July 11, 2018

VOL. 35 / PUB. 51 JULY 11 - 17, 2018

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The Perfect Comedy

Alchemical Theatre’s ‘Twelfth Night’ opens second annual Lumina Arts Fest on Thursday

COURTESY PHOTOS CAPE FEAR RUGBY 7S

HODGEPODGE Vol. 35/Pub. 51

July 11 - July 17, 2018

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Friday, May - 116a.m.

Saturday, July6 14, p.m.

LUMINA ARTS FEST, PGS. 16-18 ON THE COVER

event of the week

This week marks the beginning of UNCW’s second annual Lumina Arts Festival, July 12-29, which celebrates local, regional and national visual and performing artists. Lumina Fest continues to expand its community partnerships, including those with Cucalorus Festival, Wilmington Latin Dance and Black Arts Alliance, to name a few. The latter will benefit from the Lumina Fest Poetry Jam, featuring Israel “Negus Izzy” Sorenson (left), on Friday.

Read more about the Lumina Arts Festival on pg. 16; read the cover story of Alchemical Theatre’s ‘Twelfth Night’ on pg. 17; and more on the Poetry Jam on pg. 18.

Cape Fear Roller Girls Come check out Wilmington’s only roller derby team for an action-packed double header at Jellybean’s (5216 Oleander Dr.) this Saturday. Featuring craft beer for the adults and fun activities for kids, they’ll have raffles and half-time noodle races.

First game is Cape Fear Roller Girls vs.

Carolina Roller Girls, followed by CFG Black Harrts vs Spartanburg Deadly Dolls.

Portion of the proceeds benefit The Carousel Center. Tickets at the door: adults $12, children ages 6-12 are $5, and kids under 6 get in free.

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

Photo by Zachery Wickes

M

MUSIC>>

Photo by by Mel Litchfield

A

Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com

Assistant Editor:

Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com

Art Director/Office Manager:

Susie Riddle // ads@encorepub.com

PG. 10

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

<<ART

PG. 14

Chelsea Lea (left) keeps calm and composed while sparks fly in her studio.

The artist talks plasma cutting with James McCrea prior to the opening of ‘Of Land and Sea,’ featuring her latest metalwork, at Flytrap Brewing on July 11.

Photo by Ian Leatherwood

C

COMEDY>> When the going gets tough, the tough get funny. Comedian Steve Hofstetter has made a living taking down hecklers and he’s heading to Juggling Gypsy this week for a run of his politically incorrect humor.

Photo by Mark Feocco

Interns: Mel Beasley SALES>

General Manager:

John Hitt // john@encorepub.com

Advertising:

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

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

PG. 21

INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • News of the Weird, pg. 8 Music, pgs. 10-13 • Art, pgs. 14-18 • Theatre, pgs. 19-21 • Film, pg. 23 • Dining, pgs. 24-31 Extra, pgs. 34-36 • Fact or Fiction, pg. 38 • Crossword, pg. 41 • Calendar, pgs. 40-53 2 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

EDITORIAL>

Editor-in-Chief:

Stray Local expand upon their sound and instrumentation in ‘Passenger,’ as well as pick up additional players for their album release party this weekend at downtown’s Bourgie Nights.

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

W edneSday , J uly 25 â&#x20AC;¢ 7:30 pm CapeFearStage.com 910.362.7999 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 3

NEWS>>LIVE LOCAL

LIVE LOCAL, LIVE SMALL:

A stroll down Memory Lane Comics and its constant evolution ily, I live a minute away from the shop, so I zipped down real fast to see—and, yeah, a chunk fell off of the building.” Jake shakes his head, and adds how grateful he is it happened in the wee hours of the night and no one was hurt.

BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

Anyone who has tried to drive through the 200 block of Princess in the last few months has probably noticed Memory Lane Comics is covered in scaffolding.

Jake says the repair work to the building had been planned for quite some time; however, when the building started shedding pieces, it became an emergency.

“We immediately got going,” he tells.

“Then another piece cracks. That’s when the city really got involved and things went into actual emergency mode.”

“So what’s going on exactly?” I ask Jake.

“It’s literally the façade. The masonry on the front of the building was too heavy, the way it was attached to it, in order to stay put. I don’t know what finally pushed it over the edge. The fear was if the covering were to actually come off, and it was attached to the roof, that it would take the roof.”

He shakes his head again and recounts the events: “It took a day for them to walk in, cut holes in every floor, and deem the building entirely structurally safe. But we are still dealing with the façade on the outside.”

For five days Memory Lanes had to close; they couldn’t even enter the building. “That was the worst part,” Jake says. It affected their online sales, too, since they couldn’t get in to collect inventory.

“We’re in the heat of tourist traffic,” Jake continues. “That’s exactly what we’re paying downtown rent for.”

COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER: Memory Lane Comics is going through a building refit on Second and Princess streets in downtown Wilmington but is open for business; just follow the signs as printed from their Princess Street neighbor, Brand Engine. Photo by Gwenyfar Rohler

I

t is a silent horror that stalks the night.

While you sleep, it spreads and intensifies. Just when it will strike is unpredictable. Catastrophic building failure—a business owner’s nightmare.

“I got a call from Eric [Walker,]” Jake

Motsinger recounts. “He said a chunk of the building had fallen off.”

Jake Motsinger and his brother, Ben, are partners in Memory Lane Comics, located on the corner of Second and Princess streets. Currently, they are grappling with

4 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

catastrophic building failure.

“Eric manages all our online stuff and he’s a massive piece of our puzzle,” Jake tells. But when Eric called with the news, “I didn’t even understand—I couldn’t wrap my head around what he was saying. Luck-

That rent doesn’t go away just because a business can’t access the building. Neither do utility bills, payroll and inventory that ships weekly; it piles up quickly and when there is no opportunity to generate cash flow to pay the bills, it is terrifying.

“That’s thousands every week,” Jake says, “and I’m not getting anything coming back in from it. That was very difficult.”

With the help of a few friends, miracles can happen. The entire downtown block of Princess began offering help, even space to keep the everyday work flowing. “I was still going to work everyday,” Jake says, “sitting at Bespoke [Coffee Shop across

the street], answering emails, and talking to people and trying to let people know updates as I heard them. But I’m hearing things from a project manager, a construction crew and a landlord.”

In the midst of it all, they opened up the side door on Second Street for customers to use so they could get Memory Lane functioning again. With a few sticky tabs with “Comics” written on it, customers could find them again.

“Justin from Brand Engine just printed us up free signs,” Jake updates. “It is full-on support. People are offering up whatever they can to make sure we stay open. Downtown Wilmington is such a community.”

Though Jake is surprised by the support, I, a downtown business owner as well, am not. When the news first broke of Memory Lane, I turned to Jock and said, “We need to ask Jake what we can do. If anyone understands catastrophic building failure, it is us.”

The original owner, Henry Gibbs, sold it to Adam Burns. Jake pestered Burns to hire him all through high school. Finally, he asked at the right time, and Jake was hired while pursuing his undergrad degree at UNCW. “I had been going since I was like 6,” Jake notes. “Then he offered me the job and I wanted to be—a professional athlete, professional musician, or own a comicbook store.”

It was at least one dream come true.

Going to school, working in a comic book store, playing guitar? What could be better for a 20-year-old guy?

“I worked for him for four years ‘til 2009; the economy was in a bad spot. I had given him my notice because I was about to be done with school,” Jake recalls. Burns was thinking of giving up the store. Jake had become a big piece of the operation, so if he left, Burns wasn’t sure he wanted

to continue.

the place over or close shop.”

“I was like, ‘Well, if you’re going to stop, I don’t mind keeping this going if I can run the store,’” Jake recalls.

But the Motsinger brothers don’t give up easily—nor do they shy away from hard work. They kept looking for the next location, and chipped away at icebergs looming on the horizon, determined they could make it succeed.

“I ran it for a couple of years, thinking with the arrogance of me just taking over and enthusiasm, I could turn things around in a heartbeat. The economy was just as unkind to me as it was to him,” Jake admits.

A couple years in, Jake’s brother, Ben, started helping at the shop. In fact, he alleviated a lot of stress.

“He started making my life so much easier—we worked out a deal for him to come on and be half owner,” Jake notes.

Meanwhile, both brothers were still working other jobs to make ends meet and keep the shop afloat. They weathered setbacks and disappointments, including losing a prime location on College Road to move into when the location they were in on Oleander got sold. They needed to vacate quickly.

“I ended up on plan F: I moved to a little spot on Market and I didn’t even have a sign for three years,” Jake remembers.

It was virtually unfindable, behind a pillar, like Wilmington’s secret comic-book store.

“I was in such a position, it was either take

“I searched forever to find a new spot,” he tells. “I was asking everybody I knew.

Then one day on Craigslist, I saw Second and Princess—set up a meeting with them and I was floored at how perfectly it fit everything I wanted out of my real estate.” Jake recalls. “And then it fell down.”

In a way Memory Lane Comics is a comic book story: as a tight team of youthful, determined young believers, they have fought and overcome obstacles that would have felled others. Right now, they need support more than ever.

Behind the door on Second Street, is the discovery of what makes Memory Lane much more than just a comic-book store.

! s l a de .com

In 2010 the bookstore’s location of 26 years got condemned and covered in scaffolding for similar but not identical reasons.

We had to move. The outpouring of support from our colleagues downtown, customers, friends, neighbors, and family are the reason we re-opened and are still here today.

Though their super-cool downtown location is new to them, Memory Lane is not new to the Wilmington area. It has been around for over 30 years. “But you haven’t had it that long,” I say to Jake, who appears to be about my vintage. “No, the store opened up in June of ‘83. It predates me.

It’s 35 and I’m 31.”

encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 5

join in the fun year-round!

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6 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Lower Cape Fear

SUMMER CAMPS Half-day camps available. Space is limited!

Register online, fsow.org, or call 910-792-1811.

Pine Grove Campus: 207 Pine Grove Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 Peiffer Campus: 350 Peiffer Avenue, Wilmington, NC 28409 Rainbow Camp: 2-3 year old campers - Plan to get messy and wet, so bring your bathing suit!

Exploring Spanish: 3-5 year old campers - All ability levels are welcome.

Storybook Summer: Kindergarten-2nd grade - Adventures through literature.

Big Messy Art: 3rd-8th grade campers - Tie-dye, splatter paint, paper mache and more.

Coding: 2nd-7th grade campers - Introduction to basic coding concepts and logic used in programming.

Fairy Tales Past, Present & Future: 3rd-5th grade campers - Reading, writing and technology while delving into fairy tales!

June 18-22

Animal Lovers: 3 & 4 year old campers - Art, literacy and activities all centered around our fury friends.

Centered Science: 3-4 year old campers - Yoga & science experiments.

Buggin’ Out: Kindergarten-2nd grade campers - Immerse in insect inspired learning & fun.

Coding: 2nd-7th grade campers - Introduction to basic coding concepts and logic used in programming.

LEGO® Robotics: 2nd-8th grade campers - Engineering and problem solving are awesome!

Fizz, Foam, Pop: 3rd-8th grade campers - Hands-on, messy experiments while problem-solving and team-building.

Mud & Fire Pottery: 3rd-8th grade campers - Clay exploration & imagination.

June 25-29

Mindfulness Art: 3-4 year old campers - Yoga & art activities center on peace.

Happy Campers: Kindergarten-2nd grade campers - Experience nature & outdoor play in a whole new way!

Coding: 2nd-7th grade campers - Introduction to basic coding concepts and logic used in every programming language.

LEGO® Robotics: 2nd-8th grade campers - Engineering and problem solving are awesome!

Jewelry Making: 3rd-8th grade campers - Design & learn how to make your own, unique pieces.

July 16-20

July 9-13

Montessori Nature Camp: 3-4 year old campers - Guided, independent learning about the world around us.

Road Trip Around the World: Kindergarten-2nd grade campers - Climb aboard the magic school bus and explore states and countries.

Caribbean Culture Camp: 3rd-5th grade campers - Explore the culture & traditions of various countries. ¡Vámonos al Caribe!

Welcome to the Jungle: 2-3 year old campers - Grab your binoculars and let’s go!

Summer Time Fun: 3-4 year old campers - Favorites like bubbles, water play & sidewalk chalk.

Flying Fingers: Kindergarten-2nd grade campers - Explore Deaf Culture while learning American Sign Language.

Fairy Tales Past, Present & Future: 3rd-5th grade campers - Reading, writing and technology while delving into fairy tales.

Art Outdoors: 3rd-8th grade campers - Using nature as the inspiration.

July 30-August 3

July 23-27

Montessori Nature Camp: 3-4 year old campers - Guided, independent learning about the world around us.

Flying Fingers: Kindergarten-2nd grade campers - Explore Deaf Culture while learning American Sign Language.

Brick by Brick: Kindergarten-5th grade campers - All things LEGO®!

Science Olympiad: 4th-6th grade campers - 321 Blast Off, Duct Tape Challenge and more!

encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 7

bile app ordering option does offer a Quarter Pounder without cheese, he notes in-store customers have no such choice. [Miami Herald, 5/24/2018]

IRONY

WAIT, WHAT? Visitors to Merlion Park in Singapore on June 8 were startled to see Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump enjoying a casual walkabout, hand-in-hand. On closer inspection, however, they would have seen the two men were Howard X, a Kim impersonator, and Dennis Alan, a Trump impersonator, who traveled to Singapore in advance of the June 12 summit meeting between the two real leaders. Janette Warokka of Indonesia was fooled: “It’s so shocking for me. I don’t know why those two famous guys come here,” she told the Associated Press. Airport officials were less amused when Kim’s doppelganger, whose real name is Lee Howard Ho Wun, arrived at Changi Airport. Wun said police officers searched his bags and detained him for two hours before releasing him with stern warnings to stay away from the summit. Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Author-

ity said Wun was interviewed for about 45 minutes. [AP via ABC News, 6/8/2018]

THE LITIGIOUS SOCIETY If you’ve ordered a Quarter Pounder recently and specified “no cheese,” you may be interested in a $5 million class-action lawsuit brought against McDonald’s on May 8 by Cynthia Kissner of Broward County, Florida, and Leonard Werner of Miami-Dade. According to the Miami Herald, the two are angry that they’ve been paying for cheese even though they ordered their sandwiches without it. The lawsuit contends “customers ... continue to be overcharged for these products, by being forced to pay for two slices of cheese, which they do not want, order or receive.”

Also, Kissner and Werner “have suffered injury as a result of their purchases because they were overcharged” and “McDonald’s is being unjustly enriched by these practices.”

While attorney Andrew Lavin admits the mo-

Charlotte Fox, 61, an accomplished mountain climber who summited Mount Everest in 1996, met an unlikely death May 24 when she fell down the hardwood stairs at her home in Telluride, Colorado. Fox was part of the infamous 1996 Mount Everest expedition chronicled in “Into Thin Air” by Jon Krakauer, when eight climbers died. Friends called her fall “shocking,” according to The Aspen Times. Climbing partner Andrea Cutter said of the news, “It made me think, ‘Jeez, it’s just so wrong.’” San Miguel County Coroner Emil YOU THINK YOUR JOB IS BAD? Sante said officials “have no reason to believe Car salesman Brett Bland in League City, that it was suspicious at all.” [Aspen Times, Texas, finally had enough and filed a law5/29/2018] suit in May against his employer, AutoNation Acura Gulf Freeway, and Jeremy Pratt, a coARMED AND CLUMSY worker. Pratt, the suit alleges, engaged in Things got wild on June 2 at Mile High “constant taunting ... making extremely crass, Spirits and Distillery in Denver when an un- vulgar and rude comments” and “reinforced named off-duty FBI agent accidentally shot dominance over his subordinates by regularly patron Tom Reddington, 24, in the lower leg. entering their enclosed offices, intentionally According to the Denver Post, the agent was passing gas and then laughing,” as well as dancing and did a backflip, which caused his “pinching and touching his male subordinates’ firearm to come out of its holster and fall to nipples.” KPRC-TV reported Pratt was fired the floor. When he bent to pick up the gun, it after sending a text to everyone at the dealerdischarged. “I heard a loud bang,” Redding- ship alleging Bland was a sex offender (which ton said, “and I thought some idiot set off a he is not). After the firing, however, Bland’s firecracker. All of a sudden, from the knee lawsuit alleges, AutoNation allowed Pratt to down became completely red, and that’s “loiter at the dealership” and continue harasswhen it clicked in my head, ‘Oh, I’ve been ing employees, and Bland was threatened shot.’” A man at the bar applied a tourniquet with termination if he didn’t sell eight vehicles to Reddington’s leg. The FBI agent was taken a month. Bland seeks damages and court to Denver police headquarters and released costs. [KPRC, 5/30/2018] to an FBI supervisor. Mile High Spirits has promised “complimentary drinks forever” to Reddington. [Denver Post, 6/7/2018]

SWEET REVENGE In a bid to unseat his boss, Bon Homme County, South Dakota, Deputy Sheriff Mark Maggs thrashed Sheriff Lenny Gramkow in the June 5 Republican primary by a vote of 878 to 331. So Sheriff Gramkow didn’t waste any time: Less than a minute after the polls closed, he fired Maggs, the Sioux Falls Argus Leader reported. “As of this moment you are no longer an employee of Bon Homme County,” Maggs’ termination notice read. Maggs, a 31-year-old father of four, will not become sheriff until January, but he is confident the county commission “will stand with my family ... and insure that my family will not be left hanging without an income or insurance,” Maggs said. “We’re going to be fine.” [Argus Leader, 6/8/2018]

JUST SAY NO On June 2, as two Jackson County, Oregon, sheriff’s deputies waited for a tow truck to remove a 2003 Toyota Camry from the side of a road, 23-year-old Anthony J. Clark, of

8 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Grants Pass, walked up to the car and told the deputies he was going to steal it. He then got into the car and drove off, leading officers on a 40-mile chase through Ashland, Talent and Phoenix, Oregon, crashing into fences and driving the wrong way on several roads.

When officers finally stopped the car, The Oregonian reported, Clark ran into a mobile home park, where he was arrested trying to steal another car. The deputies reported Clark admitted taking LSD and said he thought he was inside a real-life version of the “Grand Theft Auto” video game. Among other charges, Clark was accused of driving under the influence of intoxicants and second-degree criminal mischief. [The Oregonian, 6/4/2018]

EWWWWWWW! In Beihai, South China, an unnamed 51-year-old man had been experiencing nonstop nosebleeds for 10 days when his wife told him she saw something “peek” out of his nose. In June, Metro News reported, the man went to Beihai People’s Hospital, where Dr. Liu Xiongguang removed a slithery, severalinches-long leech from his nostril as a nurse filmed the procedure. The doctor said the leech might have entered the patient’s nose as he swam in a river. [Metro News, 6/8/2018] In a gross twist on road rage, Henry George Weaver, 69, of New Tripoli, Pennsylvania, ended an argument with another man June 8 by defecating on him. According to Lehigh Valley Live, Pennsylvania state police reported that “the accused and the victim got into a road-rage argument, leading the accused to defecate on the victim,” but they did not disclose what started the argument. Weaver was charged with harassment. [Lehigh Valley Live, 6/10/2018]

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ARTS>>MUSIC

ELEVATED EVOLUTION:

Stray Local release new EP ‘Passenger’ at Bourgie Nights on Friday the 13th BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

“I

honestly believe five out of the six songs on this EP will make listeners go, ‘Wow, this is Stray Local?’” onethird of the trio, Hannah Lomas, observes of their upcoming release, “Passenger.” With the exception of the gently finger-picked “Watch it Grow” (an older acoustic tune), Stray Local fans hardly will recognize the band as they flex musical muscles on their latest project.

“And you know what? We’re OK with that!”

Lomas adds.

Joined by Lomas’ fiancé, Jamie Rowen (guitar, banjo), and Jessica Landes (fiddle)— Lomas typically plays mandolin and keyboard—for their album-release party at Bourgie Nights on Friday, July 13, Stray Local will perform as a six-piece: Hannah Stomski will sit in on keys, Jen Mueske will be on various Check out gift cert half-priced ifi encore cates on DEALS .com!

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percussion, and Ross Page will play drums.

Local musicians Sean Thomas Gerard and Justin Lacy will open.

While “Passenger” CDs will be for sale at the party, as well as at Gravity Records and during any live show thereafter, the album will be available on iTunes and various streaming services also on Friday.

The album cover alone reflects an edgier, “louder” Stray Local; a sunset-lit backdrop of clouds in the sky, pierced by a beam layered in textures and colors. “My wonderful and talented older sister, Kayce Lomas, is a badass graphic designer and created the artwork,” Lomas boasts.

Beaming with texture and color is one way to describe the sounds in “Passenger,” too. The band takes a departure from strict bluegrass and Americana and moves toward an indie sound, with rock, pop and folk elements. No longer revolving around a rhythmic acoustic guitar like previous albums, it’s traditional Stray Local with a twist.

“Although acoustic guitar, violin, banjo, and mandolin can be heard throughout the six-song EP, they play a different role,” Lomas clarifies. “Violin and viola tracks are orchestrated to create atmospheric swells and rich chordal structures rather than old-dime fiddle melodies from albums past. Plucked violin melodies are layered with vocals to create an entirely new timbre. A finger-picked banjo appears in combination with an identical electric guitar melody or alone with a traditional pattern but distorted, like in the final track, ‘You Won’t Believe Me.’” Stray Local traditionally has played toward Lomas and Rowen’s personal strengths, styles and preferences. Nevertheless, they constantly seek out ways to improve as musicians and songwriters. “We know on many levels we are opposites,” Lomas concedes, “which is what we attribute to our strong partnership. We are very reflective and communicate well, which keeps us from getting stuck treading water.”

Stray Local’s most recent releases have been recorded live, either at their home (“Lonesome Road”) or favorite local venue, Ted’s Fun on the River (“Live at Ted’s”).

This time around they wanted to invest in a studio album to make them more competitive sonically when they pitch their music for radio, festivals or higher-profile shows.

Thus they needed access to better equipment, quality microphones, and a talented

10 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

COLORFUL TEXTURES: Stray Local celebrate a new EP at Bourgie Nights. Photo by Mel Litchfield

mixing engineer.

Enter: Lee Hester of Logan Manor Studio.

The band knew of Hester through a friend and his work with Beta Radio. They had faith he could help elevate and evolve their sound.

“Lee was there to make suggestions and record in a manner that would have never occurred to us,” Lomas says. “As a vocalist himself, Lee had interesting suggestions for building a powerful sound, which is evident throughout the EP.” Heavy on harmonies, Lomas likes the fact she was able to access multiple recordings of lead vocals, as opposed to one-shot cuts from live albums. It allowed her to blend layers (sometimes close to the mic, sometimes far away) to create new depth.

“Harmonies were treated similarly and can be heard and felt as vocals envelop an entire track,” she explains. “Lee’s expertise in mixing helped to finish ‘Escape’ in a really special way, which can be heard in his sampling of a later vocal track, which was manipulated and placed in the instrumental intro.”

Stray Local brought in the catchy electricguitar riffs, keyboard and hard-hitting drums of Christian Black, too. The songs were mostly fleshed out with Lomas on piano and Rowen’s telecaster, all evident in the title track at the beginning of the record. It was the first song Lomas and Rowen wrote since getting engaged during Christmas 2017.

love song.”

The two musicians grew fond of the song and considered “passenger” an appropriate word to represent their latest collaboration— as well as their life.“We love to travel and explore the world with our music,” she says.

“We are asking listeners to take a journey with us and be passengers as we head down this new musical path.”

The two have come to terms with the possibility that some fans may not like their detachment from acoustic guitar and sounds often categorizing them as “folk.” Yet, they felt compelled to explore creatively, authentically, and let their style evolve beyond the bounds of genre— which, in the end, isn’t a far stretch from how they’ve worked in the past.

“I think some listeners will realize, we have never been settled on one style or one genre,” Lomas iterates. “I am very proud of this new project but . . . I know ‘Passenger’ is not the resting place for Stray Local as far as style. It is a stepping stone. I wouldn’t be surprised if next year we release another album that again has people asking, [‘This is Stray Local?’]”

DETAILS:

Stray Local Album Release Show

Openers: Sean Thomas Gerard and Justin Lacy Friday, July 13, doors at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m.

Bourgie Nights • 127 Princess St. “‘Passenger’ was written during the snow Tickets: $10 adv.; $15 at the door day we had in January,” she says, “when www.straylocal.com roads were icy and school was canceled for several days. The song opens with a wintry melancholy vibe, before outing itself as a

A PREVIEW OF EVENTS ACROSS TOWN THIS WEEK

THE SOUNDBOARD

40 BEERS ON TAP

#TAPTUESDAY...THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK: $3 SELECT PINTS & TEAM TRIVIA Outdoor Concert Series

THURSDAY, JULY 12 MYKEL BARBEE FRIDAY, JULY 13 ACCESS 29 SATURDAY, JULY 14 DAVE’S NOT HOME 7324 Market Street • 910-821-8185 www.ogdentaproom.com OPEN 7 DAYS AWEEK

FEROCIOUS BLUES: Austin-based blues guitarist and ‘sorcerer of tone’ Chris Duerte will deliver a strong dose of pyrotechnic, jazzy tunes on July 15 at The Rusty Nail at 6 p.m. Photo by Gene Schilling

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 Open Mic Night (6pm; Free)

—Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 Oleander Dr.

Poolside Live Music (6:30pm; Free; Variety) —Blockade Runner, 275 Waynick Blvd.

Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

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

James Jarvis (7pm; Free; Jazz)

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

The Jillettes (7pm; $3; Beach Music)

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

Robert Lighthouse (7pm; $5; Blues) —Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

Mean Queen (8pm; Free; Hard Rock)

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

Danny Korzelius (8pm; Free; Pop, Piano) —Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

Al DiMarco (7pm; Free; Accordion, Piano) —Platypus & Gnome, 9 S. Front St.

Moontype ‘n Brewtal (10pm; Free; Funk) —Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.

30 Second Rocks (8pm; Free; Trivia)

—Kickback Jack’s, 418 S. College Rd.

THURSDAY, JULY 12

Cardio Hip-Hop (5:45pm; $8-$12; Dance)

—Dance Element, 7211 Ogden Business Ln. #205; 910-685-3787

Perry Smith (6pm; Free; Folk)

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

Justin Cody Fox (6:30pm; Free; Singer) —CB Boardwalk, 100 Cape Fear Blvd.

Jazz at the Mansion (6:30pm; $10-$18) —Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St.

The Pump Class (6:30pm; $10; Dance)

—Stilletto Fit Studio, 6620 Gordon Rd. Suite K

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

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

Cruise w/ Tyler McKaig (7pm; $27; Soul)

—Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

www.RuckerJohns.com VISIT WWW.RUCKERJOHNS.COM FOR FRIDAY MONDAY DAILY SPECIALS, MUSIC & EVENTS Cosmopolitan $4 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 $5 Pizzas Blue Pool Martini $6 Bottles $3 TUESDAY TUESDAYSATURDAY 1/2 Off SelectLIVE Bottles of Wine IN THE Peach BAR Tea Shiner $6 JAzz Absolut Dream $5 22oz Deschutes Half Price Bottles of Wine Black Butte $ 50$5 Porter NC CraftAbsolut Bottles $3 2 Dream $5 • Pacifico 22oz Weeping Willow Wit WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY Beer $5 1/2 Off Nachos after 5pm in bar andMiller patio Light areas Pints $150 Coronoa/ SUNDAY $ 50 Domestic Pints $1.50Lite All 2 $6 after 5pm Corona Bottles Flat Breads $ in bar and patio Corona/Corona Lt. $2.50 Margaritas/Peach Margaritas 4 areas Bloddy Mary $4 16oz Hi WireAmerican Lager Draft $4 THURSDAY Domestic Pints $1.50 Margaritas on the Rocks $4.50 $ Appletinis $4, RJ’s Painkiller 5 $5 White Russians THURSDAY

Red Stripe Bottles $250

Andrew Kasab (7pm; $3; Acoustic)

—Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-2313379

Steve Hofstetter (7pm; $20; Comedy)

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St; 910-7632223

Jackson Canady Duo (7:30pm; Free; Country) —Pour Taproom, 201 N Front St.

Alexis Raeana & Kyng Bea (8pm; Free; Jazz) —Tails Piano Bar, 115 South Front St.

Trivia with Ed (8pm; Free)

—The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St.

Fireworks by the Sea (8:45 pm; Free)

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

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

5564 Carolina Beach Road, (910) 452-1212

—CB Boardwalk, 100 Cape Fear Blvd.

Mystic Circus (9pm; $5; Comedy)

LIVE MUSIC

—Calico Room, 107 S Front St.

July 12th: Jason Jackson and Randall Canady, 8-11pm

Little Stranger (9pm; $10-$12; Hip-Hop) —ReelCafe, 100 S. Front St.

July 13th: CC Martin, 9pm-12am

FRIDAY, JULY 13

July 14th: Rocky Pleasant Music, 9pm-12am

Offering a variety of craft beer, ciders and wine

Gene Gregory (6pm; Free; Americana) —The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

HOW TO SUBMIT A LISTING: All Soundboard listings must be entered onto our online calendar, powered by SpinGo, each Wednesday, by 5 p.m., for consideration in the following week’s entertainment calendar. All online listings generate the print listings, as well as encore’s new app, encore Go. Venues are responsible for notifying encore of any changes, removals or additions to their weekly schedules. encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 11

THURSDAY

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

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY

SUNDAY

Departure - Journey Tribute (6:30pm; Free)

Reggae Festivus (7pm; Free)

—Riverfront Park, 5 N. Water St.

Poolside Live Music (6:30pm; Free; Variety) —Blockade Runner, 275 Waynick Blvd.

Spank (6:30pm; Free; Hard Rock)

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Chris Duarte Group (6pm; $10; Rock, Blues)

—Gravity Records, 612 Castle St.

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

Kevin Earl/Exploding Math Lab (6pm; $5; Rock)

—Fort Fisher Rec. Area, 1000 Loggerhead Rd.

34 Steps (7pm; Free; Rock) $3.75 Hay Bale Ale

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

Sara Schaefer (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy)

—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St. $3.50 Pint of the Day $4 Fire Ball

$3.75 Sweetwaters $4.50 Absolute Lemonade

$5 Mimosas $5 Car Bombs

$3.75 Sweet Josie $4 Margaritas

—CB Boardwalk, 100 Cape Fear Blvd.

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

Cruise w/ Joe Barney (7pm; $27; Acoustic) —Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

Port City Trio (7pm; $3; Jazz)

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

James Jarvis (8pm; Free; Jazz)

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

The Jim Ferris Trio (8pm; Free; Jazz) —Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

CC Martin (9pm; Free; Country)

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

• Bar games • Free popcorn machine

Ch eers!

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

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

__________________________________________

KARAOKE

w/DJ Damo, 9PM

2 KILLIANS • $400 MAGNERS

$ 50

Thursday ________________________________________

TRIVIA

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

Friday & Saturday __________________________

LIVE MUSIC 2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS

$ 00

Sunday ___________________________________________

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

—Pour Taproom, 201 N. Front St.

Thunderlip & Demon Eye (9pm; Free; Rock)

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

Zak Kee & the 843’s (10pm; Free; Rockabilly) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

Ed Stephenson (6pm; Free; Spanish Flemenco) —Platypus & Gnome, 9 S. Front St.

SATURDAY, JULY 14 Tantrum! (8pm; Free; Rock)

—Lazy Pirate, 701 N. Lake Pk Blvd; 910-7428055

Jay Killman (3pm; Free; Jazz, Folk)

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

Burlesque (3pm; $10-$15; Drama, Comedy)

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

Kim Dicso (6pm; Free; Folk)

—The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

G. Love & Special Sauce (Hip-Hop) (6pm; $26-$30)

—Greenfield Lake, 1941 Amphitheater Dr.

FEATURE YOUR LIVE MUSIC, FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS (as little as $29 a week!)

Call 791-0688 Deadline every Thurs., noon!

Sara Schaefer (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy)

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

Cruise w/ Monica Jane (7pm; $27; Singer)

—Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

End of the Line (7pm; $3; Bluegrass)

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

The Girls & Zodiac Panthers (7pm; $5; Punk) —Gravity Records, 612 Castle St.

Abstractionist (7pm; $10; Metal)

—The Calico Room, 115 N 2nd St.

Rocky Pleasant (7:30pm; Free; Country) —Pour Taproom, 201 N. Front St.

Lemetrius & Lee (9pm; Free; Jazz) —Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

SUNDAY, JULY 15

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

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

12 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

—The Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

—Lazy Pirate, 701 N. Lake Pk Blvd; 910-7428055

Open Mic Night (7pm; $3)

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

Sunday School Underground (8pm; Free)

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

MONDAY, JULY 16

The Pump Class (6:30pm; $10; Dance)

—Stilletto Fit Studio, 6620 Gordon Rd Suite K

Bachata Mondays (7pm; $12; Dance)

—Dsantos Dance, 4569 Technology Dr. Unit 2

Jazz Workshop (7:30pm; $6)

—UNCW, 601 S. College Rd.

Open Mic w/ James Jones (8pm; Free)

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

TUESDAY, JULY 17

Family Night (6:30pm; Free)

—CB Boardwalk, 100 Cape Fear Blvd.

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

—Local’s Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd.

Eric Schwartz (7pm; $15; Comedy)

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

The Drum Circle with Ron (7:30pm; Free)

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

Pentley Holmes (3pm; Free; Soul)

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

Karaoke w/ DJ Damo (9pm; Free) —The Harp,1423 S. 3rd St.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 Open Mic Night (6pm; Free)

—Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 Oleander Dr.

Poolside Live Music (6:30pm; Free; Variety) —Blockade Runner, 275 Waynick Blvd.

Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)

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

James Jarvis (7pm; Free; Jazz)

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

Susan Savia (7pm; $3; Folk)

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

From Worlds Alike (7pm; Free; Rock, Jazz)

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

Audrey Ochoa (7:30pm; $20; Jazz) —UNCW, 601 S. College Rd.

Al DiMarco (7pm; Free; Accordion, Piano) —Platypus & Gnome, 9 S. Front St.

Lil’ Rev (8pm; $15, Ukulele Player)

—Ukelele Academy, 203 Racine Dr.

30 Second Rocks (8pm; Free; Trivia)

—Kickback Jack’s, 418 S. College Rd.

Singer/Songwriter Circle (9pm; Free) —Bottega, 723 N. 4th St.

Danny K (8pm; Free; Piano)

—Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTHEASTERN NC

SHOWSTOPPERS

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

STUPID CLOWN: He may not recognize himself in the mirror, but fans won’t mistake singer and guitarist Kurt Vile who’ll bring his lo-fi, indie rock jams to Cat’s Cradle on July 11. Courtesy photo NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE N DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 7/12: Kuinka 7/14: Water Dog Music Festival 7/15: Beres Hammond 7/18: La Santa Cecilia’s THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 7/11: Erasure 7/12: Jimmy Eat World 7/13: Indigo Girls 7/14: Toga Party 7/17: Kurt Vile MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE., DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875 7/6: The Lost Generation 7/8: Bob Schneider 7/11 DJ Windows 98 7/14: Girls Rock NC 7/17: The Get Up Kids RED HAT AMPHITHEATER 500 SOUTH MCDOWELL ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 996-8800 7/12: Arcade Fire 7/13: Coheed and Cambria 7/14: Slightly Stoopid

LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111 7/13: Little Ozzy’s Friday the 13th Bash 7/14: Control Group 7/15: AirCrash Detectives CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 7/11: Kurt Vile 7/12: Lake Street Dive (SOLD OUT) 7/13: Pierce Pettis 7/15: Come Clean w/ Up From Here THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 7/11: Bowling for Soup 7/12: Kurt Vile 7/13: Dirty Soul Revival 7/14: Jenny Lewis + The Cactus Blossoms HOUSE OF BLUES 4640 HWY. 17 S. N. MYRTLE BEACH, SC (843) 272-3000 7/11: Jimmy Eat World 7/12: Drive-By Truckers 7/13: Sister Hazel 7/14: The Summer Slaughter Tour 7/20: The Classic Rock Experience

MAY 25

JULY 20 Funky Monks

JUNE 1 Red Zeppelin

JULY 27 Breakfast Club

JUNE 8 Hey Johnny Park

AUG 3

JUNE 15

AUG 10

JUNE 22 The Core

AUG 17 Skydog

JUNE 29 20 Ride

AUG 24 Abbey Road Live

JULY 6

AUG 31 Satisfaction

JULY 13 Departure

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

encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 13

ARTS>>ART

WELDING A LEGACY:

Jeweler Chelsea Lea turns scrap metal into high art in upcoming show at Flytrap

S

BY: JAMES MCCRAE

parks fly as Chelsea Lea hunches over a piece of junk metal; she eyes the slab with an intent gaze. I can’t see her eyes behind the impossibly-dark safety glasses, which look more like a sleek pair of Oakleys than a clunky welder’s mask.

But it’s obvious she’s focused on what she’s doing with the plasma cutter.

Armed with nothing else, Lea turns what might have been a discarded roofing panel into a tiger shark. Jagged metal lines lend themselves to its teeth, and Lea’s careful cuts define flaring gills, hungry eyes and battle scars. However, the finishing touch was there from the beginning: Diagonal streaks of orange rust evoke the tiger shark’s stripes. Of course, Lea makes it all look so effortless, as a result of her years of practice, plus because it comes so naturally to her. Lea is from a line of jewelers.

“My roots in the industry began on my mother’s side of the family,” she reminisces.

“My grandmother started the jewelry department at the University of Troy Alabama, and my mother was my grandmother’s assistant in the classroom while she was teaching. My mother later went on to take classes at Penland School of Crafts here in North Carolina.

It was in 1990 she opened Athena Jewelers in Athens, Georgia.”

Lea and her brother were reared among shelves of finely crafted jewelry. They were soaking in the culture of being an artist and thriving from it professionally as a career as mere toddlers. So, when it came time to map out her career after high school, Lea pursued jewelry design. At the University of Georgia, once again Lea found herself ingratiated in the life of a studio artist. In 2012 she was hired as the studio assistant for

the brewery’s history of supporting local environmental groups, ranging from Cape Fear River Watch to the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden.

UGA’s overseas program in Cortona, Italy. It led her to Venice, wherein the city’s famous carnival masks and Baroque costumes inspired Lea. Returning stateside, she continued her training at the prestigious Gemological Institute of America in Carlsbad, California, before working as a platinum caster in Portland, Oregon. However, her artistic roots were calling her back to North Carolina to study jewelry design at the same school where her mother honed her skills.

“Right away I knew I wanted to be involved in the space,” she exclaims, “due to its location in a very historic part of town [in the Brooklyn Arts District], and the amazing job they did restoring [Flytrap]. Not to mention I was enamored with the large wall space to display artists’ work.”

“Arriving at Penland on my 28th birthday felt very surreal,” she remembers, “because of my family’s history of teaching and taking classes there. It was a birthday wish come true I suppose.”

After Penland, Lea moved eastward and settled in the Cape Fear area. Today she keeps busy as a bench jeweler and teaching jewelry design at Brunswick Community College. She also works with Spectrum Fine Jewelry.

Lea’s extensive training in jewelry design lends itself exceptionally well to her new metal sculpture on display at Flytrap Brewery. She works in a reductive approach based on strategically cutting away small pieces of large sheets of metal to suggest new imagery. One such example sees Lea stripping away squirming contour lines from a steel barrel’s lid; it forms an octopus in negative space. Compared to her early work influenced by Venetian masks, Lea’s oceanic themes may seem like a departure. Yet, it’s part of her method—being inspired from her surroundings.

“Whether it is a simple kayak around Greenfield Lake or a camping trip at Carolina Beach State Park, I find when I go into the wild I am greatly influenced by the textures, sounds, smells and sights,” she elaborates.

“The exotic fauna that is the Cape Fear region continues to impress and inspire. Being able to connect with a subject is not often easily found; however, I find my subject is just outside my door.”

Lea takes the concept a step further by working with unwanted material destined for the trash bin. Rather than allowing it to crumble and rust in a landfill or float in an ocean, Lea upcycles and recycles to do her part in keeping the environment healthy and showing reverence to the source of inspiration.

14 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

PELICAN: Chelsea Lea shows off a plasma-cut pelican made from recycled metal. Courtesy photo

“Hopefully, this work will be seen as a way to preserve our incredible region,” she details. “The birds, fish and other wildlife here cannot protect themselves, and with a growing city, it is important for artists like myself to make work about these incredible creatures.”

Incredible creatures dominate Lea’s metal sculpture. Her scrap-metal creations become expressionistic fish, realistic butterflies, swirling sea-fronds, and jovial mermaids. These pieces can work equally well as indoor wall-hangings or outdoor lawn art, with one of her specialties being large burnbarrels designed to cast intriguing patterns when lit. One especially dramatic display sees Lea transform an old oil barrel into a coastal landscape complete with palm trees that wrap around the entire barrel—perfect for a summer night bonfire.

Lea’s arrival in Wilmington was something of divine providence. Just as she and her husband arrived to Wilmington, Flytrap Brewery opened its doors on 3rd Street and shortly established itself. It also began hosting art shows to help fill the brewery walls.

Lea’s work is especially fitting considering

Although she is no stranger to gallery representation—having shown her work at Portland’s nowdefunct Breeze Block Gallery and as a finalist in NICHE Magazine’s 2014 Philadelphia gathering—Lea appreciates gallery spaces that exist just outside usual expectations.

The casual environment of breweries and bars can be naturally conducive to art openings, and the potential for creative scenes to flourish in Wilmington increases with the appearance of each new brewery.

But Lea transitions easily from conventional and back, and as such she sees appeal for any kind of venue.

“Unconventional spaces are naturally appealing to artists,” Lea proclaims. “I can see more artists showing their work in ‘unconventional spaces’ like breweries because they are great places to host events, and people are always there, hanging out. The challenges of owning a gallery that functions strictly as such can be very difficult when paying the bills. However, showing gallery-quality work in places that people are coming to, despite the artwork, can be very lucrative for the artist and owner of the venue.”

Lea’s new work will be unveiled in an opening reception on July 11. Food will be available from Catch the Food Truck, and live music will be played by Garrett Doughton.

The show will be on display until August 31.

DETAILS:

Of Land and Sea

The metalwork of Chelsea Lea Flytrap Brewing • 319 Walnut St. July 11, 5-8 p.m. www.chelsealeametals.com

WHAT’S HANGING AROUND THE PORT CITY

GALLERYGUIDE ARTEXPOSURE!

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

One-man show “Escape into Plein Air” features Robert Rigsby. The show will highlight oil paintings from Rob’s 6 month trip visiting all fifty national parks.

Rob also wrote a book about his journey and it is available under the same name on Amazon.

ART IN BLOOM GALLERY

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

Art in Bloom Gallery is in a renovated 19th-century horse stable and presents an eclectic mix of original art by emerging and established artists. Join us for our featured exhibit “Art of the Camera: A Group Photography Exhibit” through July 28. Meet the artists and enjoy refreshments and live music by pianist Myron Harmon on Friday, July 6, 6-8 pm. Art in Bloom Gallery is open until 9 pm on Fourth Friday Gallery Nights including Friday, July 27.

ART OF FINE DINING www.aibgallery.com

CHARLES JONES AFRICAN ART

porter of the Wilmington music scene and provides live music during Fourth Friday Gallery Night.

NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY

271 N. Front St. (919) 343-8997 311 Judges Rd., Unit 6-E Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm cjart@bizec.rr.com (or by appt.)

(910) 794-3060 www.newelementsgallery.com New Elements has been offering the Mon. – Fri. 10am - 12:30 pm best of regional and national fine art 1:30 pm - 4 pm Open other hours and weekends by and craft since 1985. Now on display is terraferma, featuring the work of Steve appointment Kelly and Katherine Wolf Webb. The www.cjafricanart.com show is on display through July 21.

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

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

Over 30 years experience in Tribal Arts. Our clients include many major museums.

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

“Art of Nature” photography exhibit at the Wilma W. Daniels Gallery will display the work of three artists who have chosen unique ways to show their passion for nature. The exhibit has a closing reception on Friday, July 27, 6-9pm Since this nature photography exhibit is taking place just steps away from the Cape Fear River, a portion of the sales will be donated to Cape Fear River Watch.

learn more about the artists we represent, featured exhibitions, and gallery news at newelementsgallery.com. We regularly update the work available.

EXPO 216

216 N. Front St, Wilmington, NC (910) 769-3899 Wed. – Sun., Noon – 6 PM www.expo216.com

Expo 216’s one-year expositions are theme-driven, currently addressing Death & Dying. Works by local artists, including Joan McLoughlin, Niki Hildebrand, and Janette Hopper, are on display. Exhibits, such as The History of Funeral Care and Hair Work provide an educational element. Expo 216 is a sup-

The easiest way to save money at local businesses!

! s l a e d .com

In addition to our gallery at 210 Princess Street, Art in Bloom Gallery partners with local businesses to exhibit original art in other locations. Current exhibits include: “Archival Ink Transfer Prints by Bob Bryden” and “Photography by (Joe) P. Wiegmann” at The District Kitchen and Cocktails,1001 N. 4th Street.

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

“Reflexiones de Costa a Costa (Reflections: Coast to Coast)” by Carolina Corona at Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Street through August 7, 2018.

“Waking from Dreams: Paintings by Mark Gansor” at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street through October 15, 2018.

••••• Specials ••••• ANY DAY / ANY TIME

Veterans & First Responders (Fire, EMS, Police) 10% Discount

MONDAY, TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY 3-5PM Seniors 20% Discount

MONDAY 4PM - CLOSE Children 12 & Under Eat from Kids Menu for 1/2 Price

MONDAY, TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY ALL DAY 1 Free Topping on Cheesesteaks & Chicken Cheesesteaks (Bell, Sweet, Banana or Jalapeno Pepper, Mushrooms, or Olives)

3 locations to serve you Hanover Center Monkey Junction 3501 Oleander Dr 609 Piner Rd 910-763-6466 910-332-5555

Porters Neck 8232 Market St 910-686-0070

d try the

Come an

BEST TEAK E CHE SES to g accordinaders e encore r

encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 15

ARTS>>FEATURE

ILLUMINATING LUMINA:

UNCW Office of Arts director Kristen Brogdon talks Lumina Art Festival’s second year

L

BY: SHEA CARVER

ast July Kristen Brogdon, director of UNCW’s Office of the Arts, oversaw the launch of the first annual Lumina Arts Festival. With 22 (18 ticketed and four free) events spanning over more than two weeks, 79 volunteers, 36 staff and 124 artists moved through our community, all in celebration of dance, poetry, music, visual art, theatre, and even opera. With an eye toward growing the festival much like Charleston’s Spoleto, Brogdon and the Office of the Arts staff have been diligently focused on programming and expanding in community partnerships for 2018.

“They all work so hard to make this festival look seamless,” Brogdon tells of her staff, “from the box office, to technicians backstage, to the folks making sure contracts are managed and artists are getting paid, to our incredible interns.”

2018’s festival will bring back community partners Opera Wilmington and Al-

chemical Theatre, both of whom anchor the festival, as well as the Black Arts Alliance, Wilmington Latin Dance, Cucalorus Festival, ceramist Aaron Wilcox, and Mouths of Babes theatre company filling events within.

“The process is, in a word, collaborative,” Brogdon expresses.

We spoke with Brogdon about the 2018 Lumina Arts Festival and the goals she hopes to achieve with its growth. encore (e): What’s new for 2018?

Kristin Brogdon (KB): After last year’s festival, we wanted to add a couple of things: a block-party feeling and more free events to create a participatory community feeling.

This year, on opening weekend, July 14-15, we have Hooked On Arts outdoor fair on the Kenan Lawn. There will be art vendors, food trucks, an instrument “petting zoo”—a booth where people (especially kids) get the opportunity to play different musical instruments—a sidewalk chalk competition, and art activities. We also added a series of free theater performances at the UNCW amphitheater. Our free event with Cucalorus this year will be a Virtual Reality workshop, and we’re repeating the Latin Dance Party because it was such a hit last year.

e: Was it easier or more daunting to plan the 2018 festival, after having the first under your belt?

TUES

KB: We learned a lot from last year’s festival and it provided a great blueprint for this year. The most daunting part of planning year two is wanting to live up to the success of last year, when we outpaced our attendance goal by 1,000 people.

7PM start 7/10 CAPE FEAR SPORTS HUMAN FOOSBALL & CORNHOLE League Play! Info at www.capefearsportsnc.com

WED

Vittles Food Truck, 6-9pm

7/11 WINE AT WATERLINE

THE SWEET SOUNDS OF TK’S GUITARS

THURS

Cheese Smith Food Truck, 6-8pm

6-8PM 7-9PM

7/12 ILM MAKERS and 5-9PM GROWERS MARKET

BLUEGRASS w/BIG AL HALL & FRIENDS

FRI

7/13 JIVE MOTHER MARY

8-10PM

SAT

6-8PM

7/14 INTO THE FOG

8-10PM

SUN

Port City Que BBQ Food Truck, 5-8pm

7/8 MORNING YOGA WITH JESS

11AM-12NOON 4-6PM

Catch. The Food Truck, 6-9pm

A&M’s Red Food Truck, 6-9pm

JUSTIN CODY FOX DUO A&M’s Red Food Truck, 3-6pm

721 Surry Street Wilmington waterlinebrewing.com

e: What’s your goal for 2018?

KB: Our attendance goal for this year is 4,500 people. Compared to last year, we had just over 3,500. Both numbers include estimated audiences for free events.

e: What did you guys keep in mind when programming?

KB: We look to Opera Wilmington and Alchemical to set the tone for the festival, and then we complement their programming.

It’s important for Lumina Festival to be inclusive artistically and culturally, so we make sure to have film and poetry and dance, featuring artists from a variety of cultural backgrounds. We’re also firmly rooted in supporting artists and art forms of this region.

e: Can you elaborate; is there a theme you’re following this year?

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

Wine & cider are available.

16 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

KB: The programs for the Opera Wilmington orchestra concert and our prelude concert with Barry Salwen are both inspired by “Die Fledermaus,” with the Opera orchestra including music by Johann Strauss (Jr. and Sr.), and Dr. Salwen playing a whole program of waltzes that span several time periods and geographic regions.

We also make sure there’s music other than classical to round out the offerings. This time it includes [the Americana folk of] Rhiannon Giddens and [jazz played by] Audrey Ochoa.

In terms of theatre, we worked with Mouths of Babes (MoB) to make sure the pieces they perform complement (and don’t overlap with) Alchemical’s choice of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” (see next page, 17).

Most MoB performances will be original, new plays, and their classical play is Euripides’ “Iphigenia,” as opposed to Shakespeare. e: What smaller events do you think the community will enjoy during LAF? KB: Aaron Wilcox is a ceramist who has an incredible imagination, as well as a strongly developed craft. His show in the Cultural Arts Building Gallery will be impressive and thought-provoking.

And Audrey Ochoa—a trombonist from Canada, who will be performing as part of our summer jazz series—is young and crazy talented. She’s really starting to take off as a band leader and soloist. I can’t wait to hear her set.

e: What are your goals for 2018? What are your future plans in promoting its growth? Will it be inclusive to other venues in town as well—or is this primarily sticking to UNCW’s campus?

KB: Our goals for this year are to connect 4,500 people with regional art and artists; to inspire at least one new cross-disciplinary collaboration among Lumina artists (side note: we provide free rush tickets to all Lumina artists, in an effort to create an artistic community and encourage future collaborations); to start to grow our tourist attendance (which we measure with zip codes of ticket buyers); and to still be smiling on July 29.

I think we are starting to max out our venues on campus with this year’s schedule, so I’m open to artistic partnerships with other venues and organizations as we grow. For this year, we’re excited to light up UNCW’s campus for the second half of July!

www.encorepub.com

e: Are we closer toward generating our own Spoleto in ILM? KB: One thing that makes Spoleto incredible is the way it’s embraced by the entire community as a part of the fabric of Charleston, as well as being internationally known.

Our job, side by side with continuing to program great artists, is to weave the Lumina Festival into the fabric of Wilmington and the Cape Fear region. We’re a young festival, so this will take time. At this point, we’re making all the friends we can, and inviting everyone to the party, to make participation as accessible as possible.

e: If you could make all this happen tomorrow, what would “weav[ing] the Lumina Festival into the fabric of Wilmington and the Cape Fear region” look like?

KB: Here are some of the images in my imagination: A storefront window-decorating contest, both downtown and at Wrightsville and Carolina beaches, inspired by Lumina.

Mayor Bill Saffo talks about the Lumina Festival, whenever he mentions Azalea Festival. An annual poster competition where a local visual artist creates the Lumina Festival image each year. Businesses based in Wilmington cite the Lumina Festival in their recruiting materials to convince employees to live and work here. Performing artists from the region make it a priority to see each other’s Lumina projects each year, to find ways to collaborate on programming for the next summer. Lumina Festival is on the cover of encore magazine for the entire month of July every year. e: Anything else we should know?

KB: Rhiannon Giddens [who is writing the Broadway musical about the Wilmington Riots of 1898 and is well-known for her work with the Carolina Chocolate Drops] is headlining our concert series on July 25 at Kenan Auditorium. She’s a phenomenal singer and instrumentalist from North Carolina, and she has an interest in Wilmington and its history.

I hope her performance will open the door for us and future opportunities with her as an artist.

DETAILS:

Lumina Arts Festival

July 12-29 Featuring more than 30 events across all arts disciplines Full schedule and tickets: uncw.edu/ arts/lumina/festival.html UNCW Campus 601 S. College Rd.

ARTS>>THEATRE

THE PERFECT COMEDY:

Alchemical Theatre’s ‘Twelfth Night’ opens second annual Lumina Arts Fest on Thursday

C

BY: SHEA CARVER

hris Marino never plays it completely straight when bringing Shakespeare productions to life. In 2016 he set “Measure for Measure” in Raleigh, NC, post-election, with conservatives taking over the rule of land. In 2017 he turned “Much Ado About Nothing” into a post-Civil War drama. Now, as the Lumina Arts Festival gets underway on UNCW’s campus, his theatre company, Alchemical Productions, will bring to life the comical “Twelfth Night” or “What You Will.” The director is loosely basing the 17th-century play around Weimar culture, which saw an emergence of the arts and sciences in Weimar Republic during the interwar period WWI and Hitler’s rise to power. “I do think if people are expecting to see a Weimar play, they will most likely be disappointed,” Marino notes.

The UNCW Department of Theatre professor is only giving a nod to the period—a framework to riff off of, so to speak. The extremity of its art evokes theatricality, according to Marino. “It matches the romanticism and extremity of emotions felt by Orsino and Olivia [in ‘Twelfth Night’],” he explains.

To appropriately pull it off, Marino looks to follow the “rules” of Shakespeare to successfully transform its setting. First, Marino needed this world to support the idea of status, wherein titles like “Knight” can exist.

“So you may see some Weimar Republic touches in costumes [by Jessica Gaffney], but we’re certainly not setting it in Germany in the late ‘20s or early ‘30s,” he clarifies.

He has brought back the musical prowess of Adrian Varnam as well, who worked on “Measure for Measure” and “Much Ado.” Varnam and Marino have formed a creative hive, where original soundscapes help set the tone and add to the story arc.

They hope Shakespeare’s multi-dimensionality helps make the play immersive.

Marino passed along the timeline and setting of the show to Varnam, who than began research and listened to a lot of modern, Brechtian cabaret acts, like The Tiger Lillies and The Dresden Dolls.

Though the music is more reserved than say the dark, rollicking Dresden Dolls, it’s only as much because of being performed in a smaller space. Marino has enlisted the help of set designer May Lydy to “build areas that allow actors to get above the audience so that everyone in the space can see.” Actors will move freely in the SRO black box theatre, and in and around the audience, interacting and such.

“We’ve scattered the instrumentation among some of the cast and around the space itself,” Varnam explains. “So we’ve got actors playing guitars, pianos, an accordion, a ukulele, and lots of vocalization.”

“I think our collaboration is really great and integral to the shows I do,” Marino says. “I have real issues with canned music in theatre; it never works because you are juxtaposing organic acting against something that is inorganic and stuck in time.

Shakespeare wrote his plays for live music, it only makes sense that we follow his lead.”

However, Marino is slow to allow the production to be taken over or encumbered by concept or period. The context in which he presents “Twelfth Night” must help the audience understand character motivation.

“For example, if we fully embraced Weimar culture, the character Malvolio could be interpreted as an early brownshirt and usher in the turn toward fascism. While it could be an interesting take, it is certainly not the place Shakespeare wrote.”

Yet, the Bard did take on the fact that women did not have rights in the 16th and 17th centuries. They weren’t allowed think on their own accord or take care of themselves. They were essentially property of men—either a father or husband. Thus is the reason many women crossdress in his productions: for their own safety.

“It makes for great drama and comedy,” Marino tells. “Still, we have to be very careful when we choose frameworks for plays; they have to uphold rules within the text but not usurp the story.”

“Twelfth Night” sees as much with the character of Viola, who becomes “Cesario,” after she’s shipwrecked and separated by her twin brother, Sebastian. Viola dresses up as a male in order to work under Duke Orsino, for whom she is in love. But the duke is in love with a countess, Olivia, who in turn manages to fall for Viola-dressed-asCesario. Several characters make up the

hijinks: Malvolio, Sir Toby Belch, Sir Andrew Aguecheek, servants Maria and Fabian, a sea captain, and a fool, Feste.

Marino has a long history with “Twelfth Night,” having put it on numerous times over the last two decades. While he focused his first productions more toward the farcical side, today he is approaching it with more of a balance.

“There is definitely a core of pain and longing that runs underneath its text; it pops out in little fits and starts,” he clarifies. “It’s a wonderful challenge to attempt to get the balance right. The play moves on so quickly that, once you establish a moment of delicacy and pain, it wants you to turn away and embrace comedy. The text turns on a dime. . . . Shakespeare being a transcendent writer reflects wonderfully human tendency in his text.”

The production features a well of talent, some of whom Marino has worked with throughout the years: Esther Williamson (Viola), Paul Teal (Sebastian), Shanara Gabrielle (Olivia), Paula Hubman-Daniel (Maria), Eric Bailey (Malvolio), Fred Grandy (Sir Toby), Ashley Strand (Sir Andrew), Keegan Siebken (Feste), Michael Thomas Dix (Orsino), Anthony Police (Fabian), Nick Battiste (Antonio), Sea Captail (Josh Browner) and Tony Choufani (Curio/Priest). It’s a homecoming for Marino and company.

“We have actors from two different versions of ‘Twelfth Night’ that I directed, one in 1999 and one in 2003,” he says. “It’s been thrilling to watch people from various companies in my past career get together and collaborate as a cast.”

Paula Hubman-Daniel played Maria in 1999, while Shanara Gabrielle and Eric C. Bailey took on Olivia and Malvolio. Ashley Strand played Orsino.

“I learned a few words wrong and unlearning those is a challenge,” Gabrielle quips. “We want it to be word-perfect! Playing Olivia ignites in me the kind of excitement all the great Shakespeare women do.

I love she gets to run the gamut of experiences: mourning, to lust, to rejection, to love, and everything in between.”

Gabrielle appreciates the intricacy of character development in Shakespeare: Every role propels forward the story and interweaves human experiences across the spectrum. Even though women weren’t seen as equals during his time, Shakespeare often wrote them with great depth.

“I love her intelligence and wit,” Hubman-Daniel tells of her third performance as Maria. “She comes up with the hilarious plan to fool and humiliate the uptight steward Malvolio.”

Bailey as Malvolio has played his character three times now. “The most challenging thing for me in this production is making my choices honest, but fresh,” he notes. “I love [Malvolio’s] dedication and desire for order. No matter how much he misinterprets the world or letters he finds, he just wants some consistency and order.”

One of the reasons Marino loves “Twelfth Night” is because of how relatable the characters are, across the board. They want relief and excitement from the daily grind. Thus audiences connect with snippets of each for different reasons.

“I see myself in my 20s in Orsino: falling in love and falling in love with the idea being in love,” Marino notes. “I identify with Viola’s longing, and how she sees the world through her heart. I understand the extremities that Olivia goes through; from extreme mourning to an almost maniacal love. I also understand Sebastian’s plight, spending most of his time trying not to be a burden or an inconvenience to Antonio.

There’s even a little bit of Malvolio in the side of me that likes rules and order. . . . [‘Twelfth Night’] a perfect comedy. Shakespeare gets the balance of pathos and outlandish humor right. If we have done our job, it is goosebumps material. We hope the audience feels that.”

DETAILS:

Twelfth Night

July 12, 19, 21, 26, 28, 7:30 p.m.

July 15, 28, 2 p.m. matinee Tickets: $24-$48 UNCW SRO Blackbox Theatre 5270 Randall Drive uncw.edu/arts/lumina/theatre.html Don’t forget to check the weekly savings to local businesses offered at...

! s l a de .com

“All of the music in ‘Twelfth Night’ is original and runs the gamut, from improvised underscoring to fully formed songs, lyrically written into the text by Shakespeare,” Varnam says. “I write original melodies and orchestration that fits somewhere in that

universe.”

encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 17

ARTS>>THEATRE

TRUTH TALK:

Israel ‘Negus Izzy’ Sorenson explores deep emotions in poetry, performs at Lumina Fest

BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

L

ike many wordsmiths, Israel “Negus Izzy” Sorenson’s poetry is centered on storytelling. Poetry and word performance, holds power Sorenson wields to cope with big emotions, as well as connect with audiences. He creates imagery, and projects and evokes relatable feelings through life events.

Happy or devastating, in some way or another, most everyone can connect or empathize.

Sorenson wrote a poem in 2015, “Daddy’s Little Girl,” filled with scenes of typical happy moments shared between a father and his daughter throughout the years they know and grow together.

However, it’s eventually revealed it’s all a dream.

“His daughter did not make it to term and was miscarried,” the poet tells of the story, which is based on Sorenson losing his first child. “I was really upset about it because I’ve always been a ‘family man.’ Of course, I was really excited to be a father and to have that just taken away so quickly in the moment was a painful experience. The only way I knew how to express it was through my writing.”

From an early age, Sorenson developed a love for reading and writing. His mother was a proponent of literature, which lead to him being able to (and allowing himself) to tap into a well of human emotion, especially topics not often discussed in black male communities.

“Normally when a miscarriage happens, we see the woman’s perspective but we never talk about how the father feels,” he explains. “[‘Daddy’s Little Girl’] is one of my favorites because it shows a story can be told and a lesson can be learned from someone else’s perspective, while going through something traumatic that people don’t talk about.”

Sorenson is part of Mics Wide Open, a collective of Wilmington poets and writers. He hosts Fresh Ink every second Saturday at Bottega Art and Wine Gallery in the Brooklyn Arts District. As well, he competes in competitions and poetry slams across North Carolina. Sorenson will perform this Friday night at Lumina Fest’s Coast 97.3 Poetry Jam.

Black Arts Alliance (BAA) is among the beneficiaries of Friday’s event. Founded in August 1998 by artists and arts patrons, BAA nurtures area performing, visual and literary artists. Coastal 97.3’s Sandra “The Midday Miss” McClammy (BAA treasurer) and Brandon “Bigg B” Hickman (BAA president) will host the show.

“As an alliance we regularly collaborate with other institutions that share our mission,” McClammy says, “including UNCW, Cape Fear Museum, Cape Fear Community College, the Louise Wells Cameron Art Museum, et al. We have developed a loyal following of arts enthusiasts representing a broad crosssection of the community through distinctive programming.”

Coast 97.3’s poetry jam also will benefit BAA’s North Carolina Black Film Festival, slated for September 20-23, 2018.

Performers have flocked to Coast 97.3’s Poetry Jam stage, which launched 12 years ago. Hickman and McClammy wanted the event to mirror the format of HBO’s “Def Poetry Jam.” They auditioned performers who cover a varied range of poetry and topics. “We have some who are speakers of love and romance, while others may speak on politics, community, the human condition, or just the plain humor of life,” McClammy details.

“We promote them as our ‘All-Stars,’” Hickman adds. “[97.3] believes in fostering a community that appreciates the world of entertainment and arts. With poetry being a foundation of music, we are strong advocates of those who perform it in the format of spoken word.”

Leading up to Friday’s headlining poet, Edwin Lawrence III (aka “Life”), Sorenson is joined by I’mmunique “AYCE,” Tina “Charisma” Hankins and Deirdre “DIVA” Parker. Parker has served as a mentor to Sorenson since he entered the poetry jam and arts scene three years ago. “She told me, ‘Speak your truth,’” he shares. “I know if I speak my truth, I can’t be upset with the outcome of my art.”

WORD-TO-WORD: Israel ‘Negus Izzy’ Sorenson, else feels, and we have the right to want who is speaking above at Bottega, prepares to share his to seek help without the stigma.” latest works at Coast 97.3’s Poetry Jam at Lumina Fest Each poet is allowed to select two poon Friday night. Photo by Zachery Wickes.

for the youth community.

“My goal as an artist is to extend my art outside of poetry,” Sorenson continues.

“Even in nonprofits, volunteer work and other facets to show we as artists—especially black male artists are becoming Renaissance men, not just men but the black community as a whole.”

Sorenson remains mum about work specific to Lumina Fest. However, he will continue to explore topics often taboo or rarely if ever discussed in black male culture—mental illness, anxiety and depression among them.

ems, and the feature poet will perform three to four. Content will range from PG to R—some language, material and/ or topics might not be suited for young children.

More info about the Black Arts Alliance can be found at www.blackartsalliance.org and the North Carolina Black Film Festival’s Facebook page.

DETAILS:

Lumina Fest: Coast 97.3 FM Poetry Jam

Friday, July 13, 7:30 p.m.

Kenan Auditorium 601 S. College Rd. “That’s the next big message I want to Sorenson cites a continuously growing convey through my art,” he continues. Tickets: $10

group of artists, events and groups (like Athenian Press) as a new Renaissance Age for the black arts community. The increasingly diverse nonprofits, as well as businesses, stand as examples needed

18 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

“It’s OK to have to deal with these things.

A lot of times we’re told as black men, to be masculine is to hide your emotions.

[I want to] use this art form to show we are still human, we feel the way anybody

uncw.edu/events/2017/07/lumina.html

ARTS>>THEATRE

CLASSIC SUCCESS:

Opera House Theatre Company brings back sing-a-long oldies in ‘Smokey Joe’s Cafe’ BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

O

pera House Theatre Company brings “Smokey Joe’s Café” to the main stage of Thalian Hall this summer. The works of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller is a musical revue, so it has no plot.

Instead, it is a collection of some of the most beloved songs of 20th century music: “Jailhouse Rock,” “Kansas City,” “Fools Fall in Love,” “Yakety Yak,” “Spanish Harlem” ... the list goes on.

Perhaps what makes the evening most special for Opera House fans is Lorene Walsh. Walsh has served as the musical director leading the orchestra pit for Opera House for well over a decade. Did you love the orchestra in “Les Mis”? Thank Lorene Walsh. Did you walk out of “Oklahoma!” or “Chicago” humming along? Thank Lorene Walsh. It is a hard job to do and an even harder one to explain, but a music director is an essential piece to mounting any of these shows. One of the things we, as audiences, tend to take for granted is just how lucky we are to have live music for Opera House shows. It is a very real expense but it makes all the difference in production quality.

Walsh has been the essential and unseen hero of many musical scores for many years. Due to health challenges, she has been on sabbatical for a while, but “Smokey Joe’s” is one of her favorite shows, and she has rallied to come back to do this one in conjunction with Tim McCoy. It is a gift she is giving our community, and to share this show with her is the way we can say thank you for all musical journeys she has guided us through over the years. So, thank you, Lorene. With you, Val Jean and Fantine’s voices soared my prayers to heaven; Curly’s ode to the most beautiful mornin’ warmed my heart and “Chicago” sizzled.

Some of the best nights of life came from your work. It’s great to hear you play again.

Thank you.

The show itself, though: Does it rock? Not really. It’s kind of like if Lawrence Welk produced “Smokey Joe’s Café.” About half the cast are in a very sweet and lovely show at a state fair. The other half are in a different show completely. There are some amazing stand-out numbers and performances, but there are also moments that made me scratch my head. Like, “Jailhouse Rock” ... why wasn’t Joe Basquill or Mathis Turner cast for the Elvis song? They’re age-appropriate for the role. With “Little Egypt,” Turner does recreate the song from the Elvis film “Roustabout.” It’s the perfect song for him

and combines funny lyrics that let him show off his penchant for comedy with a fun vehicle for his beautiful voice.

Maybe I am partial to songs that tell a story. Sydney Smith Martin’s rendition of “Pearl’s a Singer,” the story of a failed nightclub singer, is riveting. It was a big hit for Elkie Brooks in the ‘70s; though, I love the rendition Bernadette Peters recorded. Martin is so young and beautiful that watching her sing the song is not so much a lament for a lost life, as it is a cautionary tale passed on to her. She sells it with tremendous passion—it is not a fate she will submit to easily; she will go down fighting and I believe her completely.

Fracaswell Hyman on stage is a wonder; go buy a ticket to see this man on stage.

At first I thought Hyman was a comic genius. Then he played Troy Maxton in August Wilson’s “Fences” at Big Dawg earlier in the year and the magnitude of his dramatic performance shook me for days afterward.

Now, apparently, he’s a gifted singer and dancer, too! Is there anything he can’t do?

He’s got great comedic timing, so his rendition of “There Goes My Baby” is the moment of laughter the audience needs about half way through Act 2, when there have been some pretty heavy weight songs tearing at the heartstrings.

Earlier he serenades Elisa Eklof Smith with “Treat Me Nice” and sets her up for a roaring comeback with “Hound Dog.” She’s got a deep, powerful voice that needs something it can dig into and work around a bit.

Is it any surprise one of the two songs that showcased her voice the best was a hit for Big Mama Thornton? Not that anyone can, or ever will sing like Mama, but Smith gives a performance that manages to capture the response a woman would be justified to give Hyman under the circumstances. She makes the audience take up her cause.

Smith does well with songs that have a context, like the response to Hyman, she really sells “Saved,” a gospel salvation number in response to “D.W. Washburn” the story of a hapless drunk played by Joe Basquill.

“He’s got a lot of subtlety to the acting side of that song,” my date commented; it was his favorite part of the show. Basquill has a luminescence on stage and audiences will not want to peel their eyes from him.

Tricked out in a sparkly gold, skin-tight jumpsuit, with a feather boa that escaped from Dame Edna’s closet, Samantha Ray Mifsud captivates in “Don Juan”—the story of a formerly wealthy man whose mistress is leaving him. Her relationship with the chair she is sitting on starts looking something like

Sally Bowles doing “Mein Herr” in “Cabaret” and ends looking much more like a moment from “Evita.” She’s so beautiful and sexy, even if she didn’t sing elegantly, the number would be a success.

One of the high points of the show is “Spanish Harlem,” performed by Mifsud and Jason Aycock. Aycock serenades a beauty who has captured his heart and desire, to nurture and protect. It’s a lovely scene and he brings lots of class and gentility to it, but the best part is the dance sequence. Aycock has been dancing since he could walk, and though we frequently get to see him dance in musicals, it is rare to see him do partner work and lifts with someone of equal skill.

Watching skilled dancers perform is mesmerizing, and they make it look so beautiful and effortless it leaves one thinking anyone could do it. But it wouldn’t look as beautiful or graceful.

delivers his heart on a platter, wrapped in a velvety voice that is irresistible. It is worth the wait and price of admission.

I love the big ensemble numbers that close each act. “On Broadway” is always a fun, big dance number with the whole cast.

But Hyman’s solo during “Stand By Me” at curtain call is the perfect end to the evening.

“Smokey Joe’s Café” is a great opportunity to revisit classic oldies and sing-a-longs of youth.

DETAILS:

Smokey Joe’s Cafe: The Songs of Leiber and Stoller

July 13-15, 20-22, 8 p.m.; Sun. matinees, 3 p.m.

Tickets: $32 Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut St. Hands down, the song of the evening that crushed my heart and brought tears to my www.thalianhall.org eyes was Terrill Williams singing “I (Who Have Nothing).” He sits on the staircase and

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

tine 25 acres of fporrisest southern treetop 0 6 n a h t e r o m swings n a z r a t , s e l obstac es up to 50 feet and zip lin the ground above S AND GREAT FOR ADDULT ER KIDS 10 AN OLD a mixture HAT contain ranging T eS s r u o c es ng four S s and challe of obstacle ES, SWINGS, SLIDES, NET G D ID R R A B O m FB o fr AERIAL SUR AND EVEN AN encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 19

ARTS>>THEATRE

LET THERE BE LIGHT:

Keepin’ On Productions’ ‘The Diary of Adam and Eve’ is a testament to great local writing, directing and acting BY: CHASE HARRISON

W

hat is love? Is it an instantaneous sensation, a type of enveloping magic felt upon putting eyes on “The One”? Is it a subtle realization, not quite understood until we sense we need “The One” as much as air or food or water? For all the fundamental differences within humanity, love is the one thing we all share. It’s the subject matter Keepin’ On Productions focuses on quite eloquently with “The Diary of Adam and Eve.” It’s a play so moving, it brought this humble critic to tears.

Having opened last weekend and continuing its run through the next two weeks at Cape Fear Playhouse, the production is not just a “must see,” it’s a “don’t miss.” The play shows what theatre can accomplish because it is why theatre is done.

Adapted for the stage by Wilmington theatre’s own Renaissance man, Anthony Lawson, the local writer, director and actor used the works of Mark Twain to shape what is,

for all intent and purposes, the world’s first romantic comedy. He takes the audience all the way back to the … well, to the beginning of time. Yeah, it’s that Adam (Brendan Carter) and that Eve (Susan Auten) who are being followed—the first two people on Earth, in the Garden of Eden, at the Tree of Knowledge, eating the Forbidden Apple, and all that jazz.

When the house opens, the audience is welcomed into the garden and it’s a paradise to see. Eden’s scenic design is so detailed in an outstanding paint job by Donna Troy that it creates a pleasant sense of peace. It utilizes every inch of the stage and transforms into a wondrous and vast forest. Grass is painted onto the floor and spreads out to under the first row of seats, while trees grow strong in the foreground of the set and begin to peter off into shadows in the distance. The elements all perfectly encapsulate the viewer into the world of the play. The paint covers a very open set, with entrances and exits coming from all corners to create a vast forest.

Scott Davis has worked magic with the simplicity of it all to craft a real outdoor world.

The pacing is incredibly quick and funny, and never gives in fully to satire. Religion isn’t an important factor; these characters are used more to show that, even from the dawn of time. Broken up in a back-and-forth style, each character delivers monologues depicting the everyday, joyous life in Eden, and the constant hardships they face once they’re outcasts. They recount entries from their leatherbound diaries, which start from the first day they’re alive. Auten sums up hers with such a childlike sense of wonder, as she makes the proclamation, “I’m a whole day old!” On the last day of life, Carter lets out a pain only learned through age, with the realization, “Wheresoever she was, there was Eden.”

They both grow into themselves and into a relationship in the newly minted world over a full lifetime and it is beautiful to witness. Adam and Eve don’t interact with each other too often; yet, Auten and Carter create a powerful connection with their knowing looks—a palpable, silent communication. The two leads morph the known figures into modern-day real people and bare fruit on what true love means.

In the beginning, the stage manager utters the famous words, “Let there be light,” and the show begins with Carter’s Adam rising from the dust. He is fresh to this unnamed world, ready to set off and explore, to catalogue it, and to name all the creatures which roam it. Carter gives the role an Indiana Jones or Reed Richards energy, with a gnawing need to understand what is around him. A human personification of charisma, he bounds across the stage and embodies an analytical outlook of a scientist. His expressive face runs the gambit of emotion, from exhaustion he endures at Eve’s unending and unasked help during his “experiments,” to the slight cast of a caring eye toward her in what has become a cultivated love on a quiet day. It’s awesome work from a hardworking actor. He also compels the audience with laughter, especially during his scene of perplexity at what a baby could be; it is the stuff of comedy gold.

Susan Auten is an actress who has brought to life countless roles across all of Wilmington stages, ranging from light-hearted in “His Girl Friday” to heartbreaking with “The Mercy Seat.” In each role she conquers, it becomes clear Auten as been preparing for the likes of Eve. The greatest compliment I believe one can pay an actor is that, while they portrayed a role, they owned it. Auten is Eve; she walks the tightrope of comedy and tragedy so seamlessly, it’s like she wasn’t even playing a part at all. She manages to bring out the deepest belly laughs from the simplest moments. Her excitement over finally naming the odd thing in the trees, an exclamation of “monkey!”, will stay with me forever.

20 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Matching the pendulum swing of intensity, when she is confronted with the existence of death, her pleas for her son to wake up are truly haunting and painful. Auten cradles the audience to her and creates an empathic bond, so when she wins, the audience wins, and when she breaks, we all break. Auten crafts a fully formed character and cements herself as one of the best actresses to grace a Wilmington stage.

The production’s director, Steve “Hey, Baby” Vernon, has orchestrated a masterful play, and at the starting gun, it exacts a rampant stride. Still, it manages to properly slow or more apt to say, “age,” as the play progresses to its climax. At its start, it bounces around like an 8-year-old on Halloween on a sugar high—with our leads having to see everything, know everything, and question everything in Act 1. It’s reshaped through Act 2, to show acceptance of the world we live in, how it works, and discerning if it’s good or bad.

Vernon handles the production’s sound design as an awesome extension of the play’s humor. A hilarious cover of the Chili’s “Baby Back Ribs” ditty is used and inarguably is perfect. It also uses the “Highlander” soundtrack, so it gets bonus points in my book.

Once the story was told and the lights came on, I began to listen to the clamoring of my fellow audience members. Gauging their reactions to what they had just seen, in my eavesdropping, I found the general consensus seemed to be it was great but not what they were expecting. It’s not pure farce, or poking irrational fun at an irrational story. I wondered if they believed it to be a comedy of parables, in the same vain as “Davey and Goliath.” Truth is, it’s none of those things—just a simple, effective story of love between two people and timeless in nature.

“The Diary of Adam and Eve” is relatable: When you fall in love with another, doesn’t it just feel like you are the only two people on the Earth anyway? I can’t recommend this play more; it’s art. And I can’t wait to see what Keepin’ On Productions does next.

DETAILS:

The Diary of Adam and Eve

July 12-15, and 19-22, 8 p.m. or Sun. matinees, 3 p.m.

Tickets: $15 Cape Fear Playhouse 613 Castle St. www.bigdawgproductions.org 910-367-5237

ARTS>>COMEDY

PUNCHING UP:

Queens-bred comedian brings his sardonic humor to the Gypsy this week instructions [on how to get a performance slot] and I did a show a month later [on January 7, 2002]. . . . Once I started doing rowing up in New York, standup [comedy], it was like being thrown into the comedian Steve Hofstetter crafted ocean and realizing I was a fish.” his naturally dry, sarcastic wit from During his college years, Hofstetter’s cathe locals around him. Being the youngest reer went full circle before blasting off. He sibling of four and growing up in Queens landed a writing gig as a columnist for colhelped him develop thick skin. “There’s a certain anger to us,” he tells encore. “I legehumor.com, a comedy website based in Los Angeles, and continued to perform don’t take crap from anybody.” at local New York venues. In August 2003, Coming to the Juggling Gypsy on Thurs- he published a book, “Student Body Shots,” day, July 12, Hofstetter plans a show that for College Humor—a collection of college may not sit well with the hypersensitive truths and an offshoot of his humor column or anyone prone to emotional outbursts. from the site. At 23 Hofstetter held an adA ginger who was often bullied in school, ditional job while promoting his book via Hofstetter comes armed as “The Heckler standup shows.

Destroyer.” He will send quippy audiences “My day job was working the front desk into the realm of public embarrassment with a quickness. It may even land them of a bed and breakfast,” he details. “I had on his YouTube channel, where he hosts to go over receipts and make sure everya segment known as “Heckler Owned;” thing lined up. It was a really tedious job. some videos have reached over 5 million I go and perform at this college, I cobble views. The series features live perfor- together an act, and the show goes well. mance recordings of Hofstetter strategical- Afterward, I’m signing books, and everyone ly lashing out snarky comebacks to anyone wants to talk to me. It’s wonderful, but then who isn’t keen on his politically or socially I’d go home and go back to the inn the next controversial humor. In one video, Hofstet- day. I’m back to signing receipts. These ter attempts to tell a joke about unexpected people signing in to the inn don’t care that pregnancy before being interrupted by a last night I was a star.”

G

ing and how comedy pulled him out of a bad situation.

BY: MEL BEASLEY

woman in the crowd.

“It takes more effort to order a pizza than have a child,” Hofstetter says.

The heckler chimes in: “Bullshit! How many children have you had?”

Hofstetter casually sips a glass of water before responding. “Has anyone ever ordered a pizza by accident?”

As he continued to perform at less-thanstellar clubs, bars and road gigs, Hofstetter remembers trying to shape his sets to appease difficult crowds by performing hacky jokes to get easy laughs. Instead of his comic career taking off, it seemed to plateau, and the more Hofstetter tried not to bomb his shows, the more he seemed to do just that.

Hofstetter’s show takes place July 12 at Juggling Gypsy at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at SteveHofstetter.com.

THE HECKLER DESTROYER: Steve Hofstetter will bring his brand of politically incorrect humor to ILM on Thursday. Photo by Sean Smith

airport until he saw someone’s dog shitting nearby; and he may share parts from his new book, “Ginger Kid: Mostly True Tales from a Former Nerd.” The collection of personal essays was released in March and details his experience with childhood bully-

DETAILS:

Comedian Steve Hofstetter

July 12, 7 p.m.

Tickets: $20 Juggling Gypsy • 1612 Castle St. (910) 763-2223 jugglinggypsy.com stevehofstetter.com

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“[At one point,] I had a show that was a Instead of backing down, the heckler continues. “Well, if you have never had any really bad environment,” he recalls. “There children, then what the hell do you know was no way of winning. I was doing hacky material, and no one was laughing. [I realabout pizza?” ized], if I didn’t do hacky material and no “I’ve never flown a helicopter. If I saw one laughed, at least I would have said one in a tree I could still be like, ‘You fucked what I wanted to say.” up,’” he responded.

“The Your Tour” will come to the Gypsy Before Hofstetter was turning on the and encapsulate portions from his new zingers, he was a student at Columbia hour-long comedy special “Secret OptiUniversity with aspirations on becoming mist,” along with new material. “I talk about a sports writer. However, it all changed Nazis,” Hofstetter reveals. “It’s not someafter he attended a friend’s birthday party thing I thought I’d talk about, but they are at a bar, then known as The Underground here. I like to be contrary; I like to find things Lounge in New York, a place where standpeople agree with and then show them why up comics performed. they are wrong.”

“I had been dabbling with the idea of doHofstetter also will talk about how he being standup for years, but that never macame an optimist after someone was murterialized,” Hofstetter tells. “The guy who dered in his Syracuse hotel during a tour; organized the shows gave me a bunch of how he was happy for the first time in an

When reflecting back on his career as a comedian, Hofstetter wants other budding comedians to stay humble and true to themselves. “There are tons of funny people,” he says. “You have to earn [success]; funny is unlimited. The trick is to figure out why your commodity is a resource. Funny is not oil, funny is corn.”

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encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 21

SPECIALS

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

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

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

3530 Carolina Beach Rd• (910) 769-1059 • Open 7 days a week 11am-9:30pm 22 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

REEL TO REEL

ARTS>>FILM

EPIC CRIME DRAMA:

films this week CINEMATIQUE

Sequel to ‘Sicario’ is a solid drama with good acting, mostly

S

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

BY: ANGHUS

equels are commonplace in the movie business. It’s hardly a surprise when they announce a ninth “Fast and Furious” movie or the 21st installment of the Marvel movie franchise. A sequel to a well-reviewed drama about combating the Mexican drug cartels feels a little more surprising. I was a fan of the original “Sicario,” a dark, sinister examination into the drug war. It had fantastically crafted characters and was directed by one of Hollywood’s most revered up-and-comers (Denis Villeneuve). While I liked the movie, it wasn’t something that needed to become an epic crime trilogy.

Yet, here we are, with “Sicario: Day of the Soldado,” the next installment in what appears to be a multi-film arc about Alejandro (Benicio Del Toro), working every angle to take down the monstrous cartel responsible for the death of his family. The original film had Alejandro working with a special FBI unit headed up by Matt Graver (Josh Brolin). The sequel opens up the film with an interesting premise involving the oft-debated US/Mexican border: What if terrorists were using coyotes (Mexican human traffic smugglers) to get into the United States and execute attacks on American soil?

After a horrific suicide-bombing with attackers believed to have snuck across our Southern border, the Department of Defense decides the drug cartels that operate the human trafficking operations are terrorists. They enlist Graver to start a shadow war with the drug cartels and destroy their operations by any means necessary. Graver enlists the aid of Alejandro, who is still itching to exact revenge. They concoct a plan to try and get the cartels to tear one another apart; kidnap the daughter of a powerful drug lord named Reyes and blame competing gangs until a bloody war helps thin the herd.

The plan becomes more complicated when the US government begins to get cold feet and decides the entire operation needs to be scrubbed. Every asset, every innocent victim, and everyone connected with the mission needs to be erased, including the innocent Isabel (Isabela Moner), who is now being hunted by every gangster in Mexico. It puts Alejandro and Graver on opposite sides of the conflict.

“Sicario: Day of the Soldado” is a solid

July 11, 7 p.m. (additional 4 p.m. screening): The Beatles celebrate the 50 anniversary of the animated classic, “Yellow Submarine.” The remastered rerelease of the 1968 film follows Captain Fred in his yellow submarine on the journey to Pepperland, to free it from the music, hating Blue Meanies, filled with puns and dry British humor.

The swirling animation is a mixture of pop-culture images and modern artistic styles brought together with an antiwar message and some clever political commentary.

BORDER CONTROL: Benicio Del Toro is great in the ‘Sicario’ sequel. Photo courtesy of Lionsgate

drama with some decent action. It doesn’t quite capture the sense of dread that permeated almost every frame of the original.

However, it does manage to create some interesting and thought-provoking scenarios about the concepts of collateral damage and a culture that has been created from turning transport into America into a lucrative business. The inhumanity at play here is daunting. There are so many pawns in the game and so much profit made from the suffering of others.

The movie works because of the talent in front of the camera. Josh Brolin is a fantastic, scenery-chewing machine. Benicio Del Toro is even-handed and earnest as a character searching for a shred of humanity to hold onto.

Still, a few roles seem woefully miscast.

Katherine Keener is absolutely dreadful as the government shill who oversees the big-picture elements of the illegal operation.

Not a single genuine moment came from her performance. She’s one of those good actresses absolutely wrong for the role, like Laura Linney in “The Truman Show.”

There’s all work being done to sell this gritty, grounded narrative and Keener shows up, spouting out clichéd dialogue as if her performance was contractually mandated. It’s always weird to see an experienced actor show up in a movie and stick out like a sore thumb. Keener has turned in some amazing performances, but I’m guessing this one isn’t going to end up being used for an “In Memoriam” clip at the Oscars to honor her when the time comes.

The first “Sicario” feels like a unified vision and is creatively cohesive. The second is like a lot of good ideas that never fully get explored. I enjoyed the movie and themes, but it could have gone to deeper places.

The movie never provides us with a real villain, which is interesting but it negates much of the setup. In fact, there are a few plot threads that never really finish.

A good sequel can exist as an extension of the original and its own movie. “Sicario 2” doesn’t quite stick the landing, but it’s still an occasionally powerful drama probing some uncomfortable places.

DETAILS:

Sicario: Day of the Soldado Rated R Directed by Stefano Sollima Starring Josh Brolin, Benicio Del Toro, Isabela Moner, Katherine Keener

July 16-18, 7 p.m.(additional 4 p.m. screening on July 16): From Sebastián Lelio, the director of the Academy Award-winning “A Fantastic Woman,” “Disobedience” follows a woman as she returns to the community that shunned her decades earlier for an attraction to a childhood friend. Once back, their passions reignite as they explore the boundaries of faith and sexuality. Based on Naomi Alderman’s book, the film stars Rachel Weisz, Rachel McAdams and Alessandro Nivola.

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SOUTHEASTERN NC’S PREMIER DINING GUIDE

GRUB & GUZZLE

sunsets. As a Casual American Grill and Oyster Bar, Elijah’s offers everything from fresh local seafood and shellfish to pastas, sandwiches, and Certified Angus Beef selections.

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

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.

■ WEBSITE: www.henrysrestaurant.com

ANTONIO’S PIZZA & PASTA • antoniospizzapastanc.com

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Waterfront dining ■ MUSIC: Music every Sunday in Summer ■ WEBSITE: www.bluewaterdining.com BLUE SURF CAFÉ

Sophisticated Food…Casual Style. We offer a menu that has a heavy California surf culture influence while still retaining our Carolina roots. We provide a delicate balance of flavors and freshness in a comfortable and inviting setting.

We offer a unique breakfast menu until noon daily, including specialty waffles, skillet hashes and unique breakfast sandwiches. Our lunch menu is packed with a wide variety of options, from house roasted pulled pork, to our mahi sandwich and customer favorite, meatloaf sandwich. Our dinner features a special each night along with our favorite house entrees: Braised Beef Brisket, Mojo Pork and Mahi.

All of our entrees are as delicious as they are inventive.

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

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

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

24 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

courtesy photo

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

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

HOLIDAY INN RESORT Oceans Restaurant located in this oceanfront resort is a wonderful find. This is the perfect place to enjoy a fresh Seafood & Steak dinner while dinning outside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Chef Eric invites you to experience his daily specials in this magnificent setting. (910) 256-2231.

1706 N. Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach.

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

■ OPEN: Mon-Thurs 10:57 am - 10 pm; Fri-Sat 10:57 am - 11 pm {Serving Brunch 10:57am – 3pm & bar open until midnight}; Brunch ALL DAY Sunday 9:57am – 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.hopssupplycompany.com JOHNNYLUKES KITCHENBAR Good eats, good drinks, and great times is what JohnnyLukes KitchenBar is all about. JohnnyLukes KitchenBar serves Wilmington, NC a variety of 19 rotating craft beers on tap, a hand selected eclectic American wine list, fun cocktails, and of course, exceptional food. Our two-story layout brings the best of both worlds under one roof.

Downstairs at JohnnyLukes KitchenBar pair your beer or wine with our Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop, Chicken Pot Pie, Ribeye, or one of our many main entrees and sharable plates. Or, join us upstairs at JL’s Loft and pair a beer with one of our multiple burgers, JL’s roast beef sandwich, meatball sandwich, or one of our many appetizers (we recommend both!). So next time you are looking for a new and exciting restaurant in Wilmington, NC where you can experience both great craft beer and amazing food, be sure to head over to JohnnyLukes KitchenBar and JL’s Loft! 5500 Market Street, Suite 130. (910)-769-1798 ■ OPEN: JohnnyLukes KitchenBar: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 10pm; JL’s Loft: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 2am ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.johnnylukeskb.com KURE BEACH DINER George and Frankie Turner opened the Kure Beach Diner in 2012. Once located beside the old 1923 Kure Beach Pier, once Hurrican Hazel wiped out the two-story building, the pier house tackle shop moved across the lane and housed the Seaside Café. The stories of the original days and of the beach in a bygone era are still told on the Kure Beach Diner’s walls, which today is known for some of the best grits and hushpuppies around. The laidback local joint prides itself on its old-school vibe, serving American food from morning to night. 101 K Ave, Kure Beach, (910) 458-8778 ■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER: Breakfast is served 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. daily. Lunch and dinner are served 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Kure Beach ■ WEBSITE: wwwfacebook.com/Kure-Beach-Diner-276729072381968 THE LAZY PIRATE The Lazy Pirate is a place where the food will hold your tastebuds down and tickle them silly, as drinks flow like an ice cold river. The menu is delicious—not pretentious.

After having an ice-cold beverage—virgin or not—you can start a culinary safari with one of our delicious homemade appetizers. The epicurean’s adventure will continue with a main entree, ranging from stacked juicy burgers to fresh seafood, as well as exquisite specialty items. The diner’s last stop on this tantalizing trip, which is literally the icing on the cake, will come with a plethora of scrumptious homemade desserts only Willy Wonka could match. It’s all to be enjoyed inside or in our outside courtyard, where games and activities will make you feel like a kids again!

701 N Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, 458-5299 ■ SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER: Open Monday through Thursday, 5-10 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, noon - 11 p.m. through April 30, 2018.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Pleasure Island ■ WEBSITE: www.lazypiratesportsgrill.com ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.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: www.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 ambience of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to childhood. Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is something for all palates. Take advantage of their take-home frozen meals for nights that are too hectic to cook, and don’t forget to pick up a great bottle of wine to go with it. 3520 S. College Road, (910) 350-FOOD. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri.10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sun. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials and take-home frozen meals ■ WEBSITE: www.pinevalleymarket.com ROADHOUSE OF WILMINGTON Roadhouse is an American-style restaurant and focuses on homemade, classic dishes, cooked to order, using fresh ingredients. They are located at in the old Saltworks building on Wrightsville Avenue and open at 8:00 a.m. for breakfast and lunch, and 5:00 p.m. for dinner. Breakfast is served 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., lunch from 11:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Look for daily specials and other important information online at www.facebook.com/roadhousewilmington, or call (910) 765-1103. Please, no reservations.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: 8 a.m. breakfast and lunch; 5 p.m. dinner ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: facebook.com/roadhousewilmington SPOONFED KITCHEN & BAKE SHOP Newly opened Spoonfed Kitchen & Bake Shop is bringing their love for great food and customer service to Wilmington! Spoonfed Kitchen & Bake Shop specializes in creating wholesome, delightful foods to feed your lifestyle. Please join us in our cafe for breakfast, lunch & weekend brunch.

We offer coffee & pastries, great foods to go from our deli & freezer cases (appetizers, salads, entrees & sides), bakery items (scones, cinnamon rolls, cookies, brownies, pies & more), gluten-free bakery items, and specialty market, cheeses & beverage. Catering is also available for all budets from personal to corporate to events. #feedyourlifestyle. 1930 Eastwood Road, Suite 105, Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 679-8881. Open Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Sat. - Sun. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ SERVING BRUNCH: Sat. & Sun. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ WEBSITE: www.spoonfedkitchen.com THE TROLLY STOP Trolly Stop Grill and Catering is a four store franchise in North Carolina. Trolly Stop Hotdogs opened in Wrightsville Beach in 1976. That store name has never changed.

Since the Wrightsville Beach store, the newer stores sell hotdogs, hamburgers, beef and chicken cheese steaks, fries, hand dipped ice cream, milk shakes, floats and more.

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

Check our website trollystophotdogs.com for hours of operations, specific store offerings and telephone numbers, or contact Rick Coombs, 910-297-8416, rtrollystop@ aol.com We offer catering serving 25-1000 people. Franchises available ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ LOCATIONS: Wilmington, Fountain Dr. (910) 452-3952 Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-3921 Southport (910) 457-7017

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

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

We’re convenient for lunch and dinner. Open 7 days 11 am - 9 pm. Our popular Daily Lunch Specials are featured Monday-Saturday for $4.99 with selections from our most popular menu items! We always have fresh seafood selections at Hibachi To Go, like delicious hand peeled shrimp, fresh local flounder and always a fresh catch fillet in-house.

We scratch make every item on our menu daily. We offer your favorite hibachi meals and some of our originals like our pineapple won tons. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for the most up to date information on Hibachi To Go. Always fresh, great food at a super good price. Hampstead Phone: 910.270.9200. • Ogden Phone: 910.791.7800 Wilmington Phone: 910-833-8841 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open 7 days 11am-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, N. Wilmington, Hampstead ■ WEBSITE: www.hibachitogo.com INDOCHINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Orient without having to leave Wilmington, join us at Indochine for a truly unique experience. Indochine brings the flavors of the Far East to the Port City, combining the best of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine in an atmosphere that will transport

you and your taste buds. Relax in our elegantly decorated dining room, complete with antique Asian decor as well as contemporary artwork and music. Our diverse, friendly and efficient staff will serve you beautifully presented dishes full of enticing aromas and flavors. Be sure to try such signature items as the spicy and savory Roasted Duck with Red Curry, or the beautifully presented and delicious Shrimp and Scallops in a Nest. Be sure to save room for our world famous desert, the banana egg roll! We take pride in using only the freshest ingredients, and our extensive menu suits any taste. After dinner, enjoy specialty drinks by the koi pond in our Asian garden. Located at 7 Wayne Drive (beside the Ivy Cottage), (910) 251-9229.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.indochinewilmington.com NIKKI’S FRESH GOURMET For more than a decade, Nikki’s downtown has served diners the best in sushi. With freshly crafted ingredients making up their rolls, sushi and sashimi, a taste of innovation comes with every order. Daily they offer specialty rolls specific to the Front Street location, such as the My Yoshi, K-Town and Crunchy Eel rolls. But for less adventurous diners looking for options beyond sushi, Nikki’s serves an array of sandwiches, wraps and gyros, too.

They also make it a point to host all dietary needs, omnivores, carnivores and herbivores alike. They have burgers and cheesesteaks, as well as falafal pitas and veggie wraps, as well as an extensive Japanese fare menu, such as bento boxes and tempura platters. Daily dessert and drink special are also on order. Check out their website and Facebook for more information. 16 S. Front St. (910) 771-9151.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am-

Now serving lunch!

Fast! Fresh!

Fabulous!

• Sandwiches on housemade bread • Handmade pastas • Seasonal salads • Fresh sauces & specialties • Quick, casual options

And so much more!

#Onlyatroko

Lunch: Mon.-Fri., 11:30am-2:00pm • Dinner: Mon.-Sat. 5:00pm-10:00pm • Closed Sundays 6801 Parker Farm Dr Ste 105 | (910) 679-4783 • www.RokoItalian.com

encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 25

10pm; Fri.-Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 12pm-10pm. Last call on food 15 minutes before closing.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.nikkissushibar.com/ OKAMI JAPANESE HIBACHI STEAK HOUSE We have reinvented “Hibachi cuisine.” Okami Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse is like no other. Our highly skilled chefs cook an incredible dinner while entertaining you on the way. Our portions are large, our drinks are less expensive, and our staff is loads of fun. We are committed to using quality ingredients and seasoning with guaranteed freshness. Our goal is to utilize all resources, domestically and internationally, to ensure we serve only the finest food products. We believe good, healthy food aids vital functions for well-being, both physically and mentally. Our menu consists of a wide range of steak, seafood, and chicken for the specially designed “Teppan Grill.” We also serve tastebud-tingling Japanese sushi, hand rolls, sashimi, tempura dishes, and noodle entrees. This offers our guests a complete Japanese dining experience. Our all-youcan-eat sushie menu and daily specials can be found at www.okamisteakhouse.com! 614 S College Rd. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am2:30pm / 4-10pm; Fri., 11am-2:30pm / 4pm-11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am-9:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.okamisteakhouse.com SZECHUAN 132 Craving expertly prepared Chinese food in an elegant atmosphere? Szechuan 132 Chinese Restaurant is your destination! Szechuan 132 has earned the reputation as one of the finest contemporary Chinese restaurants in the Port City. Tastefully decorated with an elegant atmosphere, with an exceptional ingenious menu has deemed Szechuan 132 the best Chinese restaurant for years, hands down.

419 South College Road (in University Landing), (910)

799-1426.

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

33 S. Front St., 2nd Floor (910) 763-3172.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: 1/2 Price Sushi/Appetizer Menu nightly from 5-7, until 8 on Mondays, and also 10-Midnight on Fri/Sat. Tuesday LOCALS NIGHT - 20% Dinner Entrees.

Wednesday 80S NIGHT - 80s music and menu prices.

Sundays are the best deal downtown - Specialty Sushi and Entrees are Buy One, Get One $10 Off and 1/2 price Wine Bottles. Nightly Drink Specials. Gluten-Free Menu upon request. Complimentary Birthday Dessert.

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

YOSHI Yoshi Sushi Bar and Japanese Cuisine offers something the greater Wilmington area has never seen before. We are seeking to bring true New York Style Sushi to Wilmington, with classic sushi and sashimi, as well as traditional rolls and some unique Yoshi Creations. We offer a variety

of items, including Poke Bowls and Hibachi - and we also are introducing true Japanese Ramen Bowls! Come try it today! 260 Racine Dr, Wilmington 28403 (910)799-6799 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. 12pm-11pm, Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-11pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.com

BAGELS BEACH BAGELS Beach Bagels is the best spot for breakfast and lunch in Wilmington. Serving traditional New York Style Bagels is our speciality. We boil our bagels before baking them, which effectively sets the crust and produces a perfect bagel made with love. Don’t forget about our selection of custom sandwiches that are always made to order. Try out our breakfast options like The Heart Attack filled with Egg, Country Ham, Bacon, Sausage, and American Cheese, or the Egg-White Dun-Rite with Egg Whites, Avocado, Pepper Jack Cheese, Spinach, and Tomato. Our Boar’s Head meats & cheeses are the perfect accoutrements for assembling the perfect sandwich, every time! Check out our Cuban Chicken Lunch Sandwich, complete with Boar’s Head Chicken Breast, Ham, Swiss, Pickles, Lettuce, Mayo, and Yellow Mustard. You can also make your own! Not in the mood for a bagel? Don’t worry, we have ciabatta bread, croissants, Kaiser rolls, biscuits, wraps, salads, bowls, omelettes, and more! Make your lunch a combo for $1.50 more, and get a small drink, potato salad or chips, and a pickle spear. Visit us at 5906 Oleander Drive or 7220 Wrightsville Avenue right before the drawbridge to Wrightsville Beach. Look out for our third location, coming to Monkey Junction soon!.

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

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

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

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

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

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

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

26 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

CARIBBEAN JAMAICA’S COMFORT ZONE Tucked in the U-shape of University Landing, a block from UNCW is Wilmington’s fave Caribbean restaurant, serving diners for over nine years. Family-owned and -operated, Jamaica’s Comfort Zone provides a relaxing atmosphere along with a blend of Caribbean delights. Our guests have graced us with numerous compliments over the years: “explosive Caribbean culinary experience”; “every year we are here on vacation—you are our first stop”; “flavors just dance in my mouth.” From traditional Jamaican breakfast to mouth-watering classic dishes such as Brownstew chicken, curry goat, oxtail, and jerk pork, our selections also include many vegetarian and select seafood options.

Student meal options are $6.99, and catering options are available. University Landing, 417 S. College Road, Wilmington SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues-Sat., 11:45am9pm. Closed Sun. and Mon. NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown WEBSITE: www.jamaicascomfortzone.net, and follow us

on Facebook or Twitter JAMAICA HOUSE SPORTS BAR AND GRILL Jamaica House provides diners with the real taste of the island! They offer a wide variety of Caribbean dishes, such as oxtail, curry goat jerk chicken, rice and beans, steamed cabbage, beef or chicken patty, and more! Their chefs and staff are dedicated to give you a real Jamaica experience every single time you walk through the door. 2206 Carolina Beach Rd. (910) 833-8347 SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Buffet hours are Tues.

- Thurs., 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Fri. and Sat., 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun., 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.

NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington

DINNER THEATRE THEATRENOW TheatreNOW is a performing arts complex that features weekend dinner theater, an award-winning weekly kids variety show, monthly Sunday Jazz Brunches, movie, comedy and live music events. Award-winning chef, Denise Gordon, and a fabulous service staff pair scrumptious multicourse themed meals and cocktails with our dinner shows in a theatre-themed venue. Dinner theater at its best!

Reservations highly suggested. 19 S. 10th Street (910) 399.3NOW (3669). Hours vary.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Dinner shows, jazz brunches, and more ■ WEBSITE: www.theatrewilmington.com

FONDUE THE LITTLE DIPPER Wilmington’s favorite fondue restaurant! The Little Dipper specializes in unique fondue dishes with a global variety of cheeses, meats, seafood, vegetables, chocolates and fine wines. The warm and intimate dining room is a great place to enjoy a four-course meal, or indulge in appetizers and desserts outside on the back deck or in the bar while watching luminescent jellyfish. Reservations are appreciated for parties of any size. Located at the corner of Front and Orange in Downtown Wilmington. 138 South Front Street. (910) 251-0433.

■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; open 7 days/week seasonally, May-October ■ SERVING WEEKEND LUNCH: Sat & Sun, 11:30am2:30pm, seasonally May-October ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Tasting menu every Tues. with small plates from $1-$4; Ladies Night every Wed; $27 4-course prix fixe menu on Thurs.; “Date night menu,” $65/couple with beer and wine tasting every Fri. and half-price bottles of wine on Sun. ■ MUSIC: Tuesdays on the deck, 7 – 9p.m., May-Oct ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com

GREEK SYMPOSIUM RESTAURANT AND BAR After moving to Wilmington Chef George Papanikolaou and his family opened up The Greeks in 2012 and with the support of the community was able to venture out and try something different with Symposium. Symposium is an elegant experience consisting of recipes that Chef George has collected his whole life. Many of the recipes are family recipes that have been handed down through the years, one is as old as 400 years old. With a blend of fresh local ingredients, delicious longstanding family recipes, and Authentic Greek cuisine Symposium is a restaurant that is unique in its cooking and unforgettable in the experience it offers. Everything on the menu is a mouthwatering experience from the charred octopus, to the lamb shank with papardelle pasta, to the homemade baklava and galaktoboureko! Happy Eating OPA!! Located in Mayfaire Town

Center at 890 Town Center Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) 239-9051. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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

IRISH THE HARP Experience the finest traditional Irish family recipes and popular favorites served in a casual yet elegant traditional pub atmosphere. The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St., proudly uses the freshest ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible, to bring you and yours the most delicious Irish fare!

We have a fully stocked bar featuring favorite Irish beers and whiskies. We are open every day for both American and Irish breakfast, served to noon weekdays and 2 p.m. weekends. Regular menu to 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. weekends. Join us for trivia at 8:30 on Thursdays and live music on Fridays – call ahead for schedule (910) 763-1607. Located just beside Greenfield Lake and Park at the south end of downtown Wilmington, The Harp is a lovely Irish pub committed to bringing traditional Irish flavor, tradition and hospitality to the Cape Fear area.

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/slaintemj HOPLITE IRISH PUB AND RESTAURANT Now in its eighth year, Hoplite Irish Pub and Restaurant is Pleasure Island’s favorite neighborhood spot for great food, gathering with friends and enjoying drinks. Their outdoor patio fills with sounds of local musicians on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as karaoke on Tuesdays and trivia on Wednesdays.

Offering reasonably priced homemade comfort-style pub grub, folks can dine on chicken salad sandwiches, Shepard’s Pie, Angus beef burgers, veggie burger, shrimp ‘n’ grits, homemade mac ‘n’ cheese balls, freshbattered onion rings, fresh-made daily desserts, and so much more. 720 N Lake Park Blvd., (910) 458-4745 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. and Fri. and Sat. until midnight.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Pleasure Island ■ WEBSITE: www.hopliterestaurant.com

ITALIAN

ANTONIO’S Serving fresh, homemade Italian fare in midtown and south Wilmington, Antonio’s Pizza and Pasta is a familyowned restaurant which serves New York style pizza and pasta. From daily specials during lunch and dinner to a friendly waitstaff ensuring a top-notch experience,

whether dining in, taking out or getting delivery, to generous portions, the Antonio’s experience is an unforgettable one. Serving subs, salads, pizza by the slice or pie, pasta, and more, dine-in, take-out and delivery! 3501 Oleander Dr., #2, and 5120 S. College Rd. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (Sun., open at 11:30 a.m.)

■ NEIGHBORHOOD DELIVERY OFFERED: Monkey Junction and near Independence Mall ■ WEBSITE: www.antoniospizzaandpasta.com THE ITALIAN BISTRO The Italian Bistro is a family-owned, full-service Italian restaurant and pizzeria located in Porters Neck. They offer a wide variety of N.Y. style 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) 686-7774 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun.brunch, 10 a.m.

- 2 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck ■ WEBSITE: www.italianbistronc.com FAT TONY’S ITALIAN PUB Fat Tony’s has the right combination of Italian and American influences to mold it into a unique family-friendly restaurant with a “gastropub” feel. Boasting such menu items as Veal Saltimbocca, Eggplant Parmigiana, USDA Prime Sirloin, and award-winning NY style hand-tossed pizzas, Fat Tony’s is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their appetizers range from Blue Crab Dip to Grilled Pizzas to Lollipop Lamb Chops.

Proudly supporting the craft beer movement, they have an ever-changing selection of microbrews included in their 27tap lineup – 12 of which are from NC. They have a wide selection of bottled beers, a revamped wine list, and an arsenal of expertly mixed cocktails that are sure to wet any whistle. Fat Tony’s offers lunch specials until 3pm Monday through Friday and a 10% discount to students and faculty at CFCC. They have two pet-friendly patios – one looking out onto Front Street and one with a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River. With friendly, excellent service and a fun, inviting atmosphere, expect to have your expectations exceeded at Fat Tony’s. Find The Flavor…..Craft Beer, Craft Pizza!

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Thursday 11 am10 pm; Fri.-Sat., 11 am-Midnight; Sun., noon-10 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.fatpub.com ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials until 3pm and late night menu from 11pm until closing.

SLICE OF LIFE “Slice” has become a home away from home for tourists and locals alike. Our menu includes salads, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, homemade soups, subs and, of course, pizza. We only serve the freshest and highestquality 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!

Yoshi Sushi Bar and Japanese Cuisine is offering something the greater Wilmington area has never seen before: True New York Style Sushi to Wilmington, with classic sushi and sashimi, as well as traditional rolls and some unique Yoshi Creations.

We offer a variety of items, including Poke Bowls and Hibachi - and we also are introducing true Japanese Ramen Bowls! Come try it today!

Happy Hour Sun.-Thur., 4-6pm.

Featuring discounted appetizers and select sushi rolls!

Regularly priced menu items only

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

260 Racine Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 799-6799 Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11am - 10pm Sunday 12pm - 10pm encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 27

■ WEBSITE: www.grabslice.com FREDDIE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Freddie’s Restaurant has been serving the Pleasure Island area since 1995. While well-known for their large portions of classic Italian food, anyone who has dined at Freddie’s will recommend their staple item: a large bonein pork chop. It’s cut extra thick from the center and has become the signature dish, served in a variety of ways, such as with cherry peppers and balsamic glaze. With traditional red -and-white-checkered tablecloths, Frank Sinatra playing in the background, Freddie’s has the reputation as one of the area’s most romantic eateries.

And they’re open year-round, seven days a week at 4:30 p.m. Call for reservations for parties of five or more. 111 K Ave., (910) 458-5979 ■ SERVING DINNER: Opens daily, 4:30 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Kure Beach ■ WEBSITE: www.freddiesrestaurant.com A TASTE OF ITALY Looking for authentic Italian cuisine in the Port City?

Look no further than A Taste of Italy Deli. Brothers, Tommy and Chris Guarino, and partner Craig Berner, have been serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner to local and visiting diners for twenty years. The recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, and after one bite you feel like you’re in your mamas’ kitchen.

Along with the hot and cold lunch menu, they also carry a large variety of deli sides and made-from-scratch desserts. Or, if you’re looking to get creative in your own kitchen, A Taste of Italy carries a wide selection of imported groceries, from pasta to olive oils, and everything in between. And last but certainly not least, allow them to help you make any occasion become a delicious Italian experience with their catering or call ahead ordering.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Friday 8:00am-8:00pm, Saturday 8:30am-7:00pm, Sunday 9:30am-4:30pm

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.atasteofitalydeli.com ■ FEATURING: Sclafani goods, Polly-O cheese, Ferrara Torrone and much, much more!

MEXICAN LA COSTA MEXICAN RESTAURANT With three locations to serve Wilmingtonians, La Costa is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m with lunch specials. Their full dinner menu (from 3 p.m. on) offers the best in Mexican cuisine across the city. From top-sellers, like fajitas, quesadillas and burritos, to chef’s specialty items, like molcajete or borrego, a taste of familiar and exotic can be enjoyed.

All of La Costa’s pico de gallo, guacamole, salsas, chilechipotle, enchilada and burrito sauces are made in house daily. Add to it a 16-ounce margarita, which is only $4.95 on Mondays and Tuesdays at all locations, and every meal is complete.

Serving the Port City since1996, folks can dine indoors at the Oleander and both Market Street locations, or dine alfresco at both Market Street locations. 3617 Market St.; 8024 Unit 1 Market St.; 5622 Oleander Dr. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs until 11 a.m. 10 p.m.; Fri. and Sat. until 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown and Ogden ■ WEBSITE: www.lacostamexicanrestauranwilmington. com LOS PORTALES Taqueria Los Portales has been open since 2006, and serves street food from their heritage. It’s a perfect stop for diners looking for a great traditional Mexican dinner, with fast service in a family friendly atmosphere! The variety of meats used to prepare their tacos is the characteristic that sets the taqueria apart from other Mexican restaurants!

1207 S. Kerr Ave. 910-799-5255 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Daily 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.taquerialostportales.com

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

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Café open: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.(salad bar open all the time). Market hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington in the Landfall Shopping Center ■ FEATURING: Organic Salad Bar/Hot Bar, Bakery with fresh, organic pies and cakes.

■ WEBSITE: www.loveysmarket.com

SEAFOOD

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

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

sammies. soups. salads. sides. wraps

28 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY Founded in 2008 by Evans and Nikki Trawick, Cape Fear Seafood Company has become a local hotspot for the freshest, tastiest seafood in the area. With its growing popularity, the restaurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to a second location in Porter’s Neck, and coming soon in 2017, their third location in Waterford in Leland. “We are a dedicated group of individuals working together as a team to serve spectacular food, wine and spirits in a relaxed and casual setting,” restaurateur Evans Trawick says. “At CFSC every dish is prepared with attention to detail, quality ingredients and excellent flavors.

Our staff strives to accommodate guests with a sense of urgency and an abundance of southern hospitality.” Cape Fear Seafood Company has been recognized by encore magazine for best seafood in 2015, as well as by Wilmington Magazine in 2015 and 2016, and Star News from 2013 through 2016. Monkey Junction: 5226 S. College Road Suite 5, 910-799-7077. Porter’s Neck: 140 Hays Lane #140, 910-681-1140. Waterford: 143 Poole Rd., Leland, NC 28451 ■ SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER: 11:30am-4pm daily; Mon.-Thurs.., 4pm-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 4pm-10pm; Sun., 4pm8:30pm.

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

raised Seafood. Organic and locally sourced produce & herbs provide the perfect compliment to our fresh Catch.

Consecutively Voted Wilmington’s Best Chef 2008, 09 & 2010. Dubbed “Modern Seafood Cuisine” we offer an array Fresh Seafood & Steaks, including our Signature NC Sweet Potato Salad. Appetizers include our Mouth watering “Fire Cracker” Shrimp, Crispy Cajun Fried NC Oysters & Blue Crab Claw Scampi, & Seafood Ceviche to name a few. Larger Plates include, Charleston Crab Cakes, Flounder Escovitch & Miso Salmon. Custom Entree request gladly accommodated for our Guest. (Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergies) 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 ■ WEBSITE: www.catchwilmington.com

List

DOCK STREET OYSTER BAR Voted Best Oysters for over 10 years by encore readers, you know what you can find at Dock Street Oyster Bar. But we have a lot more than oysters! Featuring a full menu of seafood, pasta, and chicken dishes from $4.95$25.95, there’s something for everyone at Dock Street.

You’ll have a great time eating in our “Bohemian-Chic” atmosphere, where you’ll feel just as comfort able in flip flops as you would in a business suit. Located at 12 Dock St in downtown Wilmington. Open for lunch and dinner, 7 days a week. (910) 762-2827.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week.

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

■ WEBSITE: www.dockstreetoysterbar.net MICHAEL’S SEAFOOD’S RESTAURANT Established in 1998, Michael’s Seafood Restaurant is locally owned and operated by Shelly McGowan and managed by her team of culinary professionals. Michael’s aspires to bring you the highest 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 CookOff, Entrepreneur of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Encores readers’ choice in Best Seafood to name a few.

1206 N. Lake Park Blvd. (910) 458-7761 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days 11 am – 9 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach ■ FEATURING: Award-winning chowder, local seafood and more!

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.OceanicRestaurant.com THE PILOT HOUSE The Pilot House Restaurant is Wilmington’s premier seafood and steak house with a touch of the South. We spe-

Enjoy a colorful & unique dining experience

Fresh local avors with a little Latin heat in a modern urban environment.

402 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401 | (910) 833-8894 | www.savorez.com Open Monday - Friday 11:30am - 10:00pm; Saturday 12:00pm - 10:00pm; Sunday 10:00am - 2:00pm encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 29

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

Downtown Wilmington’s Riverfront Farmers Market

DOWNTOWN - Each Saturday

N TIO A IC N PL OPE AC TE P B I A @ EBS W

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

STEELDRIVERS @ BAC OCT 7 - TICKETS AT BAC WEBSITE

- FRUITS - VEGETABLES - PLANTS - HERBS

- FLOWERS - EGGS - CHEESES - WINE

- PICKLES - KOMBUCHA - ART & CRAFTS

For more information: www.riverfrontfarmersmarket.org

encore 30 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

- MEATS - SEAFOOD - HONEY - BAKED GOODS

BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER GREAT OUTDOOR PATIO UNIQUE SPECIALS DAILY

250 Racine Drive Wilmington, NC Racine Commons 910.523.5362

SURF. EAT. REPEAT. WWW.BLUESURFCAFE.COM

cialize in local seafood and produce. Featuring the only Downtown bar that faces the river and opening our doors in 1978, The Pilot House is the oldest restaurant in the Downtown area. We offer stunning riverfront views in a newly-renovated relaxed, casual setting inside or on one of our two outdoor decks. Join us for $5.00 select appetizers 7 days a week and live music every Friday and Saturday nigh on our umbrella deck. Large parties welcome.

Private event space available. 910-343-0200 2 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 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: www.pilothouserest.com SHUCKIN’ SHACK Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar has two locations in the Port City area. The original Shack is located in Carolina Beach at 6A N. Lake Park Blvd. (910-458-7380) 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 sports team on 7 TV’s carrying all major sports packages. A variety of fresh seafood is available daily including oysters, shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab legs. Shuckin’ Shack has expanded its menu now offering fish tacos, crab cake sliders, fried oyster po-boys, fresh salads, and more. Come in and check out the Shack’s daily lunch, dinner, and drink specials. It’s a Good Shuckin’ Time!

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

■ NEIGHBORHOODS: Carolina Beach and Downtown ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials. Like us on Facebook!

■ WEBSITE: www.TheShuckinShack.com SOUTH BEACH GRILL South Beach Grill has served locals and guests on Wrightsville Beach since 1997 with consistent, creative cuisine—Southern-inspired and locally sourced, from the land and sea. Diners can enjoy a great burger outside on their patio for lunch or experience the unique, eclectic, regional dinners crafted by their chef. The chef’s menu highlights the bounty of fresh Carolina coastal seafood right at their front door. South Beach Grill overlooks the scenic anchorage on Banks Channel, located on beautiful Wrightsville Beach, NC, located across from the public docks at Wynn Plaza. The best sunsets on Wrightsville Beach! The restaurant is accessible by boat! Serving lunch and dinner daily. Limited reservations accepted. 100 South Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, (910) 256-4646 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open daily, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Mondays.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Homemade, Southern-inspired fine cuisine, with the freshest ingredients, for both lunch and dinner.

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

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

Dinner: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. Bar: 11 a.m.-Until. Menu Bar: 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every customer will receive freshly made-to-order sandwiches, wraps and salads, with the freshest of ingredients, all to ensure top quality. And when the place is hopping, it is well worth the wait.

Whether choosing to dine in or take out—we deliver— On a Roll is the downtown deli to enjoy homemade grub.

Come make us your favorite! 125 Grace St., (910) 6222700 ■ SERVING LUNCH: Open Mon-Sun., 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

24-hour catering available.

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

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,” coowner Gena Casey says. Gena and her husband Larry run the show at the Oleander Drive restaurant where people are urged to enjoy all food indigenous to the South: fried chicken, barbecue, catfish, mac‘n’cheese, mashed potatoes, green beans, chicken‘n’dumplings, biscuits and homemade banana puddin’ are among a few of many other delectable items. 5559 Oleander Drive. (910) 798-2913.

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

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

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

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

SPORTS BAR CAROLINA ALE HOUSE Voted best new restaurant AND best sports bar of 2010 in Wilmington, Carolina Ale House is the place to be for award-winning food, sports and fun. Located on College Rd. near UNC W, this lively sports-themed restaurant.

Covered and open outdoor seating is available. Lunch and dinner specials are offered daily, as well as the coldest $2 and $3 drafts in town. 317 S. College Rd. (910) 791.9393.

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.CarolinaAleHouse.com

TAPAS/WINE BAR THE FORTUNATE GLASS WINE BAR The Fortunate Glass is an intimate venue showcasing globally sourced wines, plus creative small plates and craft beers. The serene ambiance is created by the beautiful wall mural, elegant glass tile bar, castle rocked walls and intimate booths. There are wines from all regions, with 60 wines by the glass and 350 wines available by the bottle.

The food menu consists of numerous small plates, fine cheeses, cured meats and decadent desserts that will compliment any wine selection.

■ SERVING DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Tues. - Thur., 4 p.m.

- midnight; Fri., 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. - midnight.

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

Small plates, and wine and beer specials.

■ WEBSITE: www.fortunateglass.com

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

DAVID DIXON: JULY 12TH RANDY MCQUAY: JULY 19TH

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

www.elijahs.com

2 Ann St. Wilmington, NC • 910-343-1448 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 31

Waterman’s Brewery One Year Anniversary Party!

, y a d r Satu

July h t 4 1

HOME OF THE

Live Music

Massive Grass 2:00-4:00 The Spectacles 4:30-6:30 Phantom Playboys 7:00-9:00

“PINT & PEEL” HAPPY HOUR 3-6PM, 7 DAYS A WEEK (Hand Crafted Beer & 1/2 # Steamed Shrimp for $10)

1610 Pavilion Place, Wrightsville Beach, NC 32 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

Acupuncture Free Consultat io

n

e

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

W I N N E R

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

Reduce Reliance on Pain Meds with Acupuncture and QI Gong 4916 Wrightsville Ave. Wilmington NC 28403 910.791.1981 www.MckayHealingArts.com

encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 33

JUST BEACHY PLEASURE ISLAND

SUMMER 2018 CB SKATE PARK

TURTLE TALK

CASH BINGO

iving in a coastal community means sharing the beach and ocean with wildlife, so why not learn more about them? Threatened and endangered sea turtles nest and hatch on our beaches from May until October. Folks can find out how they can help protect them at the Wednesday night sea turtle talks through August 27 at 7 p.m. Presented by Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project, these talks are free at the Kure Beach Pavilion. For more info, email info@seaturtleproject.org.

ay it with me: B-I-N-G-O! Sure, it’s fun to play, but even more so when there’s cash involved, right? From the first ball called at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., each Wednesday night is a chance to win at Boardwalk Cash Bingo. Early bird games are $5, regular is $10 or both for $15, with prizes ranging from $25-$75. For an additional $5 bucks, folks can play Big Cash Bonanza to win $200. Come with daubers and don’t forget the tape, so those bingo cards don’t go flying across the Boardwalk!

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BOARDWALK MUSIC SERIES

BOOK SIGNING

,000 square feet of big and small ramps, rails and bowls await all skill levels for skateboarders. The Mike Chappell Park is 10 acres and for folks who would rather stay away from the ollies, there are two tennis courts, two sand volleyball courts, a basketball court, a youth basketball area, playground equipment, a dog park, baseball and softball fields, and a soccer field. The park is unsupervised so all skaters enter at their own risks.

I

ndependence Day weekend kicks off with L Shape Lot as part of Pleasure Island’s free weekly fireworks display and live music series every Thursday. Voted Best Band by encore readers in 2018, L Shape Lot mixes Americana, bluegrass and country.

Music starts at 6:30 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9 p.m. Check Facebook for weather delays, changes and updates.

G

o Sauce Yourself at 11 Boardwalk Ste. 130 will welcome James Beard award-winning chef Vivian Howard, also the host of the 2018 Emmy-winning show “A Chef’s Life.” Howard, who runs A Chef and the Farmer and The Boiler Room in Kinston, NC, as well as Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria in Wilmington, NC, will be signing copies of her 2017 IACP Cookbook of the Year, “Deep Run Roots.” Meet Vivian, take pictures, and take home a signed copy. Tickets: $40 at Eventbrite.com.

34 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

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KB FARMERS' MARKET

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pen Tuesdays, Kure Beach Market welcomes shoppers from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. until August 28 at Kure Beach Ocean Front Park. Folks can chat with farmers while they shop for locally grown produce. They can also meet the artists who hand craft goods and specialty items. It’s totally free to attend, though, you better bring cash to rack up the wares.

ROCK THE BEACH

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leasure Island Chamber will launch a new festival of music on August 25 called “Rock the Beach.” Folks will hear tribute bands of classic rock artists like ZZ Top, Allman Brothers Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Dance to Tres Locos singing “Sharped Dress Man,” Idlewild South crooning “Sweet Melissa” and Tuesday’s Gone balladeering “Free Bird.” Four local breweries will be on site serving up the best in craft brew. First band goes on at 11 a.m. Tickets are $23 and available at www.pleasureislandnc.org.

CB STATE PARK

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heck out 761 acres of natural beauty at Carolina Beach State Park’s hiking trails, camping areas and views of the Cape Fear River. The park hosts the best fishing spots and opportunities to scout the rare Venus flytrap—native only to a 60-mile radius of Carolina Beach. Another unique feature of the park is Sugarloaf, a 50foot sand dune located near the bank of the Cape Fear River, where over 5,000 troops camped during the Civil War.

Bringing healthy and clean food to CB.

Monday: Kayak Tours

Head to Zeke’s Island $40/person (Single and tandem available)

Tuesday: Surfboard Any size, $12

Wednesday: Kayaks Single, $30 • Tandem, $45

Thursday: Paddleboards $30

Friday: Fat Tire Baja Cruz Beach bikes, $10

HAVE SOME FUN IN THE SUN!

Show this ad or mention the daily special prior to rental to receive above discounts! Not available for free delivery!

910-458-4747 • pleasureislandrentals.com • 2 N Lake Park Blvd.

No d oo fried rfe he !

• Breakfast • Wraps • Flatbreads • Salads • Paninis

• Juice Bar • Whole Foods • Vegetarian • • Vegan • Gluten-free •

Also serving Beer • Wine • Champange

GRANNY’S COUNTRY KITCHEN

Omelet Specials Fried Green Tomatoes French Toast Club Mealoaf Sundae Senior & Kids Menu Wraps and More

1301 S. Lake Park Blvd. • Carolina Beach, NC 910-458-0515 • grannyscarolinabeach.com Open 6am - 2pm daily encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 35

JUST BEACHY WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH

SUMMER 2018 PC YOUNG PROS

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ort City Young Professionals will host their monthly meetup at True Blue Butcher and Table (encore’s Deal of the Week, page 9) on July 12, 5:30 p.m. The group welcomes local business folk to mix and mingle, with free appetizers and cash bar. Free swag will be given out by sponsor Live Oak Dental, plus raffle prizes. All ages are welcome; bring business cards! Free to attend, but those interested in becoming a PCYP member can do so at pcyp.thrivecart. com/annual-membership.

INSHORE CHALLENGE

W

ho can catch the biggest flounder and red drum? Fisherman’s Post presents the Wrightsville Beach Inshore Challenge, July 27 - 28. Entry fee: $125 per boat before July 16; $150 per boat after July 16. Wilmington Elks will be the beneficiary of proceeds from tournatment.

For details and schedule, go to fishermanspost.com/tournaments/wbic

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SUNSET PADDLE SERIES

E

BOATING SAFETY COURSE

njoy a beautiful sunset while on your paddleboard. The Sunset Paddle Series at Blockade Runner Beach Resort in Wrightsville Beach, NC, is a free, familyfriendly event that’s appropriate for all ages and skill levels. Experienced paddleboard instructors available for tutorials. Bring your own board or rent one. Takes place weekly on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. through August.

he U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will host a beginner boating class on July 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Marine Max, 130 Short St. The class with give participants the knowledge needed to obtain a boat license or safety certificate for the state of North Carolina. More info can be found at www.marinemax.com/events/classes

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WB FARMERS' MARKET

O’NEILL SWEETWATER PRO-AM

LUMINA DAZE

GNOME ART EXHIBIT re you ready for a gnome invasion?

Historic Airlie Gardens will be transformed into an art exhibit come July 6, with giant 5-foot gnomes (yes, you read that right) peppered throughout the maincured landscape. Whether or not these guys will be into mischief is yet to be determined, but the fiberglass gnomes will be artistically decorated and adorned by local artists. Cost is $3 to $9 during garden hours.

E

very Monday through October 29, at the Wrightsville Beach Municipal Grounds, food vendors, alongside arts and craft vendors, line up to sell their wares at the WB Farmers’ Market. Bring cash to enjoy treats from Great Harvest Bread Company, Panacea Brewing Company, Sea Love Sea Salt, Shipwrecked Seasonings, 2 Chicks with Scents, Alchemy Ranch and many others!

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ome August 17-19, Wrightsville Beach will welcome the East Coast’s second largest surfing contest. Amateurs and pros alike will attend the three-day event (past competitors include Rob Machado, Fisher Heverly and Avon Cormican).

As part of the event, live bands often play WB Park on Saturday, and arts and craft vendors set up, alongside a kids’ zone. Find out more on the event Facebook page.

A

ugust may be winding down the summer, but it’s also still hot to trot with the annual Lumina Daze celebration slated for the 26, 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Taking place at Blockade Runner, the event hosts a swing contest, live music from Wilmington Big Band, Dixieland All-Stars, and beach music with The Imitations. It’s the annual fundraiser for Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, with tickets only costing $35. More info can be found at wbmuseumofhistory.com/events/lumina-daze.

MOCHA FREEZE A handcrafted drink made with Ghirardelli chocolate, cream and fresh espresso shots.

Blended and topped with homemade whip cream.

Kids Eat Free! with purchase of adult entree

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

P calzo izza, pa and nes, sa sta, m hom e de mies, liver y!

5120 S. College Rd. • 910-792-0000 Monkey Junction, Carolina Beach 3501 Oleander Dr. #2 • (910)228-5999 UNCW, Downtown and Market Street

W NO NG! I R I H 7041 Wrightsville Ave. • (910)679-8386

Now Open

Wrightsville Beach

Mon.-Thurs. 11 am- 9 pm Fri. & Sat. 11 am - 10 pm Sun. 11:30 am - 9 pm ORDER ONLINE: http://antoniospizzaandpasta.com encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 37

EXTRA>>FACT OR FICTION

SINGING IN THE DEAD OF NIGHT: Chapter 14: Why must it drift away and die?

BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

“I

feel like a Mafia Don,” Kitty muttered to herself. She spent all day on the phone trying to track down anyone who could tell her where Hank Reims or Stan Cramer could be. Both had vanished into thin air. Fled the city? Probably.

Stan was the actor holding the gun when Jeffrey Chen was shot and Hank was his stunt double and childhood friend.

Both had good reason to avoid reporters right now, and even if she was suddenly a freelance reporter, she was very much still on the story, Kitty reminded herself. Jeffrey’s mother held both actors, along with 12 other people in the lawsuit, responsible for her son’s death. Kitty needed to find them, to talk to them, and fast—before another reporter got to them.

The far-reaching phone operation she had put in motion turned up nothing.

Some vague excuses, some even vaguer promises to let either know she was trying to get in touch, if anyone saw them.

She stretched backward in her desk chair and pressed her shoulder blades into the ridge of the chair. She ran her hands over the desk. It had been her eighth Christmas present, white and now scuffed, but at the time it had been beautiful: flourishes cut out with a scroll saw at the legs and drawer handles that looked like something out of a Victorian novel. The nicks and stains now were all fond memories: the stain from when her first fountain pen leaked, the nail polish, the etching of initials into the wood during the long nights her teenager’s heart pined for unrequited love. This desk had seen her through so many ups and downs.

Now it was seeing her through trying to recreate her crumbling life and career. Some self-help books recommended getting an adult desk, but Kitty reasoned this desk was like an old soldier in the battle of her life. Do you retire the old war horse just because it survived? Wasn’t that a sign of victory in itself?

.com

! s l a de

The producers and director had gotten on airplanes and fled as soon as they could. Best of luck trying to get through the layers of people they had to protect them.

The actors were scattered across the U.S. but most other actors weren’t named in the lawsuit. Just these two. Since the DA had decided not to press charges, the other cast members began to make the rounds of the late-night talk shows and signed on to other projects.

Hank and Stan had gone underground.

Were they together? Kitty wondered.

Probably not.

The animosity Hank had toward Stan radiated off him when everyone had sat vigil in the ER. Kitty half wondered if Hank had gone looking for the props master who had handed Stan the gun.

If you are trained to kill a man without leaving any marks and you feel racked with vengeance, how do you control that? Kitty wondered.

She knew from personal experience the desire to wound another person could cloud judgment and drive one to lengths unimaginable. She also had no actual fighting skills or any ego wrapped up in such an identity.

But Hank? Hank was a trained martial arts fighter. It was how he saw himself.

What was it he had said about how he always wanted to be Lee Chen, the greatest martial arts movie star in the world?

Instead he lived his dreams vicariously through his best friend. Lee’s son Jeffrey.

Now Jeffrey was dead.

How would I react if that were my psychological profile?

“Time to take stock,” Kitty mumbled to herself. “You can’t find the actors right now, but you do need to get a plan together to move your own life forward. Your mother is dead. Your father is in LaLa Land, refusing to communicate with the rest of the world.

You can’t leave him, he can’t function. Can you? Could you move out? Start over? Go somewhere else? Could you take him with you if you did?”

She paused and considered that point.

Maybe getting away from all these memories was what they both needed. Or would that kill her father? What about her? Would someplace else help or hurt more?

38 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

“You’ve lost your job,” she continued to herself. “You aren’t going to get another one in this market. If you want to get another job or even seriously freelance, you have to do something. Or do you want to leave writing altogether?”

She had written reams and reams of emotive teenage poetry at this desk—her first novellas and short stories. As long as she could remember, she wanted to write.

How many hours had I sat up with a desk lamp on low and filled notebook pages? Give that up forever?

The day Rick Dawes hired her at the newspaper had been the best day of her life. Never before had she wanted or loved anything so much—to have it snatched away from her like that was devastating.

“Kitty, the word is ‘devastating,’” she told herself. “You need to be honest with yourself. You are devastated. After Mommy and Jeffrey’s deaths, this is another blow, and it might be one you can’t survive. Is survival even worth it? Am I living? Am I thriving? Is Daddy? Are either of us doing anything worthwhile we enjoy? If I kill myself, it will kill him. There will be no one around to care for him, and he will have no one … that would be the final blow. Can I do that to him?”

She crossed the small room to her dresser and opened the sock drawer. She touched the bottle to reassure herself it was there. For years she had been carefully picking up and keeping painkillers when she found them: unfinished prescriptions from her wisdom teeth, her mother’s knee surgery, her father’s hernia. The last few pills rattling around forgotten in bottles pushed to the back of the kitchen cabinet.

She carefully collected and hid them for the day—the day she might take her own life. She held up the bottle and looked at the assortment of white nuggets.

A passage to freedom. To oblivion.

They sent a thrill to her stomach.

She both feared and yearned for certainty she could take her own life and be done with it.

She unscrewed the lid and shook a few into her hand. They were different sizes but all varying shades of white.

“Maybe I’m not a Mafia Don after all, but rather an informer who is permitted to

take her own life rather than be executed when she fails—because I am definitely a failure.”

She sighed.

“No one loves me. No one will notice if I’m gone. It would probably take Daddy a week to even notice I didn’t show up for dinner. What have I ever done that is worthwhile?”

Her hand was sweating with nervous excitement.

Could I do it? Would I do it?

“Jeffrey Chen dies while the camera is rolling and the world turns upside down. If I go ... nothing. Nothing will happen.

You are right. You are not a celebrity.

You are not on the cusp of your young life. You are not about to finish the breakthrough film that will launch your career.

You are not about to marry your one true love. None of those things will ever happen for you.

“I’m fat. I’m too fat. It is not lovable or attractive, and I am tired of being the second best that men settle for.”

She sat down on the edge of her bed and ran her hand along the ruffle of the eyelet lace bed set that had been her 16th birthday present. Her mother put up the lacy curtains and new cover on her bed while Kitty slept—so she woke up to the surprise of the new room décor. It was when she was going through her Victorian phase.

I am living in a world built around a child, she thought. I haven’t started an adult life. I haven’t set up my own household or made my own decisions. Everything, everything is a relic from a kid. No wonder I can’t get laid. I can’t bring a lover back here. It’s like my whole childhood threw up on my adult life. I have to make a change.

She stared hard at the pills in her hands.

“A change.”

Gwenyfar Rohler is encore’s fact-or-fiction writer for 2018. Her serial story, “Singing in the Dead of Night,” follows the death of a young movie star and the emotional aftermath that follows, as local media try to uncover the events leading up to the high-profile “murder,.” The story takes place on location in Wilmington, NC. Catch up on previous chapters at www.encorepub.com.

encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 39

HAPPENINGS & EVENTS ACROSS WILMINGTON

TO-DO CALENDAR

events

HDWM ARTISAN MARKET

Join us every Sunday until Oct. 28 along the scenic, historic Wilmington riverfront for a weekly artisan market featuring some of Wilmington’s finest artists and crafts people.You’ll find everything from fine art to functional with a diverse assortment of painters, illustrators, woodworkers, metal workers, upscale crafts and more! Located at Riverfront Park on N. Water Street between Market and Princess from 10am-3:30pm every Sun., weather permitting. This is a City of Wilmington event. Riverfront Park, 5 N. Water St.

merce; July 12, True Blue Butcher & Table; July Pleasure Island summers have begun with 18, Wilmington Sharks Ball Park (members-onweekly fireworks every Thursday an dlive muly event); Aug. 15, TBD; Sept. 19, Homewood sic on the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk Suites by Hilton Wilmington. pcypapp.com/ at the gazebo stage. Music starts at 6:30 folabout/join. lowed by the fireworks at 9. Follow Facebook MIGNONNE GAVIGNAN TRUNK SHOW for weather delays, changes and updates.

July 12, 11am: Mignonne Gavigan designer 100 Cape Fear Blvd. and founder Maggie Gavigan Smith to explore PCYP EVENTS and shop the brand’s Spring/Summer 2018 Free for members and non-members. A netcollection and must-have statement jewelry! working event often feat. free beer, wine, food, Inspired by the bright and beautiful Mexican and live music. Business casual; no memflorals and wildlife, the new collection offers exbership required. All ages and professions ceptionally made, wearable pieces in a variety welcome. Photography by Chris Brehmer of vibrant hues and unexpected textures. Learn Photography with raffles given out. Upcoming how to incorporate this season’s accessories events: July 7, Wilmington Chamber of ComSUMMER FIREWORKS BY SEA

trends into your summer looks and receive style advice on mixing and matching designs from Maggie herself! Mignonne Gavigan Trunk Show Event, 508 Bradley Creek Point Rd. HOOKED ON ARTS STREET FAIR

July 14 -15, 10am-6pm, Kenan Lawn. Free!

A collaboration between the UNCW College of Health and Human Services and the UNCW Lumina Festival of the Arts celebrates the healing power of creativity. Family-friendly festival brings together art vendors, food trucks, free entertainment in the visual and performing arts, family fun, and an opportunity to help the community. The festival aims to raise awareness and funds to support addiction-related services in the region. Proceeds from Hooked on Arts 2018 will sustain UNCW’s ongoing community partnership with LINC, a local non-profit organization whose mission is to educate and motivate youth to make positive life choices and to empower men and women returning from incarceration to be productive members of our community. Wanna volunteer? www.surveymonkey.com/r/hookedonarts. UNCW Kenan Hall, 601 S. College Rd.

FAMILY NIGHT

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

charity/fundraiser REMEMBER YESTERDAY FUNDRAISER

July 11, 6:30pm: Tobbot Films, in association with From The Heart Productions, will be presenting the latest teaser trailer for their Wilmington film project, “Remember Yesterday...

Remember Yesterday,” by JR Rodriguez, based in Wilmington with local filmmakers and actors. Also debuting music written specifically for the film by award-winning writer Bryan Putnam. Silent auction (Disney tickets, a boat cruise, Broadway tickets) and 50/50 raffle, along with snacks. Tables set up for investor info and a donation table. Donations are tax deductible. Free to attend. Ironclad Brewery, 115 N 2nd St.

music/concerts SUNSET MUSIC CRUISES

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

LELAND CONCERTS AT THE PARK

All ages! Bring a blanket or a lawn chair,

40 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

CROSSWORD

Creators syndiCate CREATORS SYNDICATE © 2017 STANLEY NEWMAN

THE NEWSDAY CROSSWORD

WWW.STANXWORDS.COM

7/30/17

Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)

TRASH TALK: In the ballpark

by S.N. ACROSS 1 Take exception 6 Gulf of Mexico port 11 Silver State citizen 18 Gaming house 19 Pop singer Carey 20 Smeltery delivery 21 Ancient chocolate drinkers 22 Ballpark trash 24 Ballpark trash 26 Merrie __ England 27 Double-curve letter 28 Vietnamese New Year 29 For example 30 Yorkshire city 32 Selects, so to speak 36 Believe It or Not! guy 39 Half of a 23 Down 40 S&L conveniences 44 Jacob’s twin 45 Big name at the Prado 46 Potter’s pal Weasley 47 Underling 49 NBA broadcaster 50 Plus-size supermodel 51 Barnyard beast 52 Bad review 53 Audit expert’s designation 54 “Please rush this” 56 Was understocked 58 Brewpub container 59 Uncompromising 60 Cocktail server 61 Does as told 63 __ excellence (superior) 64 Ballpark trash 66 Body art 67 California vintner 69 Opposite of “hawkish” 70 Manicurist employer

73 Age 74 Painter’s primer, perhaps 76 More than admired 78 Nick Jr. watcher 79 PR person 80 Livestock lunch 81 Escape 82 Felt bad about 83 Did in the past 85 Guided 86 Poetic foot 87 River of Spain 88 Money in Monterrey 89 Post-WWII alliance 90 List of slips 92 Trade org.

93 About 78 96 Brewpub serving 97 Away for a while 99 What to call a clipper 102 Repetitive learning 103 Ballpark trash 110 Ballpark trash 113 Lake Erie port 114 Tanzanian archeological site 115 Drapery features 116 Get-up-and-go 117 Genealogist’s concern 118 Surpasses 119 Not easily resolved DOWN 1 Stun 2 Are, to Pilar 3 Personal bearing 4 Full-length 5 Membership list 6 Narrative 7 Erstwhile Asian lake 8 Lose for a while

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 23 25 31 32 33 34 35 37 38 39 41 42 43 46 47 48 50 51 52 55 56 57 60 62 64 65 67

Dupe Sushi tuna Corn morsel Chip away at Went to the polls Aesopian insect Parcel (out) Mars alias Ending for eager Upper limit Velocity stat.

List introducer Mark of infamy __ Fernando Valley Freezing temps Something owned Ballpark trash Old timer Ceremonial splendor Strong cleaner Bookmark alternative Ballpark trash Glum Sudden obstacles Young regular on the ice Besmirch Summed up NJ hrs. in January Not fully in Bursts open Agile performer Unseen commercial “Watch it!”

Bungles Oakland’s environs With 65 Down, flimflam See 64 Down Greet the morning

68 Greeted the morning 70 Unpaid 71 Jury members 72 Supplement 75 Before now 76 __ mater 77 Person with bills 81 Nowhere nearby 84 Brother of Bashful 85 Part of some printers

86 89 90 91 94 95 96 98 99

“Once again . . .”

Surpass in smarts Weds secretly Speaker just before “Over the Rainbow” Validate Boston’s airport A Dow Jones Industrial Beefy entrée In footwear

100 Tunnel, essentially 101 SFO data 104 Screens before LCDs 105 CIA forerunner 106 Fútbol cheers 107 Boomers’ children 108 Irascible 109 Tofu source 111 French nobleman 112 PD alert

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

737 3rd street

n

La Costa

hermosa beach, ca 90254

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tel. (310) 337-7003

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FaX (310) 337-7625

Mexican Restaurant

16 OZ. MARGARITAS FOR $4.95 MONDAY & TUESDAY AT ALL LOCATIONS FOOD AND DRINK SPECIALS ALL DAY!!!

Open Sunday through Thursday until 9pm, Friday and Saturday until 10pm, Lunch Monday through Saturday 11am to 3pm!

5622 OLEANDER DR, 910.392.6006 • 3617 MARKET ST, 910.772.9000 • 8024 - UNIT 1 MARKET ST, 910.686.8210

www.lacostanc.com encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 41

beverages, and your friends and family! Local food trucks will be on site selling food!

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

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

OPEN-MIC AT TIDAL CREEK

Comedians, singers, songwriters, poets, yodelers! Come out the co-op on Wednesday night & show us what you got! Free coffee & tea for all performers! Mic is yours from 6 pm until about 8:45! Hosted by the always entertaining Bob Sarnataro, this open mic is a laid back, no pressure opportunity for performers of all kinds to stretch those creative muscles.

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

SUNDAY SCHOOL UNDERGROUND

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

DOWNTOWN SUNDOWN

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

Rain or shine; check Facebook for updates.

Riverfront Park, 5 N. Water St.

JAZZ AT THE MANSION

July 12, 6:30pm: Jazz at the Mansion at Bellamy Mansion in Wilmington, NC, features El Jaye Johnson & The Port City All-Stars. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers. Beer and wine available for purchase. Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St.

JAZZ WORKSHOP

July 16, UNCW Jazz Combos have garnered numerous awards over the years at various jazz festivals including first place for the best university combo at JazzFest U.S.A. They have also been invited to perform at various prestigious jazz festivals including the North Sea Jazz Festival, the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, as well as the Graz Jazz Festival in Austria. Jazz Workshop Faculty Show, July 16,t 7:30pm, Beckwith Recital Hall at UNCW’s Cultural Arts Building (CAB). Tickets: $6 Final Showcase: July 20, 7:30pm in Kenan Auditorium. Free. UNCW, 601 S. College Rd.

AUDREY OCHOA

July 18, 7:30pm: UNCW Jazz Combos have garnered numerous awards over the years at various jazz festivals including first place for the best university combo at JazzFest U.S.A. They have also been invited to perform at

ade, m y l h Fres acials for f organic mmer! su

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r u o h / $75 . uly 31 J h g u hro Good t skin types!

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Donnie Canady, owner of Tanglez, and Marcella Hardy, voted Best Esthetician 2018

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various prestigious jazz festivals including the atre. A young lieutenant relieves his captain North Sea Jazz Festival, the Montreux Jazz of command during a typhoon because the Festival in Switzerland, as well as the Graz Jazz captain, Queeg is a psychopath in crisis and Festival in Austria. This year, their performance commanded the ship and its crew to destrucwill feature special guest, Audrey Ochoa, Edtion. Naval tradition is against him, but testimonton Canada’s most prolific trombone playmony eventually reveals a devastating picture er, playing Jazz, Rock, Pop, Latin, Punk and of Queeg’s mental disintegration. Battleship Ska.Tickets: $20. https://uncw.edu/arts/lumina/ North Carolina, 1 Battleship Rd. Tickets: $32. concerts.html. UNCW’s Kenan Auditorium, 601 SMOKEY JOE’S CAFE S. College Rd. “Smokey Joe’s Café: The Songs of Leiber and Stoller” by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller will be presented July 13-15, and 20-22. Leiber and Stoller are the most successful songwriting team in popular music, and their golden age SOUTHERN FRIED BITCH of rock, rhythm, and blues is brought to the Written by Celia Rivenbark with Kevin Parker stage in this electrifying revue that blows the directed by Beth Swindell at TheatreNOW, roof off and brings the house down! Themes Through Jul. 28, Fri.-Sat., 7pm. Doors open at of love won, love lost, and love imagined are 6pm. Tickets $20-$46 with discounts for secelebrated in a night of pure entertainment niors, students, military and groups. Nee Nichguaranteed to give you a toe-tappin’, fingerols is a cooking show star whose off-camera snappin’, good time. The featured songs inantics would make a sailor blush! Add in her clude “Yakety Yak”, “Hound Dog,” “Love Pophilandering husband and two Kardashiantion #9,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Stand by Me” and like kids and you never know what’s going to more. Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St. Tickets: happen with this family. But when Nee’s rivalry $32. www.thalianhall.org. Shows at 8 p.m. with fellow cooking host Rose Ravenel heats Sun. matinees at 3 p.m. up, will the network be able to put out the fire?

DIARY OF ADAM AND EVE (Significant profanity and naughty talk, so be Keepin’ On Productions presents second prowarned!) Dinner and show tickets, served with duction, “The Diary of Adam and Eve,” at the a three-course meal, $46. Show-only tickets, Cape Fear Playhouse, July 12-15, 19-22, 8pm, $20. theatrewilmington.com. TheatreNOW, 19 or 3pm on Sundays. Directed by Steve VerS. 10th St. non, the play stars Brendan Carter and Susan THE CAINE MUTINY COURT-MARTIAL Auten. Adapted for the stage from the writings Live on the deck of the Battleship NC. Through of Mark Twain by Anthony David Lawson, “The July 15, Friday-Sunday, 8pm. Acclaimed play Diary of Adam and Eve” is both a humorous

by Herman Wouk based on his Pulitzer Prize and touching portrait of the world’s first couple novel about a court martial has been adapted as they experience creation, discover each by the author into a suspenseful evening of the-

theatre/auditions

Wilmington’s Best mediterranean restaurant 2018 Serving Greek-American dishes since 1994!

Spanakopita • Dolmadikia Gyros • Moussaka Seafood • Pastas • Chops and the best salads in town!

catering, parties and take-out availaBle

Monday-Sunday: 11:30am-9:30pm • 5629 Oleander Dr. 910-796-9636 • www.olympiawilmington.com

other, and explore the Garden of Eden, until the infamous apple and their fall from paradise. Follow them as they encounter love, joy, pain, and death for the first time, and face life’s best and worst moments, side by side.

Tickets: www.bigdawgproductions.org or 910-367-5237.

film MOVIES IN THE PARK

All ages on Saturday at sunset. Join us in the park and watch a family movie under the night sky. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, a picnic and your family, but please no pets or alcohol. Smoking is also prohibited on Town Property. Concessions will be available for purchase. June 16: Leap. Free, no registration required. Leland Municipal Park, 102 Town Hall Dr.

SUMMER MOVIES AT THE LAKE

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

July 15: Finding Dory. Carolina Beach Lake Park, Atlanta Ave.

MIDDAY MUSICALS

July 11, 2pm: A series of PG and PG-13 film screenings for families to enjoy this summer.

The films will all be musicals, because “Libraries Rock!” is the theme of Summer Read-

ing 2018. Attendance is free and no registration is required to attend. Audience members may bring their own snacks and drinks. 910798-6301. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St. SUMMER FILMS AT LIBRARY

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

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

art MEET LOCAL ARTISTS

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

WEIGHT OF WALLS

“The Weight of Walls” art show by Nathan Verwey now hanging at Coworx in The Cargo District. Open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm. On display through July 30. 1608 Queen St.

FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT

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

County, numerous venues participate. Full list: artscouncilofwilmington.org NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE

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

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

ART OF NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Art of Nature photography exhibit at the Wilma W. Daniels Gallery will display the work of three artists who have chosen unique ways to show their passion for nature. Exhibit closes with a reception on Friday, July 27, 6-9pm.

Additionally, the artists will host Coffee, Croissants & Conversation on Sat., July 7 from 9am-3pm. Incorporating photographic tools and techniques developed in the early 1800s ranging to modern times, Victoria Paige, Guy Pushée and Melissa Wilgis present three unique perspectives on nature photography.

Since the nature photography exhibit is taking place just steps away from the Cape Fear River, a portion of the sales will be donated to Cape Fear River Watch. Wilma W. Daniels Gallery (CFCC), 200 Hanover St.

CHELSEA LEA ART OPENING

July 11, 5pm: Chelsea Lea is a third generation metalsmith originally from Athens, GA. Playing with her mother’s plasma cutter as a child led Chelsea to studying Fine Arts at the Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, to the University of Georgia for a Jewelry + Metals BFA, Penland School of Crafts, and more.

Her newest collection, “Of Land and Sea,” is based on her experiences of coastal NC. Kickoff Chelsea’s solo exhibition while Catch the food truck dishes out fish tacos and more. “Of Land and Sea” will be on display through August 31.Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St. CHAMPAGNE TOAST AND RECEPTION

July 11, 6-8pm: Exhibit “Unearthed: Landscape paintings by Topher Alexander & Kirah Van Sickle” at PinPoint Restaurant along with our partnership with Checker Cab productions and local restaurants. Alexander is a printmaker, art instructor, and gallery director currently based in Wilmington, North Carolina. He has a passion for travel and translating the resourcefulness skills he has acquired while abroad into exciting new artwork. Van Sickle is an adventurer at heart. Her early years set a foundation for travel, exploration and visual storytelling. Her acrylic and mixed media works explore incorporating found objects and papers with the paint glazes. PinPoint Restaurant, 114 Market St.

dance CAPE FEAR CONTRA DANCERS

Come on out for two hours of energetic, contemporary American country dancing with live music by Box of Chocolates band—fiddle, percussion, guitar, dulcimer, bass, mandolin and more! Dress cool & comfortable, soft-soled shoes. All ages. 2nd/4th Tues, 7:30pm. United Methodist, 409 S. 5th Ave.

SPECIALS: Voted Best Fine Dining 2018

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

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WWW.RXWILMINGTON.COM 421 C astle s t . (910) 399 - 3080 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 43

CARDIO HIP-HOP CLASS

Adults in the Wilmington NC area are invited to join Ashley Cates’ “Twerk & Tone” method of having fun and getting in shape. “Drop-In” to enjoy this fun opportunity at your convenience, and only pay for the classes you attend. No adv. enrollment and no previous experience necessary. $12 for 1 class; $50 for 5; $80 for 10. $80. www.thedanceelement.com. 7211 Ogden Business Ln. #205

SHEA-RA-NICHI AFRICAN CLASS

Community African Dance Class with Shea-Ra Nichi the first Saturday through June, 10:3012pm, for a Community multigenerational African dance class. Open to anyone in the community to encourage those who may not be able to afford African dance class regularly.

No pre-reg. required. Sliding Scale $5 - $15 per person (by honor system). Shea-Ra Nichi at shearanichi@gmail.com or 910-474-1134.

Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 S. Second St.

BACHATA MONDAYS

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

ADVANCED SALSA

Step up to the next challenge as you continue to learn! You will review a lot of what you learned in previous Courses, but also gain plenty of new material as we build more and learn a turn pattern each week! As salsa basics become muscle memory, you can begin to pay more attention to the song that is being played and know when certain breaks are

coming up to play along! Wed., June 20-July 11 (no class on 7/4), 6:30pm-8pm. Individual $55 per course. Couple $85 per course. Beginner levels 1, 2 and 3 required. Studio Collective, 5629 Oleander Dr, Ste 106 SALSA WORKSHOP

July 11, 7pm: 1.5 hours long and starts off with the basic steps of this dance, moving into intermediate steps, and including some advanced steps as well! Come out Wednesday, July 11th for this workshop and learn this popular and fun latin dance with us! $15 per person, $25 per couple, $7.50 for military/students with ID. Babs McDance, 6782 Market St.

comedy OPEN MIC

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

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

COMEDY BINGO

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

Dead Crow Comedy Club, 265 N. Front St.

GRUFF GOAT COMEDY

On the first Wed. ea. month, Gruff Goat Com-

edy features Three Guest Comics Under a Bridge. No Trolls. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane PRIMETIME COMEDY

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

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

CAROLINA COMEDY CUP

Wed. 9pm: Comedy King of the Carolina’s, Louis Bishop, will be bringing the Carolina Comedy Cup to the Lazy Pirate again this year. Louis started this well-anticipated Comedy Show here over 6 years ago and it is now the longest-running independent Comedy Competition in the Carolinas. More than 50 aspiring comics will be competing for beloved CCC Trophy and a grand prize of $500. For more details on the show and how to compete contact Louis Bishop. facebook.com/louisbishopcomedy. Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill, 701 N Lake Pk Blvd.

LUCKY JOE COMEDY SHOW

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

DEAD CROW COMEDY ROOM

7/13-14, 7pm/9:30pm: Sara Schaefer is a critically acclaimed stand up comedian, writer, and producer currently based in Los Angeles. She was the co-host of MTV’s late night show Nikki and Sara Live. Sara has appeared on John Oliver’s New York Stand Up Show, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and Inside Amy Schumer. She won two Emmy awards for her work at Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and has written for Ed Helms’ Comedy Central special The Fake News with Ted Nelms, Problematic with Moshe Kasher, Not Safe with Nikki Glaser and Who Wants to Be A Millionaire. Her digital series Woman Online debuted on Seriously.

TV in Feb. 2017. Recently, Sara’s stand up show Little White Box debuted to a sold-out run at the 2017 Edinburgh Fringe Festival • July 17, 7pm: Eric Schwartz is a comedian, actor, voiceover artist, musician and content creator. In addition to television appearances on Showtime, the Tonight Show, Comics Unleashed, BET and his one-hour special, “Surrender to the Blender,” on Hulu, Eric is know for his popular digital stand-up clips, sketches and parody videos. He has been going viral long before social media existed and contin-

ues to deliver hit after hit to his growing and engaged online fanbase. Dead Crow, 265 N. Front St. IMPROV WEDNESDAYS!

Every Wed. you can join us at Dead Crow Comedy for Improv night. Cute Boys Club Improv gets the night started, followed by the Encore award winning Nutt House Improv. As always you can expect some cheap and delicious food and drink specials too! Admission is only $3, doors at 7pm. 265 N. Front St.

museums CAMERON ART MUSEUM

NEEDS NEW INFO • CAM Café open and serving delicious menu with full bar, 5pm9pm. Tues.-Sun., 11am-2pm; Thurs. nights, 5pm-9pm 910-395-5999. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St.

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM

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

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

WILMINGTON RAILROAD MUSEUM

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

LATIMER HOUSE

Victorian Italiante style home built in 1852, the restored home features period furnishings, artwork and family portraits. Tours offered Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12.

Latimer House of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible

We have issues....

get them every Wednesday

44 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

126 S. Third St. BELLAMY MANSION

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

BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE

18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmington’s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th and 19th century decor and gardens. Colonial life is experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen-building and courtyard. 3rd/Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. 910-762-0570. burgwinwrighthouse.com.

CAPE FEAR MUSEUM

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

Some of those fad favorites like the Rubik’s cube and 1960s Liddle Kiddle dolls are on exhibit along with toy figures from fast food kids’ meals. Explore toy history in custom label books. Play, create, and imagine in Cape Fear Museum’s newest exhibit, PlayTime! Engage with museum educators in these short, drop-in programs. Activities change weekly and may include puzzles, games, blocks, and more. Adult participation is required.

Fun for all ages! Free for members or with general admission • See NC through the eyes of Wilmington-born photographer Hugh MacRae Morton (1921-2006). His captivating images will be featured in the traveling exhibit “Photographs by Hugh Morton: An Uncommon Retrospective,” is now open at Cape Fear Museum. The exhibit is on loan from the UNC Library’s NC Collection Photographic Archives and will be on view through September 2018. • Camera Collections! With today’s smart phones and digital cameras, photography is everywhere. But until the invention of the camera in 1839, there was no way to instantly capture the environment around you. In less than 200 years, cameras have progressed from complicated contraptions only used by professionals, to simple boxes with a roll of film anyone could operate, to handheld computers that create digital images shared with the world. 86 cameras and 145 photographic accessories showcases changes in technology and styles, from the late 1800s through the early 2000s. www.capefearmuseum.com/programs. $20/ members; $30/non-members. CF Museum, 814 Market St.

EXPO 216

Exhibit feat. end-of-life issues. Enter Grandma’s House and address the elephant in the room. Pick up an advance directive. Review the History of Hospice . Contemplate individual responses of compassion in the arena.

Expo 216 gallerium, 216 N. Front St. Wed.Sun., noon-6pm. www.expo216.com.

kids stuff MUSEUM EXPLORERS

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

Free for members w/admission. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

MESSY HAND TODDLER ART

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

MAIDES PARK SUMMER CAMP

Half-day, ages 5-11. $15/week. Camp runs through Aug. 17, 9am–1pm (no camp the week of July 2). Activities include: arts and crafts, field trips, sports activities and more!

Pre-registration required: wilmingtonrecreation.com. 1101 Manly Ave., 910-341-7867

PLANETARIUM ADVENTURES

Meaghan Weiner at mweiner@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

ILM COOPERATIVE SCHOOL CAMPS

Wilmington Cooperative School is hosting Throwback Summer Camps like you grew up with. For kids ages 5-10, the camps include Nature Camp (June 25-29), Stem Camp (July 9-13), Art Camp (July 16-20) and Water Camp (August 6-10). $125/ week. Wilmington Cooperative School, 4830 Randall Pkwy.

INCREDIBLE INSECTS

July 11, 2pm: Cape Fear Museum presents this kids’ workshop on Incredible Insects! Children will play a fun game to identify key characteristics of insects and discover how insects communicate. They’ll take the compound eye challenge and make a fun insect model to take home. Free but space is limited. Register children ages 5 to 11 only on the calendar at www.

NHCLibrary.org or 910-798-6385. Meaghan Weiner at mweiner@nhcgov.com or 910-7986385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

KIDS CLUB: JELLYFISH

WB Museum of History welcomes kids to make their own pet “jellyfish” and learn about their anatomy, habitats, and historical cures for jellyfish stings. Free events every Wednesday fthrough August. They are educational events with a different theme each week, all held at the museum at 10:30am. www.wbmuseumofhistory.com/play-learn-at-the-museum/kids-club.

WB Museum of History, 303 W. Salisbury St.

MIDDAY MUSICALS

Main library in downtown Wilmington announces a series of PG and PG-13 film screenings for

families to enjoy this summer. The films will all be musicals, because “Libraries Rock!” is the theme of Summer Reading 2018. Attendance is free and no registration is required to attend. Audience members may bring their own snacks and drinks. Reference Desk at 910-798-6301. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St. KICKIN’ IT WITH BARTH BROS. CAMP

July 12, 5:30pm: Annual free football kicking camp hosted by Wilmington natives and NFL, UNC and Hoggard High School kickers Connor and Casey Barth. Instruction provided on the fundamentals of kicking a football along with strength and conditioning tips. Free tee shirt for all campers. Tom Barth: stbarth1@earthlink.net or 910-231-1181. J.T. Hoggard High School , 4305 Shipyard Blvd.

PRE-K MUSIC PLAY

July 13, 3pm: Miss Shannon is leading musical play dates at Northeast Library for families with preschoolers this summer! Play and music build early literacy skills, so expect finger plays, songs, scarves and fun! PreK Music Play is free and no registration is required. Shannon Vaughn at svaughn@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6303. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

ROCK SOLID FALL 2018 EVALUATIONS

Do you have a player that shows an above average skill set and would like to take their game to the next level? The Rock Solid program is designed to help kids maximize their ability and play the game at their highest level, designed to help kids become better baseball players while also teaching them how to become better individuals. Learn the

Cool off and enjoy an exciting full-dome film in Cape Fear Museum’s digital planetarium most Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons, 2pm. These family-friendly programs are fun and appropriate for all ages. Space is limited and adult participation is required.

Free for members of with general admission.

Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

MLK SUMMER CAMP

Ages: 7-12. Cost: $25/week Space is very limited. Camp runs through Aug. 17, 7:45 am - 5:30pm. Activities include: arts and crafts, fi eld trips, sports activities and more! Pre-registration required. • Teen Camp: Ages: 13-14 Cost: $25/week Camp runs through Aug. 17, 7:45 am - 5:30pm. Activities include: arts and crafts, sports activities, group/team building activities, leadership and service events/activities along with field trips. Reg.: wilmingtonrecreation.com. 910.341.7866. 401 S. 8th St.

SUMMER CAMPS

Come out to Coastal Athletics this summer for baseball, softball, or lacrosse camp! 8amnoon or extended stay, noon-4pm. $40/day or $175/week w/additional $20/day for extended stay. Includes a snack and drink for each child on a daily basis; t-shirt for each child who attends a full week of camp. Children who are signed up for extended stay must bring a lunch. (910)-452-5838. Coastal Athletics, 2049 Corporate Dr.

PRE-K ART TIME

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

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

• Chargrilled Burgers

• Vegetarian Sandwiches • Chicken Sandwiches • Homemade Soups • Oven Baked • Tempting Salads Meatloaf Sandwiches • Plus Many More Choices

ONLY DAILY $ 75 SPECIALS

8

Includes side order and a drink

Come see why the Star News said that “Tazy’s Burgers and Grill was above the rest” and gave us 3 out of 4 stars!

Indoor and Outdoor Seating Available

4107 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC (910) 397-2944 Open 11pm - 8pm Monday - Saturday www.tazys.com encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com 45

138 South Front Street, Downtown Reservations Encouraged 910.251.0433 www.littledipperfondue.com

Book your next bridal or baby shower in our private space Dinner Tues - Sun starting at 5pm, Weekend Lunch from 11:30am-2:30pm

46 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

game from coaches who know what it takes to get to the next level! We have the most experienced staff in the Wilmington area. Call to schedule a private evaluation, held through July with callbacks at end of July. 910-4525838 or info@rocksolidteams.net. Coastal Athletics, 2049 Corporate Dr. S. ECO ADVENTURE CAMP

Ages: 10-13, July 16 - 20, 8 a.m.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5 p.m. Cost: $250. Lunch not included. Deadline to Register: July 6. Register: www.halyburtonpark. com. Explore the wonders of Southeastern North Carolina through field trips such as mountain biking, hiking, surfing, and canoeing. Campers will learn to appreciate the wonders of Southeastern North Carolina and learn to enjoy the outdoors through these field trips. Halyburton Park, 4099. S. 17th St.

ALL ABOUT BUTTERFLIES

July 17, 10am: Educators from Airlie Gardens will explain the life cycle of butterflies, and children will meet live butterflies and caterpillars. The program is for children ages 5 to 12.

This interactive program is free but space is limited. To make sure your child has a seat, register on the calendar at www.NHCLibrary. org or by calling 910-798-6371. Max Nunez at mnunez@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6373.

NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

SUMMER READ ALOUD

July 18, 2pm: Miss Meaghan has been tasked with sharing the unfortunate events that occurred in the lives of the Baudelaire orphans with the children who visit Pleasure Island Library. Every month, you can pull up a cushion and listen as she reads from

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Bad Beginning,â&#x20AC;? the first book about the Baudelaires. Afterwards participants will engage in a craft or activity, in order to momentarily forget about the dreary lives of Violet, Klaus, and Sunny. Free program is open to kids ages 6-12. Space is limited and advance registration is required, on the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org or by calling 910-7986385. Meaghan Weiner at mweiner@nhcgov. com or 910-798-6385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

recreation/sports HARBOR CRUISE

Weds, 3pm: Set sail on the Shamrock for a cruise around Wrightsville Beachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the island which separates the barrier island of the beach proper from the mainland.

Locations of historical, ecological and cultural note will be featured. Learn what year the first buildings on Wrightsville Beach were built.

Additionally, learn about the different types of marsh grasses, shorebirds, and fish we have teeming in the water surrounding the beach.

RSVP rqd. $15-$25. WB Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

CIVIL WAR CRUISE

Sit back, relax and embrace the wondrous scenery of the Cape Fear waterways as we embark on this special cruise. Relax and enjoy the comfortable seating, sipping on your drink of choice, the afternoon breeze and all the relaxation that Cape Fear holds!There will be Discussion by our local Civil War expert who will bring the Civil War to life on the Cape Fear River. Seats are limited so we recommend re-

serving your seats. wilmingtonwatertours.net or 910-338-3134. Adults, $50; kids, $25. Wilmington Water Tours LLC, 212 S. Water St. WALK WITH A DOC

Join us the 3rd Saturday of every month at 9am for a fun and healthy walkâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;held at the Midtown YMCA. Each walk beings with a brief physician-led discussion of a current health topic, then he/she spends time walking, answering questions and talking with walkers.

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

DOLPHIN SUNSET CRUISE

Bid farewell to the setting sun with a 1 ½ hour Sunset Cruise. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours offers several versions of its famed Sunset Cruise to celebrate the sunset. All sunset cruises depart the Blockade Runner Dock.

Routes vary with season, weather, and whim on the Basic Sunset Cruise but may include Masonboro Island, Bradley Creek, Money Island or some other combination. Water, marsh, Shamrock, sunset â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a simple combination but very satisfying. Also from experience this is the best time to sight Dolphins in the bay. $35 per adult $15 per child. RSVP: 910-2004002/wbst3000@gmail.com. http://wrightsvillebeachscenictours.com. Metered street parking only. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

BIRDING CRUISE

Join the Cape Fear Naturalist as he guides you on an open water exploration of the Intracoastal Waterway, inlet passages, and sandy barrier islands of Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. Topics will include a strong emphasis

on shorebird identification and ecology, as well as coastal salt marsh function. $45 per passenger; RSVP. 910-200-4002 or http:// wrightsvillebeachscenictours.com. Metered street parking only. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

TIDAL CREEK TUESDAYS

Join Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours for an hour and a half boat tour focused on the ecology of local tidal creeks! We will discuss water quality, pollution sources, and the flora and fauna of the area. While discussing the functions of our salt marshes, we will assist you in identifying local plant and bird species. $45 a person; must RSVP. 910-2004002 to book your trip. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

SUNSET PADDLE

Free, family-friendly sunset paddle event, appropriate for all ages and skill levels. Refreshments provided by Watermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brewing Company. Weekly meetup at 6pm; event begins at 6:30pm. Experienced paddleboard instructors available for tutorials. Following the paddle, head over to the Sea Escape pool bar for live music, casual dining and refreshing drinks. Blockade Runner Beach Resort, 275 Waynick Blvd.

WED. NATURE SERIES

Bats, July 11, 8-9pm. Ages: 5/up. Cost: $5. Learn about our nighttime, bug-eating friends and discover some awesome adaptions of these mammals. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll dispel some myths about bats and find out why we like to have them around at the park! â&#x20AC;˘ Alligators, July 25, 6:30pm -7:30pm. Ages: 5/up. Cost: $5. Having changed little since the time of

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the dinosaurs, the alligator is a fascinating and amazing reptile. Learn about the biology and habits of alligators and take a look at a live alligator during this presentation by the N.C. Aquarium. • Birds of Prey, Aug. 1, 6-7pm or 7-8pm. Ages: 5/up Cost: $5. Get a closer look at live birds of prey from the Cape Fear Raptor Center. Several hawks and owls will be introduced as you learn about these amazing birds. • Night Hike, Aug. 8 , 8:309:30pm. Ages: 5/up. Cost: $5. Join us as we prowl the park after dark and clear up some misconceptions about night creatures such as bats and owls. We’ll also discover how these animals are adapted to night life. Prereg. is rqd. Register: www.halyburtonpark. com/910-341-0075. Halyburton Park, 4099.

S. 17th St. INSHORE BOTTOM FISHING

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

Try your luck going after flounder, bluefish and sea bass for two hours of fishing the teeming and beautiful waters of Masonboro Sound. Cost: $40/person (includes guide and all necessary licenses) Reservations required. Call 910-200-4002 to book your trip! www.wrightsvillebeachscenictours.com

EARLY FLIGHT EXCURSION CRUISE

July 13, 9am: Ideal way to spend an unforgettable morning. This has become our signature cruise and Captain Doug’s favorite.

Join us as we head up the Northeast Cape Fear River to the upper reaches of the black water system of this mysterious river. This close to 2 hour cruise is a rewarding experience as you learn about Wilmington and our

precious wildlife, while enjoying a peaceful morning ride on our safe and relaxing catamaran. Tickets are $27 for adults and $13.50 for children. Reservations recommended. www. wilmingtonwatertours.net or (910) 338-3134.

Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St. TRI-SPAN 5K-10K

July 14, 7am: Oldest three-bridge 10k on the East Coast—runs over the Memorial Bridge and across two more bridges before finishing on Water Street with a third-mile flat and fast run to the finish. Short loop down Battleship Road where you’ll run in front of USS North Carolina and take in the view of downtown Wilmington across the Cape Fear River.

New for 2018, a 5k course—a point-to-point course starting at the Battleship and ending downtown The race will provide shuttle/transport to the start line. 5k participants now will experience two of the three bridges of the 10k course, as well as the scenic downtown Riverwalk. Medals for all. https://runsignup.com/ Race/NC/Wilmington/TriSpan5k10k

classes PAPERMAKING CLASSES

Wed., 6pm: Adults explore different papermaking techniques so you can make each sheet of paper unique. All materials included, but we encourage bringing in some of your own materials that you can include into your paper—such as flat mementos and plants.

See samples on our Facebook and website.

Adult and children classes held on Sat., 2pm.

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

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

16 Cold Draft Beers

48 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

ART CLASSES W/LOIS DEWITT

Mon. Morning Still-Life Drawing, 10am. • Mon. Afternoon Watercolor Basics, 2pm • Tues.

Afternoon Watercolor, Beachscapes, 2pm • Wed. Morning Sketching, 10am • Thurs. Afternoon Still Life Painting, 2pm. • Sat. Morning Sketching, 10am. Sign up: www.free-onlineart-classes.com/wilmingtonncartclasses.html.

Sun Room Studio, 6905 Southern Exposure

YOGA 101

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

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

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

ADULT CRAFTERNOONS

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

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

MEDITATE + CHILL

Addie Jo Bannerman, Melissa Middlebrook + Jenny Yarborough every Tuesday from 7:308:30pm at Terra Sol Sanctuary. We’ll guide you through a 20-30 minute meditation to help you take a deep breath. Relax. Let go. Make space. After our meditation, we’ll make space

to chill. Find connection. Talk things out. Meet and greet. No need for Netflix. Let’s get real.

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

Wed, 4pm: Do you knit, crochet, needlepoint, or enjoy another craft? Got unfinished projects lurking in your closets? Bring a project to the library and work on it with other crafty people, on the first Wednesday of every month from 4-6 pm (no July date). This library group is free and no reservations are needed. Annice Sevett at asevett@nhcgov.com or 910-7986371. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

UPCYCLE YOUR CDS

Got a pile of old CDs stuffed in a drawer, binder, or garage shelf somewhere? Explore ways to turn those CD’s into works of art to decorate your home. Hands-on workshop is free but space is limited. To make sure you have a seat, register on the calendar at www.

NHCLibrary.org or by calling 910-798-6301.

NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.

CARDIO HIP-HOP

Adults with any level of dance experience are invited to join us for exercise, enjoyment, and stress relief at The Dance Element w/Ashley Cates’ “Twerk & Tone” method weekly cardio hip-hop class for adults and teens, Thurs, 5:45-6:45pm. All levels; drop-ins welcome.

Pay by the class or purchase a punch card, $12-$80. www.thedanceelement.com. 7211 Ogden Business Ln., #205

FACEBOOK BASICS

July 11, 3pm: Hands-on computer class at Northeast Library will walk you through the

basics of using a Facebook account to connect with friends. Tech savvy librarian Annice Sevett will cover posts, statuses, pages, comments, messages, privacy settings, and more. Participants should have an existing Facebook account and bring their log in information with them to class. The class is free but space is limited, so please register on the calendar at www.nhcgov.org or by calling 910-798-6301. Annice Sevett at asevett@ nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. CROCHET IT!

Crocheters of all levels are invited to a casual workshop hour at Myrtle Grove Library. Experienced crocheters can bring their current projects to work on, and beginners can learn to make a basic granny square and get advice about projects that will build their next level of skills. Limited amount of supplies will be available, so if you own crochet hooks, thread, and yarn please bring them along!

Hands-on workshop is free for adults and teens. Space is limited so please reserve your seat by registering on the calendar at www.NHCLibrary.org or by calling 910-7986391. Patricia Dew at pdew@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6391. NHC Myrtle Grove Library, 5155 South College Rd.

GET STONED

July 11, 7:30pm: A monthly workshop about the healing power of stones––tools found in nature can be used as reminders for selfinspiration, healing, awareness and empowerment. The first portion of our class will be guided by Monica Sevginy who will gift each participant with a selected gemstone or crystal of the month. Monica will lead us through a brief history of the stone, its properties + meanings. Jenny Yarborough will guide the second half of our workshop which will enable participants to place personal meaning behind the take-home stone. Using a handcrafted paper created by local artisans at Aluna Works, we’ll each set a special intention to place with our stone to serve as daily reminders to take home. No experience neccessary. Bring your own blanket, pillow or yoga mat. Neon Fox Studio, 201 N. Front St.

ANATOMY: THE OF WONDER YOUR BOD

July 13-15: Weekend workshop will take you an anatomical-based journey of the body, mind, and heart, and will teach you more about your body and yoga poses than you ever knew before. Each day details out a specific anatomical body region through lecture, experiential learning, and asana workshops.

713: The Wonder of Your Body—Your Pelvis & Hips. 5-6:15pm, lecture; 6:30-8:30pm, yoga. 7/14: The Wonder of Your Body—Your Spine, 9-10:15am, lecture; 10:45-1pm, yoga; 2:30-5pm, teacher’s workshop. 7/15, The Wonder of Your Body—Your Shoulders, Elbows, Wrists & Hands, 9-10:15am, lecture; 10:45am-1pm, yoga; 2:30-5pm, teacher’s

workshop. Register: https://bit.ly/2kwYRR6.

Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr. PUMP CLASS

July 16, 6:30pm: Come join this super sexy dance class that allows you to unleash a sexier you while getting a great workout! Cost: $10. Stiletto Fit Studio, 6620 Gordon Rd. Ste K.

ALICE’S TABLES—SOUTHERN SUMMER BLOOMS

July 16, 7pm: Cape Fear River while creating a gorgeous centerpiece out of summer blooms!

Alice’s Table at a social flower arranging workshop at Board & Barrel, located in the newly renovated Hotel Ballast along the Wilmington Riverwalk. Spend a summer evening sipping libations, catching up with friends and learning something new! Guests will enjoy a wine tasting and glass of wine included with ticket purchase. Board & Barrel’s mixologist will provide a signature craft cocktail demonstration and our specialty cocktail will be available for $8. Restaurant will offer a 10 percent discount on food to attendees if they check-in on Yelp and leave a review with pictures. Board & Barrel, 301 N Water St.

FREEGAL

July 17, 1pm: Freegal is a music library, and New Hanover County Library cardholders can download five songs for free every week!

Learn how at this workshop at Pleasure Island Library. Freegal Music offers access to over 15 million songs and 40,000 music videos, with new songs constantly being added.

You’ll find everything from classical music to rap, pop, rock, children’s, country, classical, jazz and many other genres. Hands-on workshop is free but space is limited. www.NHCLibrary.org or by calling 910-798-6385. Teresa Bishop: tbishop@nhcgov.com. 910-798-6385.

NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.

lectures/literary BEGIN THE CONVERSATION CLINICS

Lower Cape Fear Hospice will host free Begin the Conversation clinics from 10-11 a.m. the third Fri. of ea. mo., Phillips LifeCare & Counseling Center, 1414 Physicians Dr. Free, 18 and older, will provide attendees information and resources to think about and plan for future healthcare decisions. Attendees will receive specific strategies for initiating conversations that can significantly reduce family stress and improve quality of care. Advance directives supplied so healthcare instructions can be legally documented. Jason: 910-7967943. jason.clamme@lcfh.org.

LET’S TALK BOOKS

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

WALK WITH A DOC

3rd Sat. of every month at 9am for a fun and healthy walk—held at the Midtown YMCA. Each walk beings with a brief physician-led discussion of a current health topic, then he/

she spends time walking, answering questions and talking with walkers. Choose your own pace and distance. Free, open to anyone.

YMCA MIdtown, George Anderson Dr. DISCUSSION AND DISCOVERY

Wed., 6pm: Discover women and femme identified writers! Come to our weekly book club and free write where no advance reading is necessary. Every week we will read excerpts from thought provoking essays, stories, and poems to expand our wheel house and continue our exploration of diversity. We will be selecting excerpts from books carried inhouse and delving into discussions on themes and perspectives that we may have grasped from immersing ourselves in these texts. Don’t worry, no prior reading is needed! With titles changing weekly and free writing during our discussions, Discussion & Diversity is not something you’ll want to miss out on! Athenian Bookstore & Lounge, 2231 Wrightsville Ave.

AVOID MISTAKES NPO LEADERS MAKE

Bill Crouch honed his fundraising skills as a Development Director at various colleges in the southeast, and then over 22 years as President of Georgetown College. A member of the National Board of Trustees for The First Tee of the PGA Tour, Bill serves on the World Golf Foundation’s Diversity Council. If he has a free afternoon, you’ll find him on the golf course, but Bill is happiest when in the company of his wife Jan, five children, and six grandchildren. ​Check out Bill’s bio at crouchandassociates.com. FREE for AFP members and sign up is https://www.signupgenius. com/go/70a0e44afa62d6-bill. Non-members, can register at https://co.clickandpledge. com/?wid=148999 at a cost of $20. Free for

EXPRESS YOURSELF! WRITING WORKSHOP

High school students express their opinions and sharpen their writing skills in this workshop group with Cassie Mannes Murray, an experienced high school English teacher who loves working with teens. Community service hours will be awarded for active participation.

Meets Tues./Thurs. afternoons from July 17 to August 9. Finished work will be displayed in the Library, and presented at an Open Mike the evening of August 14. Free but space is limited and registration is required, on the calendar at www.nhclibrary.org or by calling 910798-6301. Participants must be entering 9th to 12th grade for the upcoming school year.

Dorothy Hodder at 910-798-6323 or dhodder@nhcgov.com. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.

TEEN ACTING CLASS

July 17, 3pm: Teens learn acting fundamentals through improv games and acting exercises at Northeast Library on Tuesdays in July!

No previous acting experience is needed to participate. Interactive workshop is free but

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space is limited and registration is required for each date the group is offered. Register on calendar at www.NHCLibrary.org or 910-7986371.Jamie Harwood at jharwood@nhcgov. com or 910-798-6388. NHC Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

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AFP members. New Hanover County Public Library, NE branch, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd AFP PROGRAM W/BILL CROUCH

July 11, 9am: Bill Crouch honed his fundraising skills as a development director at various colleges in the southeast, and then over 22 years as president of Georgetown College. A member of the National Board of Trustees for The First Tee of the PGA Tour, Bill serves on the World Golf Foundation’s Diversity Council. If he has a free afternoon, you’ll find him on the golf course, but Bill is happiest when in the company of his wife Jan, five children and six grandchildren (www.crouchandassociates.com). Free for AFP members; sign up, www.signupgenius. com/go/70a0e44afa62d6-bill. Non-members can register at https://co.clickandpledge. com/?wid=148999 at a cost of $20. New Hanover County Public Library, NE branch, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

SEA TURTLE TALK

July 11, 7pm: Learn about threatened and endangered sea turtles nesting and hatching on our beaches from May-October and how you can help protect these magnificent creatures! The Sea Turtle talks are held at 7 pm on Wednesday nights. They run from June 6- August 29th (no talk on July 4th). The Sea Turtle Talk is free and located at Carolina Beach State Park Visitor Center. 1010 State Park Rd.

RACE MATTERS DISCUSSION GROUP

Group meets monthly to discuss racial issues in American society. Everyone is welcome.

At the July 17 meeting, 6:30pm, the group will discuss Chapter 6 in the book “We Were

Eight Years in Power,” a collection of essays

by Ta-Nehisi Coates, originally published in Atlantic Magazine. The chapter titled “The Case for Reparations” is available to read online at https://tinyurl.com/h9lezog, or participants may choose to borrow or buy their own books. Dorothy Hodder, dhodder@nhcgov. com or 910-798-6301. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St. LET’S TALK BOOKS!

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

clubs/notices WILMINGTON FENCING CLUB

Adults meet Tues/Thurs, 7:45-9pm, and Youth meet Wed, 6:45-7:45pm. Class is open to the community, beginners welcome, and all equipment is provided! Sessions are 6 weeks long and the cost is just $5 per class! Fencing incorporates agility, strength, coordination, balance, and timing. In fencing, physical ability is just as important as having a strong mental edge. Competitors of a fencing match wear protective gear including a jacket, glove, and head gear. Sport of fencing features three different levels, which are categorized by the type of weapon used in each level. The weapons used include the epee, foil, and the saber.

Fencing is an aerobically challenging sport. In

order to condition one’s body, initial fencing training consists of challenging conditioning exercises. Express YMCA, 11 S. Kerr Ave. ATHENIAN AT LARGE

Sun., 3pm: Athenian Press & Workshops is reintroducing its At Large series. Every Sunday, we will hold a town-hall style community meeting in which woman and femme creators (artists, writers, arts entrepreneurs, etc.) are invited to discuss current events. Provides an opportunity to connect with fellow creators and survivors of marginalization, and it offers a forum to use writing as healing. Each week the Athenian team invites its guest to participate in a writing prompt at the end of the meeting.

Following will be Athenian Yoga with Heather Gordy, who curates a practice that allows guests to decompress, explore creativity, and reflect upon the discussion (although both events can occur independently if guests cannot attend both). Pomegranate Books, 4418 Park Ave.

PINBALL THURSDAY

Every Thurs., 7pm-9pm, unlimited play for $10. Win prizes, and earn bragging rights. Put your initials on our Leaderboard Get a t-shirt or pint glass. The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

culinary FERMENTAL

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

FREE BREWERY TOURS AND TASTINGS

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

PORT CITY FARMERS’ MARKET

Tues., 5pm: Join us for a wonderful, exciting night of fun. Port City Farmer’s Market at Waterline Brewing Co. 100% local, 100% handmade. Shop among some incredible local vendors, artists and farmers. Support small businesses in your area. Fresh local produce, beef and pork products, sweets, pickled items, handcrafted jewelry and art. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Ln.

SHAKESPEARE BRUNCH

Shakespeare brunch, Sun., 12-2pm. $20. ($8, show only). Monthly featuring a greatly abridged reading of one of Shakespeare’s classic plays. Brunch and dessert with choice of entrée included in ticket. Drinks and gratuity not included. Portion of proceeds donated to Shakespearean educational outreach programs. TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th St. www.theatrewilmington.com.

FARMERS’ MARKETS

Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr, Thursdays 2-6pm, year-round, excluding major holidays. Support local farmers and artisans in the beer garden Thursday afternoons. Shop for veggies, meat, eggs, honey and hand-made crafts while enjoying one of the Brewery’s many delicious beers. Stay afterward for live music! wbbfarmersmarket@ gmail.com • Riverfront Farmers, Sat., 8am: Market features all local produce, products and artisan works. A seasonal, open-air mar-

50 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

ket located along the first block of North Water St. and in adjoining Riverfront Park in historic downtown Wilmington along the Cape Fear River. Locally grown and produced fruits and vegetables, baked goods, meats, plants, locally caught seafood, handmade artisan works, fresh-cut flower bouquets and more are available. 5 N. Water St. Church Of the Good Shepherd, 515 Queen St. CHAMPAGNE SUNSET CRUISE

Raise a glass to a beautiful sunset over Wilmington on our Champagne Sunset Cruise! Enjoy your complimentary glass of bubbly or visit the cash bar where you can purchase your favorite cocktails. Sit back and relax and let your worries float away on this hour and a half adventure. With a gorgeous sunset as your backdrop for an incredible cruise on the Cape Fear River, this is the perfect way to end your day in Wilmington! Surprise your sweetheart for a romantic night out or relax and reconnect with family and friends on this leisurely cruise.

Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

support groups WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP

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

ANXIETY / OCD SUPPORT GROUP

Group meets 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Building B. Christopher Savard, Ph.D., with Cape Fear Psychological Services, gives a presentation the 1st Thursday of each month. 3rd Thursday meeting is member led. Everyone 18+ welcome. 910763-8134

MS SUPPORT GROUP

Those with MS, families and friends welcome.

Meets 2nd Thursday each month, 7 p.m., 1st floor conference room, New Hanover Rehabilitation Hospital, 2131 S. 17th St., Wilmington (behind Betty Cameron Women’s Hospital).

Sponsored by Greater Carolinas Chapter, National MS Society. Details: Anne, 910-2322033 or Burt, 910-383-1368. New Hanover Regional Medical Center, 2131 S. 17th St.

LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP

Meets third Saturday each month. Free; dropins are welcome. Group provides participants an opportunity to receive introductory info about lupus, encourage the expression of concerns, provide an opportunity to share experiences, encourage and support positive coping strategies, and emphasize the importance of medical treatment. Guest speakers, DVD presentations and open group discussion. info@lupusnc.org or at 877-849-8271, x1. lupusnc.org. Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

PFLAG

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

COMING SOON Be on the lookout for these upcoming Deals of the Week

DISCOVER NEW MUSIC AT 98.3 THE PENGUIN PLAYLIST SAMPLE:

KELLER & THE KEELS - UNCLE DISNEY BOB DYLAN - TANGLED UP IN BLUE MICHAEL RENO HARRELL - SOUTHERN SUGGESTIONS EMMYLOU HARRIS - DEEPER WELL PETER TOSH - COMING IN HOT THE ROLLING STONES - SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL PRETTY LIGHTS - FINALLY MOVING GRACE POTTER - EMPTY HEART PARLIAMENT - GIVE UP THE FUNK BEN HARPER - WITH MY OWN TWO HANDS

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UPCOMING PENGUIN SHOWS:

G. LOVE & SPECIAL SAUCE (GLA 7/14) MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD (GLA 7/28 & 7/29 ) SOLD OUT! CHRIS ROBINSON BROTHERHOOD (GLA 8/3) THE MARCUS KING BAND (GLA 8/16) THE PENGUIN'S B'DAY BASH W/ THE TRAVELIN' MCCOURYS (GLA 8/19) SHOVELS & ROPE (GLA 8/24) DAVE MASON & STEVE CROPPER (GLA 8/28) PHILLIP PHILLIPS (GLA 9/7) TRAMPLED BY TURTLES (GLA 9/19) KALEO (GLA 9/20) RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE (GLA 9/21 AND 9/22) IRATION (GLA 9/26) MAVIS STAPLES (GLA 10/21)

STEEP CANYON RANGERS (GLA 10/26)

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

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July 12 - 29, 2018 Theatre, Concerts, Opera and More!

Lumina Festival of the Arts is a celebration of the performing and visual arts in the coastal South. We invite the entire Cape Fear community to join us on campus for these events!

uncw.edu/arts/lumina Kenan Auditorium Box OfďŹ ce: 910.962.3500

Accommodations for disabilities may be requested by calling 910.962.3500 at least three days prior to the event. UNCW is an EEO/AA institution.

52 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

tours CAM WEEKLY EXHIBITION TOURS

Cameron Art Museum allows participants to explore current exhibitions with Anne Brennan, CAM’s executive director, in a new series of public tours. Free for CAM members. Wed., 1:30pm. 3201 S. 17th St.

LITERARY HISTORY WALKING TOUR

Explore the rich culture of our talented Southern town with a 90 minute walking tour of the literary history of downtown Wilmington, NC. Visit “The Two Libraries.” Walk the streets of your favorite novels, and stand where Oscar Wilde did when he lectured here. Saturdays, 1:30pm, Old Books on Front. 249 N. Front St. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1282390

INSIDER’S TOUR

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

Free w/general admission or membership. CF Museum, 814 Market St.

GHOST WALK

6:30 & 8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted Wilmington. Nightly tours, 6:30pm/8:30pm. Admission. Water & Market sts. RSVP rqd: 910-7941866. hauntedwilmington.com

BELLAMY MANSION

Guided tours start on the hour; self-guided tours start at any time. Mon. is only self-guided tours. Follow curved oyster-shell paths through our lush Victorian garden shaded by 150-yr.-old magnolia trees. See the elegant main entrance surrounded by soaring columns and gleaming windows. Hear stories of Bellamies, as well as those of the free and enslaved black artisans who built the home and crafted intricate details throughout the house.

Adults $12; senior and military discount, $10; students, $6; children under 5, free. Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St.

MASONBORO SHELLING TOUR

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

assignment in the coming weeks—should you choose to accept it—is to explore and experiment with your entire repertoire of smiles. I’m confident life will conYour key theme right now is growth. Let’s dig in and analyze its nuances. 1. spire to help you carry out this task. More than at any time since your birthday in Not all growth is good for you. It may stretch you too far, too fast—beyond 2015, this is the season for unleashing your smiles. your capacity to integrate and use it. 2. Some growth that is good for you doesn’t feel good to you. It might force you to transcend comforts that are LIBRA (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) making you stagnant, and that can be painful. 3. Some growth that’s good Lucky vibes are coalescing in your vicinity. Scouts and recruiters are hovering. for you may meet resistance from people close to you; they might prefer Helpers, fairy godmothers, and future playmates are growing restless, waiting you to remain just as you are, and may even experience your growth as a for you to ask them for favors. Therefore, I hereby authorize you to be imperious, problem. 4. Some growth that isn’t particularly good for you may feel pretty regal and overflowing with self-respect. I encourage you to seize exactly what good. For instance, you could enjoy working to improve a capacity or skill you want, not what you’re “supposed” to want. Or else be considerate, approprithat is irrelevant to your long-term goals. 5. Some growth is good for you in ate, modest and full of harmonious caution. Cut! Cut! Delete that “be considersome ways, and not so good in other ways. You have to decide if the trade- ate” sentence. The Libra part of me tricked me into saying it. And this is one time off is worth it. 6. Some growth is utterly healthy for you, feels pleasurable, when people of Libra persuasion are allowed to be free from compulsion to baland inspires other people. ance and moderate. You have a mandate to be the show, not watch the show.

ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20)

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

You can’t sing with someone else’s mouth, Taurus. You can’t sit down and settle into a commanding new power spot with someone else’s butt.

Capiche? I also want to tell you that it’s best if you don’t try to dream with someone else’s heart, nor should you imagine you can fine-tune your relationship with yourself by pushing someone else to change. But here’s an odd fact: You “can” enhance your possibility for success by harnessing or borrowing or basking in other people’s luck, especially in coming weeks.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

You wouldn’t attempt to cure a case of hiccups by repeatedly smacking your head against a wall, right? You wouldn’t use an anti-tank rocket launcher to eliminate mosquito buzzing around your room, and you wouldn’t set your friend’s hair on fire as a punishment for arriving late to your rendezvous at the café. Don’t overreact to minor tweaks of fate, my dear Gemini. Don’t over-medicate tiny disturbances. Instead, regard the glitches as learning opportunities. Use them to cultivate more patience, expand your tolerance, and strengthen your character.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

I pay tribute to your dizzying courage, you wise fool. I stage-whisper “Congratulations!” as you slip away from your hypnotic routine and wander out to the edge of mysterious joy. With a crazy grin of encouragement and my fist pressed against my chest, I salute your efforts to transcend your past.

I praise and exalt you for demonstrating freedom is never permanent, but must be reclaimed and reinvented on a regular basis. I cheer you on as you avoid every temptation to repeat yourself, demean yourself and chain yourself.

tors syndiCate

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

I’m feeling a bit helpless as I watch you messing with that bad but good stuff that is so wrong but right for you. I am rendered equally inert as I observe you playing with strong but weak stuff that’s interesting but probably irrelevant. I fidget and sigh as I monitor the classy but trashy influence that’s angling for your attention; and the supposedly fast-moving process that’s creeping along so slowly; and the seemingly obvious truth that would offer you a much better lesson if only you would see it for the chewy riddle that it is. What should I do about my predicament? Is there any way I can give you a boost? Maybe the best assistance I can offer is to describe to you what I see.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Psychologist Paul Ekman has compiled an extensive atlas of how emotions are revealed in our faces. “Smiles are probably the most underrated facial expressions,” he has written, “much more complicated than most people realize. There are dozens of smiles, each differing in appearance and in the message expressed.” I bring this to your attention, Virgo, because your

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Emily Dickinson wrote 1,775 poems—an average of one every week for 34 years. I’d love to see you launch an enduring, deep-rooted project that will require similar amounts of stamina, persistence, and dedication. Are you ready to expand your vision of what’s possible for you to accomplish? The current astrological omens suggest the next two months will be an excellent time to commit yourself to a great work that you will give your best to for the rest of your long life!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

What’s the biggest lie in my life? There are several candidates. Here’s one: I pretend I’m nonchalant about one of my greatest failures; I act as if I’m not distressed by the fact the music I’ve created has never received the listenership it should it have. How about you, Sagittarius? What’s the biggest lie in your life?

What’s most false or dishonest or evasive about you? Whatever it is, the immediate future will be a favorable time to transform your relationship with it. You now have extraordinary power to tell yourself liberating truths. Three weeks from now, you could be a more authentic version of yourself than you’ve ever been.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Now and then you go through phases when you don’t know what you need until you stumble upon it. At times like those, you’re wise not to harbor fixed ideas about what you need or where to hunt for what you need. Metaphorically speaking, a holy grail might show up in a thrift store. An eccentric stranger may provide you with an accidental epiphany at a bus stop or a convenience store.

Who knows? A crucial clue may even jump out at you from a spam email or a reality TV show. I suspect the next two weeks might be one of those odd grace periods for you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

“Reverse psychology” is when you convince people to do what you wish they would do by shrewdly suggesting they do the opposite of what you wish. “Reverse censorship” is when you write or speak the very words or ideas you have been forbidden to express. “Reverse cynicism” is acting like it’s chic to express glee, positivity and enthusiasm. “Reverse egotism” is bragging about what you don’t have and can’t do. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to carry out all these reversals, as well as other constructive or amusing reversals you can dream.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

Poet Emily Dickinson once revealed to a friend there was only one commandment she ever obeyed: “Consider the Lilies.” Japanese novelist Natsume Sōseki told his English-speaking students the proper Japanese translation for “I love you” is “Tsuki ga tottemo aoi naa,” which literally means, “The moon is so blue tonight.” In accordance with current astrological omens, Pisces, I’m advising you to be inspired by Dickinson and Sōseki. More than any other time in 2018, your duty in the coming weeks is to be lyrical, sensual, aesthetic, imaginative, and festively non-literal.

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SAVEDATE THE

for the most delicious week of fall!

OCTOBER 17-24 2018 encore’s Wilmington

eat. drink. indulge!

FALL

RESTAURANT WEEK

Some of the Port City’s finest restaurants will offer awe-inspiring, pre-fixe meals prepared especially for this week.

Restaurateurs reserve your spot today! email shea@encorepub.com for info

54 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com

CORKBOARD Available for your next CD or Demo

KAREN KANE MUSIC PRODUCTIONS 33 year veteran Producer/Engineer

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

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with our huge menu that has over 70 food items Including our famous $6.99 Lunches & $8.99 Dinners

Classes offered in Jan., Apr. and Sept.

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Champagne Sunset Cruises

W I N N E R

Visit us on the Riverwalk!

212 S. Water Street

910-338-3134

info@wilmingtonwt.com

Complete Schedule: wilmingtonwatertours.net

BAR ON BOARD WITH ALL ABC PERMITS HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

Follow us

Come Down and Spin & Win

Live Music on our Sunset Cruises

Thursday thru Sunday • $27 Boarding @ 7pm • Departs 7:30pm What a great venue to hear Live Music....you have the wonderful Sunsets as your backdrop & truly wonderful music by local musicians.

Early Flight Excursion Previously Known As Black Water Adventure

Friday & Saturday mornings at 9am This cruise has undoubtedly become one of our most popular cruises. It travels up the NE Cape Fear approx 7-8 miles. It gives you a chance to get up close to ospreys & their baby chicks while enjoying this pristine part of the river. Captains Doug’s narration encompasses the history & ecology of this area, you will be educated & entertained at the same time. So come on board, bring your cameras & binoculars & prepare yourself for a great morning excursion. We also have the best Bloody Mary’s on the river.

Photos by Jeff Hall Photography

e

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

Tuesday & Wednesday • 27 Boarding @ 7pm • Departs 7:30pm

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BEST

FRIED CHICKEN BUFFET SOUL FOOD

WE ALSO DO CATERING! 5559 Oleander drive 910.798.2913

Wednesday-Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am- 8pm Closed - Monday and Tuesday Visit our website - www.CaseysBuffet.com 56 encore | july 11 - july 17, 2018 | www.encorepub.com