March 29, 2017

VOL. 34 / PUB. 39

FREE MARCH 29 - APRIL 4, 2017 encorepub.com

Eight Days of Culinary Bliss!

Spring Restaurant Week begins Wednesday, Mar. 29!

Cover food: Boca Bay, winner of Best Brunch 2017 and participant in restaurant week

ALSO INSIDE: Week four of Best Of 2017 coverage • Theatre review: The Last Encampment • Music preview: Hiss Golden Messenger

HODGEPODGE Vol. 34/Pub. 39

March 22 - April 4, 2017

WWW.ENCOREPUB.COM

event of the week

Friday, May 6 -1,119a.m.

Saturday, April a.m.

Herb and Garden Fair

ON THE COVER

Poplar Grove’s 25th Annual Herb and Garden Fair marks the beginning of spring with a two-day event featuring some of NC’s best herb and plant vendors, as well as local artisans and crafters. With lots of food, concessions and activities for the kids on Sat., April 1 from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., and Sun., April 2 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., admission is $5 and includes a raffle ticket for goodies. All proceeds benefit preservation of Poplar Grove Plantation. For more, visitpoplargrove.org.

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.

RESTAURANT WEEK, PGS. 32-33 Welcome to encore’s Wilmington Restaurant Week, Spring 2017! Dozens of restaurants are serving special menus for patrons from March 29 through April 5, including downtown’s Grace on 2nd (above) offering 2-course lunches and 4-course dinners for two. Photo by Tom Dorgan

M

MUSIC>> MC Taylor (right) of Durham’s Hiss Golden Messenger is opening for Jason Isbell this Thursday, Mar. 30, at CFCC’s Wilson Center. Read about his prolific songwriting process before the show.

Photo by Andy Tenille

D

Editorial Assistant:

Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com

Art Director: Susie Riddle // ads@encorepub.com Chief Contributors: Gwenyfar Rohler, Anghus,

PG. 8

Tom Tomorrow, Chuck Shepherd, Mark Basquill, Rosa Bianca, Rob Brezsny, Linda Grattafiori, Bethany Turner, Chris Pendergast, Emily Truss

Intern: Kyle Maples

The Dance Cooperative is hosting its seventh annual Wilmington Dance Festival this weekend, featuring co-op students and modern performances at UNCW’s Kenan Auditorium.

Courtesy photo

F

FILM>> Visions Film Festival is UNCW’s annual event, completely organized and operated by students for students, featuring young filmmakers and alumni panelists who have gone on to work in the film industry.

Courtesy photo

SALES>

General Manager:

John Hitt // john@encorepub.com

Advertising:

John Hitt // john@encorepub.com Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com Tiffany Wagner // tiffany@encorepub.com

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

Distribution Manager: Boykin Wright

Published weekly on Wednesday by HP Media.

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

PG. 20

INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • News of the Weird, pg. 6 • News, pg. 7 Music, pgs. 8-13 • Dance, pg. 14 • Art, pg. 15 • Theatre, pgs. 18-19 Film, pgs. 20-21 • Dining, pgs. 22-29 • Extra, pgs. 32-47 • Calendar, pgs. 48-61

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Editor-in-Chief:

Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com

<<DANCE

PG. 14

EDITORIAL>

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

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NEWS>>LIVE LOCAL

LIVE LOCAL, LIVE SMALL: Gwenyfar ponders the reality of set backs BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

WORKING THROUGH SET BACKS: Gwenyfar Rohler takes on historic renovation in her childhood home on Market Street, in preparation of opening it as a bed and breakfast in the next two years. Photo by Allison Ballard.

“S

o that is why I think my column this week is going to have to be about ‘set backs.’” I summed up the recitation of my day for Jock.

“Perseverance, yes!” He adroitly turned the tables on me. “I’m sure there is an appropriate Nelson Mandela quote.”

Or Shakespeare, I thought, flashing to the story about Mandela and the leaders of the ANC passing around a contraband copy of “The Complete Works” while at Robbins Island. “Cowards die many times before their deaths. The brave experience death only once,” from “Julius Caesar,”

was particularly important to the group while in prison.

on a project. I can’t imagine editors have changed that much since 1598.

I finally succeeded in getting a bath (on the third try), and after a bit of a soak and some reading of “Good Omens” by Pratchett and Gaimon, I decided to face up to reality, and have the decency to not mention the struggle to free a nation from systematic repression in the same conversation as a plumbing crisis.

“So what were you supposed to write about this week?” Jock posited after the bath.

But I do think Shakespeare must have experienced the pains of home preservation keenly to have written that line in “Julius Caesar.” He certainly understood the fear of missing a deadline or failing to deliver

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“The Defense Budget,” I answered. “And much like our foreign policy, I am currently experiencing a bit of a set back as far as long-term planning goes. So it is related— just not quite the way I had hoped.”

Jock chuckled and opened a beer. It seemed the only response. Because it is not often I admit a genuine “set back.”

So my day started with me picking a fight with my cousin Austin for no good reason.

Because I could. Because Austin is incredibly sweet-natured. Because that is unfortunately what we do with the people we love the most: lash out at them when we don’t mean to. But there I was, picking a fight with him about something that didn’t even make sense. I should have gone home and gone back to bed. Instead, Austin and I continued sanding plaster and doing the next steps of demolition to be ready for the plumber to change the valves in the bathtub.

Prior to noon, we set off a series of small sparks cutting expanded metal behind the plaster to get at the valve—and in turn started a small fire in the closet behind the tub.

(We put it out.)

“I think Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups would help,” Austin reasonably suggested, in response to my post-fire hyperventilation.

The table in the Butler’s Pantry is filled with sin: empty growlers from Front Street Brewery, a couple of six packs of some alcoholic fruity drink that appeared out of nowhere, and three large boxes of candy bars.

It is located directly below Austin’s bathtub.

The wall behind the table has been inaccessible for the last year with boxes of books piled in front of it (surprise!), awaiting a move to the bookstore. While Austin served us each Reese’s cups from one the candy boxes, I stared at the newly visible wall that was clearly bowing out, cracking and in some places stained. Brown.

“Austin, I think your drain is leaking.

Look!” I pointed.

Sure enough, a few hours later Jock stuck his hand through the soft tissue of the former wall. I pulled out more pieces, and soon we could see the culprit: a crack that turned into a hole in the toilet above.

I do not fear or run from hard work. I knew at the beginning of this project it was going to be a lot. I also live by the code of historic home ownership: “Do not open the wall— you are happier not knowing.”

We are about half way through an overhaul of the bathroom above the library.

(Hence replacing of the valve for the bathtub.) I knew I was going to need to do some work to Austin’s bathroom, but I had not budgeted for the project—either financially or with my time—until next year. I wasn’t expecting this kind of damage. To begin with, the interior of the wall is wet to the touch.

I don’t even want to think about with what…

It also means the dust and plaster flying around the kitchen area is going to be a nightmare to contain. To be blunt: This is a set back to moving the house project forward. Not an insurmountable one, but a real one—and an expensive one.

I cried.

I had a drink.

ally am flummoxed by politicians who vote not to protect it. And so that remains an ongoing battle: to have clean, protected drinking water in a first-world nation in the 21st century. But I can’t seem to break down that process into manageable pieces.

Yet, I can with the house and the bookstore. So that is what I am going to do.

Fortunately, Jock shares my life and bitesized pieces philosophy. Of course, his idea of bite-sized pieces is a little different from most people. The average homeowner likely does not consider a bite-sized piece lifting the back corner of a house with bottle jacks to replace beams.

“Really?” He gave me a confused and surprised look when I pointed this out last December during “The Great Laundry Room Rescue Operation” that consumed our winter months.

“No, sweetheart,” I shook my head.

Now, I’m working on a plan.

There always are set backs—and the journey to success is a long one. Somehow, with really concrete things, like the house and the bookstore, I can remember the journey is arduous, fraught, difficult, and lengthy. With the bigger things, like social change, I have a hard time sustaining the fight. I guess it is because it seems so obvious to me that protecting drinking water should be a priority for everyone; thus, I re-

I couldn’t resist adding how even our dogs questioned his sanity when he built them a make-shift bridge to get out the back door—because he removed the floor of the laundry room. (He didn’t remove it so much, as we all gave up the pretense of its existence when the water heater fell through it.)

Austin is going to use a different bathroom (obviously). I’m going to have a long

and thoughtful conversation about desired outcomes for the bathrooms. I am baffled that people like showers as much as they do. I mean here we are, looking at a beautiful 120-year-old cast iron bathtub designed to luxuriate, and people want to stand up? Why for gods’ sake? Instead of showers, let’s talk about jacuzzis!

One of the sacrifices will be my dreams of gardens and landscaping this year. The money allocated for that will have to go to addressing my former wall situation. All of this is manageable. And as Jock points out, it could be worse.

“Can you even imagine how awful this would be if you were working with a contractor?” he grinned. “At least you don’t have that.”

He’s right. Instead of someone who refuses to listen to me but still hands me a bill for work I didn’t want and don’t like, at least I can do this at my own speed. I can stop the project and look at it when I need to, and think about where things are headed. I can ask, “Sweetheart, you remember that brilliant thing you did to make an access panel with the plywood and hex bolts?”

And move forward. Always move forward.

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Saginaw, Michigan, defense lawyer Ed Czuprynski had beaten a felony DUI arrest in December, but was sentenced to probation on a lesser charge in the incident, and among his restrictions was a prohibition on drinking alcohol — which Czuprynski acknowledged in March that he has since violated at least twice. However, at that hearing (which could have meant jail time for the violations), Czuprynski used the opportunity to beg the judge to remove the restriction altogether, arguing that he can’t be “effective” as a lawyer unless he is able to have a drink now and then. (At press time, the judge was still undecided.)

FINE POINTS OF THE LAW

Residents in southern Humboldt County, California, will vote in May on a proposed property tax increase to fund a community hospital in Garberville to serve a web of small towns in the scenic, sparsely populated region, and thanks to a county judge’s March ruling, the issue will be explained more colorfully. Opponent Scotty McClure was initially rebuffed by the registrar when he tried to distribute, as taxpayer-funded “special elections material,” contempt for “Measure W” by including the phrase “(insert fart smell here)” in the description. The registrar decried the damage to election “integrity” by such “vulgarity,” but Judge Timothy Cissna said state law gives him jurisdiction only over “false” or “misleading” electioneering language.

CAN’T POSSIBLY BE TRUE

News of the Weird has written several times (as technology progressed) about

Matt McMullen’s “RealDoll” franchise — the San Marcos, California, engineer’s richly detailed flexible silicone mannequins that currently sell for $5,500 and up (more with premium custom features).

Even before the recent success of the very humanish, artificially intelligent (AI) android “hosts” on TV’s “Westworld,” McMullen revealed that his first AI doll, “Harmony,” will soon be available with a choice of 12 “personalities,” including “intellectualism” and “wit,” to mimic an emotional bond to add to the sexual. A recent University of London conference previewed a near future when fake women routinely provide uncomplicated relationships for lonely (or disturbed) men.

(Recently, in Barcelona, Spain, a brothel opened offering four “realdolls” “disinfected after each customer” — though still recommending condoms.)

Scientists at Columbia University and the New York Genome Center announced that they have digitally stored (and retrieved) a movie, an entire computer operating system and a $50 gift card on a single drop of DNA. In theory, wrote the researchers in the journal Science, they might store, on one gram of DNA, 215 “petabytes” (i.e., 215 million gigabytes — enough to run, say, 10 million HD movies) and could reduce all the data housed in the Library of Congress to a small cube of crystals.

An office in the New York City government, suspicious of a $5,000 payment to two men in the 2008 City Council election of Staten Island’s Debi Rose, opened an investigation, which at $300 an hour for the “special prosecutor,” has now cost the city $520,000, with his final bill still to come. Despite scant “evidence” and multiple opportunities to back off, the prosecutor relentlessly conducted months-long grand jury proceedings, fought several court appeals, had one 23-count indictment almost immediately crushed by judges, and enticed state and federal investigators to (fruitlessly) take on the Staten Island case. In March, the city’s Office of Court Administration finally shrugged and closed the case.

NEWS>>FEATURE

HOUSES DIVIDED:

Sister Cities Association hosts panel on Brexit, relates back to 2016 US election

I

BY: JOHN WOLFE

t is early in the morning on March 23, and I am sitting at a round plastic table in the echoing, cavernous chambers of Wilmington’s City Council. As I sip my coffee, I think, Perhaps tea would have been a more suitable beverage. The topic for the day will be England; more specifically, what caused the people of the island nation to vote to leave the European Union last June, in the Brexit decision.

Sitting before a small crowd are three panelists, whose Anglo-expertise far out-range anyone in the room—or at least my own, Andrew Terrell is a consul for government, prosperity and business affairs for the UK Foreign and Commonwealth office in Raleigh.

Dr. Paul Townend is a UNCW professor whose area of expertise lies at the juncture of pop culture and politics. Jim McLaughland, CEO of Axiall Ltd., is Skyping in from the comfort of his home across the pond.

The Brexit discussion is the main event of the annual meeting of the Wilmington Sister Cities Association, a nonprofit organization whose stated goal, according to their website, is to “promote peace through respect, understanding and cooperation ... one individual, one community at a time.”

We see McLaughlin, projected on a screen, as a still-life tableau in his private English space—a bookshelf, a clock, a lamp, two giant metal spoons hanging on the wall.

He launches into a PowerPoint presentation, “Who Chose Brexit, Why, and What Comes Next?” The decision to leave, he says, was a sovereignty vote, with 49 percent of voters saying “decisions about the UK should be taken in the UK.” Between the countryside and cities, folks from the countryside voted to leave—more so than city dwellers.

McLaughlin carefully emphasizes the divide was more demographic than geographic: Brexit supporters tended to be older, less educated and poorer than younger, highereducated and wealthier citizens who voted to remain in the EU. Next, Mr. McLaughlin details implications of the vote, by dividing them into: 1. economic (the pound has fallen 15 percent in value since the decision); 2. trade (the EU is responsible for over half of the UK’s trade activity); 3. political (there has been a conservative takeover in Parliament, with extremism on the rise on both sides of the spectrum across the UK and in Europe. Also, the Scottish government has announced intention to ask for independence from the UK); and 4. social implications (What will happen to 1 million UK citizens who live in the EU, or the

2 million EU citizens who live in the UK?).

Andrew Terrell, a soft-spoken, full-bearded young man, claims the main reason for the vote was “a sense of feeling that decisionmaking had shifted in a way that made people uncomfortable.” Furthermore, he states the “legitimacy of democratic institutions” had eroded in what he terms a “democratic deficit.” Thus rural people wished to see decisions about their lives made in Westminster, not Brussels.

“The EU was seen as an organization which primarily benefited elites,” he says.

The citizens of the UK felt underrepresented by their EU delegates in the same manner Americans might feel differently about their relationships with the ambassador to the UN versus their congressman. Still, he explains there was a high voter turnout, and the government has to respect the decision of the people. “We have to make sure the voters feel listened to,” he notes.

Dr. Paul Townend agrees uncertainty was the big story of Brexit. “This uncertainty about the UK relationship with Europe is the baseline, the historical norm,” he states.

“There has always been an ambivalence toward the continent. And there isn’t just one UK relationship with Europe—the Welsh relationship with Europe is different than the Scottish one, for example.”

There are even different relationships to be found with Europe between the variety of areas in England. And the UK’s relationship with the rest of the world has been very important.

“The UK is pulled in different directions,” Townend continues. Out of this, he predicts the UK and US relationship is “back on the table in all kinds of very interesting ways,” as we are both important players in the Anglosphere—or English-speaking world.

called Cambridge Analytica. The company uses psychometric analysis of data taken from Facebook and other sources to conduct “microtargeting” ad campaigns to sway voter opinion in unprecedentedly effective ways.

The campagins can attract 63 percent more clicks and 1,400 more real-life opinion conversions, using microtargeted Facebook ads than through other, older advertising mediums, according to a Jan. 28 article on Vice’s Motherboard site. Not to mention the demographic similarities between those who voted for Brexit and those who voted for Trump are very similar.

When the moderator opens the floor to questions, I stand up and ask for the panel to discuss similarties between Trump and Brexit.

“There are certainly close rhetorical parallels between the two votes,” Dr. Townend says. “Both votes were close—they could have easily gone the other way. The losing side in both Brexit and the US election claimed the other side played fast and loose with the facts—that they had been sold a bill of goods that the outcome of the election was somehow illegitimate. Now politicians have to figure out a way to rebuild consensus.”

Mr. Terrell chimes in. “These results highlight a need for each side to listen to the other. It’s so easy to retreat into our separate corners, but we have to have dialogue. We can’t have democracy without compromise, and ‘compromise’ shouldn’t be a dirty word.”

“There hasn’t been a person who ran for president in the modern era that hasn’t said the system is broken,” Dr. Townend says.

“But now it seems they really mean it—and people are voting that way.”

Now that decisions have been made, what does it mean to our Port City—connected

yet separated from fellows in Doncaster by the vast Atlantic? Andrew Terrell thinks the fact Wilmington is a Port City will play an important local role in the future of the two countries.

“Even though the UK has decided to leave,” he says, “the UK is still a robust market with a lot of chips on the table.”

“Prime Minister Theresa May and Donald Trump have much in common,” he continues, “and the UK and US should be able to strike a trade deal quickly.”

“Our two countries share a tradition of deep civic engagement, Terrell adds.

At a time when the future of both seems uncertain, now more than ever intergenerational discussion must happen in regards to what our social contract is, and how we can make our institutions seen by all legitimate.

“A courthouse does not a democracy make.”

Dr. Townend thinks that’s part of the reason civic organizations like the Sister Cities Association is important—what Mr. Terrell calls “interorganizational dialogue.” “Being a citizen,” Dr. Townend explains, “means you’re in a certain kind of relationship with the people you’re opposed with.”

McLaughlin finds optimism in the degree to which he has seen young people involved with these debates. “Young people should be involved in the decisions which shape their lives,” his voice booms from the hall’s speakers.

Voter participation was at record levels in the Brexit vote, which he thinks means people want to be involved—they want change.

He ended the meeting rather succinctly with a fitting quote from Winston Churchill: “Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others.”

“[As a] student of inconvenient populisms on both sides of the Atlantic,” he says globally we are are facing “a rise in neo-nationalism, in populism, in Trumpism.”

“These changes are real and transformative,” Townend says. “The rise of populism in the UK and the US are two halves of the same coin. Historians aren’t too good at the future, but we shouldn’t underestimate this movement.”

There are pretty striking similarities between the Brexit movement and the campaign which put Donald Trump in the highest office in the land. In my preliminary research, already some spooky connections existed: Both Trump’s campaign and the Leave.EU campaign shared heavy backstage involvement by a big data company

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ARTS>>MUSIC

BELOW THE SURFACE:

MC Taylor talks songwriting and touring with Jason Isbell erally, my rule is, if I’m not feeling something then I’m not going to put it out into the world. I don’t have any obligation to put something out that I’m not totally into.”

BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

“I

t was not as good as being a musician,” Durham’s MC Taylor, frontman of Hiss Golden Messenger, quips of his last full-time job as operations coordinator at Duke University’s Center for Documentary Studies. “I knew if I wanted to grow this thing, I couldn’t have a day job.

It was just too much to do.”

A prolific writer, Taylor is most often inspired and driven by what’s happening with his life. At this stage he supposes he has at least of couple of albums worth of songs.

He is preparing to record a new album in a couple of months, with his own “first draft” completed.

Taylor recorded and released four albums while still working full time—and with two kids at home. There never seemed to be enough hours in the day to dedicate to becoming a better songwriter ... and then to perform.

“I throw a lot of stuff away, though,” Taylor clarifies. “I take a little something from an idea and use it for something else. . . .

I have the songs [for the next album] and I know the way I feel about them, but I still have to get in a room with the other guys and start to work on them.”

“I had taken every available sick and vacation day I could ,and it was kind of like say ‘no’ to doing gigs or quite the job,” he explains.

Though it’s now a huge part of his life and career, Taylor won’t be writing records about the life of a touring musician anytime soon. He sees his work and related topics as being superficial, which wouldn’t produce songs audiences can connect to.

So Taylor quit the job. The decision was a tortured one. He endured much stress from it, in fact.

“But on my good days, I feel like I made the right choice,” he notes. “I feel like my work is stronger and more powerful and more potent now because I devote my whole life to writing songs.”

It was around this time in 2015 Taylor began writing what would become his latest record “Heart Like a Levee,” released in October 2016. Hiss Golden Messenger is now touring, and opening shows for Americana-rock singer-songwriter Jason Isbell and the Drive-by Truckers.

“Heart Like a Levee” features artists from Taylor’s circle of musician friends, like Tift Merritt, Michael Lewis, Matt Douglas, and others. The Cook brothers, Brad (bass, guitar) and Phil (keyboards), of Megafaun play roles as well. All based in the Bull City, they’ve collaborated on other HGM albums, like “Lateness of Dancers” (2014), and Taylor spent a lot of time on the road with them, too. Coming back together on “Heart Like a Levee” was natural.

“They’re dear friends and also phenomenal musicians, and really beautiful people who have helped me through a lot of stuff,” Taylor says. “They’re an important part of the sound of my records now for sure.

I think anybody that collaborates with the same people consistently starts to write for their voices. I certainly write for Brad and Phil’s voices in terms of what instruments they play.”

ON THE ROAD: MC Taylor of Hiss Golden Messenger is heading back to ILM to open for Jason Isbell. Photo by Andy Tenille.

While Brad played bass on the album, he also helped produce it. Taylor often wrote in directions he knew the brothers would be able to add color and bring to life in their own ways.

“Phil brings a particularly … I don’t want to say ‘vintage’, but he understands the way harmonic voicing works on a lot of records we like from ‘60s and ‘70s,” Taylor explains, “A lot of soul and gospel and blues—he’s really a student of that.”

However, Taylor’s songwriting process is more personal and solitary. With more time to dedicate, he often spends months alone in his home studio, writing. He does a demo before recording the actual album.

On teh one for “Heart Like a Levee” he plays every instrument.

“It’s not as vibrant as the one everybody knows, but it is more primitive and personal,” Taylor details. “The longer I do this, the better I get to faking it on a bunch of different instruments [laughs]—and the better I get at sort of sussing out the soul of a song in my house alone, which is a very important part of the process. If I can figure out what makes a song tick by myself, then I can explain to everybody else why it works

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or why it should work.”

It’s sort of an existential dilemma Taylor always goes through, too, as he tries to figure out the final cut. It’s more than finalizing chords, melody and words. Digging through the emotional landscape of it all can take a lot longer once in the studio—deciding what aspects of those early versions of songs stay and what goes or changes.

“There’s often a layer of other things happening,” he says. “For example, when you hear ‘Heart Like a Levee’ and there’s an instrumental line that was part of the song from the very beginning. That was something that made me know out of all the ideas and song sketches I have, this is probably the one I’m going to keep.”

While “Heart Like a Levee” is pretty close to its original draft, “Happy Day” is another tune he kept true to the original. It’s earliest version and final cut both feature vocals from fellow Americana-folk artist Tift Merritt. Still, Taylor finds himself unsure about when to walk away from a song.

“Often times what exists on early versions is very hard to capture if you’re not really cognizant of it is this impulsiveness and rawness that comes with a song being new,” Taylor continues. “The more you work at it and finesse it, the more in danger you are of losing its young spirit. . . . Gen-

“There’s not going to be a lot of common ground between me and someone that isn’t doing exactly what I do,” Taylor notes. “I’m generally looking to sing about things that resonate with people who are otherwise totally unlike me on the surface.

Then we all start to realize how similar we are. Even if [a listener] has no kids, works 9-to-5 at a bank, and might otherwise think there’s vast chasm between us, I would reckon we have more in common than we think. There’s a whole universe of things we’re both scared of and thrilled by that are the same.”

HGM will open for Jason Isbell on March 30 at CFCC’s Wilson Center and return with the Drive-by Truckers on April 19 at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater.

DETAILS:

Hiss Golden Messenger opening for Jason Isbell Thursday, March 30 Doors: 6:30 p.m.; Show: 7:30 p.m.

CFCC Wilson Center 703 N. 3rd St. Tickets: $39.50 – $79.50 www.cfcc.edu/capefearstage

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10 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

A PREVIEW OF EVENTS ACROSS TOWN THIS WEEK

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sunday Wednesday Miller Light Pints $150$ Coronoa/ 5 All$2Flat 50 Breads 1/2 off Nachos Corona Lite Bottles $ 50 $4 Bloody$ Marys 1 Domestic Pints Margaritas/Peach Margaritas 4 Pints $ 50 $ 50 1 Domestic 2 Corona/Corona Lt. $ 5 White Russians $ 50 THURSDAY 4 Margaritas on the Rocks Visit our $website Appletinis $4, RJ’s Painkiller 5

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LIVE MUSIC

5564 Carolina Beach Road, (910) 452-1212

FRI MAR 31 SAT APR 1 Ben & Heather Joan Burton Eclectic Mix 7pm - 10pm

Acoustic Guitar 7pm - 10pm

FRI APR 7 Overtyme

SAT APR 8 Mark Daffer

Eclectic Mix 7pm - 10pm

WEEKEND SHOWS: John 5 will be joined by local bands The Madd HAtters (above) and others this Saturday, April 1, at The Calico Room (107 S. Front St.) in downtown Wilmington. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Show starts 9 p.m. Courtesy photo.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29

Burlesque Show: Twirly Whirly Burly-Q (7pm; $10) —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223

James Jarvis (7pm; Free; Jazz Piano)

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

Zach Deputy and L Shape Lot Duo (9:30pm; $17-$20; Americana)) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.; 910-762-2091

Jason Isbell + Hiss Golden Messenger (6:30pm; $49.50; Americana, Rock) —Cape Fear Stage, 703 N. 3rd St.;

Open Mic Comedy (7pm; Cover TBD)

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

Trivia Night w/Party Gras Entertainment (9:30pm; Free) —Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

Pro Musica Series: ‘Out of Darkness into Light’ (7pm; $12-$18)

THURSDAY, MARCH 30

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

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

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

The Singing Butcher (6pm; Free)

Beats & Barritos: New Art and Music (7pm; $5)

Geoff Tate and more (8pm; Cover TBD; Metal, Hard Rock) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.; 910-762-2091

FRIDAY, MARCH 31

Piano Jazz with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)

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

Janelle James (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy)

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

Jesse Jewell (7pm; $3; Folk)

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

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.

Eclectic Mix 7pm - 10pm

1706 North Lumina Ave. • (910) 256-2231

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

Call 791-0688 Deadline every Thurs., noon!

encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 11

Karaoke w/ DJ Paul (7pm; Free)

Sunday Dj Pop-up Electrolounge (7pm; Free)

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

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

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

Open Mic (7pm; Free; All Genres)

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

—Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

ASG and A Bottle Volcanic (8pm; $10-$20; Rock) Show Tune Sing-A-Long (9pm; Free) —Throne Theater, 208 Market St.

The Fritz (9pm; Cover TBD; Rock, Funk) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

Liquid Culture & Friends (10pm; $10) $3.50 Red Oak Draft $4 Wells 65 Wings, 4-7pm

FEATURE FEATURE YOUR LIVE YOUR MUSIC LIVE& FOOD DRINK MUSIC, SPECIALS

FOOD & DRINK Call SPECIALS 791-

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

Call

noon!

791-0688

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

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

Sweet Sweet (10:30pm; Free; Folk)

Wednesday _____________________________________

KARAOKE w/Elite Entertainment 9PM-2AM • $400 GUINNESS

Thursday ________________________________________

TRIVIA WITH STEVE

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

Friday & Saturday __________________________

LIVE MUSIC Sunday

___________________________________________

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

WATCH YOUR FAVORITE TEAM HERE! 100 S. FRONT ST. 910-251-1832 LIVE MUSIC in the courtyard 7 days a week

MONDAY 1/2 Priced Apps 4pm - 7pm TUESDAY $2.00 Tacos (chicken, beef, and fish) WEDNESDAY $2.00 Off Dozen Oysters THURSDAY 1/2 Priced Wings

12 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

MONDAY, APRIL 3

SATURDAY, APRIL 1

Ladies’ Night ft. All-Female Entertainment (9pm; Free)

After Dinner Jazz Piano (6pm; Free)

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

Janelle James (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy) —Winter Park Presbyterian Church, 4501 Wrightsville Ave.

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

Karaoke with DJ Mic (7pm; Free)

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

Sat Night Contra Dance (7:30pm; $5-$10)

—Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St.

Cape Fear Blues Jam (8pm; Free) —Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

Stephen Evans (8pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

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

—Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.; 910-362-9666

TUESDAY, APRIL 4

Comedy Bingo (7pm; Cover TBD)

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

Cape Fear Blues Jam (8pm; Free) —Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

College Night Karaoke (9pm; Free)

—Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.; 910-362-9666

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

James Jarvis (7pm; Free; Jazz Piano)

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

Sylvia Johns Ritchie (7pm; $3; Piano) —Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379

—Goat & Compass, 710 N. 4th St.

THURSDAY, APRIL 6

The Fritz (9pm; Cover TBD; Rock, Funk)

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

Yo Trio Debut Concert (9pm; Free; Americana)

2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS

$ 00

—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

Gypsy Open Mic (8pm; Free)

Ukuleles Unite Concert (7pm; Free)

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

Night Idea (9pm; Cover TBD; Indie-Rock)

—Duck & Dive, 114 Dock St.

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

0688

every Thurs.,

$3.50 Pint of the Day $4 Fire Ball

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

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Deadline

$3.50 Sweet Josie $4 Margaritas

—Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.; 910-362-9666

—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

John 5, The Madd Hatters and more (9pm; $20$25; Rock, Eclectic) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.; 910-762-2091

Snake Malone & the Black Cat Bone (9:30pm; Free; Blues) —Satellite Bar and Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.

SUNDAY, APRIL 2

Chef’s Sunday Brunch with Live Music (10:30am; $18)

—Blockade Runner Resort, 275 Waynick Blvd.

Chris Frisina (6pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) Cole Swindell, Michael Ray and CJ Solar (7pm; $38.50; Country) —Schwartz Center, 601 N. Front St.

Open Mic Comedy (7pm; Cover TBD)

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

Trivia Night w/Party Gras Entertainment (9:30pm; Free) —Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

Firedrums (7pm; Free)

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

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

Crystal Fussell CD Release Party (1pm; Free)

Duran Duran (7pm; $68.50; Pop, Dance)

Organ Recital, Ronnie D. Wise (2:30pm; Free)

Piano Jazz with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)

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

Karaoke w/ DJ Paul (7pm; Free)

Music at First (5pm; Free)

Sean Thomas Gerard (8pm; Free; Pop)

Girls Choir of Wilmington (5pm; Free)

Tyler and Friends (10pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

—St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 16 N. 16th St.; —Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.; —First Presbyterian Church, 125 S. 3rd St.

—Wesley Memorial United Methodist, 1401 S. College Rd.

—Schwartz Center, 601 N. Front St.

—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St. —Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.; 910-251-1832 —Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St. —Duck n Dive, 114 Dock St.

CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTHEASTERN NC

SHOWSTOPPERS

UPCOMING EVENTS HEAD OUT WEST: Folks can catch The Wood Brothers on April 6 at The Orange Peel in Asheville. Photo by Tom Dorgan GREENSBORO COLISEUM 1921 WEST LEE ST., GREENSBORO, NC (336) 373-7400 4/11: Panic! At The Disco

PNC ARENA 1400 EDWARDS MILL RD. RALEIGH, NC (919) 861-2300 4/15: Red Hot Chili Peppers

NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE NORTH DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 3/29: Can’t Swim, Light Years and more 3/30: John 5 & The Creatures 3/31: Runaway Gin 4/1: The Travelin’ McCrourys and The Jeff Austin Band 4/2: Angela Winbush and more 4/5: Geoff Tate 4/4: Rusted Root and Nicholas David 4/7: Taylor Kicks

LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111 3/29: Blue October and Matthew Mayfield 3/30: The Travelin’ McCourys and The Jeff Austin Band 4/1: Runaway Gin 4/2: Super Duper Kyle and Cousin Stizz 4/8: Here for The Whyl, Northsiderocky and more

THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 3/30: The Flaming Lips 3/31: The Dan Band 4/1: Thursday 4/6: Kehlani 4/7: Kari Jobe 4/8: The Machine MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE., DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875 3/30: Los Redd and Acoustic Guys 4/6: Dr. Bacon, Freeway Revival and more DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 123 VIVIAN ST. DURHAM, NC (919) 688-3722 3/28: Steve Miller Band 4/1: Earth, Wind and Fire 4/13: Adam Sandler, David Spade and more

CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 3/29: Cherry Glazerr and more (Back) 3/29: Corey Smith and Jacob Powell 3/30: The Suitcase Junket and Dupont Brothers (Back) 3/31: Transportation, Bat Fangs and Sunnyslopes (Back) 4/1: Dinosaur Jr. and Easy Action 4/2: Lambchop and Xylouris White 4/2: Carrie Elkin and Danny Schmidt (Back) 4/5: Lorelei, Birth the Wretched and Antenora (Back) 4/6: Be Loud! Carolina (Back) 4/7: Carbon Leaf and Me And My Brother 4/7: North Elementary, The Wyrms and more (Back) 4/8: Dirty Bourbon River Show and more 4/8: Driftwood and The Genuine (Back) THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 3/29: A World Of Lies, REdEFIND and GnarlScar 3/31: Jack Victor, Zack Kardon and Bless Your Heart 4/1: Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors 4/6: The Wood Brothers 4/7: Corey Smith and Jacob Powell 4/8: Town Mountain and The Stray Birds 4/9: Gogol Bordello

MAR 31 ASG APR 8

COREY SMITH

APR 25

DOPAPOD

APR 26

JAMESTOWN REVIVAL

APR 29

PARMELE

MAY 4

ANDERSON EAST

MAY 9

COIN

SAT. MARCH 31 ASG

MAY 27 HINDER NONPOINT JUN 1

DELTA RAE

JUN 4

CONOR OBERST

JUN 24

OLD 97’S

SAT. APRIL 8 COREY SMITH

TUES. APRIL 25 DOPAPOD

208 Market Street • (910) 782-8939 www.thronetheater.com encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 13

ARTS>>ART

BEAUTY OF DANCE:

The Wilmington Dance Festival returns with variety of modern themes

T

BY: EMILY TRUSS

he Dance Cooperative is a name that may ring a bell to anyone who has witnessed performances at Dance-aLorus—Cucalorus Film Festival’s openingnight event each November. Not only is the company known for collaborating with filmmakers to kick off Cucalorus, but it’s as a haven for dance lovers of all ages to acquire new skills and performance opportunities. On Friday, Mar. 31 and Saturday, Apr. 1, The Dance Cooperative will delight and inspire audiences as part of their third annual Wilmington Dance Festival at UNCW’s Kenan Auditorium. The two-day event is a continuation of the North Carolina Dance Festival held each fall.

“The Wilmington Dance Festival is really all about presenting modern dance to the community,” states Nancy Carson, production manager for the festival.

Originally from New York, Carson received her bachelor of arts in dance from Northern Illinois University before teaching and performing with various dance companies throughout New York. For the last two decades, she has lived in North Carolina and helped found The Dance Cooperative.

“This year the cooperative is collaborating with UNCW Presents for the festival,” Carson says. “Our goal for this show is to bring out the best of local choreographers and dancers, as they share their talents with the community.”

The cooperative is much different from the average dance studio. As many have seen on the show “Dance Moms,” a lot of dance studios are driven by the prospect of winning competitions. In their mission statement, The Dance Cooperative emphasizes dedication to providing learning and performance opportunities to anyone who is “under-served artistically, culturally and economically in the greater Wilmington area.”

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JUST DANCE: Wilmington Dance Festival offers performance opportunities to many young dancers, as well as UNCW students, alumni and faculty. Courtesy photo by Nancy Carson.

Although many dancers and choreographers in the show are Dance Cooperative members, it also will feature UNCW students, alumni and faculty, as well as dancers from other studios around the community. Auditions open up to any interested parties. Though auditions for this year’s festival are closed, Dance Cooperative’s “Informal Showing Series” at CAM provides dancers and choreographers the opportunity to obtain professional feedback for new pieces.

“We have a monthly showing series at the Cameron Art Museum,” Carson explains.

“It’s the third Sunday of every month at 2 p.m. and it is open to the public.”

Simultaneously, the series allows for board members to select performances for the annual Wilmington Dance Festival. In fact, choreographers are required to show their pieces twice before the festival.

“Then there is adjudication for the final selection process,” Carson continues, “where the board votes on pieces they think are the most solid and ready to be performed.”

This year the show mainly consists of modern dance, which allows for a wide variety of content. “[It] is such a difficult form of dance to really pin down,” Carson explains. “We do not have a specific theme for the show, other than what choreographers choose to present.”

Some dances are serious and thoughtprovoking—others are comedic and exciting. Sue Meier will perform “Cast of Characters,” which centers on Looney Tunes cartoons. “It’s about the characters coming to life on stage,” Carson elaborates. “It’s really a lot of fun.”

There will be a silent auction at the Friday performance, too, with proceeds benefitting The Dance Cooperative’s mission of service to the community. It’s what their programming seeks to do, essentially: allow local audiences a chance to absorb and interpret the movement onstage.

“Most people don’t know what to expect when they see a modern piece,” Carson details, “but that’s part of the fun. The beauty of modern dance is its ability to encompass different ideas.”

The Wilmington Dance Festival will take place on Friday, Mar. 31 and Saturday, April 1 at Kenan Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, visit UNCW Presents at www.uncw. edu/presents/featured.html.

DETAILS:

Wilmington Dance Festival

March 31-April 1, 7:30 p.m.

UNCW Kenan Auditorium 601 S College Rd. Tickets: $15-$25; $5 for students www.uncw.edu/presents/featured

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 ArtExposure will be offering classes in watercolor, basics of acrylic, and beginning drawing. Classes in hand-building with clay can be scheduled at your convenience at ArtExposure as well as “Paint by Wine” classes for groups. Call us at 910-8030302 to schedule or if you have questions.

Current classes are listed on our website.

We have a studio available for rent at this time. You can get more information about becoming a member and renting studio space on the website. Go to the Call for Entries page. There is also an opportunity to enter our annual “Artist’s Choice” Invitational. It is open to all NC artists, 18 years and above. Download the entry form from that page for information.

ART IN BLOOM

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 exhibits original art by a diverse group of global and local artists. Events in March and April include gallery talks by featured artists. Mark Gansor will demonstrate his textured acrylic painting and speak about his art on Sunday, April 2nd, 2-4 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Admission is free and open to the public. “Catching the Spirit: Images by Mark Gansor and Carole Osman” continues through April 7th. Join us for an art opening and reception for “Sibs: New Art by Michael Van Hout and Brooks Koff” (brother and sister), Friday, April 21st, 6-9 p.m. The exhibit continues through May 27th with tie-wire sculpture, wood block carving, and mixed media by Michael and mosaic stained glass

by Brooks.

CRESCENT MOON ART AND STYLE

24 N. Front St. • (910) 762-4207 Mon.-Wed., 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thurs. - Sat., 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sun.., noon - 6 p.m. • Call for appointment!

As a longtime leader in local art curation, Crescent Moon strives to be an ambassador for their artists and to make their customers art collecting, decorating and gift-giving experience an easy one. With an unparalleled selection of individually chosen pieces and an expanded showroom with stunning collections from both new and returning artists, Crescent Moon has something for everyone.

CHARLES JONES AFRICAN ART

311 Judges Rd., Unit 6-E cjart@bizec.rr.com • (910) 794-3060 Mon. – Fri. 10am - 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm - 4 pm Open other hours and weekends by appointment www.cjafricanart.com AFRICAN ART: Museum quality African Art from West and Central Africa. Traditional African art for the discerning collector.

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

Over 30 years experience in Tribal Arts.

Our clients include many major museums.

EXPO 216

216 N. Front St, Wilmington, NC (910) 769-3899 Wed. – Sun., Noon – 6 PM www.expo216.com A “gallerium,” Expo 216 is part gallery and part museum. Incorporating 5,000 square feet over two floors of a renovation in historic downtown, Expo 216 features thoughtprovoking art and fashions. Its one-year expositions are theme-driven with the inaugural theme, Ocean Plastic, running until mid 2017. Visitors may experience CSI: Albatross (interactive crime solving), Fashion in Plastic ( nine stunning fashion creations crafted by local designers), The Plastic Age (an insightful history of plastic), What Goes Around, Comes Around (Kanagawa Waves

by Bonnie Monteleone), and more. Expo 216 is a supporter of the Wilmington music scene and provides live music during the Fourth Friday Gallery Nights.

ture, glass, pottery and jewelry. “Morning Has Broken” features works by Janet Parker.

Come see Janet’s bold use of color and texture to reveal local marsh creeks and structures.

SUNSET RIVER MARKETPLACE

10283 Beach Dr., SW (NC 179) (910) 575-5999 • Mon.- Sat. 10am - 5pm www.sunsetrivermarketplace.com Sunset River Marketplace showcases work by approximately 150 North and South Carolina artists, and houses some 10,000 square feet of oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, mixed media, art glass, fabric art, pottery, sculpture, turned and carved wood and artisan-created jewelry. There are two onsite kilns and four wheels used by students in the ongoing pottery classes offered by the gallery. A custom framing department is available. There are realistic and abstract art classes as well as workshops by nationally and regionally known artists. For more information, call 910.575.5999 or visit the website at www.sunsetrivermarketplace.com.

Upcoming Coffee with the Authors: May

11, Curtis J. James’international thriller, “High Hand.”

CFCC WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY

200 Hanover St. (bottom level, parking deck) Mon.-Fri., noon-5pm http://cfcc.edu/blogs/wilmagallery CFCC’s Wilma W. Daniels Gallery is pleased to present “Girls Thriving: The Homes of Hope Story in India,” a photo exhibit by Arrow Ross. Exhibit documents the struggle by girls in Northeast India to escape poverty through education and training. Originally from Denmark, Ross has documented social conditions around the world and is a pillar of the Wilmington arts community, best known for his fine art photography and documentation of the No Boundaries Art Colony on Bald Head Island.

Free and open to the public. More info?

Contact Ashly Farley at adfarley125@mail. cfcc.edu.

NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY

271 N. Front St. (919) 343-8997 Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) www.newelementsgallery.com Located in the heart of historic downtown Wilmington, New Elements Gallery has been offering the best of regional and national fine art and craft since 1985. “Menagerie features new work from well-known illustrator Mark Weber. Weber creates curious worlds bursting with lively characters and droll wit.

Menagerie will remain on view until April 21.

RIVER TO SEA GALLERY

225 S. Water St., Chandler’s Wharf (free parking) • (910) 763-3380 Tues.- Sat. 11am - 5pm; Sun. 1- 4pm River to Sea Gallery showcases the work of husband and wife Tim and Rebecca Duffy Bush. In addition, the gallery represents several local artists. The current show will enthrall visitors with its eclectic collection of original paintings, photography, sculp-

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ARTS>>THEATRE

SINGING ALONG TO THE CLASSICS:

Sondheim’s famed ‘Gypsy’ brings catchy tunes and relatable story to Thalian Hall

BY: SHEA CARVER

that [Mamma Rose] does but we all want them to be successful in life.”

characters are larger-than-life, and you just leave the theater feeling fully entertained.

verything’s Coming Up Roses,” “You Gotta Have a Gimmick” and “Let Me Entertain You” are but a few tunes to help make “Gypsy” one of the most successful musicals by America’s own Mozart, Stephen Sondheim. Based on the 1957 memoirs of real-life burlesque star Gypsy Rose Lee, by Arthur Laurents, the adaptation took to the stage in 1959.

It was a project of producer David Merrick and actress Ethel Merman, with music by Jule Styne and lyricsby Sondheim himsefl.

Yet “Gypsy” really tells the story of Mama Rose—the mother behind the curtain. Rose is driven by her own ambition and pushes both of her daughters toward stardom.

With original, custom costumes by Jen Iapalucci and set by Terry Collins, Amanda Hunter will lead a full 12-piece orchestra, while choreographer Laura Brogden Primavera takes on the moves of the show. “This is mine, Amanda and Laura’s third show together as a creative team,” Thompson says.

“The last being the Star News-nominated Best Musical ‘The Addams Family.’” encore spoke with Thompson to learn more about what audiences will see in “Gypsy.”

e: What do you find most fascinating about our lead character, Rose, and her many complexities?

“E

“I think we all have a little of that Mamma Bear in us when it comes to our children,” says Mike Thompson, who is directing Thalian Association’s “Gypsy” production, which opens this week. “We all want to see them succeed, we may not go to the level

encore (e): Many critics consider “Gypsy” the greatest musical in America. Where do you stand on the matter?

Mike Thompson (MT): I absolutely believe it’s the greatest musical in America.

The overture alone is in the top five overtures in musical history. I think it tells a very relatable story for all of us, whether it’s from Mamma’s perspective or June’s or Louise’s.

The songs are memorable and catchy, the

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MT: I am fascinated by Rose, and how vulnerable she really was—how she turned that around and projected it into fierceness in life. She faced many issues and rejections in her life, but she refused to let it get in her way. She had a goal, and she was going to see it through,no matter what it took. No matter who it hurt. e: How do you think modern-day audiences connect with her?

MT: I think everyone secretly wants that “Rose’s Turn” moment in life—for just once you let it all out—crazy and all. Just leave it right there on the stage and not care what anybody thinks for just that moment. It would be so therapeutic if we could all have one of those moments. e: Why did you cast Kat Vernon in the role—what appealed to you most about her audition?

MT: I have always been a fan of Kat’s work in town; though, I have never had the opportunity to actually work with her on stage or from a directing standpoint. Her professionalism and reputation preceded her, and of course, was appealing from the beginning. But when she and Beth Swindell read for Mamma and Louise, they moved me to tears. I was literally shaking at the scene that I just watched unfold before me.

(In a cold read!) I couldn’t go against that chemistry;l it’s a director’s dream. e: Who else is filling out the cast?

MT: Beth Swindell is playing Louise. Logan Tart is June, and Troy Rudeseal is Herbie, I am ecstatic to see him back onstage and also get a chance to work with him— another local great that I haven’t had the opportunity to work with. The entire cast is truly a director’s dream. I haven’t seen the likes of a male ensemble this strong in a long time; our farm boys are going to kill it.

of talent in the cast. e: Many hits came out of this show.

What makes the music so popular in your opinion?

MT: It’s catchy. You leave the theater humming the tunes even if it’s the first time seeing the show. e: How do you envision your sets to look? I imagine with vaudevillian inspiration, it will be quite fun. How will you craft this world to sweep up the audience?

MT: This is one of Terry Collins’ favorite shows, so I am very excited and trust him completely with the design. We have discussed the set in length—and, yes, there will be aspects of vaudeville all around.

Also the majority of the show takes place in various theaters around the country, and I’m really looking forward to showing the audience what backstage really looks like and what really goes on there. We are going to try to capture that as realistically as possible and transfer it to the stage.

MT: Sondheim is the king of musicals; how does “Gypsy” stand above some of his other works in your opinion?

MT: I think it’s because there are true melodies with these songs, they have a consistent chorus and layout. The majority of his later work consists of plot-driven lyrics that are difficult to sing out of context of the show. These songs are very singable out of context.

Here is a bit of trivia for you: While Sondheim was originally supposed to compose the music and lyrics for the show, Ethel Merman was not comfortable with an unknown composer (at the time) doing the whole show. So they brought in Jule Styne to do the music, and Sondheim to write the lyrics. Little did she know, I guess. [laughs]

DETAILS: Gypsy

Mar. 30-April 9, Thursday-Sat., 7:30 p.m. or Sun., 3 p.m.

MT: There are a few creative liberties we Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut St. will be taking. It will be fresh and fun, but Tickets: $15-$30 mostly you don’t fool around with a proven www.thalianhall.org e: Are you taking outside-the-box creative liberties with the production?

recipe for success. The show is so iconic I’m not sure there is much room for it anyway,.

People want to see “Gypsy” and that’s what we are going to give them, but with our force

18 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

ARTS>>THEATRE

DEEPENING A DIVIDE:

Immersive theatre stands out in ‘The Last Encampment’ but lacks deeper insights and connection BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

S

tepping into the Cape Fear Playhouse on Castle Street is like walking through Lucy’s wardrobe in “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

Instead of ending up in Narnia, audiences will enter a Confederate Army encampment outside Burlington, NC, in 1865.

Pine straw covers the stage, all the way up to the seats. Trees line the perimeter, and faintly behind those trees, Phil Cumber, Scott Davis and Steven Anderson have painted the silhouettes of distant horizons.

A campfire burns in the center of the room, surrounded by crates and a stump. Set designer Scott Davis has truly taken immersive theatre to heart as a guiding principal for his vision of “The Last Encampment”

by David Anthony Wright.

Wright is perhaps best known to Wilmington audiences for “The Hermit of Fort Fisher,” a story wherein he depicted the life and death of Carolina Beach’s most famous resident. “The Last Encampment” explores familiar tropes of war literature: a sense of endless waiting, futility and the chasm between enlisted men and officers. It depicts a long night of waiting and soul-searching for a regiment of Confederate soldiers near Burlington, NC. It could as easily be set in Vietnam as the American Civil War. How each solider responds to life’s questions is what Wright is trying to probe.

The most extreme reaction comes from regimental drummer, Patrick O’Malley (Thomas Winner). At the opening of the show, he still isn’t speaking—or eating.

He is in a state of extreme trauma. Winner actually has one of the more challenging roles: He is onstage from the opening ‘til the final bow—the majority of which goes without any interaction with other actors.

He has to convince the audience completely that his journey to communicate, both with words and fateful actions, is real and genuine. He turns in a performance that is surprising for such a young actor, but he has been performing onstage in some capacity or another since he could walk. Winner’s performance is painful to watch and heart-wrenching, especially when he finally connects with Sgt. Mos Rainey (Woody Stefl). Those two together bring the evening’s most truly tender moment to life.

Stefl’s Mos is a man of deeds and actions, not words. When given long speeches, it seems in contrast to the character.

He is a man wrestling with an angel but not even certain he wants to continue the bout. He shines during moments Mos is to display real leadership. Like the rest of the regiment, he is more weary of waiting than fighting. As the intermediary between men and officers, Mos has the unenviable job of enforcing orders with which he disagrees. When pushed to the brink, he discovers where his loyalty lies. Stefl’s quiet but determined performance of the unspoken is moving. Of all the men in the regiment, perhaps that one who needs him most is who would least admit it: Pvt. Sam Culpepper (Randy Davis), a one-eyed card shark has kept the regiment fed with the spoils of the poker table for as long as anyone can remember.

But for all these elements, there are still rocky pieces to the show, and on opening night, it felt like the cast hadn’t gelled yet.

In any large cast, there are performances that stand out more than others, but there was an unmissable unevenness to the performances that at times seemed downright distracting. Though I wanted to root for the enlisted men, I couldn’t figure out what they were rooting for. To win? To go home? To make it to another day? Of all of them, Davis was the one I connected with most. His goals were clear: Survival at all costs. Even the officers didn’t really inspire respect or admiration. Yes, they were weary, but would I have followed any of them into battle? Laid down my life for them? Outside of Mastin, highly unlikely.

Davis’ Culpepper is filled with bluster and arrogance, partly as a coping mechanism and partly to remind himself who he is. If he can just recite his particulars, he can retain his humanity—and Davis convinces us he is genuinely scared it is slipping away. His verve and tenacity are irresistible and his commitment to each moment onstage is captivating to watch.

His foil is Pvt. Angus McIntyre (Rich Deike), who found God in the carnage of war, and quotes scripture instead of making conversation.

the advent of television and Internet. It is an adjustment not only for several mem-

Into their lives, various officers parade periodically dropping information from on high. Of these, Colonel Holloway (Eban Mastin) seems to be the one most in touch with realities of the enlisted men—having sacrificed his arm in battle solidified their respect for his bravery and commitment.

Major Parker (Rob Winner) is tasked with preventing desertion and thus is “the enforcer” (no smiles, no gentleness, no bargaining, no forgiveness). He gives us the studied façade of a man who has heard every argument and plea, every convincing lie, and will do the job he has to do.

There is a grudging respect and sense of desiring distance from him.

But for Colonel Wilcox (John Wolfe), they have nothing but loathing and distrust. Wolfe does an admirable job of convincing us Wilcox has left the reality train several stations back. Frankly, his performance made me want to kill him—and my life wasn’t in his hands. It must be beyond terrifying for those at his mercy.

bers of the cast, but also for untuned ears.

A show about war and the futility of life on the losing side of it is not, by definition, an evening filled with fun, levity and rejoicing. But can we deepen, connect and develop the conversation about who we are? Why we fight? And if we humanize history or not? In spite of the detail in the design element, which are top-notch, the show itself didn’t leave me with a deeper insight into the human experience—or even Southern identity.

DETAILS:

The Last Encampment

Mar. 30-April 9, Thursday-Sunday, 8 p.m. or Sun., 3 p.m.

Wright’s dialogue is heavy. He notes Cape Fear Playhouse • 613 Castle St. in the program he is evoking a world of Tickets: $15-$22 words that has shifted and changed with www.brownpapertickets.com

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REEL TO REEL

ARTS>>FILM

A HUMAN RETURN:

films this week CINEMATIQUE

‘T2: Trainspotting’ shows character depth in sequel

Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut St. $8, 7pm • www.thalianhall.org

March 29 (3 p.m. and 7 p.m.): “Toni Erdmann” is playing in Ruth and Bucky Stein Theatre. The story follows a reluctant woman (Sandra Hüller), who spends time with her estranged father (Peter Simonischek) upon a surprise visit. Dad, a practical jokester, tries to reconnect with his hard working daughter by creating an outrageous alter ego and posing as her CEO’s life coach. Nominated for the Best Foreign Film Academy Award. (Rated R, 202 minutes)

Apr. 3-5, 7 p.m. (additional screening at 4 p.m. on Wed., Apr. 7): Showing at the main stage at Thalian, director Raoul Peck envisions the book James Baldwin never finished—a radical narration about race in America, using the writer’s original words. He draws upon Baldwin’s notes on the lives and assassinations of Medgar Evers, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr. to explore and bring a fresh and radical perspective to the current racial narrative in America. Nominated for the Best Documentary Feature Academy Award. (Rated PG-13, 93 minutes)

BY: ANGHUS

I

’d be lying if I said I hadn’t been wildly anticipating and dreading this movie simultaneously. “Trainspotting” is one of my favorite movies—an energetic burst of manic mayhem featuring beautifully rendered characters and an affecting story about the human tragedy of drug addiction. It’s one of those cultural staples that helped define an absolutely mind-blowing decade of cinema that launched in 1989 with the release of “Do the Right Thing,” “Roger & Me” and “Sex, Lies, and Videotape.” It was an era of independent and art-house-film superiority that delivered, arguably, the most interesting decade of cinema ever.

It’s always weird to hear about a sequel for a truly great and/or original movie. My natural instinct is to like the idea. “I liked this thing.

Surely I’ll like more of it, right?” We’ve been conditioned to expect subsequent installments, especially in the bottom of the scum-filled barrel that is the Hollywood blockbuster. I doubt there’s very few people surprised to learn there is an eighth “Fast & Furious” film coming out this year. It’s successful hot garbage, so of course it gets another installment. But we don’t expect the same when it comes to something serious, artistic or well-respected.

I’d be a little more surprised if they announced “Schindler’s List 2” or “Return to the Hurt Locker.” They’re creative endeavors that achieved their goals and required no further installments. So when they announced they were making a second “Trainspotting,” I got nervous.

There is precedent for this kind of going-backto-the-well storytelling and none of it is particularly good. At best we end up with a well-intentioned misfire like “The Two Jakes.” At worst we get something like “Clerks 2,” which was so bad it strips some of the luster from the superior first film. Once in a generation we are gifted

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THE RETURN: Drug addicts all grown up in “T2.”

Photo credit: Sony Pictures UK

with something magnificent like “The Godfather Part II.” The second “Trainspotting” manages the deft feat of being entertaining while avoiding the pitfalls of “follow-up creativity.” We catch up with our old friends Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor), Simon aka Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller), Spud (Ewen Bremmer), and Begbie (Robert Carlyle).

It’s been 20 years since the events of the first film: Mark betrayed his fellow junkies by skulking away with a bag full of cash, hoping to set his life straight. Turns out those two decades hadn’t been too kind to any of them. Mark got off drugs, but has ended up in a loveless marriage with a go nowhere job and a faulty heart valve. He thinks back to the better days of his youth and decides to return to the perpetually grey skies of Edinburgh, to try and make amends with two of the three victims of his betrayal.

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Spud is still a junkie, failing his way through life and managing to continually disappoint his ex-wife and son. Simon runs a shoddy family pub and has teamed up with a lovely young Slovenian to help him execute a number of shady schemes. Mark tries to help Spud chan-

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nel his addictive tendencies into something more positive. His relationship with Simon is more difficult to mend. While these dynamics are each interesting, it’s the wild card that is Begbie that turns the movie from a simple character drama to a more manic affair. After escaping prison, Begbie tries to reunite with his son and help usher him into a life of con games and B&Es. When he learns Mark has returned, he goes mad with rage and begins to plot his revenge.

“T2” is an enjoyable, even if it’s not a revolutionary follow-up. I realize every movie doesn’t need to be ground-breaking, but the original is such a perfect piece of art: a combination of amazing source material, impeccable performances, and a director able to blend sight and sound into something amazing. There are few films that find the symphonic symmetry of “Trainspotting.” It’s a movie that manages to be humorous, heartbreaking and unapologetically human. The humans are still the most interesting part of the story, and it’s a wonderful bit of nostalgia, getting to catch up with them again. While the movie is faithful and the story compelling, it lacks the raw energy of the original. I suppose much of that is intentional.

These aren’t young, brash, consequence-free addicts anymore. They are middle-aged men who managed to survive in spite of their selfdestructive tendencies. None of them chose this life, and surviving comes with its own set of consequences.

DETAILS:

T2: Trainspotting

Rated PG-13 Directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts Starring Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Brie Larson |

ARTS>>FILM

A VISIONARY COMMUNITY:

UNCW’s Visions brings undergraduate filmmakers into the spotlight

BY: KYLE MAPLES

W

hen asked for advice on how to succeed as an up-and-coming filmmaker, Quentin Tarantino once responded with a simple answer: “Make ‘Reservoir Dogs.’” Beyond filming an awesome movie, though, breaking into the industry takes extensive networking, technical expertise and an ability to reach audiences. At UNCW the Visions Film Festival and Conference provides undergraduate filmmakers and scholars with the opportunity to show their work and advance their careers. The seventh annual Visions— dubbed Visions007, complete with a spy theme—will take place on Friday, Mar. 31.

“I think we’re in a really good place right now,” says Mariah Smallwood, Visions’ managing director. “At this moment we’re all just super excited for the weekend to actually start.”

“The festival’s a lot earlier this year,” adds Carly Dawson, assistant managing director and programming director. “But I still feel like we did well.”

Now seniors at UNCW, Smallwood and Dawson both discovered an interest in film, coincidentally. It all began with their dads’ interests in making home movies. Smallwood and Dawson cut their teeth creating self-described “crappy YouTube videos” with their friends. By the time they reached college, they both had a newfound passion.

Dawson’s interest in Visions began in her teens. She grew up in Raleigh, NC, and attended Enloe High School. Dawson would visit Wilmington during spring break.

“As a high schooler, I was like, ‘Oh, my God! This is a big campus! These films are so cool!” Dawson says. “I think it was the first film festival I went to.”

UNCW professor Shannon Silva started the festival in 2006. It operates as a class, in which students organize and execute everything—from choosing what films screen, to devising the lineup and order, to overseeing the festival the day of. The class initially worked within Wilmington’s independent Cucalorus Film Festival and programmed a block of UNCW undergraduate films.

The first official Visions took place in 2011.

Since, it has grown to incorporate international films and networking resources.

“It’s become more community-based,” Smallwood says. “We’ve focused on how to

get the students here on campus involved in our program. . . . and cosponsoring with ACE [UNCW’s Association for Campus Entertainment] Films and Flicker [Film Society], just to have that sense of a Wilmington film community.”

four to five filmmakers. They have one hour to create a one-minute, one-take film. This year each team will be given a prop and movie title, which they must incorporate into their video. A screening block for the films will follow.

“We’re really focused on ‘for students, by students,’” Smallwood says. “It’s studentrun, student-driven and student-inspired.”

The festival is full of events to engage film buffs of all types. During two of its blocks, 23 films will be shown, all made by undergraduate students from around the US and beyond. The first block includes “Squan,” an experimental piece by UNCW filmmaker Jake Hart. The movie explores the darkness of winter on the East Coast. “How Far I Want to Go” by Nairobi-based director David Hutchinson is a short film about love, pain and life told through the perspectives of former Kenyan street children.

During the Conference Block, four undergraduate film scholars will present analyses on innovative topics. UNCW’s Jillian Carney inspects the accidental avant-garde genius of Tommy Wiseau’s cult classic “The Room.” Elizabeth McCauley of the University of Virginia will present her analysis, Visual & Symbolic Power of Milk in American Gangster Films. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentations, and will give scholars and audience members an open platform for filmic dialogue.

Visions Film Festival 2017: Visions007

In the second block, a 25-minute animation, “One Way Town”—by Eli Ayres from St. Mary’s College of Maryland—follows a private eye in an investigation that spirals into kidnapping, mad-science experiments and a malicious cult. “Head Space,” a short narrative by Emma Huibregtse of the University of Southern California, tells the story of a single mother. She is concerned with her son’s odd coping mechanisms and sees the tables turn when she is faced with danger.

To close out the festivities, Buzz’s Roost in downtown Wilmington will host Visions’ after party, with dancing, games, food, drinks, and an awards ceremony.

DETAILS:

UNCW’s Lumina Theater and Sharky’s Game Room • 601 S. College Rd. March 31, 8 a.m.

Registration: $15-20 www.visionsffc.org

The Visionary Panel launched last year with much success and will continue in 2017. It brings together former Visions filmmakers who now work in the industry and share insights with undergrad students.

“A lot of people really liked it because it served as a networking opportunity,” Smallwood says. In fact, it led to many undergrads receiving internships. “That’s one of our main goals: for undergraduates to network with industry professionals.”

A variety of positions comprise the panel, including director, editor, videographer, documentarian, nonprofit campaign coordinator, sales manager, and VFX coordinator. They’ll be present for the whole festival to connect with students and attendees.

Felix Thompson, a member of the Visionary Panel, will deliver the keynote address.

His film “Bedford Park Boulevard” won the Excellence in Narrative award at the first Visions. Since, his films have screened at SXSW and BFI’s London Film Festival. As well he won the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2015 for his debut feature, “King Jack.”

An interactive program, Video Race, takes place during the festival, and culls teams of

encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 21

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

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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.

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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

22 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

photo courtesy of Lindsey A. Miller Photography

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.

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■ SERVING LUNCH, BRUNCH & DINNER: Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 11am-2pm; Thursday evening, 5pm-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.camcafe.org CAPT’N BILL’S BACKYARD GRILL Capt’n Bill’s is a great place to have fun, meet people and get some great exercise all at the same time. We have a lively, personable and tentative wait staff, not to mention a wide selection of food and two full service bars. Whether you love seafood, BBQ, sandwiches or veggies, Capt’n Bill’s has something for everyone. Capt’n Bill’s has over a dozen televisions, including a big screen, so that you can watch a variety of sporting events.

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Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill and Outdoor Volleyball Facility. 4240 Market St. (910) 762-0173 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon-Thurs, 5-11pm; Fri., 4-11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., noon-10pm.

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■ SERVING BRUNCH: Sunday 11am-3pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Brooklyn Arts District ■ WEBSITE: www.districtnc.com ELIJAH’S Since 1984, Elijah’s has been Wilmington, NC’s outdoor dining destination. We feature expansive indoor and outdoor waterfront dining, with panoramic views of riverfront sunsets. As a Casual American Grill and Oyster Bar, Elijah’s offers everything from fresh local seafood and shellfish to pastas, sandwiches, and Certified Angus Beef selections. We offer half-priced oysters from 4-6 every Wednesday & live music with our Sunday Brunch from 11-3. Whether you are just looking for a great meal & incredible scenery, or a large event space for hundreds of people, Elijah’s is the place to be.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11:3010:00; Friday and Saturday 11:30-11:00 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Wilmington Kids menu available ETERNAL SUNSHINE CAFÉ Wilmington’s new unique restaurant, Eternal Sunshine Café, is conveniently located between downtown and Wrightsville Beach, also close to UNCW. It is a great spot to savor a gourmet breakfast, like cinna-swirl pancakes with coffee cream cheese syrup or a southwest benedict with chipotle hollandaise on a made from scratch biscuit. The lunch menu is filled with fresh delectable salads, sandwiches on house baked breads, and pitas. Come experience the innovative twist on breakfast classics and a casual lunch guaranteed to make you a regular customer. May the tranquility of Eternal Sunshine Cafe’s atmosphere shine upon your face and reinvigorate your day. Serving breakfast all day.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH: MondayWednesday 7-2, Thursday-Friday 6:30-2, Saturday 7-2, Sunday 8-2 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.eternalsunshinecafe.com THE FELIX CAFE The Felix Cafe is a restaurant experience like no other in Wilmington, N.C. Our eatery is a unique and relaxing gem situated near the port, and at the edge of Sunset Park on Burnett Blvd. We believe fine dining doesn’t have to come with all the fuss.

From our homemade soups to the locally sourced produce, we let the ingredients speak for themselves in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Folks will

enjoy the outdoor seating, our vibrant staff, the colorful interior, and our cabana style tiki bar. You will come here as a customer and leave as a friend.

2140 Burnett Blvd. (910) 399-1213.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Thurs.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun.-Wed..: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Sunset Park, Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials, full bar,freejazz and wine tastings on Thursdays ■ WEBSITE: www.thefelixcafeonline.com 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

BEST OF 2017

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

R U N N E R u p

Serving seasonally inspired, locally-sourced Southern Cuisine.

Proudly purchasing all of our seafood, protein, and produce from local fishermen, vendors, and farmers.

P embroke ’ s

SPECIALS:

SoCIAL Hour In tHE BAr tuESdAy - tHurSdAy 5Pm-7Pm wItH BAr mEnu & CoCktAIL SPECIALS

Dinner Daily: Tuesday - Saturday starting at 5pm Sunday Brunch: 10am-2pm

1125 A, m ILItAry C utoff r d . • (910) 239-9153 www . PEmBrokESCuISInE . Com

F acebook :

Facebook . com / pembrokeswilmington or Follow us on instagram @ pembrokecuisine

encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 23

food, be sure to head over to JohnnyLukes KitchenBar and JL’s Loft! 5500 Market Street, Suite 130. (910)-769-1798 ■ OPEN: JohnnyLukes KitchenBar: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 10pm; JL’s Loft: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 2am ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.johnnylukeskb.com THE LITTLE DIPPER Wilmington’s favorite fondue restaurant! The Little Dipper specializes in unique fondue dishes with a global variety of cheeses, meats, seafood, vegetables, chocolates and fine wines. The warm and intimate dining room is a great place to enjoy a 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; Seasonal hours are open 7 days a week, Memorial Day through October ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Tasting menu every Tues. with small plates from $1-$4; Ladies Night every Wed; $27 4-course prix fixe menu on Thurs.; “Date night menu,” $65/couple with beer and wine tasting every Fri. and half price bottles of wine on Sun. ■ MUSIC: Mondays and Memorial Day-October, 7-9pm ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com 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-

and

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 THE PUB A true public house. A gathering place. In house fresh ground burgers made with short rib, brisket and chuck on Sweet n Savory’s, made from scratch, bread along with 40 other sandwiches and meals under $12. 32 beers on tap, friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere where you can hang out with friends and enjoy live music, your favorite NFL game or the BEST burger you’ll ever eat! 2012 Eastwood Road, Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 679-8101, Hours: 11am-2am ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Causeway ■ WEBSITE: www.sweetnsavory.pub RISE Serving up the best dang biscuits and donuts in Wilmington, Rise is not any typical breakfast spot.

Our donut menu includes an assortment of ‘old

school, new school, and our school’ flavors; and our buttery, flaky biscuits filled with country ham, bacon, sausage, fried chicken, and fried eggplant “bacon” are crave-worthy. Lunch is on the Rise with our new chicken sandwiches on potato rolls and fresh salads. 1319 Military Cutoff Rd. (910) 239-9566 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.- Sun. 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ WEBSITE: http://risebiscuitsdonuts.com

vory we have pulled back the curtain because we don’t believe that we need smoke, mirrors, over inflated prices or pretentiousness to offer you the best and freshest food your money can buy.

1611 Pavillion Place, Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 256-0115 Hours: 7am-10pm.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER, BAKERY & CATERING ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Causeway ■ WEBSITE: www.sweetnsavorycafe.com

SPICOLI “In crust we trust.” Spicoli specializes in classic NY style pizza with a totally unconventional (AND DELICIOUS) sourdough crust. We also feature one-of-a-kind burger creations, Jumbo wings complete with our perfect, house-made blue cheese or ranch. Or enjoy any of our unique vegan or glutenfree options. But Spicoli is not just amazing food.

We keep it awesome with a killer juke box, classic arcade games, and great deals on everything at our full bar. Share some brews over PacMan or enjoy the area’s only 20in pie on our outdoor patio.

Just make sure you are having fun. Don’t worry!!

If you can’t come see us, we also have the largest delivery radius in town!! 1978 Eastwood Road, (910) 256-0339.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach

THE TROLLY STOP Trolly Stop Hot Dogs is a five-store franchise in Southeastern North Carolina. Since 1976 they have specialized in storemade chili, slaw and various sauces. As of more recently, select locations (Fountain Dr. and Southport) have started selling genuine burgers and cheese steaks (Beef & Chicken). Our types of hotdogs include beef & Pork (Trolly Dog), all-beef, pork smoked sausage (Carolina Packer), Fat Free (Turkey) & Veggie.

Recognized as having the Best Hot Dog in the Best of Wilmington Awards in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Call Individual Stores for hours of operation or check out our website at www. trollystophotdogs.com. Catering available, now a large portion of our business. All prices include tax. Call Rick at 297-8416 for catering and franchise information.

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

SWEET ‘N’ SAVORY CAFÉ The Real Wizard Behind the Food. Anyone who has seen the Wizard of Oz knows that the wizard was just a scared old man hiding behind the curtain. Restaurants are no different. Making incredible food is not magical or mystical and instead just requires heart (Tin Man), brains (Scarecrow), courage (Lion) and love (Dorothy). At Sweet n Sa-

DINER

“We pride ourselves in offering

Quality Seafood at Reasonable Prices” fast Break ch & Lun t Buffe ay D Every

Serving

• Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • Dine In or Take Out

Hours: Monday - Saturday 6:30am - 9:00pm • Sunday 6:30am - 3:00pm

6309 Market Street, Wilmington • 910.769.2018 24 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER GOURMET HOT CHOCOLATES UNIQUE SPECIALS DAILY 250 Racine Drive • Wilmington, NC Racine Commons • 910.523.5362 www.BlueSurfCafe.com

OKAMI JAPANESE

ASIAN

GENKI SUSHI Welcome to Genki Sushi, an inviting and unique dining experience in the heart of Wilmington. We serve the freshest, most authentic sushi and traditional Japanese favorites. In the mood for sushi and authentic Japanese food? Look no further then Genki Sushi. From fresh nigiri to custom rolls, everything is homemade, including all of our sauces.

We look forward to meeting each and every one of you and can’t wait for you to try our delicious Japanese cuisine. You can make a reservation through OpenTable (you must have a reservation for Friday and Saturday nights), or just walk in during our open hours Sunday through Thursday. At Genki, everyone is welcome! 4724 New Centre Dr. #5, Wilmington. (910) 796-8687.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Closed Monday, Tues-Sat 11:30a.m. - 2:00p.m.

5:00p.m. - 9:30, Sunday 5p.m. - 9p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.nikkissushibar.com/

HIBACHI STEAK HOUSE We have reinvented “Hibachi Cuisine”. Okami Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse in Wilmington, NC is like no other. Our highly skilled chefs will not only cook an incredible dinner, but they will entertain you on the way. Our portions are large, our drinks are less expensive, and our staff is loads of fun. At Okami Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse, we are committed to using quality ingredients and seasoning with guaranteed freshness.

Our goal is to utilize all resources, domestically and internationally, to ensure that we serve only the finest food products. We believe that good healthy food aids the vital functions for wellbeing, both physically and mentally. Our menu consists of a wide range of Steak, Seafood, and Chicken for the specially designed “Teppan Grill,” to the taste bud tingling Japanese Sushi, Hand Rolls, Sashimi, Tempura dishes and Japanese Noodle entrees. This offers our guests a complete Japanese dining experience.

Check out our all you can eat sushi menu and daily specials at www.okamisteakhouse.com!

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday - Thursday 11am - 2:30pm / 4pm - 10pm; Friday 11am - 2:30pm / 4pm - 11pm; Saturday 11am - 11pm; Sunday 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 THAI SPICE From the flavorfully mild to the fiery spiced, Thai Spice customers are wooed by the dish that’s made to their specifications. Featuring a tasteful menu of traditional Thai standards to numerous delectable house specials, it’s quickly becoming the local favorite for Thai cuisine. This family-run restaurant is sure to win you over. If you haven’t discovered this gem, come in and be charmed.

Whether it be a daytime delight, or an evening indulgence, your visit will make you look forward to your return. Located in Monkey Junction at 5552 Carolina Beach Rd., Ste. G. (910) 791-0044.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tue.-Th.: 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat.: 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Sun.: 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.ThaiSpiceWilmington.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.

BAGELS BEACH BAGELS Beach Bagels is “the” favorite spot for breakfast and lunch in Wilmington. Get a taste of a New York-style bagel by the beach. We make our bagels the traditional way: kettle-boiled then baked and always made with love. Enjoy something simple like a traditional BLT, or spice it up and try our AnnieWB: turkey breast, bacon, Swiss, lettuce, tomato, mayo, onions, and jalapeños. Not in the mood for a bagel? Don’t worry, we have ciabatta bread, croissants, kaiser rolls, biscuits, and wraps.

Whatever you’re looking for, we have you covered.

Don’t forget to make your lunch sandwich a combo for only $1.50,. and get a small drink, potato salad or chips and a pickle spear. Come see us at 5906 Oleander Drive or 7220 Wrightsville Avenue— right before the drawbridge on the way to beautiful

Wrightsville Beach.

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

■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/Beach-Bagels-301865953202309/

BREWPUB BILL’S FRONT PORCH Welcome to Bill’s Front Porch Brewery & Restaurant, where you’ll find fine handcrafted beers, creative yet informal cuisine, and friendly, attentive service in a casual, upscale atmosphere.

We’re passionate about producing distinctive, full-flavored handcrafted beers, accompanied by fresh–from–scratch New American cuisine in a comfortable, casual atmosphere. Our goal has always been to provide food and beer that is inspired, consistently crafted and presented by a knowledgeable and courteous service staff. Our commitment to support the communities in which we do business goes to the heart of what differentiates Bill’s Front Porch from other restaurants. But it is because of you, our guests, that we have been able to make this all happen. 4238 Market St. 4-10 Mon-Wed; 4-11 Thurs; 11-11 Fri-Sat; 12-10 Sun. 910-762-6333 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown/Market St. ■ FEATURING: Homemade craft beer, bar food and entrees.

■ WEBSITE: www.billsfrontporch.com

Japanese HibacHi steakHouse & susHi

Daily specials: all You can eat sushi | Lunch $11.99 Dinner $21.99 | kids 13 or under $13.99 sunday $21.99 aLL DaY! early bird special $16.99 | 4-6pm daily | pick 2 meats (chicken, shrimp, steak or calamari)

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

encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 25

DINNER THEATRE THEATRENOW TheatreNOW is a performing arts complex that features weekend dinner theater, an award-winning weekly kids variety show, monthly Sunday Jazz Brunches, movie, comedy and live music events.

Award-winning chef, Denise Gordon, and a fabulous service staff pair scrumptious multi-course themed meals and cocktails with our dinner shows in a theatre-themed venue. Dinner theater at its best! Reservations highly suggested. 19 S. 10th Street (910) 399.3NOW (3669). Hours vary.

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.harpwilmington.com

ITALIAN 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!

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD DELIVERY OFFERED: Monkey Junction and near Independence Mall ■ WEBSITE: www.antoniospizzaandpasta.com FAT TONY’S ITALIAN PUB Fat Tony’s has the right combination of Italian and American influences to mold it into a unique family-friendly restaurant with a “gastropub” feel.

Boasting such menu items as Veal Saltimbocca, Eggplant Parmigiana, USDA Prime Sirloin, and award-winning NY style hand-tossed pizzas, Fat Tony’s is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their appetizers range from Blue Crab Dip to Grilled Pizzas to Lollipop Lamb Chops. Proudly supporting the craft beer movement, they have an ever-changing selection of microbrews included in their 27-tap lineup – 12 of which are from NC. They have a wide selection of bottled beers, a revamped wine list, and an arsenal of expertly mixed cocktails that are sure to wet any whistle. Fat Tony’s offers lunch specials until 3pm Monday through Friday and a 10% discount to students and faculty at CFCC. They have two pet-friendly patios – one looking out onto Front Street and one with a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River. With friendly, excellent service and a fun, inviting atmosphere, expect to have your expectations exceeded at Fat Tony’s. Find The Fla-

vor…..Craft Beer, Craft Pizza!

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

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Downtown and Wilmington South.

■ FEATURING: Largest tequila selection in town!

■ WEBSITE: www.grabslice.com

LATIN AMERICAN

SAN JUAN CAFÉ Offering the most authentic, gourmet Latin American cuisine in Wilmington. With dishes from countries such as Puerto Rico, Colombia, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and Cuba you’ll be able to savor a variety of flavors from all over Latin America. Located at 3314 Wrightsville Avenue.

910.790.8661 Follow us on Facebook/Twitter for live music updates!

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon - Sat. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and from 5-10 p.m. Closed Sunday.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Nightly specials ■ WEBSITE: www.sanjuancafenc.com

MEXICAN

EL CERRO GRANDE In January, El Cerro Grande will celebrate 25 years serving authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine to the greater Wilmington area. With an ever-evolving menu, they have introduced eight new exclusive soft tacos as part of Taco Fiesta! They churn out mouth-watering enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, chef specialties, and more, in a colorfully inviting dining room marked by a friendly staff and attention

to detail. Check out El Cerro’s daily drink and food specials at their three different locations, including $3.50 margaritas on Tuesdays off Military Road, on Wednesdays at 341 S. College Road, and on Thursdays at 5120 S. College Road. Mondays feature fajita dinners for 10.99 at all locations, and they even have karaoke every Wednesday at 341 S. College Rd, starting at 6 p.m. Serving lunch and dinner daily.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri., open at 11 a.m.; Sat-Sun., open at 11:30 a.m.

■ LOCATIONS: 341 S. College Rd., 910-7930035; 5120 S. College Rd., 910-790-8727; 1051 Military Cutoff Rd., 910-679-4209 ■ WEBSITE: www.elcerrogranderestaurant.com

LA COSTA MEXICAN RESTAURANT With three locations to serve Wilmingtonians, La Costa is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m with lunch specials. Their full dinner menu (from 3 p.m. on) offers the best in Mexican cuisine across the city. From top-sellers, like fajitas, quesadillas and burritos, to chef’s specialty items, like molcajete or borrego, a taste of familiar and exotic can be enjoyed. All of La Costa’s pico de gallo, guacamole, salsas, chile-chipotle, enchilada and burrito sauces are made in house daily. Add to it a 16-ounce margarita, which is only $4.25 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: lacostamexicanrestauranwilmington. com

ORGANIC

LOVEY’S NATURAL FOODS & CAFÉ Lovey’s Natural Foods & Café is a true blessing for shoppers looking for organic and natural groceries and supplements, or a great place to meet friends for a quick, delicious and totally fresh meal or snack. Whether you are in the mood for a veggie burger, hamburger or a chicken Caesar wrap, shoppers will find a large selection of nutritious meals on the a la carte Lovey’s Cafe’ menu. The Food Bar—which has cold, organic salads and hot selections—can be eaten in the newly expanded Lovey’s Cafe’ or boxed for take-out. The Juice Bar offers a wide variety of delicious juices and smoothies

BUY ONE at regular price GET ONE

99¢

+ tax

Equal or lesser value • Limited Time Offer at the following Dairy Queen locations:

• 1517 Dawson St., Wilmington • 5901 Oleander Dr., Wilmington • 20 Naber Dr., Shallotte • 5701 East Oak Island Drive, Long Beach • 106 Southport-Supply Rd. SE, Supply

26 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

SEAFOOD • STEAK • SUSHI • CHINESE BUFFET

BAR & GRILL WITH OVER 100 ITEMS Ask about our special room for private parties!

2541 CAROLINA BEACH ROAD • 763-8808

Hibachi Grill Included W ith Th e buffet!

Open Daily Lunch and Dinner • Mon - Thurs. 11am-10pm • Fri.-Sat. 11am-11pm • Sun. 11am-10pm

300 OFF

$

Any 3 Adult Lunch or 2 Dinner Buffets

ASIAN BUFFET DINE-IN ONLY One Coupon Per Purchase.

Not valid with any other.

Excludes Crab Legs Offer Expires 3/31/17

200 OFF

$

Any 2 Adult Lunch or Dinner Buffets

ASIAN BUFFET DINE-IN ONLY One Coupon Per Purchase.

Not valid with any other.

Excludes Crab Legs Offer Expires 3/31/17

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 WHOLE FOODS MARKET Whole Foods Market offers one of the most expansive freshly prepared foods options in the city!

With 4 bars featuring hot dishes & salads, a sandwich station, sushi station, and pizza station, you are apt to satisfy everyone in your group. All of the ingredients are free of any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives so food is fresh and flavorful from farm, ranch, or dock to your fork! Dine in the cafe or carry out. On any given day the selection offers an array of organic, local, vegan/vegetarian, and healthy options. Voted Best Salads by encore readers.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: 7

days a week. Monday - Sunday. 8am - 9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Seasonal, healthy, organic, vegan/ vegetarian ■ WEBSITE: www.wholefoodsmarket.com

SEAFOOD

BUSTER’S CALABASH SEAFOOD AND DINER New to the NOMA corridor, Buster’s Calabash Seafood and Diner features a large menu of seafood that will sate all fishy palates. From fresh catfish and flounder to shrimp, and scallops, oysters and crab cakes, it’s all found in one spot. They also offer sandwiches, fajitas, and wraps, so there is something for everyone. Their daily blue-plate specials help keep the belly full and the wallet light, while their daily breakfast buffet and special Sunday brunch buffet (6:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.) keeps the early and midday risers just as full. 6309 Market St, North Wilmington. 910-769-2018 ■ SERVING BREAKFAST LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week, Mon-Sat, 6:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sun., 6:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Reservations available.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Calabash-style seafood and more!

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY Founded in 2008 by Evans and Nikki Trawick, Cape Fear Seafood Company has become a local hotspot for the freshest, tastiest seafood in the area. With its growing popularity, the restaurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to a second location in Porter’s Neck, and coming soon in 2017, their third location in Waterford in Leland. “We are a dedicated group of individuals working together as a team to serve

spectacular food, wine and spirits in a relaxed and casual setting,” restaurateur Evans Trawick says.

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

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

We feature Wild Caught & Sustainably raised Seafood. Organic and locally sourced produce & herbs provide the perfect compliment to our fresh Catch. Consecutively Voted Wilmington’s Best Chef 2008, 09 & 2010. Dubbed “Modern Seafood Cuisine” we offer an array Fresh Seafood & Steaks, including our Signature NC Sweet Potato Salad. Appetizers include our Mouth watering “Fire Cracker” Shrimp, Crispy Cajun Fried NC Oysters & Blue Crab Claw Scampi, & Seafood Ceviche to name a few. Larger Plates include, Charleston Crab Cakes, Flounder Escovitch & Miso Salmon.

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

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

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

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week.

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

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

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

DECK OPENS AZALEA FESTIVAL WEEKEND Deck and and bar bar will will open open at at NOON NOON Azalea Azalea Fest Fest Weekend Weekend (4/8 (4/8 & & 4/9) 4/9) Deck offering our our A’la A’la Carte Carte menu menu and and great great drink drink features. features. offering e

ner Serving Din at 5pm, Tue-Sun

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W I N N E R

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

as theEncouraged best place to have a first date!

138 South Front Street • Downtown • Reservations • 910.251.0433 • www.littledipperfondue.com encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 27

28 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

event space available. 703 S. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach. (910) 256.5551.

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

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

Featuring the only Downtown bar that faces the river and opening our doors in 1978, The Pilot House is the oldest restaurant in the Downtown area. We offer stunning riverfront views in a newly-renovated relaxed, casual setting inside or on one of our two outdoor decks. Join us for $5.00 select appetizers 7 days a week and live music every Friday and Saturday nigh on our umbrella deck. Large parties welcome. Private event space available. 910-3430200 2 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11am9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. Kids menu ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Riverfront Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Fresh local seafood specialties, Riverfront Dining, free on-site parking ■ MUSIC: Outside Every Friday and Saturday ■ WEBSITE: www.pilothouserest.com SHUCKIN’ SHACK Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar has two locations in the Port City area. The original Shack is located in Carolina Beach at 6A N. Lake Park Blvd. (910-4587380) and our second location is at 109 Market Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington (910-8338622). The Shack is the place you want to be to catch your favorite sports team on 7 TV’s carrying all major sports packages. A variety of fresh seafood is available daily including oysters, shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab legs. Shuckin’ Shack has expanded its menu now offering fish tacos, crab cake sliders, fried oyster po-boys, fresh salads, and more. Come in and check out the Shack’s daily lunch, dinner, and drink specials. It’s a Good Shuckin’ Time!

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Carolina Beach Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-2am; Sun: Noon-2am, Historic Wilmington: Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm; FriSat: 11am-Midnight ■ NEIGHBORHOODS: Carolina Beach and Downtown ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials. Like us on Facebook!

■ WEBSITE: www.TheShuckinShack.com

SOUTHERN

CASEY’S BUFFET In Wilmington, everyone knows where to go for solid country cooking. That place is Casey’s Buffet, winner of encore’s Best Country Cookin’/ Soul Food and Buffet categories. “Every day we are open, somebody tells us it tastes just like their grandma’s or mama’s cooking,” co-owner Gena Casey says. Gena and her husband Larry run the show at the Oleander Drive restaurant where people are urged to enjoy all food indigenous to the South: fried chicken, barbecue, catfish, mac‘n’cheese, mashed potatoes, green beans, chicken‘n’dumplings, biscuits and homemade banana puddin’ are among a few of many other delectable items. 5559 Oleander Drive. (910) 798-2913.

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

and Tuesdays.

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

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

■ SERVING BRUNCH & DINNER: Tues-Thurs, 5-10pm; Fri-Sat, 5-10:30pm; Sun., 10am-3pm and 5-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.rxwilmington.com PEMBROKE’S A seasonally inspired and locally sourced Southern cuisine dining experience, Pembroke’s was created by the owners of downtown’s Rx Restaurant.

Pembroke’s focuses on the same values and excellent service as its sister restaurant, purveying local companies for the best in seafood, proteins and produce. They work with local fisherman and farmers to ensure your meal will be freshly grown and hand chosen. A new dinner menu is churned out daily to ensure the chefs are working with the freshest ingredients. Plus, the bartenders are creating new drink menus daily as to never bore your taste buds. 1125 A Military Cutoff Rd. 910-2399153.

■ SERVING BRUNCH & DINNER: Open for dinner Tues-Sun, 5pm-close, with live music Fri-Sat nights. Sunday brunch, 10am-3pm.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.pembrokescuisine.com

SPORTS BAR

CAROLINA ALE HOUSE Voted best new restaurant AND best sports bar of 2010 in Wilmington, Carolina Ale House is the place to be for award-winning food, sports and fun.

Located on College Rd. near UNC W, this lively sports-themed restaurant. Covered and open outdoor seating is available. Lunch and dinner specials are offered daily, as well as the coldest $2 and $3 drafts in town. 317 South College Road. (910) 791.9393.

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.CarolinaAleHouse.com JAX 5TH AVE. DELI & ALE HOUSE Locally owned and operated, Jax offers a laid-back atmosphere, welcoming foodies, sports fans, and craft beer enthusiasts alike. We provide a full eclectic menu of quality Boar’s Head sliced meat and cheeses, and feature unique items like our smoked salmon deviled egg, a legendary Italian sandwich, and famous pita pizzas that bake up lite and crispy.

20 HDTVs feature premium sports packaging for all the games! Supporting local craft breweries with 24 drafts and over 100 different bottles and cans, enjoy it all inside the shiny silver building or outside on the dog-friendly patio at 5046 New Centre Dr. Carry out: 910-859-7374.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Full menu until 2am daily.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, near UNCW ■ FEATURING: Daily food and drink specials.

■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/ JaxFifthAveDeliAleHouse

Thank you, Wilmington!

For voting us Best Thai for 16 years, as well as Best Atmosphere, Restaurant Overall and Outdoor Dining for 11 years! We appreciate your continued patronage.

Love, Niki and staff

Lunch: Tues. - Fri., 11am-2pm and Sat. noon-3pm Dinner: Mon.-Sun., 5-10pm 7 Wayne Dr. • (910) 251-9229 indochinewilmington.com

encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 29

SERVING WILMINGTONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST CRAB CAKES Our crab cakes are made with jumbo lump crab meat.

No breading, all crab...

Just like Maryland style.

Lunch specials: $7.99 burgers and $6.99 wraps Monday -Friday 11-3 pm

We deliver!

121 Grace Street Downtown Wilmington (910) 833-5787 www.graceon2nd.com 30 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

e

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Discover the Power of Holistic Health Care

ACUPUNCTURE WORKS! Acupuncture • Herbal Pharmacy Therapeutic Massage & Body Work • Yoga and More...

Our Professionals Leon McKay, L.Ac., Pam King, LMBT #4182 4916 Wrightsville Ave. Wilmington NC 28403 910.791.1981 MckayHealingArts.com

encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 31

Elijah’s

The Basics

Pilot House

2 Ann Street • (910) 343-1448 www.elijahs.com

319 No. Front St. • (910) 343-1050 www.thebasicswilmington.com

2 Ann Street • (910) 343-0200 www.pilothouserest.com

Seafood

Southern

Seafood

2-COURSE LUNCH: $18 PER PERSON 3-COURSE DINNER: $32 PER PERSON

TWO LUNCH OR DINNER ENTREES: $15

3-COURSE LUNCH: $16 PER PERSON 3-COURSE DINNER: $30 PER PERSON

Circa 1922

OR

3-COURSE DINNER FOR TWO: $65

The Little Dipper

8 N Front Street • (910) 762-1922 www.circa1922.com

138 South Front St. • (910) 251-0433 www.littledipperfondue.com

American

Fondue

3-COURSE DINNER: $23.95 PER PERSON

4-COURSE DINNER: $50 PER COUPLE OR $26 PER PERSON

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Grace on 2nd Seafood

301 North Water Street (910) 343-1818 www.ruthschris-wilmington.com Steak House

3-COURSE DINNER: $35 PER PERSON

The George on the Riverwalk

121 Grace Street • (910) 833-5787 www.graceon2nd.com Seafood

2-COURSE LUNCH: $20.00 PER PERSON 4-COURSE DINNER: $35.00 PER PERSON

The District Kitchen & Cocktails

Nikki’s Fresh Gourmet & Sushi Downtown

16 South Front Street • (910) 772-9151 www.nikkissushibar.com Sushi

March 29

4-COURSE DINNER: $25 PER PERSON

eat. drink. indu

Yo Saké

33 South Front St. (910) 763-3172 www.yosake.com Sushi

4-COURSE DINNER: $25 PER PERSON

Caprice Bistro

10 Market St. • (910) 815-0810 www.capricebistro.com

128 South Water St. • (910) 763-2052 www.thegeorgerestaurant.com

1001 N 4th Street • (910) 769-6565 www.districtnc.com

Seafood

American

French

3-COURSE LUNCH: $20 PER PERSON 3-COURSE DINNER: $28 PER PERSON

2-COURSE LUNCH: $11 PER PERSON 3-COURSE DINNER: $30 PER PERSON

PRIX FIXE: $29.95 PER PERSON

Shuckin’ Shack

Casey’s Buffet

109 Market St • (910) 833-8622 www.theshuckinshack.com

5559 Oleander Dr. • (910) 798-2913 www.caseysbuffet.com

Seafood

LUNCH SPECIAL: $8.99 PER PERSON DINNER SPECIALS: SELECT APPS $4.99-$6.99 CUP OF SOUP $3.99 DINNER FEATURES: MARKET PRICE

El Cerro Grande

341 S. College Rd.: (910) 793-0035 5120 S. College Rd.: (910) 790-8727 1051 Military Cutoff Rd.: (910) 679-4209 www.elcerrogranderestaurant.com

Southern

Mexican

ADULT DINNER BUFFET (4PM-9PM): $12.99 PER PERSON

LUNCH FOR TWO: $12 PER COUPLE DINNER FOR TWO: $16 PER COUPLE TWO SIZZLING FAJITAS: $22

SENIORS (62+) $11.99 • KIDS (4-12) $5.99 • KIDS (3 and under) FREE

32 32 encore encore |march |march 29 april 4,4,2017 2017 www.encorepub.com | march29 29---april april4, 2017|||www.encorepub.com www.encorepub.com

enc

FOR COMPL WWW.WILMINGTON ■ DOWNTOWN ■ NORTH WILMINGTON ■ MIDTOWN

In

Okami Japanes Hibachi Steakhous

614 South College Rd. • (910) 399-3 www.okamisteakhouse.com Japanese

3-COURSE DINNER: $24 PER PERSON

core’s

Antonio’s Pizza and Pasta

3501 Oleander Dr #2 • (910) 228-5999 5120 South College Rd. • (910) 792-0000 www.antoniospizzaandpasta.com Italian

2-COURSE LUNCH: $10.99 PER PERSON 3-COURSE DINNER: $19.99 PER PERSON

Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar 5035 Market St. • (910) 392-6313 www.hieronymusseafood.us

- April 5, 2017

ulge.

■ WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH ■ SOUTH WILMINGTON ■ HAMPSTEAD

Jax 5th Ave. Deli & Ale House

4238 Market St. • (910) 762-6333 www.billsfrontporch.com Pub and Grill

3-COURSE DINNER WITH BEER PAIRING: $25 PER PERSON

La Costa Mexican Restaurant

3617 Market St. • (910) 772-9000 8024 Market St. • (910) 686-8210 5622 Oleander Dr. • (910) 392-6006 www.lacostamexicanrestaurantwilmington.com Mexican

3-COURSE DINNER: $24 PER PERSON

Italian Bistro

885 Town Center Drive (910) 256-1187 www.meltingpot.com

8211 Market St (910) 686-7774 www.ItalianBistroNC.com

Fondue

Italian

4- COURSES: $25 PER PERSON

4-COURSE DINNER FOR TWO: $60.00

CHILD’S 3-COURSE AVAILABLE FOR $18 PER CHILD

Includes a bottle of wine (red or white)

Bone and Bean BBQ

ncludes alcohol

3366 m

4-COURSE DINNER: $25 PER PERSON

The Melting Pot

LETE MENUS GO TO NRESTAURANTWEEK.COM

se se

Seafood

Bill’s Front Porch Pub & Brewery

3530 Carolina Beach Rd. (910) 833-7383 www.boneandbeanbbq.com Barbecue

3-COURSES FOR TWO: $40.00 PER COUPLE

Boca Bay

The Pub

2012 Eastwood Road, 910) 679-8101 www.sweetnsavory.pub

American & Sports Pub

3-COURSE DINNER: $21.95 PER PERSON Available after 5pm

South Beach Grill

www.facebook.com/JaxFifthAveDeliAleHouse

2025 Eastwood Road (910) 256-1887 www.bocabayrestaurant.com

100 South Lumina Avenue (910) 256-4646 www.southbeachgrillwb.com

American

Seafood

Seafood & American

LUNCH OR DINNER FOR 2: $18.70

3-COURSE DINNER: $26.95 PER PERSON

2-COURSE LUNCH: $11.95 PER PERSON 3-COURSE DINNER: $27.95 PER PERSON

5046 New Centre Dr. • (910) 859-7374

Capt’n Bill Backyard Gr

4240 Market St. • (910) 76 www.captnbills.com Seafood

SEAFOOD SHOWCASE: $25 PER COUPL

JohnnyLuke KitchenBar

5500 Market St., #130 • (910) www.johnnylukeskb.c American

“PICK 2” SMALL P LUNCH: $8 PER PE 3-COURSE DINN $28 PER PERSO

Osteria Cicch

1125-K Military Cuto 910) 256-7476 5104 S. College R (910) 392-3490 www.osteria-cicchett Italian

3 COURSE DINN $21.95 PER PERS

Sweet n Savo

1611 Pavillion Plac (910) 256-0115 www.sweetnsavory.c American

3-COURSE LUNC $14.95 PER PERS

Served 11am-4pm

The Village C

47 S. Hampstead Villag (910) 821-1234 www.villagecafehampstea

American

2-COURSE LUNC $11 PER PERSO 3-COURSE DINN $18 PER PERSO

encore | march 29 encore - april 4, 2017 |29www.encorepub.com 33 |march - april 4, 2017 | www.encorep

SPECIAL SECTION>>ENCORE BEST OF 2017

IT’S JAWESOME!

2017 Best Of hosts Pineapple-Shaped Lamps announce winners at annual awards party

A

BY: SHEA CARVER

nd here we are again: another year, another Best Of.

The planning that begins every fall to put on Wilmington’s official Best Of readers’ poll has evolved from hand-counting ballots in the ‘80s and ‘90s, to allowing computers to tally results via online voting.

Flimsy Best Of certificates given to 75 or so winners has blossomed into hand-built plaques awarded to 137 people, places, businesses, arts organizations, and more.

A small party that started in the early aughts has evolved into a full-blown fundraiser for a local nonprofit—all to honor winners and raise awareness for a great cause. encore’s Best Of is in constant flux of reinvention, and every year we feel like it’s shedding brighter lights on all the important parts of our community.

We appreciate every person who takes time to fill out the nomination and final-voting ballots, the businesses who campaign and

donate food, raffle items and even money to our fundraiser, and to all the folks who volunteer and help us host the benefit: local comedy troupe Pineapple-Shaped Lamps; Rich and Artie of Brooklyn Arts Center; local band Da Howlies; Chris Brehmer Photography; Cape Fear Sound and Soundwave Audio; and Surfers Healing, our 2017 beneficiary, who oversaw a lot of the planning and organizing with so many helpful volunteers.

Surfers Healing Wrightsville Beach NC is a satellite camp of the national nonprofit, Surfers Healing—a foundation that enriches the lives of people living with autism by exposing them to the unique experience of surfing.

Last year the local chapter served close to 400 families affected by autism during their annual summer surf camp. The nonprofit is all about the “ohana,” the love, the families coming together for one perfect day—maybe their only perfect day all year long. encore and Surfers Healing partnered to raise funds for the surf camp through various events over the last four months. We held a holiday 50/50 raffle that raised $3,050 in December, followed by the Wine Not Friday held

SURFERS VERSUS GREASERS Pineapple-Shaped Lamps do the opening skit at encore’s The Beach Ball best of fundraiser, a la “West Side Story” 1950’s beach party, as house band Da Howlies play in the background. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography.

at Whole Foods the night before the Best Of party, which raised an additional $495. Ticket sales to the Best Of totaled $6,685, with other funds raised through donations, raffles and sponsors, all totaling $2,569. With the community’s help, we were able to raise $12,799 for Surfers Healing Wrightsville Beach NC, and after costs for the party, they will have $9,276 to utilize for the 2017 June camp.

The Best Of party was a smash thanks to The Beach Ball theme: Are you a surfer or a greaser? Folks donned their spiffiest floral beach wear, perfect for an unusual 80-degree day on Feb. 25. Others slicked back their pompadours and took a chance with black leather to showcase a too-cool-forschool vibe. But the winners of our costume contest were the Baywatchers from Slice of Life who scored local gift certificates to Fork n Cork, The District, The Fortunate Glass, and PT’s Olde Fashioned Grill.

With surf tunes blaring through the house, Da Howlies playing their brand of “da kine Hawaiian music” and Pineapple-Shaped Lamps zipping through many island themed and West Side Story skits—“Jaws” soundtrack included—the 450-deep crowd was entertained through the announcement of 137 award winners. They ate from nominees who were kind enough to donate lots of delicious grub throughout the night, with drinks in hand and smiles on point for all the pics Chris Brehmer captured.

Winner of Encore’s 2017 Best Bottle Shop in Wilmington, NC 1007 North Fourth Street • Wilmington, NC 28401 • 910.399.1081 • info@palatenc.com • www.palatenc.com 34 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

encore culled over 30,000 votes for its 2017 Best Of, between nominees and final votes. Anyone with a valid email address can vote as part of our annual Best Of contest, wherein winners are chosen by the public, not encore staff members. New this

year, throughout our Best Of reporting will be the reveal of percentages by which contestants won.

While we allow local businesses and groups to campaign so their patrons/fans will vote for them, we do lay a few ground rules in campaigning practices. No, we’re not the NC Board of Elections but we want to play fair, so we ask voters:

1.) No stuffing the ballot box! Don’t vote under multiple email addresses, or encourage customers and employees to do so. If you have a list of e-mail addresses that don’t belong to you, please, don’t fill out ballots in their names.

2.) Do not entice patrons/fans into voting by offering specials, discounts or prizes in exchange for votes.

Folks who missed voting will have to wait until fall 2017 when we start the process over again. And anyone who missed out on our fundraiser for Surfers Healing can still help: The nonprofit will hold their golf tournament on Mar. 31 at Castle Bay Country Club. For information, contact Rob Kelly at 910-352-6493 or e-mail him at robkelly06@ hotmail.com.

Nonprofits who are interested in partnering with encore for the 2018 Best Of will be able to apply at the end of April; it will be a yearlong partnership not only for Best Of but to help in other areas of promoting the nonprofit and their numerous events. Check www.encorepub.com for information on how to apply.

And, now, let us introduce the 2017 class of encore’s Best Of Wilmington...

Cheers!

62% votes

MOVING COMPANY: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK In 2015 Wilmington city officials predicted New Hanover County’s population to increase by 56 percent between 2010 and 2040. As more housing developments, townhomes and apartment complexes continue to pop up, more people are likely to need help moving into them. Enter: Two Men and A Truck, who encore readers have awarded again as Best Moving Company.

Two Men and a Truck’s general manager, Nicole Utz, says they’re truly honored and we grateful for the win each year. “We truly work and live by the company’s mission and core values,” she says, “[which includes] The Grandma Rule: to treat everyone the way you would want your Grandma to be treated.”

Founded by Brig and Jon Sorber in in Lansing, Michigan, Two Men and a Truck now spans over 32 states. Aiding Wilmingtonians in their moving needs, the company offers customizable options to make the process as convenient as possible—from packing upon request to having the option to unload only.

“We offer a full range of services for residential and commercial customers,” Utz tells, “including moving, packing, unpacking, local, internal, long distance, climate control storage and free on-site estimates. Our crew is trained to handle specialty items such as pianos and safes.”

Two Men and A Truck’s interior design warehouse provides receiving, inspections, climate-control storage, delivery and installation services. While customers are always welcome to stop by their office to purchase from a full line of packing material, the com-

DENTIST: BOZART FAMILY DENISTRY

54% votes

When it comes to teeth cleaning or dental work in general, folks often have much apprehension about dentist appointments. But the kind and gentle dentists and dental hygenists at Bozart Family Denistry are slaying fear left and right to ensure patients are happy and healthy when leaving the office.

“We’ve found fear can be broken down into this helpful acronym: ‘false evidence appearing real,’” Dr. Bozart explains. “So what we’ve learned is understanding is usually the best weapon to allay fear of the dentist—or any fear for that matter. We take time with the patient to slow down, explain the procedure step by step, answer any questions that they may have regarding those steps, and setting the right expectations for whatever that procedure may entail along the way. Once people understand the facts, the false emotion of fear, which is almost always based on false assumptions, tends to melt away.”

And if that still doesn’t help, well, Xanax will. But, first, Bozart goes for education and understanding. They also have a highly trained staff who work toward quality care, and keep up to date with the latest technology and medical innovations in the dentistry world, like their 3D panorama X-ray machine or their CEREC machine to help create custom-fit crowns.

“We’ve been hard at work, building an in-house, fully functional dental lab as a part of our most recent Monkey Junction expansion,” Dr. Bozart says. “[Its] creation will help us maintain some of the highest quality control standards, as well as unparalleled convenience for our patients. Instead of outsourcing items, such as implants, crowns and dentures to non-local labs, mostly based in China—where quality control standards can be mediocre at best—we’re now able to control the entire process from the initial consult, through to the procedure and follow up visits.”

Total control of the dental process, from beginning to end, helps patients receive topnotch results and ultimate convenience. As does their Easy Pay program, which Dr. Bo-

WOMEN’S CLOTHING: ISLAND PASSAGE When it comes to making sure women are the best dressed on the block, Island Passage keeps scoring the wins year after year. 2017 is no exception, as they begin to assess their product lines and what they’re offering to keep all threads up to date.

“We take into account our customers opinions and requests and try to meet them by adding new brands and styles,” owner Kristyn Prentice tells.

The store has something for every age and every budget across multiple looks. “We pride ourselves in ensuring that everyone is able to find something special for their closet at Island Passage,” Prentice continues. “We believe fashion and style should be accessible to everyone.”

While they offer multiple looks, from jeans to shorts, dresses to skirts, blouses to tees, over the last few years, Prentice notes they’ve upped their dress game. “We have become known for our dress selection from casual beach styles to the perfect dress for a night out,” she tells. “We also strive to offer

goods & services

pany’s website offers free moving quotes as well. Plus, folks can find moving tips, checklists and even a guide to moving with kids.

“Our busy season starts to gear up in April and continues through October,” Utz adds.

“We strongly suggest scheduling your move three weeks in advance.”

Aside from serving thousands of individuals, families and businesses, Two Men and a Truck have settled into the nonprofit community as well. Last September 2016, their Wilmington locale participated in the NHRMC Foundation Caring for Kids Radiothon, wherein they helped raise funds for new medical equipment. Their annual spring Movers for Moms campaign is just around the corner, too. They collect and deliver goods to the Domestic Violence Shelter of Wilmington prior to Mother’s Day. For more details and updates, folks can visit www.twomenandatruck.com.

Also helping people move forward with their lives and belongings are Few Moves (20%) and Miracle Movers (18%).

zart created when he opened the office 11 years ago. They do in-house, 0-percent financing, thus helping all patients, not just ones with insurance. Folks can pay as little as $50 a month for a service. But that’s not the only way in which they reach out to others. They work with nonprofits and youth programs, too.

“We believe once you’ve been blessed with success in business, such as we have, it’s our obligation, as well as our greatest joy, to give back to those less fortunate in the community who helped to create our success in the first place,” Dr. Bozart tells. “Each year we support dozens of worthy causes in the Wilmington area. From our local high school athletic programs, to working with special needs children with the great folks at Miracle Field, and more.”

Yet, their biggest give-back event annually comes from their “100,000 Holiday Smile Makeover.” They have hosted it every Christmas for three years now and receive thousands of application annually. They choose someone whose dental needs are great but can’t be afforded from unfortunate circumstances. “Applicants are dealing with anything ranging from battles with cancer, to domestic abuse, and everything you can imagine inbetween,” Dr. Bozart says.

“It’s our greatest joy each and every year to be able to give people the ability to smile again, some of which haven’t done so in years,” Dr. Bozart says. “After all, giving the gift of self-esteem during is the gift that keeps on giving year after year.”

Other dentists taking spots on the poll are Salling and Tate General Denistry (24%) and Sandra Miles Denistry (22%).

42% votes styles that speak to our contemporary Bohemian style that is Island Passage.”

For spring and summer, shoppers can expect to see various shades of pink and blush emerge. They’re also bringing in various vibrant tropical prints. “These seem like obvious trends, especially for our location, but this year it’s all about refined and modern silhouettes,” she explains.

Island Passage also believes in giving back to the community. They have announced “A Year Giving Love,” wherein they are devoting three months each to three charities. “We will kick off with PEAR animal rescue on April 1,” Prentice tells. “We will offer a 15-percent discount when a customer donates $5 during April, May and June. After that we are doing web fundraising for Martha’s Kitchen and Sunset Park Elementry.”

Other women’s clothing stores dressing the poll are Edge of Urge (36%) and Monkee’s of Wilmington (22%).

BOZART FAMILY DENISTRY SCORES AGAIN: Kelly Colwell accepts the award for Best Dentist. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography.

encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 35

KIDS’ CLOTHING STORE: ONCE UPON A CHILD There’s a deal everyday when shopping at Once Upon a Child (OUAC) because of their already low prices on anything from gently used clothes and Halloween costumes, to baby gear, like high chairs, walkers, exersaucers and Pack n’ Plays.

www.juliasflorist.com THANK YOU READERS! for voting us

BEST FLORIST 2017

Serving Wilmington for over 25 years with flowers and gifts for all occasions: get well, new baby, anniversary, sympathy, or just because!

“We’re a one-stop-shop for all your kids needs,” OUAC’s general manager, Vikki Cook, tells. “Our store is easy to shop because of our amazing organization, clothing is organized by size and color.”

Lots of encore readers agree with Cook, as they’ve voted OUAC as Best Kids Clothing Store for the seventh time this year.

Whether families are looking for clothes for kids to wear to school or the park, they can often find quality threads at a deal. Everything is 70 percent off retail prices every day.

“We also always offer a military discount to honor men and women who serve or have served our country,” Cook adds.

Frequent shoppers should note OUAC’s Customer Appreciation Cards, too. For every $10 spent or sold, customers get a stamp. (Psst: Sundays are double-stamp days!) Full cards get 20-percent off a future purchase, excluding new items.

OUAC is always looking to buy products as well. They offer cash on the spot in ex-

48% votes change for gently used kids’ brand name clothes, toys, books, equipment, and furniture. Simply gather it up, and they’ll make an offer hard to reject! They list their most wanted items online at www.onceuponachildwilmington.com, which currently include high chairs, swings, jump-a-roos, strollers, and playards.

Cook credits her friendly staff and great customer service for their series of wins. And while OUAC is always striving to serves its community in way of affordable clothes and other children’s items, Cook says they’ve been on the receiving end of Wilmington’s generosity as well.

“Last year we had a storm hit our store, a microburst, and we had to be closed for almost a month due to all the damage,” she tells. “We had a large outpouring from the community with people offering to help!

It was definitely a challenge, but we were grateful no one was hurt, and all the damage was just material things.”

Shoppers can see what’s hot on the wracks at Once Upon a Child by visiting their shop at 4719 J New Centre Dr. Carter’s (26%) and Kid to Kid (25%) are also where folks like to shop for their kiddos.

PRINT SHOP: DOCK STREET PRINTING Downtown’s famed Dock Street Printing has served thousands of customers since first opening in 1973. Many of those faces have become lifelong friends.

“It’s always like seeing an old friend,” owner Cindy Meyers tells. “We love to catch up with our customers: ‘How have you been?

How’s the family? How’s the pet?’”

e

BEST OF 2 0 1 7

W I N N E R

900 S Kerr Ave • Wilmington, NC 28403 36 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

Quite frankly, that kind of attention isn’t something folks will get online for their printing needs. Aside from the misconception that ordering business cards or invitations through online companies is quicker and cheaper, Dock Street can compete with the pricing and the expediency tenfold.

“Our prices are very competitive,” Meyers tells. “There’s no shipping involved, and we have the added advantage of seeing something on paper prior to pulling the trigger on an entire order. That’s a big bonus for local.”

Dock Street does standard business stationary orders, as well as brochures, head shots, birthday cards, flyers, cookbooks, and bulletins. “We even do the occasional love letter,” Meyers admits.

Always on the up and up in looking for new wow-factor products, Dock Street currenty offers UV-coated postcards, business cards and line cards. They’re printed on

40% votes

thicker 14- or 16-point paper and are super smooth with glossy finishes. “We also have a velvet-finished 16-point suede business card,” Meyers shares. “These beauties have a distinct soft surface texture that can be accented with a spot of raised spot UV.”

Aside from printing needs—whether it’s printing out an email from a phone or making a digital xerographic photocopy—Dock Street also handles faxing for clients. “People are totally blown away that we still do faxing,” Meyers quips. “But we do! We also handle coil-bound reports, membership cards, raffle and event tickets, and more.”

They work with numerous events and fundraisers annually, in order to give back to the community at large. They are printing sponsors for Cape Fear Roller Girls and the Cape Fear Highland Games. They also adore animals.

“Because of this we have a collection jar instead of a tip jar, and we accept towels, blankets and pet food to distribute to pet rescue groups,” Meyers tells.

Other printing shops making a mark on the poll are Alphagraphics (38%) and Print Works (22%).

RECORD STORE: GRAVITY RECORDS

56% votes

In 2016 encore spoke with Karl Kuehn, one part of ILM’s three-piece indie-rock/ punk trio Museum Mouth, about the significance of vinyl culture and local record stores to artists like them. “It’s ridiculously important to us,” he told. “Before we signed with Rory/Equal Vision we didn’t really have the ability to [distribute] our records to bigger retailers, so shops like Gravity [Records], Nice Price in Raleigh and Lunchbox records in Charlotte were the only way to get our music into people’s hands that weren’t physically at a show to buy it from us.”

if they can order it for customers. Some of their most popular-selling artists as of late have been Infinity Crush, Museum Mouth and Prince. “[We] love local music,” she adds. “Prince isn’t from Wilmington but we wish he was!”

Aside from lots of new and used vinyl coming in every week, Gravity is playing host to more and more music and comedy shows as of late. Most recent performances were See Through Dresses and Truth Club on March 21 and Kississippi, Prince Daddy & the Hyena, and Infinity Crush on March 26.

People like Kuehn also appreciate vinyl as a fun way to consume music, such as getting a tangible record with groovy colors and design. “I’m on a quest to put out the prettiest record of all time,” he said of Museum Mouth’s series of blue and pink/ magenta albums.

“We hope to host all of the detectives from ‘Law and Order’ (‘SVU,’ obviously) this summer,” White quips. “Tickets will be sold in the parking lot across the street where one million people almost crash their cars into each other every day.”

The vinyl reboot we’ve seen in the past 10 or 15 years has not only kept the lights on at Gravity Records for 13 years, but local enthusiasts have now voted Matt Keen’s store Best Place to Buy Music for the 11th time.

“We truly appreciate all of the love and support of the Wilmington community,” PUT THE NEEDLE ON THE RECORD: Matt Keen, Gravity Records owner, scores another win for Charlotte White, Gravity’s self-proclaimed Best Record Store 2017. Keen also fixes and refurbishes broken turntables for vinyl lovers. Photo by Best Employee, says. “[We] have some huge Shea Carver things in store for 2017! . . . Statues made from melted records. Ice sculptures of each employee. Win more awards.”

National Record Store Day also is just around the corner on Saturday, April 22.

The best way to keep up with the haps at Gravity is to follow them on Facebook and Twitter, where they announce latest arrivals, random discount specials and more.

Wilmington music fans also like to shop for tunes at Yellow Dog Discs (29%) and Angie’s Records (15%).

White, who also spearheads social media and sales, says they have fun and listen to a lot of great records to keep the best in stock for customers. Even if they don’t have it, they’ll see

35% r GARDEN STORE: TRANSPLANTED GARDEN votes e s Spring has sprung, y’all! Perhaps it’s hard driving by!” e to tell at times, as the temps jump from 80 With any downturn in the economy, it seems to 30, but it’s here (as if readers couldn’t tell gardening and garden supplies always take a from the pollen covering everything!). Folks hit, but spring is always a different story. It’s s with green thumbs are gearing up for plantdefinitely Transplanted Garden’s busy season - ing season. At least they should be, accordand and it’s tough keeping plants in stock. k ing to Tom Ericson and Allen Sabin, co-own“We have a relatively small location, and it - ers of The Transplanted Garden. seems plants go out faster than we can get o “Because of our climate, you need to plant them in some days,” Ericson explains. o before the heat of summer comes on,” Erp They even have to cut back on the ocicson explains. “Heat, not cold, kills more plants. We also need to feed, feed, feed the casional classes and lectures they orgad plants. Sandy soil holds little to no nutrients, nize for garden clubs. “From March through k so feeding once in the spring is like feeding Mother’s Day there is just no time for that,” - your kids once a week. It just doesn’t work!” Ericson confirms. d They do offer planting instructions and prunEricson’s sage advice is not without merit. o He helped open the South 16th Street store ing tips on their website at www.transplantedin 2000 and has lost track of how many times garden.com. Their newsletter carries weekly r his garden center has won the award for Best specials, new arrivals, and tips, like how and , Local Garden Store. However, he is certain when to stay ahead of insects or be on the t they offer the best quality plants, pottery and lookout for them. Folks will learn about orgaadvice, which continues to place them at the nizations skills, too, like when to tend to the garden, per fertilizing and pruning. n top of encore’s readers poll in 2017.

Also sprouting up on our readers’ poll for t “We get people that stop in for the first time that tell us they have driven by forever,” Best Local Garden Store are The Plant Place he tells. “They are always amazed at the (34%) and Farmers Supply Co. (31%). selection when they finally do stop. So, stop

“Best Chinese Restaurant!”

Celebrating 29 years in Wilmington!

Thank you, Wilmington & surrounding area friends, again, for adding another beautiful chapter in our history book.

Our vision is to provide our customers with the most exciting dining experience while they are in our home; that we see to it that every customer in our restaurant leave with the anticipation of coming back.

419 South College Rd. • (910) 799-1426 www.szechuan132.com encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 37

food & beverage

RIBS: MISSION BBQ

43% votes In 2014 the military and first responder-friendly restaurant chain, Mission BBQ, opened its doors off College Road in Wilmington.

Over the last two years, they’ve continued making their Best Of stamp in sweeping the Best Ribs category. But remaining a go-to establishment takes constant work, according to general manager John Hudson.

“We have to continue to introduce ourselves to the community of Wilmington,” he tells. “We are still a relatively new brand and meet new people daily that have never been to our restaurant or given us the honor of cooking for them. The city of Wilmington and surrounding communities are growing rapidly, and we are trying to keep up our word of mouth to match the growth speed.”

Not only are praise-worthy words falling from happy customers’ mouths; award-winning ribs are falling off the bone with every bite they take. Mission BBQ keeps the cooking technique simple. They monitor the meat and right amount of smoke, wrap them precisely at the right time, and then don’t pull them ‘til they are falling off the bone.

“We dry-rub and oak-smoke our ribs for three-and-a-half hours, LICK-SMACKIN’ DELISH: John Hudson of Mission BBQ takes home the award for Best and let the customer decide what to sauce them with,” Hudson Ribs 2017. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography. continues. In fact, Mission is unique in that they offer various styles and sauces from across America. They sell Carolina pulled pork, And they back to every community the franchise goes into, by doing Texas brisket and sausage, and ribs straight from the heart of St. Louis and charitable events and fundraisers. “We are here to serve those who serve Kansas City. They also have seven traditional sauces, including sweet, us,” Hudson continues. “We are in a unique position to be able to serve spicy, smoky, tangy, or even sauces with Old Bay seasoning. current and veteran members of our military, police, fire/rescue and first “We offer new promotions every six or seven weeks to keep our menu responders, ,and do all we can to show our appreciation for those who fresh for our customers, too,” Hudson explains. “We offer different proteins, sacrifice for us.” from steaks or prime rib to salmon at different times of the year. We also encore readers also love Poor Piggy’s BBQ and Catering (37%) and pair them with seasonal sides, such as potato salad or baked sweet pota- Bone and Bean BBQ (20%). toes, and our delicious desserts, such as peach cobbler.”

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Interested applicants should email their résumé and cover letter to john@encorepub.com 38 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

46% votes

STEAK: PORT CITY CHOP HOUSE “We start with high-quality center-cut certified-Angus beef steaks, season them well, and sear them over an open flame on cast iron grill grates,” says Brian Nave, Port City Chop House general manager. They have taken home at least a dozen Best Steak awards to date. “[The Best Of award] means the community appreciates the quality of our menu and level of dining experience they will receive,” Nave says. “Many of our guests have been regulars for a long time and continue to support this locally owned business.”

Port City Chop House’s (PCCH) executive chef,Matt Kahrs, has been with the restaurant for 17 years. Before he was searing perfect steaks, he graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and worked in several restaurants from Boston, MA, to Greensboro, NC. Cooking the best flavors from the menu combined with great prices remains the winning combination for the restaurant.

They currently are running a $22 lunch special for two and $60 dinner for two, as well as $10 appetizers at the bar from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Chop House dinner menu is chock full of tasty appetizers from tuna crudo and crab cocktail, to baked brie and fried calamari PIZZA PUCKERS: The staff of Slice of Life took home two awards for Best Pizza and Best Late-Night Eatery. Yet, the also won the costume contest at the Best Of Awards Party, The Beach Ball, wherein they donned their best in Baywatch wear. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography.

PIZZA AND LATE-NIGHT EATERY: SLICE OF LIFE Porter’s Neck residents will be happy to hear they can ride the Slice of Life train in the near future. Owner Ray Worrell is breaking ground near Lowe’s Home Improvement come fall 2017. The 120-seat eatery will have garage and barn doors so the dining experience can be inside or outdoors as the weather changes. What will not change, however, is the consistency of Slice’s food, including the Best Pizza 2017, according to encore readers.

“We like to keep it simple and consistent,” Worrell tells. Thus Slice doesn’t really add new and fancy gourmet pies like other eateries. But folks will find happiness in their vegetarian or pepperoni or plain ol’ cheese all day long. And the downtown locations stay pumping late-night, too, serving hundreds upon hundred of barflies exiting their watering holes come last call. Fridays and Saturdays get packed on the Market Street at the corner of Second, where the downtown location has secured Best Late Night Eatery.

“We will have 75 or so pre-cooked pizzas ready to go on weekend nights,”

40% votes

49% votes

Worrell says. They reheat with added toppings as need be.

“I believe our preparation for owning Slice really came from working in the business for 20 years,” Worrell notes.

He worked at Slice of Life for two years before owning it. “The most eye-opening for me was when we opened the Military Cutoff location 10 years ago.”

With the beach crowd, Worrell learned his demographic was more diverse. They catered to more families than the downtown location, so they added more low-top tables for children and the elderly, instead of the high-top bar-friendly seating.

Monkey Junction opened thereafter in the Pine Valley area, and they host trivia every Monday at 7:30 p.m. as well as live music on Tuesdays at 9 p.m. The downtown location does trivia on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.

Other pizzerias slicing up the poll include Elizabeth’s (31%) and Pizzetta’s (29%). Late-night eateries include Jimbo’s (26%) and Front Street Brewery (25%).

for starters. Delicate salads and blue-crab bisque also serve as fine beginnings before the main course.

Signature steaks include a choice of soup or salad and choice of one side item—as well can come with additions like lobster tail or sauteed onions and mushrooms. Steaks aren’t the only mains on the expansive list of entrees. Crab-stuffed flounder topped with a lemon butter sauce and roasted lobster tail are among seafood items, while chicken marsala and florentine are poultry dishes to enjoy.

“There will be a few new items coming onto the menu in April,” Nave divulges. “We usually keep most of our menu the same with standard cuts of beef, but like to add a few new things twice a year to keep some fresh options for our regular guests and try to attract some people who might not have dined with us before.”

Eager diners can visit their Eastwood Road locale or see their menu at www. chophousesofnc.com.

Also making the cut for Best Steak: Ruth’s Chris Steak House (30%) and Texas Roadhouse (24%).

k n Tha , u yo

! n o t ing

Wilm

We look forward to stuffing you full with the BEST BURRITO in town as long as you’ll let us!

4002 Oleander Dr. • 910-799-2919 flamingamysburritobarn.com encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 39

BREWERY AND APPETIZERS: FRONT STREET BREWERY

42% votes

39% votes

When it comes to beer and bites, Front Street Brewery is taking over the poll for Best Brewery and Best Appetizers in 2017. It’s no surprise, really, as the 22-year-old restaurant has accomplished many things in its young life: 1) It was the first brewery in ILM; and 2) It’s become one of the most happening restaurants to be and be seen downtown.

Folks can enjoy the sips with their $1.99 mug of the day everyday and all mugs 7.2 percent ABV and under are $1.99 on Tuesdays. “If there is one thing we are known for it’s good beer,” Craig praises. “If there are two things we are known for: It’s good beer and the best damn nachos you have ever had the pleasure of putting in your mouth.”

They continue to feed the masses thanks to the wellequipped hands of their executive chef/GM, Chuck Archer, and their head chef, Brandon “Rooster” Lance, who devise and make all recipes from scratch. The two oversee a large menu, including 18 appetizers from which to choose.

Their famed nachos are topped with slowcooked, hand-pulled sweet chicken (a secret recipe), homemade queso, diced tomatoes, black beans, jalapeños, shredded cheese, spicy sour cream, and scallions. Craig says indulging them with Dram Tree Scottish Ale alongside is the perfect pairing. “This recipe is constantly bringing people who are afraid to drink dark beer over to the dark side,” Craig touts. “Rich chocolate and caramel malts shine in this malty, semi-sweet beer— and at 7.2 percent ABV that can be dangerously delightful.”

“The Low-Country grit cakes are an amazing addition to our select half-price appetizers,” sales and public-relations manager Ellie Craig says. Half-priced apps are available from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and after 10 p.m. everyday at FSB. In fact, their grit cakes come for only $2.49 during half-priced hours. “They are our take on a Southern staple: golden fried cheesy grits served with a rich Cajun Creole sauce and topped with scallions and shredded cheese.”

Also new to the app menu is a vegetarian-friendly dish, portobello quesadilla—served with marinated mushrooms, sauteed spinach, red onions, and Gouda between two tortillas. FSB will drop an entire update to their full menu soon, with the addition of poutine (gravy-covered fries, served with cheese curds).

Other items worth a pairing are FSB’s fried-green tomatoes with chipotle remoulade and pimiento cheese, with their Coastal Kolsch, as well as the Buffalo fried shrimp, to be complimented by Port City IPA. But why take Craig’s word for it? Diners who haven’t tried a taste of FSB can head to 9 N. Front Street from 11:30 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week.

BITES AND BREWS: Ellie Craig accepts both Best Appetizer and Best Brewery awards for Front Street Brewery. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography

“As for beers, our head brewer, Christopher McGarvey, and his assistant brewers, Hugh “Hootie” Slack and Harrison Parker, have gone over each of our flagship recipes with a finetooth comb and have developed some of the best beers we have ever produced,” Craig praises.

They churn out 11 beers on tap, with five flagships available year-round and rotating seasonal selections that change about every two weeks. “By constantly evolving and improving our beer and the way we brew, we manage to stay ahead of the curve.”

WRITE-IN CATEGORY: BEST BAGELS, BEACH BAGELS

Other breweries making a splash on the poll are Wilmington Brewing Company (31%) and Waterline Brewing Co. (27%), while appetizers worth many bites come from Circa 1922 (38%) and Hell’s Kitchen (23%).

52% votes

Oh, the bagel! That beloved round of goodness—topped with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, made with cinnamon and raisins or blueberries. Or just served plain with cream cheese. Or topped with the best meats and veggies for a perfect lunch. Or maybe with Southern delicacies like pork belly and pimiento cheese for a taste of decadence. Beach Bagels takes the write-in category this year for Best Bagels (which will become an official category on the 2018 poll).

tomers, as tasted in The Beast. “Egg, bacon, jalapeño-cheddar cream cheese, avocado, tomato—it was the creation of two sisters who happened to be very loyal and long-time customers,” he tells. “It is now our number-two best selling sandwich.”

Beach Bagels serves up 18 flavorss. Their most popular is by far the everything version, topped with all the zingy spices and seeds, like poppy and sesame, onion, garlic and salt. It can be used to make one of their seven breakfast sandwiches or nine lunch items. Plus, they do omelets and salads.

“We bake Ciabatta and Kaiser rolls, as well as biscuits,” he continues. “And we carry four kinds of wraps—plain, sun-dried tomato, wheat, and spinach—along with white, wheat and Gluten-free bread.”

“They are made with love!” promises owner Tony Dinorcia. “The bagels are boiled first, then baked—the traditional way. It’s a more time-consuming process than what many other bagel bakeries use but makes for a better bagel.”

“We have so many ingredients, we can accommodate almost everyone’s food fancy,” Dinorcia tells. “All our menu choices are so good, it’s hard for me to pick a favorite.”

Last year, he decided to do a revamp after having bought the business in 2015. A native Long Islander, the newly minted Wilmingtonian upped the ante on flavor profiles and appreciation for cus-

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The number one comes with Jose (egg, bacon, sausage, provolone, cream cheese, jalapeños, onion) and the #AnnieWB (turkey, bacon, swiss, lettuce, tomato, mayo). Lotta Lox (smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, tomato, onion) will win over traditionalists, and customers who want more options than bagels will be pleased by Beach Bagels’ additional offerings. They do more than just bagels.

Dinorcia will make more changes to the menu soon. It won’t be an overhaul, as much as tweaks to keep customers happier.

Other write-in category vote-getters are Best Metal Shop, GS Metalworks (37%) and Best Dance Studio, Techniques in Motion (11%).

FAST FOOD: CHICK-FIL-A We all have seen those silly cows climbing up billboards to scrawl across the canvas, “Eat mor chikin.” It’s perhaps one of the more effective fast-food campaigns.

Paired with great customer service and, well, great fried-chicken sandwiches, it’s really no surprise to see Chick-fil-A dominate the Best Fast Food category yet again on encore’s poll.

Franchisee of Chick-Fil-A at Mayfaire, Billy Lynch, is proud of his staff and restaurant for making such an impact on customers—and so many of them, in fact. Collaboratively, local Chick-Fil-As do upward of 50,000 transactions weekly.

“The original Chick-fil-A sandwich is still the most popular item,” Lynch tells. “Our Chick n Minis—nuggets served on a honey butter yeast roll at breakfast—and our frozen drinks such as milkshakes or frosted lemonade are big sellers, too.”

The fast-food conglomerate updates their menu with limited-edition and specialty items always. Currently, folks will see frosted strawberry lemonade, watermelon iced tea and even a BBQ grilled chicken sandwich on the menu. While the food always is consistent, the folks who serve

WINGS: HELL’S KITCHEN Tame.

Hot. Fire.

Inferno.

Buffalo garlic.

Teriyaki BBQ. Honey chipotle.

Blue Buffalo.

Tangy NC BBQ. Mango habanero.

Breaded to order.

Never frozen.

Yep! That’s how Hell’s Kitchen fries up their wings for the public tod indulge upon, whether it’s ahead of one of the big games they show on their bigs screen or during half-price wing nights on Thursday from 7 p.m. to close and Sunday from 9 p.m. to close.

51% votes customers take as much recognition for keeping everyone happy.

“Our commitment selecting the best people is what sets us aside,” Lynch tells.

“Flexible scheduling, college scholarships, [the fact we’re] closed on Sunday, and the opportunity to advance are big attractors.

Three of the five local franchisees started out as employees in high school. All of my 13 managers started as team members and have advanced within my organization.”

Lynch has been with the company since 1991. During that time, the majority of locations, 300, were in malls. Today, the standalone restaurants are a national brand.

“Our menu offers some of the healthiest options in our industry,” Lynch boasts.

Grilled nuggets and sandwiches, as well as salads of various flavors—Spicy Southwest, Coob, Grilled Market—make it easy to dine without unwanted calories and fat.

Plus, they do side items that up the ante on nutrition, such as Greek yogurt parfait, fruit cup or Superfood Side, consisting of broccolini, kale and maple-vinaigrette dressing.

Other fast-food joints who zip onto our poll are Cook-Out (30%) and Bojangles (19%)

59% votes when it comes to wings,” general manager Drew Flynn says. “They’re lightly breaded and always fried in fresh oil, with about a dozen homemade sauces to choose from.

We also offer our most recent award-winning savory dry rub.”

And though they tipped the winning slot for Best Wings, Hell’s Kitchen offers a full menu for folks who wish to order something different—like one of their massive, freshly ground burgers. “We do our burgers on special Every Wednesday for $6.66!” Flynn says.

They also have $1 tacos on Tuesday nights, featuring beef, chicken or bean, and menu stuffed to the gills with other options like nachos, quesadillas, fried pickles, chili and cheese potato skins, tenders, salads, pork belly sandwich, clubs, reuben, and more.

“We are coming out with a new menu in a few weeks and there is a section with specialty burgers that is guaranteed to keep customers coming back,” Flynn promises.

Other wings flying onto the poll come from “What makes our wings the best in my Buffalo Wild Wings (32%) and Wild Wing opinion is that they are as fresh as it gets Cafe (29%).

Read all winners’ writeups at www.encorepub.com

2 locations to serve you 7220 Wrightsville Avenue 5906 Oleander Drive 910-256-1222 910-769-4232 Serving Breakfast and Lunch 6:30 AM to 2:00 PM every day.

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Daily Cruises & Private Charters

Black Water Adventure

Friday 3/31 & Saturday 4/1 - 10am:

Picnic Lunch to the Bluffs

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2 hours - $27 per person

Osprey are Back !

2 hour Blackwater Adventure cruises up the NE Cape Fear River.

You will get to see the transformation of the river from saltwater to freshwater as well as numerous osprey on their nests.

This is our signature cruise we typically offer only on Friday & Saturday mornings. Captain Doug will weave his stories of history & ecology as you head up to the Bluffs on the Northeast Cape Fear...

Don’t forget your camera! There are photo op’s everywhere you look.

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Thursday April 6th - 9am: $35 per person If you are a birder, a history buff or just love being on the river, we have the cruise for you. Assorted sandwiches & salads catered by Bon Appetit.

Azalea Festival Firecracker Cruise

Saturday April 8th - 7:30pm: $55 per person (limited seating) Catered Hor d’oeuvres - a great venue for watching the sky light up with the fireworks spectacular.

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Full Moon Cruise

April 11th - 7pm: $27 per person Join us for a 90min cruise on the Cape Fear River under the moonlight. You will get the best of the best, the sun kissing the day goodbye and the mysterious moon rising. And to make the evening even better.Jamie Michele will be on board serenading the moon.

Located on the riverfront in historic downtown Wilmington, between Orange & Ann Streets For a complete list of scheduled Tours, Excursions, and Fees, visit

wilmingtonwatertours.net HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

42 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

Visit us on the Riverwalk!

212 S. Water Street

910-338-3134

info@wilmingtonwt.com

Follow BAR ON BOARD WITH us ALL ABC PERMITS

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR VOTING US BEST WAIT STAFF & BEST SPORTS BAR!

• Serving Up The Best Pub Grub In Town • 20 Draft Selections Focused On Craft Local & NC Breweries • Seasonally Inspired Specialty Cocktail Creations • Come See Us On Tuesdays For Our Give Back To Charity Special!

109 Chestnut Street Downtown Wilmington (910) 762-1373 www.copperpennync.com

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OYSTERS: DOCK STREET OYSTER BAR It’s March! Spring weather is warming up and it’s still oyster season. Whether preferring to eat them raw, steamed or baked on a half-shell, this coastal delight will pop with every bite. For almost 20, years encore readers have chosen downtown ILM’s Dock Street Oyster Bar as the place to go for Best Oysters.

Folks have the option to enjoy Dock Street’s award-winning oysters a few different ways. Oyster Rockefeller with bacon, spinach and creamy hollandaise, start the menu and are a great way to introduce newbies. Raw, shucked oysters are offered by the half- or full dozen at market price, or served steamed. The Dock Street Steamer Platter has a bit of everything Dock Street is known for: oysters, snow crab, shrimp, mussels and clams—corn and potatoes included!

Since opening in 1999, co-owner Louise Forbes and company have worked diligently to make every diner’s experience perfect.

The entry of review websites (Yelp, TripAdvisor, etc.) seem to bring even more people to their door year after year. However, one of their biggest challenges is steering peo-

43% votes

ple away from fried seafood—as reflected on their menu at dockstreetoysterbar.net. “We were ‘clean cooking’ before it was popular,” Forbes says. “Meaning ocean-to-plate, no fillers and no frying. Whole, clean food.”

Without a walk-in cooler, Dock Street gets daily deliveries to ensure freshness. They source their seafood from across the region—staying as close to home as seasons and availability allow. Outside factors can halt harvesting all the time, such as storms and harmful runoff, which makes securing them for Dock Street’s menu more difficult. “Oysters are seasonally bulk harvested so when we can’t get enough,” Forbes says. “We source from the next closest vendor. . . . Fingers crossed for no storms this year!”

Aside from oysters, Forbes says 2017 will continue to bring more fresh, innovative seafood dishes from Dock Street—paired with friendly service and handcrafted cocktails.

“Come check us out,” she adds. “We are so much more than just oysters!”

Also shucking onto encore’s list for Best Oysters are Shuckin’ Shack (39%) and Boathouse Restaurant (18%).

36% votes

BRUNCH: BOCA BAY

center spread). They have starters like tuna tartare and ceviche, to crab dip and oysters Rockefeller, and do seafood right (see cover for scallops dish), including a slew of sushi and raw bar items. Their prix-fixe menu is offered Sunday through Thursday evening for only $26.95, Wilmingtonians pack in for the all-you-caneat fare from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each week for which includes a starter, entree and chef’s desmore than traditional eggs and bacon—though, sert choice.

They cater parties with a hefty banquet menu, diners can get those as well. Bagels, cream cheese and lox, eggs Benedict, Belgian waffles, starting at $23.95 a person for their buffet option hashbrowns, blintzes, and so much more are or folks can add$10.95 per person for dinner opaplenty at the Eastwood Road eatery. Diners tion. Their Hors d’oeuvres course can start as can concoct their own omelet at various sta- family style or buffet of Fried Calamari, Spring tions, complete with eggs, sausage, cheddar, Rolls, Mini Crabcakes or Chicken Satays and more. Entree selections include multiple chickSwiss, and veggies. en, seafood, steak, and vegetarian options, Boca Bay is a place to take parents or loved which are all prepared to with the same quality ones for a special occasion, too, as tables are ingredients. donned in white with fine china. Inside or outAnd their nightly bar menu from 5 p.m. to 7 side seating is offered. As well, reservations are a smart idea for Mother’s Day and Easte. And p.m. features a dozen mussels for $6, oyster unless NC decides to repeal its statute on no al- shooters for $4 and $2 oyster Rockefeller, made cohol before noon on Sunday, folks will need to with Gruyere, spinach, bacon and cream. Sushi stroll in at noon or after for tasty Bloody Marys Tuesdays feature innovative and traditional rolls for less than $10 all evening long. and Mimosa cocktails.

Boca Bay has dominated the Best Brunch category since it was added to our readers’ poll in 2015. And for 2017, they officially take the title again, thanks to their massive buffet brunch offered on Sundays.

Other brunches popping onto our readers’ Boca Bay’s dinner, bar and prix fixe menus delight any day of the week as well—and es- poll are from The Basics (34%) and Bon Appepecially during Wilmington Restaurant Week, tite (30%). which starts Wednesday (see their menu in the

Nonprofits interested in applying for the Best Of partnership for 2018 should contact shea@encorepub.com for more information. encore will choose the nonprofit with whom it works by mid-June.

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DANCE CLUB: IBIZA Here’s the thing: Party-goers looking for the best place in town to shake their tail feathers need not search any further than downtown’s Ibiza Nightclub. First off, the backside of the three-story building looks like it could be situated on New Orleans Magazine Street. It’s got antebellum gothic flair with gorgeous drapes framing its balconies, and areas set up to lounge outside. However, inside is where the party is throwing down—usually on a packed dance floor welcoming all folks from all walks of life to join in on the grooves.

Only open every Friday and Saturday night, Ibiza has three DJs rotating its lineup from 10 p.m. to 2:45 a.m. DJ Elementary, DJ Bobby Z and DJ UK each bring a unique flair for the best dance mixes. But before they get the party underway, Ibiza hosts “Do Drag Me to Ibiza,” where the bets drag shows in the Port City take place until midnight.

“On Saturdays you can usually count on a special party or Go-Go dancers on the boxes to ensure everyone has a good time,” owner Charles Carver says. However, they also host special parties and events that tip the scale on edgy and fun.

In fact, coming up on April 1, they will host The Black Party/Fetish Ball. “Curiosity seekers and die-hard fetish fans will mingle for a one-of-a-kind experience,” Carver promises. They also will be bringing some of the biggest names in drag to Ibiza, including Miss William on April 7.

And on April 13, they will put on a Miss Ibiza 2017 Competition. Registration begins at 7 p.m. for $50. There are multiple categories to be judged, including gown, onstage

42% votes

arts, media, entertainment question and talent. The winner receives $150, plus bookings throughout the year and a tiara. First runnerup receives $100 and bookings throughout the year.The event will feature Amaya Hermosa, Ebony Addams, Tara Nicole Brooks, Lauren Scott, and Miss Ibiza 2016 Z’nia Addams (Tiffany Johnson).

There always is a free cover before 10 p.m., except for during special ticketed events. Likewise, drink specials abound to keep the liquid courage flowing so those dance-floor moves are flowing, too.

Other dance clubs keeping readers moving are Goodfellas Nite Club (33%) and Pravda (25%).

VOTED BEST MEN’S CLOTHING IN THE PORT CITY

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216 Princess Street | Downtown, Wilmington NC | www.BlokeApparel.com | (910) 679-4137 44 encore |march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

NEWSCAST: WECT

68% votes a story or a sound bite,” he says. “People are passionate these days and it’s good to hear the feedback. As long as the criticism is constructive, we are able to work through any potential issues. It’s important we just keep talking.”

Accepting critical feedback helps WECT evolved the needs with their viewers. Though Saxton can’t speak for the more than half-century of the station’s coverage, he can attest to how much has changed in just his seven years. With more ways to consume news fast, it’s created a daily challenge to meet demand. “There is intense pressure daily to share information as quickly as possible,” he explains, “but we have to run it through our processes to make sure it’s sourced and accurate before moving forward.”

Out of thousands of local stories WECT has covered in its time, last year’s coverage of Hurricane Matthew really helped bond their team. It was a “perfect storm,” Saxton describes, in terms of when it hit our region and how they were able to strategically and safely prepare for coverage that would last throughout a weekend. “Several people stepped up,” he continues. “Our general manager made sure that we had all the resources we needed to cover the story all day on air and on digital. . . . We were the only ones on the air for hours at a time and we heard several nice comments from people in the community who appreciated that we were here for them during the storm.”

WECT plans to keep building trust among its viewers in 2017 by finding more ways to get feedback and dabbling in new ways to provide content. “We’re considering opening up an advisory board with volunteers from the community who want to help us improve our news product,” Saxton divulges. “The idea is to involve current viewers, and even those who don’t HEADLINING THE WINS: Jon Evans and Frances Weller are all smiles for taking home Best Newscast often choose WECT as their news source, in an ongoing discussion about what stories, for their network, WECT, again in 2017. Weller also scored Best Newscaster. Photo by Chris Brehmer topics or issues that may be getting overlooked. It’s another way of sourcing feedback and Photography ensuring equitable storytelling.”

In the age of “fake news” and hostile rhetoric about and toward media this days, news organizations have found themselves on the defensive when it comes to reporting on the facts.

Even WECT, who wins Best Newscast year after year on our readers’ poll is not immune to scrutiny—garnered or not. Social media helps create a platform for discerning viewers and skeptics alike. WECT’s news director, Scott Saxton, says they simply respond by drilling the truth when a story is questioned. “It often comes to light that there might be a disagreement on

KARAOKE: KATY’S AT JERRY ALLEN’S “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show. “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey.

They’re just a few songs Kelly Baucom often hears echoing across the bar at Katy’s Grill & Bar and Jerry Allen’s on Friday nights. “There are too many great performers to only choose one [that stands out,]” he explains.

Baucom, business partner to owner Jerry Allen, is accepting this year’s award for Best Place for Karaoke on behalf of the South College Road bar and grill. While Katy’s will continue to grow their playlist throughout 2017 and beyond, they’re also planning to continue their “longstanding tradition of being a place that makes everyone feel like a local.”

Aside from being ILM’s favorite place to belt out Top 40s, classic-rock hits and country ballads, they have a mean menu of $3 cheeseburgers everyday and 59-cents wings on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Comfort food and fried munchies abound, too. Anything from fried pickles and mini crab nuggets, to hand-battered onion rings and Scotch Bonnet Lane nachos are just starters on the menu. Dozens of dishes keep performers sated from “Jerry’s Kickin’ Chicken” list or off their seafood and other “special stuff” menus.

“In addition to Friday night karaoke starting at 10 p.m.,” Baucom continues,

Viewers may tune into morning, midday or evening newscasts on TV, or read and watch the latest stories posted to www.wect.com daily. Other news, weather updates and community stories may be followed on Facebook, Twitter and other social media apps. WECT viewers are also encouraged to report leads at newsroom@wect.com for news-related stories and went@wect.com for non-news related material.

Folks are tuning into WWAY (22%) and WHQR (10%) for Best Local Newscast as well.

56% votes

“there are specials [on] Miller Lite and Bud Light pints ($2.50), Jim Beam Fire ($4), KB’s KY Signature Drink ($4) and Jager/ PBR combo ($6).”

Shy guests who don’t want to sing along at karaoke can find lots more to do at Katy’s.

Pool, ping pong and cornhole are just a few games patrons can enjoy. Tuesdays welcome musicians for open mic and a halfprice menu from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. College night on Wednesdays lets the DJ take over the tunes. Game-day fanatics can also watch the latest March Madness nail-biters on their many TVs, too. “And [it’s] a great comfortable atmosphere,” Baucom adds.

“We have great staff, great food and great customers!”

Folks can check in with with daily specials, karaoke and other happenings at Katy’s on their Facebook page. Folks should note the restaurant and lounge hours are a little different. The restaurant opens at 7 a.m. from Monday-Sunday—serving breakfast until 11 a.m.—and close at 9 p.m. on Thursday and Sunday, and 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The lounge is open Monday-Saturday at 11 a.m. - 2 a.m., and Sunday 12 p.m.

– 2 a.m. Folks can see all of their menus, specials and event calendar online at www. katysbarandgrill.com.

Also singing their way to the top of encore’s poll are Silver Dollar (24%) and Willoughby’s (19%).

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ART GALLERY: PORT CITY POTTERY AND FINE CRAFTS

40% votes

A decade ago this week—on April 1, to be precise—Port City Pottery and Fine Crafts made its soft launch to the greater Wilmington community. Focused on showcasing work of three-dimensional crafts from local artists, the gallery was the first of its kind locally. It attached artists who didn’t have a gallery or brick-and-mortar establishment to sell their art.

“We developed a business plan to operate as a co-op and invite exclusively local artists to participate,” Louise Giordano says. “As a co-op, all members pay rent and work three or four days a month and

more. Artists who are showcased come selected by a jury. “Some artists come to us, asking to be considered,” Giordano says.

“Others’ work we have seen and then invite them to consider joining us.”

The gallery features two artists each month and launches artist receptions on Fourth Friday gallery night downtown. Currently, needle felter Donna Loftin and Graham Pelletier, who works with alcohol inks, are on display. Come the end of April, they will showcase all of their artists as part of their 10-year anniversary celebration. They will have the event catered on April 28 with

FOR THE ART OF IT: Dianne Masi shows off the firts Best Art Gallery award that Port City Pottery and Fine Crafts received on the 2017 poll. Courtesy photo

do all the behind-the-scenes work to keep the gallery functioning. With this business model, unlike traditional galleries that take up to 50 percent commission, our artists receive 80 percent to 90 percent of sales.”

The gallery represents 19 artists working in a variety of mediums, from pottery to pine-needle basketry, jewelry to wood, fiber to glass, mixed media to gourds, and

.com

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door prizes given away throughout the evening. “We will culminate our Anniversary Year with a closing party on the Fourth Friday in March 2018.”

In May they’ll showcase the work of metalsmith and jeweler Sara Westermark and Dianne Masi, pine-needle basket and gourd artist. They often even utilize themes to help inspire artists throughout the year, whether it’s celebrating the holidays in December or doing something like “By the Sea” in the summer.

“We invite ideas from all of our artists, and if a suggestion seems pleasing or interesting, we are likely to try it,” Giordono tells.

Other galleries hanging votes on our poll are Art in Bloom (35%) and Eclipse Artisan Boutique (25%).

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SEAFOOD Cape Fear Seafood Co. ITALIAN FOOD A Taste of Italy LATIN/MEXICAN K38 Baja Grill THAI, RESTAURANT OVERALL, OUTDOOR DINING, ATMOSPHERE Indochine JAPANESE RESTAURANT, SUSHI YoSake Downtown Sushi Lounge CHINESE RESTAURANT Szechuan 132 INDIAN FOOD Tandoori Bites FRENCH FOOD Caprice Bistro FAST FOOD Chick-­fil-­a PIZZA, LATE-NIGHT EATERY A Slice of Life VEGETARIAN FOOD Epic Food Co. SOUL FOOD, BUFFET, FRIED CHICKEN, Casey’s Buffet BARBECUE Jackson’s Big Oak SUB/SANDWICH SHOP, DELI, LUNCH, SOUPS Chop’s Deli FRIES, BURGER PT’s Olde Fashioned Grille HOT DOG Trolly Stop BURRITO Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn

OYSTERS Dock Street Oyster Bar STEAK Port City Chop House APPETIZERS, BREWERY Front Street Brewery SALADS Rucker John’s DESSERTS, BAKERY Apple Annie’s Bake Shop WAITSTAFF, SPORTS BAR Copper Penny BREAKFAST, DINER Dixie Grill NEW RESTAURANT Cast Iron Kitchen CHAIN RESTAURANT Bonefish Grill FINE DINING RESTAURANT Rx Restaurant COFFEE SHOP Bitty & Beau’s CHEF James Doss (Rx/Pembroke’s) WINGS Hell’s Kitchen ICE CREAM/FROZEN DESSERT Boombalatti’s Ice Cream MEDITERRANEAN FOOD Baba Ghannouj GOURMET STORE, CATERING SERVICE Pine Valley Market HEALTH FOOD STORE Tidal Creek Co-Op BAR Satellite Bar and Lounge BARTENDER Ian Murray (manna) FOOD TRUCK Catch the Food Truck WINE LIST The Fortunate Glass TACOS Islands Fresh Mex Grill BRUNCH Boca Bay RIBS Mission BBQ BEER LIST Cape Fear Wine and Beer PLACE TO BOARD A PET

Paw Beach Pet Resort CHIROPRACTOR Back in Motion ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE McKay Healing Arts DENTIST Bozart Family Dentistry VETERINARIAN College Road Animal Hospital PLACE TO BUY A NEW CAR Stevenson Honda PLACE TO BUY A USED CAR Auto Wholesale AUTO MECHANIC Mobiletech LOCAL BOOK STORE Old Books on Front Street FLORIST Julia’s Florist HAIR SALON, TANNING SALON Tanglez Salon & Spa TATTOO PARLOR Artfuel Inc. PLACE TO BUY MUSIC Gravity Records JEWELER Perry’s Emporium SURF SHOP Sweetwater Surf Shop WOMEN’S CLOTHING Island Passage MEN’S CLOTHING Bloke Apparel KID’S CLOTHING Once Upon a Child SHOE STORE Journeys REAL ESTATE AGENCY I​ntracoastal Realty LOCAL GARDEN STORE The Transplanted Garden CONSIGNMENT/RESALE­ CLOTHES The Fairy Circle ONSIGNMENT/RESALE­ —DECOR, ANTIQUE SHOP The Ivy Cottage MORTGAGE COMPANY Alpha Mortgage FARMER’S MARKET Riverfront Farmers’ Market CAR WASH Cruisers Car Wash

GIFT SHOP Blue Moon Gift Shops PRINT SHOP Dock Street Printing HOTEL Hilton Wilmington Riverside ADULT STORE Adam and Eve MOVING COMPANY Two Men and a Truck NAIL SALON, SPA Head to Toe Day Spa DOG GROOMER Von Barkee’s Spa and Bakery PERSONAL TRAINER LaMaine Williams (The Fitness Squad)

GYM O2 Fitness WEDDING VENUE Airlie Gardens PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE The Little Dipper DOCTOR Dr. Chris Cosgrove (Intracoastal Internal Medicine)

SHOPPING PLAZA Mayfaire Town Center MASSAGE THERAPIST Mary Beth Redman BOWLING ALLEY Ten Pin Alley ARCADE/GAME ROOM Jungle Rapids POOL HALL Blue Post Billiards TOUR ATTRACTION NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher TOUR OF WILMINGTON Wilmington Water Tours LIVE MUSIC VENUE Greenfield Lake Amphitheater LOCAL BAND/PERFORMER L Shape Lot ­ LOCAL DJ DJ Battle DANCE CLUB Ibiza PLACE FOR KARAOKE Jerry Allen’s at Katy’s MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS Finkelstein Music

ART GALLERY Port City Pottery and Fine Crafts LOCAL ARTIST Mary Ellen Golden MUSEUM Cape Fear Museum THEATRE PRODUCTION OF 2016 Rock of Ages THEATRE PRODUCTION COMPANY Thalian Association THEATRE VENUE Thalian Hall LOCAL THESPIAN Tony Rivenbark COMEDY TROUPE Nutt House Improv LOCAL NEWSCAST WECT NEWSCASTER Frances Weller LOCAL RADIO STATION The Penguin 98.3 LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY Foz (Z107.5) MORNING RADIO SHOW Foz in the Morning (Z107.5) LOCAL FILMMAKER Jonathan Landau LOCAL INDEPENDENT FILM Finding Home LOCAL WEBSITE www.portcitydaily.com LOCAL WRITER Clyde Edgerton DONUTS Britt’s Donuts WRITE IN CATEGORY Bagels: Beach Bagels NONPROFIT Adopt an Angel LOCAL HUMANITARIAN Alexandra Leviner ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP Cape Fear River Watch BOTTLE SHOP Palate LAW FIRM Shipman and Wright ESTHETICIAN Marcella Hardy (Tanglez Salon and Spa)

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HAPPENINGS & EVENTS ACROSS WILMINGTON

TO-DO CALENDAR

events

CIVIL WAR TRUST PARK DAY

Apr. 1, 8:30am: Volunteers of all ages wanted for Park Day 2017 at Fort Fisher State Historic Site.

Help us preserve and beautify Fort Fisher and receive a free t-shirt and a free lunch from the Friends of Fort Fisher. Tools and gloves provided. Fort Fisher State Historic Site, 1610 Fort Fisher Blvd.

HERB AND GARDEN FAIR

Poplar Grove’s 25th Annual Herb and Garden Fair is a 2-day event featuring the best herb and plant vendors as well as local artisans and crafters! There will also be lots of food, concessions and activities for the kids! The show runs Saturday, April 1st from 9-5 and Sunday, April 2nd from 10-4.

Admission is $5.00 and includes a raffle ticket for goodies donated by our talented vendors, all proceeds benefit the conservation and preservation of Historical Poplar Grove Plantation. For more info. please visit our website www.poplargrove.org. For vendor or other information please contact Suzette Cooper-Hawley at suzette@poplargrove.org. Kids 12 and under free. Poplar Grove Plantation, 10200 US Hwy 17 N.

ANTIQUES AND TRADE MARKET

First Sat. of Apr., June, July, Aug., Sept. and Oct., 10am-4pm. Outdoor: $15, every 10x10. Indoor: $20. every 10x10. Make RSVP today. Food vendors welcome. American Legion Post 167, 16660 Hwy US 17, Hampstead. Download: www.ncalpost167.org.

pool, and Lake House. Register at the event for your Apr. 1, 11am: Flytrap Family Fun Day at Carolina chance to win a Street Legal Golf Cart! RSVP for Beach State Park features a celebration of what VIP access and enjoy lunch at Ember Park, compliRoyal Governor Arthur Dobbs in 1759 described ments of RiverLights. 4410 River Rd. as a “catch fly sensitive found at Latitude 34” -- AZALEA FEST QUEEN’S CORONATION the famous Venus Flytrap. Event includes crafts, The festival gets underway on Wed., Apr. 5, 3pm, carnivorous plant hikes, an interpreter in period with the coronation of the 2017 Azalea Queen as costume, and a trail run. Meet at the Visitor Center. she arrives on the riverfront, downtown ILM. In atHOURS: 11am to 3pm. Carolina Beach State Park, tendance are the festival celebrity guests and city 1010 State Park Rd. 910-458-8206. officials, festival board members, and Cape Fear RIVER LIGHTS CELEBRATION Garden Club Azalea Belles. After the Coronation Apr. 1, 11am: Soak up warmer weather and magnifiwe have an exclusive free meet-and-greet with all cent views with live music by The Midatlantic Band of our celebrities and the queen. in Live Oak Commons, miniature boat races by The Model Yacht Club at Boat Builder Park, enjoy shuttle tours of the community, view 17 furnished model homes and check out the newly completed parks, FLYTRAP FAMILY FUN DAY

charity/fundraisers WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

The YWCA Lower Cape Fear is accepting nominations for the 32nd annual Women of Achievement Awards—a fundraiser to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of women and young leaders in our community. The event also raises key support for the YWCA’s programs and services which promote racial justice and gender equity for thousands of women, children and their families in southeastern NC. Awards held on Thurs., May 4, Wilmington Convention Center. Awards provide recognition for outstanding contributions and achievements of women active in Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover and Pender counties.

Women nominated in: Arts, Business, Education, Environmental, Health and Wellness, Public Service, Social Justice, Rachel Freeman Unsung Hero, Volunteer and Young Leader. Three young leader award recipients will receive a $1,000 scholarship to continue their education after high school. www.ywca-lowercapefear.org.

BLUE RIBBON RUN

Apr. 1, 4pm: Initially started to remember Julie Brown and Christina Gianoplus by spreading awareness about colorectal cancer, but has become a part of Susie’s Cause, The National Colon Cancer Foundation. All proceeds from the run/ walk and the reception that is provided at Dockside (free of charge for participants and supporters) benefit the fight against colorectal cancer.

The event now sponsors a luncheon as well as a kick-off party for the run. You can sign up at www.its-go-time.com. Participate in memory or in honor of someone who is fighting colorectal cancer. Help raise awareness. Colon cancer is the second most lethal cancer among men and women combined. However, it is the most detectable and preventable. Walkers, online $20; day of, $25. Runners (5K), online $35; day of $39. Autumn Hall Subdivision and Dockside Restaurant/Marina.

TINTED TURTLE TROT 5K/1-MI. FUN RUN

Island Montessori’s 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run will be held April 2 on Carolina Beach at Mike Chappell Park, beginning at 10 a.m. These timed, familyfriendly races are Color-FUN and benefit Island Montessori School - the only free, public Montessori education offered in New Hanover County. A post-race party will be held at Lazy Pirate on Carolina Beach. More info/register at http://tintedturtle-

48 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

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trot.com/. Follow on FB, www.facebook.com/IMSTurtleTrot. Mike Chappell Park, 501 Dow Rd. S.

music/concerts PRO MUSICA CONCERT SERIES

In its sixth season--celebrating the works of living composers--Pro Musica will present a concert entitled “Out of Darkness into Light”, a new work by composer William Neil. Premiering this arrangement of the work is the Pro Musica Ensemble: Nancy King (soprano), Danijela Žeželj-Gualdi (violin), Helena Spencer (contrabassoon), Laurent Estoppey (saxophones) and Robert Nathanson (guitar). “Out of Darkness into Light” is really a mystery play interpreting, through composed and improvisational music, the beautiful prayerlike text that Malgosia Sawczuk created after her remarkable restoration work in the St. Stanislaus Kostka Church in Chicago. The music of William Neil has been performed on both sides of the Atlantic and has been featured at the Festival of Music in Evian, France, the Electronic Plus Festival in New York, the Pontino Festival in Italy, and the New Music Chicago Festival. Purchase seats on CAM’s website: www.cameronartmuseum.org, by phone and at CAM’s Visitor Services desk. Cosponsored by the UNCW Dept. of Music. CAM members and students with valid college ID: $12.

Cameron Art Museum, 3201 South 17th St.

UKULELES UNITE

Sat., Apr. 1, 7pm: Come share a night of Ukuleles! Featuring local groups: The Unresolved Sting Band, Port City Pickers, and The Other Mother’s Brothers. Bring your ukulele for a sing-a-long finale! Winter Park Presbyterian Church, 4501 Wrightsville Ave.

ORGAN RECITAL W/RONNIE D WISE

Prior to his time as music director of St. Paul’s, Mr. Wise served as director of worship and the arts and principal organist at Boone United Methodist Church in Boone, NC. He studied at Appalachian State Univeristy in Boone, NC, Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ, and the Juilliard School in NYC. His concert will be Apr. 2, 2pm. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 16 N. Sixteenth St.

film THE EMPOWERMENT PROJECT

Mar. 30, 9:30am: A documentary film featuring eight women who have achieved their dreams (some by breaking the glass ceiling). The film crew is all-female also. The goal of the film is to ask people, “What would you do if you knew you would succeed?” Free screening! www.empowermentproject.com. CFCC, Union Station Auditorium (U-170), 411 N. Front St.

VISIONS 007 FILM FEST

Mar. 31, 8am: 7th Annual Visions Film Festival & Conference at Lumina Theater in Wilmington, NC is organized by undergraduate UNCW students and celebrates young filmmakers and scholars from around the world. The event features a breakfast reception, film screenings, a keynote address by filmmaker Felix Thompson, a panel discussion, and more. www.visionsffc.org. (910) 962-7502. visions7programming@gmail.com. UNCW, Lumina Theater, 601 S. College Rd.

theatre/auditions

HEATHERS

Panache Theatrical Productions presents “Heathers: The Musical.” Based on the 1988 cult hit movie of the same name, Heathers: The Musical is a fun, irreverent take on high school life and the struggles of balancing popularity with sanity. This sometimes hysterically raunchy musical is intended for mature audiences and runs through Apr. 2 at Ruth and Bucky Stein Theatre in Historic Thalian Hall. Shows are 8pm, Thurs.-Sat.; 3pm on Sun. Tickets; www. thalianhall.org or by calling the box office at 910632-2285. Mature audiences recommended. Ruth and Bucky Stein Studio Theatre, Thalian Hall, 301 Chestnut St.

KILLER DILLER

Orginal story by Clyde Edgerton, adapted for stage

by Paul Ferguson directed by Zach Hanner, with musical direction by Jared Cline. March 31-April 29, Fri.-Sat., 7pm. Doors open 1 hour prior. ​Tickets $18-$42. Show-only ticket (no dinner): $18-$24.

“Killer Diller” is the story of Wesley, a young man finishing up his time in a halfway house, who falls for a young woman, Phoebe, who is working her way through a weight loss program adjacent to his work release program. Meanwhile, Wesley and his college-sponsored gospel group try to figure out how they can make it as a blues band. TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th St.

GYPSY

Thurs., Mar. 30-Sun., Apr. 9, 7:30pm and Sun., 3pm. $15/$25/$30. Featuring one show-stopping song after another such as “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” “You Gotta Have a Gimmick” and “Let Me Entertain You,” GYPSY truly is “the greatest of all American musicals” (The New York Times).

Based on the real-life memoirs of burlesque megastar, Gypsy Rose Lee, Gypsy tells the story of the

mother behind the curtain, Mama Rose. Blinded by her own ambition, Rose pushes her two daughters to pave the way to stardom on vaudeville’s legendary circuit. Don’t miss this “mother” of a big musical! Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St. THE LAST ENCAMPMENT

It’s late April, 1865. Lee has surrendered to Grant, but the Army of Tennessee is still in the field and under arms in Piedmont NC. As Generals Johnston and Sherman negotiate either surrender or another battle, five members of a bloodied Alabama regiment sit by their campfire and ponder their fate. Will they have to fight again, against overwhelming odds? If the battle comes, will they survive? If they do escape death, what will their world be like? More importantly, why did they fight in the first place? Was it worth it? And how do they deal with their commanding officer, who is going mad before their very eyes? A heart-stopping drama, inspired by real events. David Anthony Wright, author of The Hermit of Fort Fisher, has created a taught and powerful play that examines the balance between duty, loyalty and morality.

Through Apr. 9, Thurs-Sat., 8 p.m., or Sun., 3 p.m. $22 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and $15 all Thursday performances. Cape Fear Playhouse, 613 Castle St.

THE CHILDREN’S HOUR

Mar. 31, 8pm: A young girl at an all-girl’s boarding schoolmakes an accusation that plays on the fears of society. Written in 1934,The Children’s Hour, by Lillian Hellman, tells a familiar tale of the intolerance and fear of difference that leads an otherwise loving co munity to judge, shame, and isolate those deemed guilty of unnatural and immoral sexual behavior. The play shows how one small lie, containing a grain of truth, has the power

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to infiltrate the collective consciousness of a community, leading to human tragedy. Given the rapid spread of half-truths or outright falsities through contemporary media and the Internet, The Children’s Hour continues to raise relevant questions about the systemic impact of individual and collective responses to difference. Runs at 8 p.m. Thurs.Sat. with Sun. matinees at 2 p.m. Mar. 30-Apr. 2 & Apr. 6-9 on the Mainstage Theatre in the UNCW Cultural Arts Building. Tickets are $15 for members of the general public, $12 for seniors, UNCW employees, and alum, and $6 for students (sales tax included.) Kenan Box Office: 910-962-3500 or online at http://uncw.edu/arts/boxoffice.html. UNCW Cultural Arts Building, 5270 Randall Dr. CULTURAL REFLECTIONS

Apr. 4 and 18: UNCW and Old Books on Front St. presents UNCW Storytelling’s Reflections of Culture, the second edition of “Just Us: A Performance Troupe for Social Justice.” The autobiographical, original production features 16-student cast’s personal experiences with social injustice, and asks the audience to reflect on how to pursue a just, more inclusive society. Topics include racial profiling, disability, stigma, interpersonal violence, sexism, and rape culture. Reflections of Culture will open campus on Apr. 4, 7pm; Leutze 125 on the UNCW campus. Second show moves downtown to Old Books, 249 N. Front St., on Apr. 18. Both shows at 7pm. Free and open to the public.

dance CONTRA DANCE

Evening of contemporary American country dancing—done to live music by Box of Chocolates band—fiddle, percussion, guitar, dulcimer, bass, mandolin and more! Dress cool and comfortable, soft-soled shoes. 2nd/4th Tues. ea. mo. All ages welcome. United Methodist Church, 409 S. 5 Ave.

BELLYDANCE SHOWCASE

Mar. 25: NC’s Ahmose and guests hosts a belly dance show case each month with a diverse mixture of belly dance styles and skill levels.

SAT NIGHT CONTRA DANCE

Apr. 1, 7:30pm: People of all ages welcome for an evening of energetic contra dance. Live music by Cabin Fever from Columbia, SC, a New Englandstyle contradance band, with keyboard, twin fiddles and hammered dulcimer bringing lively reels and jigs and beautiful waltzes. Newcomers’ brief lesson at 7:30 pm, dance 8-11pm. Caller Clinton Ross from Gastonia. Dress cool and comfy, with soft-soled shoes. Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd 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. Signup, 8pm, and runs all night. Juggling Gypsy 1612 Castle St. ILM, (910) 763-2223 daily after 3pm for details. www. jugglinggypsy.com.

COMEDY BINGO

Brent Blakeney headlines comedy bingo at Dead Crow, Tuesday nights, 8pm. Free show featuring the best comics from all over the Southeast, all while playing bingo along with the words they say! Win prizes and enjoy discount tacos! Hosted

by Louis Bishop with in-booth side kick comedian Lew Morgante. Dead Crow Comedy Club, 265 N. Front St.

54 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

CAROLINA COMEDY CUP

Comedian Jenn Snyder Headlines “Carolina Comedy Cup.” Jenn Snyder tours with Neil Hamburger and Tim Heidecker. What’s there to do at the beach in the winter? Laugh every week at the Lazy Pirate on Carolina Beach is “Carolina Comedy Cup. The “Carolina Comedy Cup” presented

by Wake N’Bake Donuts!! See the best area comics compete against each other for your votes, followed by a nationally touring headliner comedian.

Enjoy the show, drink specials and more for just $5.

That’s “Carolina Comedy Cup every Wed. 9pm, through Mar. 25th. 701 N Lake Pk Blvd. www.LazyPirateRestaurant.com.

DEAD CROW COMEDY CLUB

Comedy Open Mic every Thurs, 7pm. • Mar. 31Apr. 1, 7pm/9:30pm: Janelle James is a New York based comedian that can be seen on NBC Seeso’s Night Train with Wyatt Cenac, @midnight on Comedy Central and Uproarious on Fuse (2016).

She was included in the Just For Laughs Montreal’s New Faces category for 2016, named one of the The 50 Most Funny People in Brooklyn 2016 and has been featured for her outstanding performance ability in the The New York Times, Portland Tribune and Time Out Magazine. She recently has been on tour with Chris Rock. www.deadcrowcomedy.com. Dead Crow Comedy Rm, 265 N. Front St.

art 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

MEET LOCAL ARTISTS

Meet working local 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 6-9 pm on the 4th Friday ea. month! theArtWorks, 200 Willard St.

ORANGE ST. ARTSFEST ARTISTS NEEDED

Thalian Association Community Theatre is seeking artists for the 22nd Orange Street ArtsFest, Memorial Day weekend, May 27, 10am-6pm, and Sun., May 28, 10am-5pm. Celebrated street fair will return to Orange St. next to the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, with some artists inside the building. The popular juried festival is the largest springtime arts festival in downtown Wilmington and will feature over 80 artists from NC and surrounding states, with local entertainment and refreshments. Applicants must submit a color photo of original work in acrylic, oils, watercolor, sculpture, drawing, graphics, wearable arts, leather jewelry, clay, glass, fiber, metal work or mixed media. Photographically or commercially reproduced work is also acceptable in limited editions, signed and numbered by the artist. An early bird entry fee of $135 will be offered until Apr. 28 and artists will be eligible for awards and $550 in prize money. www.wilmingtoncommunityarts.org.

Samantha Herrick, slherrick@thalian.org.

CATCHING THE SPIRIT

Images by Mark Gansor and Carole Osman presents a playful and serene mix of global and local scenes including acrylic paintings of buildings, gardens, and fields in Wilmington and France by Mark Gansor and pastels and acrylic paintings of Japan and Germany by Carole Osman. Meet the

artists; enjoy catering from Whole Foods; and listen to music by Cameron Tinklenberg, jazz pianist. Through Fri., April 7. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St. COLOR WORKS

Bellamy Mansion Museum features local artist Tom Conway’s original color photography exhibit, “Color Works.” Conway’s website is http://naturesportraits.org/gallery/. Free; donations appreciated. Exhibit on display through Apr. 2. Works are for sale by artist. www.bellamymansion.org. 503 Market St.

GRAPHICALLY SPEAKING

Exhibition of art by Bob Bryden, at Flytrap Brewing. Working with a variety of drawing and printmaking processes Bob overlays simple elements and patterns to create complex visual structures and translucent color fields. His work contains hidden images, undulating surfaces, and conflicting perspectives. His luminous abstract images animate the surface inviting the viewer to perceive and enjoy basic visual relationships in unique ways. Kickoff Bryden’s solo exhibition on March 9th while instrumental jazz musician Sean Howard and 2 Bros Coastal Cuisine dish out tunes and local street food. Bryden’s work will be on display through April 30. Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

ARTIST CAROLE OSMAN

Meet artist, Carole Osman on Sun., Mar. 26, 2-4pm for a gallery talk about her art in the cur rent exhibit “Catching the Spirit: Images by Mark Gansor and Carole Osman.” Born in New York City, Carole Osman has been drawing and painting since she was able to hold a pencil and paintbrush in her hand. She lived and worked in various countries including Japan, South Korea, Turkey, and Germany. Carole will share insights into her pastels, paintings, and travels including landscapes and roofscapes. Refreshments will be served. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St.

A SHOW OF HANDS

Mar. 29, 6pm: Hands say as much about a person as a face does, as a body type does, as a personality does. Do you agree? Come check out Anna Mann’s first photography show in Wilmington at the Wilmington Tasting Room at 19 S. 2nd Street from 6-9pm on March 29. The theme is, well, hands. These black and white portraits show a wide range of personalities from all around the Port City. Music provided by Vicki Burton, Callan Trippe with Patrick Carr, Margot Beberaggi, and more. And of course, beer and wine will be available. A Tasting Room, 19 S. 2nd St.

museums/education CAMERON ART MUSEUM

Exhibits: Beyond the Horizon: Exploring our evolving perceptions of the natural world, contemporary artists Maya Lin, Teresita Fernández, Jason Mitcham, and Colby Parsons employ unique mediums to unearth human interaction with the landscape. The four nationally and internationally renowned artists in Beyond the Horizon all aim to explore natural phenomena while challenging perception in the viewer. Lin’s artwork interprets the world through a modern lens, using technological methods to visualize and convey the natural environment; Fernández work delves into the psychology of looking and she is often inspired by rethinking the meaning of landscape and place; Mitcham’s work with animation began with his desire to incorporate time into a painting; Parsons’ work explores the distortion and textual qualities of video projection in intersection with

clay. • New! “From the Fire” (on view through Aug. 27) feat. Rick Beck, John Littleton, Pablo Soto and Kate Vogel celebrates the 55th anniversary of the studio glass movement, the influence of Littleton and the current innovative processes in contemporary glass. • CAM Café open and serving delicious menu with full bar, 5pm-9pm. Tuesday-Sunday 11am-2pm; Thursday nights, 5pm-9pm 910-3955999. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St. WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM

Wrightsville Beach 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. wbmuseum.com.

STARRING CAPE FEAR

New Hanover County’s Cape Fear Museum is proud to showcase highlights of the region’s film history with the opening of its newest exhibit, Starring Cape Fear! Visitors can explore the history of the local film and television production industry from the 1980s to the present day. View artifacts from several productions including Firestarter, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dawson’s Creek, One Tree Hill and Tammy. See a cape and the ear from Blue Velvet, an Iron Man 3 mask, and the jet ski beloved by Kenny Powers (Danny McBride) in Eastbound & Down. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St. Tues.-Sat., 9am-5pm; Sun.,1-5pm.

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 afterhours 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.

One of NC’s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans, for John Dillard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, planter and business leader; and his wife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (1821-1907) and their nine children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington. Now a museum, it focuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action.910-251-3700. www.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 kitchenbuilding and courtyard. 3rd/Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. 910-762-0570. www. burgwinwrighthouse.com.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Wed., Preschool Science, 10am; Discover Science, 3:30pm; and Mini Math, 4pm. • Thurs. StoryCOOKS, 10am; and StART with a Story, 3:30pm • Fri., Toddler Time, 10am; and Adventures in Art, 3:30pm • Drop off gently used books at our museum to be used for a good cause. Ooksbay Books uses book collection locations to help promote literacy, find a good use for used books, and benefit nonprofits. www.playwilmington.org. 116 Orange St. 910-254-3534.

kids stuff SUPER SATURDAY FUN TIME

Appropriate for ages 4-10, but all ages welcome.

Dock the Dog and Dock Street Kids for 10 exciting episodes of Super Saturday Fun Time, 3pm, TheatreNOW’s live theatrical show featuring local history and mystery and super guest stars, hosted by Captain Coy T. Plunkett (Zach Hanner). Live music, games, cartoons, short films, and his favorite surf “nuggets.” Dock Street Kids and their always-hungry dog, Dock, solve adventures. Parents can even drop off kids ages 5+. Kid-friendly snacks and drinks available for purchase. Custom birthday packages with a chance to interact with characters and step onstage in the action. 2017: Spring Show, Mar. 25, Summer Show, Jun. 24; Back to School Show, Aug. 19; Halloween, Oct. 28; Christmas, Dec. 16.

19 S. 10th St. SATURDAY STORY HOUR

Miss Shannon will lead interactive story hours for kids ages 3 to 6 on the first and third Saturdays of March, April, and May at the Main Library in downtown Wilmington. Saturday Story Hour is free and no pre-registration is needed.Opens with a picture book and end with a project or activity at the end, and include time to play, learn, and laugh in between. Each child should bring a participating adult. Shannon Vaughn: 910-7986303 or svaughn@nhcgov.com. 201 Chestnut St.

STORY EXPLORERS

CAM, every Thurs., 10-10:30am: Admission by donation. Bring your infant, toddler or preschooler for story time, gallery exploration and an art project! georgia@cameronartmuseum.org for more info. 3201 S. 17th St.

STORY ART

Special program for kids in kindergarten through second grade. At each session they’ll hear a

Thank you

for voting us Best Museum!

LATIMER HOUSE

Victorian Italiante style home built in 1852, the restored home features period furnishings, artwork and family portraits. Tours offered Mon-Fri, 10am4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. The Latimer House of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. Third St. 762-0492. www.latimerhouse.org

CAPE FEAR SERPENTARIUM

World’s most fascinating and dangerous reptiles in beautiful natural habitats, feat. a 12-foot saltwater crocodile, “Bubble Boy” and “Sheena,” a 23ft long Reticulated Python that can swallow a human being whole! Giant Anaconda weighs 300 lbs, w/15 ft long King Cobras hood up and amaze you. See the Black Mamba, Spitting Cobras, Inland Taipans, Gaboon Vipers, Puff Adders, and more! Over 100 species, some so rare they are not exhibited anywhere else. One of the most famous reptile collections on earth. Open everyday in summer, 11am5pm (Sat. till 6 pm); winter schedule, Wed-Sun. 20 Orange St., across from the Historic Downtown Riverwalk, intersecting Front and Water Street.

(910) 762-1669. capefearserpentarium.com.

BELLAMY MANSION

814 Market Street • Wilmington

910.798.4350 • capefearmuseum.com FREE ON-SITE PARKING

@capefearmuseum encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 55

SAVE $20 on a BIRTHDAY PARTY. Ask us how.

SUNDAY NIGHT

Sign up between 5pm & 7pm. Cost $40.00 per lane. Receive 2 hours unlimited bowling, rental shoes, a 16” pizza, 1 pitcher (beer or soda).

MONDAY NIGHT

2 hours unlimited bowling, light & music, 9pm-1am

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WEDNESDAY NIGHT 3 GAMES & Shoes $6.00 per person 8PM-CLOSE

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FRIDAY NIGHT HAPPY HOUR FRIDAY

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story that incorporates a different art concept, then have time to apply what they’ve seen and heard as they make their own art! Free but space limited.

Register www.nhclibrary.org for the dates your child will attend, to be sure of having enough seats and art materials. Julie: jcriser@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6303. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St. FRENCH PLAYGROUP

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

LEGO CHALLENGE

efit The Hope Center. Presale tickets $10, $12 at the door; Kids 6-10 $5; Kids under 6, free. www. brownpapertickets.com/event/2856623. Schwartz Center, 601 N. Front St.

classes ART CLASSES

Draw Light and Shadow with Pencil, Mon., 10amnoon or 2-4pm. • Coastal Critters in Water Color Thurs, 10am-noon or 2-4pm. • Draw Upon Your Creative Self! Fri., 10am-noon or 2-4pm. • Just Kids Workshop, Sat., 10-11:30am. Workshops $15—all materials are provided. • Printing With Natural Materials, Mon., 10am-noon or 2pm-4pm.

• Impressionist Painting, Tues, 10am-noon or 2pm4pm. $80/4 weeks. Supply list available. loislight@ bellsouth.net or call 910 547-8115. Sun Room Studio, 6905 Southern Exposure.

NHC Myrtle Grove Library, 5155 S. College Rd. Maureen Weinman, mweinman@nhcgov.com, 910-798-6393. Lego Challenge at Myrtle Grove BOOK NOOK Library is a fun way for kids to practice problem Hands-on computer workshop at Northeast Library solving, creativity, critical thinking, visualizing three is for avid readers! Librarian Carla Sarratt will walk dimensional structures, communication, and motor you through a variety of online tools for the readskills! Participating children may work alone or in ing community. At this training session you’ll learn groups. Legos are scheduled on the third Tuesday tricks and tips for discovering reading and readaof each month at New Hanover County’s Myrtle like suggestions using the Library’s own online Grove Library. The sessions are free for kids ages catalog and website, NoveList, and Goodreads.

5 to 10. Space limited, so prereg: www.nhclibrary.

Explore self-published books by Indie authors on org or 910-798-6393. 5155 S. College Rd. Biblioboard! Seats limited—pre-reg. rqd., free. www.nhclibrary.org. 910-798-6371. Carla Sarratt, LEGO ROBOTS 910-798-6371; csarratt@nhcgov.com. Northeast Mar. 31, 2pm: Families of young engineers and Regional Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. scientists will work together and bring LEGO to life.

Use kid friendly programming tools to build and FITNESS CLASSES program your first robot. Preregistration is required, Boot Camp, Tues/Thurs, 6 a.m.-7 a.m. Barre Fit please register here: www.capefearmuseum.com/ classes, Tues/Thurs, 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Hatha programs. Space limited to 25 participants. Appro(Gentle) Yoga, Tues, 10:45 a.m.-1:45 a.m. Kettlepriate for visitors aged 5-7 years old and an adult bell Training , Fri, 6 a.m.-7 a.m., starting in January. helper. Sponsored by Corning Incorporated FounVinyasa Yoga, Mon/Wed, 10:30-11:30 a.m.; Tues, dation and Landfall Foundation. Free for members 6:30.-7:30 p.m.; and Fri, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Low Imor with GA. (910) 798-4362. Cape Fear Museum, pact Aerobics, Mon., Wed., and Fri., 8-9 a.m. Tone, 814 Market St. strengthen and stretch classes, Tues/Thurs, 8:309:30 a.m. Admission: 910-256-7925. WB Park, 321 Causeway Dr. Mar. 31, 10am: Free. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in HEART HEALTHY NUTRITION SEMINAR Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploFour-class nutrition seminar series is a part of the ration stations and play related to a weekly theme.

YMCA’s evidence-based Blood Pressure SelfIn event of inclement weather, program moved Monitoring Program. Each 1-hour seminar covers inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their important nutrition topics that impact heart health. adult helpers. Adult participation is required. Little These seminars are a part of the Blood Pressure Explorers is sponsored by the PNC Foundation.

Self-Monitoring program but are open to the public Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St. and free of charge. Seminar 4: (April 12th, 12pmSATURDAY STORYTIME 1pm): Heart Healthy Eating for Life. www.wilmingApr. 1, 11am; Miss Shannon will lead interactive tonfamilyymca.org. Express YMCA, 11 S. Kerr Ave. story hours for kids ages 3 to 6 on the first and third PAPERMAKING CLASSES Saturdays of March, April, and May at the Main Wed., 6pm: Adults explore different papermaking Library in downtown Wilmington. Saturday Story techniques so you can make each sheet of paper Hour is free and no pre-registration is needed. unique. All materials included, but we encourage Saturday Story Hours will open with a picture book bringing in some of your own materials that you and end with a project or activity at the end, and can include into your paper—such as flat memeninclude time to play, learn, and laugh in between. tos and plants. See samples on our Facebook Each child should bring a participating adult. and website. • Adult and children classes held on Shannon Vaughn at the Main Library Children’s Sat., 2pm. Sign up: www.alunaworks.com. Aluna Room, 201 Chestnut St., 910-798-6303 /svaughn@ Works, 603 Castle St. nhcgov.com. 201 Chestnut St. SUPERHERO SCIENCE

CAPE FEAR WINE AND PAINT

outdoors/recreation CF ROLLER GIRLS SEASON OPENER

Come cheer on your Cape Fear Roller Girls All Stars as they take on Beckley Area Derby Dames and the Cape Fear Black Harrts as they take on Ring City Rollergirls in the first double header of the season! Bring the whole family for a night of action and excitement! Doors open at 4:30pm, first whistle is at 5pm. A portion of proceeds will ben-

Fri., 6pm: River to Sea Gallery hosts a Cape Fear Paint & Wine class taught by exhibiting gallery artist Rebecca Duffy Bush. Classes are $40 per person. Class will be held 6:00-8:00. Includes two glasses of wine or beer, a gorgeous view and a finished painting for you to take home. Space is limited and reservations are required. Message or call 910.763.3380 to reserve your seat today. www.capefearpaintandwine.weebly.com, $40 with 2 drinks, $35 without. River to Sea Gallery, 224 S Water St., Ste 1A

Lovey’s Natural Foods and Café

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METAL WORK AND JEWELRY CLASSES

Metal and wire work jewelry classes held every Tues., 10am-noon at the Hannah Block Community Arts Center at 2nd and Orange streets. $30/2 hour class (includes all supplies and tools for use in class). Pre-reg: Karen Keffer Pridemore, takeyourpickdesigns@yahoo.com.

OPEN YOUR HEART

Thank you encore readers for voting us best radio station, 98.3 The Penguin and best website, portcitydaily.com.

58 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

Meditation for creating happiness through a smile, opening our hearts to unlimited happiness and peace. Only through the heart can we experience joy, happiness, peace and calm. Join us for this deeply moving meditation and smile for your heart.

Pay what you can at the door. HARMONY: A Wellness Center & Yoga, 3504 N. Kerr Ave.

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

BOOK SERIES

Mar. 30, 11am: Join the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society for a Book Talk with Cedric Harrison, director of Support the Port and author of Wilmington, N.C. in Color: African American Historical Buildings Coloring Book. An optional lunch, catered by Jester’s Cafe, will follow the presentation. $5 for the presentation or $15 for the presentation and lunch. Space is limited, please call (910) 7620492 to RSVP. Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, 126 S 3rd St.

SOCIAL CONSTRUCTION AS SOCIAL SIGNIFICANCE

While it is commonplace in the humanities and social sciences to claim that something is socially constructed? What does that really mean? Some claim our social practices influence the way we think. A more radical claim is that the thing is itself socially constructed. This talk gives a general overview of social construction claims, with particular attention to the radical view. It then addresses some consequences for our understanding of gender, sex, race and other social categories. Dean’s Lecture Series in the Humanities, UNCW DeLoach Bldg. 114. 601 S. College Rd.

TRANS DAY OF VISIBILITY

Apr. 1, 7:30pm: Read from your own work the work of someone who speaks to your soul. Old Books on Front, 249 S. Front St.

PHIL BRUSCHI LECTURE: NEIL DIAMOND

Phil Bruschi presents this “Edu-Tain-Ment” on singer/songwriter Neil Diamond’s half century as an American pop music star. The program is free and reservations are not required. Inspired to take up guitar at age 16 by hearing Pete Seeger in a small concert, Diamond was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1984 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. He continues to draw crowds as a solo artist, and will embark on his 50 Year Anniversary World Tour in 2017. Bruschi will sing favorite numbers like “Sweet Caroline,” “Hello Again,” “Cracklin Rose,” and “September Morn” while discussing the highlights of Diamond’s career. www. philbruschisings.com. Teresa Bishop at 910-7986371 or tbishop@nhcgov.com. Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

MID-CENTURY DRIVEWAYS & DEVELOPMENTS

Apr. 2, 3pm: After World War II, America’s suburbs began to grow rapidly, and city neighborhoods often declined. Learn how these national trends played out in our area. Join Historian Jan Davidson as she explores 1950s and 1960s New Hanover County, and the neighborhoods that developed outside of the city limits. Free!

Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

clubs/notices FRIDAY NIGHT MAGIC

Format of Magic: The Gathering tournaments, held on Friday nights in gaming stores and associations all across the world. They are designed to be a beginner-friendly introduction to organized play. Standard format. $6 fee paid towards prize support for event. Prizes are a pack per win and also if you complete all 4 rounds. Event begins at 7pm, reg. begins at 6pm. Arrive early for event reg.

Free play, $6 entry fee first FNM Free. Cape Fear Games, 4107 Oleander Dr., Ste D.

BIRTH CIRCLE

Every 3rd Sat. come for our Birth Circle, something always different every month. Check out our website for more details of what we have in store this month & exact time of each event! thebumpandbeyond.com. Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave.

ILM COOPERATIVE SCHOOL

Mar. 29, 5pm: Come visit us at Wilmington Cooperative School, your local spot for cooperative, alternative education experiences! Kid friendly event with light snacks provided. See our school, meet our teacher and board members, tour and play in the school yard. Wilmington Cooperative School, 4830 Randall Pkwy.

RAIN GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Mar. 29, 10am: Join staff and volunteers to help maintain rain gardens and stormwater wetlands at Bradley Creek Elementary School in Wilmington.

The project is part of the Hewletts and Bradley Creek Watershed Restoration Plan, which aims to reduce the amount of polluted runoff that makes its way into the creeks. Rain gardens and wetlands help filter polluted runoff, protecting water quality and preventing swim advisories and shellfish closures. Rain gardens and wetlands also help to reduce hazardous flooding and provide wildlife habitat. Volunteers will remove invasive plants, pull weeds, prune trees and spread mulch in the existing rain gardens and wetlands at the school. All project supplies and equipment will be provided as well as snacks and refreshments. Open to the public and suitable for ages 8 and up. Bradley Creek Elem. School, 6211 Greenville Loop Rd.

FEATHER FRIENDS WORKDAY

Apr. 1, 10am: N.C. Coastal Reserve staff for a day of service and training as we set up an enclosure for the 2017 shorebird nesting season on Masonboro Island. Limited transportation is available or meet us at the Big Bay Landing on Masonboro Island. Tools and materials will be provided. Elizabeth Colhoun: colhoune@uncw.edu

culinary FERMENTAL

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

Fermental, 7250 Market St.

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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 our brewers and get two free samples.

BEER BINGO

Every Thursday night for beer bingo. No charge for cards. Great prizes. Food and drink specials.

Capt’n Bills Backyard and Grille, 4240 Market St.

AYCE OYSTER ROAST

Every Friday for All You Can Eat oysters, shell on shrimp, fried shrimp, hushpuppies and slaw. Only $34.95. Local oysters. Capt’n Bills Backyard and Grille, 4240 Market St.

FISH FRY

The Knights in Hampstead will hold a series of Fish Fry Events for Lent 2017. We will be available every Friday through April 7 at the American Legion Post 167, 16660 U.S. 17, Hampstead, North Carolina 28443. Serving time is from 4:30pm to 7pm. The ticket prices are $8.50 each. The meals include fried cod, hushpuppies, french fries, cole slaw and dessert. You can get the meal to go or eat it there. Tables will be set up and the Knights provide great conversation! All net proceeds donated to the Knights Charities! Tickets at door. American Legion Post 167, 16660 Highway 17

EDIBLE BOOK CONTEST

NHC Northeast Library announces their Edible Books Contest on April 1! This internationally celebrated event challenges participants to use edible products to present a literary theme such as a book, a book’s subject, or characters. Books will not be eaten but will go home with their creators after the judging and viewing. All ages welcome; participation is free, but advance registration rqd.: www.nhclibrary.org or 910-798-6371. Kelly Colacchio at kcolacchio@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371.

1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

support groups TRANGENDER SUPPORT GROUP

Transgender Support groups facilitated by licensed therapists in a private and safe location.

Four free monthly support groups for parents and family, children and teens, young adults, and older adults. All are phone screened for safety. Group information is given at the time of the screening.

Please contact Nova Swanstrom MA, LPA for more information. (910) 343-6890 x3009

WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP

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

CHADD

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

ANXIETY / OCD SUPPORT GROUP

Meets 1st and 3rd Thurs. of each month Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd.

Bldg B, 7-8:30pm. Christopher Savard, Ph.D., with Cape Fear Psychological Services, gives a presentation the 1st Thurs. a. month. 3rd Thurs. meeting is member led. Everyone 18+ welcome. Alayne at 910-763-8134 GRIEF GROUP

Lower Cape Fear Hospice will offer a grief program for those coping with the death of a spouse or partner. The group will meet Wed., through Mar. 22, 10am-noon, Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion, 1406 Physicians Drive in Wilmington. Preregistration is required; to register, call 796-7991.

Most of us have loved and lost special people in our lives and we understand that coping with grief is a challenging process. If you and/or your friends and family are having difficulty dealing with the loss of a loved one, we are here to help. Throughout the year, we offer compassionate care, educational and enrichment opportunities that support many types of loss in safe and familiar environments.

Because of our generous donors, these caring, no cost groups, camps and workshops are available to all. Your donation is always appreciated.

Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion, Conference Room, 1406 Physicians Dr.

PFLAG

PFLAG Meeting is first Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

Life Community Church, located inside Independence Mall, will have a Celebrate Recovery meeting every Monday evening at 6:30 pm starting with fellowship followed by a large group meeting at 7pm. Support groups for men and women follow at 8 pm. The meeting is in the Extension located across from Branches bookstore and the church auditorium. For more information. contact Jodie at

910-547-8973, 791-3859 or Lifecc.com. Life Community Church, 3500 Oleander Dr. PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Thurs., 6pm: Meets in Classroom C, Ground Floor.

Men and spouses welcome from the entire Cape Fear area. Discussion/programs. www.wilmingtonprostatecancersupportgroup.com. 910-792-9953.

EXPECTING MAMA’S CIRCLE

Sat, noon: Come chat with other pregnant mamas who are going through the same thing as you!

Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Breastfeeding USA counselor, and Postpartum Doula, Jess Zeffiro will moderate a free Pregnancy Meetup Group. Expectant mothers are invited to pop into the group at any time to share their stories, ask questions, and connect with great area resources.

Share your stories with each other and have any pregnancy and birth related questions answered in a supportive and caring environment. The Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave.

MS SUPPORT GROUP

Those with MS, families and friends welcome.

Meets at New Hanover Rehabilitation Hospital 1st floor conference room (behind Betty Cameron Women’s Hospital), 2131 S. 17th St. Second Thursday each month. Lisa, 399-7252; Burt, 383-1368.

tours LITERARY HISTORY WALKING TOUR

Explore the rich culture of our talented Southern town with a 90 minute walking tour of the literary history of downtown Wilmington, NC. Visit “The Two Libraries.” Walk the streets of your favorite novels, and stand where Oscar Wilde did when he lectured here. Saturdays, 1:30pm, Old Books on Front St. 249 N. Front St. www.brownpapertickets.

BrooklynArtsNC.com 910-538-2939

FREE PARKING • CASH BAR • ATM ON SITE Visit our website and join our mailing list for event announcements.

516 North 4th Street | Historic Downtown Wilmington, NC

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60 encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com

com/event/1282390 CONFEDERATE WALKING TOURS

Experience Wilmington’s people, history and architecture in the late antebellum period and during the conflict, conducted by noted Wilmington historian Bernhard Thuersam Walk in the footsteps of George Washington, James Monroe, Daniel Webster, Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis and more. Indepth 90-minute tours are by appt, Sunday through Saturday, 910-619-4619 or bernhard1848@gmail. com. Personalized tours downtown and local forts available. Foot of Market St. www.cfhi.net.

HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE TOURS

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

INSIDER’S TOUR

Curious about the Cape Fear? Explore the history of your 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. Preregistration is required: 910-798-4362 or cfmprograms@nhcgov.com. Free w/general admission or membership. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

GHOST WALK

6:30 & 8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted Wilmington. Nightly tours at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. Admission charge. Water & Market sts. RSVP rqd: 910794-1866; hauntedwilmington.com

JAMES F. POST ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR

Mar. 25, 2pm: Join the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society for a walking tour featuring the architecture of James F. Post, Wilmington’s premier 19th century architect who designed the Latimer House, Bellamy Mansion, McKoy House, and others. Tour departs and concludes from the Latimer House Museum. Free for LCFHS members, $12/person, or $10 for AAA/Military/Students. Space is limited, please call (910) 762-0492 to RSVP. Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, 126 S 3rd St.

OAKDALE HORTICULTURAL TOUR

Apr. 1, 10am: Eric Kozen and Mary Hultman, two plant enthusiasts, have over 40 years of horticultural experience and will delight you with their knowledge of the flora of Oakdale. There are truly magnificent specimens found in Oakdale and both Eric and Mary will tour the grounds showing off the true gems of a rural garden cemetery. Tour begins at 10:00 am at Oakdale Cemetery, 520 N 15th St. Fee is $10 non-members and free for members.

Tours cancelled in case of inclement weather.

ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20)

The dragon that stole your treasure will return it. Tulips and snapdragons will blossom in a field you thought was a wasteland. Gargoyles from the abyss will crawl into view, but then meekly lick your hand and reveal secrets you can really use. The dour troll that guards the bridge to the Next Big Thing will let you pass, even though you don’t have the password. April Fool! Everything I just described is only metaphorically true, not literally.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

According to legend, Buddha had to face daunting tests to achieve enlightenment. A diabolical adversary tempted him with sensual excesses and assailed him with vortexes of blistering mud, flaming ice and howling rocks.

Happily, Buddha glided into a state of wise calm and triumphed over the mayhem. He converted his nemesis’ vortexes into bouquets of flowers and celestial ointments. What does this have to do with you? In accordance with current astrological omens, I hope you will emulate Buddha as you deal with your own initiatory tests. April Fool! I wasn’t completely honest. It’s true you’ll face initiatory tests that could prod you to a higher level of wisdom.

They’ll most likely come from allies and inner prompts rather than a diabolical adversary.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Since I expect you’ll soon be tempted to indulge in too much debauched fun and riotous release, I’ll offer you a good hangover remedy. Throw these ingredients into a blender, then drink up: a 1,000-year-old quail egg from China, seaweed from Antarctica, milk from an Iraqi donkey, lemon juice imported from Kazakhstan, and a dab of Argentinian toothpaste on which the moon has shone for an hour. April Fool! I deceived you. You won’t have to get crazy drunk or stoned to enjoy extreme pleasure and cathartic abandon. It will come to you quite naturally—especially if you expand your mind through travel, big ideas or healthy experiments.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

Hire a promoter to create gold plaques listing your accomplishments and hang them up in public places. Or pay someone to make 1,000 bobblehead dolls in your likeness, each wearing a royal crown, and give them away to everyone you know. Or enlist a pilot to fly a small plane over a sporting event while trailing a banner that reads, “[Your name] is a gorgeous genius worthy of worshipful reverence.” April Fool! What I advised was a distorted interpretation of the cosmic omens. Here’s the truth: The best way to celebrate your surging power is not by reveling in frivolous displays of pride, but rather by making a bold move that will render a fantastic dream ten percent more possible for you to accomplish.

tors syndiCate

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

Endangered species: black rhino, Bornean orangutan, hawksbill turtle, South China tiger, Sumatran elephant, and the Leo messiah complex. You may not be able to do much to preserve the first five on that list, but, please, get to work on saving the last. It’s time for a massive eruption of your megalomania. April Fool! I was exaggerating for effect. There’s no need to go overboard in reclaiming your messiah complex. But, please, do take strong action to stoke your self-respect, self-esteem, and confidence.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Race through your yoga routine so you have more time to surf the Internet.

Inhale doughnuts and vodka in the car as you race to the health food store.

Get into a screaming fight with a loved one about how you desperately need more peace and tenderness. April Fool! A little bit of self-contradiction would be cute, but not that much. Yet, I do worry you are close to expressing that much. The problem may be you haven’t been giving your inner rebel any high-quality mischief to attend to. As a result, it’s bogged down in trivial insurrections. So please give your inner rebel more important work to do.

In 1804, Lewis and Clark explored

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Research shows a typical working couple devotes an average of 4 minutes per day in meaningful conversations. I suggest you boost that output by at least 10 percent. Try to engage your best companion in 4 minutes and 24 seconds of intimate talk per day. April Fool! I lied. A 10-percent increase isn’t nearly enough. Given the current astrological indicators, you must seek out longer and deeper exchanges with the people you love. Can you manage 20 minutes per day?

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

In a way, it’s too bad you’re about to lose your mind. The chaos that ensues will be a big chore to clean up. In another sense, losing your mind may be a lucky development. The process of reassembling it will be entertaining and informative.

As a result, your problems will become more fascinating than usual—and your sins will be especially original. April Fool! I lied, sort of. You won’t really lose your mind. But this much “is” true: Your problems will be more fascinating than usual, and your sins will be especially original. That’s a good thing! It may even help you recover a rogue part of your mind you lost a while back.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

You say some of the healthiest foods don’t taste good? And some of your pleasurable diversions seem to bother people you care about? You say it’s too much hassle to arrange for a certain adventure you know would be exciting and meaningful? Here’s what I have to say about it all: Stop whining. April Fool! I lied. The truth is, there will soon be far fewer reasons for you to whine. The discrepancies between what you have to do and what you want to do at least partially will dissolve. So will the gaps between what’s good for you and what feels good, and between what pleases others and what pleases you.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

You should begin work on a book with one of the following titles, and you should finish writing it no later than April 28: “The Totally Intense Four Weeks of My Life When I Came All the Way Home,” “The Wildly Productive Four Weeks of My Life When I Discovered the Ultimate Secrets of Domestic Bliss,” “The Crazily Meaningful Four Weeks When I Permanently Anchored Myself in the Nourishing Depths.” April Fool! I lied. There’s no need to actually write a book like that. I do hope you seek out and generate experiences that would enable you to write books with those titles.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

If you were a passenger on a plane full of your favorite celebrities, and the pilot had to make an emergency landing on a remote snowbound mountain, and you had to eat one of the celebrities in order to stay alive until rescuers found you, which celebrity would you want to eat first? April Fool! That was a really stupid and pointless question. I can’t believe I asked it. I hope you didn’t waste a nanosecond thinking about what your reply might be. Here’s the truth, Aquarius: You’re in a phase of your astrological cycle when the single most important thing you can do is ask and answer really good questions.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

You now have an elevated chance of finding a crumpled one-dollar bill on a sidewalk. There’s also an increased likelihood you’ll get a coupon for a 5-percent discount from a carpet-shampoo company, or win enough money in the lottery to buy a new sweatshirt. To enhance these possibilities, all you have to do is sit on your ass and wish really hard for good economic luck to comey. April Fool! What I just said was kind of true but also useless. Here’s more interesting news: The odds are better than average that you’ll score tips on how to improve your finances. You may also be invited to collaborate on a potentially lucrative project, or receive an offer of practical help for a bread-and-butter dilemma. To encourage these outcomes, all you have to do is develop a long-term plan for improved money management.

encore | march 29 - april 4, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 61

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