January 15-21, 2020

/ PUB. • THE FEAR’S ALTERNATIVE VOICE 35 YEARS • JANUARY 15-21, 2020 FREEFREE VOL.VOL. 36 /36 PUB. 26 •28 THE CAPECAPE FEAR’S ALTERNATIVE VOICE FOR FOR 35 YEARS • DECEMBER 25-January 7, •2020

encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 1

HODGE PODGE Vol. 36/Pub. 28 January 15-21, 2020

ENCOREPUB.COM encoredeals.com

word of the week STALKWARDNESS (N) The feeling of awkwardness that occurs when you meet someone you’ve already stalked on social media.

“There was more than a little stalkwarndess when she met Jim, considering she’d already seen him half-naked on Instagram.”

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief:

Shea Carver >> shea@encorepub.com

Staff Editors:

Shannon Rae Gentry >> shannon@encorepub.com Jeff Oloizia >> jeffrey@encorepub.com

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MUSIC pg. 16 • By Jeff Oloizia

By S han non Rae Gen try

While North Carolina band Mipso has spread their wings wide on the national stage, they’ll return to Wilmington’s BAC this Friday night. Courtesy photo

COVER STORY • pg. 36 Women Organizing for Wilmington (WoW!) will host this year’s Women’s March and Rally in two parts and feature more than a dozen speakers, including female candidates in 2020 NC and New Hanover County elections.

Cover image by Emily Caulfield and above photo by Tom Dorgan

win of the week

THEATRE pg. 25 • By Gwenyfar Rohler Ashley Strand shines in Alchemical Theatre Company’s ‘King James Live’ at Ronald Sachs on Castle Street. Courtesy photo

Susie Riddle >> ads@encorepub.com

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Megan Henry >> megan@encorepub.com John Hitt >> john@encorepub.com Shea Carver >> shea@encorepub.com Brian Venegas >> brian@encorepub.com Published weekly on Wednesday by HP Media; opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of encore.

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ALSO INSIDE THIS WEEK P.O. Box 12430, Wilmington, N.C. 28405 encorepub.com • (910) 791-0688

DINING REVIEW pg. 32 • Joan CW Hoffman No one is clinking glasses for the new wine tariffs, which will likely impact many local businesses. Photo by Magda Ehlers from Pexels

Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • News of the Weird, pg. 6 • Op Ed, pg. 8 • Music, pgs. 12-17 • Art, pg. 18 • Gallery Guide, pg. 19 Film, pg. 21 • Theatre, pg. 25 • Dining, pgs. 26-32 • Books, pg. 34 • Extra, pg. 36 • Calendar, pgs.38-53 • Crossword, pg. 55

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TWISTING

COMMON CAUSE Chubby Checker will perform as part of a fundraiser at Blockade Runner on January 31.

CHANGE

Photo courtesy of Shelly Field Organization.

Chubby Checker joins other stars for a fundraiser against gerrymandering

“T

wist again? Like we did last millennium?”

Jock postulated. “No, that doesn’t scan right, does it?”

“No, sweetheart.” I shook my head.

“And, of course, the idea is to move voting forward in North Carolina, not backward.”

We were discussing the news that Chubby Checker—yes the Chubby Checker of “The Twist” fame—is coming to perform at Blockade Runner in Wrightsville Beach.

It’s a fundraiser for Common Cause North Carolina’s campaign to end gerrymandering. That might sound like a surprising combination at first, but the more I learned and thought about the announcement, the more it seemed to fit together.

Gerrymandering is the process of manipulating electoral maps so politicians choose their voters rather than voters choosing representatives. The word comes from the Massachusetts election of 1812.

In spite of an amazing record during the Revolution, plus having signed the Declaration of Independence and championed the Bill of Rights, Governor Elbridge Gerry is remembered as the man who created districts for the purpose of serving political ends rather than representing the democracy he dedicated so much of his life creating. His name, Gerry (technically, pronounced with a hard “r” but which has soft-

ened over the years), is linked with the image of a salamander because the district created was so misshapen, it looked like a salamander on the map. The resulting cartoon published at the time sealed his moniker and enshrined him forever in infamy.

As I mentioned in a column last September: Civics class taught us the Constitution provides for a census to be taken, partly to apportion political representation. In this day and age, there are numerous ways to track data: drivers licenses, college enrollment, arrest records, property records ... the list goes on and on. Drawing and redrawing

islative maps the court ruled to be unconstitutional was the now-deceased Thomas B. Hofeller. Since his death, Hofeller’s archives have begun to reveal the extent of his impact on our legislative process. His daughter has been making headlines by posting the contents of his digital files online (thehofellerfiles.com). Admittedly, as of press, I have only had the briefest glimpse of the site—but wow! Stephanie Hofeller states very clearly

“Only through art can we emerge from ourselves and know what another person sees.”

—Marcel Proust district maps to benefit one group or another, or “gerrymandering,” is effective as ever.

In North Carolina a three-judge panel ruled the first week of September that district maps have to be redrawn and in full public view. The mastermind behind the leg-

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she is choosing to make all this information public because it belongs to “We The People” (her words) and not to the GOP, who paid her father to collect it and manipulate it on their behalf.

National Public Radio reported on January

BY GWEN

YFAR RO

HLER

5 that in 2018 Stephanie Hofeller contacted Common Cause North Carolina, seeking a referral for a lawyer for her widowed mother. Common Cause was pursuing a lawsuit over the North Carolina Legislative Districts at the time. They won the case, partly because of the information brought to light by Stephanie from her father’ files—and, so, the districts were re-drawn last winter.

Still, the gerrymandering Issue is far from resolved, here or nationally.

Common Cause was formed in 1970 by John W. Gardner, a Republican who served in President Lyndon B. Johnson’s cabinet. It was instrumental in the passage of the 26th Amendment to the US Constitution: “The right of citizens of the United States, who are 18 years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of age.”

In other words: If you are old enough to

fight and die for your country, you should be able to vote and participate in your country’s affairs. That was 1971; the draft for Vietnam was in full effect. Now Common Cause work focuses on election transparency, fairness, and trying to end gerrymandering. Of course, this includes fundraising because legal action costs money.

In theory a good fundraiser nets a profit, and gives the recipient an opportunity to make a case for their work—to an audience that ranges from long-time supporters to first-timers. Putting together a compelling fundraiser is not an easy task, but, for a great intersection of civics and the arts, Wilmingtonians shall look no further than Ray Kennedy. Locals and folks around the state have been treated to a very special production of Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone’s musical “1776,� depicting the events of the Continental Congress in an immersive setting, directed by Kennedy and produced jointly by Positive Impact, Opera House Theater Company and Foundation Forward, Inc. “Through my work with Positive Impact World, I met the team at Common Cause earlier this year,� Kennedy tells encore. “I have always been interested in politics and supporting and talking to our leaders, and as a history buff, ‘1776’ is one of my favorite musicals. With recent court rulings, anti-gerrymandering and Common Cause have been in the news.�

The time seemed ripe for a spectacular

event. After years in the entertainment business, including working with the USO and producing cruise-line entertainment, Kennedy has great connections. He has assembled an amazing roster for a fundraising event on January 31, 2020. NaTasha Yvette Williams, the Broadway star featured in “Waitress� and “Chicago�; JeRenae Raeford, first runnerup and talent winner for Miss North Carolina 2019; and Elisa Smith, award-winning actress and vocalist. The biggest news is they will join Chubby Checker to support Common Cause North Carolina. “Yes, the real Chubby Checker—Billboard’s number-one recording artists of all time,�

Kennedy assures.

Apparently, Mr. Checker got in touch through mutual friends. “He wanted to be involved with the event for Common Cause,� Kennedy notes.

Mr. Checker was born in South Carolina, not far from Pawley’s Island; though, he grew up primarily in the Philadelphia area.

His daughter, WNBA player, Mistie Bass, played for the women’s basketball team at Duke (2002-2006). Williams also has North Carolina connections. The Broadway star grew up in Fayetteville, NC. Kennedy points to her roster of accomplishments, including “The Wiz� and “Porgy and Bess.� She is currently playing Mama Morton in “Chicago.� “She is a great friend and believes in Common Cause and how they are giving people their voice back in politics,� Kennedy notes.

DETAILS COMMON CAUSE NC FUNDRAISER January 31, 3-5 p.m. Featuring NaTasha Yvette Williams, JeRenae Raeford and Elisa Smith Dennis Hopper Apartment, Historic Downtown 20 Wrights Alley January 31, 6:30-9 p.m. Featuring a live performance by Chubby Checker, plus NaTasha Yvette Williams, JeRenae Raeford and Elisa Smith Blockade Runner Beach Resort, 275 Waynick Boulevard, Wrightsville Beach $25-$100 commoncause.org/north-carolina/ events/ “It is a bipartisan issue, and the people I have met are independents, Republicans and Democrats, all with a ‘common� goal.’�

Folks who attend the January 31 fundrais-

er will also meet the Common Cause leadership, including its national president, Karen Hobert Flynn .Booze will flow and decadent food from Blockade Runner will be available in abundance. But the purpose of the evening is to inspire people “to participate, learn and take action,� according to Kennedy. “Gerrymandering is wrong—and neither party nor politicians should be drawing voting maps. North Carolina is one of the key places in the country where votes have been diluted and Common Cause wants elections fair for both parties.�

Though Common Cause won the most recent court battle regarding North Carolina legislative maps, the fight is far from over. The Raleigh News and Observer reports when new US Congressional maps are drawn after the next census, North Carolina is expected to pick up a 14th Congressional seat. Anyone with questions about what that process will look like and who may be concerned the maps are fair to all North Carolinians should attend the fundraiser. Art can facilitate people meeting, talking and connecting. Kennedy is providing the perfect evening for all elements to merge and forge lasting partnerships.

In addition to joining Common Cause on the 31, the most important thing anyone can do is register to vote and exercise that right at the poll. People are fighting to make your vote count. The North Carolina primary election is coming up March 3, 2020. Show up to the polls this time and every time.

Stalk + Vine

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the horse and buggy they were riding in.

When deputies pulled them over, they gave bogus ages and would not confirm their names, authorities said, yet the men appeared to be inebriated, and a search of the buggy turned up empty alcohol containers along with unopened ones. Levei Mast, 20; Andrew Zook, 19; Joseph Miller, 20; and Joseph Troyer, 19, each paid a $700 fine and $150 in court costs. They have yet to face the bishop. [Midland Daily News, 1/8/2020]

NEXT, ON ‘DATELINE’

LEAD STORY Police in Wichita Falls, Texas, say they responded to a report on January 5 that Christopher Ragsdale choked and headbutted his unnamed girlfriend after she complained about his odorous gas. “She told Christopher that his fart smelled horrible and he got mad and grabbed her by the hair and pulled her to the ground,” the Associated Press quoted the arrest affidavit. The alter-

cation took place at a friend’s house, and that friend called police. Ragsdale was held on $10,000. [Associated Press, 1/8/2020]

QUESTIONABLE JUDGMENT Four Amish men pleaded guilty in Gladwin County (Michigan) District Court on January 8 to charges stemming from an earlier incident in Beaverton Township. According to the Midland Daily News, deputies from the Gladwin County Sheriff’s office responded on December 29 to a call from a concerned motorist who observed the four men tossing empty beer cans from

Colleagues of 35-year-old paramedic Joshua Lee Hunsucker told investigators in Mount Holly, North Carolina, they were surprised at how quickly he had another girlfriend following the death of his wife in September 2018. When Stacy Robinson Hunsucker’s mother shared her suspicions, pointing to the $200,000 in life insurance Joshua had collected, agents of the North Carolina Department of Insurance began an investigation that led to Joshua Hunsucker’s arrest on December 19, charged with first-degree murder for poisoning his wife with Visine, according to prosecutors. Stacy Hunsucker, 32 at her death, had suffered from heart problems, the Gaston Gazette reported, and a test of her blood revealed tetrahydrozoline, a chemical found in eye drops and nasal sprays, at levels 30 to 40 times the recommended dose, an amount insurance fraud attorney Jordan Green told the court would have had “a dramatic effect on her heart, which would cause heart stoppage in a short amount of time.”

The Gazette also noted the wide news coverage given two weeks before Stacy’s death to a woman arrested in York, South Carolina, for putting eye drops in her husband’s water, causing a seizure and cardiac arrest. A Gaston County grand jury on January 6 additionally indicted Hunsucker on charges of insurance fraud. [Gaston Gazette, 12/20/2020, 1/8/2020]

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The father of a 3-year-old girl in Guilin, China, is paying the price for his toddler’s creative expression. On November 24, the man, identified only as Mr. Zhao, his wife and daughter visited an Audi dealership, Oddity Central reported. As the adults looked around, the bored girl scratched “artwork” into 10 automobiles, including one valued at more than $140,000. The dealership sued the father for $28,400 over the damage caused. Eventually, Mr. Zhao and the dealership settled on a payment of $10,000. [Oddity Central, 12/12/2019]

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Japenese Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi 6 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

RUNNER-UP BEST JAPANESE

After Dona Maria Schiave failed her driver’s license test three times in the Novo Mutum Parana district of Brazil, her son, Heitor Marcio Schiave, 43, decided to take matters into his own hands. On December 10, he donned a stuffed bra, long skirt and make-

up and showed up at the State Department of Traffic, claiming to be his mother, ready to take the test again. Aline Mendoca, the examiner, became suspicious and summoned the military police. “I thought she was drunk at first,” she told globo.com.

“When I realized that the student was actually a man, I decided to proceed normally” and wait for officers. “I think he pitied his mother for failing three times.” Schiave was arrested for fraudulent misrepresentation and released; he may face a fine. [globo. com, 12/11/2019]

THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS Kari and Dustin Drees bought their first home In Atlanta’s Buckhead district in December and shortly thereafter left on vacation to visit family. While they were gone, an alarm went off, and friends reported nothing was amiss, but when the Dreeses returned home, they discovered an uninvited visitor had moved in: a squirrel. The animal had apparently fallen down the chimney and become trapped inside, where it did a lot of damage—defecating, scratching floors, chewing baseboards and building a nest in the couch. No worries, the couple thought: “This is why you have homeowner’s insurance,” Kari told the Associated Press. Not so fast: The couple’s insurance “explicitly stated” it doesn’t cover damage done by rodents, and a squirrel is a rodent. Small comfort: The company did offer to provide housing for the couple for up to two weeks.

[Associated Press, 1/7/2020]

YOU CAN’T MAKE THIS UP Odis Latham, 47, and Russell Sparks, 48, of Columbus, Mississippi, were arrested on January 6 after they allegedly hatched a cockamamie scheme to “win” the lottery, WLBT reported. The two arrived at the Mississippi Lottery Corp. in Flowood and presented a losing $100,000 ticket upon which they had glued the winning numbers, according to authorities. Flowood police arrested the pair, who were charged with conspiracy to commit a felony and uttering a counterfeit instrument over $1,000. They were held without bond. [WLBT, 1/6/2020]

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT Mike Parrish of Woodfin, North Carolina, is making fantasy a reality with a “Lord of the Rings” hobbit home he’s building to offer on Airbnb. “I’m not just a casual fan.

I’m a huge fan,” Parrish said as he guided WLOS through the 800-square-foot “Unexpected Journey,” built 90% underground with one bedroom, one bathroom, a kitchen and round doorways crafted by local woodworker John Fenwick. “What we want is to just have an area where people can come and bring their kids and just leave with an unforgettable experience,” Parrish said. The home should be ready to rent in February or March; Parrish and his wife have not set a per-night rate yet. [WLOS, 12/27/2019]

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ROLLING THE

BY MARK BASQUILL

I

stopped for coffee days after a drone strike killed Iranian general Soleimani. A man in his mid-60s wearing a Vietnam veteran baseball cap sat in a booth reading the StarNews.

“That’s what I’m talking ‘bout; I wish he’d been with us in Vietnam. We’d have nuked them good!”

One young woman “tsked.”

I stood speechless, remembering the Battle of the Boardwalk.

When my coffee-shop veteran earned his cap, the North Vietnamese held Senator John McCain captive and Robert Mueller led Marines on Mutter’s Ridge. Rather than fight beside my coffee-shop friend, Ol’ 45 stayed home and studied the mystical ways of the Boardwalk Warrior.

Senator John McCain was considered a maverick for not goose-stepping to wars or signing off on torture with the rest of his party, but for decades after Vietnam he followed the script of many prior combatants turned statesmen. Robert Mueller languished in near obscurity, reading and enforcing laws written by others. In Ol’ 45’s book, both are “Losers.”

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DICE

Do we follow a hero of the Battle of the Boardwalk?

serving a more politically divided and less trusting country and government than the Nixon era.

I love that my friends have kids in the 82nd Airborne, in Marine Rapid Response units, on Navy ships, in the Air Force and in the Coast Guard. But it’s dangerous that trust in government has plummeted so much over the half-century since Vietnam.

It’s even worse that trust in Ol’ 45 is minimal. Despite George W. Bush’s ineloquence, and my opposition to most of his policies, I trusted he had what he saw as America’s interest at heart.

Most of America supported Bush entering Afghanistan after 9/11. Americans reluctantly supported Cheney invading Iraq in 2003. Even though I opposed Cheney’s plan of world domination, I trusted he had a plan that may have included America’s interest in a tiny sliver of his heart. The only thing I trust about Ol’ 45 is he has been rolling the dice for decades.

Winners write their own scripts. In Ol’ 45’s script, he stars as the hero of the Battle of the Boardwalk. After earning his stripes in skirmishes against the Fair Housing Act in Brooklyn, he entered the Battle of the Boardwalk. In the 1980s and ‘90s in Atlantic City, he fearlessly accrued debt, failed to pay contractors and ferociously fought taxes. He courageously allowed a half-built wreck of a casino to rust on the boardwalk until his courtroom enemies in Jersey capitulated. He demonstrated reckless disregard for collateral damage to the livelihood of common men, whole communities and the environment. He unhesitatingly twisted every line of bankruptcy law to ensure “winning.”

I’m not the only one that has trust issues with Ol’ 45’s leadership. Trust is so minimal he has been impeached. His dwindling supporters still shout that impeachment was a political stunt by a minority of Democrats, yet the pertinent facts are that a majority in Congress impeached him for abusing his power. He got 3 million less votes than his opponent in the 2016 election, and over half of the citizenry considers him untrustworthy and self-serving on most issues.

My Vietnam veteran friend may admire Ol’ 45’s shock-jock bravado and willingness to roll the dice, but I can’t get past the observation that Ol’ 45 studied foreign policy under cocktail waitresses and forged his current Patton-like persona on the same boardwalk as carnival-barkers and craps dealers. Does Ol’ 45’s military judgement deserve any more trust than a craps dealer?

For the good of the country and safety of our military sons and daughters, I hope Ol’ 45’s most recent roll of the dice pays off. If it doesn’t, do we really believe America will want to pull together to fight a common enemy under his reign? A more heart-wrenching question: Do we really want to sacrifice anyone’s son or daughter in Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, or even Fort Fisher under the hero of the Battle of the Boardwalk?

I looked at my Vietnam veteran friend and envisioned the deeply divided country, disrespect and distrust in leadership he returned to in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Unbelievably, today’s military is

I picked up my coffee. Although I disagree wholeheartedly with my veteran friend’s support of Ol’ 45, I nodded to him in respect to his sacrifices for our nation: “Thank you for your service.”

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TELL ME SOMETHING, BOY Wilmington singer-songwriter Travis Shallow plays Waterline with Bob Russell on January 18.

Courtesy photo

SOUND

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15 Tidal Creek Open Mic (6pm; free) Tidal Creek Co-Op, 5329 Oleander Drive. #100

Wine Down Wednesday & Karaoke (8PM; FREE)

Local’s Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd.

Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

Maximum Overdrive; 70’s Hard Rock Party [8pm; free]

JV Flanagan and Jeff Gover [7pm]

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, 111 Grace St.

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N.

Justin Jernigan [9pm] Katy’s Grill and Bar, 1054 S. College Rd.

Benny Hill [7pm] Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavilion Pl.

Music Bingo with DJ Sherri [7pm; free]

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 LGBTQ Karaoke + Gaming Night (7pm; free)

Bottega, 723 N. Fourth St.

Circus Industry Night [3PM] Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Chris Luther (6pm; free; Solo Jazz Guitar)

Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shiyard Blvd.

Tarantelli’s, 102 So. 2nd St.

Music Bingo w/DJ Sherri [7pm; free]

Justin Jernigan [6pm]

Courtyard Grill, 3317 Masonboro Loop Rd.

Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

Jenny Pearson [7pm]

List your live music, trivia and open mic nights

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12 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

Paula and Angie [6:30pm]

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N.

Trivia from Hell’s [7:30PM; FREE] Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

Rockin’ Trivia w/ Party Gras Entertainment [8PM; FREE] Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Drive

Thirsty thursday (10pm; free) Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

www.encorepub.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 Emily Musolino [6pm]

Moe’s Original BBQ, 5818 Oleander Dr.

Opera Room, 119 Grace St.

Katy’s Grill and Bar, 1054 S. College Rd.

Paula and Angie [6:30pm]

Lisette [3pm]

Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shiyard Blvd.

Bottega, 723 N. Fourth St.

Post Belly Dance Syrian / Persian / Egyptian Dub Swing DJ [11pm]

Arcanum Experience [7pm; $25; sound healing]

Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Jeremy Mathews Live! [7pm; free]

Terra Sol Sanctuary, 507 Castle St.

The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

Nimara and The Way Back [7pm]

Pete Pawsey [7pm]

Live at Ted’s, 2 Castle St.

1423 S. 3rd St. DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON (910) 763-1607

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19

Tuesday __________________________________________ $ 50

KARAOKE

w/DJ Damo, 9PM

Live at Ted’s, 2 Castle St.

Saturday Night Contra Dance [7:30pm; $10]

Books, Beer, and Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (3pm; free)

Chanticleer [7:30pm; $18-$52]

5th Ave United Methodist Church, 409 S 5th Ave.

Old Books on Front Street, 249 N. Front St.

Paula and Angie [8:15, 9:45, and 11:15am]

TRIVIA

Mike Blair [8pm; free]

Mike Blair [8pm; free]

Edward Teach Brewing, 604 N 4th St.

New Anthem Beer Project, 110 Greenfield St., Suite 100

Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shiyard Blvd.

Friday & Saturday __________________________

The Wilson Center, 703 N. Third St.

Mipso with Bridget Kearney and Benjamin Lazar Davis [8pm; $25-$35]

Seth Kibel and The Kleztet [11am; $10]

Emily Musolino [8pm]

Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Edward Teach Brewing, 604 N 4th St.

Phil Kelly and The Wandering Minds [4pm]

The Cut [8pm]

TreeHouse! [8pm]

Live at Ted’s, 2 Castle St.

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N.

The Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.

Emily Musolino [5pm]

Soul-R Fusion [8pm]

Dockside Restaurant and Bar, 1308 Airlie Rd.

Clay Whittington [9pm]

Fermental, 7250 Market St.

Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

Travis Shallow Duo [8pm]

MONDAY, JANUARY 20

Josh Soloman [9pm]

Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry St.

Trivia Night at The Goat and Compass (6pm; free)

The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St.

Lees Cut [8pm]

Goat & Compass, 710 N Fourth St.

Jason Jackson Duo [9pm]

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N.

Trivia from hell’s (7:30pm; free)

Banks Channel, 530 Causeway Dr.

Backfire [9:30pm; free]

Matt Craine [8:30pm]

Anything Goes Open Stage (8pm; free)

Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

Locals Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd #9

The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Into The Fog [10pm; $5]

Signal Fire and TreeHouse! [9pm]

Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N. 4th Str.

Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

The Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 21

Steel County Express [10pm]

Thirsty Curses [9pm]

Trivia & Taco Tues. w/ Sherri ‘So Very!’ (7pm; free)

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

Local’s Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd.

Adam Carlise [9pm]

Monica Hoelscher [7pm]

The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St.

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

Jeremy Mathews and The Yard Doggs [9:30pm]

Opera Room Matinee [12pm; $5]

THURSDAY

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> > > Tuesday $3.75 Sweet Water $4.00 Absolute Lemon Drop

> > > WEDNESDAY $3.75 Wicked Weed $4.00 Margaritas

> > > FRIDAY $3.75 Pint of the Day $4.00 Fireball

LIVE MUSIC in the courtyard on Friday & Saturday MONDAY

$2.75 Domestic $3.50 Select Drafts $4 Fireballs!

> > > saturday

TUESDAY

$4.00 Green Tea

(Foothills Hoppyum IPA, Red Oak)

$3.50 Local Draft Brew

> > > SUNDAY

$5 Jameson

$5.00 Bloody Marys & Mimosas

WEDNESDAY

N. Water Street & Walnut street, Downtown Wilmington 910-762-4354

$3 Lagunitas $6 Knob Creek 1/2 price bottles of wine

FRIDAY

$3.00 Michelob Ultra $5.00 Lunazul Tequila All Floors open SATURDAY

$3 Miller Lite $3.50 Modelo $4 Smirnoff Lemon Drop shots $5 Raspberry Smirnoff w/mixer All Floors open SUNDAY

$3 Corona & Corona Light $4 Mimosa $4 Bloody Mary $5 Margarita

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

LIVE MUSIC 2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS

$ 00

Sunday ___________________________________________

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

The Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St. Wild Wing Cafe, 1331 Military Cutoff Rd.

2 KILLIANS • $400 MAGNERS

Your neighborhood drafthouse with a menu full of lowcountry favorites.

Join us for a hot meal and a cold pint.

40 BEERS ON TAP

#TAPTUESDAY...

THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK: $3 SELECT PINTS & TEAM TRIVIA 7324 Market Street • 910-821-8185 www.ogdentaproom.com OPEN 7 DAYS AWEEK

227 CAROLINA BEACH AVE N. (910) 707-0533 • seawitchtikibar.com

THIS WEEK AT THE WITCH WED 1/15 JV & JEFF 1/2 PRICE BAR

THUR 1/16

FRI 1/17 THE CUT

SAT 1/18 LEES CUT

JENNY PEARSON

www.RuckerJohns.com VISIT WWW.RUCKERJOHNS.COM FOR FRIDAY MONDAY DAILY SPECIALS, MUSIC & EVENTS Cosmopolitan $4.50 Select Appetizers 1/2 Off after MONDAY 5pm in bar and patio areas Watermelon Martini $6.50 DAYSeasonal Big Domestic22oz.

Draft Domestic Beers $2 Draft SamALL Adams Blue Pool Martini $6$5 Pizzas Bottles $3 TUESDAY TUESDAYSATURDAY Jack Be Chill $7.50 1/2 Off SelectLIVE Bottles of Wine IN THE JAzz BAR 22oz Deschutes Black Butte Absolute Dream $5 Bottles Half Price ofPorter Wine $5.50 $ 50 NC CraftAbsolut Bottles $3 5 • Pacifico 2 Willow Wit Dream $22oz Weeping WEDNESDAY Beer $5.50 WEDNESDAY 1/2 Off Nachos after 5pm 22oz $ 50 Edward Teach Peach in bar andMiller patio Light areas Pints

1 Coronoa/

$ 50 $5.50 Wheat Domestic Pints $1.50Lite Bottles 2 Corona SUNDAY Corona/Corona Lt. $2.50 Margaritas/Peach Margaritas $4 Margaritas on the Rocks $4.50 All Flat Breads $6 after 5pm THURSDAY in bar and patio areas THURSDAY $ $ $3 Mimosa Appletinis 4, RJ’s Painkiller 5 Truly Lime Spiked and $ 50 Mary $4 Bloddy 2 Red Stripe Bottles Sparkling Water $3 Domestic $ 50 Pints $1.50 2 Fat Tire Bottles 22oz. Tropical Lightning 5564 Carolina Beach Road IPA $5.50 FRIDAY(910)-452-1212 $ 50our website Sinking Bahama Mama $7 $4, 007Visit Cosmos 3 www.RuckerJohns.com $ 1/2 Off All Premium Guinnessfor Cans daily3specials, music and Red Wine Glasses upcoming events $

Island Sunsets 5 SATURDAY encore |15 november 2019 www.encorepub.com 13 encore | january - january6-12, 21,Baybreeze/Seabreeze 2020 || www.encorepub.com 13 $ 4

CHORUS LINE Grammy Award-winning classical vocal ensemble Chanticleer visits the Wilson Center January 17.

Courtesy photo

The Drum Circle [7:30PM; FREE] Bottega, 723 N. Fourth St.

The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St.

FREE) Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

The Spongebob Musical [7:30pm; $38]

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22

The Wilson Center, 703 N. Third St.

Tidal Creek Open Mic (6pm; free)

Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavilion Pl.

Anything Goes Open Stage (8pm; free)

Tidal Creek Co-Op, 5329 Oleander Drive. #100

Jason jackson duo [7pm]

The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle Street

Karaoke w/ DJ Damo (9pm; free)

Wine Down Wednesday & Karaoke (8PM;

14 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

Benny hill [7PM]

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N.

Mike Blair at Dockside [4pm; free] Dockside Restaurant and Bar, 1308 Airlie Rd.

Music Bingo with DJ Sherri [7pm; free] Localâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd.

Squidco presents Hooked on Sonics: Sonic Rainforest [8pm; $5] Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

COMPLEX RHYMES Hip-hop duo Blackalicious plays Durham’s Motorco Music Hall January 21.

DISCOVER NEW MUSIC AT 98.3 THE PENGUIN

Courtsy photo

PLAYLIST SAMPLE

THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837

REGIONAL

1/15: Donnie Baker 1/16: The Dead South 1/17: Hiss Golden Messenger 1/19: Grace Potter 1/20: BRB with Circle Verse 1/21: Cory Wong 1/22: The Music Circuit 1/23: Who’s Bad Presents The Evolution of Pop 1/24: Jake Shimabukuro 1/25: End of the Line - Allman Brothers Tribute

THE REEVES THEATER & CAFE 129 W. MAIN ST., ELKIN, NC (336) 258-8240 1/17: Ward Davis 1/18: Aaron Burdett 1/25: The Travelin’ McCourys

NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE N. DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298

1/16: Molly Hatchet 1/17: Citizen Cope 1/18: Hiss Golden Messenger 1/23: Marco Benevento 1/24: Road to Shakori: Unaka Prong + Vintage Pistols + Hustle Souls 1/25: Revelwood Mission

THE FILLMORE

820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 1/16: The Disco Biscuits 1/17: Grace Potter 1/18: Badfish 1/19: Blexit 1/24: The Devil Makes Three 1/25: Matoma & Two Friends

THE FILLMORE UNDERGROUND

820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 1/17: Case 1/18: The Dead South 1/19: American Authors and Magic Giant 1/24: Ripe 1/25: Drake Party

CONCERTS

DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 123 VIVIAN ST. DURHAM, NC (919) 688-3722 1/14-19: Come From Away 1/20: Neil deGrasse Tyson

LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111

1/16: Badfish 1/17: TURKUAZ w/ Neal Francis 1/18: Citizen Cope 1/24: American Aquarium’s “Roadtrip to Raleigh” w/ Futurebirds and Mike and the Moonpies 1/25: American Aquarium’s “Roadtrip to Raleigh” w/ Charley Crockett and Kelsey Waldon

BONNIE RAITT F. DELBERT MCCLINTON GOOD MAN, GOOD WOMAN BILLY STRINGS - WATCH IT FALL JACKSON BROWNE - THE PRETENDER DAVE BRUBECK - TAKE 5 JJ CALE - RIDE ME HIGH THE TALKING HEADS - TAKE ME TO THE RIVER MAVIS STAPLES - SLIPPERY PEOPLE BLACK PUMAS - COLORS

3/28 & 3/29 GLA

KT TUNSTALL

4/26 GLA

CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053

1/16: Quetico 1/17: Mo Lowda & The Humble 1/18-19: Django Reinhardt Festival 1/21: Tall Heights 1/24: Illiterate Light 1/25: Road to Shakori: Unaka Prong, Hustle Souls, Vintage Pistols

KHRUANGBIN F. LEON BRIDGES - TEXAS SUN GRACE POTTER F. LUCIUS - BACK TO ME FRUITION - DAWN LANA DEL REY - MARINER'S APARTMENT COMPLEX

DARK STAR ORCHESTRA

1/15: The Monti Storyslam - Resolutions 1/16: Michal Menert, Late Night Radio 1/17: Carbon Leaf 1/18: Beth Stelling 1/21: Blackalicious 1/23-25: Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana

CAT’S CRADLE BACK ROOM 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053

NEW MUSIC ADDED

UPCOMING PENGUIN SHOWS

MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE, DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875

1/17: Cosmic Charlie 1/18: American Authors, Magic Giant 1/20: Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven 1/21: Too Many Zooz 1/22: Marco Benevento 1/25: The Road to Now

PRETTY LIGHTS - FINALLY MOVING ST. GERMAIN F. JOHN LEE HOOKER - SURE THING

PAUL CAUTHEN (BOURGIE NIGHTS 2/21) SOLD OUT!

DARK STAR ORCHESTRA (GLA 3/28 & 3/29) KT TUNSTALL (GLA 4/26)

SPECIALTY SHOWS:

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

WWW.983THEPENGUIN.COM encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 15

TAR HEEL PRIDE Chapel Hill Americana quartet Mipso is made up of former UNC classmates (from left) Wood Robinson, Joseph Terrell, Libby Rodenbough, and Jacob Sharp.

Photo by Kendall Bailey

STRING

BY JEFF OLOIZIA

T

he members of Americana outfit Mipso have come a long way from playing campus parties in Chapel Hill.

Comprising UNC alums Jacob Sharp (mandolin, vocals), Joseph Terrell (guitar, vocals), Libby Rodenbough (fiddle, vocals) and Wood Robinson (bass, vocals), the band plays Brooklyn Arts Center Friday night as part of a 10-city tour promoting its critically-acclaimed 2018 album, “Edges Run.” The shows follow 2019’s extensive European tour, and the surprise single, “People Change,” racking up over 54 million streams on Spotify. But, as is the case for most bands, success wasn’t always so.

Founding members Sharp and Terrell met as high school seniors, while playing hooky from a tour of the UNC campus.

“We were both similarly disinterested,” Sharp jokes. After discovering they had a shared love of music, they ended up jamming that very afternoon. “Our entire college experience was defined by that relationship,” Sharp says.

Both Sharp and Terrell ended up taking a gap year before starting school.

While away, they would send each other songs. “We were like musical pen pals,” Sharp says. When they returned, they began playing campus open-mic nights as an acoustic duo. Not content to be just another college band, they approached bassist Wood Robinson, with whom Terrell had previously played in the band Funkasorus Rex. As Mipso trio, they soon began selling out the 750-seat Cat’s Cradle in Carrboro. In 2013, they embarked upon a tour of Japan. The next year, they added Rodenbough on fiddle, and the current lineup was set.

Sharp credits fellow Triangle-based acts, such as Mandolin Orange and Megafaun, for helping bring them along.

“The scene felt pretty robust,” he says.

DETAILS MIPSO w/ Bridget Kearney and Benjamin Lazar Davis Friday, January 17, 8 p.m.

Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N. 4th St. $25-35 • brooklynartsnc.com Those bands did more than welcome them into the fold: Mandolin Orange’s Andrew Marlin produced Mipso’s first two alums, and Megafaun’s Brad Cook produced the band’s third album, “Coming Down the Mountain.” According to Sharp, it was initially intimidating to work with musicians they had admired for so long, but, ultimately, the collaborations made them feel they belonged.

“There was a learning curve on how to feel confident and comfortable with [these people],” Sharp tells. “I think the fact we were able to—in large part because of how gracious and open the scene is—is a big part of why we stuck around.”

Eventually, though, the band had to spread its wings. In 2017, feeling the need for a change, they left the relative comfort of North Carolina to record with producer Todd Sickafoose (Ani DiFranco, Anaïs Mitchell) in Eugene, Oregon. Whereas Mipso’s earlier records were more or less fully formed when entering the studio, the band arrived in Eugene with only rough outlines of what they hoped to accomplish. Sickafoose—an accomplished bass player and keyboardist in his own right—

16 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

helped with arrangements and pushed the band out of their comfort zone.

“Those early experiences working with Brad [Cook] and Andrew [Marlin] were awesome and definitely big milestones for us,” Sharp says. “But I think we felt like it would be nice to hole away somewhere with somebody who was somewhat foreign to us, and see how that could challenge us to grow in a different way.”

The single “People Change” is a good example of that growth. On its face, the wistful, acoustic ballad is an unorthodox choice for a single—so much so Sharp, who wrote it, wasn’t even sure it was strong enough to be on the record. Even after the song was selected to appear in the trailer for the film “The Tomorrow Man,” starring John Lithgow and Blythe Danner, Sharp continues to be surprised by its success. “It’s not exactly a pumpedup singalong, so I was like, I don’t know if we’ll play it every night.” As fans have begun sharing what the song means to them over email and after shows, it’s taken on an important role in the band’s set.

“It’s been really meaningful alongside the Spotify numbers and success to see that that’s one of the tunes that really consistently has a big impact on people.”

The band is excited to perform new material, too, thanks in large part to several different North Carolina writing retreats: at a friend’s farm outside Chapel Hill, at Sharp’s family’s home on Lake James, and on Ocracoke Island and at various band members houses around the Triangle. They have whittled down 30 new songs to a more manageable 14, due for release later in the year. While the band is mum about details, the single “Get Out While You Can,” released in 2018, may offer some hint of what to expect. A rerecording of “Get Out,” from Mipso’s 2013 album, “Dark Holler Pop,” it features the quartet’s trademark harmonies, while expanding its palette by adding driving per-

THEORY

Mipso brings plaintive, acoustic folk to the BAC cussion and electric guitar.

“We have those musical tools at our fingertips now,” Sharp tells. “We didn’t when we wrote it. [Plus,] the era we’re in necessitated a more aggressive reinterpretation.”

He is speaking of life under President Trump. Mipso wrote and recorded much of “Edges Run” in the shadow of the 2016 election and finished on Inauguration Day. “[The new album is] about how it is that you breathe from that shadow, and what it feels like to see your life take some turns,” Sharp says. That means continuing to find a way to inspire, even if the material itself takes on a darker sheen. “If part of the existential struggle is to find joy within the shadows, we want to find that in the music as well.”

Opening for Mipso at BAC is the duo of Bridget Kearney and Benjamin Lazar Davis. Kearney should be familiar to Wilmington audiences; as the bass player for Lake Street Dive, she visited a sold-out Greenfield Lake Amphitheater last October. Kearney and Davis’ story is similar to that of the members of Mipso: They have been friends and collaborators since meeting at the New England Conservatory in 2004 and released an EP together in 2015. A full-length album is expected later this year.

“I’m definitely hoping that some of the Lake Street Dive fans get to see [Bridget] in a different light through this show,” Sharp says.

JAZZED FOR DIY ALBUMS Adam Fenton celebrates Water Wingz debut EP at Modern Legend, featuring guest players.

Courtesy photo

CREATING

BY SHANNON RAE GENTRY

“I

like the idea of concept albums,” Water Wingz’s Adam Fenton muses. “One of my favorites, actually, is tattooed on me: ‘Animals’

by This Town Needs Guns.”

With song titles like “Chinchilla,” “Baboon,” “Pig,” “Zebra,” “Animals” was what the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist had in mind (if only subconsciously) when making his debut EP, “Sick Songs.” Each of the EP’s six songs undercuts the one that precedes it: “Alive Song” is immediately followed by “Dead Song,” “Late Night Song” by “Morning Song,” and “Nature Song” by “City Song.”

“For whatever reason I’m really attracted to the idea of those opposites,” Fenton tells. “I think it’s interesting to think about music that fits in the morning and music that fits at nighttime. Or, like in ‘Nature’ and ‘City,’ how certain music makes you think of woods and mountains, and certain music makes you think of concrete and buildings.”

Heavily influenced by jazz, punk and ‘70s and ’80s pop, Fenton’s DIY passion project will be available for purchase at Saturday’s Water Wingz EP release show at Modern Legend. Cassette copies of “Sick Songs” will be available for $5; each comes with a digital download of the album.

“Stevie Wonder is a huge inspiration to me, and I really love how he writes about political stuff because he’s very on the nose,” Fenton explains. “‘Love’s in Need of Love Today’ is one of my favorite ex-

WATER WINGZ with Grey Oakes Saturday, January 18, 8 p.m.

Modern Legend,130 N. Front St. Suggested Donation: $5

amples of just how he’s not calling out anybody in particular, or making some huge political statement, all he’s really saying is we need more love. I think that’s something really difficult to argue with.”

Fenton is trying to write more literally and pointed in his own work, too. Water Wingz will include the as-yet-unrecorded “Describe the Light” in this weekend’s set. It’s a timely tune, as it covers ideas of peace, war and fighting.

In addition to writing the lyrics and music for “Sick Songs,” Fenton also played bass, guitar, drums and keys. Fenton started playing piano at 4. Middle school led him to take drum lessons and pick up a guitar as well.

“I actually learned a lot from other kids who were better at guitar than me,” Fenton quips, “and a big thing for me was when my dad would take me to open mics around Raleigh when I was 12 or 13. That was really formative because I got to jam with older musicians and see how it felt to play with a band and feed off other people’s energy.”

It was during this time, too, Fenton was introduced to the hard-hitting sound and drive of punk, the epitome of DIY—from

“Punk is a big part of my musical and spiritual background,” he says. “I think everything important is self-taught.”

Fenton then discovered jazz by 18—not necessarily traditional or swing jazz at first, but jazz-inspired music by the likes of D’Angelo, Steely Dan, Erykah Badu and Kendrick Lamar, especially the rapper’s 2015 album, “To Pimp A Butterfly.” This led him down the proverbial rabbit hole of jazz and its many layers.

While Fenton is a fan of many classically trained artists, he admits, he’s a bit disillusioned by the academic jazz of conservatories, where the music feels “sterilized” and “traditionalist.” “And I think with the internet you can learn almost anything you want about jazz,” he continues, “if you have the passion and drive to do so.”

The now 23-year-old moved to Wilmington in April 2019. Here, he found, supportive talents and collaborations abound. In fact, most of Fenton’s cohorts are UNCW jazz students or alumni, or musicians he met at Burnt Mill Creek’s Sunday jazz jams while playing piano. It’s where he connected with trombone player Jim Lane, who also is featured on “Sick Songs.”

“Even when I was recording the record I was getting a lot of help—as listed in the credits,” Fenton offers. “For example, I don’t play a horn, so I’m not very good at writing music for horn. So [Jim] helped write music charts. Unfortunately, he can’t make it for the show [at Modern Legend].”

The EP’s track “Alive Song” features lead vocals from Bella Mead of Luna and the Lush; however, Jess Coppola will sing the part this Saturday, along with other harmonies. There’s also a surprise cover song in the works, and Water Wingz will debut “Face It.” Fenton says the song is about obsessing over relationships and

CONCEPTS

Water Wingz release concept EP, play Modern Legend how they can become toxic.

“I tend to neglect myself and my own needs,” he details, “and [being] in search of some fantasy storybook relationship, and me dealing with how I feel an American being inundated by Lifetime, and just movies and TV in general, with this concept of happily ever after and coping and dealing with that and how it’s not real and it never works like that.”

GIVE US A TRY...

! s l a e d .com

Fenton was born in Washington Heights in New York City. His actor parents continued to perform in local theatre when the family moved to Chapel Hill. While his was not necessarily a musical family, Fenton was raised listening to his songwriting heroes: Elton John, David Bowie, Billy Joel, Frank Zappa, Joni Mitchell and James Taylor.

DETAILS

musicians cutting their own records to making their own merch to booking tours without labels or management.

Buyers save, businesses soar!

encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 17

PATHWAY TO CREATIVE OUTPUT The ACL rail bed, from downtown to McRae Street, will transform into the Wilmington Rail Trail, featuring green space, public arts and event space, and a pedestrian pathway.

Photo courtesy of Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County

DEVELOPING

BY SHEA CARVER

A

t the beginning of every new year, we check in with the Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County (ACWNHC) to find out how our fair city is doing in the realm of supporting local artists and growing the arts as a viable economic boost to our area. 2019 was a great year for the council and also for its executive director Rhonda Bellamy, who was recognized among the Leadership Fellows at Cucalorus 20 for her continuous role in helping shape Wilmington’s artistic growth.

In 2019 she also began hosting WHQR’s “Around Town with Rhonda Bellamy” (a nice tip of the hat to her roots in radio 20 years ago).

“My business acumen, coupled with my involvement in the arts—as cofounder of the Black Arts Alliance and the North Carolina Black Film Festival; on Cameron Art Museum’s board of directors twice; as founding instructor at the Dreams Center for Arts Education—had equal billing in preparing me for my role at the council,” Bellamy says.

Aside from keeping a hefty schedule at the council, she helps promote events in 5-minute interviews for HQR News (91.3FM), which air Fridays at 9:01 a.m. and 3:01 p.m., as well as Saturdays and Sundays at 7:01 a.m., 1:01 p.m. and 6:01 p.m. Bellamy and and the council also host events aplenty throughout the year, including the Fourth Friday Gallery Walks. Participating galleries stay open ‘til 9 p.m. and promote special exhibitions featuring various artists.

New venues, like Gallery Citrine and Silver Hammer, have signed up for the first walk of 2020, taking place January 24.

“We’re also getting more inquiries from other businesses that see the influx of art lovers into downtown Wilmington on Fourth Fridays,” Bellamy tells. “We hope to wrap up the [full list of] 2020 participants early next week.”

One of the galleries is ACES, overseen

by Bellamy. The gallery is located at 221 N. Front St. and acts as the storefront for the council’s headquarters. “In 2019, we featured 35 artists,” Bellamy says. The council also showcased 25 artists on display at

DETAILS FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY WALKS Friday, January 24, 6 - 9 p.m.

Participating galleries, downtown Wilmington artscouncilofwilmington.org ACES Gallery at the local airport, ILM. Their 12th exhibition will come down this month as officials have agreed to expand the gallery as ILM also expands.

“What we need are more marketing dollars specifically for the arts,” according to Bellamy. “We regularly hear from visitors to the area that they ‘happened upon’ Wilmington’s arts scene.”

The dollars would be well-spent, considering the economic impact of nonprofit arts organizations and their audiences. The Arts & Economic Prosperity (EAP) in 2017, overseen by the council in partnership with the City of Wilmington, comprehensively “found the nonprofit sector had a $55.8 million impact, employing 2,076, and generating $5.6 million in local and state tax revenues.” Such numbers impress, and paired with the number of theaters, galleries and artists of all disciplines, Bellamy says it proves Wilmington rivals larger cities.

Among many goals the council is preparing for in 2020 is an updated EAP report, plus projects that will continue to develop our arts scene. One is the push for more murals as part of the council’s Pedestrian Art program. PedArt has overseen the installation of 10 to 12 temporary sculptures in downtown Wilmington.

“We want the program to reflect both

18 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

sculptures and murals and include our entire service area—all of New Hanover County,” Bellamy tells. She and Wilmington Downtown Inc.’s executive director, Ed Wolverton, already are working together to come up with a plan to present to the City of Wilmington, which has frowned upon the allowance of murals in the past. “Murals are considered signs, so it will be necessary to abide by the city’s sign ordinance,” Bellamy informs.

The city already has given support to ACWNHC’s biggest accomplishment of 2019: developing the Wilmington Rail Trail.

The project consists of converting the old Atlantic Coast Line rail bed, from downtown to McRae Street, into green space, public arts and event space, and a pedestrian pathway.

“It’s our top priority in 2020: developing the master plan for the Wilmington Rail Trail,” Bellamy confirms. “We provided a local match to receive $40,000 in federal funds for a comprehensive master plan to be conducted by Raleigh-based Kimley-Horn, planning and design consultants with experience in large-scale projects. We will meet soon to outline the timeline, particularly as it relates to public engagement, as the master plan must be complete by June 30, 2020.”

The council also partnered with Wave Transit, Wilmington Downtown Inc. and other stakeholders to rebrand the downtown trolley. Its route now serves riders into all creative districts, from the CBD to South Front, Castle Street to Brooklyn Arts District to the north riverfront. While getting from point A to point B to enjoy art is important, the scope of creative output in ILM first must be in place. Since 2011, the council’s Grassroots Arts Programs have awarded $422,000 in funds. They give $50,000 annually to 23 local arts organizations and leveraged it to obtain another $515,188 in grants.

As well they offer regional grants for local artist projects in New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender and Columbus. $120,000 has been awarded since 2011, with $15,000 given out a year.

The council also started “Broadway for a Better World” in 2018 with the Wilson Center to award $90,000 in free tickets to under-

ARTS

Rhonda Bellamy talks about another successful year of growth with the arts council served areas so youth interested in performance art can experience Broadway touring shows. “The application deadline for this grant cycle is January 17,” Bellamy says.

In fact, continuing to serve the 18 and under population remains top of mind for Bellamy and the council. The arts provide positive characteristics to growing minds, like persistence, collaboration, creative thinking, problem solving, motivation and empathy.

The council has partnered with New Hanover County Schools, after having success with their cARTwheels grant in 2017-2018, featuring Black Box Dance Theater. 2020 will bring back an artist residency for students to take advantage of.

“We were awarded another grant to expand the connection to provide a dance integration residency to select Title 1 elementary classes and teachers,” Bellamy says.

2020 also will have the council preparing and planning for a year-long centennial celebration for Dorothy Gillespie beginning in June. The well-known NYC American artist and sculptor has ties to ILM, dating back to the ‘70s. They also are planning “Ears on the Art” in March, which will bring elected officials, the business community and citizens together to inform future plans for Wilmington’s arts council; and they’ll plan the next Wilmington Arts Summit in April, to help bridge the gap between networking and professional development opportunities within the arts community.

GALLERY art exposure!

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

ArtExposure will be hosting “Metal and Fiber, a show featuring the metal work of Vicki Thatcher and the Fiber work of Jan Lewis. The show will run until the end of August. Check out our new website at www.artexposure50.com to see upcoming events and classes!

ART IN BLOOM GALLERY

210 Princess St. • (484) 885-3037 Tues. - Sat. 10am - 5pm ; Sun. 12pm - 5pm and by appointment • aibgallery. com

View “New Path: New Art by Debra Bucci” with original oil paintings continuing through January 19th, 2020. In addition, view original paintings, ceramics, sculpture, blown-glass art, jewelry, copper mobiles and more by a variety of artists.

ART IN BLOOM POPUP EXHIBITS www.aibgallery.com

In addition to our gallery at 210 Princess Street, Art in Bloom Gallery partners with local businesses to exhibit original art in other locations. Current Art Exhibits include: “Works of Art by Kirah Van Sickle” continues through February 3rd, 2020 at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street. The artist’s acrylic and mixed media works combine found objects and papers with paint glazes.

A pop-up art exhibit at the MC Erny Gallery with original art by Georgeann Haas (acrylic and mixed media on paper) and H.M. Saffer, II (oil on canvas and panel) through January 17th, 2020. Art in Bloom Gallery is delighted to host the exhibit in the MC Erny Gallery on the third floor of WHQR Public Radio at 254 N. Front Street.

Regular hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

CHARLES JONES AFRICAN ART

311 Judges Rd., Unit 6-E • (910) 7943060 • Mon. – Fri. 10am - 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm - 4 pm

GUIDE

Open other hours / weekends by appt. cjafricanart.com

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

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

Over 30 years experience in Tribal Arts.

Our clients include many major museums.

NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY

271 N. Front St. • (919) 343-8997.

Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) newelementsgallery.com

New Elements Gallery is excited to announce our 34th Annual Holiday Show!

Start your Holiday shopping with perusing work by 40-plus of the best artists in southeastern North Carolina. Find oneof-a-kind gifts, wearable art, and home décor to make anyone happy on your list—including you! Show runs through January 18, 2020! This event is free.

WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY

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

Wilma D Daniels Gallery presents: The No Boundaries International Art Colony exhibition opens, featuring the works of national and international artists. This year’s exhibition features artists from Japan, Spain, Turkey and the United States.

encorepub.com encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 19

A taste of Southern hospitality...

AVOCADO TOAST

HELL IN A HAND-BASKET BURGER

SHRIMP ‘N’ GRITS

WEEKEND BRUNCH

SERVING AWARD-WINNING CHICKEN AND WAFFLES • Locally prepared, fresh-fromscratch breakfast & lunch • Heart-healthy items available • Traditional Southern dishes

3704 Carolina Beach Rd. • (910) 769-8112 • savorsouthernkitchen.com Tues.-Fri., 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. • Sat. - Sun., 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

20 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

PRETTY KITTY Dame Judi Dench signed on to the CGI atrocity that is ‘Cats’ the film.

Photo courtesy Working Title Films

MEOWSERS!

BY ANGHUS

W

ho doesn’t love a good train wreck? Metaphorically speaking, anyway.

I’m not advocating to seek out an actual train wreck; that would be pretty dark. Aside from that one kid in school who always played with lighters and was chasing stray cats, are there people who would enjoy watching the unspeakable tragedy literally before their eyes? Now that I think about it, that’s a horrific metaphor. The most fascinating thing people can’t look away from is a railway tragedy? So freaking morbid. Who the hell thought that was a good idea?

Speaking of terrible ideas, some people made a big-screen version of Andrew Lloyd Weber’s “Cats.” It has always been a weird pop-culture phenomenon that never made a lot of sense. The ridiculous piece of musical theater found success on Broadway in the 1980s when everyone in New York was transitioning from pot to cocaine—back when Weber was sharting out weird shows like “Starlight Express.”

“Cats” may be the weirdest and most confounding entry in his oeuvre.

DETAILS CATS

Rated PG, 1 hr 50 mins Directed by Tom Hooper Starring James Corden, Judi Dench, Jason Derulo, Idris Elba, Taylor Swift, Rebel Wilson, Jennifer Hudson, Ian McKellen, Francesca Hayward

Unfortunately, it’s the thin, poorly conceived source material that sinks the ship.

I doubt anyone could adapt “Cats” into a worthwhile cinematic experience. I guarantee audiences have never seen anything quite like its big-screen adaptation.

It might be justification to buy a ticket. It’s fascinating, frustrating and freaky as hell.

‘Cats’ is the terrible train wreck everyone says it is

aspiring filmmaker should seek out—not only to witness the insane choices made in its night-terror execution but as encouragement toward their future endeavors. Because if Hollywood thought “Cats” The fact someone spent $100 mil- the movie was a good idea, then whatever lion dollars on this cinematic ordeal is other projects are in development absomind-blowing. It’s a movie that every lutely have a shot at getting made.

up, stumbling around the screen, trying to make the audience laugh with her trademark brand of awkward physical humor.

Yet, I was already laughing.

Believe the hype: This thing is terrible.

It’s a meandering, drug-fueled nightmare that will leave you questioning the existence of a kind and just God. There are moments of pure, zany insanity. During its first 10 minutes or so, I was completely hooked.

Therein is the problem: Once the movie tries to be amusing, it stops being unintentionally funny and becomes grating. I genuinely was fascinated by the potential of the world these cats inhabited. Unfortunately, there really isn’t much world-building—just different characters introducing themselves, while vaguely discussing which one will be chosen to ascend into a new existence. I had questions, but the movie wasn’t interested in providing answers. “Cats” the movie could have been a freaky masterpiece; instead, it bounces back and forth from “boring” to “baffling.”

I’ve been fortunate enough to not know a thing about the musical except for the song “Memories,” and the elements of the show that have been mocked. When the frightening looking cat-people break into the song “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats,” I burst into a fit of laughter that emptied my lungs and left my tear ducts bone dry. Then Rebel Wilson showed

Everything about it is engineered to make audiences wince or cringe, from the visual choices to the eye-popping, jaw-dropping special effects of the characters. It’s obvious how much effort was put into this strange vision. I give credit to everyone involved with the production for trying to do something different. There are very talented actors doing their best to try to create a

However, the show has amassed billions of dollars in the decades since release. Thus someone thought a movie adaptation would be a sound business decision. It was not.

back-alley wonderland. The serious thespians, like Idris Alba and Ian McKellan, fare better than comedic performers like James Corden and Rebel Wilson.

Local Realtors® sharing the whole Wilmington EXPerience.

Leslie Smith

910-233-8772 • leslie.smith@exprealty.com

William Corbett

910-409-7818 • william.corbett@exprealty.com encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 21

Change is on the menu - all it takes a perfectly personal recipe for happiness and the courage to make it happen!

Feb. 4, 5 & 6 at 7:30 pm

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encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 23

Be mine.

1437 Military Cutoff Rd â&#x20AC;˘ 910 679 8797 24 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

IN THE ROUND Ashley Strand soars in Alchemical Theatre Company’s King ‘James Live.’

Courtesy photo

POWERFUL

BY GWENYFAR ROHLER

“T

hank you for joining me on this journey,” Ashley Strand said at the opening of his one-man show of the “Gospel of Mark,” from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. He stood in the center of a ring of chairs at Ronald Sachs Violins on Castle Street.

The chair configuration reminded me of the labyrinth found on the floor of Chartres Cathedral: similar in shape—a quartered circle, in this case with 12 chairs in the inner ring, and two bisecting passages Strand uses for his journeys through the text and geography of the Gospel.

For a little context, KJV was authorized by the Crown in 1604 and completed in 1611. For much of the proceeding century, English-language versions of the Bible were suppressed in England, and indeed at times, possession and distribution of an English translation was a crime punishable by imprisonment and even death. KJV was not the first authorized English Bible, but the scholarship, poetic language and scope of the translation have captured the public imagination for over 400 years and made it a defining piece of literature.

KJV was intended to be read aloud in churches, since literacy was not widespread.

Most people experienced it through play-acting or performing storyteller in church. Its poetry is stunning. So it takes a moment for the ear to adjust. Perhaps one of the best compliments I can give Strand as a performer of this material is the audience never has to struggle to reach or understand him. He makes the language so natural and inviting it doesn’t feel like a barrier. Though there are people who will be attracted to this show as a worship experience (much like with “Jesus Christ Superstar”), this is not presented as or intended to be an evangelical experience. Its intention is to dramatize the story of the Gospel, not necessarily to win souls.

Strand does not perform it as an exultation, but rather as a fully realized, incredibly powerful and tragic journey. Strand brings to life all the characters who speak and those who are merely discussed. He makes their

DETAILS KING JAMES LIVE GOSPEL OF MARK Produced by Alchemical Theatre Company January 16-18 at 7 p.m. • $10-$20 Ronald Sachs Violins, 616-B Castle St. kingjameslive.brownpapertickets.com humanness, accomplishments and failings all very real and believable. The audience experiences a hybrid of storytelling performance that brings together the elements of civilization across 2,000 years. Strand incorporates narration of the Gospel, elements of the 1600s, and what audiences in both the church and the playhouse of the day would experience. He mixes and mingles with modern tropes and techniques to create an incredible thread through Western history and psychology.

Strand is not the first performer called to this material. Sir Alex McCowen is probably most well-known for his one-person show.

He began in 1978 and continued to develop the show for the remainder of his performing life. He utilized a table, three chairs and a dinner service, in a proscenium-like setting. It is a very different approach from Strand, who has chosen to put this firmly in the round, and has no props beyond the book itself. One cannot help but compare the two pieces: McCowen comes from a much older school of acting (he launched his career in the late 1940s). There is still a lot of the very stiff, proper, British lecture about his work. Strand, by contrast, is a much more modern and realistic performer, who inhabits the moments of frustration and humanness in each of his characters. He is not so much playing the “types” that McCow-

en was attracted to, but playing the unfolding drama.

So, as Jesus repeatedly asks the apostles if they are not paying attention when he is speaking about the loaves and fishes, bewilderment and frustration are evident in Strand’s voice. His Salome is surprisingly timid, and his Herod is reminiscent of a civil servant caught at a strip club. When Jesus returns to his childhood home and notes, “A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house,” it was like watching Bette Midler’s scene at the gas station in “The Rose”: You might have a chart-topping album in New York, but back home you are still the loser everybody remembered from high school.

“Gospel of Mark” follows Jesus’ exploits as an adult. We begin with John the Baptist and follow through Jesus’ assembly of the apostles, his ministry, the crucifixion and resurrection. At times it is almost like a travelogue there is so much geography covered. As one friend noted, it is remarkably different from church where one verse might be read aloud and discussed, but the entire story taken as a whole is rare. That is a big part of the show’s mission: to present the story as a whole. It changes the perception of each of the verses and parables. They are not isolated incidents; each piece is from a larger cloth. That cloth is a story that follows an ancient pattern and message rooted deeply in the human psyche.

If we, the audience, surrender to it, the message and the lesson could change the world.

I have been present for several significant moments in the development of Alchemical Theatre’s “Gospel of Mark.” When Strand first began working with the text, it was at a lectern with the book open in front of him. That was a very different performance, and though the text benefited greatly from the power and majesty of Strand’s remarkable voice, this show is much more intimate and memorable.

He is such a physical performer, to keep that aspect bundled behind a lectern is a disservice to his gifts. He really works the setting in the round—and there are no bad seats—but I would say, if you sit farthest from the door facing Castle Street, there are a couple of key

MUST-SEE

Ashley Strand envelops the ‘Gospel of Mark’ fully moments folks will be perfectly positioned for.

A one-person show by definition is a bit of an endurance marathon for the performer to keep the audience’s attention, but this audience was leaning forward on tender hooks, following Strand’s every word and motion.

Keeping their attention wasn’t an issue; getting them to leave at the end of the night was more of a challenge. Yes, Strand resorted to the text on a couple of occasions to get his bearings (it is amazing he didn’t hold the book in his hand the whole time; I think everyone in the room sort of expected him to).

He truly inhabited every moment, even those that required some help from his 12 Apostles and his personal Mary (who had his back with the text). If anything, those humanizing moments made him more approachable and less separate from the audience’s experience. It feels like using the lectern was a gestation phase, and what I saw last week was the birthing of this work that like McCowen before him, Strand will probably spend many years refining.

Honestly, when he came to the last line and led the audience in chorus of “amen,” it was not that far off from the last line of Shakespeare’s “Richard III,” with Richmond ending the show with a pronouncement of “amen!”

It was powerful and beautiful to share what he had clearly led us toward all evening long.

His work and the audience’s participation felt like great investment of energy and attention, sealed and then released into the world again.

For a truly powerful evening that will challenge the way you perceive a story and text pervasive in our world, Ashley Strand’s oneman “Gospel of Mark” is a must-see.

encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 25

DINING

GUIDE

Elijah’s 2 Ann S t. • ww w.elijah s.com • Ph

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: bluewaterdining.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

oto by Hollan d Dotts

Photog raphy

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

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11:30-10:00; Friday and Saturday 11:30-11:00 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ILM; kids menu

HENRY’S

A local favorite, Henry’s is the ‘place to be’ for great food, a lively bar and awesome patio dining. Henry’s serves up American cuisine at its finest that include entrees with fresh, local ingredients. Come early for lunch, because it’s going to be packed. Dinner too! Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to 30 people. 2508 Independence Boulevard, Wilmington, NC. (910) 793.2929.

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

Sat.: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.

26 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

■ WEBSITE: henrysrestaurant.com

NICHE

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

Niche’s heated covered patio is perfect for anytime of the year and great for large parties.

And their bar has a great assortment of wines, even offered half off by the glass on Tuesdays-Thursdays. Open Tues. - Sun. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling 910-399-4701.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: nichewilmington.com

PINE VALLEY MARKET

Pine Valley Market has reigned supreme in servicing the Wilmington community for years, securing encore’s Best-Of awards in catering,

gourmet shop and butcher. Now, Kathy Webb and Christi Ferretti are expanding their talents into serving lunch in-house, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy ambiance of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to childhood.

Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is something for all palates. Take advantage of their take-home frozen meals for nights that are too hectic to cook, and don’t forget to pick up a great bottle of wine to go with it. 3520 S. College Road, (910) 350-FOOD. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sun. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials and take-home

frozen meals ■ WEBSITE: pinevalleymarket.com

THE TROLLY STOP

Trolly Stop Grill and Catering is a four store franchise in North Carolina. Trolly Stop Hot Dogs opened in Wrightsville Beach in 1976. That store name has never changed. Since the Wrightsville Beach store, the newer stores sell hotdogs, hamburgers, beef and chicken cheese steaks, fries, hand dipped ice cream, milk shakes, floats and more.

Our types of dogs are: Southern (Trolly Dog, beef and pork), Northern (all beef), Smoke Sausage (pork), Fat Free (turkey), Veggie (soy). Voted Best Hot Dog in Wilmington for decades.

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

Franchises available.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ LOCATIONS: Wilmington, Fountain Dr. (910) 452-3952, Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-3921, Southport (910) 457-7017, Boone, NC (828) 2652658, Chapel Hill, NC (919) 240-4206 ■ WEBSITE: trollystophotdogs.com

ASIAN INDOCHINE RESTAURANT

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: 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: nikkissushibar.com

■ FEATURING: 1/2 Price Sushi/Appetizer Menu nightly from 5-7, until 8 on Mondays, and also 10-Midnight on Fri/Sat. Tuesday LOCALS NIGHT20% Dinner Entrees. Wednesday 80S NIGHT 80smusic and menu prices. Sundays are the best dealdowntown - Specialty Sushi and Entrees are BuyOne, Get One $10 Off and 1/2 price Wine Bottles.Nightly Drink Specials. Gluten-Free Menu upon request. Complimentary Birthday Dessert.

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

OKAMI JAPANESE HIBACHI STEAK HOUSE

YOSHI

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 okamisteakhouse.com! 614 S College Rd. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am 2:30pm / 4-10pm; Fri., 11am-2:30pm / 4pm-11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am9:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: okamisteakhouse.com

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. 11am11pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.com

BAGELS ROUND BAGELS

Round Bagels and Donuts features 17 varieties of New York-style bagels, baked fresh daily on

BITES 2020 SHUCK ON THE SOUND OYSTER ROAST January 25, 6:30 p.m.

St. Andrews On-the-Sound Episcopal Church, 101 Airlie Rd. Fresh local oysters roasted over a hardwood fire and live entertainment.

Admission includes all you can eat oysters, BBQ, and beer/wine. All funds raised will be used to support our children’s ministry at St. Andrews Onthe-Sound Tickets: $35 at Eventbrite.com

site in a steam bagel oven. Round offers a wide variety of breakfast and lunch bagel sandwiches, grilled and fresh to order. Round also offers freshmade donuts daily! Stop by Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., and on Sunday, 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH

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: 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. ‘til 10pm, Thurs ‘til 11pm, Fri-Sat, ‘til Midnight.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown

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

16 Cold Draft Beers

encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 27

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Homemade bagels, cream

cheeses, donuts, sandwiches, coffee and more ■ WEBSITE: roundbagelsanddonuts.com

FONDUE

Wilmington’s favorite fondue restaurant! The Little Dipper specializes in unique fondue dishes with a global variety of cheeses, meats, seafood, vegetables, chocolates and fine wines. The warm and intimate dining room is a great place to enjoy a four-course meal, or indulge in appetizers and desserts outside on the back deck or in the bar while watching luminescent jellyfish.

Reservations are appreciated for parties of any size. Located at the corner of Front and Orange in Downtown Wilmington. 138 South Front Street.

(910) 251-0433.

■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; open daily from Memorial Day through October ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING Sunday half-price wine bottles; Monday beer and wine flights on special; Tuesday Local’s Night $11/person cheese and chocolate; Wednesday Ladies Night; Thursday $27 4-course prix fixe; Friday “Date Night” $85/ couple for 3 courses and a bottle of wine.

■ MUSIC: Tuesdays & Thursdays, May-Oct., 7– 9 p.m. (weather permitting) ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com

IRISH THE HARP

Experience the finest traditional Irish family recipes and popular favorites served in a casual yet elegant traditional pub atmosphere. The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St., proudly uses the freshest ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible, to bring you and yours the most delicious Irish fare! We have a fully stocked bar featuring favorite Irish beers and whiskies. We are open every day for both American and Irish breakfast, served to noon weekdays and 2 p.m. weekends.

Regular menu to 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. weekends. Join us for trivia at 8:30 on Thursdays and live music on Fridays – call ahead for schedule (910) 763-1607. Located just beside Greenfield Lake and Park at the south end of downtown Wilmington, The Harp is a lovely Irish pub committed to bringing traditional Irish flavor, tradition and hospitality to the Cape Fear area ■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Greenfield Lake/DowntownSouth ■ 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: harpwilmington.com

SLAINTE IRISH PUB

Slainte Irish Pub in Monkey Junction has traditional pub fare with an Irish flair. We have a large selection of Irish whiskey, and over 23 different beers on draft, and 40 different craft beers in bottles. They have a large well lit outdoor patio with a full bar also. Come have some fun! They currently do not take reservations, but

We’re not just hot dogs!

promise to take care of you when you get here!

5607 Carolina Beach Rd. #100, (910) 399-3980 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 11:30 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington, Monkey Junction ■ FEATURING: Irish grub, whiskeys, beer, wine, fun.

■ WEBSITE: facebook.com/slaintemj

ITALIAN ANTONIO’S

Serving fresh, homemade Italian fare in midtown and south Wilmington, Antonio’s Pizza and Pasta is a family-owned restaurant which serves New York style pizza and pasta. From daily specials during lunch and dinner to a friendly waitstaff 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: antoniospizzaandpasta.com

THE ITALIAN BISTRO

The Italian Bistro is a family-owned, fullservice Italian restaurant and pizzeria located in Porters Neck. They offer a wide variety of N.Y. style thin-crust pizza and homemade Italian dishes seven days a week!

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

Their warm, inviting, atmosphere is perfect for “date night” or “family night.” Let them show you why “fresh, homemade and local” is part of everything they do. 8211 Market St. (910) 6867774

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs.,

11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun brunch, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck ■ WEBSITE: italianbistronc.com

SLICE OF LIFE

$5 Meal Deals

Offering philly cheesesteaks, burgers, grilled cheeses, frank ’n’ beans and more!

Offering hot dog cart service for catering, 60 or more!

Drop-off catering offered!

We ha Impos ve the s Burgeible r

WILMINGTON 4502 Fountain Dr Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 452-3952

11am to 6:30pm, 7 days a week

28 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Downtown and Wilmington South.

■ FEATURING: Largest tequila selection in

town!

■ WEBSITE: grabslice.com

MEXICAN ZOCALO

Zocalo Street Food and Tequila brings a modern version of cooking traditional Mexican street food through perfected recipes, with excellent presentation. Zócalo was the main ceremonial center for the Aztecs, and presently, it is the main square in central Mexico City. It bridges old school tradition with a twist of innovative cooking. Zocalo also has weekly events, such as their margarita and food tasting every Monday, 5-8 p.m., and a live taco station every Tuesday , 5-8 p.m. Live Latin music Is showcased every other Saturday and Sunday brunch begins at 10 a.m.

Be sure to try Zocalo’s wide selection of the best tequilas! Owned and operated locally, locations are in Wilmington and Jacksonville, NC. Take out and delivery available through most apps.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER AND BRUNCH: Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m - 10 p.m.; Sunday brunch, 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.; closes 9 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Pointe at Barclay ■ WEBSITE: zocalostreetfood.com

SANDWICHES J. MICHAEL’S PHILLY DELI

The Philly Deli celebrated their 38th anniversary in August 2017. Thier first store was located in Hanover Center—the oldest shopping center in Wilmington. Since, two more Philly Delis have been added: one at Porters Neck and one at Monkey Junction.

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

We also have a great collection of salads to choose from, including the classic chef’s salad, chicken salad, and tuna salad, all made fresh every day in our three Wilmington, NC restaurants.

8232 Market St., 3501 Oleander Dr., 609 Piner Rd.

■ OPEN: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday -Thursday,11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday Saturday.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck, North and South Wilmington, ■ WEBSITE: https://phillydeli.com

SEAFOOD CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY

Founded in 2008 by Evans and Nikki Trawick, Cape Fear Seafood Company has become a local hotspot for the freshest, tastiest seafood in the area. With it’s growing popularity, the restaurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to locations in Porters Neck and Waterford in Leland. “We are a dedicated group of individuals working together as a team to serve spectacular food, wine and spirits in a relaxed and casual setting,” restaurateur Evans Trawick says. “At CFSC every dish is prepared with attention to detail, quality ingredients and excellent flavors. Our staff strives to accommodate guests with a sense of urgency and an abundance of

THE PILOT HOUSE

Slice of Life 3 loc ations

• grabslice .com • Pho to

southern hospitality.” Cape Fear Seafood Company has been recognized by encore magazine for best seafood in 2015, as well as by Wilmington Magazine in 2015 and 2016, and Star News from 2013 through 2016. Monkey Junction: 5226 S. College Road Suite 5, 910-799-7077. Porter’s Neck: 140 Hays Lane #140, 910-681-1140. Waterford: 143 Poole Rd., Leland, NC 28451 ■ SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER: 11:30am4pm daily; Mon.-Thurs.., 4pm-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 4pm 10pm; Sun., 4pm-8:30pm.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, north Wilmington and Leland ■ WESBITE: 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) Hand-crafted seasonal desserts. Full ABC Permits. 6623 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28405, 910-799-3847.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Acclaimed Wine List ■ WEBSITE: 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,

by Lindsey

A. Miller P hotograph y

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 lunch and dinner, 7 days a week. (910) 7622827.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week.

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

■ WEBSITE: dockstreetoysterbar.net

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: OceanicRestaurant.com

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 Sunday-Thursday and live music every Friday and Saturday nigh on our umbrella deck. Large parties welcome. Private event space available. 910-343-0200. 2 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm, 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: 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. (910-458-7380) and our second location is at 109 Market Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington (910-833-8622). The Shack is the place you want to be to catch your favorite

MICHAEL’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Established in 1998, Michael’s Seafood Restaurant is locally owned and operated by Shelly McGowan and managed by her team of culinary professionals. Michael’s aspires to bring you the highest quality and freshest fin fish, shell fish, mollusks, beef, pork, poultry and produce. Our menu consists of mainly locally grown and made from scratch items. We count on our local fishermen and farmers to supply us with seasonal, North Carolina favorites on a daily basis. Adorned walls include awards such as 3 time gold medalist at the International Seafood Chowder Cook-Off, Entrepreneur of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Encores readers’ choice in Best Seafood to name a few. 1206 N. Lake Park Blvd. (910) 458-7761 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days 11 am – 9 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach ■ FEATURING: Award-winning chowder, local se food and more!

■ WEBSITE: MikesCfood.com

OCEANIC

Voted best seafood restaurant in Wilmington, Oceanic provides oceanfront dining at its best.

Located in Wrightsville Beach, Oceanic is one of the most visited restaurants on the beach.

Choose from a selection of seafood platters, combination plates and daily fresh fish. For land lovers, try their steaks, chicken or pasta dishes.

Relax on the pier or dine inside. Oceanic is also the perfect location for memorable events, such as wedding ceremonies & receptions, birthday gatherings, anniversary parties and more. Large

encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 29

sports team on 7 TV’s carrying all major sports packages. A variety of fresh seafood is available daily including oysters, shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab legs. Shuckin’ Shack has expanded its menu now offering fish tacos, crab cake sliders, fried oyster po-boys, fresh salads, and more.

Come in and check out the Shack’s daily lunch, dinner, and drink specials. It’s a Good Shuckin’ Time!

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

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

■ WEBSITE: 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) 7982913.

■ 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 Mon. & Tues.

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

■ WEBSITE: caseysbuffet.com

RX RESTAURANT & BAR

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

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

SPORTS BAR CAROLINA ALE HOUSE

Voted best new restaurant AND best sports

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

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

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

WEBSITE: CarolinaAleHouse.com

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & WEEKEND BRUNCH: Lunch Tues.-Fri., 11am-2pm; Dinner, Tues.-Sun., 5-10pm; Brunch, Sat.-Sun., 10:30am-2:30pm; Butcher counter Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: The Forum off of Military Cutoff Road ■ FEATURES: Wed. Burger Night, Thurs.

1/2-priced wine bottle & prime steak upgrades; Friday 1/2-priced bar menu ■ WEBSITE/SOCIALS: wearetrueblue.com. IG: @truebluebutcherandtable. FB: facebook.com/ TrueBlueButcherAndTable

STEAKS

TAPAS/WINE BAR

TRUE BLUE BUTCHER & TABLE

THE FORTUNATE GLASS WINE BAR

True Blue Butcher & Table opened in the Forum Shopping Center in January 2018 at the point, 1125-AA Military Cutoff Rd. as Wilmington’s finest neighborhood butcher shop and restaurant. A menu of globally-inspired, local ingredients is served during lunch, dinner and weekend brunches. But the real experience is visiting the butcher counter to take home the best cuts of meat in Wilmington (and the world), while also given expert cooking and food advice from the chef/owner himself, Bobby Zimmerman. True Blue has a magnificent bar, handcrafted cocktail menu and bar menu and offers weekday specials. (910) 679-4473

Under new ownership! Tom Noonan invites you to enjoy his remodeled space, featuring a new sound system and new bar, in a warm, relaxed environment. Taste 40 craft beers, over 400 wines by the bottle, a wide selection of cheese and charcuterie, with gourmet small plates and desserts to go! And don’t miss their weekly wine tastings, every Tuesday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

SERVING DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Mon., Closed; Tues.-Thurs., 4 p.m. - 12 a.m.; Fri., 4 p.m.

- 2 a.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sun., 4 - 10 p.m.

NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown, 29 S Front St. WEBSITE: fortunateglass.com

NEW CAULIFLOWER RICE WARM BOWLS! TRY ONE AT OUR WILMINGTON LOCATION 1125 Military Cutoff Rd, Wilmington, NC

30 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 31

CHEERS NO MORE Trump’s wine tariff is going to hurt wine businesses and restaurant, as well as other tasty imported goods.

Stock photo

TARIFF

BY JOAN C.W. HOFFMANN

I

t’s OK to be confused by the talk of wine tariffs; it’s confusing. Like really confusing. The tariffs themselves are pretty straightforward. Wine hailing from the European Union (France, Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom) is going to become a lot more expensive because of a tax that President Trump has decided to impose. The tariff also will affect the price of olive oil, cheese, liquor and myriad other delicious imports, plus non-food related products, including some clothing, tools and aircraft. The product itself will determine who will pay for it. As far as wine goes,

the cost will reach far beyond the bottle.

“I would like to make it clear to everyone that this isn’t really about the millions of wine enthusiasts out there that would have to pay much more for some of their favorite juice from some of their favorite European wineries, this is about people,” says David Koebley, national sales manager (U.S.) for Familia Zuccardi wines out of Argentina. “This is about the many people whose livelihoods will most definitely be affected.”

Koebley breaks it down, noting it isn’t just the people who make, sell, or repre-

sent imported wine. It’s also the local bartender who works at the French restaurant, and the dishwasher in the back saving up for their child’s college fund.

“Why should these people and their families suffer so profusely over a fight between the aviation and technology industries?” begs Koebley.

That’s where a lot of the confusion comes in. The tariffs being imposed on European imports are due to a 15-year feud between the United States and European Union (EU) over funding that the EU has provided airplane manufacturer Airbus. The long and short of it is the US is frustrated because the EU’s subsidization of Airbus allows the company to sell their products at a lower price. Thus, it undercuts American airplane manufacturer Boeing. The US brought this to the attention of the World Trade Organization, which has allowed President Trump to impose up to $7.5 billion in tariffs annually until the EU discontinues its subsidies.

Reports from local restaurant owners, wine shop owners, and wine representatives show these tariffs in no way make sense in terms of what they will accomplish versus what they are trying to accomplish.

“They are ludicrous,” says William Mellon, owner of manna, Bourgie Nights, and Earnest Money & Sons—three Wilmington institutions heavily affected by the tariffs.

“There wasn’t any thought by the person or persons who enacted them. It was a blatant power move and is going to be devastating to the wine industry and the infrastructure that keeps that industry afloat.”

Similarly positioned is Andrew Bopes, owner of Mon Âme Chocolate and Wine Bar. “I feel the tariffs are a misguided bargaining tool that have far-reaching circumstances for everyday Americans in an industry that already runs on tight margins. I do not see any good coming from these tariffs.”

32 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

Americans might see this as an opportunity to support domestic winemakers.

While it’s never a bad time to go local, the

TALK

Joan talks with wine industry folks about the tariffs instituted on EU wines price of American wine will likely go up as well.

“This will not be a boom for American-made wines,” Bopes counteracts.

“The way the distribution system is set up in the U.S. requires me to purchase from a distributor, not directly from wineries.

These distributors have large portfolios that contain large chunks of European wines. These distributors are people that live in our communities that rely on sales of European to pay their bills.”

It’s easy to feel helpless, or at least infuriated, in regard to tariffs. Locals have advice for those concerned. “If we want to do right by our European winemakers, importers, and the folks (read: Americans) they employ, we must keep buying and hope [the tariffs are reversed],” Mellon tells.

If Anthony Bourdain taught the human race anything on his too-short tenure on earth, it was that food and drink are the great neutralizers. Koebley agrees.

“Wine and food bring people together; they allow us to experience other cultures through our taste buds,” he urges. “These products offer stories of different places, foreign cultures, and families. For many, a bottle of wine or a taste of cheese from a specific place is their first introduction to these foreign regions. It could be the first spark of interest into another language or travel for many. Without affordable access to these products, our very culture truly suffers.”

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in “A Rebel Without A Cause,” Eddie Inferno was looking to rebel against whatever ideology or “ism” anyone had to offer.

He denounced both capitalism and Communism as “the control methods of twat-chasing penny-pinchers.” In spite of controversies that would have buried and besmirched other celebrities, Eddie and the Absent-Minded Gentlemen continued to thrive.

BURNING SENSATION

An Eddie Inferno Rock ‘n’ Roll Adventure

BY ANGHUS CHAPTER 1

E

ddie Inferno faded halfway into obscurity before crawling out of the overflowing toilet that had become his career. At the height of his phoenix-like ascension, he was the brightest burning star in the sky, relentlessly pursued by the press. Even the most mundane moments of his life were newsworthy for the huddled masses desperately seeking an iconic idol to give their uneventful lives meaning. He was a hero to the people and a villain to the mainstream media whose greedy corpo-

Their second album, “Synthesizer Sex Slaves,” became regarded as the roadmap for the next 40 years of popular music. The electronic grooves and thumping beats helped usher in a new age of revolution. The youth of the world quickly began to see Eddie as the embodiment of human aspiration. He was uncompromising in his artistic endeavors, while actively shunning the wealth and lifestyle that came along with it.

rate overlords were frustrated with their inability to rein in this unpredictable societal agitator.

It was the 1978 album “Jimmy Saville’s Sex Dungeon” that propelled his band, The Absent-Minded Gentlemen, into international stardom.

It was an open-handed slap to the gaping maw of the music industry that was balls deep into churning out watered-down disco for prescription-pill-addicted housewives and men who felt threatened by the jungle rhythms of their trademark brand of funk and punk. While the band found success, it was Eddie who was propelled into the upper stratosphere. His wiry frame, pasty complexion and red-green eyes would soon grace

the cover of every periodical on the newstand—from the hardcore music musings of Razorwire to the subtle decorative stylings of Southern Hospitality. A cover photo of Eddie guaranteed sell-out success. He was a global sex symbol who could satisfy any woman with a curl of his lip and made men feel so inadequate that suicide rates tripled every time the band dropped a new single.

The band’s first single, “Your Mother’s Dirty Mouth,” was an immediate hit in the UK. The journey to success wasn’t quite as easy in the United States, where puritanical record stations resisted the urge to play the controversial song. But the outcry of rock ‘n’ roll fans forced management to put it in heavily edited rotation. Even with a mere 38 seconds of usable audio, the song ended up topping the chart for eight weeks in November and December of 1978.

After being asked to perform and present an award at the 56th annual GRAMMY Awards, he declined and instead hired eight men to defecate on the red carpet outside the ceremony. Eddie gained favor in the philanthropic community by donating the vast majority of his finances to a dozen different charities, as well as personally funding a nature reserve for the agoraphobic.

A grassroots campaign sought to have Eddie run for president in 1980, even though he lacked a number of qualifications for the role—age, formal education and American citizenship among them.

But that mattered little to a disheartened nation of young people who had become disenfranchised with a system that no longer served them. Eddie often struggled with the idea of being a role model, admitting in an interview with the Hoboken Shopper, “Fuck off you maggot whores.”

In three years, Eddie Inferno changed the face of music and global geopolitics. The youth of the world were becoming an organized, frightening force with a worldview shaped by a school drop-out and admitted Soon after, kids were obsessed with the deviant. He stopped his education in third band and imitating their trademark look. grade due to “ideological conflicts” with There were international shortages of pet- his teacher, Mrs. Sandy Lynch. ticoats and velvet well into the early 1980s.

A mega-popular musician at the height Kids from the Atlantic to the Pacific could of his stardom, Eddie Inferno evolved bebe heard uttering Eddie’s catchphrase, yond the restraints of traditional artist“Get off my sack, boomers.” ry to become an unrivaled influencer. He Battles with establishment political seemed to be charting a course no one candidates and the religious right only before ever had. He was at a pivotal crossstrengthened the band’s popularity. Ed- roads in his life before he discovered he die’s message of unfocused anger and had the power to explode things with his unbridled anarchy was a rallying call for mind. the youth of America, who were looking for Anghus is encore’s 2020 fact or fiction writer, featurleadership in a time where faith in convening the serialized piece, “Burning Sensation.” Read the tional institutions and governing bodies prologue and previous chapters at encorepub.com. was at an all-time low. Like Marlon Brando 34 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

The number one reason you need a butcher in your life...

Decadence

1125-A Military Cuttoff RD. WIlmington, NC 28405 l 910-679-4473 l wearetrueblue.com encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 35

MARCH

POWER

BY SHANNON RAE GENTRY

A

t the time of ILM’s 2020 Women’s March and Rally this Saturday, Women Organizing for Wilmington (WoW!) will have protested for 150 consecutive weeks—just six weeks shy of three years—at the corner of Third and Princess streets. “And we will continue to protest until a new president is elected,” notes WoW! founder Lynn Shoemaker.

Shoemaker and WoW! have utilized these last three years as an exercise in expanding engagement and public awareness of issues affecting women and their families: access to healthcare, family planning, equal pay. WoW! is busy encouraging folks to participate in local civil protests and public processes, such as attending school board, city council and county commissioner meetings. Not to mention, they hope women consider running for public office and serving on local boards.

“WoW! has worked really hard to stick to the issues,” Shoemaker clarifies. “Although, we do not hesitate to state we are steadfast progressives who support women’s rights.”

WoW! has engaged in numerous community-centered projects, like collecting back-to-school book bags stuffed with supplies; contributing to roof repairs to shelters for women and families fleeing domestic violence; filling local food bank pantries; or collecting bras and tampons for women without shelter. In 2020 WoW! will assume a more active role in the electoral process, which is included on Saturday’s agenda.

“Our current elected officials have mostly had two years to demonstrate their commitment to women and families,” Shoemakers says. “There are some who need to be ousted and some whose seats need to be protected. . . . This year is really exciting because we are moving into

TO

DETAILS WOMEN’S MARCH 2020 Saturday, January 18, 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Innes Park, 102 N. 3rd St. March to Brooklyn Arts DistrIct, North Fourth Street, 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Free a state of empowerment.”

Since the first Women’s March in 2017 (WoW! has sponsored them from 20182020), thousands of people of all genders, ages, races and socio-economic backgrounds continue to congregate to raise awareness of women’s issues and rights.

Past marches/rallies have included a lineup of local musicians and artists presented alongside a series of guest speakers— women leaders, advocates, poets, etc..

This Saturday will welcome Izzy Stoneback from March for Our Lives and Noelle Powers from 350 Wilmington.

“The future is female [and] they are the future,” says Mary Martha “Mittens” Vaught, chair of WoW’s Woman of the Year Committee. Vaught will present the award to its third recipient this weekend.

For two years, Vaught says, each honoree unanimously has been approved: Sarah Johnson in 2018 and Kristen McKeithan in 2019. “They are superlative women,” she praises. “Each acted selflessly, creating ripples that continue to impact our community.”

cation’s Office for Civil Rights. School administrators failed to address her assault in a fair and timely manner. “Her bravery brought about change,” Vaught explains.

“New Hanover County Schools now has a new Title IX Committee [dedicated to handling these complaints].”

Kristen McKeithan founded GoodWorks after Hurricane Florence, which helped connect families in need with resources. “[Kristen McKeithan] reawakened us to caring and sharing and doing,” Vaught notes.

As far as hints about who this year’s winner is...

“Not punch, not unfairness,” Vaught offers. “You are going to love her. You probably already do.”

The 2020 all-day event will be broken up into two major parts, starting with a rally at Innes Park from 12 p.m. - 3 p.m., followed by a march to North Fourth’s Brooklyn Arts District. A lineup of femme musicians and spoken-word artists will perform at Bottega until 7 p.m., including Emily Marriott, Sarah Rose, Delthea Simmons, Freya, Lissette and Michele Wuensch. (Anyone interested can still sign up for open mic.) There also will be food trucks on site. Port City Breastfeeding Project will provide breastfeeding and diaper-changing stations at the rally at Innes Park, and Cape Fear Trolley Company will provide a free shuttle to and from the park for anyone unable to march.

More than two dozen femme advocates and leaders will speak throughout the day, including emcee Rep. Deb Butler, who was just recognized by InStyle magazine as 50 #badasswomen to watch out for in the country.

“I think Deb alone speaks volumes about where WoW! and the women of New HaJohnson was in high school when she filed a complaint against New Hanover nover County (and our nearby sister counSchools with the U.S. Department of Edu- ties) are headed in 2020,” Shoemaker says.

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Fourth annual women’s march gets under way January 18 at Innes Park “With Deb leading the way, this year’s battle cry is clear: ‘We Will Not Yield!’ She’s such a fierce fighter for the underdogs, per se, and we feel so proud to call her our representative.”

Other guest speakers include current female candidates vying for votes in 2020, such as Dr. Kyle Horton and Leslie Cohen (both candidates for NHC Commission), Ret. Colonel Marcia Morgan (running for NC House), and Commissioner Jessica Holmes for NC Commissioner of Labor.

Nevertheless, there will be one male speaker this year: Senator Harper Peterson. “He has been so instrumental behind the scenes every year in helping us set up the women’s marches and rallies,” Shoemaker notes, “just as he has in arranging public town-hall meetings to educate our community on the corporate polluting of our Cape Fear River and providing spaces to help our poorest public school children.”

Shoemaker says folks can expect to see more WoW!-organized fundraisers, phone banks and door-to-door canvassing in 2020, especially for candidates who support SNAP, public transportation, environmental protections, women’s reproductive health rights, public schools and public school employees, livable wages, affordable housing, and childcare and voter rights, among other issues.

Readers can find a comprehensive schedule of events this Saturday at the Women’s March 2020 Facebook page.

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day concerts go until midnight. Tickets $15-$200 at AudioLab at 5732 Oleander Dr. or www.ncjazzfestival.org. 301 N. Water St.

theatre/auditions CIRCUS INDUSTRY NIGHT

Every Thurs. evening. A popular spot for Wilmington’s underground fire dancers, flow artists, hoopers, jugglers, magic, sideshow and other obscure performing arts. There’s no formal show, but don’t be surprised to see things flying. No cover, no expectations. Just a night for circus artists to share tricks, try out new moves, or simply kick back, talk shop, and meet other likeminded artists. The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

events MAXIMUM OVERDRIVE: ‘70S HARD ROCK PARTY

January 15, 8pm: All vinyl till 8pm-Midnight. Like listing to records in your parent’s basement, but with better beer. For fans of Zeppelin, Sabbath, Grand Funk, and Creem Magazine. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, 111 Grace St. facebook.com/ whiskeytangofoxtrotwilmington.

LA CAGE AUX FOLLES

music OPEN-MIC AT TIDAL CREEK

Comedians, singers, songwriters, poets, yodelers! Come out the co-op on Wednesday night & show us what you got! Free coffee!

THE DRUM CIRCLE

Every Tues., 8-11pm, longest continuous Drum Circle for over 6 year provides an open forum, featuring djembe, dounbek, conga, bongo, cajon, yosika and other hand drums and percussive instruments. Friendly environment for the enjoyment of rhythm and dance. All levels, rhythms welcome! Loaner drums available. Free. Hosted by Ron at Bottega Art & Wine Bar, Brooklyn Arts District.

723 N. Fourth St.

JAZZ AT CAM

Tickets to the eight-concert series, playing a range of jazz genres in an intimate listening room performance. All concerts are 6:30-8pm, 1st Thurs., through April 2020 at Cameron Art Museum. Presented by CAM and Cape Fear Jazz Society: CAM/CFJS Members: $17; non-members: $25; students with valid college ID $12 (tax and fees not included). Feb. 6, Andrew Berinson Trio; Mar. 5, Lenora Zenzalai Helm; Apr. 2, John Brown Quintet.

CAM, 3201 S. 17th St. cameronartmuseum.org.

NOBLE GUITAR CLASS CONCERT

January 16, 6pm: Noble 7th & 8th grade guitar classes will present a concert at Blair Auditorium, Wrightsville Beach Elementary, 6510 Market Street. noble. nhcs.net/about-us/calendar

MOVIE WITH A PURPOSE: Cinematique will screen “Dark Waters” at Thalian Hall on January 15, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.—the latter time including a special Q&A with Emily Donavan, cofounder of Clean Cape Fear, an alliance formed to protect water quality in the region. Courtesy photo

CHANTICLEER

January 17, 7:30pm: Grammy Award®-winning ensemble Chanticleer celebrated its 40th anniversary in the 2018-19 season. During that season Chanticleer performed 52 concerts in 23 of the United States, 27 in the San Francisco Bay Area, and on two European tours, including Dublin, Wexford, Paris, Luxembourg, Budapest, Prague, Hannover, Leipzig, Moscow, and St. Petersburg. Praised by the San Francisco Chronicle for its “tonal luxuriance and crisply etched clarity,” Chanticleer is known around the world as “an orchestra of voices” for its seamless blend of twelve male voices ranging from soprano to bass and its original interpretations of vocal literature—from Renaissance to jazz and popular genres, as well as contemporary composition. $28-$52. The Wilson Center, 703 North Third St. capefearstage.com

PAULA AND ANGIE

January 16-19, 6:30pm: Enjoy live music at Pine Valley United Methodist Church, featuring Paula and Angie performing multiple shows. paulaandangiemusic.com. pvumc.net/whats-next.

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Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd.

NC JAZZ FESTIVAL

January 23-25, 7:30pm: 40th anniversary, 3-day event, held in the ballroom of the Hotel Ballast (formerly The Wilmington Hilton Riverside), features internationally known jazz musicians from across the U.S., Australia, and Italy.

Thursday is Special Event Night featuring different styles of jazz. Opening the event will be Wilmington’s Jon Hill Ensemble. The second set will showcase song stylist Veronica Swift accompanied by the Emmet Cohen Trio. The Thursday Evening All-stars, led by Adrian Cunningham, will close out the evening with a bit of Traditional Jazz. On Friday and Saturday nights we will have thirteen jazz all-stars playing 7 sets of traditional and classic jazz each night, with a different leader on each set. Musicians will include “rising young stars” Champian Fulton, Chris Gelb, and Ben Polcer playing with all-stars including as Houston Person, Chuck Redd, Rossano Sportiello, and Nicki Parrott. All concerts begin at 7:30pm, Thursday is a 3 hour concert, while Friday & Satatur-

Through January 18, weekends, 7:30pm, $33: Opera House Theatre Company presents “La Cage aux Folles,” a musical based on the book by Harvey Fierstein and lyrics and music by Jerry Herman.

Based on the 1973 French play of the same name by Jean Poiret, it focuses on a gay couple: Georges, the manager of a Saint-Tropez nightclub featuring drag entertainment, and Albin, his romantic partner and star attraction, and the farcical adventures that ensue when Georges’s son, Jean-Michel, brings home his fiancée’s ultra-conservative parents to meet them. $25-$33 (senior, student, military & first-responder discounts). Thalian Hall, 301 Chestnut St. thalianhall.org.

TEN-MINUTE MISCELLANY

January 15, 7pm: Auditions! Script-inhand performances to be presented at the Stein Theatre in Thalian Hall. A diverse evening of theatre showcases a wide range of theatrical styles with short plays that run the gamut of human emotion and experience. In ten minutes or less, these performances will take audiences to vastly different worlds—from the inner workings of a paranoid mind to a fictional farcical White House, from a Nazi concentration camp to a safe haven for black musicians in the Jim Crow era, and more. Directed and produced by local playwrights. February 18-19, 2020. Free! Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St. www.portcityplaywrightsproject.wordpress.com

KING JAMES LIVE

January 15-19, 7pm: Ashley Strand brings to life the gorgeous language and many of the characters of the King James Bible in this solo performance of the unabridged text of the Gospel According to Mark. A masterpiece of English literature, the KJV was nevertheless written to be spoken aloud, for a largely illiterate audience, in a style

as vivid as its stories, proverbs, and prophecies. Mark was first performed as a solo play by Alec McCowen of the RSC, earning a him Tony nomination in 1979. Ronald Sachs Violins, 616 Castle St. $20. kingjameslive.brownpapertickets.com.

film CINEMATIQUE

January 15, 7pm (4pm additional screening): “Dark Waters”—A tenacious attorney uncovers a dark secret that connects a growing number of unexplained deaths to one of the world’s largest corporations. While trying to expose the truth, he soon finds himself risking his future, his family and his own life. Rated PG-13. Also, following the 7 p.m. screening will be a Q&A with Emily Donavan, co-founder of Clean Cape Fear, an alliance formed to protect water quality in the region. Donavan has testified before Congress twice regarding DuPont/Chemours poisoning the drinking water supply for those downstream of the Fayetteville, NC Chemours facility. She recently participated in a Washington Post Live panel discussion with actor Mark Ruffalo and lawyer Rob Bilott. • “63 Up,” January 20-24, 7pm with an additional screening on Wednesday at 3pm—An exploration of the lives of British children from different socioeconomic backgrounds who are revisited every seven years to discuss their experiences and hopes for the future. Tickets: $8, thalianhall.org. Thalian Hall, 301 Chesnut Street.

art FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT

Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, Wilmington’s premier after-hours celebration of art and culture, 6-9pm, fourth Fri. ea. month. Art openings, artist demonstrations, entertainment and refreshments.

Administered by the Arts Council of Wilmington and NHC, numerous venues participate. artscouncilofwilmington. org

HOMEGROWN BY ANGELA ROWE

New art exhibit, hosted by Art in Bloom and Checker Cab Productions, at Pinpoint. “Homegrown” is about local food and the local places that offer it. Angela Rowe’s paintings explore the movement of food from farms and waters to markets and to table. Woven through these paintings are my food memories and stories, a sort of autobiography in food.

Rowe is a native of Pisgah Forest, North Carolina who grew up drawing, doodling, and creating imaginary houses from shoeboxes and paper. Angela began

taking classes at The Museum School of Cameron Art Museum and in October of 2014, she leased studio space at ACME Art Studios. She works in acrylic, mixed media, collage and print making.

114 Market St. aibgallery.com

NEW PATH: NEW ART BY DEB BUCCI

“New Path: New Art by Debra Bucci,” phenomenal oil paintings so vivid you feel as if you are inside them. Debra Bucci is known for her vibrant and engaging floral paintings. Dynamic color palettes, moving compositions and translucency from layering oils all work together to enhance the depth and bring Debra’s art to life. Her style is rooted in realism and woven with abstract elements. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St. On view until January 19, 2020. aibgallery.com.

NEW ELEMENTS HOLIDAY SHOW

New Elements Gallery is excited to announce our 34th Annual Holiday Show!

Work by 40+ of the best artists in southeastern North Carolina. Exhibit runs through January 18, 2020! 271 N. Front St. newelementsgallery.com

ART BY CAMMERON: CHILDHOOD ART

ArtByCammeron will have her childhood art on display for the first time. Collectors will have the opportunity to see her style forming as young as preschoolthroughout elementary, middle and high school ages. Prints of childhood art will be available for purchase. She is also doing original adult renditions of certain pieces from her childhood work that will be available for purchase. Nick Mijak will display work dating back to 1990 until present day, so collectors can get a sense of his stylistic exploration.

Collectors with have the opportunity to purchase prints of Nick’s early works.

He has created new works for this opening that haven’t been introduced to the public and they will be available for purchase. Bottega, 723 N 4th St.

resources. The collection will consist of immensely detailed prints, which start out as watercolor paintings that are then transferred to Adobe Photoshop to manipulate the imagery into a repeat pattern. Rachel is drawn toward colors and textures that occur in nature. Her art reveals an essence of softness as well as rigidity. Food Truck Get N Rolled will join us from 5-9pm. Flytrap, 319 Walnut St.

dance 76ERS SQUARE DANCE CLUB

Inviting all mainstream and plus square dancers to join us for our weekly evening of dance on Thursdays from 8-9:30 pm at Senior Resource Center, 2222 S. College Rd. (entrance on Shipyard Blvd.). $5/person/dance. Join: $17.50/ person/month.

SENIOR LINE DANCING

At Maides Park, Thurs., 11am-noon.

Free! Pre-reg. is not required. 1101 Manly Avenue

OVER 50’S DANCE

Mission is to provide a venue for ballroom and social dancing. Welcome dancers of all levels—great form of exercise and to socialize with others who also like to dance. The club holds a dance on the second Tuesday of each

month. Variety of DJ’s play all kinds of dance music—ballroom, Latin, shag, rock & roll, country, slow nightclub. Cost $8/person. New Hanover Sr. Resource Ctr, 2222 S. College Rd. facebook.com/ over50sdance

DRAG ME TO IBIZA

Every Friday at Ibiza Nightclub—home to some of the areas most talented female impersonators. Our exclusive drag shows take place at 10:30pm and midnight. Afterward our dance floors is yours as our resident DJ spins a variety of House, Hip hop, Top 40 & EDM until 2:30am. 18+ with Valid ID. Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

LEARN TO BELLY DANCE

Get strong! Have fun! Meet friends! Belly dance classes for women 18+, no dance experience necessary. Introvert friendly, all body sizes and shapes welcomed.

6-week series. No class Nov 26. No drop-ins. Hannah Block Historic USO/ Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St. DivineDanceGoddess.com

CONTRA DANCE

January 18, 7:30pm: An evening of energetic, contemporary American country dancing. It’s exercise that’s actually fun, done to live music by the band Box of Chocolates. A caller will lead the

ART IN BLOOM POP-UP EXHIBIT

Through January 17: Art in Bloom Gallery is delighted to host a pop-up art exhibit at the MC Erny Gallery with original art by Georgeann Haas (acrylic and mixed media on paper) and H.M. Saffer, II (oil on canvas and panel) from Monday December 2nd through January 17th, 2020. The MC Erny Gallery is on the third floor of WHQR Public Radio at 254 N. Front Street. Regular hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Mon.-Fri. except December 24-26.

WOOL REINVENTED

Flytrap welcomes featured artist Rachel Frey’s collection “Wool Reinvented.” Fiber artist Rachel Frey trained at SCAD, and creates felted pieces of all sizes through an ancient method using water and friction. Her art is fully composed of natural

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dancers through a sequence of moves.

People are friendly and beginners are always welcome, no experience necessary! It’s fun for all ages, teenagers through seniors. You don’t need a partner—we promise you’ll get to dance. In fact, you’ll dance with everybody there!

Recommended dress is cool and casual, with soft-soled shoes. Beginner lessons start at 7:30 p.m. GA for Tuesday dances: $5. • January 17-18, 7pm/9:30pm: Blair Socci—a Los Angeles-based comedian who recently moved back to her native state after 5 years in New York City. Her standup has been featured on Comedy Central, Last Call with Carson Daly, and Kevin Hart’s Lol Network. She is the co-host of The Blair and Greta Show every Tuesday in West Hollywood and the creator and host of the monthly talkshow, Dear Owen Wilson. She also wants you to know that she has a masters in creative writing from The New School because she accidentally thought she wanted to be a novelist and also that she played volleyball at UCLA. 5th Ave United Methodist Church, 409 S 5th Ave. wilmingtoncontradance.info

BELLYDANCE SHOWCASE

January 18, 9pm, $10: Ahmose is excited to bring you the first Bellydance Showcase! of the new decade! Featuring some of the most talented dancers in our area and beyond! Each show is unique and is different! Featuring also the awesome sounds of Dr Z for some original live music! A great night out with something different and fun! I hope you can join us there! Please don’t be put off by the new sign and name! The Juggling Gypsy is evolving into BarZarre! It is still the great place with the same management and cool people there! Only the name has changed! I hope to see you there for a great evening of music, laughter, dance, zagareets!, and smiles!

Barzarre, 1610 Castle St.

WORKS IN PROGRESS

January 19, 2pm: The Dance Cooperative, in association with CAM, provides informal showings to offer working choreographers a place to present works in progress to be reviewed and critiqued in a nurturing environment. The public is invited to witness the creative process and help the creator grow the works to realize their concepts to the fullest potential with feedback. Those interested in presenting work e-mail dancecooperative@gmail.com no later than the Monday preceding each showcase. Free and open to the public. Weyerhaeuser Reception Hall. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St. www.cameronartmuseum.org

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OPEN MIC

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. (910) 763-2223, after 3pm for details. jugglinggypsy.com.

GRUFF GOAT COMEDY

First Wed. ea. month, Gruff Goat Comedy features Three Guest Comics Under a Bridge. No trolls. Waterline Brewing, 721 Surry Lane.

PRIMETIME COMEDY

See some of NC’s best stand-up comedians in a world class venue! This month’s talented performers: 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.

LUCKY JOE COMEDY SHOW

First Sat. ea. month is free at Lucky Joe Craft Coffee on College Road, presented

by Regretful Villains. The show features a new style of stand-up called Speed Joking. Enjoy a night of laughs! 1414 S College Rd.

LIVE RIFFING AND VINTAGE TV

Every Wed. join Dead Crow Comedy for improv night. Join local comedians for a TV party at Dead Crow! Interactive improvised comedy show. 265 N. Front St.

DEAD CROW

Open mic every Thursday, 8pm. Sign up is in person, 7pm. There’s no cost to participate, and each comedian is allotted three minutes of stage time. • January 17-18, 7pm/9:30pm: Blair Socci is a Los Angeles-based comedian who recently moved back to her native state after 5 years in New York City. Her stand-up has been featured on Comedy Central, Last Call with Carson Daly, and Kevin Hart’s Lol Network. She was a breakout “New Face” at the 2017 Just For Laughs Montreal Festival and was also named to Bustle Magazine’s 2017 class of Comedians to Watch. You may know her from starring in the popular MTV series, Ladylike, or her from her writing and appearances on MTV’s Guy Code vs. Girl Code. Blair is the co-creator and star of the acclaimed digital series, Blair’s Lair, which follows a millennial agoraphobe with questionable morals and has been written up in Vulture and Paste Magazine. She is the co-host of The Blair and Greta Show every Tuesday in West Hollywood and the creator and host of the monthly talkshow, Dear Owen Wilson.

She also wants you to know that she has a masters in creative writing from The New School because she acciden-

tally thought she wanted to be a novelist and also that she played volleyball at UCLA. You can catch her on tour this summer with Ron Funches. www.deadcrowcomedy.com. 265 N. Front St.

BOMBERS COMEDY OPEN MIC

Sign up at 8:30; show’s at 9. Bring your best to the mic. Bomber’s Beverage Company, 108 Grace St.

LOL SHOW AT WTF!

Free! Every Thurs., 8pm! LOL, a brandnew weekly show from Wilmington’s finest improvisers, comedians, and storytellers! Using your suggestions, DareDevil Improv will create a one-of-akind comedy experience to kick off your weekend right! (Followed by karaoke!).

Plus, special guests, music, and cocktails! WTF, 111 Grace St.

CAPE FEAR COMEDY KICKBACK

January 19, 6pm: Join Wilmington’s top comedians for our local comedy showcase night! The Cape Fear Comedy Kickback includes 3 featured comics along with special guests. Enjoy a night, a lifestyle, a genesis of art and creation that people will remember for the rest of their lives by supporting live comedy and an extravagant selection of beverages at the Juggling Gypsy. $5 gets you out of the house to enjoy the long weekend and provides plenty of laughs plus a raging after party. Barzarre, 1612 Castle St.

museums CAMERON ART MUSEUM

Through Apr. 26, 2020: The Eye Learns— Modernist prints from the Louis Belden Collection—In 2017 CAM was given an unprecedented bequest of works of art from San Francisco art collector Louis Belden. The collection of 135 prints offers an endless range of expression, experimentation and expansion of the terrain of postwar modernism and includes original artworks from the leading artists, the change-makers, the radicals, the early modernist European expats, seeking asylum in this country. Among others, artists in the exhibition will include Josef Albers, Helen Frankenthaler, Wayne Thiebaud, Richard Diebenkorn, Ellsworth Kelly, Robert Rauschenberg.

• Through April 26, 2020: Structure in Space and Time - Photography by Phil Freelon—Throughout his prodigious career, award-winning architect Freelon (American, 1953-2019) found photography essential to his design vision and creative process: Photography is one of the vehicles that I use to share my view of the world. As an architect, the expression of structure is central to my design process, bringing a sense of order to the

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final composition. Photographs examine the structure that exists all around us—both in the natural and built environment. Everyone at CAM is deeply saddened by the passing of Phil Freelon on July 9, 2019. If you would like to honor his legacy you may make contributions to the North Star Church of the Arts. • CAM Café open and serving delicious menu with full bar. Brunch, Sat. and Sun., 10am-2pm; Tues.-Fri., 11am-2pm; Thurs. 5-9pm. Museum, 10am-5pm; Thurs., 10am-9pm. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St.

CAPE FEAR MUSEUM

Ongoing: Explore the history of the 20th century in this new gallery designed, curated and fabricated by the Cape Fear Museum team. The revamped 20th century gallery is the final chapter of the Museum’s core exhibit, Cape Fear Stories. The new exhibit paints a picture of New Hanover County and the dramatic social, cultural and economic transformations that shaped life in the 20th century and beyond. • Ongoing: Michael Jordan, known worldwide for his spectacular basketball skills, grew up in Wilmington. He achieved phenomenal success in basketball, and he worked hard to achieve his goals at every level. “Michael Jordan: Achieving Success” showcases his early years

and Wilmington roots. Several artifacts are on display including an unworn pair of 1987 Air Jordan 1 shoes. • Ongoing: Space Place: Hands-on STEM interactives include a robotic arm, microscopic experiments and a glove box challenge.

Visual elements offer real-time information about the International Space Station’s location and daily operations.

• Ongoing: Williston Auditorium: Education in Wilmington has a long, rich tradition, and the name “Williston” has been associated with schooling here since the 1860s. What began as an American Missionary Association school became—between 1923 and the day it closed its doors in 1968—the only high school for African Americans in New Hanover County. • Through Feb. 2, 2020: Once considered an essential part of a wardrobe, the fashion hat has experienced a steady decline in popularity since the 1960s. Today, many people associate stylish hats only with a Sunday church service or a special event.

This selection of hats reflects a number of the popular styles worn in the Cape Fear area from the 1940s through the 1960s. • Through April 12, 2020: To the Moon: Snoopy Soars with NASA examines the history of Apollo 10 and the Peanuts characters’ role in that flight and in the NASA Manned Flight Awareness safety program. • Through Feb. 23,

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2020: Dinosaur Discovery explores the world of modern paleontology and the discoveries that reveal how dinosaurs lived, moved and behaved. Everything we know about these prehistoric animals comes from fossils unearthed by paleontologists. These scientists study ancient life by examining their finds and piecing together clues from the past.

This exhibit was developed by the Virginia Museum of Natural History. CF Museum, 814 Market St. capefearmuseum.com

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 yr. history of WB. (910) 256-2569. 303 W. Salisbury St. www.wbmuseum.com.

WILMINGTON RR 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, fullsize 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, 10am4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. Latimer House of Lower CF Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. 3rd 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-19th century decor and gardens. Colonial life experienced through historical interpre-

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tations in kitchen and courtyard. 3rd/ Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. 910-762-0570. burgwinwrighthouse.com.

BELLAMY MANSION MUSEUM

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 (1821-1907) and their nine children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington.

Now a museum, it focuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action. Tour hours are Mon-Sat. 10 am-4 pm and Sundays 1-4 pm. Self-guided tours (paper or audio) can begin at any time in the day and guided tours begin at the top of the hour when available.

Adults $12; Senior, Military, College $10; Students $6; children under 5 are free.

503 Market St. 910-251-3700. www. bellamymansion.org

BATTLESHIP 101

January 18, 10am: Friendly, knowledgeable volunteers throughout the ship engage visitors in areas including gun-

nery, radar, sick bay, galley, engineering, and daily shipboard life. Try on helmets, raise signal flags, “text” using semaphore flags, tap out your name using Morse code, type on vintage typewriters and more! A great event for all ages.

Bring your questions and cameras! Free with Battleship admission. Battleship NC, 1 Battleship Rd. battleshipnc.com.

kids stuff SNAKE AND TURTLE FEEDING

Brief presentation about live animals on display in the events center and watch them feed. At least one snake and turtle will be fed during the demonstration.

Ages: 3 and up. First Wed. every month, $1. Halyburton Park, 4099 S. 17th St.

ART EXPLORER THURSDAYS

Bring your little ones to CAM for story reading and art making! Enjoy open studio time with your family. Such as reading stories, creating art with a variety of supplies, and having fun with friends!

No pre-registration necessary. Parental Supervision required at all times.

Suggested donation: $5/family. 3201 S. 17th St. www.cameronartmuseum.org

HAPPY LITTLE SINGERS

Happy Little Singers is an affordable, creative early childhood (Pre-K) mu-

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sic and movement program, designed for infants, toddlers, pre-schoolers and young students up to age 6 (older children and siblings enjoy the program, as well). So much fun for you and your little one! With every nurturing and creative class, you will see your child expressing themselves in new ways, developing new skills and competency, matching rhythm and singing, playing instruments. You may also notice a significant increase in both fine and gross motor skills, eye-hand coordination, language and listening skills, social skills and self-esteem. The class will also help reinforce the bond between you and your child. Classes held every Tues, 9:45-11:30am, Hannah Block Community Arts Center. Cost is $10 per family. 910-777-8889 to register. susansavia.com/happy-little-singers.

Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Ctr., 120 S. 2nd St.

LITTLE EXPLORERS

Bring your “Little Explorers” out to the park and 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. Ages: 2-5. $3/person.. 12/12-13, 10-11am: When is win-

ter? Halyburton Park, 4099 S 17th St.

THE GILLS CLUB

January 18, 8:30am: Are you a girl age 10-14? Do you like sharks or want to learn more about them? Sign up for our new chapter of Gills Club! The Gills Club is Atlantic White Shark Conservancy’s STEM-based education initiative dedicated to connecting girls with female scientists from around the world, sharing knowledge, and inspiring shark and ocean conservation. The Gills Club will meet on January 18, April 18 and July 18, 8:30am-noon. gail.lemiec@ ncaquariums.com. NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, 900 Loggerhead Rd.

POLAR PENGUIN PARTY

January 17, 9am-12pm—Ages 5 & under. Got cabin fever? Waddle on down to Fit For Fun for a wintertime shindig!

Cozy up inside and join us for penguin games, crafts, and snacks. Don’t forget to wear your favorite scarf or hat!

Pre-registration is required by visiting www.fitforfuncenter.com. $5/child (included with general admission). Fit For Fun Center, 302 S. 10th St.

MLK FUN DAY

Saturday, January 18, 11am-2pm. Free.

Activities & games. Martin Luther King Center, 401 S 8th St. wilmingtonrecreation.com

EAGLE ISLAND CRUISES

Saturday and Sundays thru January

Join us on a scenic 50-minute narrated eco-history cruise featuring views of unspoiled nature and a variety of wildlife daily.

Enjoy a relaxing ride on the river on our comfortable catamaran as you learn more about Wilmington, NC from our friendly captain and crew. Gain a new perspective on our history and our ecology as we share fun facts and historical anecdotes as we cruise along the Cape Fear River.

On the even hours, we cruise north along the Historic Downtown and Eagles Island where you see the past come alive. Capture unique views of the Battleship, learn about rice plantations, and view shipwrecks, flora, and fauna on this 50-minute adventure.

Visit us on the Riverwalk! 212 S. Water Street 910-338-313 4 • email: info@wilmingtonwt.com

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

Follow us

BAR ON BOARD WITH ALL ABC PERMITS

Complete Schedule: wilmingtonwatertours.net

On the odd hours, we head south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge to the State Ports, learn the history of a WWII Wilmington Ship Yard along with current facts while watching tug boats, container ships, and pleasure boats… bring your camera along, there are photo ops in every direction!

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JOIN THE YMCA

Whatever your goals are, the Y can help you get there.

No Annual Contracts Unlimited Fitness Classes Sports, Recreation & Family Programs Free Drop-In Child Care Year-Round Swimming Access to YMCAs Across the Nation

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Special

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come, or how it will impact the 2020 election? Do you have your own questions? Join the UNCW Department of Public and International Affairs along with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute present a panel discussion on “Impeachment 101: What Can We Learn From Political Science?” Admission is free and open to the public, so don’t miss out! Panelists include political scientists Drs. Nadine Gibson, Jennifer Horan, Aaron King (moderator), Julie Lane, and Stephen Meinhold as well as political historian Dr. David Houpt. UNCW Lumina Theater, 615 Hamilton Dr. uncw.edu.

KIDS AT CAM

January 18, 11am: We make quilts to celebrate events, to show friends and family how much we care, and to remember those we love. Guest artist and quilter Bobbi Fitzsimmons will show children how to create a quilt block with fabric and fabric markers.

The blocks will become part of the “Kids @ CAM 2020” quilt to be displayed for all to enjoy. Explore our exhibitions with one of our fun family guides (ask for one at the front desk) and stay for lunch at the CAM Cafe! Fun for all ages! Suggested donation $5/child. Parental supervision required at all times. No pre-registration necessary. cameronartmuseum. org. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

CREATIVE WRITING AT CAM

recreational FIRST FRIDAY BIRD HIKES

Join park staff for a leisurely bird-watching stroll around Halyburton Park the first Friday of each month. We’ll search for migrants and point out year-round bird species too.

These walks are for beginner birders and all are welcome. Free. Ages: 5 and up. Halyburton Park, 4099 S 17th St. wilmingtonnc.gov/departments/ parks-recreation/halyburton-park

SPRING LAKE SHIVER RACE

January 18, noon: Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation invites you to participate in our third annual polar splash event, the Spring Lake Shiver, at Spring Lake Park in Boiling Spring Lakes, NC. Individuals or teams will splash into the chilly waters of Spring Lake Park to raise funds for Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation’s water safety programs and swim lesson scholarship program, the Brunswick School of Fish. Creative costumes are encouraged for prizes. Jump in the lake on your own or build a team to raise funds (and fun!) together. Bring friends and family to join in and make a splash to help prevent drowning! Jack Helbig Memorial Foundation’s mission is to prevent drowning through education and awareness. Drowning is a leading cause of death of children ages 1-4 years; a fact too many families are unaware of until the tragedy of drowning happens to them. jackhelbig.org. Spring Lake Park, 210 Pine Rd.

classes/seminars MEDITATE AND CHILL

Join Jesse Stockton + Jenny Yarborough every Tues., 7:30-8:30pm, Terra Sol Sanctuary. 20-30 minute meditation

to help you take a deep breath. Relax.

Let go. $10; no need to register in advance. 507 Castle St. terrasolsanctuary. com.

ELEMENTS OF SONGWRITING CLASS

In Elements of Songwriting we will examine the major elements of what goes into writing original music. We will study lyrics, melody, harmony, form, rhythm, and survey techniques used to enhance your songwriting. We will look at examples of music and lyrics, and discuss creative strategies for finding ideas and completing songs. Class will meet Mondays, 12-2 p.m., Southport.

704 N. Lord Street, Southport. mcfallb@ brunswickcc.edu or 910-755-7300.

WILMINGTON OM BREW FALL SERIES

Tuesdays from 6-7pm join us and Yoga Village at the brewery for donation-based yoga. Suggested donation is $15 but you may pay-what-youcan, if needed. Donations support Yoga Village community programming. Wilmington Brewing Company, 824 South Kerr Ave. facebook.com/ events/2538362336408659.

SENIOR CLASSES

Takes place Thursdays, fitness classes, 10am, and line-dancing classes, 11am.

Free. Maides Park, 1101 Manly Ave.

FREE FITNESS CLASSES

Boot Camp, Tuesdays, through Mar. 31, 5:30-6:30pm • Zumba, Thursdays, through Mar. 26, 5:30 – 6:30pm.

Children 5-17 can participate in fitness classes when accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required. maidespark.com. Maides Park, 1101 Manly Ave.

FLUID ART FREESTYLE

Discover the most addicting, fascinatingly beautiful act of acrylic pouring.

You choose the colors and control the movement of the paint to create truly delightful happy accidents. The playing field is even and the results are delicious! We will cover the principles, materials, mediums and several basic techniques of acrylic pouring. Feel free to bring your favorite wine or beer (no hard liquor please), some snacks and a few friends for a truly fun and relaxing experience. You will complete a 16×20 canvas. Once registration is completed, all sales are final. $40. Menagerie Design Studio, 805 North 4th St.

IMPEACHMENT 101

January 15, 6pm: Are you interested in the current impeachment process in the U.S.? Would you like to know more about what impeachment is, what roles politics and the public have to play, what history might predict for the out-

January 15, 6:30pm: A creative writing workshop in fiction and memoir for adult writers open to community participants with varying degrees of writing expertise. The workshop follows a traditional format where group members critique one another’s work with the instructor’s guidance. Literature is presented for discussion and writing assignments may be assigned to complete in class. The goal is to instill respect and compassion in the critique process while helping participants improve their writing and literary analysis. All Levels, January 15 – Feb. 19, Wed. 6:30p – 8:30p (6-wk class).

CAM member: $132; Non-member: $165. Instructor: Dina Greenberg Register online: cameronartmuseum.org.

Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

AIDS MEMORIAL QUILT PANEL-MAKING

January 18, 1:15pm: Panels might be created using paint, needlework, ironon transfers, quilted, handmade appliqués, etc. Any remembrance is appropriate. However, the only way to have a name added to The Quilt is to make a panel. We are offering a free panel-making workshop to assist friends and family realize their desire to memorialize a loved one. You may choose to create a panel privately and just wish to get some ideas or discuss your thoughts.

Or, you may wish to make the panel with others in the tradition of an old-fashioned quilting bee, possibly including friends, family, and co-workers. The choice, like virtually everything else involved in making a panel, is completely up to you. frankharrfoundation.org.

Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St.

CAPE FEAR FENCING CLASSES

Cape Fear Fencing Association 6 week beginning fencing class, 6:30pm, in the basement of the Tileston gym. Class will meet for approximately 1 hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays, All fencing

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UPCOMING EVENTS THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 | 7:00PM | Men’s Basketball vs Hofstra White Out-All fans encouraged to wear white; Halftime – Snipes Dribbles GAME SPONSOR: CAMPUS EVOLUTION VILLAGES

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 | 7:00PM | Women’s Basketball vs JMU

GAME SPONSOR: CAMDEN FOREST, WILSHIRE LANDING, PLATO’S LOFTS ON RANDALL

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 | 7:00PM | Men’s Basketball vs Northeastern 2000 CAA Men’s Basketball Championship Team Reunion GAME SPONSOR: REEDS JEWELERS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19 | 2:00PM

Women’s Basketball vs Towson GAME SPONSOR: BOJANGLES

FREE Sweet biscuit coupon to all attendees 48 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

equipment provided, students should wear loose fitting clothing and sneakers. Appropriate for ages 8 – 80. Cost is $50 plus a $10 membership to USA Fencing good until July 31, 2020.

Taught by Internationally accredited instructor. Tileston Gym, 412 Ann St. capefearfencing.com

January 18, 8pm: Listen to poets puttin’ down the true spoken word, hosted

by Bigg B and Sandra, themiddaymiss and music by DJ Mike Lang of COAST Radio (97.3 FM). This special edition of the Poetry Jam features a theme tied to commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Purchase seats the night of at the door; CAM Café cash bar and light bites available for purchase. For details or to participate as a poet email: sandra@ coast973.com or call the studio line: 910.763.0973. Admission: $10. Weyerhaeuser Reception Hall. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION ED CLASS

January 21, 6pm, free: Learn about electromagnetic fields (EMF) and radiation and which ones are concerning to you and your family, where these are located in homes and businesses, biological processes that lead to health impairments, and how 5G (the 5th generation of wireless technology) will significantly increase the current EMF overload. Also addressed are measures you can take to immediately and inexpensively mitigate the health impacts of this technology. Speaker Terry Hassler, Certified Building Biologist, will offer this free lecture in the Pine Room of the Northeast Branch of New Hanover County Library. New Hanover County Northeast Branch Library 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

WRITERS OF THE FOREST

literary/readings COAST POETRY JAM

January 19, 2:30pm: Writers of the Forest, based in Brunswick County, announce the release of their second anthology titled “Coastal Winds and Other Musings.” Special reception at 2:30pm with readings at 3:15-4pm. Meet the writers, listen to excerpts from the book, and enjoy snacks. Free and open to the public. This will be the first in a series of readings to be held in 2020 at the Art in Bloom Gallery. Edited by Claudia Blanchard and John Stipa, the anthology, “Coastal Winds and Other Musings” is a collection of poetry and prose. The various stories are about more than a place or a thing. Former lives have been left behind to pursue dreams in a newly

adopted home. The Writers of the Forest are Claudia Blanchard, Terry L. Dismore, Barbara Dullaghan, Lorraine Gilmore, Lee Norman Mehler, Diane Pascoe, John Stickney, John Stipa, and Suzy Tenenbaum. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St.

clubs/notices BIKE NIGHT

Bike Night at Mac’s Speed Shop, beer, bikes, BBQ. Featuring in concert: South Starr band playing great classic-southern R&R music! Mac’s Speed Shop, 4126 Oleander Dr.

UNRAVELED

First Thurs. every month, 10am, a morning of knitting or crochet and conversation. This is a self-guided drop-in program. All skill levels welcome. Bring your own materials and projects to work on; supplies not provided. Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

SENIOR SOCIAL TIME

Tues. 10:30am-no. Arts & crafts, speakers, movies, trips and more. Free. Maides Park, 1101 Manly Ave.

EDUCATOR’S NIGHT AT CAM

January 16, 4-7pm: Educators can enjoy a night at the museum with free admis-

sion to view our current exhibitions: “The Eye Learns: Modernist Prints” from the Louis Belden Collection; “Structure in Space in Time: Photography” by Phil Freelon; and “Unfolding Noguchi.” All educators and administrators—from pre-K to college—welcome and encouraged to attend and explore fun ways to bring art into your classroom and spark creativity in your students. One complimentary drink ticket for all registered participants!

Full bar and half price bottles of wine and light bites provided by CAM Café.

Music by guitarist Justin Jernigan. 30 Minute Docent Tours, 5:30pm for “The Eye Learns”; 6pm, “Unfolding Noguchi.” Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St. cameronartmuseum.org

HILL SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE

January 21, 5:30pm: Annual Hill School of Wilmington Open House.

Teachers and staff will be on hand to answer questions about our programs, curriculum, admissions, and much more. Registration is not required. hillschoolofwilmington.org. The Hill School of Wilmington, 3333 Jaeckle Drive, Suite 140

NEW HANOVER NAACP

January 18, 9am: 16th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast at the Mid-

Remember to take care of yourself during the new year.

J Daniel Pierce PHOTOGRAPHY

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town YMCA, 709 George Anderson Drive, Wilmington. Featured speaker is Dr. Jay Augustine, JD, pastor of St. Joseph AME Church, Durham and national chaplain of Alpha Psi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Church of the year and Minister of the Year will also be recognized.

All proceeds benefit New Hanover NAACP’s youth programs, including ACT-SO, Sankofa Summer Academy, Youth Council and scholarships. Tickets are a $30 donation and can be purchased at the Wilmington Journal, 412 South Seventh Street and Davis Funeral Home, 901 Fifth Avenue. Online Tickets available through eventbrite.com event/NHC NAACP MLK, Jr Breakfast, or ordered from New Hanover NAACP, P. O. Box 2199, Wilmington, NC 28402.

910-508-9414 or nhcnaacp@gmail. com. Midtown YMCA, 709 George Anderson Dr.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE PALOOZA

January 18, 2pm: Taste cookies. Discover the types of adventures that Girl Scouts hold dear for a lifetime. Experience financial literacy through Cookie University. Learn about community service projects that Girl Scouts enjoy regularly and how you can share in these opportunities. Make SWAPS. Check out the Girl Scout Shop. Explore how Girl Scouts get outdoors. Trav-

el the world through a girl’s eyes. Buy cookies! Find the right troop for you.

Join in activities for the whole family! nccoastalpines.org/en/activities/activity-calendar.html. Girl Scouts North Carolina Coastal Pines Wilmington Service Center, 2250 Shipyard Blvd., Suite 3

MLK JR. PROGRAM: CLIMATE CRISIS

January 20, 6pm: MLK, Jr. Program: Climate Crisis Is Also An Environmental Justice Crisis. James C. Woodley, Environmental Biologist and environmental activist, will present, “The Climate Crisis Is Also An Environmental Justice Crisis,” focusing on impacts in North Carolina, including the destructive wood pellet industry. Mr. Woodley has a B.S. in Zoology and an M.S. in Biology. Since retiring from his position as an Environmental Biologist at the EPA in Washington, DC in 2004, Mr. Woodley has continued his environmental advocacy, including founding Jail And Prison Rehabilitation Information (JAPRI) Community Outreach Program of Greenville, NC, which provides rehabilitation services to juvenile and adult male individuals in Pitt County who have been incarcerated and/or are likely to participate in activities that will lead them into jail or prison. JAPRI participants assist in environmental activism and education, health education, and community well-being. Mr. Woodley grew up in the forests of northeastern North Carolina and currently lives in Greenville. Halyburton Park, 4099 S 17th St, Wilmington. Mix and mingle with pizza at 6 pm; presentation starts at 6:30 pm. capefearsierraclub.com.

culinary FERMENTAL CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS! Monday, December 23 Wednesday, December 25

KYLE LINDLEY 6-9PM

1/17

DA HOWLIES! 8-10PM

FRI THURS

1/16

A&Ms Food Truck, 6-9pm

Free tasting every Friday, 6pm. Third Wednesday 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. www.fermental.net 910-821-0362.

7250 Market St.

TRAVIS SHALLOW DUO 7-9PM

FREE BREWERY TOURS AND TASTINGS

1/19

YOGA: SUNDAY FLOW 11AM-12PM WITH DEVAN 4-6PM STRAY LOCAL

SWEET N SAVORY WINE TASTING

SUN

SAT

1/18

Soulful Twist, 6-8pm

2Bros Coastal Cuisine, 3-6pm

721 Surry Street Wilmington waterlinebrewing.com

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

Wine & cider are available.

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.

Wed, 5-8pm: Sample some of the most delicious wines you can try for free with optional $25 food pairing, designed specifically to go with each wine. Benny Hill Jazz always starts at 7 pm with his cool jazz styles. Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavilion Pl.

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PORT CITY GREAT BURGER CHALLENGE

In 30 mins, eat 48 ounces of burger meat with three toppings and fries!

Beat it and we take care of the bill and put your face on the Wall of Glory! Fail, and straight to The Wall of Shame you go. Bring your stretchy pants and good luck! Offer is daily. 11am-11pm, Port City Burgers & Brews, 11 Market St.

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. 249 N. Front St. brownpapertickets.com/ event/1282390

GHOST WALK

6:30-8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted Wilmington. Nightly tours, 6:30pm/8:30pm. Water and Market sts.

RSVP rqd: 910-794-1866. www.hauntedwilmington.com

BELLAMY MANSION MUSEUM

Follow curved shell paths through gardens shaded by 150-year old magnolias. See the original, restored slave quarters building along with the 22room antebellum mansion. Learn about the Bellamy family as well as the free black and enslaved artisans who built the home and the enslaved workers who lived on site after its completion. Adults $12; Senior, military, college $10; Students $6; children under 5 are free. 503 Market St. 910-251-3700. bellamymansion.org. Tours Mon-Sat. 10 am-4 pm and Sundays 1-4 pm. Self-guided tours (paper or audio) can begin at any time in the day and guided tours begin at the top of the hour when available.

MASONBORO SHELLING TOUR

Explore Masonboro Island and discover the wonder of the Carolina coast. This tour option is ideal for families, birders, and nature enthusiasts. Masonboro Island is an 8.4-mile marine sanctuary island, renowned for its plant and wildlife diversity. Topics will include shell biology, native plant species, shorebirds, and barrier island ecology. Adult $45, child $25 RSVP: 910-200-4002. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd

OFF THE RECORD TOURS

Thurs., 6:30pm: CAM Gallery tours, led by museum staff, are sometimes irreverent and silly, but always provide a charming and engaging behind-thescenes perspective on current exhibi-

tions. But what if I’m really thirsty before the tour? Join us for happy hour beforehand to loosen up your brain and chat about art. Brown Wing. CAM Members: Free, non-members. Museum admission. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

WALKING TOUR OF CAROLINA BEACH

Wxalking Tour of the Historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk meets at the Visitors Bureau Kiosk just south of the new Hampton Inn and features members of the Federal Point Historic Preservation Society leading a 50-minute tour into the past, answering questions like: Where did the “birth of the Shag” take place? Did you know there was a movie theater called The Wave on the Boardwalk? How long has Britt’s Donuts been on the Boardwalk, and has it always been in the same place? Why was the Red Apple so popular? Where was the largest dance floor south of Washington DC located? Society asks for a $10 donation. Children under 12 tour free. Carolina Beach Board Walk, Cape Fear Blvd.

WEEKLY EXHIBITION TOURS

Cameron Art Museum: Explore, discuss and learn more about the artwork currently on view at CAM. Members: free.

Museum admission all others. CAM, 3201 S. 17th St. www.cameronartmuseum.org

support groups WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP

Grades 7-12: Wilmington Pride Yxqouth Group is a safe space for youth who identify as LGBTQIA+ and their straight allies. An adult supervised, safe space for kids to talk about orientation, gender, racial equality, political consequences, religion, self care. A great opportunity to meet and socialize with peers from the greater Wilmington area. Meets Thurs., 7pm. Needed: youth facilitators, especially those who are trained to work with kids, and speakers to talk about important topics. wpyg2016@gmail.com.

ANXIETY/OCD SUPPORT GROUP

Group meets 1st & 3rd Thurs. of each month. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Bldg 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. 18+ welcome. 910-763-8134

LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP

Meets third Sat. ea. 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, encour-

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age and support positive coping strategies, and emphasize the importance of medical treatment. Guest speakerss, DVD presentations and open group discussion. info@lupusnc.org (877) 8498271, x1. lupusnc.org. NE Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

PFLAG

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

MS SUPPORT GROUP

Those with Multiple Sclerosis, families and friends welcome. Meets 2nd Thursday each month, 7 p.m., at the New Hanover Rehabilitation Hospital, 1st floor conference room, 2131 S. 17th St. (behind the Betty Cameron Women’s Hospital). Sponsored by Greater Carolinas Chapter, National MS Society. Details: Anne (910) 232-2033 or Burt (910) 3831368. New Hanover Regional Medical Hospital, 2131 S. 17th St.

COPING WITH DEATH OF SPOUSE/PARTNER

Lower Cape Fear Hospice will offer a six-week, no-cost grief program for those coping with the death of a spouse or partner in Brunswick County on Tuesdays, January 7 through Feb. 11. The group will meet 2-4 p.m. at the SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, 955 Mercy Lane SE in Bolivia. Pre-registration is required; call 910-796-8056 to register.

• In Wilmington the group will meet on Wednesdays, January 8 through Feb. 12, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion Conference Room, 1406 Physicians Drive in Wilmington. Pre-registration is required; call 910-796-7991 to register. lcfh.org

COPING WITH DEATH OF A CHILD

Lower Cape Fear Hospice will offer a six-week, no-cost grief program for those coping with the death of a child in Bolivia on Thursdays, January 9 through Feb. 13. The group will meet 10 a.m. to noon at the SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, 955 Mercy Lane SE in Bolivia. Pre-registration is required; call 910-796-8056 to register.

ARIES (Mar. 21–April 19) Comedian John Cleese has an insight I hope you’ll consider: “It’s easier to do trivial things that are urgent than it is to do important things that are not urgent. It’s also easier to do little things we know we can do than to start on big things that we’re not so sure about.” I hope you’ll make this advice a priority in coming weeks. You’ll be wise to prioritize important tasks, even those that aren’t urgent, as you de-emphasize trivial matters that tempt you to think they’re crucial. Focus on big things that challenge rather than little things that are a snap.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Author Honoré Balzac (1799–1850) was born with sun and Mercury in Taurus and in the tenth house. Astrologers might hypothesize from these placements he was ambitious, productive, tenacious, diligent, realistic and willful. The evidence supporting this theory is strong. Balzac wrote over 80 novels that displayed a profound and nuanced understanding of the human comedy. I predict 2020 will be a year when you could make dramatic progress in cultivating a Balzac-like approach in your own sphere. But here’s a caveat: Balzac didn’t take good care of his body. He drank far too much coffee and had a careless approach to eating and sleeping. My hope is, as you hone your drive for success, you’ll be impeccable in tending to your health.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Before he was 21 years old, William Shakespeare’s wife birthed three kids. When he was 25, while the brood was still young, he started churning out literary masterpieces. By the time Will became a grandfather at age 43, he had written many of the works that ultimately made him one of history’s illustrious authors. From this evidence, we might speculate being a parent and husband heightened his creative flow. I bring it to your attention because I want to ask you: What role will commitment, duty and devotion play in your life during the coming months? (I suspect it’ll be a good one.)

tors syndiCate

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Cancerian-born painter Stanley Spencer (1891–1959) didn’t align himself with any artistic movement. Early on, his work was an odd blend of French Post-Impressionism and 14th-century Italian painting. I appreciate his stylistic independence, and suggest you draw inspiration from it in 2020. Another unique aspect of Spencer’s art was its mix of eroticism and religiosity. I think you’ll enjoy exploring that blend yourself in the coming months. Your spiritual and sexual longings could be quite synergistic. There’s one part of Spencer’s

Among other requirements, an

quirky nature I don’t recommend you imitate, however. He often wore pajamas beneath his clothes, even to formal occasions. Doing that wouldn’t serve your interests. (But it will be healthy for you to be somewhat indifferent to people’s opinions.)

in your own life. In other words, draw attention to the things you want to emphasize by downplaying them or being mysterious about them or suggesting they are secret. Reverse psychology can be an asset for you..

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-December 21)

Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press in the 1440s. In subsequent decades millions of mass-produced books became available for the first time, making their contents available to a far wider audience than ever before. The printing press caused other changes, too—some not as positive. For instance, people who worked as scribes found it harder to get work. In our era big culture-wide shifts are impacting our personal lives. Climate change, the internet, smart phones, automation, and human-like robots are just a few examples. What are doing to adjust to the many innovations? What will you do in the future? Now is an excellent time to meditate on these issues.

Because of the onslaught of the internet and social media, lots of people no longer read books.

But in 2020, I highly recommend that you *not* be one of that crowd. In my astrological opinion, you need more of the slow, deep wisdom that comes from reading books. You will also benefit from other acts of rebellion against the Short Attention Span Era. Crucial blessings will flow in your direction as you honor the gradual, incremental approach to everything.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You’re skilled at the art of self-editing. When bright new ideas well up in you, you understand they are not yet ready for prime time, but will need to be honed and finessed. When your creativity overflows, tantalizing you with fresh perspectives and novel approaches, you know that you’ll have to harness the raw surge. However, it’s also true that sometimes you go too far in your efforts to refine your imagination’s breakthroughs; you over-think and over-polish. But I have a good feeling about the coming weeks, Virgo. I suspect you’ll find the sweet spot, self-editing with just the right touch.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Thomas Love Peacock was a Libran author whose specialty was writing satirical novels that featured people sitting around tables arguing about opinions and ideas. He was not renowned for cheerful optimism. And yet he did appreciate sheer beauty.

“There is nothing perfect in this world,” he said, “except Mozart.” So much did Peacock love Mozart’s music that during one several-month stretch he attended six performances of the genius’s opera *Don Giovanni*. In this spirit, Libra, and in accordance with astrological indicators, I encourage you to make a list of your own perfect things—and spend extra time communing with them in the coming weeks.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Jean-Michel Basquiat started his career as a graffiti artist. When he evolved into being a full-time painter, he incorporated words amidst his images.

On many occasions, he’d draw lines through the words. Why? “I cross out words so you will see them more,” he said. “The fact that they are obscured makes you want to read them.” In the coming weeks, you might benefit from discreetly using this strategy

CAPRICORN (December 22-January 19) “I love to be surprised by something I have never thought of,” declares Capricorn actor Ralph Fiennes. According to my analysis of the astrological aspects, you’ll be wise to make that one of your top mottoes in 2020. Why? First, life is likely to bring to your attention a steady stream of things you’ve never imagined. And, second, your ability to make good use of surprises will be at an all-time high.

Here’s further advice to help ensure that the vast majority of your surprises will be welcome, even fun: Set aside as many of your dogmas and expectations as possible, so that you can be abundantly receptive to things you’ve never thought of.

AQUARIUS (January 20-Feb. 18) “I love fools’ experiments. I am always making them.” So said one of the most famous and influential scientists who ever lived, Aquarian-born naturalist Charles Darwin. In accordance with upcoming astrological factors, I invite you to draw inspiration from his approach. Allow yourself to explore playfully as you conduct fun research. Just assume that you have a mandate to drum up educational experiences, and that a good way to do that is to amuse yourself with improvisational adventures.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) “How do you get your main pleasure in life?”

That question was posed to Scorpio author Evelyn Waugh and Piscean social reformer William Beveridge. Waugh said, “I get mine spreading alarm and despondency.” Beveridge said, “I get mine trying to leave the world a better place than I found it.” I hope you will favor Beveridge’s approach over Waugh’s in 2020, Pisces—for two reasons.

First, the world already has plenty of alarm and despondency; it doesn’t need even a tiny bit more.

Second, aspiring to be like Beveridge will be the best possible strategy for fostering your mental and physical health.

encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com 53

Saturday, February 1 at 7:30 pm TickeT cenTral • 910.362.7999 • WilsoncenTerTickeTs.com 54 encore | january 15 - january 21, 2020 | www.encorepub.com

CROSSWORD

Creators syndiCate CREATORS SyNDICATE © 2017 STANLEy NEWMAN

THE NEWSDAy CROSSWORD

WWW.STANXWORDS.COM

2/5/17

Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)

FEATHER OR NOT: Try to wing it

by Gail Grabowski ACROSS 1 Syrian __ Republic 5 Of eyesight 10 Vegetarian’s avoidance 14 Winter wear 19 Sported 20 MetLife competitor 21 Pac-12 team 22 Miser’s motivation 23 Boy with many merit badges 25 Meshed well 27 Highbrow type 28 Sales pitch 30 Bumps against 31 Stanley Cup awarder 33 Barbers’ sharpeners 36 Wind quintet member 37 Old West vehicles 41 Bicuspid, e.g.

43 Concessionary cry 47 Like second-quality mdse.

48 Construction site worker 53 Evil spell 54 Myanmar neighbor 56 Telltale sign 57 Ruminated 58 Résumé, for short 59 In a melancholy manner 61 Bicyclist’s challenge 64 Asian cuisine 65 Long-range weapon, for short 66 Op-ed piece 67 Porthole view 69 Annuls 71 Square-corner shape 72 Farewell performances 75 Pub serving 76 Vigilant 79 Split apart

80 High-IQ club 83 Largest Caribbean island 84 Clumsy ones 87 Speak excitedly 88 Choose 89 Walked (on) 90 Odometer reading 92 Tilted type: Abbr.

94 Sewed line 95 Pac-12 team 96 Spanish-owned archipelago 100 Prior night 101 Try to prevent 103 Verbose 104 Made up one’s mind 106 Hard to come by 109 Fencing ploys 112 Lightning attractor 113 Burger turner 116 Took a risk 118 Salad dressing flavor 122 Stine series 125 Postpone 127 Carrier for crude 128 “__ Sir or Madam . . .”

129 Be in a bee 130 October birthstone 131 Walks heavily 132 Ultimate purposes 133 Hair-raising 134 Mail away DOWN 1 Amazes 2 Speckled horse 3 2012 Affleck film 4 Fit in 5 Western Hemisphere alliance 6 They’re worked by push-ups 7 Sporty auto roofs

8 Language that “kayak” came from 9 Serve specially 10 Wet dirt 11 Earth-friendly prefix 12 Edison’s middle name 13 Martial-arts/fitness regimen 14 FedEx Cup organizer 15 Out of bed 16 Pull up stakes, to Realtors 17 Sharp, as vision 18 Throw into the mix 24 Value system 26 Spot for a soak 29 Roller coaster feature 32 Artist Neiman 34 Rhythmic writing 35 Walk with a swagger 37 Nautical nonsense 38 Eurasian range 39 Complain over 40 Cheerless 42 Discuss, with “out” 44 Minimal money 45 Don’t disturb 46 Academic hurdles 49 Strong refusal 50 Novelist Jong 51 Pulls apart 52 Comics pooch 55 Classified, typically 58 Blue flowers of rhyme 60 Country singer Lovett 62 Most of a monocle 63 Sci-fi weapon 68 PBS science series 70 Jazz accompaniment 72 Wood finish 73 Author Shute

74 76 77 78 81 82 85 86 88 91 93

Screen legend Garbo Set of eight Drink slowly Tomato variety Dry Italian wine Equipped for battle Imperfection Calligraphy stroke Born earlier “Auld Lang __” “What’s more . . .”

96 97 98 99 102 105 107 108 110 111 113

Lunar features Brief confession Neural junction Show disdain for Deleted Baking potatoes Barbecue seasoning Slip away from Nonsense “Night Moves” singer Garden center bagful

114 Golf shop purchase 115 Prayer wrap-up 117 Supermarket department 119 “Don’t think so” 120 Extended family 121 Gripped 122 Elephants’ org.

123 Launch site 124 Typical SAT takers 126 World Cup cheer

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

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