books as an armchair traveler and learn about our state’s history, and cultural growth, while discovering new writers. Or we can get in our cars and go— because she really will inspire readers to seek out the locales she found. The ones nearby will change the way we see our hometowns, while the furthest reaches of North Carolina call them back to be seen in a new light.

It can be hard to find a gift for book worms who read fast. But one of Eubanks’ books might be the solution to said giftgiving conundrum (especially when including a promise to seek out locales together in the coming year). Sharing our history with those we love and making memories around art that has spoken to generations is a special gift. Eubanks offers us the key to get started.

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

Baked from scratch in small batches all throughout the day!

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! encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 29

HAPPENINGS & EVENTS ACROSS WILMINGTON

TO-DO CALENDAR

events

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 and best of all— no cover! Hell’s Kitchen-Wilmington, NC, 118 Princess St. A REEL NEW YEAR’S EVE

Acoustic music on the patio, karaoke on the 2nd level and Myrtle Beach’s favorite party band SPLASH on the heated rooftop. Dinner menu available. $10 cover. Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.

FERMENTAL NEW YEAR’S EVE

Dec. 31, 7pm: Full evening of live music from a collection of local talent—Kyle Lindley, SoulR-Fusion and Emily Burdette. Rotating selection of rare beers on tap throughout the evening, wines by the glass, mulled mead, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight.

2 Bros Coastal Cuisine on site at 7pm with an evening of fine, hand-crafted edibles for everyone. Free. No reservations required. Fermental, 910-821-0362. www.fermental.net

DANCE-PARTY-DONATION DRIVE NYE

Dec. 31, 9 pm: 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. Event is also a donation drive for The Good Sheperd House. We are asking for donations ranging from warm winter coats to feminine products for the homeless of Wilmington. A list of items needed can be found in the Facebook event.

Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

NEW YEARS EVE: THE BLARNEY BROGUES

Dec. 31, 9pm: Say goodbye (or good riddance?) to 2017 with The Blarney Brogues at The Dubliner! Irish music, champagne toast at midnight, great friends and pints! The Dubliner Irish Pub, 1756 Carolina Beach Rd.

GATSBY NY EVE BASH

Dec. 31, 7pm: Waterline Brewing Compan’s most swinging Gatsby party of the year. We will have the 1923 Ford Model T for Pictures.

Striking Copper will play and food trucks will be onsite. Free entry! 721 Surry Ln.

SIGNAL FIRE NEW YEAR

Dec. 31, 9pm: New Year’s celebration with Signal Fire and special guests Amani Smith w/ The Give Thanks Band & Sensi Trails!

Doors 8pm; show 9pm. $7. Palm Room, 11 East Salisbury St.

FREEWAY NEW YEAR’S

Dec. 31, 10pm: Celebrate the new year with The Freeway Revival at Jimmy’s at Red Dogs in Wrightsville Beach. Turning heads all over the East Coast and continually growing a

30 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

CROSSWORD

Creators syndiCate THE NEWSDAy CROSSWORD

CREATORS SyNDICATE © 2017 STANLEy NEWMAN

WWW.STANXWORDS.COM

12/31/17

Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)

ATLAS HUGGED: a.k.a. 118 Across

by Fred Piscop ACROSS 1 Taters 6 Gather bit by bit 11 S&L amenity 14 Big Brother broadcaster 17 Portraitist’s prop 18 Transitional state 19 Tangible 21 Two-purpose 22 Boot sole material 24 Singer Del Rey 25 Dagwood’s young neighbor 26 Eerie 27 Number-aligning mark 29 Stun gun 30 Street vendor’s vehicle 31 Friend in the ’hood 35 Ukraine’s capital 37 Turf Builder seller 41 Unbooked slot 45 Soprano-range 49 Drummer’s cymbal pair 50 Thomas Hardy heroine 51 Blue-haired Simpson 53 Hoist 55 Ration (out) 56 Slice of history 57 Freighter listing 60 Fourth one counted, perhaps 61 Cabinet department 63 Pedometer reset reading 64 BOGO event 65 Walesa’s homeland 67 __-proof (easy to operate) 69 Undercover worker 70 Diarist Nin 71 Fireplace adjunct 73 Italian wine city 75 Good bud

77 Warehouse 80 “Just as I thought!”

81 Thermometer gradation 85 Make known 86 Brown shades 88 Navigation device 89 Small fry 90 Roofing piece 91 Prime-time hour 93 Sneezin’ reason, perhaps 95 Shaved-ice treats 97 Unhappy looks 99 Nest eggs, briefly 101 Takes, as advice 102 Go-betweens 106 Italian cheese city 110 Old West train robbers 113 Combat supplies 116 Keystone State port 117 Vogue rival 118 Alternate title for the puzzle 121 Untrustworthy one 122 Horse hue 123 Built for speed 124 Alternative to texting 125 Hasty escape 126 Peculiar 127 Gull cousins 128 Overly sentimental DOWN 1 Dry, as vermouth 2 Up to __ (adequate) 3 Takes off the shelf 4 Captain Sparrow portrayer 5 Fell in pellets 6 Overfills 7 Cuba __ (cocktail) 8 Board a ship 9 Genesis shepherd

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 20 21 23 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 38 39 40 42 43 44 46 47 48 52 54 57 58 59 62 66 68 69 70 71 72

Likewise not Van Gogh hangout Show the ropes to Fanatical Fringe group Ole Miss rival Unkempt one Asian priests Shoulder muscle Elvis record label Ava who directed Selma Structure with a keystone __ diem worker Red Monopoly piece Puccini genre Minnesota’s iron source Helpful connections News story “Common Sense” pamphleteer Raptor’s gripper Knight’s mount Physicians’ org.

Seer’s deck Thus Leave quickly, so to speak Vivacity Language suffix Sticky stuff NFL Live channel Hollered Jellied garnish Warty creatures “To a . . .” work Fairway position Small bills Fine silver Sci-fi visitor Overfills Island group

73 74 75 76 78

Florence’s river Shut tightly Tissue layer Seeks info Stopped from squeaking Lock of hair RNC’s group Volcano near Palermo GI-entertaining org.

Bus-stop structure

79 82 83 84 87

90 92 94 96 98 100 103 104 105 107 108

Sock part Threesome EMTs’ destinations Ebenezer’s creator More sensible Web user Ice house Tossed fare Upturned, as a crate As You Like It forest Smells strongly

109 110 111 112 113 114 115 118

Chap HP’s PC competitor Diva’s rendition Actor Neeson Smoothing tool Cry from a crib Break quickly Only president from Mo. 119 Ballroom dance move 120 Full of guile

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

737 3rd street

n

hermosa beach, ca 90254

Monthly magazine made with kids, for kids and by kids.

n

tel. (310) 337-7003

n

FaX (310) 337-7625

RESERVE SPACE NOW FOR KIDZink.

Distributed to New Hanover County schools and in freestanding locations monthly! encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 31

32 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

WORK LIKE A BOSS

Dreaming of a privace office? It’s actually more affordable than you think. At Coworx, you share basic business amenities, which keeps prices reasonable for many startups and freelancers. It’s also a great way to surround yourself with other driven, local professionals.

In business, that’s called a ‘win-win.’

Private offices start at $575 per month.

24/7 Access | Fiber Internet | Mail Service | Meeting Space COWORXSPACE.COM 1608 QUEEN STREET 910.208.0286 /COWORXSPACE

Acupuncture Free Consultat io

n

e

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

W I N N E R

Services Acupuncture • Massage • Herbal Pharmacy • Yoga Medical Qigong Private Healing Sessions and Clinics Now offering Qigong classes with David J. Coon, MQM – Medical Qigong Master Emphasizes self-healing and consciousness transformation through still and moving postures, breathing techniques and creative visualization.

Reduce Reliance on Pain Meds with Acupuncture and QI Gong 4916 Wrightsville Ave. Wilmington NC 28403 910.791.1981 www.MckayHealingArts.com encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 33

Dec. 27, 2017-Jan. 3, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21â&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 20) I need more smart allies, compassionate supporters, ethical role models, and loyal friends, and I need them right now!â&#x20AC;? writes Joanna K., an Aries reader from Albuquerque, New Mexico. On the other hand, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jacques T., an Aries reader from Montreal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To my amazement, I actually have much of the support and assistance I need,â&#x20AC;? he declares. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What I seem to need more of are constructive critics, fair-minded competitors with integrity, colleagues and loved ones who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t assume that every little thing I do is perfect, and adversaries who galvanize me to get better.â&#x20AC;?

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m happy to announce, dear Aries, that in 2018 you will benefit more than usual from the influences that both Joanna and Jacques seek.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) In the Scots language spoken in Lowland Scotland, a â&#x20AC;&#x153;watergawâ&#x20AC;? is a fragmented rainbow that appears between clouds. A â&#x20AC;&#x153;skaferâ&#x20AC;? is a faint rainbow that arises behind a mist, presaging the imminent dissipation of the mist. A â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;silk napkinâ&#x20AC;? is a splintered rainbow that heralds the arrival of brisk wind and rain. In accordance with the astrological omens, I propose we use these mysterious phenomena as symbols of power for you in 2018. The good fortune that comes your way will sometimes be partially veiled and seemingly incomplete. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compare it to some â&#x20AC;&#x153;perfectâ&#x20AC;? ideal. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be more interesting and inspiring than any perfect ideal.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) In 2018, half-buried residues from the past will be resurfacing as influences in your life. Old dreams that you abandoned prematurely are ripe to be re-evaluated in light of what has happened since you last took them seriously. Are these good or bad developments? It will probably depend on your ability to be charitable and expansive as you deal with them. One thing is certain: To move forward into the future, you will have to update your relationships with these residues and dreams.

your goals by mixing and matching resources in unique ways.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) I wish I could make it nice and easy for you. I wish I could proclaim that the forces of darkness are lined up against the forces of light. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to be able to advise you that the opening months of 2018 will bring you a showdown between wrong and right, between ugliness and beauty. But it just ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that simple. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more like the forces of plaid will be arrayed against the forces of paisley. The showdown will feature two equally flawed and equally appealing sources of intrigue. And so you may inquire, Libra, what is the most honorable role you can play in these matters? Should you lend your support to one side or the other? I advise you to create a third side.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) In 2018 your tribe will be extra skilled at opening things that have been shut or sealed for a long time: heavy doors, treasure boxes, rich possibilities, buried secrets, shy eyes, mum mouths, guarded hearts, and insular minds. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a knack for initiating new markets and clearing blocked passageways and staging grand openings. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be more inclined to speak candidly and freely than any other generation of Scorpios in a long time. Getting stuck things unstuck will come naturally. Making yourself available for bighearted fun and games will be your specialty. Given these wonders, maybe you should adopt a new nickname, like Apertura (the Italian word for â&#x20AC;&#x153;openingâ&#x20AC;?), Ouverture (the French word for â&#x20AC;&#x153;openingâ&#x20AC;?), Ĺ iĹĄi (Yoruban), OtevĂ­racĂ­ (Czech), Ă&#x2013;ffnung (German), or Kufungua (Swahili).

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) I predict that the coming months wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bring you the kinds of opportunities you were imagining and expecting, but will bring you opportunities you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t imagined and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect. Will you be alert and receptive to these sly divergences from your master plan? If so, by September of 2018 you will have become as smart a gambler as maybe you have ever been. You will be more flexible and adaptable, too, which means youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be better able to get what you want without breaking stuff and wreaking whirlwinds. Congratulations in advance, my daring CANCER (June 21-July 22) Poet Diane Ackerman tells us that human tongues, lips, and darling. May your experiments be both visionary and practical. genitals possess neural receptors that are ultra-responsive. May your fiery intentions be both steady and fluidic.

Anatomists have given unsexy names to these bliss-generCAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) ating parts of our bodies: Krause end bulbs, also known as Hungarian psychiatrist Thomas Szasz dismissed the idea a bulboid corpuscles. (Couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t they have called them â&#x20AC;&#x153;glimperson should be on a quest to â&#x20AC;&#x153;find himselfâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;find herself.â&#x20AC;? mering rapture hubsâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;magic buttonsâ&#x20AC;??) In any case, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The self is not something that one finds,â&#x20AC;? he said. Rather, â&#x20AC;&#x153;it these sweet spots enable us to experience surpassing is something one creates.â&#x20AC;? I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great advice for you in pleasure. According to my understanding of the astrologi2018, Capricorn. There will be little value in wandering around cal omens for 2018, Cancerian, your personal complement in search of fantastic clues about who you were born to be. of bulboid corpuscles will be even more sensitive than Instead, you should simply be gung-ho as you shape and craft usual. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s further good news: Your soul will also have a yourself into the person you want to be. heightened capacity to receive and register delight.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mise en placeâ&#x20AC;? is a French term whose literal translation is â&#x20AC;&#x153;putting in place.â&#x20AC;? When used by professional chefs in a restaurant kitchen, it refers to the task of gathering and organizing all the ingredients and tools before beginning to cook. I think this is an excellent metaphor for you to emphasize throughout 2018. In every area of your life, thorough preparation will be the key to your success and fulfillment.

Make sure you have everything you need before launching any new enterprise or creative effort.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Experimental composer Harry Partch played one-of-a-kind musical instruments that he made from objects like car hubcaps, gourds, aluminum ketchup bottles, and nose cones from airplanes. Collage artist Jason Mecier fashions portraits of celebrities using materials like noodles, pills, licorice candy, bacon, and lipstick tubes. Given the astrological configurations for 2018, you could flourish by adopting a similar strategy in your own chosen field. Your most interesting successes could come from using things as theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not â&#x20AC;&#x153;supposedâ&#x20AC;? to be used. You could further

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Is there anything about your attitude or your approach that is a bit immature or unripe? Have you in some way remained an amateur or apprentice when you should or could have become fully professional by now? Are you still a dabbler in a field where you could be a connoisseur or master? If your answer to any of these questions is yes, the coming months will be an excellent time to grow up, climb higher, and try harder. I invite you to regard 2018 as the Year of Kicking Your Own Ass. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) In 2018 one of your themes will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;secret freedom.â&#x20AC;? What does that mean? The muse who whispered this clue in my ear did not elaborate further. Based on the astrological aspects, here are several possible interpretations. 1. You may have to dig deep and be strategic to access resources that have the power to emancipate you. 2. You may be able to discover a rewarding escape and provocative deliverance that have been hidden from you up until now. 3. You shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t brag about the liberations you intend to accomplish until you have accomplished them. 4. The exact nature of the freedom that will be valuable to you might be useless or irrelevant or incomprehensible to other people.

34 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

dedicated grassroots fan base, Freeway Revival has shared the stage with artists like Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real, Melvin Seals & JGB, Dangermuffin, Zach Deputy, Dr. Bacon, Big Something, Mac & Juice and many other great national and regional artists.

Appeared as #20 on Jambands.com National Radio Charts. Cover TBD. 5 N. Lumina Ave. NY EVE DISCO: BEEHIVE BLONDES

No New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve plans? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got just the thing! Start your night off with đ&#x;?&#x2022;at the NEW Bennyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Time and then come on over to @satellitebarandlounge to celebrate their 8th birthday with some live bluegrass and last but not least, dance it out with The Beehive Blondes like itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1979, 9:30-12:30pm. Free.

Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.

NYE MAC AND JUICE

Dec. 31, 10pm: The Whiskey New Years Eve for the Grandest New Years Eve Party in ILM with Mac and Juice. Doors at 8pm, and show starts, 10pm. Cover TBD. The Whiskey, 1 S. Front 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.

BURNT MILL CREEK NYE

Dec. 31, 8pm: Into the Fog with Will Maxwell (The Midatlantic), Brian Stephenson, Winston Mitchell and Jesse Stockton. New bluegrass/ folk supergroup. Customers that arrive before 9:30pm will get in for free. Cover charge starts at 9:30pm to 12:30am. Get dressed up, wear a tuxedo, or come casual and jam the night away. Chris Frisina will be opening the night!

Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St. ILM ELITE NETWORKING

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 attendees are responsible for their own alcoholic beverages.1-800-205-2327 or www. rockstarconnect.com.

N. BRUNSWICK NEWCOMER MEETING

Jan. 12, 9:30am: First meeting of 2018 for the NBNC; meet-and-greet will begin at 9:30am with snacks and refreshments. Meeting will follow at 10am. Guests who live in Northern Brunswick County are welcome.

Speaker will be Frank Herzogâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a professional sports broadcaster. Frank is best known for his role as a play-by-play radio 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 other college football and basketball contests on the CBS network. Herzog also has had minor parts in a few films, including 2009â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s State of Play, starring Russell Crowe and Ben Affleck. Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way

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 Hospiceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. YOGAFEST

Wilmington Yoga is offering free yoga & events Jan. 6-7, at both locations! Join us as we raise money for Home of Hope! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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; theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be noted â&#x20AC;&#x153;freeâ&#x20AC;? 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, 5329 Oleander Dr., Ste 200

music/concerts MUSIC CRUISES

A boat ride at sunset on the river! Join us for a 1.5 hour cruise on the Cape Fear River.

Sip a drink from our full bar, enjoy the sights, while listening to music by local musicians. $27. Book: 910-338-3134. Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

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 the show quests will be able to listen and pre-order copies of the album before it is released to the public. Cejay collaborated w/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 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 take their outrageous drag show across the Australian Outback. A hit parade of dance floor favorites from the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;70s and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;80s: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Raining Men,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Love Got to Do with It,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Say a Little Prayer,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Will Survive,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shake Your Groove Thing,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hot Stuffâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 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. THE 7+ DEADLY SINS OF BEING A WOMAN

See p. 21.

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

(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 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. www.deadcrowcomedy.com

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 PRIMETIME COMEDY Come see some of North Carolina’s best DEAD CROW COMEDY ROOM stand-up comedians in a world class venue!

Dec. 29-31, 7pm/9:30pm: New Years Event:

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 dancing with live music by Box of Chocolates band—fiddle, percussion, guitar, dulcimer, bass, mandolin and more! Dress cool & comfortable, softsoled shoes. All ages. 2nd/4th Tues, 7:30pm.

United Methodist, 409 S. 5th Ave.

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 Education, and the Downtown Business Alliance. Amy Grant: grantamyn@gmail.com, 484-885-3037; or Rhonda Bellamy: info@artswilmington.org, 910-343-0998.

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

www.SoldBuySea.com

Search homes, land, rentals & commercial or instant home valuation

For all of your...

• Residential Sales • Property Management • Commercial Sales and Leasing • Land • New Construction • Custom Homes Serving New Hanover, Pender, Brunswick and Onslow Counties Wilmington Office: 910-367-2965 • 5004 Oleander Drive Hampstead Office: 910-821-1300 • 15200 Hwy 17 N Unit H encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 35

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. • 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 provides any participating artist equal opportunity to meet a significant curator working in the field of contemporary art today. CAM organized with a visual schematic for reference to the over 600 intensely installed artworks. • CAM Café open and serving delicious menu with full bar, 5pm9pm. Tues.-Sun., 11am-2pm; Thurs. nights, 5pm-9pm 910-395-5999. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St.

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM

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

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

WILMINGTON RAILROAD MUSEUM

Explore railroad history and heritage, especially of the Atlantic Coast Line, headquartered in Wilmington for 125 years. Interests and activities for all ages, including historical exhibits, full-size steam engine and rolling stock, lively 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, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12.

The Latimer House of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped acces-

Don’t Throw That Old Funiture Away!

Go Green & Re-Upholster!

sible 126 S. Third St. CAPE FEAR SERPENTARIUM

World’s most fascinating and dangerous reptiles in beautiful natural habitats, feat. a 12foot 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. 910-762-1669. capefearserpentarium.com.

BELLAMY MANSION

One of NC’s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans, for John Dillard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, planter and business leader; and his wife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (18211907) and their nine children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington. Now a museum, it focuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action.910-251-3700. bellamymansion. org. 503 Market St.

BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE

18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmington’s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th and 19th century decor and gardens.

Colonial life is experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen-building and courtyard. 3rd/Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm.

Last tour, 3pm. 910-762-0570. www.burgwinwrighthouse.com.

CAPE FEAR MUSEUM

Fast Turn-around Time Let our experts turn your old, drab furniture into exciting new decor.

Ask about our “re-purposed” furniture

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 • Expires 1/15/18

36 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

See NC through the eyes of Wilmington-born photographer Hugh MacRae Morton (19212006). His captivating images will be featured in the traveling exhibit “Photographs by Hugh Morton: An Uncommon Retrospective,” is now open at Cape Fear Museum. The exhibit is on loan from the UNC Library’s North Carolina Collection Photographic Archives and will be on view through September 2018.

To create Photographs by Hugh Morton, Stephen Fletcher, photographic archivist at UNC Library’s North Carolina Collection Photographic Archives, selected images from the library’s collection of Morton’s estimated quarter-million 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. • Curiosity Carts, Jan. 7, 1:30pm: Free for members or with general admission. Get your hands on history and science! Examine artifacts and science specimens. Gain insight into topics featured in museum exhibits. Carts are stationed in Museum galleries and feature short hands-on, facilitated experiences for visitors.

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.

LITTLE EXPLORERS

Thurs. and Sat., 10am: Meet your friends in Museum Park for fun hands-on activities! Enjoy interactive circle time, conduct exciting experiments, and play games related to a weekly theme. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers every Friday. Free!

Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

HALYBURTON LITTLE EXPLORERS

Discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. Hello Hibernationon Web Activity # 306038 Thurs., 12/14, 10-11am; Fri., 12/15, 10-11am. Halyburton Park,4099. S. 17th St.

AERODYNAMICS FUN

Kids ages 6 to 13 are invited to build and test a variety of paper airplanes at this free library program. They’ll learn about the four forces of flight (lift, weight, thrust, and drag) as they observe the performance of different airplane designs. How far will it fly? How accurately will it land? Will it loop-the-loop? No registration is required for this free program for kids ages 6 to 13. Meaghan Weiner at mweiner@nhcgov. com or 910-798-6385.

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.

AFTER CHRISTMAS CAMP

Dec 27-29: Coastal Athletics offers three day all-skills camp.Ages 7-12 welcome! Baseball and softball. Price is $40/day for those staying from 8am-noon. $120 (3 days) Extend your stay from 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm for $20!

(910)-452-5838 or www.coastalathletics.net.

’s e n nti

y a D

ale V n

O

February 14, 2018 • 7:30 pm

your Favorite ‘90s dance hits!

Direct from Europe! Tickets on sale NOW!

Ticket Central 910.362.7999 www.CapeFearStage.com www.WilsonCenterTickets.com encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 37

Coastal Athletics, 2049 Corporate Dr., South NHC YEAR ROUND CAMP

Jan 2-5: All skills camp, ages 7-12 welcome!

Baseball and softball. Price is $140 for four days for those staying from 8am-noon. Extend your stayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;til 4:30 pm for $20/day! (910)-4525838 or www.coastalathletics.net. Coastal Athletics, 2049 Corporate Dr., South

PITCHING/CATCHING CLINIC

Jan. 6, Coastal Athleticsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Pitching and Catching Clinic! Ages 7-12 welcome. Baseball. $60, 9am-noon. (910)-452-5838. www.coastalathletics.net

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 Libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calendar at 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 1600â&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. 910338-3134. ILM Water Tours, 212 S. Water St. HARBOR CRUISE

Weds, 3pm: Set sail on the Shamrock for a cruise around Wrightsville Beachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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 Bonnyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

classes

Join us for power yoga on Sundays at Captâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n Billâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 3pm. Drop in fee of $8. Bring your own mat. 4240 Market St.

FINISH IT: YOUR LIBRARY

ART CLASSES

Lois DeWitt art classes, $100/4 (two-hour).

Meditative Drawing: Wed., 10am and 2pm. â&#x20AC;˘ Thurs. and Fri, 5pm: Art it upâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Nice and Easy! â&#x20AC;˘ Sat. 10am: Learn how to pour color shapes and define them with drawing. â&#x20AC;˘ Mon, 10am: Stamp or Stencil Painting. â&#x20AC;˘ Beginning or advanced students. â&#x20AC;˘ Tues, 10am and 2pm: Colored Pencil with Oil Pastel Layering.

All materials provided. www.free-online-artclasses.com (click on Wilmington Art Classes). 910-547-8115 or loislight@bellsouth.net

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.

PAPERMAKING CLASSES

603 Castle St. POWER YOGA

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 paperâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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,

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 910-7986371. Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

ENVISION 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 youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to manifest. We will ground ourselves in the depth of who we already are, through contemplation, pranayama, journaling and asana. Take flight through a full spectrum of yoga poses, including basic hand balancesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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 pen. All levels. Good for 2 hours Continuing Education through Yoga Alliance. $25 adv. reg.; $30 same day reg. Longwave Yoga, 203

RESPON SI BLE IT SO L UT IO NS

&HUWLĂ&#x20AC;HG $SSOH DQG :LQGRZV 6XSSRUW 5HSDLU 3URPSW 3URIHVVLRQDO &RXUWHRXV 6HUYLFH 'DWD 5HFRYHU\ Â&#x2021;9LUXV 5HPRYDO Â&#x2021;:LĂ&#x20AC; 6HFXULW\ %XVLQHVV RU 5HVLGHQWLDO Â&#x2021; 2Q VLWH 6HUYLFH Â&#x2021; 5HIHUHQFHV

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

38 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Racine Dr., #200 STRESS REDUCTION CLASS

Jan. 3, 6pm: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teaches meditation and gentle yoga to cultivate awareness, reduce stress and create a greater sense of peace and well-being. If you’re tired of your racing heart and mind keeping you up at night, struggling with feeling anxious and overwhelmed, feel you’ve lost yourself in the chaos of your life, come to the free orientation to check out the class. You’ll learn how to relax your body, calm your mind chatter, cultivate more peace and joy, and start living your life more mindfully and intentionally. People take an MBSR course for reasons that include stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, GI distress, chronic illness, fatigue, heart disease, insomnia, and grief/loss. The class is taught by Jen Johnson, mindfulness teacher, coach and licensed counselor. Jen has been teaching mindfulness for over 30 years. Free orientation January 3 6pm. The class begins January 10. Meets Wed., 6-8pm, and Sat., Feb. 17, 9 -3pm. Reg. limited and required. McKay Healing Arts, 4916 Wrightsville Ave.

CRYSTAL WATERCOLOR PAINTING

Jan. 7, 2pm: In this Workshop, the soothing energy of crystals and the therapeutic nature of painting merge together as local artist and Longwave instructor, Addie 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 MAKE A GRATITUDE JOURNAL

Jan. 8, 1pm: Start 2018 with a new focus on the positive things in your life! Make a gratitude journal to keep and use, or to give to a friend. Attendance is free and supplies are provided. The first of Pleasure Island Library’s “Make it Mondays” programs, a new activity for 2018. Each session will concentrate on a different craft activity, and many of the products will be given back to the community through Operation Gratitude and Giving.

Space and supplies are limited, www.nhclibrary.org or 910-798-6385. Teresa Bishop at tbishop@nhcgov.com; NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

METAL & WIRE WORKSHOP OPEN HOUSE

Jan. 9, 10am: Thank You to everyone for my second year teaching metal and wire work at the Community Arts Center Wilmington and Peace To You in the coming year! Some hands-on materials for creating and lots of good fellowship so please come and bring a friend. Karen Keffer Pridemore, free. Info, raffles and light snacks! Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St.

FINANCIAL AID 101

Jan. 9, 6pm: Free workshop for college-bound high school students and their parents. April Query of College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) will explain how to apply for financial aid, starting with the FAFSA application for federal college aid programs. Workshop is free and you don’t need to register to at-

tend. CFNC is a free service of the State of North Carolina. Tar Heel families can create their personal road map to applying and paying for college at CFNC’s website, www. cfnc.org, where you can find comprehensive information and planning tools. Annice Sevett at asevett@nhcgov.com/910-798-6371. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St. TECH TUESDAY

Jan. 9, 1pm: Bring your smartphone or tablet to Pleasure Island Library, and get your device set up to read ebooks and listen to eaudiobooks. It’s free with your New Hanover County Public Library card! Workshop is free but space is limited, so please register on the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org or by calling 910-798-6385. Make sure to bring your device, cords, and library card with you. Teresa Bishop at tbishop@nhcgov.com or 910-7986385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

JANUARY BEGINNING CLASSES 101

Jan. 9, 6:30pm: Cape Fear Fencing Association 6 week beginning fencing class starts January 9th at 6:30 pm in the basement of the Tileston gym. Class will meet for approximately 1 hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 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 - 80. Cost is $50 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

LET’S TALK BOOKS

Jan 10, 11am: Join a different kind of book club! This weekly meeting offers book lovers a chance to meet and compare notes about favorite books and authors. Attendance is free and advance registration is not needed, just drop in! Teresa Bishop at tbishop@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

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

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 39

device, cords, and library card with you.

Annice Sevett at asevett@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. EMPLOYEE RIGHTS CLINIC

Jan. 11, 2:30pm: Legal Aid of North Carolina offers this free informational webinar for anyone who has questions about their legal rights in the workplace. Preregister on the calendar, www.NHCLibrary.org, or 910-7986301. Participants will watch a webinar that explains employment at will, right to work, employment discrimination, and unemployment benefits under NC law. Legal Aid of North Carolina is a statewide nonprofit law firm that provides free legal services in civil matters to low-income people. Contact the organization by calling 866-210-5262, or visit their website at www.legalaidnc.org. Natasha Francois at 910-798-6306 or nfrancois@ nhcgov.com.

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 can significantly reduce family stress and improve quality of care. Advance directives supplied so health-

care instructions can be legally documented.

Jason: 910-796-7943. jason.clamme@lcfh. org.

LET’S TALK BOOKS

Jan. 3, 11am: Join a different kind of book club! This weekly meeting offers book lovers a chance to meet and compare notes about favorite books and authors. Attendance is free and advance registration is not needed, just drop in! Teresa Bishop at tbishop@nhcgov. com or 910-798-6385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

Jan. 10, 4pm: Tired of losing weight on new fad diets but always gaining it back? Ready to learn how to lose weight and keep it off permanently? Nutritionist Sarah Edwards from Summerfield Custom Wellness will explain how to adjust your eating habits to lose weight or maintain the weight you desire. Her tips will help you eat a healthy diet without having to give up all the great taste that you love. Free but advance registration is requested. Register on the calendar or by calling the Main Library Reference Desk at 910-798-6301.

Natasha Francois at nfrancois@nhcgov.com.

Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

GENRE BOOK CLUB

Jan. 11, 1pm: Genre Book Club is a new opportunity for adults to meet at Northeast Library on the second Thursday of each month to recommend books to each other. Everyone is welcome, it’s free, and you don’t need to register in advance. Instead of all reading the same book and discussing it, Genre Book Club participants are asked to each pick a

book in the same genre and give a short review at the meeting. The genre for January is MYSTERIES. The goal is to leave each meeting with a list of books you might want to read, so bring a notebook! Annice Sevett : asevett@ nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd

clubs/notices WILMINGTON FENCING CLUB

Adults meet Tues/Thurs, 7:45-9pm, and Youth meet Wed, 6:45-7:45pm. Class is open to the community, beginners welcome, and all equipment is provided! Sessions are 6 weeks long and the cost is just $5 per class!

Fencing incorporates agility, strength, coordination, balance, and timing. In fencing, physical ability is just as important as having a strong mental edge. Competitors of a fencing match wear protective gear including a jacket, glove, and head gear. Sport of fencing features three different levels, which are categorized by the type of weapon used in each level. The weapons used include the epee, foil, and the saber. Fencing is an aerobically challenging sport. In order to condition one’s body, initial fencing training consists of challenging conditioning exercises. Express YMCA, 11 S. Kerr Ave.

LA LECHE LEAGUE

Sat., 10am, meetings are informal and open to pregnant women, mothers, babies and children. If you have questions or just would like to meet other breastfeeding mothers, this is the meeting for you. La Leche League Leaders are experienced mothers who have breastfed their own babies and who have been trained and accredited by La Leche League International to help mothers and mothers-to-be with all aspects of breastfeeding. Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave.

groups/CFGPokemon. Cape Fear Games, 4107 Oleander Dr., Ste D BIRTH CIRCLE

Every 3rd Sat. come for our Birth Circle, something always different every month.

Check out website for more details of what we have in store this month & exact time of each event! www.thebumpandbeyond.com.

Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave.

CHRISTIAN MYSTICISM

We explore God using the methods and guidance of Moses, Jesus, the prophets and a rich sampling of delightful saints including Theresa of Avila, Meister Eckhart and Thomas Aquinas. We will meet twice a month for fellowship, poetry, instruction in spiritual practices, group meditations and playful spiritual fun. First and third Sundays of each month, 2pm. Parking on 15th St. Respond to me, John Evans, at insightbuilders@gmail. com. Morning Glory Coffeehouse, 1415 Dawson St.

OLD MAN WINTER FENCING TOURNAMENT

Jan. 6, 9:30am: 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

ORANGETHEORY GRAND OPENING

Wilmington residents are invited to stop by the newest Orangetheory Fitness studio for a night of music, drinks and prizes Thursday, Dec. 28 from 5-8 p.m.! Guests have the chance to check out a lululemon popup shop and the final opportunity to lock-in discounted membership rates. Orangetheory Fitness is a one-of-a-kind group personal training workout broken into intervals of cardiovascular and strength training. Knowledgeable studio staff will be onsite during the family friendly event to answer any questions, explain the workouts and provide tours of the new space!. 1412 Barclay Pointe Blvd., Ste. 1002

NHC HAZWAGON

New Hanover County encourages residents to safely dispose of toxic materials with its new mobile collection unit, the HazWagon. stationed various days at three different locations in New Hanover County to collect household hazardous waste and electronics free of charge. Residents can bring items to the following locations each week: Mon., 10am2pm, at Ogden Park ball fields; Wed., 10am2pm at Wrightsville Beach Municipal Complex in the Farmers’ Market field by the recycle center; Fridays at Carolina Beach Mike Chappell Park (in the south side of the park across from the tennis courts), 10am-2pm.

FRIDAY NIGHT MAGIC

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 format. $6 fee paid towards prize support for event. Prizes are a pack per win and also if you complete all 4 rounds. Event begins at 7pm, reg. begins at 6pm. Arrive early for event reg. Free play, $6 entry fee first FNM Free. Cape Fear Games, 4107 Oleander Dr., Ste D.

POKEMON LEAGUE

On Sunday evening learn to play the Pokemon Trading Card game, battle and trade in the video games, or enjoy the store’s Pokemon Go Pokestop. Ages are welcome to our family friendly environment. www.facebook.com/

40 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

culinary FERMENTAL

Free tasting every Friday, 6pm. Third Wed. of each month feat. musical and brewing talents alongside an open mic night, as well as the opportunity for homebrewers to share, sample, and trade their creations: an evening of beer and an open stage. PA and equipment provided. All genres and beer styles. 4pm, free. www.fermental.net. 910-821-0362. 7250 Market St.

FREE BREWERY TOURS AND TASTINGS

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

PORT CITY FARMERS’ MARKET

Tues., 5pm: Join us for a wonderful, exciting night of fun. Port City Farmer’s Market at Waterline Brewing Co. 100% local, 100% handmade. Shop among some incredible local vendors, artists and farmers. Support small businesses in your area. Fresh local produce, beef and pork products, sweets, pickled items, handcrafted jewelry and art.

Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Ln.

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. 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

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

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-wilmingtonnc. Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavillion Pl.

tours 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 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.

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.

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

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 Wilmington 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 selfguided 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 self-care. 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) 442-8480 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, Breastfeeding USA counselor, and Postpar-

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 41

UPCOMING EVENTS:

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28 | 7:00 P.M. Men’s Basketball vs Greensboro College SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 | 7:00 P.M. Men’s Basketball vs Delaware SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 | 2:00 P.M. Women’s Basketball vs William & Mary TUESDAY, JANUARY 2 | 7:00 P.M. Men’s Basketball vs Drexel SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 | 7:00 P.M. Men’s Basketball vs Northwestern SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 | 12:00 NOON Swimming & Driving vs Davidson

42 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

photo courtesy of Amber Russell

Island Passage Elixir • 4 Market Street • 910.762.0484 Island Passage Lumina Station • 1900 Eastwood Rd. • 910.256.0407 Return Passage • 302 N. Front Street • 910.343.1627 encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 43

WE HAVE THE BEST UNCW SELECTION & BEST PRICES IN TOWN!

W W W. K R A Z Y M I K E Z . C O M

DISCOVER NEW MUSIC AT 98.3 THE PENGUIN

FREE SHIPPING YEAR ROUND

HAPPY NEW YEAR! PRODUCTS WE CARRY • SOUVENIRS • KIDSWEAR • UNCW • SUNGLASSES • GIFTS • FOOTWEAR • ONE TREE HILL

BRANDS WE CARRY • ONE TREE HILL • OLD GUYS RULE • LAID BACK • SEADOG • HEYBO • UNCW

THE BEST CAPE FEAR & WILMINGTON APPAREL

2018

SPECIALTY SHOWS:

Located in the heart of Historic Downtown Wilmington!

Check Facebook for specials.

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

1 N Front St | Wilmington, NC 28401 | (910) 833-5223

WWW.983THEPENGUIN.COM

44 encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

tum 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; dropins 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.

January 3-10, 2018

ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20)

In 2018, your past will undergo transformation. Your memories will revise and rearrange themselves. Bygone events that seemed complete and definitive will shimmy and shift and require new interpretations. The stories you have told about how you became who you are will have to be edited, perhaps even rewritten. While these overhauls may sometimes be disconcerting, they will ultimately be liberating.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

In 2018, people will be drawn to you more than usual. Some will want you to be their rock—their steady, stable source of practical truth. Some will ask you to be their tonic—their regular, restorative dose of no-nonsense. Others will find in you a creative catalyst to help them get out of their ruts and into their grooves. What will you receive in return for providing such a stellar service? First, there will be many opportunities to deepen and refine your integrity. To wield that much influence means you’ll have to consistently act with high-minded motivations. Secondly, Taurus, you’ll get a steady supply of appreciation that will prove to be useful as well as gratifying.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Influences that oppose you will fade as 2018 unfolds. People who have been resistant and uncooperative will at least partially disengage. To expedite the diminishing effects of these influences and people, avoid struggling with them. Loosen the grip they have on your imagination. Any time they leak into your field of awareness, turn your attention instead to an influence or person that helps and supports you. Here’s another idea about how to collaborate with cosmic rhythms to reduce the conflict in your life: Eliminate any unconscious need you might have for the perversely invigorating energy provided by adversaries and bugaboos. Find positive new ways to motivate yourself.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

I predict in 2018 you will figure out how to get your obsessions to consistently work for your greatest good. You will come to understand what you must do to ensure they never drag you down into manic self-sabotage. The resolute ingenuity you summon to accomplish the heroic feat will change you forever. You will be reborn into a more vibrant version of your life. Passions in the past that have drained and confused you will become efficient sources of fuel for your worthiest dreams.

tors syndiCate

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

Just because you have become accustomed to a certain trouble doesn’t mean you should stop searching for relief from that trouble. Just because a certain pain no longer knocks you into a demoralized daze for days at a time doesn’t mean it’s good for you. Now, here’s the good news: In 2018 you can finally track down the practical magic necessary to accomplish a thorough healing of that trouble and pain. Make this the year you find a more ultimate cure.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Have you ever nursed a yearning to speak Swahili, Chinese or Russian?

The coming months will be an excellent time to get the project underway.

Do you fantasize about trying exotic cuisines and finding new favorite foods? I invite you to act on that fantasy in 2018. Is there a form of manual labor that would be tonic for your mental and physical health? Life is giving you a go-ahead to do more of it. Is there a handicraft or ballgame you’d like to become more skilled at? Get started. Is there a new trick you’d like to learn to do with your mouth or hands? Now’s the time.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Before the 15th century, European nations confined their sailing to the Mediterranean Sea. The ocean was too rough for their fragile, unadapt-

able ships. Around 1450, the Portuguese developed a new kind of vessel, the caravel. It employed a triangular sail that enabled it to travel against the wind.

Soon, exploratory missions ventured into the open sea and down along the coast of West Africa. Eventually, the new technology enabled long westward trips across the Atlantic. I propose we make the caravel a symbol of power for 2018, Libra. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you will find or create a resource that enables you to do the metaphorical equivalent of effectively sailing into the wind.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

The Aztecs were wanderers originally. They kept moving from place to place, settling temporarily in areas throughout the land now known as Mexico. An old prophecy told them they eventually would find a permanent home at a site where they saw an eagle roosting on a cactus, as it clutched a snake in its talons. There came a day in the 14th century when members of the tribe spied this very scene on an island in the middle of a lake. They began to build the city that in time was the center of their empire. I bring this to your attention, Scorpio, so it can serve as a metaphor to guide you in 2018. I suspect you, too, will discover your future power spot: the heart of your domain for years to come.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Not every minute of everyday, but when you have had the time, you’ve been searching for a certain treasure. With patience and persistence, you have narrowed down its whereabouts by collecting clues and following your intuition.

Now, at last, you know its exact location. As you arrive, ready to claim it, you tremble with anticipation. When you peel away the secrets in which it has been wrapped, you see it’s not exactly what you expected. Your first response is disappointment. Nevertheless, you decide to abide in the presence of the confusing blessing and see what happens. Slowly, incrementally, you become aware of a new possibility: You’re not quite ready to understand and use the treasure.

You’ll have to grow new capacities before you’ll be ready for it in its fullness.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Soulful beauty will be a major theme for you in 2018—or at least it should be. I suppose it’s possible you’re not very interested in soulful beauty, perhaps even bored by it. Maybe you prefer skin-deep beauty or expensive beauty or glamorous beauty. If you choose to follow predilections like those, you’ll lose out on tremendous opportunities to grow wilder and wiser. But let’s hope you make yourself available for a deeper, more provocative kind of beauty—a beauty that you could become more skilled at detecting as the year unfolds.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

“Let your freak flag fly” was an expression that arose from the hippie culture of the 1960s and 1970s. It was a colorful way to say, “Be your most unique and eccentric self; show off your idiosyncrasies with uninhibited pride.” I propose we revive it for your use in 2018. I suspect the coming months will be a favorable time for you to cultivate your quirks and trust your unusual impulses. You should give yourself maximum freedom to explore pioneering ideas and maverick inclinations. Paradoxically, doing so will lead to stabilizing and enduring improvements in your life.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

In accordance with the astrological omens, I suggest you start compiling a list entitled, “People, Places, Ideas, and Things I Didn’t Realize Until Now That I Could Fall in Love With.” Then keep adding more and more items to this tally during the next 10 months. To get the project underway in the proper spirit, you should wander freely and explore jauntily, giving yourself permission to instigate interesting mischief and brush up against deluxe temptations. For best results, open your heart and your eyes as wide as you can. One further clue: Act on the assumption that in 2018 you will be receptive to inspirational influences and life-transforming teachings that you have never before been aware of.

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 45

The easiest way to save money at local businesses!

.com

! s l dea

46 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

CORKBOARD Available for your next CD or Demo

KAREN KANE MUSIC PRODUCTIONS 33 year veteran Producer/Engineer

200 album credits

Dreaming Of A Career In The Music Industry?

AUDIO ENGINEERING CLASSES Music Recording, Mixing, Pro Tools, Studio Production

Classes offered in Jan., Apr. and Sept.

(910) 681-0220 or mixmama.com Want To Get The Word Out About Your Business...

ADVERTISE ON THE

CORKBOARD ONLY $100

4WEEKS -

Call 791-0688 For Details

NEW

CANNABIS HYPNOTHERAPY NOW AVAILABLE! CALL: 910-343-1171 Find Out What All the Buzz is About!

STRIPTEASES cost a lot more than a good meal at the Brewery $6.99 Lunches, $8.99 Dinners.

Front Street Brewery 910.251.1935 9 North Front Street, Downtown Wilmington FrontStreetBrewery.com

CUSTOM TILE

Installation & Repairs

•Kitchens •Bathrooms •Entryways •Fireplaces •And More

Decadence from start to finish...

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY! GIFT CARDS ON SALE NOW!

WITH THREE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU...

Monkey Junction 5226 S. College Road Suite 5 Wilmington, NC 28412 910-799-7077 Porters Neck 140 Hays Lane #140 Wilmington, NC 28411 910-681-1140 Waterford 143 Poole Road Belville, NC 28451 910-399-6739

e

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

e

VOTED BEST SEAFOOD BY ENCORE, STAR NEWS AND WILMINGTON MAGAZINE

Free Estimates

910-616-0470

encore | december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 47

SOUTHERN SOUL FOOD AT I T S F I N E S T

RECOGNIZED BY YAHOO TRAVEL AS THE BEST BUFFET IN NORTH CAROLINA!

WE ALSO DO CATERING!

5559 Oleander drive • 910.798.2913

Wednesday-Saturday 11am-9pm • Sunday 11am- 8pm • Closed - Monday and Tuesday Visit our website - www.CaseysBuffet.com

WINNER OF BEST BUFFET, FRIED CHICKEN AND SOUL FOOD 48 encore |december 27, 2017 - january 9, 2018 | www.encorepub.com