March 2, 2010

vol.

25 / pub 35 / FREE / MaRch 3-9, 2010

www.encorepub.com

Drive-By Truckers make it on

relentless determination and play Greenfield Amphitheater on March 5th.

encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com

“Voted BEST BUFFET, SOUL FOOD and FAMILY RESTAURANT by encore readers” Miss your Mama’s cookin’ come home to Casey’s!

WENESDAY

Meatloaf: 11AM-9PM Chicken Gizzards & Chicken Livers: 11AM-4PM Carved Ham: 4PM-9PM THURSDAY

Brunswick Stew: 11AM-4PM Baked Spaghetti: 11AM-4PM Hamburger Steak: 4PM-9PM Deviled Crab: 4PM-9PM FRIDAY

BBQ Pork Ribs w/red sauce: 11AM-4PM Fried Shrimp: 4PM-9PM Deviled Crab: 4PM-9PM Carved Roast Beef: 4PM-9PM

SATURDAY

Hot Wings, Fried Pork Chops, Hamburger Steak: 11AM-4PM Fried Shrimp: 4PM-9PM Deviled Crab: 4PM-9PM Carved Roast Beef: 4PM-9PM SUNDAY

Turkey, Ham, Roast Beef, BBQ Chicken, Dressing, Ovenbaked Cornbread, Homemade Biscuits

Be sure to trye our homemad! tartar sauce

Over 20 Homestyle Vegetables and Fresh cooked Eastern North Carolina BBQ Pork cooked daily

ALSO SERVED DAILY...

Fried Chicken, Baked Chicken, Chicken & Pastry, Catfish, Whiting, Clam Strips, Fat Back, Crinkle Fries, Chitlins, Rutabagas, Green Beans, Mac-N-Cheese, Sweet Potato Soufflé, Cabbage, Boiled Potatoes, Corn, Field Peas, Turnips, Collards, Baked Beans, Green Peas, Lima Beans, Rice, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Coleslaw, Potato Salad, Pan Fried Okra, Rolls, Hushpuppies, Apple, Blueberry & Peach Cobbler, Cherry Cheesecake, Banana Pudding and Ice Cream

Family owned and operated by Larry and Gena Casey 5559 Oleander Drive Wilmington, NC 28403-5813 (910) 798-2913 2 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

OPEN: Wed.-Sat. - 11am-9pm, Sunday - 11-8pm CLOSED MONDAY & TUESDAY

Every Sunday is Thanksgiving!

hodge podge

vol. 25 / pub 35 / March 3-9 2010

www.encorepub.com

What’s inside this week

ANT

is

contents

PAGE 2 : COVER STORY The Penguin 106.7 is kicking off their spring and summer concerts at Greenfield Amphitheatre, starting with Southern rockers Drive-By Truckers this Firday night, March 5th. Music writer Adrian Varnam interviewed the band about their stay-power in the industry, and how their hard work and dedication has lead them to a musically enlightening road, where the make their own rules.

Check out page 23, and get tickets to the show at 1067thepenguin.com.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 the day of the event.

concert tickets

Want to see the best in music at Myrtle Beach’s House of Blues? Or UNCW’s Kenan Auditorium? Visit, www.encorepub.com, to enter one of our many concert contests, and try for a chance to score tickets to area shows!

Questions need to be e-mailed only to shea@encorepub.com. The deadline is April 20th, 5pm. encore offices are located at 210 Old Dairy Road, Suite A-2. If you’re mailing the entry, please do so to following address: encore magazine, c/o Paw Jam Contest PO Box 12430, Wilmington, NC 28405.

dog cover model contest late-night funnies It’s back! We’re looking for the cutest dog in Wilmington to feature on our April 28th cover, previewing the annual Paw Jam. The event will take place May 1st at Battleship Park, 11am-5pm.

To enter the contest, here’s what you have to do: Send us a pic of your pooch with a check for $10 per entry (that’s per picture) made out to PAWS of North Carolina, the official Paw Jam organizer. All monies will be donated to the foundation, and if we choose your doggie’s pic, then he or she will grace our cover, and we’ll interview him or her, too, featured inside the pages of encore.

It’s a great day for former Vice President Dick Cheney, who was released from the hospital today. He’s doing well. Doctors say he’ll be up and shooting lawyers in no time.”—Craig Ferguson “Yesterday, Oprah’s entire set was made of chocolate. See, this is what happens when Oprah gets high.”—Jimmy Kimmel “We’re finding out a lot about Joe Stack.

That’s right, Joe the Suicide Bomber, the guy who flew the plane into the IRS office building in Texas. Boy, I knew teabaggers were mad, I didn’t know they had an air force.”—Bill Maher

EDITORIAL: Editor-in-ChiEf: Shea Carver

pRODucTIOn AnD ADvERTIsIng:

intErns: Sarah Boggs

AdvErtising sAlEs:

ChiEf Contributors: Adrian Varnam, Anghus Houvouras, Carolyna Shelton, MJ Pendleton, Claude Limoges, Jay Schiller, Lauren Hodges, Tiffanie Gabrielse, Tom Tomorrow, Chuck Shepherd, Chirstina Dore and Lisa Hunyh

John Hitt: Downtown, Carolina Beach

Art dirECtor Sue Cothran

Kris Beasley: Wrightsville Beach, N. Wilmington Shea Carver: Midtown, Monkey Junction Promotions mAnAgEr: John Hitt distribution: Reggie Brew, John Hitt

encore is published weekly, on Wednesday, by Wilmington Media. opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of encore.

CorrespondenCe: p.o. Box 12430, Wilmington, n.C. 28405 email@encorepub.com • www.encorepub.com phone: (910) 791-0688 • Fax: (910) 791-9177

“You’re watching CBS, home of the 1998 Winter Olympics.”—David Letterman

word of the week

pablun: \PAB-luhm\ , noun; 1.Something (as writing or speech) that is trite, insipid, or simplistic.

2.(capitalized) A trademark used for a bland soft cereal for infants.

Origin: Pablum comes from Pablum, a trademark used for a bland soft cereal for infants.

joke of the week

Question: What do you call a boomerang that doesn’t work?

Answer: A stick!

azalea fest concerts

Some of our readers may have already heard the news, but just in case, allow us to reinforce the word on the street: The 2010 Azalea Festival announced their concerts, including the Goo Goo Dolls with Collective Soul on Thursday, April 8th, and Montgomery Gentry on Friday, April 9th.

Tickets are $45 and can be purchased online at etix.com.

mother’s day entries

Also, we’re looking for funny, endearing, loving or any other kind of story readers would like to submit about their mothers. The best stories will be featured in our Mother’s Day edition, May 5th, and we’ll choose a winning entry, too, which will receive admission-plusone into our VIP kickoff party during 2010 Wilmington Restaurant Week. The party is April 27th, and the deadline for submission is April 20th. E-mail or mail entries to encore, c/o Mother’s Day Contest. Shoud not be longer than 600 words, please.

news & views.................4-19

4-17 encore’s 2010 Best-Ofs: Continue reading who came out on top in our annual Best-Of poll, wherein over 3,000 ballots were cast by the local community.

This issue announces best wings, barbecue, local film, comedy troupe and so much more!

18 feature: Christina Dore finds out the scoop on the possibility of having a Wilmington Public Market—a daily market prospectus that could potentially be built in the median between Front and Second streets, on Market.

19 news of the weird: Chuck Shepherd reports on news of the strange and odd.

encore exchange...........1x-40x

2x letter from the editor: Shea Carver gives an

overview about this month’s KIDZink features in encore exchange.

4x kidz club: Shea Carver interviews fifth-grade Geography Bee winner Kaleb Ferguson.

6x teacher spotlight: Lauren Hodges gets the dish from local art teacher Abby Spangel Perry about working with local youth.

7x school profile: Children’s Schoolhouse celebrates 25 years!

8-9x kidz at work: See what local students are drawing around town.

10-11x limelights: Sarah Boggs gets the dish on school and local organizational news.

12x games and puzzles: Sudoku and other interactive games.

14x summer camps: Check out the places to let the kids run free, while learning and keeping their active minds engaged, this summer, from science to art to sports.

15-39x classifieds: Let our classifieds help you sell or buy a home or a car. Crossword on page 25.

artsy smartsy .................21-33

21 theater: MJ Pendleton previews Guerilla Theatre’s latest production, “Namaste, Indiana.”

23-25 music: Adrian Varnam interview Drive-By

Truckers; Sarah Boggs talks to Hammer No More the Fingers, playing the Soapbox this week; and Lisa Hunyh gets the skinny on UNCW’s latest online radio station, Hawkstream.

26-29 soundboard: See what bands and solo musicians are playing in venues all over town.

30-31 film: Anghus interviews Bo Webb of Cucalorus fame about their upcoming fund-raiser, An Evening at the Oscars; Anghus reviews Scorcese’s latest thriller, Shutter Island.

32 art: Lauren Hodges interviews Erica Morgan on her next exhibit at Edge of Urge.

27 gallery guide: Find out what exhibitions are hanging in our local art galleries.

grub & guzzle .................37-39

35 dining review: Shea eats at the new San Juan Cafe for an updated taste of Latin-American cuisine.

36-39 dining guide: Need a few suggestions on

where to eat? Flip through encore’s dining guide, and read about our featured restaurant of the week.

extra! extra! ...................40-47

40 feature: Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown features a residents’ free day, March 7.

42-47 calendar/’toons/corkboard: Find out

where to go and what to do about town with encore’s calendar; check out Tom Tommorow and encore’s annual ‘toons winner, Jay Schiller; read the latest saucy corkboard ads.

encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com

below-17 2010 Best-Ofs 18 Wilmington Public Market 6 News of the Weird

The Best of the Best! encore announces its third batch of winners from the 2010 Best-Of Reader’s Poll

W

e’re into week three of announcing our Best-Of winners for 2010!

It only took counting over 3,000 ballots, making 130 awards by hand, and throwing a party for 300-plus people at City Stage/Level 5. But we’ve made it—and with a lot of laughter along the way, thanks to our comedian hosts of the Best-Of Party: Jef Pollock, Sandy Vaughan, Anthony Lawson, Val Watkins, Jonathan Guggenheim, Cullen Moss, Madison Weidberg and Janna Murray.

They made the awards ceremony so much more than boring speeches and prim-andproper decorum.

Make no mistake about it, readers: BestOf is not tabulated according to encore-staff

editorial by: Shea Carver and Emily Rea photos by: Jim Cirello, Chad Keith and Courtney Bridgers picks; nor are its winners relegated only to encore advertisers. We award the folks who get the most votes between November and January, according to ballots the community fills out at www.encorepub.com. And to set the record straight: We don’t mind when people campaign for it either. (Hey, isn’t it the American way?)

Without further ado, the people have spoken, and here are the results for the Best-Of 2010. Congrats winners and voters!

WE ARE ENCORE... Our hosts of the 2010 Best-Of Awards Ceremony opened the show with their own rendition of “We Are the World”—also known as “We Are Encore.” (l. to r.) Jonathan Guggenheim, Cullen Moss and Jef Pollock.

take out When Wilmington Japanese-food lovers want quick, reliable, quality service, without the time it takes to sit down at a traditional Japanese steakhouse, the in-and-out style of Hibachi Bistro on College Road (and now with a second location in Monkey Junction) is exactly what the hunger pangs order. Specializing in “authentic Japanese hibachi cuisine and sushi,” according to thehibachibistro.com, this unassuming little eatery packs a powerful punch in the quality of its food.

The menu at Hibachi includes such delectable items as Vegetable Tempura (for which guests can choose between two of the following: zucchini, sweet potato, green pepper, onions or mushrooms), Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura, the Hibachi Bowl, served with fried or steamed rice (and choice of meat, ranging from Hibachi Scallops to Teriyaki Chicken to Filet

4 encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

Mignon), Hibachi Noodles (wheat noodles with celery, green peppers, carrots, Soba sauce and meat of choice), soups and, of course, spring rolls.

The ever-popular sushi menu includes appetizers such as edamame and gyoza, nigiri (including smoked salmon, red snapper, yellowfin tuna, octopus and crab meat), sashimi (including shrimp, squid and eel), sushi rolls (including a Vegetable California Roll, Sunrise Roll, Sweet South Roll and Spider Roll), fried sushi and specialty rolls (including the Tiger Tail, Nessie, Ruby Roll, Fort Fishy, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Po’ Boy, Half Baked and Green Machine).

With so many delicious choices, all prepared by skillful chefs, and with the option to pick up or take out, it should come as no surprise that Hibachi Bistro is the Port City’s favorite take out for the second year in a row now.

Second place in the take-out category is Antonio’s Pizzeria and Ristorante, while third place goes to Nikki’s Fresh Gournet and Sushi.

ice cream I scream, you scream, we all scream ... Is there ever not a good time for ice cream?

The most delicious week of Spring!

"QSJM .BZ

Some of the Port City’s finest restaurants will offer awe-inspiring prix-fixe meals prepared especially for this week.

The Melting Pot

Port City Chop House

Mixto

Aubriana’s

South Beach Grille

Verandah Cafe

Pilot House

Banks Channel Pub & Grille

Elijah’s

at the Holiday Inn-Wrightsville Beach

Katy’s Great Eats Yo Sake Flaming Amy’s

Flat Eddies Henry’s Eddie Romanelli’s Leland Location

Flaming Amy’s Bowl

Carolina Ale House

East

Cape Fear Seafood

Caprice Bistro

Fat Tony’s Jamaica’s Comfort Zone

inside the Blockade Runner Hotel

Heironymus o Sign up t ail receive em or updates f Week t n a r u a t Res 2010

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse Priddy Boys The Little Dipper Catch Siena Trattoria Wrightsville Grille

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Granted, the chilly confection might not be as welcoming during the winter months, but when we have an ice-cream connoisseur in town like Kilwin’s, no one can resist its smooth, sweet goodness year ‘round! That certainly applies to our Best-Of voters who sent Kilwin’s to the top of their lists!

When the name “Kilwin’s” comes to mind, it is without a doubt for the yummy treats for which the establishment is so well-known—but it is also because the name itself is one Wilmingtonians can trust. Family-owned by Bill and Kathy Williamson (owners of the two locations in Blowing Rock, too) and operated by longtime friend/Kilwin’s manager Jeff Brandon, Wilmington;s location first opened in the summer of 2001. Now going on 10 years strong, as it turns out, the franchise itself is family of nationwide confectionery shoppes, up and running from Rhode Island to Florida to Colorado and 10 states in between. The name is one patrons can trust—but the ice cream itself, well, it’s a pretty strong reason for repeat business.

The old-fashioned quality of the ice cream at Kilwin’s is simple and brilliant, untampered and purely indulgent. Although the shop can boast 500-plus made-in-store products, the ice cream is absolutely the favored treat here. As the Wilmington location site, www.kilwins.com/Wilmington, asserts, “It’s always about relationships and making people happy.”

I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM: (l. to r.) Kilwin’s continues scooping out the best ice cream for encore voters in our annual Best-Of poll; Cullen and Anthony strike a pose onstage during the Best-Of Awards, held February 9th at City Stage/Level 5.

Other happy ice-cream eateries that made our top-three list for the ice-cream category this year are Cold Stone Creamery and Boombalatti’s.

beer and wine shop Every year in mid October, when the heat of summer has relented and the seasons boast a glorious change, there is a festival here in town that is just as well-known as any other the Port City hosts over the course of a year: the Lighthouse Beer and Wine Festival. Locals and out-of-towners alike flock to the site of one of the greatest on-site beer and wine tastings in the area, all brought about by the infamous Lighthouse Beer and Wine, winners of this year’s Best Beer/Wine Shop.

“We’re a store like none other,” owner Jason Adams reflects. “We have the largest selection of specialty beers in eastern North Carolina, and we’re also the longestrunning beer and wine shop in Wilmington, in business for over 12 years.”

A one-stop shop for wine, beer, cigars, and specialty-food items, a catering company and even a gift store (with everything from T-shirts to wine racks), Lighthouse has it all. “Our philosophy is making people happy,” Adams continues. “We have something here for everyone, from PBR to high-end Bordeaux. We have a really cool, eclectic wine selection and an on-premise beer garden which allows people to sample different beers. We also have monthly tastings.”

Beer lovers will appreciate their stock over 400 international beers, as well as hard-to-find microbrews. Another one of

6 encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

Lighthouse’s specialties is kegs, as they are home to one of North Carolina’s largest keg selections with hundreds of different beers available to choose from. All in all it begs to be said that Lighthouse shines the way to a good time.

Second and third are Cape Fear Wine and Beer, and Wilmington Wine and Beer.

martini bar Sometimes, a girl just wants a martini.

There is something about the fresh, spiked taste that slides down so easily and with a full force of flavor. There is something elegant, sophisticated and just plain fun about sipping on that tell-tale martini glass, perched atop a bar stool with girlfriends, as the fruity, sweet or bitter taste leads the way to friendly conversation.

When Wilmington locals want a good martini in their most favorite atmosphere, they head to The Dirty Martini, “where you dress up to get dirty,” according to its official site at www.ditrymartiniwb.com. The Dirty, as it is sometimes called, is a stylish and classy hot-spot, perfect for relaxing with friends, making new ones, dancing the night away or simply enjoying the lusty martini list. It is also a great venue for special, private parties, well-equipped with a spacious interior, and even a cozy, romantic outdoor patio.

But everyone knows they come for the good stuff. Special martinis at The Dirty include the Beachytini, Bikinitini, Sex in the City, Foxy Roxy, Lakeside Lemonade, Pomegranate, Key Lime Pie, Upside-Down Pineapple, Blue Crush, Bloody Mary Tini, Ultimate Chocolate Martini, Summer Tea, and Carmetini. The menu is worth a visit

on its own, but The Dirty maintains a hoppin’ events schedule, including a Food and Wine Fest, benefit parties, and Business After Hours every last Thursday of the month. Going above and beyond, The Dirty Martini is much more than just a martini bar. But don’t misunderstand—they make a mean ‘tini!

Shaken and stirred at our number-two and -three spots this year are Caprice Bistro and Sofa Bar, and TreBenzio’s.

bowling alley If there was ever an activity that has stood the test of time, relating to all generations, personalities, genders and levels of athletic ability, it’s bowling. Stripping us of all pretense and pride from the moment we slip on those goofy, multi-colored shoes, our main objective becomes to simply have fun. Whether we’re a member of a league or just hanging out with friends for a few rounds, bowling always seems to turn a boring night (or afternoon) into something completely enjoyable!

When folks in Wilmington want to bowl, the majority of our readers head on over to Ten Pin Alley on College Road. No stranger to our Best-Of polls, Ten Pin has truly become a staple in the Wilmington recreation scene. Open since 1999, Ten Pin is one of the largest bowling alleys in the greater Wilmington area. It boasts 24 lanes with state-of-the-art electronic scoring, tons of TVs, and an adjacent billiards room and bar, Break Time (Best Pool Hall).

Not only are the facilities at Ten Pin all we could want in a bowling alley, but the price is right, too. The daily daytime bowling special is just $6 for kids and $8 for adults, “all you can bowl,� and both include shoe rentals. Conveniently, Ten Pin’s friendly and prompt staff delivers service right to customers’ lanes at any time of day or night.

Come on Mondays through Fridays from 6-10pm for nightly leagues, or come for open bowling with lane rental by the game or by the hour. There are also packages for birthday parties, and arrangements can be made for group gatherings.

Striking in at second and third places, respectively, are Cardinal Lanes and the new Thunder Alley in Leland.

place to buy musical instruments There is no doubt that history and legacy runs rampant among our downtown establishments and streets. From the historic cobblestones of Water Street to the many old buildings preserved and renovated over the years, one thing the Port City isn’t lacking is character. And one of the best examples of one such business that epitomizes the character of downtown is Finkelstein’s Music.

Musical genres and trends may come and go, but the instruments themselves remain vital to producing it. And when Wilmington’s most musically inclined need something to play, they ask the folks they trust at Finkel-

Family owned and operated since 1999

THANK YOU, AND GOODNIGHT: Bobby Hamelburg accepted the award for Finkelsten Music, who won Best Place to Buy Musical Instruments yet again in our 2010 poll.

stein’s. Yes, the word “trustworthy� might as well be engraved in the sign bearing this store’s name, as they have been in business and serving our town since 1906.

First run by Charles Finkelstein, it began as a general store that also sold watches, jewelry, clocks, musical instruments, trunks, cutlery, leather, sporting goods and clothing. As the store evolved over the years, it became known as a leading musical-instrument dealer in all of Wilmington. Today, they are still best known for the instruments they provide, including Fender and Martin guitars, a large selection of basses, amps for beginners up to professionals, drums and percussion accessories, audio equipment, DJ equipment, and keyboards. They also sell a large selection of jewelry. With such large collections, friendly service and a family-owned atmosphere, Fineklstein’s is to go-to spot for all music needs.

Chiming in at second and third are Music Loft and Modern Music.

theatre venue With its grand, regal stature, huge white columns and “Old South� appeal, Thalian Hall stands today as one of downtown’s most historically captivating sites. And the best part? It’s still in use! Built in 1858, Thalian is still “one of the most significant theaters in the United States,� according to www.thalianhall.com.

Since 1963 the theater has been under the management of the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts (THCPA), which operates the Thalian Hall Main Stage, the City Council Chambers and Ballroom, the Studio Theatre, and the Center Box Office. THCPA produces the Main Attractions Concert Series, the Adventures in Art Series for families, and the Cinematique Film

We’ll treat your pet like one of our own!

Series, not to mention the numerous plays held here by By-Chance Productions, Opera House Theatre, Thalian Association, Stageworks Youth Theatre and Theatre Exchange.

Its events range from music—featuring pop, jazz, folk and country artists—to ballet, to the finest in domestic, independent and foreign films. Thalian is also home to recitals, awards ceremonies, film festivals, lectures and charity events.

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Celebrating our eleven year anniversary!

5226 S College Rd # 11 (910) 790-9954 encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com 7

As an education center with a broad array of unique performances and programs, Thalian is a mecca for all arts-oriented folks in the greater Wilmington area and beyond.

With its recent renovations under way, we’re sure to be celebrating another fabulous 150 years!

Coming in at the number-two and -three spots, respectively are City Stage and Red Barn Studio.

GET READY TO RUMBLE: (l. to r.) Sandy Vaughan smiles and teases the audience at the annual awards ceremony; A representative from DV3 Productions accepts the award for Best Filmmaker, 2010.

filmmaker “And ... action!” It’s a phrase we locals may hear a lot around this town. With big-budget films, a well-known TV show and several local projects taking place all

To Our loyal PatronsThank you for voting us

Best Waitstaff and Best Neighborhood Bar in Wilmington!

Join us again for our annual

at once, Wilmington has been long been dubbed “Hollywood East.” Although we do get great national exposure, the heart of our film community here consist of the locals behind it. So when encore readers voted DV3 Productions as best, it was an honor to say the least.

“Our win probably has a lot to do with our

trailer for Nevermore,” producer and business manager Larry Olson says humbly, speaking of DV3’s first full-length film they are producing. “We’ve made some shorts and so on, but this trailer, probably as much as anything, looked like a Hollywood trailer even though it was produced locally.”

Along with his director sons, Obin and

St. Patty’s Day Celebration and

7th year Anniversary Party!

We look forward to continuing our tradition of great food, drinks & service throughout 2010!

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10 Market Street, Downtown Wilmington 815-0810 • www.capricebistro.com

OPEN 7 DAYS at 5pm

Amariah, Olson has run DV3 for the past nine years, mostly doing commercial projects both high- and low-end. “If we get a local project, something more low-budget,” he continues, “we bring high-budget tools and techniques. So I think people are aware of that.”

Of his motto as a filmmaker in this highly competitive industry—something he would advise to other filmmakers—Olson says, “’Just do it,’ like the Nike slogan. It doesn’t mean anything until you actually do it. We felt like we could do something at the Hollywood level, and we just did it.”

Other local filmmakers deserving of praise and rounding out our top three are Southern Gothic and Eric Tomosaunas of Swirl Films.

around town.

Our site is our virtual print product.

We upload the same editorial that we print each week in the magazine, including years and years’ worth of archived editions. Check us out for film listings, movie reviews, art-gallery guides, recommendations for where to eat, op-eds, concerts and contests, free stuff, and so much more.

New this year encore has joined the ranks of Facebook and Twitter as well— so readers will never be out of the loop!

Thanks for voting us the best, and keep logging on. We are happy to provide the latest arts and entertainment alternative news, whether it’s in print or online.

Runners up in the Web site category are Dog Club of Wilmington (www.dogclubwilmington.com) and WB Live Surf web site Not to toot our own horns or anything— (www.wblivesurf.com).

Oh, OK, why not. We have won Best Local Web site, and we are proud of it! Our very alternative medicine own encorepub.com has taken top honIt is widely believed that our bodies are ors again this year, much to our delight and in their best conditions when we are most gratitude. We have to admit, we’ve come in tune with nature. Whether we relegate a long way in recent years, especially with it to a substantially organic diet or simply new additions, such as getting the latest make room in our schedules to forgo the encore delivered straight to your Inbox ev- busy life, and take walks in the park or on ery Wednesday! That’s right; sign up online the beach, living naturally is proven to have and never be behind on what’s happening great effects on our physical, mental and

NAUGHTY TIME: Jonathan and Cullen pay homage to categories of Best-Of past, including Best Guilty Pleasure.

emotional well-being.

The folks at McKay Healing Arts understand this at their core. Providers of a truly integrative, holistic approach to health care, Leon McKay and staff provide a unique array of disciplines, including acupuncture, massage, counseling, cranio-sacral therapy, Reiki, Tai Qi, Qi Gong and complete herbal pharmacy. The staff specializes in pain and emotional-relief therapies, with individual concentrations including arthritis, back pain, herniated fisk, neuropathy and Carpal Tunnel; fertility and women’s issues; and workshops on personal growth.

Perhaps best-known for acupuncture, McKay is very well-equipped and experienced in this most ancient practiced medicine in the world, one that originated in China and whose professional practitioners don’t just treat diseases but the entire person. Leon has been practicing in Wilmington since 1999, and his clientele base know they can trust him for all their alternativemedicine needs. We expect to see his practice on our Best-Of lists for years to come; it would only be natural.

Second place this year in the alternative medicine category is The Center, while Tidal Creek took third.

Cruisers Car Wash and Detail Center The Cruisers team sincerely thanks you, once again, for voting us the #1 Car Wash in Wilmington for the eighth year running. We promise to continue our daily commitment to excellence.

Clint James

Brandon Blizzard

Curtis Boyer

The Cruisers Management Team

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Cruisers Car Wash and Detail 325 South College Road 799-0070 encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com 9

fast food If readers have ever been out and about at lunchtime anywhere in the Port City, chances are they have seen the lines of cars wrapped around the building of one of our six Chic-fil-A restaurants. With the most cheerful voices we’ve ever heard taking orders from literally hundreds and hundreds of customers each day (except on Sundays!), it’s a place we Southerners just can’t seem to get enough of. And how could we not with the “world’s greatest sweet tea”?

But at the helm of the entire Chic-filA franchise is the man himself who gives this company such a great foundation: Truett Cathy. With son Dan, the Cathy’s run a very successful chain of restaurants with integrity, focus on the community and never a compromise to their values.

Truett opened his first restaurant in 1946, and by the 1960s he was credited with the invention of the boneless breast of chicken sandwich, as well as the official foundation of Chic-fil-A, Inc. Growing by leaps and bounds ever since—with the help of those renegade cows and their “Eat Mor Chikin” ads—the restaurants have spread across the country and stolen customers’ hearts faster than we can say, “Would you like fries with that?” And

that would be waffles fries to be exact,

LARGEST TEQUILA SELECTION IN WILMINGTON!

Voted Best Pizza and Best Late Night Eatery All ABC Permits • Dine in or Take Out Lunch • Dinner • Late Night 11:30a.m. until 3a.m.

Open 7 days a week 365 a year!

Sorry no delivery • All major credit cards accepted

122 Market Street, Downtown Wilmington • (910) 251-9444

1437 Military Cuttoff rd. (next to PTs Grill)

256-2229 www.grabslice.com 10 encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

AWARDS AND HAIR, EVERYWHERE! (l. to r.)

Anthony Lawson shows his love for exempting one of last year’s Best-Of categories from the 2010 poll: Best Laser Hair Removal; Madison Weidberg shows her hot skills as Best-Ofs very own Vanna White.

Chic-fil-A’s signature cuts of potatoe that well complement a chicken sandwich ... or chicken nuggets ... with some of that delicious honey barbecue sauce ... and definitely a sweet tea .... and how about one of those brand-new yogurt parfaits?

Any way we look at it, Chic-fil-A knows exactly what hungry patrons want and need at mealtime and beyond—and we don’t expect those lines to dwindle any time soon.

Runners up in the fast-food category this year include Cookout and McDonald’s.

sub/sandiwch shop It’s no secret that Wilmington, in all its Southern charm and coastal glory, is a major draw for Yankees. They come a cruisin’ over the Mason Dixon to make a home inside our leisurely abode, taking full advantage of a slower pace of life with the “shore” nearby to remind them of home.

(Just experiment with paying closer attention to license plates across town to prove this phenomenon true!) And while locals still tout the hateful bumper stickers telling tourists and transplants to take I-40 West and use it, there is definitely a piece of the North around here that no one can deny having a good old-fashioned crush on: Jersey Mike’s Subs.

Jersey Mike’s began—where else?—in

New Jersey in 1956 and offered a unique new product: the submarine sandwich. As its popularity grew over the years, so did Jersey Mike’s menus and locations, which today include our very own Port City. One reason remains the same for why customers at the very beginning were drawn to the franchise, and it’s also why Wilmington voters selected Jersey Mike’s as best: their subs.

Try the Jersey Shore’s Favorite (provolone, ham and cappacuolo) or The Original Italian (provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami and pepperoni). Other favorites include the Albacore Tuna Fish, The Veggie, the Chipotle Cheese Steak, the Chicken Parm, and the Club Supreme (roast beef, turkey, swiss cheese, bacon, mayo, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, vinegar, oil and spices).

Besides these cold and hot subs, Jersey Mike’s also offers wraps (including Buffalo Chicken, Baja Chicken and Chicken Caesar) and fresh salads. Using only the finest ingredients and offering catering, as well, it’s no wonder this northern staple has become a Port-City staple, too.

Second place this year goes to Subway, while Quizno’s takes third.

salads “[For the French], cooking is viewed as a major art form: Innovations are celebrated and talked about as though they were phrases in the development of a style of painting or poetry. A meal at a truly great restaurant is a sort of theatre you can eat.”

So goes the Richard Bernstein quote on the official Web site of Brasserie du Soleil, a beautiful French café tucked away in a corner of Lumina Station in Wilmington.

The quote could also be this eatery’s motto, as attention to quality and presentation are part of what makes it such a special dining experience. It’s the kind of place that locals might want to keep a secret, hoarding its revelries to themselves so as not to spoil the luxury of a getaway meal inside its doors. Such is the feeling of a Brasserie meal: a getaway, an escape to the heart of France where the luxe and comfortable atmosphere also famously serves beer, wine and simple, hearty food. While special interior features include a zinc bar, woodcarvings from a downtown church, tin-roof tiles and 6,000 feet of molding, what really draws Wilmington Best-Of voters back

time and time again are the salads.

Salads at Brasserie are ordered a la carte, made to customers’ designs from a selection of over 30 fresh ingredients.

Greens come in chopped romaine, baby spinach and mixed, while other ingredients include a variety of hearts of palm, artichoke hearts, kalamata olives, shaved fenel, poached pears, candied pecans, toasted pine nuts, goat cheese, reggianno, crispy bacon, sliced ham, hard-boiled egg and the additional options of meats such as salmon, white anchovy and tuna steak. Dressings include a wonderful sherry vinaigrette, as well as a lemon variety, bleu cheese and Caesar. Open for lunch Monday through Saturday (11:30am-5pm), and dinner Sunday through Thursday (5-10pm) and Friday and Saturday (5-11pm), Brasserie du Soleil must be experienced to believe.

Coming in at second and third places, respectively, are Ruby Tuesday’s and Rucker John’s.

health food store Do we know where our food comes from?

When we shop the chain grocery stores, pick up food through a sliding door at the drive-thru or stand in line to choose from a generic menu, how do we know what’s really going into our bodies? Any member and/or shopper at Tidal Creek Co-op in Wilmington can answer that question with confidence.

The co-op is Wilmington’s cooperative market of natural foods where members own the entity, and the food is always fresh and locally grown. As the co-op’s official Web site, www.tidalcreek.coop, explains, “[We] work to insure a 100-percent GMOfree and hydrogenated oil-free shopping experience, make organically produced foods central to all departments, and purchase from small farms, local growers and companies with ethics and standards similar to the Co-op’s whenever possible.”

“Tidal Creek formed to meet the needs of its owners and community,” Jessica Burtt of marketing and membership services at Tidal Creek asserts. “[We have] quality, great food and excellent customer service.”

The Co-op Kitchen at Tidal Creek includes a café, deli and salad bar, while the food-market department includes groceries, produce, wellness, deli, bulk, and beer and wine. “[We are] focused on locally grown and produced products to support our local economy,” Burtt continues.

And, of course, as members know: Stimulating the local economy is not the only benefit to shopping Tidal Creek—it’s the assurance and healthfulness that comes from eating organic and local. Burtt says the greatest compliment received here is, “I trust the Co-op.” While great taste and service speak volumes, that trust is what keeps patrons coming back for more.

Coming in at the second- and third-place spots this year in the health food category

WINNING DOG: A Trolly-Stop representative stepped onstage all smiles to accept the award for Best Hot Dog—a prize the local hot-dog shop is privy to, seeing as no one has ever beat them off the poll.

are Lovey’s Market and The Fresh Market.

massage therapist Oooh, ahhhh...

No, I’m not writing about watching fireworks. I’m writing about the amazing and addicting feeling of getting a massage. As the tension is released from our shoulders, necks and backs, all the way to our toes, a good massage is a spectacular way to spend any afternoon ... or morning ... or night! When Wilmington voters need a good rub-down and knead, they turn to the mighty and able hands of Richard Lascell, LMBT, at Bangz.

“I have been around for over 10 years as a massage therapist and have lived in Wilmington for over 18 years,” Lascell says. “I work at all hours. Providing for those after work for evening appointments, as well as providing office massages, donating to charitable events, and having a flexible schedule that is dictated by my clients. I stay busy!”

To accommodate the changing businessscape due to a receding economy, one move Lascell has made was to drop his prices to offer a $45 hour massage. “Decrease your price to increase production; that business will come,” he reasons.

But one thing Lascell never compromises is the quality of his work. “The biggest change,” he says of his work over the years, “has been having a more equal amount of male and female clients. Over 10 years ago, it was majority female; now it’s more 50/50.”

Providing excellent and beneficial therapy for relaxation or aches and pains, Lascell concludes that in his line of work (or any, for that matter) people must do what they like. “If you don’t like it, the people you work for will know it,” he says. Wilmington

voters have spoken—Lascell loves and is great at his job.

Other hand-kneading, oooohs-inducing massage therapists rounding out our top three are Christina Letters and the students at Miller Motte.—Emily Rea

hot dog Relish, kraut and ketchup. Slaw, mustard and onions. Cheese, bacon bits and mayonnaise. Jalapenos and chili. No mat-

ter how the dog gets dressed, it always tastes good going down at Wilmington’s famed hot-dog joint: Trolly Stop.

Family-owned and operated, the Trolly Stop began as a meager stand in Wrightsville Beach, where schlepping dogs to beach-goers among warm summer days lead to a much greater franchise. Its popularity soared, in fact, leading it to open its downtown doors, followed by locations elsewhere in Wilmington and across the state. Today, a Trolly dog has become the epitome of not just summertime snacking but anytime gnoshing.

Serving Smithfield all-meat, Sabrett allbeef, Oscar-Meyer fat-free and even Lifelite veggie dogs, one and all styles of eaters can order from their menu. Add to it a slew of toppings, including the best homemade slaw and chili in town—a true Southerner’s toppings of choice—and the Trolly dog gets better by the minute.

In fact, those Trolly folks are so ingenuitive that they have even created their own hot sauce, which gives more zest to a Battleship, North Carolina, Nuclear or German dog—or any of their dogs, for that matter. And just in case die-hard Trollyheads crave the sauce outside of the restaurant, well, Lowe’s Foods on College Road carries the brand—even more reason to send mad props to our local dog heaven, serving Wilmington 30 years-plus strong.

Other hot dogs joints to score votes are

Flaming Amy’s is looking for Wilmington’s next Big star!

We need a song/jingle to use in radio and television advertisements, and we want YOU to write it!

Bands, Singers, Closet Music Makers…ANYBODY. Just put together a 30-60 second song or jingle, Burn it to a CD and drop it off at any Flaming Amy’s or Gravity Records.

Taking submissions through March 31st, 2010

Pick up entry forms and details at any Flaming Amy’s or Gravity Records.

Winning song will be used for Flaming Amy’s commercials and advertising.

Top 10 entries will be asked to perform their song/jingle live at Soap Box. Winner will be chosen by our Celebrity judges, musical experts form Gravity Records and some help from the live audience!

All Top 10 winners will receive a Flaming Amy’s Gift Bag

1st place: $200 CASH MONEY and $100 Flaming Amy’s Cash 2nd place: $150 CASH MONEY and $75 Flaming Amy’s Cash 3rd place: $100 CASH MONEY and $50 Flaming Amy’s Cash

encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com 11

Jeter’s and Paul’s Place

barbecue

Serving the best local items with a modern twist by supporting North Carolina’s organic farmers, local fisheries and sustainable fishing practices.

Catch Downtown - 910.762.2841 Catch on Market St - 910.799.3847

What do you get when you combine healthful, organic foods from locally-grown farmers, with a clean, fully-stocked store and a friendly, helpful staff?

Wilmington’s favorite HEALTH FOOD STORE Thanks a ore bunch enc readers!

Tidal Creek Cooperative Food Market 5329 Oleander Drive • 910-799-2667 www.tidalcreek.coop mon-sat 8-8; sun 9-8

12 encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

It’s a Southern staple so ingrained in our culinary diet, we aren’t sure if the pig came before the sauce or the sauce before the pig. Either way, there are many local spots that cook the swine so fine, it tempts our taste buds over and over again with a vengeance. encore readers prefer Jackson’s Big Oak Barbecue, slowly cooked and hickory smoked nightly, just as the Jackson family has been doing since 1984.

Jackson’s Big Oak menu claims to serve barbecue that has a “balance of mild seasonings and vinegar,� a combination that most certainly gives it that distinct eastern North-Carolina flavor. Whether ordering ribs or pulled pork, on a sandwich or by itself, there is no wrong way to eat the barbecue at Jackson’s. Add to any order a side of their homemade Brunswick Stew—pulled pork, chicken, lima beans, corn, green beans and potatoes, in a rich tomato stock—or one of their many vegetables, and it’s like indulging in a feast for a Southern king.

If barbecue isn’t something suitable to the palate (gasp!), well, then Jackson’s weekday specials will titillate the taste buds, too, as Chicken and Pastry gets served on Mondays and Wednesdays, and Baked LemonPepper Chicken on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. They also serve barbecue chicken, available in quarters or halves, along with fried tenders, chicken salad, grilled cheeses and even veggie plates for the meatless eaters. Just leave room for their homemade banana pudding!

Other places revered for their pig include Smithfield’s and Casey’s Buffet, Barbecue and Home Cookin’.

oysters They do bakes in the North and roasts in the South. Some eat them raw on the half shell. Others prefer them smothered in cheese, parsley, butter and bread crumbs.

Fried, steamed or in a stew, no matter how the pearls of the sea are indulged, our readers prefer getting theirs at Dock Street Oyster Bar, located downtown Wilmington on Dock Street, of course.

Serving seafood lovers since 1999, the folks at Dock Street always bring in fresh oysters daily, and, more impressively, they’re never fried. In fact, that was what the owners, Louise Forbes and Steve Maillard, had in mind when opening the seafood haven: They would specialize in seafood in its purest flavor, serving it only steamed or grilled. The concept has paid off, despite living in the South where even frying a Snicker’s bar is totally normal.

Dock Street has entreÊs, sandwiches and delectable appetizers. But, really, it’s their steamer menu that boast an impressive list of sea fare. Sweet crab legs, scal-

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS: Sandy and Jonathan serve up a plate of good ol’ fashioned raffle tickets and fatback—two items served up at the BestOf 2010 Awards Ceremony.

lops, shrimp, clams, mussels, crawfish and the oh-so-sweet oysters come by the dozen, pound, peck, or cluster. For a taste of everything, order the steamer platter, also served with corn and potatoes. It’s lowcountry fare that Southerners adore.

Other oysters shucked on our Best-Of poll come from Hieronymus and Shuck and Shack in Carolina Beach.

breakfast “It’s the most important meal of the day!�—so my father always told me during my middle- and high-school years. “It’ll give you energy and keep you focused!� Today, breakfast is still something I eat consistently, thanks to Dad’s love for bacon and eggs, pancakes and fruit, coffee and juice.

I am not alone either, judging by the many votes that came in for our Best Breakfast category. In Wilmington, one place continuously ranks high on our poll, and, well, she whistles Dixie.

Yep, Dixie Grill has swept through the grease and fire for years in our breakfast category, most likely because they churn out the best Louisiana hash in town: eggs, potatoes, andouille sausage and other stuff, all piled high and sizzling hot to the table. It’s an item on their menu they’ve mastered so well they sometimes run out of it—which is a true testament that it’s not only popular but made fresh to-order.

In fact, so much from the Dixie is original, from their homemade sausage to their sweet potato pancakes (yes, that’s right!).

They also make one mean bowl of oatmeal, according to my mother.

The coffee is fresh; the restaurant itself, always open to a new face. Just beware of the Sunday crowds—the line is often out the door.

Other breakfast spots encore voters frequent include Causeway Cafe and I-Hop.

chain restaurant Aside from Wilmington’s many momand-pop eateries that our voters love so much, the occasional chain restaurant also has its place in tempting the appetite. The grub from Outback Steakhouse keeps our readers’ tastebuds happily dancing, whether indulging in their Bloomin’ Onion, Crab-Stuffed Shrimp or one of many steak specialties.

With the current financial woes many families across the nation are facing, Outback is making their food accessible to everyone, boasting 15 meals under $15, including their Outback Special sirloin, Teriyaki-marinated sirloin, a Filet Tenderloin and Stuffed Shrimp combination plate or their Outback Grillers. They also serve affordable sea fare, burgers and sandwiches, along with a host of freshly made sides.

Just leave room for dessert: The Sweet Sampler Trio will tantalize every sweet tooth, as three desserts, including the Nutter Butter Peanut Butter Pie, Classic Cheesecake and the Chocolate Thunder from Down Under, come in one heaping serving. Pair the experience with drink specials from their fully licensed ABC bar, and the meal is made for champions, just as the restaurant stakes claim in our 2010 poll.

Other chain eateries topping our list are Carrabba’s and Bonefish Grill.

lunch

I can attest Sweet and Savory is Wilmington’s Best Lunch. I eat there quite frequently, as their homemade breads and

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SAVE THE DATE!

Sunday April 18, 2010 Featuring LIVE music by Bibis Ellison & The Spare Change Band Join us as we kick off our

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soups are the best in town. Collards and BBQ beef, turkey and dressing, tomato basil, chowders and stews of all varieties make their way on their soup specials, which boast up to five selections a day. Pair a cup with one of their sandwiches for the most satisfying midday meal. I personally love their Rawhide (roast beef and cheese on a pita, with mushrooms and onions), as well as the Miss Piggy (grilled ham and American cheese, roasted red peppers, red onions and a smoked tomato aioli on an English muffin) or the Hot Tamale (turkey, pico de gallo, Havarti cheese and jalapeños on multi-grain bread).

The bakery not only has a large sandwich menu, which includes many vegetarian and seafood options, they also do burgers, dogs and salads. Located on Pavilion Place, right before Airlie Road off Eastwood, Sweet and Savory bustles during lunch hours, as their reputation for serving quality food with friendly service keeps them top-of-mind among the Wilmington foodscape. But lunch isn’t their only claim to fame. They do outstanding breakfasts, which include so many flavorful homemade pastries that just walking in the restaurant early in the morning will send the senses into overload.

As of late, Sweet and Savory has also began doing a chef’s table during dinner, hosted by their finest hands in the kitchen thanks to Josh Petty. Every Thursday night diners can make a reservation for $40 a head, limited to 12 diners only, to indulge in fanciful and creative creations from Chef Petty. Having attended two already, the food does not disappoint, especially for those who enjoy indulging in fine cuisine with a flair. Scallop ceviche (served with habanero shaved ice atop—for real!), duck confit salad, monkfish, braised short ribs and raspberry creme brulée showcases one menu sample. From what I tasted, Chef Petty takes great pride in his food, flexing pristine culinary craftsmanship through his weekly Chef’s Table menus. One week, every course featured pork, including chocolate and bacon variety for dessert. The next week he did everything-duck, including a consommé with duck dumplings made from the fowl’s heart, liver and other innards.

Sure, it sounds adventurous, but don’t knock it ‘til trying it; it was lovely on the palate. Just make reservations early, and enjoy dining family-style with other Wilmingtonians. It’s a great way to meet other foodies in town and enjoy a dinner party at one of Wilmington’s greatest restaurants.

Other lunch spots ranking on the Best-Of poll include Pine Valley Market and Tempta-

Saturday, from 11am-2am, and Sunday, from noon to 2am, they always have a table waiting. Just come early on Wing Tuesdays and Boneless Thursdays, when they offer the best of their chicken at discount prices—35¢ apiece on Tuesdays and 50¢ apiece on Thursdays. Oh, and during major game days, again, come early; both locations tend to pack up pretty quickly. But nothing’s better than celebrating a win or two with like-minded sports (and wing) fans!

Kudos BWW! Wild Wing Cafe and Katy’s Great Eats also topped our polls with encore votes.

performer

BIBIS-ING THE BEST-OF: Bibis Ellison floored attendees of the Best-Of Party with her amazing vocals and loop-station talents, along with acoustic guitar playing, as she won Best Performer 2010.

tions Everyday Gourmet.

wings

The drumsticks and wings at Buffalo Wild WIngs keep diners clucking about town like chickens with their heads cut off.

It could be because their numerous sauce choices make BWW all the rage in our wing category—and we can see why. Mango Habanero, Asian Zing, Spicy Garlic, Teriyaki, Caribbean Jerk, Honey BBQ, or their traditional Mild, Medium, Hot and even Blazin’ sauces turn bland wings into something decadently different upon every bite.

While wings, whether bone-in or boneless, continue being the draw to BWW, that they’re a sports bar housed with gazilions of TVs and beer-on-tap means they know how to keep sports fans happy and fulfilled.

Our locations, off College Road on Van Campen Boulevard, and on Carolina Beach Road in Monkey Junction, are committed to local and regional fanfare, always playing the Panthers’ games on the big screens, not to mention all the college basketball games that make North-Carolinians seem rather insane (Tar Heel, Blue Devil, Demon Deacon and Wolfpack fans alike). Hockey, baseball, wrestling, racing—it’s heaven on earth for sports fanatics.

Wings. Beer. TVs. Open Monday through

Her vocals have cascaded over audiences across Wilmington for the past few years. Most have been hypnotized upon first hearing her; others continue to be transcended by the powerful force of her words, as her soul seems to pour out of her vocal cords. Bibis Ellison began singing when she was “in the womb,” and it’s her singing that welcomed her first appearance on our Best-Of poll, scoring Best Band/Performer for 2010.

“It’s sort of overwhelming,” she told encore last week. “Wilmington’s been sort of overwhelming. I really love what I do and really, really appreciate how much people seem to enjoy it. The fact that people appreciated me back makes me want to work harder, sing louder and high-five everyone.”

Ellison performs cover songs with her Spare Change Band every Tuesday night at The Whiskey downtown, and they’re continuing to add to their schedule with monthly standing gigs at Grand Union Pub in The Forum and Fibber McGee’s near Wrightsville Beach (full schedule available at www. myspace.com/bibisellisonband). She also plays solo, original music, showcasing her talent as a songwriter, with a gig booked at the Soapbox on May 21st, when she’ll share the bill with a group of her friends, Mount Moriah from Chapel Hill.

“My original stuff and the Spare Change Band are like apples and oranges, who are good friends,” she explained. “I think they’re exciting in entirely different ways.

The Spare Change Band is this fun, inyour-face, loud, party band—we’re people who love music, who play for people who love music, you know? My original stuff is sneakier. It’s quiet and more introspective; it’s the flip side of the band with just as much love. I like it that way, though. I like being thought of as multi-faceted—and being appreciated for both.”

Her fans flock to her shows to hear her renditions of Pat Benatar’s “Love is a Battlefield,” Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” and U2’s “With or Without You.” They dance, they sing along and they cheers the band’s impeccable musicality. At the end of the day, they’ll be the same fans who bend their ears to hear Ellison’s originality shine

through in her solo work.

“I will always have a special place in my heart for the song ‘Foxes,’” Ellison spoke of her catalogue of songs. “She’s a sneaky little thing, that song. I wrote her six years ago, and she meant something entirely different then than she does now, and I love that about her. People seem to really relate to that song in their own ways—and I like thinking that the song can be taken the way people want to take it. I’m proud of her.”

Next on the agenda: recording. “It’s official, you can punch me if I’m lying,” she quipped. “I did the song ‘I’ve Gotta Town for You’ for Americatown (congratulations to them on their Best Local Film win!) with Fred Champion at his house, and the song worked so well that I kind of stalked Fred for a little while about the idea of recording, and he finally caved. I like the idea of using natural sounds and a natural space for my music and I can’t think of a better spot. So at the beginning of March, we’re going to get started! I will safely say that the record will be out this year.”

Before she takes her show on the road, Wilmington music lovers should get out and support Wilmington’s finest talent. Straight from the horse’s mouth, she claimed, “I want to make what I do bigger and better.”

No doubt, she most certainly will.

Paco Strickland and ASG scored votes on our poll, too.

movie Americatown. It’s a place of only 1,000 citizens, where landmarks and conventions of America as we know it exist—just maybe in an off-kilter way. “For example, Americatown has a giant rock with faces of old people carved in it (Mt. Rushmore) right across the street from the world’s most awesome water park (Niagara Falls),” Kenneth Price, director of encore’s Best Local Film, 2010, told us last week. Currently in

BOF FRI FLEU-ERS: Our comedian hosts play out the Best Film, Americatown, made in part by Jonathan Guggenheim (third from the left), which uses the famed cut-out-face signs in this hilarious feature-length, showing at Jengo’s Playhouse March 4th-6th at 8pm.

the red, white and neon blue country, its town’s tour guides, Roosevelt Microsoft and Plymouth Rayban, are working steadfast to keep it safe, while trying to understand why on Earth anyone would every want to leave.

Having filmed the feature-length comedy last year in Wilmington, before trekking across the “Land of the Free” with the stars of the film, the Superkiiids! Cory Howard and Jonathan Guggenheim, as well as local art director Chad Keith, they released an uncut version at Cucalorus back in November. “We were really lucky to land that screening, because I don’t think most filmmakers have the opportunity to get a couple of hundred people together to view something that isn’t finished and are willing to give honest feedback about what does and doesn’t work,” Price continued.

Since, they have been in the editing room, doing final tweaks. Price has added “an original soundtrack by Seth Moody, an amazing animated title sequence, about 10 minutes of the stuff that, for one reason or another, just didn’t work, and a bunch of stuff in 4D that will make the movie more into an interactive experience”—something he says will be akin to watching Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Shot over a 9,000-mile road trip, the motley crew of filmmakers saw America in a lot of its glory, from the Alamo to Hollywood Boulevard to Times Square. Even though they were hard at work, the fun and hijinks were never at bay.

“The afternoon we spent filming in the middle of the White Sands National Park in New Mexico was pretty special,” Price

encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com 15

The most delicious week of Spring!

"QSJM .BZ Some of the Port City’s finest restaurants will offer awe-inspiring prix-fixe meals prepared especially for this week.

The Melting Pot Aubriana’s Verandah Cafe

at the Holiday Inn-Wrightsville Beach

Katy’s Great Eats Yo Sake Flaming Amy’s Flaming Amy’s Bowl East

Eddie Romanelli’s Leland Location

Carolina Ale House Cape Fear Seafood Fat Tony’s Jamaica’s Comfort Zone Mixto

inside the Blockade Runner Hotel

Pilot House

Caprice Bistro

Elijah’s

Heironymus

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

Port City Chop House South Beach Grille

Priddy Boys

Banks Channel Pub & Grille

The Little Dipper

Flat Eddies

Siena Trattoria

Henry’s

Wrightsville Grille

Catch

Sponsored by:

XXX 8JMNJOHUPO3FTUBVSBOU8FFL DPN 16 encore | march 3-9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

YAY FOR MAYFAIRE! Paige McKenzie, director of marketing, can’t contain her happiness for accepting Mayfaire’s win yet again for Best Shopping Plaza.

remembered. “We all almost passed out from the heat, Jonathan threw a smoke bomb directly up into the air that landed on Chad. and I was so blinded by the sun that I shot for about an hour with the lens halfway covered by the camera’s matte box. It was a crazy day, and I still have sand in the van but we ended up with some of the best footage from the film.�

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday this week (March 4th-6th), Americatown comes to the big screen at Jengo’s Playhouse. The production will start at 8pm and folks can get in for a mere $5. Best of all, it will be hosted by the one and only Superkiiids!

Other local films taking a spot in our poll include Nevermore and 4 Gin and Tonics.

comedy troupe Nothing compares in life to having fun.

It’s that simple. If having fun weren’t a priority, our lives would read like symptoms from an anti-depressant medicine bottle: irritable, moody, lack of interest in any-

thing, extreme fatique...

Thanks to people like Wilmington’s very own Superkiiiids!, having fun always ranks high on the life-list—in fact, they have it down to a science. “The formula is as follows,� Jonathan Guggenheim, one-half of Superkiiids!, who also hosted encore’s Best-Of Awards ceremony at the beginning of February, said: “HE = PI x C/T + BM PI = personal involvement.

C = complexity of a joke.

The higher degree of complexity, the better provided that your audience can solve the problem within one or two seconds.

T = time spent by a person solving a joke. The longer the time, the weaker the effect.

BM = background mood.

A joker can have an advantage if an audience enjoys the show. However, a real good joke can ‘blow up’ the most dismal audience.

HE = humor effectiveness.�

Sharing the stage with Cory Howard, who has moved from Wilmington yet still remains here according to Guggenheim, thanks to his superpowers of practicing “The Resonance Theory of Simultaneous Existence,� the two often embark on gaggles of tricks and very physical skits that keep the laughs rolling. Their characters and jokes appeal to many, too, from young kids to 80-year-olds. “We’re basically following Darwin’s model of the evolution of creative thinking,�

Guggenheim explains. “Creative thinking is modeled as a re-linkage of connections among mental representations, occurring in relationship to gene-culture heterarchy, which is a system of causative and motivational connections among the individual, the innate regularities of cognitive development, and group behavior.�

Scientific mumbo-jumbo aside, the two connect like white on rice, coffee and cream, peanut butter and jelly. Their fame has lifted them to greater heights, too. “Whilst having a drink with a dear friend and fellow Superkiiiiiid! just last week, he said, ‘With fame I become more and more stupid, which of course is a very common phenomenon.’ Then he stuck out his tongue and I took a picture.�

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Don’t miss the kiiids! at Jengo’s Playhouse March 4th-6th at 8pm for the screening of their latest feature-length comedy, Americatown. Cost is $5 at the door.

Changing Channels and Nutt Street Comedy Club performers came in second and third.

something right. Other shopping centers to be recognized are Lumina Station and Hanover Center.

delicatessen

shopping plaza Located on Military Cutoff Road is a haven for many shoppers. Miles upon miles of stores align the thoroughfare, beckoning all Eddie-Bauer lovers, Williamsand-Sonoma junkies, Banana-Republic fiends and J.-Crew addicts.

Among the many stores are many restaurants, too, in a bevy of flavors: Tokyo 101, Brixx Pizza, Fox and Hound sports bar and Melting Pot fondue.

Mayfaire Town Center has become a must-stop on anyone’s scheduled shopping-spree date.

“Mayfaire has brought something unique and different to Wilmington,” Paige McKenzie, director of marketing, told us, “all in an openair, pedestrian-friendly setting reminiscent of small-town USA.” Considered an “innovative retail lifestyle center,” Mayfaire “has embraced the mixed-use concept [to] continue to grow.”

And they’re doing so in ways beyond simply serving shoppers.

They reach out charitably, too, by being a part of Shop 2 Help Your Schools and partaking in many holiday promotions, “all [to] create a vibrant environment where people can live, work and play.”

McKenzie promises their dedication to continuously listen to customers to better their services and evolve. “We want to strive everyday to improve and provide a pleasant, unique and entertaining experience,” she noted. “By having flexibility to add, change and reconfigure existing structures, Mayfaire has the unique ability

COOL IT DOWN: Val Watkins shows her her cool coolats, provided by Edge of Urge, Best Women’s Clothing store, as Jef prepares to hand out another batch of super-cool wins.

to be highly responsive to the market and tenant needs. And that’s why Mayfaire will continue to thrive, just as it was envisioned to do.”

Their win comes numerous years now consecutively, meaning they’re doing

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Nothing can be more satisfying than a hearty wedge or roll from Wilmington’s favorite delicatessen, Taste of Italy. In fact, the New-York family who runs the establishment has been doing a fine job at converting Southerners into the enjoying real Italian dining for years. They make the most outstanding meatballs in town (have it on a roll to enjoy what a true meatball sub should taste like), along with fresh ragout that would make Grandma proud. Pasta dishes transform a blasé lunch into something appetizing, and any of their fresh-cut meats (try the pastrami!) build a monstrous sandwich—literally, there’s, like, a pound of meat on them.

As if the homemade eggplant or chicken parm, baked ziti or lasagne, stuffed shells or tortellini aren’t enough to captivate the taste buds, come for their many deli salads: macaroni, bow-tie, antipastos, cucumber-and-tomato or roasted red pepper. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any sandwich. With the large blocks of provolone and parmigianoreggiano, casings of salami and loaves of bread available at the counter, it makes for a rustic, old-school New-York deli right among our Southern streets.

The sweets shant be passed over here either. They sell sinful brownies dusted with

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worst politician That we still have this category humors me. Really, any one person in office could probably be featured here, but this year we have a bonafide winner: RC Soles, D-Columbus County.

Soles hits on a pretty high note of worst politician, but not for “bailing out” big businesses or having an affair with someone on the campaign trail or avoiding taxes on his home—no, no. Soles is accused of assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious bodily injury.

It was August 23rd when the senator and longest-serving legislator shot Kyle Blackburn, 22, in the leg at the senator’s home in Tabor City. Soles claims he only acted in self-defense after hearing Blackburn and an accomplice kicking in his front door. However, police said Soles stepped out into his front yard to shoot the perps.

Thus, the bullet entries didn’t correspond with a self-defense plea.

Soles was indicted on January 7th and plead guilty to the misdemeanor charge on February 26th to avoid felony charges. He paid $1,000 in fines before being freed.

The senator will not be seeking re-election.

Mayor Bill Saffo came in second, with Paul Knight (who ran for mayoral office in November and lost) ranking third.

—Shea Carver

Next week’s edition will feature the final installment of encore winners. Out March 10th!

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confectioner’s sugar and an assortment of Italian cookies in all varieties. And their retail side of the deli proves soul-feeding, offering pastas, olive oils, sauces and canned goodsof the finest Italian brand-names. But why try to reinvent the wheel? Just order from their catering menu and feed the family a true “taste of Italy”—then all that will be left to do are the dishes.

Other delicatessens in town that folks adore patronizing include Grouchos in Leland and Martions in Wrightsville Beach.

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Expanding the Market: Entertaining the prospect of a daily downtown market

D

riving down Market Street, toward Wilmington’s Historic District, downtown, locals and tourists alike will find a bounty of indulgences: from hot coffee and homemade ice cream at Bella’s, to fine exquisite dining in the snug sofa lounge of Caprice Bistro, to a relaxing horse carriage ride around town. Curiosity arises on how Market Street earned its name, leading to another subsequent question: Where’s the market?

On Water Street, from April to December, we have the Riverfront Farmer’s Market every Saturday— probably the best place to be during any warm weekend morning. Farmers truck in their produce, local artists set up their own handmade crafts and artwork, and the Wilmington community contributes even more to their local economy. Thus, some people want more from a “market”—something more frequent and flexible.

Cue: the Wilmington Public Market.

The motto behind the idea remains simple: Every city needs a market. While Wilmington’s Farmer’s Market fills a void somewhat, the idea of the Wilmington Public Market gives citizens a wide spectrum of vendors, selling everything from jewelry to art, baskets to knick-knacks, preserved jams to canned goods, every day of the week.

Upon approaching Second and Market, heading downtown, the market would be immediately visible, as it’s proposed to take up the median space between Front and 2nd streets. It would span two buildings, which would eliminate 10 parking spots and two turning lanes. However, this will supposedly create a calmer traffic flow and a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, according to Gordon Singletary, one of the organizers of the Wilmington Public Market. The Market

by: Christina Dore

WHAT COULD BE... This is one of many mock-ups of what could be the downtown Public Market, built in the median space on Market between Front and 2nd streets—available at www.wilmingtonpublicmarket.org.

will also be able to house 48 vendors, who will always be visible to any passersby.

An information meeting was held February 10th, presented by local businessmen, downtown citizens and organizers John Hinnant, Gordon Singletary, David Spetrino and Matt Scharf. They opened up a discussion on other city public markets, including Charleston, Seattle and even the small Carrboro market, and expressed the hopes of giving Wilmington something similar.

When asked, none of the four organizers claimed credit as inventor or leader of the Wilmington Public Market. Instead, the idea came to Gordon Singletary, who instantly

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began drawing plans and submitted it to the city, where it received remarkable support.

Now, these men are banding together to draw more people in and make the Wilmington Public Market a community creation. On the Facebook group alone, there are more than a 1,000 members and it’s continually growing. People are telling their friends and writing letters to the Star-News.

“I think it’s a great idea, and necessary for supporting local consumers, and keeping them healthy and away from mass-production,” local Terra Thompson says. “If they also wish to mimic what the market was, using a sort of historical approach, that could also become a tourism perk.”

Singletary and Spetrino explained after careful research that they predict the Wilmington Public Market will not only provide a more permanent structure, but will give Wilmington an estimated $500,000 impact on the local economy. With an excellent and diverse audience—downtown citizens, local businesspeople, farmers from the Riverfront Farmer’s Market, etc.—there was both excitement and disquiet over the idea.

Ron Koster, owner of Tarheel Beef Company and also a consistent vendor of the Riverfront Farmer’s Market, was one of the few very outspoken at the meeting. “At first, I was against this because I thought it was going to replace the Water Street market. I was like, ‘If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.’ The Riverfront Farmer’s Market started six years ago and has been doing great,” he says. “But I see

what they’re going for now, and I still think there are still going to be some problems and they need to address those soon.”

All four organizers made it clear that the Wilmington Public Market is not a replacement of the Riverfront Farmer’s Market. If anything, it is supposed to have a complementary purpose, where people can walk around downtown, arrive at the Wilmington Public Market and continue walking until they reach the market on Water Street.

“As someone who unloads hundreds of pounds of meat and produce from my truck, I cannot see the logistics of this structure,” Koster continues. “Farmers are not going to have any room to park their trucks and unpack all their crops and products. And with some people, they’re going to need a lot more room to set up all their stuff than what they’re proposing for this building.”

Luckily, the farmers are not losing their place on Water Street. And if they cannot be part of the Wilmington Public Market, they still have their spot and it makes room for artists and crafts people that do not require a large amount of space for their tables and booths.

“The location is tight. We recognize that,” Spetrino explains. “But we also recognize that the long-term success of this market requires it to be at the epicenter of the ‘fun zone’—it will never provide the same farreaching impact if it has to pull visitors. In an ideal business model, the most effective markets attract then push visitors to neighboring stores, events, restaurants, etc.”

Koster remains speculative but still hopeful of the prospect. “I feel what they’re doing now is very ambitious, and the main concerns I have is the possibility of this turning into a flea market.

Also. [I worry about] this building becom[ing] a hangout that is not cleaned and maintained. I’m not dead [set] against this at all. I just hope they sort out all the possible issues.”

However, the plans are premature. No construction blueprints have been made, and no votes have been cast. The Wilmington Public Market is just an idea right now—one that needs to spread and be understood by the Wilmington community.

“I was completely impressed with the meeting’s turnout—it was encouraging to see an informed and engaged community.

The next meeting is to the Vision 20/20 Committee on March 2nd and then to the Residents of Old Wilmington on March 10th,” Spetrino maps out.

To learn more about the Wilmington Public Market, visit www.wilmingtonpublicmarket.org, or go to the Facebook page where members can post their own comments.

d r i e w e h t f o s w e n Chuck Shepherd digs up the strangest of the strange in world news

LEAD STORY Pastor John Renken’s Xtreme Ministries of Memphis, Tenn., is one of a supposedly growing number of churches that use “mixed martial arts” events to recruit wayward young men to the Christian gospel. Typically, after leading his flock in solemn prayer to a loving God, Pastor Renken adjourns the session to the back room, where a New York Times reporter found him in February shouting encouragement to his violent parishioners: “Hard punches!” Renken yelled. “Finish the fight! To the head! To the head!” One participant told the Times that fight nights bring a greater masculinity to religion, which he said had, in recent years, gone soft.

Government in Action!

Over-Connecting the Dots: At age 8, Mike Hicks is a frequent air traveler with his mother, and while she is seldom noticed by airport screeners, “Mikey” almost always is because he shares a name with someone on the enhanced-security list that is one level below “no fly” (one of 1,600 such Michael Hickses in the U.S.). His mom told The New York Times in January that Mikey has been patted down by security since he was 2.

(But sometimes government under-connects the dots. Delaware pediatrician Earl Bradley’s January arrest and February indictment for allegedly sexually molesting 103 children came only after he was cleared in two police investigations in three years, involving eight complaints, and despite one ex-colleague’s routinely referring to Dr. Bradley as a “pedophile.”)

Better Late Than Never? (1) Ten days after Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab nearly brought down the Christmas Day airliner over Detroit, the State Department officially revoked his visa. (2) Eight days after the Christmas Eve demolition of Minneapolis’ historic Fjelde House (as a fire hazard), the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission awarded the site “interim protection” for its historic value.

Too Much Diversity: (1) In January, the U.S. Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division posted a job announcement supposedly in line with current affirmative-action policy.

The division is seeking “experienced attorneys” and was encouraging “qualified applicants with targeted disabilities” to apply.

Legally protected “targeted disabilities” include the traditional, such as blindness, but also “mental retardation.” (2) In February, aspirants for taxicab licenses in Portsmouth, England, were officially informed by the City Council that application forms are available in other languages or in “audio,” “large print” or “Braille.”

When “You Lie!” Doesn’t Quite Capture the Moment: Legislator Abel LeBlanc was suspended from Canada’s New Brunswick

Assembly in February for giving middle-finger salutes to two colleagues, calling one a “punk” and declaring himself ready to “walk outside with any one of yas here.” “Don’t ever laugh at me,” he continued. “Yes, I gave you that (the finger). And I’ll give you that again. And (to another colleague) I’ll give you this (finger) if you want to go outside.”

Great Art Just after Christmas, the Anglican Church of St. Peter in Great Limber, England, unveiled artist Adam Sheldon’s 6-foot-high representation of the crucifixion consisting of 153 pieces of toast. Sheldon browned the bread himself, then painstakingly either scraped (to lighten) or torched (to darken) each piece to fashion the tableau.

Police Report They Don’t Make Cops Like They Used To: Sheriff’s deputy John Franklin of San Luis Obispo, Calif., filed a lawsuit in December against the Catholic Church and former priest Geronimo Cuevas for the “emotional trauma” he suffered by being propositioned for sex while working undercover in 2007.

Deputy Franklin was patrolling a public park near Avila Beach when Father Cuevas reached out and touched Franklin’s clothed genital area. Cuevas was arrested and convicted, but Deputy Franklin said he is not yet over the feelings of “anger, rage, disgust and embarrassment.”

Chutzpah: Former Stoughton, Mass., police sergeant David Cohen was convicted in 2007 of attempted extortion and witnesstampering and sentenced to 30 months in jail. In November 2009, he filed a formal demand for payment of at least $113,000 he said the department owes him for unused vacation, sick leave and comp time. He also claims extra pay because, while still on the job, he had to spend 481 hours in court and 280 hours preparing in order to defend himself against the criminal charges.

Names in the News Arrested in January in Memphis, Tenn., and charged with having carnal knowledge of an underage girl: Mr. Knowledge Clark, 29. Arrested in January in Hellertown, Pa., and charged with cashing a stolen check: Richard Fluck, 47, and Bryan Flok, 47. Arrested in Denver in February and charged with using another person’s driver’s license as identification: Mr. Robin J. Hood, 34. Arrested in Kingston, Pa., in January and charged with cocaine trafficking: Carlos Laurel, 30, and Andre Hardy, 39. Arrested in February in DeFuniak Springs, Fla., and charged with possession of crystal meth: Crystal Beth Williams, 21.

Pervo-American Community Colt Heltsley, 20, had been spotted by police in 2008 at the Preble County (Ohio) Fair, “looking around, acting nervous” in the area of a row of portable toilets and in one 30-minute sequence continually moving empty toilets until they were close together.

He was eventually convicted of voyeurism, peeping at a female using the facility. In December 2009, a state appeals court rejected Heltsley’s defense that police had violated his right to privacy with their surveillance.

Now, Which One Is the Brake?

Elderly drivers’ recent lapses of concentration, accidentally confusing the brake pedal with the gas: An 89-year-old man crashed through the front of Sussex Eyecare opticians in Seaford, England (June). A driver “in her late 80s” crashed into the Buttonwood Bakery in Hanover Township, Pa. (September). An 86-year-old man crashed into the Country Boy Family Restaurant in Dunedin, Fla. (October). An 82-year-old man crashed into the Egypt Star Bakery in Whitehall Township, Pa. (November). A 78-year-old woman drove off of a 30-foot cliff (but the car’s plunge was halted when it lodged against a tree) near Hannibal, Mo. (August). A 92-year-old man crashed into the Biscuits ‘N’ Gravy and More restaurant in Port Orange, Fla. (January) (but was not deterred amidst the rubble he created, as he calmly went inside, sat down and ordered breakfast).

A News of the Weird Classic (March 1995) In August 1994, Sanford, Fla., judge Newman Brock picked up hair clippers and went to the local Seminole County Jail for his regular biweekly haircut from his longtime hairstylist, Rick Thrower, who was serving 45 days for DUI violations. Said Thrower, “(The judge is) a very loyal customer.”

Read News of the Weird daily at www.WeirdUniverse.net. Send your Weird News to WeirdNews@earthlink.net or P.O. Box 18737, Tampa Florida, 33679.

COLLEGE OF WILMINGTON 4348 Market Street 910-763-4418 www.CollegeOfWilmington.com

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Write On! Guerilla Theatre Presents: ‘Namaste, Indiana’ by: MJ Pendelton

Namasate, Indiana Brown Coat Pub and Theatre 111 Grace Street March 4-6 and 11-13, 8pm Tickets: (910) 341- 0001 ing, but his avocation has always been creative writing. In college, he wrote for the literary magazine and later studied with the Emory University writing program. He has written 18 film scripts and 12 or 13 plays. “Namaste, Indiana is also a film script,�

Grudzien said, “but I wanted to get it in front of an audience.�

G

uerilla Theatre supports local playwrights and, consequently, has established an important niche in the Wilmington theater community. Other theater companies, like Big Dawg, have produced original scripts, but Guerilla has devoted 40 percent of its productions to showcasing local writers. It has also made theater accessible to a younger audience with $5 student tickets. The transition from the Soapbox basement to the Brown Coat Pub and Theatre was not exactly smooth for the company, but the cozy, new venue is far more accommodating. Even in the uncomfortable, smelly basement, though, they had a loyal following.

Guerilla has always tried to financially compensate cast and crew, but, with their limited resources, it has been a challenge.

The company has never, however, sacrificed the quality of the productions. “We hold ourselves to a high standard,� said creative director Richard Davis. Because of this integrity, as well as their commitment to “push social issues and support emerging artists,� Guerilla has “attracted the attention of some important people,� according to Davis.

John Melfi is one of them. His brother, Leonard Melfi, was an important experimental American playwright and director in the Sixties. During his career, he wrote more than 40 plays including “Birdbath�, co-wrote the screenplay “Lady Liberty�,

FIRST LOOK: The cast of “Namaste, Indiana,� part of the Leonard Melfi’s play series produced by the Brown Coat Pub and Theater.

and contributed to the musical “Oh, Calcutta!� When Melfi died, Edward Albe sent a note, which was read at the memorial services: “Years ago, there were many serious and daring individuals in Greenwich Village under thirty as well as young playwrights, myself included. It was a wild and vital time, and no one was more vital than Leonard.�

Guerilla Theatre has been given permission to use his name. “All of our original plays will be produced under the banner of the Leonard Melfi First Look Play Series,�

Davis explained, adding, “We’re absolutely honored.� Even more exciting, Guerilla Theatre will produce three plays by Melfi, which have never been staged. An interesting aspect of the New Play Series is that the audience will be invited to give feedback, probably in the form of comment cards, essentially “participating in the creative process,� Davis said. Though, he quickly amended, “It will not be a workshop. Each play will be fully formed and professional.�

The first play in the series is “Namaste, Indiana� by John Grudzien. This will be Grudzien’s third play with Guerilla Theater, and he also wrote and produced six oneact plays at the Thalian Studio Theater, with UNCW students creating film backdrops.

Grudzien’s vocation is business/market-

The plot revolves around Korean War veteran Orville Powell, who is a “bohemian, an early hippie, changed by the war.

He moves to a small town in Indiana and opens a yoga studio, but no one gets it. [Ultimately] he changes the lives of some of the people in the town,� Grudzien explained. Though “Namaste, Indiana� is “as polished as any production, [he] wants audience feedback.� His fictional name for the Indiana town is a derivative of Sanskrit, and though it has various meanings, most Western yoga practitioners consider the translation to be “the light within me honors the light within you.� Randall Lucas, Suzanne Nystrom, and Janet Allen, who recently acted in Big Dawg’s “Love on the Rocks,�are the principals in this production. Don’t miss it!

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Holding on to Belief: Drive-By Truckers make it on relentless determination

I

t’s been a long time since the Clinton administration ruled the office. The world seemed simpler and safer then. The internet was new and exciting. MTV actually played music, and new bands did it the oldfashioned way through incessant touring, sleeping on couches, and begging anyone and everyone to listen. Today, there seem to be few bands left from that era who continue to evolve, persevere and carve their own path in such a relentless manner. Then again, there are few bands like the DriveBy Truckers.

Formed in the mid-to-late ‘90s in Athens, Georgia, while Bill was still president, the Truckers are an entity unlike any other. With a distinct Southern- and classic-rock sound, supported by a collective singing and songwriting core, the band has forged their way through an unforgiving industry by never giving up, never compromising and doing it themselves every step of the way. Founding member Mike Cooley says it was what he and fellow Trucker Patterson Hood wanted from the very beginning; although, no one ever said it was going to be easy.

“From the time we started this band, and started touring, there were plenty of times when it sucked,” Cooley reveals. “But I don’t think there was ever any time when everybody was throwing up their hands, because as tough as it got, there was always belief. And it wasn’t just a blind faith, pipe-dream either; it was there. We could see it happening, little by little. We just believed that it would come together, and turning back wasn’t really an option. We really wanted to see it through.”

And they have—through thousands of shows, significant line-up changes and several record labels. Although a lot has happened throughout the years, the one constant has been the music. It’s what Cooley and company do best, and it’s most certainly the common thread that has kept them striving and moving forward all this time, especially when it comes to the creative process itself.

“It’s kind of a happy place for us: going in to record a new record,” he says.

“The shows and touring are a lot of fun in their own way, but we get to the studio, and there’s nobody there but us. It feels good. We don’t have to pack up and move somewhere to the next place. We can do what we do for a while and work.”

The latest result is The Big To-Do. Slated for release on March 16th, it’s the band’s eighth studio album and first release with their new label, ATO Records. As always the prodigious Truckers approached this project like most of their previous: with plenty of material to choose from, provid-

by: Adrian Varnam

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ing the option of creating the best and most coherent album that they could at the time.

With longtime producer David Barbe at the helm once again, Cooley says it was a comfortable and familiar place for the band to bring as much as they could to the project.

“We actually went in and recorded somewhere in the neighborhood of 30 tracks over the course of all the sessions,” he says. “It started looking very obvious that there was this group of songs that was one album, and then we had all these others that all kind of fit together, too, in their own way. So we put those 13 tracks together and put it out first.

They’re more rock ‘n’ roll, [from] start to finish, than the last record, but they fit.”

Cooley reveals that, although he didn’t initially bring as much original material to the table as in previous records, the end product does showcase what has become a staple of recent Drive-By Truckers’ records: a fairly balanced contribution from several different songwriters within the band, including bassist and singer Shonna Tucker. Although Hood is seen by many to be the band’s leading songwriter in a lot of ways, Cooley has come into his own as an equal contributor and cohort.

As the two founding and original members of the band, it’s a relationship that’s been allowed to evolve many times throughout the years to get to that point.

“We just kind of figured out that there was this thing we could do together,” he says. “I mean, we had some rocky roads here and there, trying to figure out how to allow each other to be who we are individually and do what we do together, and let that be what it is. But you come through that or you figure it out. We just got older, really, and we don’t hang out together and drive each other crazy. We pretty much reserve it to doing what we do and being friends on a level where we can do all those things. And we are, at the end of the day, great friends.”

It’s that friendship, combined with hard work, determination and dedication, is what has kept Cooley, Hood and the Drive-By Truckers together after all these years. Long after most bands have packed it up and gone home, the Truckers continue to make great records, playing sold out shows to a rabid fanbase, attracting more listeners with every effort, and mak-

SOUTHERN-ROCK STALWARTS: Drive-By Truckers will play Wilmington for the first time in quite a few years, at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, this Friday night.

ing a living for themselves and their families, all on their own terms. Cooley says he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“For me, I don’t know how else you can do it and survive,” he says. “When you’re in your 20s and trying to get this thing going, and you have all this pressure to have something to show for yourself, and you get frustrated, and you’re wanting to make it, make it, make it—whatever that means— and all the frustrations and setbacks come along, and people just aren’t ‘gettin’ it’, you

Online now:

kind of take out your frustrations on each other. And then you get older and realize, ‘What the hell is ‘makin’ it,’ anyway?’ Let’s just do what we do. And we have, our own way. I mean, if I were a pretty face and a good dancer, I guess I would let somebody make a few more decisions for me. . . . But I’m neither.”

The Drive-By Truckers perform this Friday, March 5th, at the Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. Gates open at 5:30 and the show begins at 6pm, with opening act David Barbe and the Quick Hooks. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 the day of the show, and can be purchased from Gravity Records, Revolution 9,1067thepenguin. com, or from drivebytruckers.com.

PAPA JOHNS CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD NORTH KERR SPALON CUBBIE’S FAT TONY’S REEL CAFE REVOLUTION 9

FIBBER’S PUBLIC HOUSE BELLAMY MANSION EARTHBOUND SALON & SPA FIREBELLY LOUNGE more!

and

encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 23

A United Front:

Hammer No More the Fingers bring quirky to the stage

L

ess is more. Isn’t that how the clichĂŠ goes? Well, for Durham-based indie band Hammer No More the Fingers (HNMTF), it’s an operational motto. Only three members deep, this energetic punkemo-pop-rock collection has a surprisingly full sound. It’s like The Click Five meets Foo Fighters meets Modest Mouse—if they’ve been eating a batch of “specialâ€? brownies and reading poetry. Sort of.

With influences like Burning Airlines and Tom Petty, HNMTF’s songs would certainly be at home on local college stations, or classic road-trip mixes that we listen to with our windows down when we need to remember what it’s like to be young and free of obligations. Their beats are infectious and addicting, and the fullness of three vocalists infuses each song with a richness we wouldn’t expect from so few band members.

Joe, Jeff and Duncan, the three young Durhamites who make up HNMTF, have been in cohort since the ripe old age of 5, with Duncan joining the mix at age 13.

Having played in a series of bands together, they decided to try things for real after graduating from college. Since, their progress has been slow and steady, tortoisestyle, resulting in an EP released in 2007, a full-length, Looking for Bruce, in 2009, as well as embarking on 100s of gigs, and even a tour in the UK. “It’s really great to have international support like that,� guitarist Joe Hall told encore about their recent overseas tour. “They were all so welcoming, we had a great time.�

Having such an extensive history together definitely helps the guys when it comes

by: Sarah Boggs

Hammer No More the Fingers Also featuring Demon Beat and The Spalding Grays March 5th • $5 Soapbox Laundro Lounge 255 N. Front Street

to writing music. “We all write together.

One of us starts off with a beat or a few chords, and we just build on it until we come up with something,� Hall said. “It’s gotten to the point now where we pretty much know exactly where to go with a song. We tweak it until we like it, Duncan adds the lyrics, and we play it until we know whether or not it’ll really work for us.�

And it does work.

The song “Nobody Knows� is so enlivening it almost could make a listener want to burst out of her skin. “Radiation� is another winner, catchy and fun with some seriously heartfelt lyrics. “Duncan wrote ‘Radiation’ after reading a story about a girl who rode her motorbike through the Chernobyl site,� Hall revealed. “That’s how he usually works; he’ll read something interesting and just set it to music in his head I guess.�

As with any other up-and-coming band, HNMTF still has trouble getting exposure. “I’d say our biggest challenge is getting out there, booking shows, getting the attention we want,� Hall admitted. “Writing and

WWW ENCOREPUB COM

24 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

BROKEN ENGLISH: With a name deriving inspiration from a broken-English Chinese instruction manual, Hammer No More the Fingers come to Soapbox on Friday with Demon Beat and The Spalding Grays.

performing: That’s the easy part. It’s the promoting that’s tough, the business side.

Forward motion is an every day goal.�

Hall said that goals are one of the many commonalities the guys have to unite them. “We have the same frame of mind, we want the same things. We spend a lot of time together, so the tension is definitely a factor, but all in all we’re great friends.

It just so happens that we’re in business together.�

And for HNMTF, business is good. “Of course, we love to perform, but we

also really enjoy recording,� Hall said. “The pressure is a lot different when money is on the line, but we go in there as prepared as we can be and just get it done.�

This three-man ensemble is recording its next album next week in Baltimore, and is hoping for a release date some time this fall. “No promises,� Hall added, “the business is so unpredictable, but that’s what we’re hoping for.

Hammer No More the Fingers—a name inspired by Duncan’s grandfather, who “brought back this nail hammering guide thing from China, [with] instructions in broken English [reading] ‘hammer no more the fingers’—will be playing their own brand of quirky and unique sounds this Friday, March 5th, at The Soapbox at 10pm. Tickets are $5 at the door; doors open at 9pm.

Tunes, Man!

UNCW’s Hawkstream Radio presents B-Side Breakdown at the Soapbox

O

n days when the weather is pleasant, songs of all different rhythms and sounds can be heard throughout the Campus Commons at UNCW. Students can be seen walking to class, bumping to the beat or eating on outside benches, mouthing the lyrics to the songs. The source behind the music and what is called “Campus Live” is Hawkstream Radio, the official student radio station of UNCW, providing its streaming database of news, entertainment and educational programs through the Web: http://hawkstreamradio.wordpress.com.

Hawkstream Radio is a distinct part of UNCW’s Student Media, run by the students themselves. Although Hawkstream’s founding history goes back years before, the station has only been in existence for two years, and the product produced only since November of 2009. Now, sophomore Jon Chittendon, the station manager and music liaison, heads the station, its streaming schedule and oversees changes to the Hawkstream’s Web site—its sole method of reaching listeners.

Currently, the site is launching a new layout, one which executive board member Taylor Herbert is designing. This fresh and innovative layout will feature multimedia effects, such as live video stream, pictures and bios of the DJ’s, and allow viewers to actually see into the Hawkstream’s office while recording.

In an interview within the station’s office, the origin to the mania occurs, Jon Chittendon lays down the foundations of Hawkstream and its plans for the future: encore: Is the Hawkstream Radio currently working on a convergence with the rest of student media, such as The Seahawk and Teal TV? Jon Chittendon: Not just student media but the UNCW community and town, as well: local bands, media and literary services, downtown venues—we are open to all of it. We run The Soapbox’s schedules every week, and in

Hampstead Arts Memberships • Classes

by: Lisa Hunyh

e: How is Hawkstream spreading awareness about the station?

JC: We find people through word of mouth, we have been advertising as of now, and [we] have a Facebook page.

B-Side Breakdown Also featuring, The Crunch and Keaton Lange, presented by Hawkstream Radio March 4th • $1-$3 http://hawkstreamradio.wordpress.com

e: What do you want your listeners to take away from Hawkstream?

JC: Our main goal is music. We want to be a reliable source of cool music for students, by students. If we had a mission statement, it would be: “Tunes, man!” I mean, this is for the students. This is their station. We want them to put something on it.

There are time slots open, and there are always possibilities to be an artist liaison.

return our music liaisons actually go to their shows, interview artists there and then talk about it later in Hawkstream’s talk shows. e: What is Hawkstream focusing on doing for this school year and the next?

JC: Our primary focus is developing our product and making it more listener-friendly: all live, hopefully call-ins, and Campus Live a couple times a week. Since we are an oncampus radio station, we don’t have to target ourselves to an indie-rock, punk music, or whatever. Our common theme is that it is music from fellow students—you aren’t listening to a company playlist. We try to make it make sense, too. We don’t put techno shows at 10 in the morning.

have 40 members. What is cool about being an executive is that you can still come and have an hour show.

Hawkstream Radio will be hosting a show at the Soapbox on Thursday, March 4th at 9:30pm, opening with the acoustic band Keaton Lange, The Crunch at 10pm, and B Side Breakdown plays at 11pm.

Doors open at 9pm, and DJ FTA will also be featuring music late night.!

e: Explain the regular talk shows that go live on the station.

JC: The main talk show is “Overtime Blitz,” which has three people in all. The “The Big D Comedy Show” is on Thursdays, and the “Inferno News Rave” talks about the news and current events, then plays rave music for Friday nights. We can break the norms as a campus radio station. I even have an idea where one night we try to do all theme songs, (starts singing the “Doug” theme song from Nickelodeon). e: How many DJs do you have currently?

JC: Thirty DJs; with all the staff—from management to promotion to music combined (including the DJs and executives)—we

New Clas

s! parent & child

handbuilding & sculpture

Sat. mornings 11am-1pm

aFter schOOl actiVities COLLAGE MAKING

EASTER EGG - pictures with various paper decorations.

TRAVAGANZA, KIDS ON WHEELS March 27, Wednesday 3:30-5pm Easter egg dying pOtterY With anne & Wednesday Nights 6-8pm decorating Party. studiO tiMe 11am-1pm Tue. Nights, 6-8p & Sat. Mornings10am-1pm

Visit cwilmington.com for Class Schedules!

14663 Hwy. 17 North (at the intersection of Hwy. 210 & Hwy.17)

OPEN: Tues.-Fri., 10am-4pm,Sat. 10am-1pm • 910-270-3003

encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 25

soundboard

a preview of tunes all over town this week

KaraoKe with DJ Urban —Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market Street; 251-1301 KaraoKe with bob Clayton —Midtown Seafood, 4106 Oleander Drive; 792-6880 DJ P. FUnK —Fibber McGee’s, 1610 Pavilion Pl; 509-1551 FlUte oF the ConDors, the haPPy haPPy tranCe DanCe banD —The Whiskey, 1 South Front Street; 763-3088 tyler MCKaig —16 Taps, 127 Princess Street; 251-1616 DJ JUiCe —The Rhino Club, 125 Market Street; 762-2206 oPen MiC night —Juggling Gypsy Cafe, 1612 Castle Street; 763-2223

eriC anD Carey b. —El Zarrape Cantina, 103 Lake Park Blvd.; 458-5255 DJbe eXtreMe KaraoKe —Wild Wing Cafe, 1331 Military Cutoff Road; 256-3838 the PaUl griMshaw trio —Dead Dog Saloon, 760 Coastal Grand, Myrtle Beach, SC; 843-839-3647 KaraoKe w/ DJ biKer rob —Katy’s, 1054 South College Road; 395-6204 the living Daylights —Liquid Room, 23 Market St.; 910-343-334 oPen MiC night with gary allen —Rusty Nail, 1310 South 5th Avenue; 251-1888 DJ JePh CaUlter —Carolina Lounge, 5001A Market Street; 791-7595 Piano show —Rum Runners, 21 North Front Street; 815-3846

Perry sMith —Bottega Gallery, 208 North Front Street; 763-3737

ThUrSDAY, MArch 4

CoUrtesy oF artist COURTESY OF ARTIST

WEDNESDAY, MArch 3

TrAVIS ShALLOW is playing at Wrightsville Grille this coming Tuesday night, March 9th. Check him out first at www.myspace.com/travisshallow.

GRAND UNION PUB 1125 Military Cutoff Road (910) 256-9133

117 Grace St. Downtown 910-763-3456

wed 3.3

dj be karaoke thurs 3.4

team trivia plus

dj richtermeister fri 3.5

jason marks sat 3.6

live music with

brent cates band

Photo...

Scott Sain of Plane jane

,ANDFALL #ENTER s 1331 Military Cutoff Rd

910-256-3838 wildwingcafe.com

26 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

Downtown Wilmington’s Authentic Hookah Spot

LIVE BELLY DANCING Every Friday and Saturday 10pm - 12am

All-natural homemade fruit tobacco TRY ONE OF OUR SIGNATURE MIXES www.arabiannightshookahcafe.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS

NUTT HOUSE IMPROV

$5 COVER $1 FRONT STREET BREWERY BEERS!

THURSDAYS

NUTT STREET OPEN MIC ALL SHOWS 8:00 DOORS 9:00 SHOW CALL 251-7881 FOR MORE INFO

46/%": 25 oz. draft mugs $5 12.50 pitchers • $5 wings .0/%": $ domestic btls • fish & chip special 56&4%": $3 english beers shepherd’s pie, banger & mash special 8&%/&4%": $3 guinness, $4 irish car bombs turkey or corned beef reuben special 5)634%": $3 pints • $1.50 burger sliders '3*%": $2.50 mexican beers, $3 margaritas $5 nachos and quesadilla special 4"563%": $3 well drinks, $4 bombs, $15 domestic buckets -*7& .64*$ '3* 4"5 3-5 BiBis/ 3-6 Jam sandwich 3-12 Blivet/ 3-13 Fred Flynn & the stones/ 3-17 st. patrick’s day party irish music in the afternoon, Jeremy norris @ 10:30/ 3-19 BigFoot 3-20 Jeremy norris & Friends 3-26 on disc play/ 3-27 travis shallow & Band March 14 @ grand union pub Surfer’S healing fundraiSer

DJ stretCh —Trebenzio’s, 141 North Front Street; 815-3301 DJ “Mr lee� —Carolina Lounge, 5001A Market Street; 791-7595 KaraoKe —Yosake Sushi Lounge, 31 South Front Street; 763-3172 KaraoKe Kong —Orton Pool Room, 133 North Front Street; 343-8878 Fire & DrUM JaM, DJ Mit, PsytranCe —Juggling Gypsy Cafe, 1612 Castle Street; 763-2223

Feature your live music and drink specials!

It’s a low-cost high-impact way to send encore readers your way!

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KaraoKe w/ DJ Steve —The Toolbox, 2325 Burnette Blvd.; 343-6988 KaraoKe w/ BoB Clayton —Midtown Seafood, 4106 Oleander Drive; 792-6880 DJ Don’t Stop —Slick and Reds, 2501 South College Road; 798-5355 GuitariSt perry Smith —Caffe Phoenix, 9 S Front Street; 343-1395 DJ CompoSe —Port City Pub, 121 Grace Street; 251-3791 BiBiS anD BlaCK —Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess Street; 362-9666 hip-hop niGht —Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market Street; 251-1301 aDult Situation —Rucker John’s, 5564 Carolina Beach Road; 452-1212 GoGGlez pizano —Dead Dog Saloon, 760 Coastal Grand, Myrtle Beach, SC; 843-839-3647 DJ riChtermeiSter —Wild Wing Cafe, 1331 Military Cutoff Road; 256-3838

ClaSSy KaraoKe with manDy Clayton —Remedies, Market Street; 392-8001 DJ CeD —The Rhino Club, 125 Market Street; 762-2206 tom rhoDeS —Front Street Brewery, 9 North Front Street; 251-1935 Family KaraoKe —Alfie’s, 2528 Castle Hayne Road; 251-5707 Benny hill —Firebelly Lounge, 265 North Front Street; 763-0141

friDAY, mArch 5 FriDay niGht FollieS —Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market Street; 251-1301 DJ CeD —The Rhino Club, 125 Market Street; 762-2206 DJ —Level 5/City Stage, 21 North Front Street; 342-0872 BiBiS —Grand Union Pub, 1125 Military Cutoff; 910-256-9133

JUNCTION PUB AND BILLIARDS 5216 Carolina Beach Road MONDAY MADNESS: Domestic Pints: $225 Well Vodka Drinks: $350 FREE POOL AFTER MIDNIGHT TASTY TUESDAYS: CALL NIGHT All call liquors: $400 Drinks or Shots WET WEDNESDAYS: Smirnoff Flavor Liquors $400 Drinks or Shots LATE NIGHT!!!

Domestic Light Beer $225

(Bud Light, Miller Light, Natural, Coors Light)

THIRSTY THURSDAYS: 22 Oz. Domestic Beers $400 FINALLY FRIDAYS: Cream Drinks $450 Blue Moon Draft $325 SATURDAYS: Corona & Corona Lts $250 Cuervo Silver Shots $300 Dox Equix Draft $300 POOL HAPPY HOURS 3pm-6pm $5 per player SUNDAYS: Service Employees Night Jager Shots $325 Jager Bombs $425 Coors Light Bottles $225 FREE POOL AFTER 10pm Every Mon-Wed-Fri Happy Hour Pool!

FREE POOL from 3-5pm!

Every Saturday, Sunday and Monday $3.50 25oz. Draft Special .0/%": 5.99 Cheeseburger & Fries All Day

$

56&4%": Double Lunch Punch from 11am - 3pm 8&%/&4%": 10 Boneless Wings & Domestic Draft for $ 5.99 All Day or 10 Boneless Wings, Curly Fries & Dressing for $ 5.99 All Day 5)634%": $2.50 Wells

5112 Market Street (910) 791-0799

melvin anD Sayer —El Zarrape Cantina, 103 Lake Park Blvd.; 458-5255 hip-hop DJ —Red Dogs, 5 North Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach; 256-2776 DJ mitCh —Odessa, 23 North Front Street; 251-8814 DJ SCooter FreSh —Rox, 208 Market Street; 343-0402 Guitar Jam SeSSion —The Smudged Pot, 5032 Wrightsville Avenue; 452-2920 KaraoKe w/ BoB Clayton —Midtown Seafood, 4106 Oleander Drive; 792-6880 DJ —Yosake Sushi Lounge, 31 South Front Street; 763-3172 DJ —The Sandbar, 417 South College Road; 791-6080 KaraoKe KonG —Slick and Reds, 2501 South College Road; 798-5355 piano Show —Rum Runners, 21 North Front Street; 815-3846

Tuesday & Wednesday Martini Madness $2 Martinis Music by DJ TiMe Thursday ILM Electrotheque $2 Shots Music by GUeiCe & DST Friday & Saturday Discotheque $4 infused Vodkas Music by DJ DUSTiN CooK Sunday Open Mic $3 Drafts MUSiC BY YoU (instruments provided) 23 N. FroNt St. DowNtowN wilmiNgtoN

ten Feet thiCK —Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market Street; 689-7219 Daniel pariSh —Firebelly Lounge, 265 North Front Street; 763-0141 hammer no more the FinGerS, Demon Beat, the SpalDinG GrayS —Soapbox Lounge, 255 North Front Street; 251-8500 tim BlaCK FeaturinG Carrie anDrewS —Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess Street; 362-9666 FrontierS —Soapbox Upstairs, 255 North Front Street; 251-8500 Steve martinez & the Give thanKS BanD, Donavan CarleSS, tony DreaD —Lucky’s, 2505 South College Road; 792-1812 painteD man —Dead Dog Saloon, 760 Coastal Grand, Myrtle Beach, SC; 843-839-3647 KaraoKe w/ DJ val —Katy’s, 1054 South College Road; 395-6204

1/2 priced select apppetizers m-f 4-7pm MONDAY $10 Bud/Light Buckets $4 Jack Daniels • $3 Capt. Morgan TUESDAY $1 Tacos 4-7pm • $3 sauza $15 margarita pitchers $3 Mexican Beers $5 Top Shelf Tequila • $7 Patron WEDNESDAY $3 Pints (10 Drafts) $5 Jager Bombs • $2 wells THURSDAY Mug Night $2 Domestic Drafts w/HK MUG $5 Bombers • $4 Jim Beam $3 pinnacle flavored vodkas $3.50 MicroBrews FRIDAY $3 Select Draft $4 Fire Fly Shooters $5 Red Bull Vodka SATURDAY $2.50 Miller Lt or Yuengling Draft $8 Pitcher • $3 Kamikaze $4 Well Drinks SUNDAY $2.50 Bud/Light Draft $8 Pitcher • $5 Crown Royal $4 Bloody Mary

CATCH ALL THE ACTION WITH NFL SUNDAY TICKET ON 10 HDTVs and HD big screen Your Team - Every Game, Every Week 118 Princess St • (910)763-4133

roBBie Berry —Southpaw Sports Bar, 123 Princess Street;338-1886 latino niGht with DJ —Carolina Lounge, 5001A Market Street; 791-7595 DJ StretCh —Trebenzio’s, 141 North Front Street; 815-3301 DJ time —Fibber McGee’s, 1610 Pavilion Pl; 509-1551 ten Below —Kefi, 2012 Eastwood Road; 256-3558

SAturDAY, mArch 6 KaraoKe w/ BoB Clayton —Midtown Seafood, 4106 Oleander Drive; 792-6880 DJ StretCh; live Jam with Benny hill —Trebenzio’s, 141 North Front Street; 815-3301 hip-hop DJ —Red Dogs, 5 North Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach; 256-2776 DJ —Ronnie’s Place, 6745-B Market Street; 228-8056

A SAmpling of SpECiAlS noW AVAilABlE AT BoTH loCATionS! SundAy Any pitcher and a large pizza $20

DJ eDie —Odessa, 23 North Front Street; 251-8814 Jam SanDwiCh —Grand Union Pub, 1125 Military Cutoff; 910-256-9133 GuitariSt perry Smith —Caffe Phoenix, 9 S Front Street; 343-1395 will revo —Francesco’s, 839 South Kerr Avenue; 793-5656 BlueS Jam —Rusty Nail, 1310 South 5th Avenue; 251-1888 DJ SCooter FreSh —The Rhino Club, 125 Market Street; 762-2206 BenJy templeton —Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess Street; 362-9666 DJ p. money —Rox, 208 Market Street; 343-0402 ClaSSy KaraoKe with manDy Clayton —Remedies, Market Street; 392-8001 piano Show —Rum Runners, 21 North Front Street; 815-3846

visit our website www.ruckerJohns.com for daily specials, music and upcoming events monday All Pizzas $5 in the bar after 5pm 22oz Domestic Draft $200

mondAy All craft beer pints $3

tuesday Live Jazz in the Bar Half Price Bottles of Wine Absolut Dream $5 22oz Yendgling Draft $2 Pacifico $2.50

TuESdAy Two for Tuesday Two slices and any pint for $7.00.

wednesday Corona\Corona Light $250 Margarita\Peach Margaritas $4 10 oz domestic draft $1

WEdnESdAy pint of the week: $2.50 THurSdAy All-you-can-eat pizza buffet for only $6.

Two Wilmington locations near unCW 250 racine drive • 910-452-9000 downtown 131 n. front St • 910-343-8881

See all the specials at www.fatpub.com

thursday Gran Martinis $7 • Red Stripe $250 friday Cosmos $4 • 007 $350 Harps bottles $250 saturday Baybreeze\Seabreeze $4 22oz Blue Moon Draft $3 Select domestic bottles $150 sunday Domestic Draft Pints $150 Bloody Marys $4 White Russians $4 5564 Carolina Beach Rd 452-1212

encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 27

asg, monkeyknifefight —Soapbox Upstairs, 255 North Front Street; 251-8500 karaoke w/ DJ Val —Katy’s, 1054 South College Road; 395-6204 iamhuman —Yosake Sushi Lounge, 31 South Front Street; 763-3172 DJ —Level 5/City Stage, 21 North Front Street; 342-0872

DJ foxxy —Ibiza, 118 Market Street; 251-1301 BeaCh & shag night —Carolina Lounge, 5001A Market Street; 791-7595 roBBie Berry —Smileys Tavern, 723 North 4th Street; 399-1669 massiVe grass —Lucky’s, 2505 South College Road; 792-1812

sundaY, maRch 7

Courtesy of artist

froosh trio —Firebelly Lounge, 265 North Front Street; 763-0141 talkin’ ugly ilitary Cutoff; —Bottega Gallery, 208 North Front Street; 763-3737 Beat transformers —Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market Street; 689-7219 Brent Cates err Avenue; —Wild Wing Cafe, 1331 Military Cutoff Road; 256-3838

ROBBIE BERRY plays every Friday at The Southpaw Sports Bar and Saturday at Smiley’s Tavern! Be sure to check him out!

100 S. Front St. Downtown 251-1832

RACK ‘EM PUB WEDNESDAY

5 covEr

$

pENNY fibbErS golDEN lAgEr 50¢ YuENgliNg 1 guiNNESS

$

3 Soco AND limES

$

3 roYAl fluSh

$

Dj pfuNk

Call to hear our daily specials DBMM UP QMBO ZPVS GSFF QSJWBUF QBSUZ UPEBZ 1610 Pavilion Place 910.256-0102

415 South College Road MONDAY MADNESS: Domestic Pints: $225 Miller Light, Yuengling: $350 Well Vodka Drinks: $350 FREE POOL AFTER MIDNIGHT TASTY TUESDAYS: CALL NIGHT All call liquors: $400 WET WEDNESDAYS: Smirnoff Flavor Liquors $400 Drinks LATE NIGHT!!!

Domestic Light Beer $225 (Bud Light, Miller Light, Natural, Coors Light)

THIRSTY THURSDAYS: Import Beers $300 (Red Stripe, Heineken, New Castle)

FINALLY FRIDAYS: Cream Drinks $450 Blue Moon Draft $325 SATURDAYS: Corona $250 Cuervo Silver Shots $300 POOL HAPPY HOURS 3pm-6pm $5 per player SUNDAYS: Service Employees Night Bloody Marys $300 Jager Shots $325 Jager Bombs $425 Coors Light Bottles $225 FREE POOL AFTER 10pm

28 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

Jam with Benny hill — Rusty Nail, 1310 South 5th Avenue; 251-1888 DJ Big kahuna — The Sandbar, 417 South College Road; 791-6080 DJ P. money — Rox, 208 Market Street; 343-0402 flutist nikki wisnioski — Caffe Phoenix, 9 S Front Street; 343-1395 DJBe extreme karaoke — The Whiskey, 1 South Front Street; 763-3088 DJ Big kahuna — Rum Runners, 21 North Front Street; 815-3846 sunDay night feVer — Ibiza, 118 Market Street; 251-1301 galen on guitar (BrunCh) — Courtyard Marriott, 100 Charlotte Avenue, Carolina Beach; (800) 321-2211 DJ CeD — The Rhino Club, 125 Market Street; 762-2206 Dale “fully automatiC sounD maChine” DJs — Bottega Gallery, 208 North Front Street; 763-3737

.0/%":

Weekly SpecialS

.0/%": $2.50 Budweiser Draft $4.00 Well Liquor FROM 4 UNTIL CLOSE $.50 Wings Buffalo, BBQ, or Teriyaki 56&4%": $2.50 Miller Lite Draft, $4.00 Hurricanes FROM 4 UNTIL CLOSE $6 Buffalo Shrimp or Chicken Tenders 8&%/&4%": $2.50 Yuengling Draft, $2.50 Domestic Bottles FROM 4 UNTIL CLOSE $2 Sliders 5)634%": $3.00 Coronas, $4.00 Margaritas FROM 4 UNTIL CLOSE $5 Cajun Shrimp or Fish Tacos '3*%": $3.00 Select Pint 4"563%": $5.50 Cosmos, Dirty Martinis or Apple Martinis 46/%": $5 Bloody Marys Half Priced Appetizers After 9:00 p.m.

Monday through Saturday.

ntranze — Dead Dog Saloon, 760 Coastal Grand, Myrtle Beach, SC; 843-839-3647

mOndaY, maRch 8 oPen miC night —Port City Pub, 121 Grace Street; 251-3791 DJ P. funk —The Sandbar, 417 South College Road; 791-6080 oPen miC with Beau —16 Taps, 127 Princess Street; 251-1616 george DaVis trio —Dead Dog Saloon, 760 Coastal Grand, Myrtle Beach, SC; 843-839-3647 oPen miC with ViVa —El Zarrape Cantina, 103 Lake Park Blvd.; 458-5255 DJ riChtermeister —Wild Wing Cafe, 1331 Military Cutoff Road; 256-3838 karaoke —Level 5/City Stage, 21 North Front Street; 342-0872 Paul grimshaw —Dead Dog Saloon, 760 Coastal Grand, Myrtle Beach, SC; 843-839-3647

(attached to the Ramada Inn)

910-791-7595

$2 Budweiser $2.25 Heineken $3 Gin & Tonic

SHAG LESSONS

$5 Sausage and Kraut 56&4%":

1/2 PRICE APPS. 4-6PM $2 White Wolf $2.50 Redstripe $3.50 Wells 35¢ Wings at 8pm 8&%/&4%":

1/2 PRICE APPS. 4-6PM $2.50 Blue Moons • $2.50 Corona/Corona Light 1/2 Priced Wine Bottles 5)634%": $2 Domestic Bottles,

TUESDAYS

LIVE MUSIC

@7:30 with Brad & Dancing with

GABBY’S LOUNGE

DJ “Mr Lee” $2 DOMEStic BOttLES THURSDAY LADiES NiGHt 1/2 PricE wiNE & $5 MArtiNi LiSt Line Dancing lessons with DJ “Mr Lee” and instructor Barbara Braak 7:30 FRIDAYS ArGENtiNE tANGO LESSONS WITH INSTRUCTION at 7:30 and

SALSA LESSONS at 9:30 with live DJ

$2.75 Import Bottles, $3 Rum and Coke

$2 Tequilla - $3 Corona - $4 Margarita’s

'3*%":

SATURDAY BEAcH & SHAG NiGHt, 8:00 BESt iN BEAcH & SHAG MuSic & DANciNG

LIVE MUSIC IN THE COURTYARD $3 Landshark • $3 Kamikaze • $5 Bombs 4"563%":

LIVE MUSIC IN THE COURTYARD Rooftop open by 6pm Dance floor open by 10pm 46/%": $5 Tommy Bahama Mojitos $2.75 Corona $3.50 Bloody Mary’s • $3 Mimosas

DJ DouBleCliCk —The Sandbar, 417 South College Road; 791-6080 karaoke —Yosake Sushi Lounge, 31 South Front Street; 763-3172 Dane Britt karaoke —Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market Street; 689-7219 DJ “mr lee” —Carolina Lounge, 5001A Market Street; 791-7595 karaoke with DJ Biker roB —Katy’s, 1054 South College Road; 395-6204 raDio hayes anD eChoPoint21 —Goat and Compass, 710 North 4th Street; 772-1400 liVe aCoustiC —Wild Wing Cafe, 1331 Military Cutoff Road; 256-3838 CaPe fear Blues Jam —Rusty Nail, 1310 South 5th Avenue; 251-1888 Classy karaoke with manDy Clayton —Ultra Classics Pool and Bar, North Hampstead

5001 Market Street

1/2 PRICE APPS. 4-6PM

$4 Tailgate Burgers $4 BBQ Plate

tuEsdaY, maRch 9

March 21st

BAND Of Oz 4-8pm

Private Parties are available for booking 791-7595

Fri., March 5

big8-11PM FiSh Sat., March 6

Mike o’Donnell 8-11PM Fri., March 12

overtyMe 8-11PM Sat., March 13

john MeilcarSki 8-11PM 877-330-5050 910-256-2231 wrightsville.sunspreeresorts.com

KaraoKe WitH BoB clayton —Midtown Seafood, 4106 Oleander Drive; 792-6880 KaraoKe KonG —16 Taps, 127 Princess Street; 251-1616 traviS SHalloW —Wrightsville Grille, 6766 Wrightsville Avenue; 509-9839 Benny Hill —Rucker John’s, 5564 Carolina Beach Road; 452-1212

WEDNESDAy, MARCH 10 DJ P. FunK —Fibber McGee’s, 1610 Pavilion Pl; 509-1551 tHe StranGerS, MonKey Junction reunion SHoW —Liquid Room, 23 Market St.; 910343-334 oPen Mic niGHt —Juggling Gypsy Cafe, 1612 Castle Street; 763-2223 roGer DaviS, ron WilSon —Bottega Gallery, 208 North Front Street; 763-3737 KaraoKe WitH DJ urBan —Ibiza, 118 Market Street; 251-1301

KaraoKe WitH BoB clayton —Midtown Seafood, 4106 Oleander Drive; 792-6880 oPen Mic niGHt WitH Gary allen —Rusty Nail, 1310 South 5th Avenue; 251-1888 KaraoKe W/ DJ BiKer roB

—Katy’s, 1054 South College Road; 395-6204 DJBe eXtreMe KaraoKe —Wild Wing Cafe, 1331 Military Cutoff Road; 256-3838 Piano SHoW —Rum Runners, 21 North Front Street;

815-3846 DJ JePH caulter —Carolina Lounge, 5001A Market Street; 791-7595 DJ Juice —The Rhino Club, 125 Market Street; 762-2206

eric anD carey B. —El Zarrape Cantina, 103 Lake Park Blvd.; 458-5255 cHeaP GirlS, tHe SloW DeatH, PinK FlaG —Soapbox Lounge, 255 North Front Street; 251-8500

All entertainment must be turned in to encore by noon every Thursday for consideration in the weekly entertainment calendar.

Venues are responsible for notifying encore of any changes, removals or additions to their weekly schedules.

Show Stoppers: Concerts around the region

Person L, Deas Vail 3/5: Bowling For Soup, The Dollyrots 3/6: Avi Buffalo 3/10: The Trails 3/10: Old 86

AMOS’ SOUTHEND 1423 SoutH tryon St., cHarlotte • 704-377-6874 3/4: Bowling for Soup (right), the Dollyrots 3/5: Jackyl, Swamp the Wamp 3/6: ten, Bleed the Freak, Badmotorfinger 3/7: Dri, Final curse

HOUSE OF BLUES 4640 HWy 17 S., Myrtle BeacH, Sc 843-272-3000 3/7: Gospel Brunch 3/12: REO Speedwagon 3/13: Ben Folds THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BiltMore avenue, aSHeville 828-225-5851 3/4: cross canadian ragweed 3/5: Keller Williams 3/6: Henry rollins 3/9: they Might Be Giants, Jonathan coulton 3/10: Robert Earl Keen, Paco Shipp

LINCOLN THEATRE 126 e. caBarruS St., raleiGH 919-821-4111 3/4: Keller Williams 3/5: The Chairmen of the Board, The Executives 3/6: The Coastal Cohorts 3/7: Cross Canadian Ragweed, Reckless Kelly

ALABAMA THEATRE 4750 HWy 17 SoutH, n. Myrtle BeacH, Sc 843-272-1111 3/6: Oak Ridge Boys

CAROLINA THEATRE 309 W. MorGan St., DurHaM 919-560-3030 3/3: Chrisette Michele 3/10: Train

CAT’S CRADLE 300 e. Main St., carrBoro 919-967-9053 3/3: Copeland, I Can Make A Mess Like Nobody’s Business,

N. CHARLESTON COLSIUM 5001 coliSeuM Dr., cHarleSton, Sc 843-529-5000 3/6: Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert, Justin Moore

! n w o t n i Best GE

h

Tuesdays 1/2 lb. cheese burger & fries $5.99 All pints $2.50

ELL

OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER

Serving “Private Reserve” steaks starting at $1399

ki

sorts.com

steaks

wings

ribs

salads

In the Cotton Exchange Downtown Wilmington

762-4354 FREE PARKING www.paddyshollow.com encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 29

FRIDAY, MARCH 12

REO SPEEDWAGON

Cucalorus holds fund-raiser at Screen Gems

w/EDWIN McCAIN (ADV) 34.00 / (DOS) 37.00 $

$

SATURDAY, MARCH 13

BEN FOLDS and A Piano

(ADV) $ 21.00 / (DOS) $ 24.00

FRIDAY, MARCH 19

GEORGE THOROGOOD AND THE DESTROYERS W/DAMON FOWLER

(ADV) $ 21.00 / (DOS) $ 24.00

61$0.*/( 4)084 03/20

BADFISH w/ Scotty Don’t & Full Service

04/23

TRACE ATKINS

04/02

DANNY GOKEY

04/24

DELBERT McCLINTON w/ Jim

04/03

CHAIRMEN OF THE BOARD

Quick and the Coastline Band

04/09

STYX

04/27

BEN HARPER and the Relentless 7

04/10

DARIUS RUCKER

04/16

GEORGE CLINTON and Parlament Funkadelic

05/04

HIM plus Special Guests

We Are The Fallen, Dommin & Drive A

FOR TICKETS: Livenation.com or Charge By Phone 877-598-8698

30 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

An Evening at the Oscars:

O

scar season is once again upon us. The flashing lights, the red carpet, and the fabulous fashions.

And it’s not only relegated to the West Coast come Sunday, March 7th. In fact, such a lavish celebration comes to Wilmington courtesy of the Cucalorus Film Festival. Tagged “An Evening at the Oscars,” the event gives the Port City a chance to experience celebration right in their own backyard at Screen Gems Studios. All the action will be televised inside Soundstage 3, and ticket holders will get more than their money’s worth with great food and some special guests.

Cucalorus has been the artistic backbone of the Port City for the past 15 years, holding an annual film festival fueled by people who have aa passion for cinema. Really, there seems to be no better way to help raise funds for the annual festival than with a party celebrating film’s biggest night. In the Cucalorus tradition, this will not be a typical boring Oscar party. They’re bringing a lot more than chips and dip. I had a change to talk with Cucalorus mainstay and all around good-guy Bo Webb about the evening’s finer points. encore: How is An Evening at the Oscars a part of Cucalorus?

Bo Webb: Wilmington’s most significant contribution to the arts, in my mind, comes from film. We are a film town, and people across the country know that. Cucalorus gives our film community its voice and has established a reputation among independent—and mainstream—filmmakers as a great place to make and showcase great film. The Oscars celebrate movies and our love of them in the same way that Cucalorus does—only we each showcase different aspects of modern film. They do the best of the big stuff; we do the best of everything else. e: So this is a red carpet-style event. Will there actually be a red carpet?

BW: We will in fact have red carpet! The guys at L&L Tent Rentals have some on hand for just such an occasion. In fact, we’ll also have paparazzi, red-carpet commentary from Jess James and Shannon Dunne of Style-Girl fame, special Oscar-party cocktails—they may be red—and a few other surprises. e: What should ticket buyers expect of the evening?

BW: First of all the Academy Awards on

by: Anghus

An Evening at the Oscars Sunday, March 7th Screen Gems Studios 1223 North 23rd Street Tickets: $100 large screens in a Screen-Gems soundstage—not your typical evening of TV. We’ll also have an open bar, food by Port Land Grille—not your typical restaurant— desserts (Hot Pink Cake Stand, Bakla-vavoom) and coffee from Folks Cafe. Entertainment during commercial breaks will be performed from Jonathan Guggenheim of Superkiiids! fame, and Zach Hanner, music from Bibis Ellison and others, an auction full of cool stuff, and some things—in true Cucalorus style—that we can’t predict and might not even be able to print. Cucalorus is known for its great parties, and this one will not disappoint. e: The tickets aren’t cheap. Where does the money go?

BW: The proceeds from this party will go toward funding the Cucalorus Film Festival’s core expenses. This party is what will help make the Cucalorus Film Festival in 2010 a reality. Despite our great reputation, we still operate our festival on a budget about a third of the size of comparable festivals. That we’ve been able to continue a festival of such high quality for 15 years is truly a miracle. The money we make at our Oscar party will help pay our incredibly dedicated staff who put on this festival and make the miracle a sustainable one. e: Where can readers acquire tickets?

BW: They’re available online at www.cucalorus.org, and on our blog at cucalorus13. blogspot.com. You can also pay for tickets with a check by mailing or bringing them to Cucalorus, 815 Princess Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401. Call us at (910) 343-5995 if you have any questions or would like to reserve whole table of eight for you and your friends, family or co-workers.

Here’s a chance to have an evening of fun and frenzy, with the proceeds going to help a fantastic local organization. Find your fanciest duds and grab a date. Oscar’s calling.

Another Scorcese Win: Shutter Island is a fascinating thriller

M

artin Scorsese knows how to make a movie. Is there a more obvious sentence in existence? Let me take a crack at it.

“Sarah Palin is not smarter than a fifth grader!”

“Someone got an STD from the cast of ‘Jersey Shore.’”

“John Holmes was well endowed.” “‘One Tree Hill’ is not very good.”

Martin Scorsese has been making damnfine films for the past four decades. The name alone should by now be synonymous with “quality cinema.” There aren’t enough words to properly honor a man whose career has been both a tribute and contribution to the art of the motion picture. The only negative that comes from a man with such a résumé is the assumption that every film he releases has to be “a classic.”

It’s a common critical response when a legendary director puts together a new project. Once someone has ascended to the level of “cinematic God,” where is there to go? Each subsequent film is compared to an entire body of work. It’s difficult to bring up a name like “Scorsese” and not spend a hefty chunk of the review comparing a single film against an entire body of work. But that’s always been the failing of most mainstream critics: lacking the ability to view a film as an individual piece rather than the latest entry on an ongoing résumé. Every film has to be grouped into a period or decade.

Shutter Island is a damn-fine film. The fourth consecutive team-up with leading man Leonardo DiCaprio. Personally, I’ve enjoyed the collaborations. The Aviator is a film I hold in high regard; The Departed is about as strong a crime film as a viewer will ever see. Shutter Island is something completely different—a strong psychological thriller.

Strong choices. Strong performances.

Strong character actors. This is not the stuff of subtlety, my friends. This is in-your-face filmmaking.

Leonardo DiCaprio plays Marshall Edward Fuller, a fedora-wearing law man with a gun in one hand and a cigarette clenched between his teeth. He and his partner are brought to the incredibly creepy Shutter Island, which houses the craziest killers to walk to the face of the earth. This is where the untreatable fractured minds are sent. One of the prisoners has escaped, and everyone at the prison is doing a pretty poor job of covering up a vast and incomprehensible conspiracy.

Edward knows something is terribly wrong.

His investigation brings some old demons to the surface. Edward’s own state of mental well-being is questionable. He cannot suppress the violent images of concentration

reel to reel a few must-sees this week

by: Anghus

Shutter Island Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Michelle Williams and Mark Ruffalo

H H HH H

obvious what’s going on when it’s finished, but it’s not known when looking at the pile of string. The “why” of it all is answered in the film’s final moments, when everything begins to make sense. A second viewing almost feels like an obligation.

Leonardo DiCaprio continues to impress me. I know a lot of people who don’t care

Cinematique Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut Street • $7 Wed-Sat., 7:30pm Sunday, 3pm Red Cliff Director John Woo has been described as having a choreographer’s soul. In Red Cliff, the most expensive Asian film ever made, he retells the classic story “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” about the birth of modern China in the third century. International star Tony Leung and Takeshi Kaneshiro provide solid characterizations and the byplay between them is as intriguing as the battle scenes. Mandarin w/ English subtitles. Rates R; 148 minutes.

Carmike 16 111 Cinema Drive 910-815-0266; call for times Cop Out (pictured) Two longtime NYPD partners on the trail of a stolen, rare, mint-condition baseball card find themselves up against a merciless, memorabilia-obsessed gangster. Jimmy (Bruce Willis) is the veteran detective whose missing collectible is his only hope to pay for his

IN-YOUR-FACE FILMMAKING: Shutter Island stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo in a Scorcese-made homage to Alfred Hitchcock.

camps he witnessed in the World War II. And his dead wife shows up every so often for some disturbing conversation.

There are no real twists in Shutter Island.

Scorsese plays his hand within the first two reels. Everything is off-kilter; nothing feels right. Conversations are unnecessarily tense. Situations feel forced. The entire film is like a puzzle where the wrong pieces are forced together; however, this seems very much Scorcese’s intention.

Shutter Island plays out like a spool of yarn that is slowly woven into a garment. It’s

for his particular brand of whimsy, but I think the guy has the goods. He plays Edward off balance and abrasive. He’s a man driven to madness in his pursuit of the truth—the lone voice of reason on an island filled with people intent on covering up the truth. It’s another fantastic performance for DiCaprio who is blessed with a gift of portraying damaged protagonists.

Michelle Williams is equally fascinating, once again showing a penchant for choosing exceptional material.

This is a big win for film fans—the kind of Scorsese movie I love: unpretentious, unrelenting, and infused with manic energy. I don’t know how many more films Marty has left in him, but I can guarantee I’ll be there every time.

Remember to recycle or compost your encore!

daughter’s upcoming wedding, and Paul (Tracy Morgan) is his “partner-against-crime” whose preoccupation with his wife’s alleged infidelity makes it hard for him to keep his eye on the ball. R

Mayfaire 16 900 Town Center Drive (910) 256-0556; call for times The Crazies Four friends find themselves trapped in their hometown in The Crazies, a reinvention of the George Romero classic. David Dutton is sheriff of Ogden Marsh, a picture-perfect American town with happy, law-abiding citizens. But, something is infecting the citizens of Ogden Marsh...with insanity. The few still sane find themselves trapped. Forced to band together, an ordinary night becomes a struggle for survival as they try to get out of town alive. R All AreA movie listings And pArAgrAph synopses cAn be found At encorepub.com.

encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 31

Picking Up the Pieces: Erica Morgan discovers healing in art by: Lauren Hodges

LIMITEDly: TIME onOR JOIN F

$1

Piecing It Back Together

Featuring the art work of Erica Morgan Edge of Urge, 18 Market Street March 4th • 7-10pm

F

Wilmington mayfaire town center 980 Town Center Dr. 910.239.1202 32 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

Visit us online for a free 7-day pass: o2fitnessclubs.com

aced with sudden loss, most of us go through the seven stages of grief: shock, guilt, anger, depression, adjustment, reconstruction and acceptance. For some, a few of the stages are harder to conquer than others. Local artist Erica Morgan was hit with the shock of her life when her younger brother died last year. Anger was a long process that was difficult for Morgan to overcome. “I detached myself from friends and family,� she says. “I stopped making art, had no creativity or drive, and started questioning the reason for my loss. No reason, in my opinion, was worth the cost of such an innocent and good-hearted life that was taken.�

Before the tragedy Morgan was a promising and hard-working artist. She had a solo show at the Wabi-Sabi Warehouse featuring her signature environmentally focused work.

Her most moving piece was made of organic cloth, soaked in motor oil, and over time showed the damage done to nature by a manmade substance. The dark, greasy oil slowly spread throughout the bright, clean material, darkening the color and filling the creases. In hindsight it was an ominous foreshadow to Morgan’s struggle. “In the weeks and months passing, death became very, very real to me,� she recalls. “I was abruptly made aware that everything—and I mean everything—only ends in death. So what was the point? My thoughts about life and death, purpose, coincidence . . . fell apart. I couldn’t make sense of anything, not even love, because to me, none of it mattered since it was all going to end in death anyway.�

Slowly and painfully Morgan made her way into a period of reflection. Her art had been neglected since the tragedy, but somehow all of the make-you-think messages featured in her previous works had not completely left her mind. Morgan’s talent for insight in art was going to be her saving grace. She began the stage of adjustment, which required, in her words, “to stop dwelling on the who, what, why and how of the death I was dealing with, and to realize no matter how much I focused my energy on all of those [things,] he wasn’t coming back. Nothing was going to change that. So I started seeing beauty in the world and people around me again.�

Without really looking for materials, Mor-

FRAYED: Found fabric and metal objects make up Erica Morgan’s Piecing It Back Together.

gan found herself amongst a new body of work naturally. She began with a fabric collage on a piece of cardboard and incorporated metal objects. She found a grate from an old grill and started to tie the whole piece together with clumps of frayed threads. It was pure improvisation, since she says she wasn’t actively seeking materials or picturing a finished product. The threads were left to hang freely from the work, which was meant to symbolize impermanence. “My struggle to work with what I knew about life and death, in order to cope, is mirrored in this body of work by only using material I had,� Morgan says. “It forced me to learn about myself and what I’m capable of, both with making art and dealing with my brother’s death.�

Having entered the sixth stage, reconstruction, Morgan was reminded of her previous commitment to environmentally conscious messages. She found that the process of recycling was a perfect metaphor for her new beginning. “I’m piecing back together objects that would have otherwise been discarded . . . allowing the environment to feel a little relief,� she notes. “Since all my materials are found, reclaimed and recycled, there is no impact on the environment. So in a sense, I’m giving life back to the environment—or at least extending the life of [it.]�

Today, Morgan has found herself in the seventh stage: acceptance. As she prepares to re-enter the art community, with an upcoming show at Edge of Urge, she hopes her message of hope will be contagious. “These works are a manifestation, or documentary, of my exposure to the multidimensional loss of life,� she says “Each piece is contrived of several components, some of which are in obvious conflict with the others and are fighting for priority or attention, but remain still connected whether loosely or permanently with each other and the whole—very much the same way the stages and levels of grief network with one’s mind.�

Artfuel.inc

1701 Wrightsville Ave 910 343 5233 Mon-Sat, 12-9pm; Sunday, 1-6pm www.artfuelinc.com www.myspace.com/artfuel_inc Artfuel.inc is located at the corner of Wrightsville Ave and 17th st. Housed in an old gas station, we offer resident artists working in studios alongside a gallery space used to exhibit other artists work. We hope to connect artists with each other and offer many styles of work to fuel the public’s interest. Currently, Artfuel, Inc. will showcase Volume 22, a graffiti extravaganza, featuring Stevie Mack, Kid Mike, Mathew Curran, Camden Noir and Eye Dee. Live tagging will s make up be done throughout the evening on a wall built specially for the event. All are welcome.

Crescent Moon

332 Nutt St, The Cotton Exchange (910) 762-4207 Mon.-Sat., 10am-5:30pm; Sun., 12-4pm www.crescentmoonnc.com Eleven Wilmington glass artists as well as four regional NC artists are now showcased at Crescent Moon at the Cotton Exchange. There is always room for more in our little glass and metal art gallery. So if you are a glass blower or flame-worker, fused glass or stained glass artist, or metal sculptor contact us to be juried in.

Crescent Moon won a 2009 Top Retailer by Niche Magazine for supporting and promoting hand-made craft. It is what we stand for.

Hours: Monday- Saturday 10am-5:30pm and Sundays 12pm-4pm. Crescent Moon is located in The Cotton Exchange where parking is FREE while shopping or dining. Call 910-762-4207 or visit HYPERLINK “http://www.crescentmoonnc. com”www.crescentmoonnc.com Follow us on twitter as CrescentMoonNC or become a fan on our Facebook page!

FastFrame Gallery

1319 Military Cutoff Rd. Landfall Center (910) 256-1105 Mon.-Fri.., 10am-6pm Sat., 10am-4pm www.fastframeofwilmington.com FASTFRAME Gallery is pleased to present the Second Annual Fill the Cupboard Art Show: “Ordinary View, Extraordinary Vision,” featuring Terry Rosenfelder’s sophisticated oils, M. Matteson Smith’s unique paper sculptures, and Sara Westermark’s original jewelry designs.

Affordable prices on prints and originals. Local artists with various styles and taste are just excited about having the opportunity to share their work with all art lovers. Our artists offer different sizes from what we have on display and low rates on commissioned work.

Owner Charles Turner invites all artists and art lovers to just hang out in our new Artist Lounge any time. Look for our upcoming Expos and Open House. Hampstead Art Gallery is located in Hampstead on the corner of Factory Road next to CVS Pharmacy.

New Elements Gallery

216 N. Front St. • (919) 343-8997 Tues-Sat: 11am-5:30pm or by appointment www.newelementsgallery.com New Elements Gallery presents Color Stories, a collection of recent works by the gallery’s artists, including Bruce Bowman, Nancy Carter, Richard Garrison, Jack Ketner and Sally Sutton. Exhibition Show will hanf through March 20th.

New Elements Gallery changes its exhibitions each month to coincide with Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, which takes place next on March 26th.

pattersonbehn art gallery

511 1/2 Castle Street (910) 251-8886 Tues.-Sat. 11am-5pm (Winter: closed Monday) www.pattersonbehn.com pattersonbehn will be featuring the work of Michelle Connolly. Michelle is a remarkably, prolific artist who has managed to stay connected to her inner child by channeling it through her artwork.

Though so much of her work comes from her personal memories and her very active imagination- there is also a strong sense of depth and maturity to many of her pieces. The show will be hanging from Feb. 18th- Mar. 18th. Opening will be Friday, Feb. 26th 6:00-8:00 pm. pattersonbehn is open Tuesday-Saturday 11-5.

The gallery also carries works by Bob Bryden, Virginia Wright-Frierson, Rachel Kastner, Pam Toll, and Katherine Webb, as well as a large selection of works on paper in numerous media.

WILMINGTON ART ASSOCIATION accepts entries fro their 28th annual Spring Art Show and Sale, taking place during the Azalea Festival.

Sunset River Marketplace

10283 Beach Dr., SW (NC 179).

(910) 575-5999 Tues- Sat. 10am-5pm Closed Mon. in winter sunsetrivermarketplace.com myspace.comsunsetrivermarketplace This eclectic, spacious gallery, located in the historic fishing village of Calabash, N.C., features fine arts and crafts by some of North and South Carolina’s most creative, successful artists.

Almost every genre is represented here—oil, pastel and watercolor, clay and glass art, fiber art, turned wood, metal works, artisan-crafted jewelry and more. Classes, workshops, pottery studio, custom framing, Creative Exchange lecture series and Coffee With the Author series are also offered on-site.

Wilmington Art Association Gallery

616B Castle St. (910) 343-4370 www.wilmington-art.org The Wilmington Art Association will hold its 28th annual Spring Art Show and Sale during the Azalea Festival week-end of April 9-11. The venue takes place at Perry Hall at St. James Episcopal Church, Fourth and Dock Streets Friday and Saturday from 10am-5:30pm and Sunday from noon-4pm. Free and open to the public. Check out Betty Brown’s winning “White Azalea” poster.

There is still time to enter the show. Deadline: March 15 . Register online at www. wilmington-art.org.

Currently showing is Gordon Webb, photographer, radio producer and scriptwriter.

Webb’s art photography will hang through March 24th.

Wanna be on the gallery page?

Hampstead Art Gallery

14712 Hwy. 17 N. • (910) 270-5180 Mon.-Sat. 11am-5pm, or by appt.

Hampstead, NC “Beautiful; lots of variety.” “Love the place.”

“Beautiful art work.” “Very nice.” “Art rocks your socks, and you know that.” These are just what a few customers had to say about Hampstead Art Gallery. Come and tell us what you think.

Call Shea Carver by Thursday, noon, at (910) 791-0688, ext 1004, to inquire about being included. encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 33

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After $50 mail-in rebate that comes as a Visa Debit Card. Requires new 2-yr. agmt. and 3-mo. Unlimited Data Plan. $30 act. fee may apply.

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') $$ Things we want you to know: New two-year agreement (subject to early termination fee) and credit approval required. A $30 activation fee may apply. Regulatory Cost Recovery Fee applies; this is not a tax or government-required charge. Additional fees, taxes, terms, conditions and coverage areas apply and vary by plan, service and phone. Use of service constitutes acceptance of the terms of our Customer Service Agreement. See store for details or visit uscellular.com. BOGO: Buy one handset and get a second handset for free. Mail-in rebate and activation required on each handset. Free Incoming Calls are not deducted from package minutes and are available only when receiving calls in your calling area. Night and Weekend Minutes valid Monday through Friday, 7 p.m. to 6:59 a.m. or 9 p.m. to 5:59 a.m. (depending on Calling Plan) and all day Saturday and Sunday. Night and Weekend Minutes are available throughout your calling area. Mobile-to-Mobile rate applies to calls you make to or receive from other U.S. Cellular customers in your Mobile-to-Mobile Calling Area (see brochure for details). Roaming indicator on your phone must be off for Mobile-to-Mobile rates to apply. Promotional Phones subject to change. U.S. Cellular Visa Debit Card issued by MetaBank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Allow 10–12 weeks for processing. Card does not have cash access and can be used at any merchant location that accepts Visa Debit Cards. Card valid for 120 days after issued. Premium Mobile Internet Plan is $19.95 per month. Application and data network usage charges may apply when accessing applications. Mobile Broadband on 3G Network only available with select handsets. Users can expect an average download speed of 768Kbps and an average upload speed of 200Kbps. Š2010 U.S. Cellular.

34 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

below Restaurant Review

36-39 Dining Guide

Latin America Comes to Wilmington: San Juan Café ups the ante on international dining

W

ith its roots planted across the globe, from Spanish to African, Asian to Native-American influences, Latin-American cuisine has its fair share of tantalizing ingredients: coriander, cumin, chiles, garlic, plantains, even the exotic culantro (a more pungent cilantro).

Though Wilmington may not exactly border Puerto Rico or Cuba, we have been known to welcome some of their flavors in and out of our coastal corridors.

Newest to our culinary map is San Juan Café on Wrightsville Avenue (in the building where the Moroccan café Nagilia once lived). Owned and operated by Danny Keegan, a Puerto-Rican native whose Johnson-and-Wales degree served him well at local eateries Osteria Cicchetti, Brasserie du Soleil and NOFO, San Juan boasts a menu of Caribbean flair suited to both vegetarians and carnivores, all of which meld traditional with experimental. In fact, something as simple as arepas get a fancy facelift on Keegan’s watch, served with duck confit, Columbian masa cheesecake, caramelized onions and cashews.

One word: Y-U-M! Last Friday afternoon, upon hearing many praises per word-of-mouth from my lovely culinary friends, I decided to check out the eatery for myself. It’s not that I don’t trust their opinions, it’s just that new restaurants beckon my attention first-hand—especially since dating a chef maintains we keep our dining-out expense account padded rather nicely.

It wasn’t busy in San Juan, sans a friend, also a local beer-and-wine representative, John Burke, who was dining at the bar. He stopped by our table to say hello and warn us of the deliciousness that are the bacalaitos, a deep-fried mixture of bread, white fish, cilantro and onions. San Juan serves them to every table as a starter—kind of like a Mexican restaurant’s pre-emptive basket of chips and salsa. Mr. Burke was right. Oh, were they good! Paper-thin crisps tasted zesty and sweet, with just the right amount of cilantro and onion, only enhanced by a mild fish background. While Matthew and I probably could have passed over more appetizers in favor of more bacalaitos, we decided instead to order more food than we could handle.

by: Shea Carver

San Juan Cafe H H H 1/2 H 3314-16 Wrightsville Avenue Mon. – Sat.: 11am–2pm; 5pm–10pm Closed Sundays Starting off with a Latin-American classic, chile rellenos, and one of San Juan’s interesting salad offerings, the ensalada de aguacate, we sipped our drinks and took in the atmosphere upon our short wait. The teracotta walls are adorned with cast-iron wallhangings, making the place cozy against the dark-wood tables and bar. Yet, occasional tropical remnants pepper the decor, a la the bright green border spanning the walls and resembling the back of a dragon, or the parrot-inspired art. The bursts of color make it clear that diners are preparing to indulge in Caribbean-inspired fare.

Once our starters arrived, we began to critique. The black-bean paste served underneath the chile rellenos was palate-awakening: earthy yet embracing just the right amount of heat to make the chiles dance nicely in their crusty cornmeal and quesofresca filling. The peppers were a little dry from the abundance of cornmeal coated on them, but the flavor was unstoppable.

The ensalada de aguacate, basically translated as “avocado salad,” offered a perfect lightness to the rellenos. Crisp romaine provided a base for the creamy garbanzo bean puree and homemade chicken salad served atop it. Stacked with avocado and tomato, the salad could be a large meal on its own, so order with the intent to share if also indulging in something else.

I was ready to stop at this point, but the aroma of fresh garlic and cumin wafted past my nose as our lovely server placed the daily special in front of me: Lamb Piononos. Ground-anything is something I can usually never get enough of, but ground lamb in particular captivates my attention on any menu. I’d never had the Puerto-Rican specialty piononos, wherein plantains and eggs are used, layering a savory filling. In this case it was like a picadillo of ground lamb, tomato, cumin, garlic, and green peppers and onions. Baked to

new comfort: San Juan Cafe takes traditional Latin-American cuisine and fancies its flavors up a notch, as featured in their (clockwise top) ensalada aguacote, lamb piononos and Cuban sandwich.

can’t help but mention San Juan’s fries.

“French” as they may seem, what has become an American food group on its own accord is mastered in this Latin-American eatery. The potatoes were perfectly crisp, golden and hand-cut, sprinkled with their own special seasoning.

“Can you imagine how much greater they’d be if they were cooked in duck fat?” Matthew rhetorically asked.

It wouldn’t surprise me if Keegan went that route. After all, his culinary skills are honed well, and his distinctive palate reperfection, with a crisp top and soft, sweet ally has an outlet to let loose now that and savory center, I couldn’t help but relhe’s running his own restaurant. ish every bite. White rice and red beans, Matthew and I already have planned our stewed with olives and onions in an rich next dinner date to San Juan. Items like broth, gave it a lovely dose of made-from- the pollo ajili mojili (half marinated chicken Grandma’s-kitchen. in mojito served with baked sweet potato, Matthew had a classic that most all Lat- French green beans and chimichurri) and in-American menus boast today: sandwich the chuleta (a grilled pork chop, bacon Cubano. The panini was pressed with roast- and plantain mofongo—i.e. mashed toed pork, ham, pickles and swiss cheese on gether—served with tomato and pepper slices of Cuban bread and served along- escabeche) beckon our attention. They’re side a culantro mayonnaise. The sandwich unlike any other item on a Wilmington oozed its layers, bite after bite. Though menu, and that, to us, makes this restauit may seem sacrilege to even go here, I rant all the more exciting. encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 35

e u ito eatdand d i n i n g gwhere drink in the port city american

c.G. daWGS

Enjoy an extensive selection of gourmet soups, salads, sandwiches and specialty Americana in this rustic chic setting. From the dry-rubbed and slow-roasted Better Buffalo Wings to the hardwood smoked Duck Quesadilla, Black Horn offers unique twists on traditional foods. Always family friendly with smoke-free dining, a large arcade gaming area, 23 Hi-Def TV’s and Nintendo Wii. Live music every weekend. 7 days a week, 11am–2am. 15 Carolina Beach Avenue North, “the boardwalk,” Carolina Beach. www.blackhornbarandkitchen.com.

(910) 458-5255.

For great traditional New York style eats with Southern charm look no further than C.G. Dawgs.

You will be drawn in by the aroma of fine beef franks served with witty banter and good natured delivery from the cleanest hot dog carts in Wilmington. Sabrett famous hot dogs and Italian sausages are the primary fare offered, with a myriad of condiments for all of your mid-day or late night cravings. You may find them daily at their new location on the boardwalk of Market and Water St. from 11am to 5pm. Saturdays at the farmers market. Thursday-Saturday nights they are on Market St. between Front and 2nd St. from 10pm to 3:00am. Then they finish the week off at Fibbers on Sunday nights until 3am. To busy to leave the office? Ask about their lunch time delivery service for downtown!!

Brixx Wood Fired Pizza

Flat eddie’S

Black Horn Bar & kitcHen

A short drive from the beach, Brixx Wood Fired Pizza in Mayfaire Town Center is a fun, friendly neighborhood restaurant. Serving the best brick-oven pizzas around, Brixx also offers a fine selection of signature focaccia sandwiches, pastas, fresh salads and desserts. Stop in for a quick lunch, or kick back on the patio with one of 24 beers on tap or 14 wines by the glass. Brixx is also a latenight destination, serving 2-for-1 pizzas and appetizers after 10 p.m. Open until 1 a.m.

Monday through Saturday and 11 p.m. on Sunday.6801 Main Street, Wilmington, NC 28405. 910-256-9677. www.brixxpizza.com.

BlUeWater

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of sailing ships and the Intracoastal Waterway while dining at this popular casual American restaurant in Wrightsville Beach. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Favorites include jumbo lump crab cakes, succulent seafood lasagna, crispy coconut shrimp and an incredible Caribbean fudge pie. Dine inside or at their award-winning outdoor patio and bar, which is the location for their lively Waterfront Music Series every Sunday during the summer months. Large parties welcome. Private event space available. BluewaterDining.com. 4 Marina Street, Wrightsville Beach , NC . 910.256.8500.

cHriS’ coSmic kitcHen cosmickitchenonline.com

Serving breakfast all day as well as lunch and handmade cheesecake, Chef and Owner Chris Lubben loves to make many of his menu items from scratch. Whether you’re in the mood for a fluffy 3-egg Omelet, Shrimp & Grits, Prime Rib Sandwich or Andes Mint Cheesecake, Chris’ Cosmic Kitchen is your “Out of this World” Breakfast/Lunch Destination. Evening restaurant rental is available, as well as a Personal Chef service.

Chris’ Cosmic Kitchen is located at 420 Eastwood Rd, Unit 109, on the corner of Racine Dr. and Eastwood Rd. Closed Monday. Open Tues-Sat. from 8am-4pm with Sun. Brunch from 9am-2pm.

Take-out calls welcome, 792-6720. Follow us on Twitter @CosmicKitchen.

36 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

Are you ready to eddie? FLAT eddie’s upbeat, modern dining room & bar makes eddie’s the new “it” place to dine in Wilmington for New American Cuisine. Why FLAT eddie’s? Their signature flatbreads! These flavorful creations start with scratch-made dough, stretched thin and piled high with ingredients like roma tomatoes, succulent shrimp and luxurious cheeses.

All sandwiches and burgers are under $8 and their entrees are unique and bold. FLAT eddie’s bar serves up $2 and $3 beer and cocktail specials daily. Private dining area available.

Large groups welcome. Family-style meals to go available. FlatEddiesRestaurant.com. 5400 Oleander Drive, Wilmington . 910.799.7000.

tHe GeorGe on tHe riVerWalk

Drop your anchor at The George on the RiverWalk, your destination for complete sense indulgence. Watch the historic Cape Fear River unfold before you while you enjoy the best in Southern Coastal Cuisine. The menu combines elegance, creativity and diverse selection of steak, pasta, salad and fresh seafood, including the best Shrimp n’ Grits in town. Warm in the sun on the expansive outdoor deck sipping an exotic, colorful martini, or unwind at the spacious bar inside boasting extensive wine and martini lists along with weekday appetizer specials from 4:00pm-6:30pm. Don’t forget to try downtown’s best kept secret for Sunday Brunch from 11am-3pm. You are welcome to dock your boat at the only dock’n’dine restaurant downtown, grab a trolley, or enjoy our free, front door parking (ask for pass!) Lunch and Dinner Tues-Sunday. Why satisfy when you can indulge? Find the George on the RiverWalk at 128 South Water Street. 910-763-2052 or online at www.thegeorgeontheriverwalk.com

HellS kitcHen

This former Dawson’s Creek stage set has been turned into a lively pub in the heart of Downtown Wilmington. Their extensive menu ranges from classics like a thick Angus burger or NY style reuben to lighter fare such as homemade soups,

fresh salads, and vegetarian options. Whether meeting for a business lunch, lingering over dinner and drinks, or watching the game on the big screen, the atmosphere and friendly service will turn you into a regular. Open late 7 days a week, with a pool table, darts, weekly trivia, and live music on the weekends. Offers limited lunchtime delivery during the week and can accommodate large parties. M-Sat 11am until late, opens Sundays at noon. 118 Princess St, (910) 763-4133

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 and offers daily blackboard specials that include entrees with fresh, local ingredients. Come early for lunch, because its going to be packed. Dinner too! Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to 30 people.

Henry’s is home to live music, wine & beer dinners and other special events. Check out their calendar of events at HenrysRestaurant. com for details. 2508 Independence Boulevard, Wilmington, NC. 910.793.2929.

HolidaY inn reSort

The Verandah Café 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. Open daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. 256-2231 Wrightsville Beach.

keFi

Kefi, founded in 1981 by a group of friends, has a long-standing tradition as a favorite local watering hole. This Wrightsville-Beach eatery is open at 6am for breakfast, offering everything from omelets and pancakes, to shrimp and grits. Take a break from the beach and visit Kefi’s, where their menu features a variety of salads and sandwiches. There is even a “working man’s lunch,” served Monday through Friday, all for under $6. At night Kefi comes alive by serving dinner with a Southern flare. From the fried pickles appetizer to their the shrimp or oyster Po’boy to their nightly dinner specials, there is something that will make your taste buds sing.

Then stick around for live music on Friday, Saturday and Sunday; nightly drink specials are offered. Go online at www.kefilive.com for more info and full music schedule. Open 6am-2am, seven days a week, with full ABC permits. Lunch deliveries available in the Wrightsville Beach area. Located at 2012 Eastwood Road, 910-256-3558.

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. Open Tuesday-Sunday, serving dinner at 5pm. 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

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. Now, Kathy Webb and Christi Ferretti are expanding their talents into serving lunch in-house, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy ambience of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to childhood. Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is something for all palates. Take advantage of their take-home frozen meals for nights that are too hectic to cook, and don’t forget to pick up a great bottle of wine to go with it. Mon.-Fri. 10am-7pm; Sat. 9am-6pm; closed Sunday. 3520 S. College Road, (910) 350-FOOD.

melloW mUSHroom

Mellow out and relax in the comfortable atmosphere that Mellow Mushroom offers.

From the giant psychadelic ‘shroom located in the bar area to the Cadillac hanging on the wall, this restaurant is far from ordinary. The open kitchen brings live entertainment as pizza dough flies in the air. Their hand-tossed, spring-water dough brings new meaning to pizzas and calzones—healthy!! With 20 drafts and an array of microbrews, domestic and import bottles, Mellow Mushroom has an extensive beer list and full bar.

Also, check out their lunch specials and variety of sandwiches. Their menu also caters to everyone and offers many vegetarian dishes. Live jazz on Wednesdays. Hours: Mon-Sat, 11am-10pm; Sun., 12pm-9pm. 4311 Oleander Drive, 452-3773.

trollY StoP

Trolly Stop Hot Dogs are family owned with six locations. Since 1976 we specialize in homemade chili, slaw and sauces. Dogs include Smighfield (beef & pork), Southern Dog, Sabrett (all beef), Northern Dog, Carolina Packers Pork Dog (smoke sausage), Oscar Mayer 98% Fat Free Dogs (turkey) and Light Life Veggie Dog (soy). Locations are: 126 N. Front Street Open six days including Thurs., Fri., and Sat. night from 10pm-3am; 343-2999, 94 S. Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, 2561421; 4502 Fountain Dr., 452-3952. Open at 11am on Sat.; South Howe St. in Southport, 457-7017; 103A Cape Fear Blvd in Carolina Beach, 458-5778. Catering cart available all year from $300. 910-297-8416.

asian Double Happiness

Double Happiness offers the Port City fine Asian dining at reasonable prices. We prepare flavorful dishes inspired by the cultural richness of Malaysia, Thailand and authentic China. We’re now serving traditional dim sum, and good health special vegetarian dishes, such as Soy Peking Ribs, homemade tofu and homemade Malaysian sponge cake. We are dedicated to branding the exotic flavors of fresh ingredients and a romantic spice in all of our cooking techniques. Our friendly staff is always willing to help customers, and we serve beer and wine for lunch and dinner. Banquet and tatami rooms are available for large parties.

Open Monday through Saturday, 11am-10pm; and Sunday 3pm-10pm. 4403 Wrightsville Avenue; 910-313-1088. www.doublehappinessrestaurant.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), 799-1426.

Hiro japanese steakHouse

What better way to celebrate a special occasion or liven up a dinner out than to dine in a place where every meal is an exciting presentation. Knowing that a meal should be more than just great food, Hiro adds a taste of theatre and a amazing atmosphere to everyone’s dinning experience. Also serving sushi, Hiro surprises its guests with a new special roll every week and nightly drink specials to complement it. From 47pm enjoy half-priced nigiri and half-priced regular makimono. Nigiri makimono combos are only $7.50, while early-bird specials last from 4-6pm, where diners can choose two: shrimp, chicken or steak. Open Monday thru Thursday 4pm-10pm; Friday and Saturday 4pm-10:30pm; and Sunday 11am-10pm. Located at 222 Old Eastwood Road (910) 794-1570. Please visit the Web site at hirojapanesesteakhouse.com.

inDoCHine restaurant anD 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, or be entertained every Friday night with a Balinese dancer. Located at 7 Wayne Drive (beside the Ivy Cottage), 251-9229. Indochinewilmington.com.

Yo sake

Located on the second floor of the historic Roudabush building in downtown Wilmington, Yo Sake features the best sushi along with a full panAsian menu served amid fabulous Tokyo vogue décor. Entrees include Sake Bombed Duck, Tea Rubbed Salmon and Grilled Beef Tenderloin. The bar boasts an extensive wine list including 16 sakes and fantastic specialty drinks like the Wilmington-famous Pomegranate Ginger Mojito. Don’t forget to try the Fresh Mango Cheesecake or the scrumptious Coconut Banana Ice Cream, and, if you ask nicely, they just might drop a scoop of the Lychee Sorbet into a glass of champagne for you.

Open everyday 5pm-2am. Dinner served 5-11pm.

Ask about our late night menu. Live entertainment nightly Tuesday -Saturday beginning at 10:30pm.

33 South Front Street, downtown Wilmington.

(910) 763-3172. Visit us at www.yosake.com.

Caribbean jaMaiCa’s CoMFort Zone

Jamaica’s Comfort Zone is Wilmington’s Authentic Caribbean Restaurant conveniently located at 417 S. College Road in University Landing. We offer exquisite Caribbean cuisine to satisfy your taste buds, whether they are for spicy Jamaican jerk chicken, mellow flavors of our curry chicken, curry goat or our ox tail skillfully flavored by our Jamaican chefs. Come in and enjoy our many menu selections, our warm décor, smoke-free atmosphere, excellent service and our smooth reggae music. Operating hours are: Sunday 3:00pm – 8:00pm; Wednesday – Saturday 11:45am – 9:00pm (Closed Monday and Tuesday). Jamaica’s Comfort Zone is family owned and operated. Check us out at www. jamaicascomfortzone.com or call us 910399-2867.

FrenCH CapriCe bistro

Wilmington’s finest French cuisine can be found at Caprice Bistro, a small informal neighborhood restaurant, serving hearty food in generous portions at affordable prices. Simple is the atmosphere in the bistro, as plain white plates and tables dressed in white paper make up the decor. However, the food is far from simple, as a combination of fresh ingredients and innovative preparation delight the taste buds with a plethora of unique appetizers, entrées and desserts. The service is fast, efficient and non-intrusive, and the ambience is friendly and unpretentious. After dinner, be sure to venture upstairs into their cozy and relaxing sofa bar for an after-dinner martini, or enjoy your meal there, as a light-fare and full menus are served. Art is always on display in the sofa bar, so be sure to inquire frequently about their artist show receptions. Voted “Best French Restaurant” three years in a row! 10 Market Street, downtown Wilmington, 815-0810.

italian antonios piZZa anD pasta

Antonio’s Pizza and Pasta, simply known as Antonio’s, is anything but simple. From scrumptious appetizers to signature pizza to some of the best traditional Italian pasta dishes in town, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cozy dinner for two or bring the whole family in for pizza and fun. Offering beer and wine at their Monkey Junction and Porter’s Neck location and live music Friday and Saturday nights with all ABC permits at their Leland location, Antonio’s has thought of everything for you to enjoy your dining experience with them. Monkey Junction across from Super Walmart off South College Road (910) 792-0000, Porter’s Neck Shopping Center next to Kiva Grill off Market Street (910) 686-7774, Cross Creek Commons across from Magnolia Greens (910) 383-0033. www. antoniospizzaandpasta.com

eDDie roManelli’s

Eddie Romanelli’s is a family-friendly, casual Italian American restaurant that’s been a favorite of Wilmington locals for over 16 years. Its diverse menu includes Italian favorites such as Mama Romanelli’s Lasagna, Baked Ziti, Rigatoni a la Vodka and, of course, madefrom-scratch pizzas. Its American influences include tasty burgers, the U.S.A. Salad and a 16oz. Marinated Rib Eye Steak. Romanelli’s offers patio dining and flat screen TVs in its bar area. Dine in or take out, Romanelli’s is always a crowd favorite. Large parties welcome. RomanellisRestaurant.com. 503 Olde Waterford Way, Leland. 910.383.1885.

giorgio’s italian restaurant

Giorgio’s is a locally owned, one-of-a-kind restaurant. Offering age-old traditions and timeless recipes, perfection is accomplished by combining the perfect cuisine and atmosphere for a dining experience that is not soon forgotten. With over 50 years of cooking experience under one roof, the smells of old-fashioned home cooking float through the air creating that comforting feeling of home-away-from-home!

From old world style dishes to modern day creations, the menu showcases multiple flavors that will tempt the palate of the most discriminating connoisseurs. A Monkey Junction landmark for over 12 years! www.giorgios-restaurant.com. 5226 S College Rd.,Wilmington 910-790-9954.

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. We have the largest tequila selection in Wilmington. Voted “Best Pizza” and “Best Late Night Eatery.”

Stop by for lunch dinner, or a late-night treat, open from 11:30am until 3am, seven days a week, 365 days a year, all ABC permits. 122 Market Street between Second and Front, downtown Wilmington. 251-9444. Visit our 2nd location at 1437 Military Cutoff rd., next to PT’s! 256-2229 www.grabslice.com.

organiC loVeY’s Market

Lovey’s Market is a true blessing for shoppers looking for natural and organic groceries, or just a great place to meet friends for a quick, delicious, and totally fresh snack. Whether they are in the mood for a veggie burger, a bean burrito or a chicken Caesar wrap, shoppers will find a large selection of nutritious meals on the a la carte café menu at Lovey’s. The food bar—which has cold salads and hot selections that can be eaten in the café seating or boxed for take-out—can be enjoyed all day long, while the juice bar offers a wide variety of juices and smoothies made with organic fruits and vegetables.

Specializing in bulk sales of produce, grains, flours, beans and spices at affordable prices, Lovey‘s also carries grass-fed and free-range meats and poultry. Wheat-free, gluten-free, products are in stock regularly, as are vegan and vegetarian groceries and wholesome pet foods. For anything shoppers want that is not in stock, Lovey‘s will be happy to find it.

Stop by Lovey’s Market Monday through Friday, 9am to 7pm; Saturday, 9am to 6pm; and on Sundays, 10am to 6pm. Café hours: Monday-Friday, 11am–6pm; Saturday & Sunday, 10am-6pm.

Located at 1319 Military Cutoff Road; 910-5090331. Online at www.loveysmarket.com.

tiDal Creek Co-op

Tidal Creek Deli offers a wide array of exceptional and unusual organic foods, all of which taste as good as they are for you.

The salad bar and hot bar incorporate flavors from around the world; each item is prepared by hand using only fresh and local ingredients. The chefs are constantly experimenting to create new and exciting dishes. Choose from made to order smoothies with almond butter and hemp milk, salads with locally grown greens or, special order a wedding cake made from scratch to your specifications. Whatever your tastes, Tidal Creek Deli is a place to rejuvenate the mind and body while enjoying the company of a friendly and relaxed organic community.

seaFooD 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 comfortable in flip flops as you would in a business suit. smoke-free! Located at 12 Dock St in downtown Wilmington. Open for lunch and dinner, 7 days a week. 762-2827 www.dockstreetoysterbar.net.

east at tHe bloCkaDe runner Hotel

The Blockade Runner offers an array of seasonal seafood specials, certified Angus beef, lobster menu on Friday evening plus a spectacular Sunday brunch. Romantic al fresco dining is available on our dinner deck located in the center of a lush garden overlooking the ocean far away from the traffic and noise. We offer

encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 37

UNCW BASEBALL Fri., March 5 UNCW vs. Akron 4:00 p.m.

Sat., March 6 UNCW vs. Stonybrook 12:30 p.m.

Sat., March 6 UNCW vs. Akron 4:00 p.m.

Sun., March 7 UNCW vs. Stonybrook 1:30 p.m.

Tues., March 9 UNCW vs. Ball State 4:00 p.m.

Wed., March 10 UNCW vs. Wake Forest 4:00 p.m.

6/$8 PS WJTJU VT POMJOF BU 6/$8TQPSUT DPN GPS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO 38 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com

live entertainment on Saturday evening and Sunday brunch. Our smoke-free lounge is ecofriendly and offers light fare nightly. 275 Waynick Blvd. Wrightsville Beach. 910-256-2251.

welcome. Private event space available. Family-style to go menu available. OceanicRestaurant.com. 703 S. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach. 910.256.5551

HIERONYMUS

REEl CafE

Proving that excellent seafood isn’t just for the eateries at Wrightsville Beach, Hieronymus Seafood is the stop for midtown Wilmington seafood lovers. In business for 27 years strong, Hieronymus has made a name for itself by consistently providing excellent service and the freshest of the fresh in oceanic cuisine. Complete with a full-service bar and a fireside oyster bar, it’s the place to be if you are seeking top-quality attributes in atmosphere, presentation, flavor and ingenuity. Signature dishes include Oysters Hieronymus and the Scallops Fra Diavlo. Hieronymus has all ABC permits and also provides catering. Voted “Best Seafood” in 2007. 5035 Market Street; 392-6313.

CatCH MOdERN SEafOOd

When Wilmingtonians think of fresh, flavorful seafood, they flock to Catch. Couples enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres at the bar, professionals meet for business meetings and locals come for their favorites. The understated décor and friendly service create a warm and relaxing atmosphere. In this quaint bistro, Catch serves New American seafood with Asian influences. Customers enjoy unique flavors and modern creations, matched with the best local seafood and organic produce in the Cape Fear. Some seasonal offerings include softshell crabs, grouper nuggets, summer flounder, N.C. shrimp and Carolina catfish. House specialties range from broiled miso-glazed wild salmon to crispy fried oyster platters. No reservations accepted. Open Mon-Fri., 11am – 2pm for lunch and now open for dinner WedFri. only from 5:30pm – 9pm (BYOB). 215 Princess Street, downtown Wilmington. Catch is chef-owned and -operated. (910) 762-2841 or www.catchwilmingtonnc.com.

OCEaN gRIll

Located next to the Golden Sands hotel in Carolina Beach, the Ocean Grill offers three distinct dining experiences: a spacious dining room with wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean, a patio bar in the covered patio area, and a open-air Tiki Bar on the pier. You will find a full menu inside, and appetizers, sandwiches and a full selection of beverages on the Tiki Bar menu. Serving lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and brunch on Sundays from 10am-2pm. Lunch 7 days a week beginning May 22nd. Live music calendar: www.oceangrill.us. Tiki Bar open at 11am 7 days a week. 1211 S. Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach; (910) 458-2000.

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 wedding receptions, birthday gatherings, anniversary parties and more. Large groups

For eight years, the Reel Café has been Wilmington’s premier restaurant and nightlife location, because it has something for everyone. Enjoy dining in our restaurant, live music in our courtyard Oyster Bar, dancing in the second-floor danceclub or cocktails on the Rooftop Bar overlooking the Cape Fear River. We offer lunch, dinner and a late-night menu. Lunch has a variety of salads, sandwiches and steamers. Our dinner menu has a wonderful variety of burgers, sandwiches, pastas and steaks. We also have delicious seafood entrées and salads, or try the specials prepared daily by our chef. Whether it’s a delightful meal, live music or the downtown nightlife, The Reel Café is the place to be. Located at 100 S. Front Street, the Reel is also available for banquets and private parties. Call for details: 251-1832.

SOUtHERN Hall’S tROpICaNa REStaURaNt

Hall’s is a Wilmington tradition! Originally opened in 1901 as a drug store, Hall’s has been serving the Downtown community for over 100 years. We serve traditional Southern fare, including a classic breakfast with the accompaniments you’ve grown to love. Lunch includes a Southern buffet Monday-Friday with pork, chicken, all the fixin’s, and a special addition every day! Don’t forget our unique menu, which includes everything from specialty sandwiches to fried seafood. Most importantly, at Hall’s everything is fresh! Open Monday-Friday, 7am-2pm (buffet 11-2), and Saturday from 7am-12:30pm with breakfast and menu items only. 421 Castle St. 910-762-2210.

pINK pIg CafE

Downtown Wilmington’s newest dining option has arrived! Serving breakfast and lunch all day, the Pink Pig offers a full menu featuring good ol’ fashioned cookin’ along with a few of our own innovations. For breakfast, try one of our tasty country plates or a sandwich stacked high with your favorite items. For lunch, try our already-famous Redneck Reuben, and you can’t go wrong with our real pit-smoked barbecue sandwiches. C’mon in try for yourself! Open Tues-Sat, 8am-8pm, and Sun., 10am-6pm. 124 Princess St, Downtown. 910-399-6096 other sporting events. We have plenty of seating and a fun atmosphere for the whole family. In Racine Commons, 910-409-9860.

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 UNCW, this lively sports-themed restaurant is home to over 40 HD TVs and the biggest HD projector TVs in Wilmington. 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.

Carolina Ale House serves its full menu from 11a – 2a daily. CarolinaAleHouse.com. 317 South College Road, Wilmington, NC. 910.791.9393.

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below Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown 42-46 Calendar / Toons / Corkboard

Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown: ‘Free’ is the week’s four-letter word!

I

t happens every year like clockwork: The sun starts staying out a little longer. The days start progressively getting warmer.

The residents go mad about town to partake in free stuff to do! Yep, that’s right—I said it: F-R-E-E! The annual 2010 New Hanover County Residents’ Free Day, also known as “Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown,” continually comes to us at the cusp of spring, almost as if the folks over at the Cape Fear Coast Convention and Visitor’s Bureau know exactly how to alleviate our cabin fever from winter’s breezy, cold temperatures. Like the many free-days that have come before it, 2010’s event will make for one hefty activity-filled Sunday, held March 7th at participating attractions and tourist stops all over Wilmington.

It’s the perfect time to breathe in fresh, warmer air and enjoy the outdoors, whether strolling through Airlie or taking a boat ride along the Intracoastal. There will be tours, live demonstrations and free stuff to do all day along our coast; just bring an ID proving New-Hanover residency (attractions allowing citizens from other counties are noted in the event paragraphs), and reap the benefits. Here is what will be offered: (Note: Some events require early reservations or ticket pickup).

Airlie Gardens 300 Airlie Road • (910) 798-7566 Stroll through the winding paths of this century-old garden by the sea, where the foliage and views are always breathtaking.

Open 9am to 5pm.

Arboretum at New Hanover County Co-op Extension 6206 Oleander Drive • (910) 798-7660.

Explore six or more acres of demonstration and trial gardens to discover the newest and best plants for area landscapes and gardens, from 8am-6pm.

Battleship NORTH CAROLINA Hwys.17/74/76/421, on the Cape Fear River • (910) 251-5797.

From 8am-5pm, climb aboard the Battleship, and imagine being at sea during WWII, searching the sky for enemy aircraft, anticipating what may happen next. History comes alive. Free admission to New Ha-

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by: Shea Carver nover, Brunswick and Pender county residents with proper ID. Last boarding 4pm; closes 5pm.

Bellamy Mansion Museum 503 Market Street • (910) 251-3700.

Visit the formal areas and kitchen in the basement of the mansion, 1-4pm, and hear historical information about the original slave quarters and its restoration in the rear garden. Gift shop will also be open.

Blue Moon Gift Shops 203 Racine Drive • (910) 799-5793.

Open from noon to 5pm, Blue Moon features over 100 eclectic shops, showcasing works by artists and crafts-people. Tastings and craft/vendor demonstrations will take place throughout the day.

Burchetta Glassblowing Studio and Gallery 201 Red Cross Street • (910) 399-7614.

See live glassblowing demonstrations and tour the gallery from 10am-4pm.

VROOM-VROOM-VROOM: Jungle Rapids will bring out the speed demon in all of Wilmington, as they offer a free go-kart ride or a free round of Jungle Golf to its patrons.

Burgwin-Wright Museum House 224 Market Street • (910) 762-0570 While the house will not be open, visitors may tour the historic gardens and visit the Colonial kitchen and the former jail. A selfguided garden tour is available, with layout, historic facts, plant identification, etc., all taking place noon to 5pm.

vation Matters; Going to the Movies; and Cape Fear Treasures: Drinks.

Cameron Art Museum 3201 S. 17th Street • (910) 395-5999 Southeast NC’s premier art museum will be open from 11am-5pm, featuring three exhibitions: Toying with Art (Galleria cases); KALEIDOSCOPE: Changing Views of the Permanent Collection (Brown Wing); and Recollection: The Past is Present (Hughes wing). Located at the corner of Independence and Shipyard boulevards.

Cape Fear Museum of History and Science 814 Market Street • (910) 798-4350 Discover the history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear, from 1-5pm. Visit the Cape Fear’s newest exhibits: Conser-

Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill 4240 Market Street • (910) 762-0173.

Starting at noon and lasting until 9pm, Capt’n Bills will offer free volleyball! The grill will be open with food and drink specials, too!

Carolina Beach Lake Park Atlanta & Lake Park Blvd (910) 617-9793.

Located in Carolina Beach, Wheel Fun Rentals will offer free paddle boat rentals. to New Hanover residents only from 10am to 2pm.

Carolina Beach State Park State Park Road • (910) 458-8206 For 12 hours, 8am-8pm. folks can head over to the Carolina Beach Park with a picnic and fishing supplies, and explore nature trails, the visitor center, or just enjoy the nature that surrounds them. (Marina closed for renovation/campsite rentals not included.)

EUE/Screen Gems Studio 1223 N. 23rd Street • (910) 343-3500 Screen Gems will give tours on Sunday at 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm, but advance tickets are required! To tour Screen Gems, participants must pick up tickets on Friday the 5th at Screen Gems from 12-5pm. Tickets will be given out on a first-come, firstserve basis. No tickets will be handed out on the day of the tour!

Federal Point History Center 1121-A North Lake Park Blvd.

(910) 458-0502.

Enjoy exhibits and audio-visual presentations portraying periods in the Federal Point community, including pre-historic, colonial, Civil War and development of Carolina-Kure Beaches and Seabreeze as tourist attractions. Refreshments served; takes place 1-4pm.

Fort Fisher State Historic Site—Civil War Fort Hwy. 421 Kure Beach • (910) 458-5538 Enjoy scenic views of the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean, from 1-5pm, upon visiting, tour trails, historic earthen fortifications, visitor center and Civil War museum.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area 1000 Loggerhead Road, off US 421 (910) 458-5798.

Visitor center, free access to the 4WD beach and four-mile stretch of undeveloped beach for shell seekers, bird watchers.

4WD access free to New Hanover residents only, from 8am-5pm.

Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington Meets at Cape Fear Riverwalk at Market & Water streets • (910) 233-7630 Guided tours start at 5:30pm only. Reservations are required and on a first-come, first-served basis. Guides will take larger groups than normal, and tour will be somewhat abbreviated. Space is limited. New Hanover residents only!

Greenfield Grind Skatepark Burnett Blvd, behind Parks and Rec offices • (910) 362-8222 Participants get free admission between 18pm. All participants are required to wear helmet and pads.

Halyburton Park 4099 17th Street • (910) 341-0075 From 8am-5pm take a hike, or ride a bike through the 58-acre tract of land, comprised of gently-rolling sandhills, wet pine flatwoods and lime-sink depression ponds, and discover the many plants and animal species living here.

Hannah Block Historic USO/ Community Arts Center 2nd & Orange streets • (910) 793-6393 Spend a WWII-history afternoon, 12pm5pm, at one of the few remaining USO buildings. Tour the restored building, theatre, and WWII home front mini-museum.

Meet local WWII veterans and home-front workers with wartime memorabilia to swap stories, pose for photos and share experiences. It’s an opportunity to say “thanks” to our version of the Greatest Generation.

Haunted Pub Crawl at Fat Tony’s Italian Pub 131 N. Front Street • (910) 343-8881 Get a “taste” of the Haunted Pub Crawl, from noon-6pm, and hear eerie tales that will both shiver ye timbers and make ye laugh out loud; starting at noon on the hour every hour with the last one at 6pm. All ages welcome; stories censored to suit audience. Prizes for kids.

Hollywood Location Walk of Old Wilmington Meets at Cape Fear Riverwalk at Market and Water streets • (910) 233-7630 Guided tours start at noon only. Reservations are required on a first-come, firstserved basis. Guide will take larger groups than normal, and tour will be somewhat abbreviated. Space is limited, and for New Hanover residents only!

Hugh MacRae Park & Nature Trail Oleander Drive and S. College Road (910) 798-7181

From 8am-10pm, Hugh MacRae’s playgrounds (5-12-year-old playground is lighted), lighted tennis courts, athletic fields, picnic areas, nature trails, etc., can be enjoyed. And it’s free everyday (except for shelter, horse ring, baseball fields and garden rentals). Baseball fields must be reserved in advance. Walk the 1.55 mile trail right in the park or visit the Hugh MacRae Nature Trail located across the street behind the New Hanover Senior Center.

Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park 5320 Oleander Drive • (910) 791-0666 Offering a choice of one of the following activities to each participant, from 1-4pm: A free round of Jungle Golf—or—a free gokart ride—or—a free wall climb.

N.C. Military History Museum 116 Air Force Way, Kure Beach (910) 477-0499 Visit from noon-4pm, and see artifacts, memorabilia, displays from WWI through Desert Storm, with photos, documents, letters, uniforms, fieldgear, hats, helmets, gift shop and more.

Special Guests at Riverfront Visitor Information Booth Cape Fear Riverwalk, Water and Market streets • (910) 341-4030 With weather permitting, from 1-3pm, team and event mascots will greet residents, hand out schedules/flyers, pose for photos, and sign autographs. Confirmed guests include “Salty Dawg” (Wilmington Sea Dawgs pro basketball team) and “Sharky” (Wilmington Sharks baseball team); Azalea Belles (courtesy of the Cape Fear Garden Club); and storyteller/musician John Golden from 2-3pm.

Educators from the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s outreach classroom will share information about marine life found along NC’s coast. Stop by to meet the special guests, get a “Hometown Tourist” sticker, and a list of attractions/tours offering free admission!

The Black Cat Shop 11 Market Street • (910) 251-6663 Aye, mateys, ‘yer looking for a bit of adventure in the Port City? Drop by to see some magic, hear some true Wilmington pirate stories or to have ye fortune told, from 15pm. Space is limited and we will entertain first-come, first-served.

UNCW Arboretum Campus 601 S. College Road • (910) 962-3107 Explore this institutional arboretum campus with plant identification signs, from 7am5pm, Three areas are of particular interest: “The Heritage Garden” at the front quadrangle; “The Campus Commons” in the center of campus; and “The Bluethenthal Nature Preserve,” located off Price Drive behind the University Union.

SPIKE IT! Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill will offer free volleyball to all players on Sunday, March 7th, noon9pm. Their grill will also be open, serving food to those who work up an appetite.

Victorian Gardens at Latimer House Museum 126 South 3rd Street • (910) 762-0492 Enjoy a self-guided tour of garden only (brochure available at site, weather permitting) from 1-4pm; the house will be closed.

Wheel Fun Rentals 107 Carolina Beach Ave. N (910) 617-9792.

Free bicycle & specialty product rentals for New Hanover residents only, 10am-2pm.

Wilmington Ice House 7201 Ogden Business Lane (next to Ogden Park off of Market Street) (910) 686-1987.

Free skate rental only, 1-4pm! Admission $7 per skater and $ if under 5yrs. Offer good to New Hanover residents only!

Wilmington Railroad Museum 505 Nutt Street • (910) 763-2634 Railroad history and heritage are joined by a traveling exhibit of spectacular photographs

by O. Winston Link, 1-4pm. Features for all New Hanover residents’ ages.

Wilmington Trolley Downtown Wilmington • (910) 763-4483 The trolley will offer free shuttle service, 1-4pm, between the participating attractions in the downtown area. This is shuttle service only, not tours.

Wrightsville Beach Museum of History 303 W. Salisbury Street, Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-2569 Visit this 1909 beach cottage and feel what life at the beach was like 100 years ago, 1-5pm. See our model of Wrightsville Beach in 1910 and learn about the trolley system linking town and beach.

Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours and Taxi Banks Channel across from Blockade Runner Resort, Wrightsville Beach (910) 200-4002.

Offered at 2pm and 3pm only, with advance reservations required, folks can enjoy a onehour free ecological tour. Topics include salt marsh function, native birds and barrier island ecology. Space is limited.

For more information on hours of operation for attractions, contact them individually. In case of rain, call attractions to confirm outdoor activities. Also visit www. capefearcoast.com/hometown. encore | march 3 - 9 , 2010 | www.encorepub.com 41

calendar

where to be, what to do in Wilmington and beyond

Events HOBBY GREENHOUSE CLUB 3/6: Annual Hobby Greenhouse Tour. Free, selfguided tour of local greenhouses, including member and non-member greenhouses and commercial and institutional greenhouses.

Tour starts at the New Hanover County Arboretum. 9am-5pm. • 4/9-11, 6/4-5, 9/1011: Hobby Greenhouse Spring Plant Sale in Forest Hills. All plants grown by members; portion of profits go to scholarships for local community college horticulture students. Free. Fri. and Sat. 9am–6pm. www.hobbygreenhouseclub. org or email hobbygreenhouse@aol.com .

NHCS FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION OPEN HOUSE New Hanover County Schools’ Family Life Education Dept will host an open house on Thurs.

3/4, 5-7pm at the Dale K. Spencer Building, 1802 South 15th St. to present the middle-school Family Life Education options. Parents of rising 6th-, 7th- and 8th-grade students who wish to learn about the middle-school Family Life Education programs are invited to stop in to view the two sexuality education curricula: Sex Can Wait and Stepping Stones to Better Living: Responsible Decisions. Teachers will be available to answer questions and assist parents in making a decision

for their child’s 2010-2011 middle school elective class. 910-251-6090.

TIDAL CREEK CO-OP MARCH EVENTS Food Allergies with Cortney Shallow. Wed. 3/3, 6-7pm. Tidal Creek Community Center. Free. Learn about different foods and the reactions that can

3/6: Hobby GreenHouse club

cause, as well as the benefits of the elimination diet. 910-799-2667, www.tidalcreek.coop. Alive at Five. Fri. 3/5 from 5-6:30pm. Tidal Creek Lawn.

Bring your chairs and enjoy live reggae music by Steadfast. Wine tasting, too, all free.

BE A TOURIST IN YOUR HOMETOWN See editorial pages 40-41.

spring is right around the corner—so folks are reprogramming their brains for growing season. The annual Hobby Greenhouse Tour will get underway just in time, too, offering free, self-guided tours of local greenhouses and commercial and institutional greenhouses. The tour begins at the Arboretum on the 6th, and lasts all day, from 9am-5pm. www.hobbygreenhouseclub.org.

WWII VETERANS EXHIBIT World War II veterans and home front workers will greet the public and exhibit memorabilia at the Hannah Block Historic USO during New Hanover County’s annual “Be a Tourist in Your Home Town,” on Sun. 3/7. Also called the Community Arts Center, the building, located at Second and Orange streets, in downtown Wilmington, will hold an open house, public tours and a “World War II History Afternoon” from 12-5pm.

This is the first time the HBHUSO/CAC, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has participated in the event.

The public is also invited to exhibit WWII memorabilia. Registration to participate and admission are free. Doris Ayers: 910796-3293 or Dayers91@aol.com.

GUINESS ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL Downtown Wilmington welcomes two of the most popular cultural events of the year in the

Annual Guinness St. Patrick’s Day Festival and the Friends of the Hibernians 11th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sat. 3/13. Festivities kick off with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 11am: starts off at Red Cross, heads south down N. 2nd St., then down Dock to Water street, and north back up to Red Cross. • 12pm, the Guinness St. Patrick’s Day Festival begins at Riverfront Park, on Water Street, in front of the Federal Building. Fee and open event to all, w/live music, Irish dancers, cultural vendors, and food and beer sales. Feat.

Wilmington Police Pipes & Drums band, The Blarney Broughs, The Molly Malones, Out on the Ocean, and The Malones. Rain or shien—in event of rain, festival will be moved to underneath the Water Street Deck, across from Hilton Hotel.

910-686-5498, Steveandconniemc@aol.com CAPE FEAR MATERNITY AND BABY EXPO Coastline Conference & Event Center501 Nutt St. Sat. 3/13 9am-4pm. $5 Adult admission, Kids 12 and under free. 60 Exhibitors expected!

Enter your baby in the Baby Crawl-A-Thon to win prizes throughout the day. Shopping, Free Samples, Clothing, Photographers, Toys, Nursery Furnishings, Gifts for Babies & Moms, Food, Door Prizes, Demonstrations, Pre/Post Natal Fitness, Kids Corner, Dads Lounge, Health & Community Services and much, much more! “The ultimate source for couples expecting a baby or families with young children.” 910-617-8666, www. maternityandbabyexpo.com.

UNCW PRESENTS ARTS IN ACTION 3/19, Selected Shorts: A Celebration of the Short Story, the signature literary program of New York’s Symphony Space broadcast live ea. wk. through National Public Radio, is performed live on the UNCW stage. Hosted by David Rakoff, Selected Shorts presents fine actors reading classic and bold new short fiction. • 3/26: Chris Potter’s Underground presents an exciting jazz concert.

Equally adept on soprano, alto or tenor saxophone, the Grammy-nominated Potter has carved out a singular niche in an all too competitive field. 962.3500 or 800-732-3643, 10am-6pm, Mon-Fri. EMPTY BOWLS 3/19: Local community members will come together and share a meal of delicious soup and bread at the Empty Bowls event. Area potters and restaurants will give of their time and resources to help fight hunger in our community. Community members will purchase tickets for a meal of delicious soup and bread. Local restaurants will be making the soup and local potters will be creating ceramic bowls. Each ticket holder will select a bowl and will take it home as a reminder of the meal’s intent to fight hunger. Proceeds go toward helping both Good Shepherd Center and Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard. Good Shepherd Center works to feed the hungry and shelter the homeless in the Wilmington community, while Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard focuses on providing non-perishable emergency food to the hungry in the area. (910) 763-4424 x101, dj.goodshepherd@ gmail.com or goodshepherdwilmington.org

Charity/Fund-raisers LUMP TO LAUGHTER AT PT’S Eat at P.T.’s Olda Fashioned Grille, 1437 Military Cutoff Rd. on Tues. 3/9 and help support Lump to Laughter. 10 percent of all sales on 3/9 will be donated to Lump to Laughter’s Angel Fund.

Designed to offer financial assistance to women in need while in treatment for breast cancer.

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WOMEN OF HOPE Come find out how you can provide HOPE to women with cancer and their families and also how to promote community education and awareness of their needs, in a fun and easy way. We can hardly

wait to share with you about The “Faces of Hope” wall, Girls Night, feat. the “Art of Women’s Cancers” exhibit, The Cupcake Cure (samples available), Hope and Support Opportunities. Join us on Tues. evening, 3/9 at 6:30pm First Baptist Activity Center

by Alderman Elem. School, 1939 Independence Blvd. RSVP by 3/4 to Joy at rmwade1@bellsouth. net so that we have enough materials, seating, and refreshments for you.

NHMC BLOOD DRIVES New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Cape Fear Hospital are hosting Community Blood Drives on 3/10, 10:30am-3pm, Open to the public. 343-2545 or for Cape Fear Hospital, Nancy Kafina at 452-8110. www. membersforlife.org/cbsr/schedule.

WOMEN ON THE MOVE LUNCHEON Women on the Move Luncheon Invites Local Businesses as Sponsors for National Multiple Sclerosis Society, scheduled for 3/11 at The Eastern North Carolina Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Event will begin with a networking reception at 11:30 am at the Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort on Wrightsville Beach.Tickets $75 each.www. nationalMSsociety.org/nct or call Bethany Owenby at (919) 792-1004.

BOOKS AND BLING Fri. 3/12, 6-9:30pm. Hampton Inn and Suites, Landfall, 1989 Eastwood Rd. behind Port City Chop House. Try on a little Bling, meet Celia Rivenbark and Give Back! Silpada Jewelry Rep has agreed to donate all profit from the evenings sales to be split between Lump to Laughter and JDRF. Meet and Greet and Bling Shop from 6-9:30pm.

Meet Celia Rivenbark 7:30-8:30pm. Secure your place in line to meet Celia with your Silpada order or cash donation of $25 or more. Spend $100 or more and be entered into a drawing to win 50 percent off your Silpada order. Benefit will support Lump to Laughter’s Angel Fund that provides financial assistance to women in need during treatment for breast cancer and JDRF’s Artificial Pancreas Project. 910-617-4455.

HOME TOUR VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Home Tour spotlights beautiful properties around Wilmington, exploring a range of styles and periods. Volunteers are needed to give our visitors the best experience possible. Two shifts available on Sat, 12:45-3:30pm and 3:15-6pm, or Sun., 12:45pm-3pm or 2:45-5pm. Docents and House Captains needed to take a role and make this event succeed. aimee@historicwilmington.org or call (910) 762-2511.

NC WRITERS NETWORK Food for Thought: 1st and 3rd Sun, 3-5pm, Pomegranate Books. Pomegranate Books is continuing the wildly successful food drive known as “Food for Thought,” sponsored by Grandmothers for Peace. Bring a canned good or nonperishable food item and choose free books (publishers’ advanced copies)! We have fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books available. All food is delivered to local food banks.

Theatre/Auditions MULLIGAN’S WAKE DINNER THEATER Mulligan’s Wake is an interactive, portable dinner theater. Dress up or down for the funeral and be prepared upon arrival to meet a crazy Irish-Catholic family who has all gathered for a final, over-thetop farewell celebration. Audience members can interact with the cast, join in or sit back and relax.

There will be a traditional dinner and then a wake to honor the memory of dear ol’ Rory. This Irish celebration is full of drinking, toasting, dancing and singing - a hilarious form of entertainment full of twists and turns that will leave you and your friends in stitches. They put the “fun” in funeral!

RSVP: 910-232-6611 or porchtheatre.com BROADWAY MUSICAL 13 Thalian Association Children’s Theater (TACT) presents the Broadway Musical 13, directed

by David T. Loudermilk with music direction by Denice Bradley and Rebecca Rockow, runs for four performances only 3/5-7 at the Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage, 120 S. 2nd St. in historic downtown Wilmington. Performances are Fri. & Sat. at 7pm and Sat. & Sun. at 3pm. Tickets are $10, general

admission at the door.

ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee: 3/5-7.

Music and Lyrics By: William Finn, Director: Mike O’Neil, Music Director: Chiaki Ito. Tickets: $20, $18 & $15, Students/Senior: $2 off. City Stage / Level 5: 910-342-0272 ROBIN HOOD “THE LEGEND BEGINS” Journey Productions presents Robin Hood “the

COMING SOON: PORT CITY’S TOP COMIC

Go ahead and prepare all those funny lines, skits, self-prodding conversations that make for great standup. Port City’s Comic is coming to town this May. They’ll have premliminary rounds on the 14-15 and 21-22. Each night, 16 comics will perform but only four will advance to the finals at City Stage on the 27th. For details, e-mail supercatmatt@gmail.com. legend begins” The cleverly scripted re-telling of the medieval legend written for audiences young and old, by Zach Hanner. There’s plenty of swashbuckling, romance, comedy, music and dance. The Upper Room 1871 in historic Tileston School corner of 5th & Ann St. 3/4-5, 8pm. Student tickets $6, Adults $8. Thurs. special admission $5.

910 399-2878 or journeywilm@yahoo.com THE ODD COUPLE The Odd Couple (Female Version) By Neil Simon Produced by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. New York City Fri. 3/5-6 and 3/12-13 at 8pm; Sun. 3/7 and 3/14 at 3pm. Sneads Ferry Community Center, 126 Park Lane. Tickets are $12 at the door. Doors open 45 minutes before curtain.

To reserve seats for parties of 10 or more. 910327-2798. Play is intended for an adult audience and may contain adult language and situations. www.sneadsferrycommunitytheatre.com DESSERT THEATER Dessert Theater, an afternoon of bite-sized entertainment and sweet treats, returns to the New Hanover County Senior Resource Center on four Friday afternoons in March. Enjoy coffee, dessert and two comedies by award-winning playwright Kathryn Martin at ea. 2pm performance. $8 per person. Seating is limited and reservations are required. 910-398-7871.

YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU Thalian Association presents the Pulitzer Prizewinning comedy You Can’t Take It With You by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman. The production, directed by Tom Briggs, runs 3/18-28 at the Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage, 120 S. 2nd St. Thurs., Fri. and Sat. at 8pm and Sun. at 3pm. $20 with senior, student and group discounts. For tickets call 910/251-1778 or online at etix.com.

SELECTED SHORTS The popular public radio series “Selected Shorts: A Celebration of the Short Story” comes to the UNCW stage on Fri. 3/19 at 8pm in Kenan Auditorium.

The signature literary program of New York’s Symphony Space, Selected Shorts offers some of the finest actors of the American theatre reading contemporary and classic short fiction. Acclaimed actors Russell Joel Brown, Patricia Kalember and David Rakoff will read three stories by Southern writers about life in the South.Tickets to this special presentation are free and seating is general admission. Kenan Box Office 910.962.3500, www. uncw.edu/presents. Box office hours are 12-6pm, Mon.-Fri. and one hour prior to the event.

Comedy CABINEER’S PROMOTIONS Cabineer’s Promotions’ $10 sweepstakes entry.

Winner will get a night on the town (hotel for choice of 3 cities), $50 travel expense and 2 tickets to a comedy show. Drawing held 3/6, a 3 Diva’s and Nick Comedy Show. Takes place at Wilmington Sportsmen’s Club, 111 Castle St. Not needed to be present to win. 910-343-8977. www.etix.com. daddycabineers@aol.com PORT CITY’S TOP COMIC 2010 Nutt Street Comedy Room and Comedy by the Beach present, the third annual Port City’s Top Comic stand-up comedy contest and comedian networking event. Each comedian will be given between five to seven minutes to perform on 5/14,15, 21 or 22. These are the dates for the preliminary rounds of Port City’s Top Comic held at Nutt Street Comedy Room. Each of these nights 16 comics will perform and only 4 will advance to the Semi-Finals on 5/26 at City Stage at Level 5. Of the 16 that perform at the Semi-Finals, 8 will advance to the finals on 5/27 at City Stage. Only one comic will emerge as Port City’s Top Comic. This comedian will win a trophy for being the top comic along with other prizes that will be announced via email in the coming weeks. supercatmatt@gmail.com.

NUTT ST. COMEDY ROOM Tuesdays and Wed. Improv with the “Nutt House” troupe ($5 cover and $1 Front St draft beer), Thursdays Open Mic Stand-up, Fridays and Saturdays Nationally Touring Comedians. All shows 9pm, 8pm doors. 255 N. Front Str. 910251-7881

Music/Concerts ANDREW LITTON AND NC SYMPHONY Majesty is the order of the evening when acclaimed guest conductor Andrew Litton leads the North Carolina Symphony in Gustav Holst’s masterwork, The Planets, 3/4-6. Soloist William Wolfram also commands the stage with a virtuoso rendering of Grieg’s Piano Concerto, while Vaughan Williams’s Overture to The Wasps rounds out a powerhouse symphonic lineup. The concert takes place first at Memorial Hall on the campus of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Thurs. 3/4. Two weekend performances follow at Meymandi Concert Hall in downtown Raleigh’s Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Friday and Saturday, March 5-6. All concerts begin at 8pm.

Regular tickets range from $30 to $45. Meymandi Concert Hall is located in the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. South St., Raleigh, NC 27601. Memorial Hall is located on the campus of the UNC, Chapel Hill, on E. Cameron Ave, Chapel Hill, NC 27514.ncsymphony.org, 919.733.2750.

YOUTH ORCHESTRA SPRING MATINEE Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestra continues its eighth season at Kenan Auditorium on the UNCW campus with a spring matinee concert for young people and their families on Sun. 3/7 at 4pm. The Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Steven Errante, will be performing Beethoven’s neglected gem King Stephan Overture, Glinka’s thrilling Russian showpiece Overture to Russlan and Ludmilla, and Dvorak’s First Movement from Symphony No. 9 (“From the New World”). Tickets are $5 for adults, free for youth 17 and under, and will be available at Kenan Auditorium beginning one hour prior to the concert. www.wilmingtonsymphony.org/ WILMINGTON CHORAL SOCIETY Join the Wilmington Choral Society for its spring concert, “Made in the USA,” featuring traditional spirituals, American folksongs and Hollywood show-tunes. Sat. 3/13 at 7pm at Roland-Grise Auditorium, 4412 Lake Ave. Tickets available at the door, or call 910-254-1044 for reservations.

General Admission $12 ,seniors 60+ $10, children under 12 free.On 5/29 at 7pm, the Wilmington Choral Society will perform John Rutter’s Magnificat, a tremendous large-scale work for both chorus and orchestra, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1403 Market St. Tickets are free and available at the door, or 910-254-1044 for reservations. Sponsorship opportunities are available: a fully tax-deductible donation of $150 provides for one of 18 chamber musicians. 910-

254-1044.

WILMINGTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA On Sat. 3/13, 8pm in Kenan Auditorium, the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra presents “A Tribute to Rodgers & Hammerstein and Andrew Lloyd Webber,” an unforgettable evening of Broadway favorites from Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I and more. Joining the Wilmington Symphony in the featured vocal roles are riches from Wilmington’s own music theatre treasure chest including Sophie Amelkin, Karri Compton, Mary Claire Curran, Steve Gallian, Alex Gazda, Ashley Gladden, Jamey Graves, Dana Harrison, Colby Lewis, David Lorek, Allan Nicosia, Newlin Parker, Chelsea Timmons, Alecia Vanderhaar, John Walters, and Stephanie Williams. Reserved seat tickets are available at the Kenan Auditorium: (910) 962-3500, or www.wilmingtonsymphony.org.

All seats $35.

PROJECT HAITI Project Haiti, a concert benefiting the American Red Cross: Haiti Relief Fund will be Hosted by One I Open at the House of Blues Myrtle Beach on 3/14.

Doors open at 2pm. Join One I Open Sun. 3/14 for an afternoon of live entertainment to benefit American Red Cross: Haiti Relief Fund. From 2-7pm, entertainment by Freedom Street Prison, That’s Cool & Stuff, N’Tranze, Peggy Lynard and One I Open. Greg Rowles will host the event.

Tickets available for pre-purchase at the House of Blues Box Office or available the day of the event. Tickets are $5. All proceeds will benefit Red Cross: Haiti Relief Fund. Contact Bill Hein of One I Open getbill37@yahoo.com Or House of Blues Box Office 843-272-3000.

NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY North Carolina Symphony Takes “A Journey Down the Rhine” with guests Timothy Myers and Kurt Nikkanen, March 18-20. The concerts begin at Memorial Hall on the campus of UNC at Chapel Hill, Thurs. 3/18, followed by two weekend performances at Meymandi Concert Hall in downtown Raleigh’s Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Fri. and Sat.3/19-20. All performances begin at 8pm.Regular tickets range from $30 to $45. Meymandi Concert Hall is located in the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. South St., Raleigh, NC 27601. Memorial Hall is located on E. Cameron Ave, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. ncsymphony.org; 919.733.2750.

CAPE FEAR CHORALE The Cape Fear Chorale will present its 2010 Spring Concert on 3/28 at 4pm at Grace Methodist Church, 401 Grace St. The Chorale, soloists, and 13 instrumentalists will perform F. Joseph Haydn’s The Seven Last Words of Christ. www. capefearchorale.org.

SONG WRITING CONTEST Put together a 30-60 second song or jingle, on a CD and drop it off with an entry form. Submissions through 3/31. Top ten will be asked to perform their submission at The Soapbox where the winner will be selected by Gravity, celebrity judges and the crowd. All entries must be family friendly. Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn and Bowl should be mentioned.

Cash prizes for 1st-3rd.

SAM BUSH BAND Atlantic Rim Entertainment presents Sam bush Band in concert with Missy Raines at Greenfield Lake Ampitheatre 4/17. Tickets are $35, available at www.atlanticrimentertainment.com. 910-3991820 or info@atlanticrimentertainment.com.

Dance SATURDAY EVENING SOCIAL DANCE 3/13 at the New Hanover County Center Ballroom, 2222 S. College Rd., corner of Shipyard Blvd. presented by Azalea Coast USA Dance Chapter #6031. 6:45pm Entry level ballroom dance lesson given by Babs McDance Studio staff.

7:30pm to 10pm Full spectrum of ballroom dancing to recorded music. $10 per person.

Couples and singles welcome. Smoke and alcohol free environment. 910-799-1694 or www. azaleacoastNCUSADance.org THE CIRCLE Free form movement session, Fri., 6-7:30pm at

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Dance Cooperative 118 S. 17th St. $5 donation suggested. albanelved@albanelved.com. No experience needed. www.albanelved.com FIREHOUSE STUDIO BELLY DANCING Bellydance Classes at the Firehouse Pilates Studio, Mon. nights. Private and semi-private, $50 for an hour and a half instruction and $30 a piece for two people for same duration. divyawaters@yahoo. com or 910-620-3566.

CAROLINA SHAG CLUB DJs play favorite beach music and shag tunes every Sat, 8pm to close. $4/members; $6/guests.

Carolina Shag Club, 103 N. Lake Park Blvd.

Carolina Beach, NC 620-4025 76’ERS SQUARE DANCE CLUB Modern Western Style Square Dance. Club meets Thurs. nights at 7pm at the Senior Center for a new workshop on square dancing. Info: 270-1639 WILMINGTON SALSA CLUB Salsa Lessons, 8:30pm, Wed., Garibaldi Night Club, 4418 Market St., Wilmington, NC • 8pm, Fridays, Sywanyk’s Night Club 222 Henderson Ave., Jacksonville, NC. Dawn: (910) 471-6809 DANCE LESSONS AT CAROLINA LOUNGE Tues, 7:30pm, shag lessons with Brad and DJ Lee Pearson. • Fri., 7:30pm, Tango workshop with Paula. 9:30pm, salsa lessons with DJ Lalo.

• Line Dancing lessons with DJ Lee and instructor Barbara Braak 7:30pm. Cover charge $5, lesson free. • Sat., Latin ryhthm. Doors open 9pm. 5001-a Market St, (910) 790-8598

Art PHOTOGRAPHING AMERICA The Art Gallery in the Cultural Arts Building at UNCW will be holding Tom Rankin’s exhibit, Photographing America through 3/31. Tom Rankin is Director of the Center for Documentary Studies and Associate Professor of the Practice of Art and Documentary Studies at Duke University. A photographer, filmmaker, and folklorist, Rankin is formerly Associate Professor of Art and Southern Studies at the University of Mississippi and Chair of the Art Department at Delta State University.

910-962-7958.

MAKING WAVES The Boseman Gallery is transformed into an urban street scene with an interactive audio component. Exhibition is a collaboration among student graffiti artists, student sound artists and creative writers. Graffiti artists tell an urban ‘womb to tomb’ narrative through the use of spray paint and wheat paste applications. Images are paired with sound recordings activated by buttons and a poetic narrative which tells the story. Gallery hours: Mon.-Sat., 10am-8pm. www.uncw.edu/presents, 910-962-7972.

RON CURLEE II The Center for Visual Arts in Greensboro presents A Series of Work on Canvas by Artist Ron Curlee II. Ron Curlee II is an artist who specializes in large abstract art work on canvas, as well as being an accomplished interior designer and published poet.

Display will be open 3/5-3/26, with an opening reception Fri. 3/5 at 6pm. 336-333-7485, www. greensboroart.org.

BOTTEGA ART BAR EXHIBITS: Jazz Rode: A Solo Exhibition, Through 3/7, w/ opening reception on Fri, 1/15, 6-8pm. Designing surf art is just one of this local artists amazing talents—also includes; Intaglio, Lithography, Mixed Media and Painting and will all be displayed in this eclectic exhibit at Bottega Gallery.Start 9pm unless noted; free. • 3/22: Wine Class 6pm. • 3/23: Starving Artist nigh • 3/24: Weekly Wine Tasting 7pm • 3/25: Beer & Cheese Party with host Steven Gibbs • 3/26: 4th Friday Gallery Walk 6pm! Diva Made Exhibition Opening Reception. Jim Ashley performs • 3/29: Open Paint & Create (Bring art in progress & drink wine!) • 3/30: Starving Artist night • 3/31: Weekly Wine Tasting, 7pm. • Sign up for Wine School today, held Mon. 3/22 with host and educator Steve Gibbs. $30 for the class and includes everything, including plenty of tasting! • Bottega is taking submissions for Spring/Summer exhibitions. We are currently looking for works related to domestic pets. 50

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percent of proceeds will go to a charity for animals (yet to be decided). Excepting works in all genres: paint, sculpt, film, mixed media, more. Submit 510 images in jpeg format to bottegaartbar@gmail. com. All mediums accepted. 910.763.3737.

KEYS NEEDED Wabi Sabi Warehouse is currently seeking submissions for a juried exhibition based on ‘keys.’ Symbolic or literal, this theme is wide open for interpretation. We welcome all media, including performance, creative writing and ice sculpture—providing artwork fits through the door and doesn’t attract vermin. The only common denominato ramong selected works is the key. Submissions inspired by the Key Fence installation in downtown Wilmington will be given special consideration. Jurors: Richard Scieford, President, North Carolina Museums Council Bob Unchester, Exhibition Manager, Cameron Art Museum Pam Toll, UNCW., 4/18. Exhibition dates: 5/7-6/12. Selected artists notified by 4/25.

Email questions, comments, and up to 3 jpeg images to: dixonstetler@gmail.com ZIABIRD 3/3-4/15 Niki Hildebrand’s ‘Capturing the Body and Line’ in paintings and glass. Artist Reception Fri. 3/12, 5-7pm at Ziabird. • Get Dressed for the Derby’ Hat Social featuring Joanne Miranda designs 4/1, 6-8pm at Ziabird. 1900 Eastwood Road • 910208-9650.

STUDIO SPACE AVAILABLE Thrive Studios, a new cutting-edge hybrid studio and gallery, has nine artist studio spaces available for rent . Each is 8’x 8’, $200/mo. w/ 1-year lease.

Join our artist collective and let your career thrive!

Gaeten Lowrie: 919-696-4345 or Scott Ehrhart :407-257-5299.

PORT CITY POTTERY & FINE CRAFTS Port City Pottery & Fine Crafts, Cotton Exchange in downtown Wilmington, w/ handmade, one-ofa-kind, 3-D art, crafts and more by jury-selected coastal North Carolina artisans. Open: Mon.-Sat., 10-5:30pm; Sun., 11-4pm. 307 N. Front St./7637111, portcitypottery.com

Museum CAPE FEAR MUSEUM Museum is in the process of renovating its core exhibit space to make room for a new, immersive exhibit experience. EXHIBITS: Land of the Longleaf Pine will open 4/2. • Going to the Movies Exhibit—Experience the history of a century of movie-going in the Lower Cape Fear region; where people went to the movies, how the theater experience has changed over the years, etc. • Conservation Matters—Explore the art and science of artifact conservation; what it is, who does it, and why it matters to museums. Beautifully conserved furniture and other wooden objects from the permanent collection on display.• Cape Fear Treasures: Drink Exhibit—Glimpse a selection of drinking vessels, as you explore treasures from Cape Fear Museum’s collection. From 18th-century bottles, to fancy teapots, to modern-day souvenir mugs,and more! • Discover how to become a volunteer. Opportunities are available in the Museum Store, working with the historic collection, and as an education docent. Open House is held the first Wed., every month. 910-798-4366. • New Hanover County Residents’ Day Sun. 3/7. New Hanover County residents are admitted free to the Museum the first Sunday of every month. Museum is open Sundays from 1-5pm. EVENTS: Winter Jazz: The Bob Russell Quartet Fri. 3/12, 6pm. Pack a picnic, bring your chairs and enjoy evening jazz at the New Hanover County Government Center.

Presented by Cape Fear Museum. Winter Jazz held one Friday a month, Nov-April, 6-8pm in Government Center.Admission free for museum members; $8 for nonmembers. Bring your own chair. Food and drink are encouraged, no glass please. Learning Center: Light & Sound Sat. 3/6, 13, 20 and 27. Why is the sky blue? Explore fun mysteries of light and color and even make an object disappear! What does your own voice sound like? Create a model eardrum and conduct exciting experiments with sound. The Learning Center is open Sat. 10am-4pm. Activities are free with

Museum admission. Appropriate for children ages 5-12. Parental participation is required. • Pi Day Tues. 3/16, 9am-2pm. This day-long extravaganza of high-energy, hands-on, facilitated mathematics activities will excite and motivate learners of all ages. Discover the Meaning of Pi. Sort through the Puzzle Playground. Build towers with Shape

3/3: NIKI HILDEBRAND ART OPENING

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. 126 S. Third St. Adults $8, children $4. 762-0492. www.latimerhouse.org WILMINGTON RAILROAD MUSEUM Explore railroad history and heritage, especially of the Atlantic Coast Line, headquartered in Wilmington for more than 130 years.

Interests and activities for all ages including historical exhibits, full-size steam engine and rolling stock, lively children’s area, and spectacular scale models. Housed in an original 1882 freight warehouse, facilities are fully accessible and on one level. Groups receive special guided tours.

Facilities can also be booked for meetings or mixers, accommodating groups of up to 150. Admission only $6 for adults, $5 for seniors/military, $3 for children 2-12, and free under age 2. Located at the north end of downtown at 505 Nutt St. 910-763-2634 or www.wrrm.org.

Ziabird Studio on Eastwood Road will be holding an art opening for a lovely Wilmington artits, Niki Hildebrand. Hildebrand’s paintings and even glass sculptures are whimsical, colorful and simply captivating. Check out her latest works during the opening of ‘Capturing the Body and Line.’ For more information, call the studio at (910) 208-9650.

Makers. Become an origami master when you Fold It! Pi Day is appropriate for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. • Conservation Workshop: Photos & Paper Sat. 3/27, 9am-12pm. Get tips on how to preserve your family treasures the way the Museum preserves theirs. Work with Museum Curator Barbara Rowe to explore the basics of caring for your letters, newspapers and photos.

Learn to deacidify and encapsulate a document.

Work with and take home your own photo and paper conservation starter kit. Workshop is $40 per member; $50 per nonmember. One of a three part conservation workshop and lecture series.

Bundle with April’s workshop and May’s lecture for a discounted price. Space limited. Prereg. required. www.capefearmuseum.com • 814 Market Street (910) 798-4370 HIDDEN BATTLESHIP Behind the Scenes at the Battleship NC Hidden Battleship, 3/13 8:30am-12:30pm and 1:305:30pm—Unique, behind-the-scenes tour of un-restored areas of the Battleship. The four-hour tour consists of small groups with guides. Guests explore the bow (officers’ country and boatswain locker), third deck (Radio II, brig, after gyro, storage rooms, ammunition handling, Engineer’s office, torpedo area), engine room #3, the cold storage compartments, and up inside the fire control tower to the top of the ship. The Azalea Coast Radio Club will be in Radio II to explain their work on the ship’s radio transmitters.Ticket sales stop one hour before closing. www.battleshipnc.com.

BELLAMY MANSION MUSEUM Mondays at the Mansion. Star News Columnist Susan Hart presents, “The Gardens of Hever Castle: Anne Boleyn’s Childhood Home.” Mon, 3/15, 11am, Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market St.Tickets: $10 each, includes lunch. 910251-3700 x104. • African-American History Day. 3/27, 10am- 4pm. Experience the domestic life of the mansion from a 19th century perspective.

The Bellamy’s household included eleven family members and nine enslaved African-Americans who lived on the site and worked throughout the house. Learn about their lives as well as those of the free blacks and hired slave artisans who built this grand house, the carriage house and the slave quarters. Admission: $10 for adults, $4 for children 5-12, free children under 5. Students with ID $3 for this event only. 503 Market St. 910-251-3700 CAPE FEAR SERPENTARIUM Cool down in front of “Anaconda Splash” exhibit in the indoor tropical jungle. See, photograph and even touch rare animals assembled from all over the planet in beautiful simulations of their natural environments. Meet colorful jungle birds, crocodiles, king cobras, black mambas and many more. Open from 11am-5pm, Sat. from 11am-6pm. 20 Orange Street at Front Street on historic downtown riverwalk. (910) 762-1669 or www.capefearserpentarium.com.

LATIMER HOUSE

CAMERON ART MUSEUM EXHIBITS: Toying with Art is an exhibition of toys designed and fabricated by more than 50 artists. Remains open through 3/28.

Brings together several different kinds of toys: games, robots, plush toys, puppets and action figures all come together in this exciting exhibition. • Kaleidoscope: Changing Views of the Permanent Collection. Feat. art from the Cameron Art Museum’s collection: paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, photographs, furniture, decorative arts, from the museum’s permanent collection. Configuration will change through the year as individual works are rotated. • 2/19-6/20: Recollection: The Past is the Present: Visual and thematic references of the past while being rooted firmly in the present connects the art work of Amalia Amaki, Lillian Blades and Beverly Buchanan to the historical-tinged quilts by African American women in the exhibition. Admission charge. • EVENTS: Movement Lab w/Karola Luttringhaus, Sun., 3/28 and 5/9, 3-4:30pm. Suggested Cost: $15 cash and checks only, checks payable to Alban Elved Dance Company. Focuses on physical freedom and creativity; includes partner work, such as contact improvisation, story-based movement creation, movement analysis, spatial relationships, basic release work, and more. Appropriate for all body types and experience levels; attend all labs, several or just one lab. Bring layers of clothing for various activity levels. Schedule: www.dynamicbody.net/workshops.html. • Yoga: Every Tues. at 6pm and Thurs. at 12pm; $5/members; $8/nonmembers. Exercises to enhance relaxation, breath control and meditation with Sara Jo Nelson. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat. Beginners welcome. • Tai Chi, Wed. 12pm. $5/members, $8/non-members. A slow, meditative form of exercise designed for relaxation, balance and health taught by Martha Gregory. Wear comfortable clothing. Beginners welcome • South 17th Str. and Independence Blvd. Regular museum hours: Tues/ Wed/Thurs/Fri.: 11am-2pm, Saturday and Sunday: 11am-5m. Members free;$8 non-members; $5 Students with valid student ID card; $3 Children age 2 -12 www.cameronartmuseum.com or (910)395-5999.

NC AQUARIUM EVENTS: Aquarist Apprentice, Behind the Scenes, Breakfast with the Fishes, Dinner with the Fishes, and more programs monthly! Summer camps and after-school programs available. U.S. 421, less than a mile from the Ft. Fisher ferry terminal.

Hours: 9am-5pm daily. Admission: $8 adults; $7 seniors; $6 ages 6-17. Free for children under 6; registered groups of N.C. school children, and NC Aquarium Society members. ncaquariums.com.

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM The 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 Wrightsville Beach. 303 West Salisbury Street. wbmuseum.com.

BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE 18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmington’s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th and 19th century decor and gardens. Colonial life is experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen-building and courtyard. 3rd and Market streets.

Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm.

Admission rqd. (910) 762-0570. www. burgwinwrighthouse.com.

Holly Tree Elementary School is preparing to host a day at the races. The Cardinal Strut - first annual Holly Tree Elementary Kid’s Marathon, 1.2 Mile Fun Run and 5k race will be held on Sat. 3/6. Starting line at Holly Tree Elementary, located at 3010 Web Trace. The day’s activities will be held in honor of a former Holly Tree student, Jakob “Jake” Hatton, who lost a courageous battle to cancer in the fall of 2009. Opportunities for all ages. Students at Holly Tree have participated in a marathon running program throughout this year, and will have completed 25 miles prior to the marathon finish on 3/6. On race day, the marathon club kids will run the last 1.2 miles of a marathon together. • Holly Tree PTA will also be hosting a 5k race, which will have a certified course and will be officially timed.

Awards given to the top three male and female finishers in each age group and overall male and female finishers. www.wilmingtonroadrunners. org, www.nhcs.net/htree/. Entry fee is $20 for the 5k and $10 for the 1.2 mile fun run. Race day registration will be available from 7-7:30am. All proceeds raised through the Cardinal Strut will benefit the Holly Tree Elementary PTA and the Jakob Hatton Memorial Field Project at Holly Tree.

Leanne LeFave at (910) 790-2250 or Renee Griffin at reneegriffin@ec.rr.com.

Sports/Recreation BIRDING TRAIL HIKES NC has diversity of bird habitats and over 440 bird species throughout the year, making it a great place hike bird trails.

Each hike is apx. 2 miles; transportation from Halyburton Park included. • 3/18, Brunswick Town, 8am-noon, $10 • 4/15: Holly Shelter Gameland Greentree Impoundment, 8am-noon, $10/person. www.halyburtonpark.com BIRD TOURS 100-acre lake within a larger city park is one of the great birding destinations of the Southeast and a featured portion of the NC Birding Trail. See Wigeon, Gadwall, Cormorants and Egrets roost in and around the Bald Cypress, and more! Traditionalists walk their way the 5 miles around the lake, guidebook in hand. Or do a guided 1-hour tour on the lake itself comfortably seated in River Watch’s electric canoe. Led by trained and experienced birders, River Watch offers birding tours of aboard an electric boat that can fit 6 passengers comfortably.

Tours on Wed/Thurs/Sundays through March, weather permitting, or by special app. The onehour tours leave the dock at 10am, 11am, noon and 1pm with a special “roosting hour” tour leaving apprx 3:30pm. Group prices available; RSVP recommended. $15/person. 910-762-5606 or 910-200-4002.

YMCA SWIM LESSONS YMCA Swim Lesson Program is a nationally recognized program taught by YMCA trained instructors. Weekday and weekend offerings. The winter session runs through 3/31. Did you know that modern swim instruction was invented at the YMCA? Maybe that’s why so many people have learned to swim at the Y, and continue to come back to enjoy our outstanding facilities. National YMCA Aquatics programs are designed to teach personal water safety, stroke development, rescue and personal growth skills to children. Our program is divided by age and skill levels. Aquatics Director Joe Herzberg: 251-9622 ext 254 or joe.herzberg@ wilmingtonfamilyymca.org.

ISAAC BEAR GOLF CLASSIC Isaac Bear Early College High School is sponsoring the First Annual Golf Classic on 4/17 at Magnolia Greens. Awards and prizes are available. Limited space and Sponsorships available. Fees are only $85 per player or $340 per team, which includes 2 carts, green fees, lunch, BBQ dinner, drinks and goody bags for all players. A Silent Auction will also be held on-site. Proceeds benefit high school students who are attending Summer Camps and Leadership Programs. Call Erik Bron at 350-1387 ext. 200 to reserve your cart.

GOOD SHEPHERD GOLF TOURNEY Local golfers will come together and play in the 7th annual Good Shepherd Center Golf Tournament to benefit the homeless, Mon., 4/19, at Nicklaus Course, Country Club of Landfall. All proceeds benefit Good Shepherd’s work with the hungry and homeless. Serve as an Event Sponsor or a Team/Individual Champion. Independent golfers/ teams needed: $225 for single entry or $800 for a foursome. However, this year we encourage you to be a Team or Individual Champion and seek individual sponsors for your Team with the goal of raising $1600 per team, or $450 as an Individual Champion. Scott Litten: 763-4424, x113 or gscresources@bellsouth.net.

MARITIME MUSEUM GOLF CLASSIC Two charity golf tournaments to help raise funds for the move and renovation of the NC Maritime

15TH ANNUAL CHILDREN’S MARKET Sponsered by MOPS - Mothers of PreschoolersSat. 3/13, 8:30am-12pm. Schwartz Center, 610 N. Front St. Gently used and new children’ clothings, toys, equipment, furniture, books and maternity items.

There will also be unique finds and pampering products available. Admission cost $3. Please bring exact change! Also fantastic prizes to win.

Raffle tickets: $1 each. No strollers, please.

Museum to Ft. Johnston in Southport NC. Members Club at St. James Plantation, 4/22 and 28, 11am shotgun. www.friendsncmmsouthport.org.

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH PARKS & REC Beginner shag lessons on Sun. No partner needed. • Beginner II Bridge Lessons, Thurs, 10am-noon, 3/11-4/8 Intermediate II Bridge Lessons, Thurs, 12:30pm–2:30pm. 3/11-4/8 • Registering for group tennis lessons, adult, youth, and tots. Classes meet Mon/Wed, at tennis courts at Wrightsville Beach Park. Adult, Youth ages 9-12, and Tots ages 6-8. • Yoga: Tuesd/Wed, 6:30pm. • Pilates. Mon/Wed/Frid, 10:15-11:15am. Beginner Pilates on Tues/Thurs, 7:30-8:15am. • Low Impact Aerobics. Mon/Wed/Fri, 8-9am and 9-10am. All ages welcome, catered toward ages 60+. • Tone & Stretch. Tues/Thurs, 8:30-9:15am. All ages welcome, catered toward ages 60+. • Boot Camp fitness class meets Tues/Thurs, 6-7am. • Cape Fear Cotillion—lessons in ballroom and popular dance along with etiquette and social skills! Thurs. afternoons, 4/8-5/6, 3-7 and 8-12 years old. • Performance Club—structured theater games, kids can exercise their imagination and have fun by performing. Tues. afternoons, through 3/23. Grades K-2nd and 3rd-5th. • Adult Co-ed Softball League.

Reg. ends 3/19 or when the league becomes full. Games are played on Sat/Sun 3/27-28. All classes meet in the Fran Russ Rec Ctr. 910-2567925; pre-reg rqd. Wrightsville Beach Park

Film CINEMATIQUE Cinematique of Wilmington, a series of classic, foreign and notable films co-sponsored by WHQR and Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Inc., proudly announces its upcoming slate of films. Admission: $7. All films are screened in Historic Thalian Hall. • 3/3-7: Red Cliff—Director John Woo has been described as having a choreographer’s soul. In this, the most expensive Asian film ever made, he retells the classic story “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” about the birth of modern China in the third century. International star Tony Leung and Takeshi Kaneshiro provide solid characterizations and the byplay between them is as intriguing as the battle scenes. Mandarin w/English subtitles. Rates R; 148 minutes.

WE FEST ACCEPTING FILM SUBMISSIONS The Wilmington Exchange Festival XIV (We Fest) is currently accepting film submissions for this years event. The deadline is 5/1 for all submissions.

We fest is scheduled 5/27-31 at the Soapbox Laundrolounge. The festival begins at 3pm every day. All entries must be in .mov or .avi format on a DATA dvd or HARDDRIVE. Mail to: Attn We Fest Film: 4905 Brenton Ct, Wilmington, NC 28412 joevideos@yahoo.com.

CUCALORUS’ EVENING AT THE OSCARS Cucalorus, amed one of the Top Ten Film Festivals in the United States by the Brooks Institute, will host an “Evening at the Oscars,” 3/7, at Screen Gems Studios in Wilmington, which will feature a live broadcast of the Academy Awards alongside food, drink, and a chance to socialize with Wilmington’s red carpet personalities. Entertaining interludes from some of Wilmington’s most celebrated talents punctuate an evening of creative celebration: Jonathan Guggenheim, Bibis Ellison, Cullen Moss, Matt Malloy, Sandy Vaughan and other surprises. www.cucalorus.org or 910-343-5995 to RSVP. 9TH ANNUAL NC BLACK FILM FESTIVAL The NC Black Film Festival is a 4-day juried and invitational competition & screening of independent films by African-American filmmakers with guest artists, panel discussions, workshops, and more.

Genres include features, shorts, animation, and documentary films. Sponsored by the Black Arts Alliance. Admission charge. CAM, Wilmington.

910-612-7832; www.blackartsalliance.org; www. cameronartmuseum.com LUNAFEST 9th Annual National Touring Film Festival Lunafest: Short Films By, For, About Women, Lunafest, the fund-raising film festival dedicated to promoting awareness about women’s issues, highlighting women filmmakers, and bringing women together in their communities, will be hosted by Luna Moms Club Powered by Stroller Strides at Brown Coat Pub & Theatre, 111 Grace St. on 3/26-27 AT 8pm.

This unique film festival highlights women as leaders in society, illustrated through nine short films by women filmmakers. The films range from animation to fictional drama, and cover topics such as women’s health, motherhood, body image, sexuality, cultural diversity, and breaking barriers. All proceeds from LUNAFEST will benefit the Breast Cancer Fund. $20 Advance/$25 at the Door includes dinner from Blue Plate. Available to purchase at Brown Coat Pub & Theatre. 800-6916154.

Kids Stuff CARDINAL STRUT

HALYBURTON PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS Nature programs for preschoolers, ages 2-5: Camouflage in Nature, Mon/Tues, 3/15-16, 1011am • Signs of Spring, Mon/Tues, 3/29-30, 10-11am. Cost for all: $3/child; pre-ref rqd. 4099 S. 17th St. (910) 341-0075.

PANANCEA ADVENTURES CAMP Panacea Adventures’ “Let It Go” Program Offers Adventure Therapy for Obese Youth in SENC. Wilderness therapy develops self confidence, while fostering weight loss. “Let it Go” merges multiple therapeutic models with a thorough nutritional curriculum to achieve improved mental and physical health for youth at risk of becoming obese.

First program hosts eight children, ages 13 to 17, and will begin in late April, lasting for six months with periodic wilderness adventures and weekly group meetings, led by professional wilderness guides (certified in wilderness medicine) and a licensed therapist, and will include sea kayaking, surfing, white water rafting, rock climbing and hiking. In-town sessions will focus on physical training and family nutrition with each discussion led by a registered dietitian, therapist and physical trainer. Cost: $6,200 per child (includes weekly group/family counseling and nutrition classes) and the organization is seeking grants, contributions and sponsors so that no child is refused based on an inability to pay.

Lectures/Readings GEORGE BISHOP READING UNCW alumnus George “Beau” Bishop will read from his debut novel Letter to My Daughter at 7pm, Wed. 3/3 in Kenan Hall 1111. Bishop is the author of the novel Letter to My Daughter. Written as a letter from a mother, Laura, to her runaway teenage daughter, Liz, Bishop’s debut captures a sense of time and place with a distinct and inviting voice. Reception sponsored by the department and book signing sponsored by Pomegranate Books will follow reading. Contact the Department of Creative Writing at 910-962-7063.

ART CHANSKY Best selling author and sportswriter Art Chansky will be signing and reading from his new fifth book Light Blue Reign: How a City Slicker, a Quiet Kansan, and a Mountain Man Built College Basketball’s Longest-Lasting Dynasty on Thurs.

3/4 at 7pm at Barnes & Noble located at Mayfaire Center, 850 Inspiration Drive. This reading is open and free to the public. 910-509-1880.

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CAL THOMAS Tues. 3/9, 12pm. Warwick Center, UNCW. $35.

Join the Locke Foundation for an exciting talk and book signing with one of America’s most respected journalists, Cal Thomas. His twiceweekly column appears in over 500 newspapers worldwide, making him Americas most widely read syndicated columnist. He also writes a USA Today feature Common Ground with Democratic political consultant Bob Beckel. Thomas has authored 10 books, including his latest book, Common Ground: How to Stop the Partisan War That Is Destroying America, co-authored with Bob Beckel. www. johnlocke.org/events/event.html?id=804 JOINT ECONOMIC GROWTH SUMMIT Weekend tourists are turning into lifetime residents, bringing $30 billion annually to the economy in the Carolinas. UNCW and Coastal Carolina University team up to co-host a Joint Economic Growth Summit to explore the lasting benefits of tourism and the phenomenon of the “Turbo-Tourist.” Tues, 3/9, 8am-12pm, in the Burney Center on the UNCW campus. Participants will hear updates on national, state and local economic activity from university faculty members Woody Hall and Don Schunk. Keynote speaker Patrick Mason, cofounder of the Center for Carolina Living, talks of tourism and in-migration industries, how they’re economically linked and the economic impact of those industries. A panel of local tourism experts examine the current state of and the outlook for tourism in southeastern NC and northeastern SC. $35 for an individual registration or $240 for a table of eight. Breakfast included in reg. fee. www.csb. uncw.edu/cbes. Preregi. deadline: 3/5. Onsite registration available day of the event.

POMEGRANATE BOOKS MARCH EVENTS First Wives’ Club meets first Wed. 3/3 at 7pm to discuss their book choice and to network. Remember, Food for Thought-the highly successful canned food drive sponsored by Grandmothers for Peace, accepts canned goods and non-perishable food items on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month. Many people have brought fantastic products for the local food banks, and we’ve given out hundreds of free ARCS (advanced readers’ copies) of such fantastic authors as Wally Lamb and Kate Morton. Let’s keep this great program going!On Sun. 3/7 at 3p, we’re very excited to bring customer favorite David D. Hume back to Pomegranate Books, for a special evening of literature, art, and Italy. David’s magnificent watercolors will be on display and available for purchase with this event.In March, Pomegranate Books also participates in the Friendship Bridge Annual Event & Information Fair, our annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration and Sale, and the second annual Tea for Two...Million - Global Tea Party Movement. Don’t mistake this Tea Party for the others you’ve been hearing about on the news. This movement is about peace and dialogues developing between people and spreading around the world.

Pomegranate Books 4418 Park Ave. 910-452-1107. www.pombooks.net.

Classes LOIS DEWITT MARCH ART CLASSES Acrylic Painting, Mon. 3/8–29, 3-5pm. Learn basic acrylic painting skills and techniques: color mixing, brushwork, gradations, light and shadow and basic drawing. • Collage, Tues., 3/9–30, 11am1pm Learn collage skills and techniques using found papers and materials. • Oil Pastels, Tues., 3/9–30, 3-5pm Explore the vibrant colors of oil pastels: learn basic skills of shading, color overlay, blending, light and shadow. • Water Color, Wed., 3/10–31, 11am-1pm .Learn basic watercolor skills: mixing and blending colors, light and shadow, wet and dry brush techniques and basic drawing skills.

• Drawing, Wedn, 3/10–31, 3-5pm. Learn drawing basics: line, shading, composition and how to draw what you see. • Drawing, Sat, 3/6–27, 11am-1pm.

Learn drawing basics: line, shading, composition and how to draw what you see • Acrylic Painting, Sat, 3/6–27, 3-5pm. Learn basic acrylic painting skills and techniques: color mixing, brushwork, gradations, light and shadow and basic drawing. All classes: $60/4 wks; maximum 4 students. Material lists available. Lois Dewitt: loislight@bellsouth.net. www.free-online-art-classes.com

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POPLAR GROVE Classes: Pilates, Mon. 4:30-5:30pm • Colored Pencil Drawing, Wed. 3/10 & 3/17 6:30-8pm. $30 • Quilt Square, Wed. 2/24 6:30-8pm. $30 • Glass Bead Making, Sat. 3/13, 3/20, 4/10, 4/24, 5/8, 5/29 11am-4:30pm. $175. 18 and up. • Wire Wrap Beading, third Wed. of each month 11am12pm & Mon. 3/29, 4/26, 5/17, 6/21 6-7:30pm. $35 • Bracelet Making, first Wed. of each month 11am-12pm & Mon. 3/15, 4/12, 5/3, 6/7 6-7:30pm. $50. • Rug Hooking, 3-week class 3/15-29 Mon. 10am-12pm. $50. • One Stroke Painting, 4-week class 3/4-25, 4/1-22, 4/29-5/20 Thurs. 6-8pm. $60.

• Zentangle Art & Design, 4-week class 3/16-4/6 Tues. 10am-12pm. • Tae Kwon-Do, Tues. & Thurs.

6-7pm. $75/month. • Self Defense for Adults, Wed. 1-2:15pm, 5:45-7pm. $40/4 classes. • 910-6869518 ext. 26, www.poplargrove.com

ENGLISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS Every Tuesday and Thursday at 9am. The ESOL group is sponsored by the Cape Fear Literacy Council and teaches English to Spanish speakers.

Arwen Parris: 910-509-1464.

HOW TO GET YOUR LEGISLATOR TO LISTEN The League of Women Voters of Lower Cape Fear will present a free workshop to help all interested citizens effectively express their opinions to their legislators. The workshop will fully explain how to write a letter or email or to talk with the legislator by phone or in person. Learning what information you should include, how to emphasize why the issue is important to you and the way to present your viewpoint will be discussed . Leading this workshop will be board members Carole Ellis and Laurie Goldwasser with NC Representative Carolyn Justice also offering suggestions from a legislator’s viewpoint. The civics workshop is entitled “How to Get Your Legislator to Listen” and will be presented on Tues. 3/16 from 6:30-8pm at the Children’s Developmental Services Agency, 3311 Burnt Mill Dr.

3/13: DEADLINE FOR CREATIVE WRITING CLASS

CREATIVE WRITING CLASS Exploring Creative Writing is a class designed to equip writers with the tools and community they need to grow as artists. Each week we will meet and read, do collaborative and individual writing exercises and discuss topics relevant to writers today. Writers of all experience levels and from all genres are welcome. The threeweek workshop will run from 3/20-4/3. We’ll meet each Saturday from 9-11:30am. Class will meet at 621 North 4th St., the historic Modular Graphics building. The cost is $60 and class sizes are limited to 12 to ensure the highest level of individual attention. Registration deadlines is 3/13. www. explorecreativewriting.wordpress.com, email us at bjasonfrye@gmail.com or lafrye@gmail.com or call us at 910-431-0274.

BACK PAIN SEMINAR If you are living with back pain, you know how hard it can be to get the most out of life. New Hanover Regional Medical Center wants to help you learn more about how to manage or even cure your pain at its free Back Pain seminar on Thurs.

3/25 from 6:30-8:30pm. at the NHRMC Surgical Pavilion. Experts from New Hanover Regional Medical Center will talk about the causes of back pain, how you can prevent it and your treatment options. Specialists will be on hand to talk about non-surgical and rehabilitative options, as well as qualifications for surgical treatment. www.nhrmc. org/LiveAndLearn. Reservations are required and can be made online or by calling VitaLine at (910) 815-5188.

WEIGHT LOSS CLASSES Series of 8 weight loss classes from a holistic standpointby Cortney Shallow, Certified Holistic Health Counselor. Beready to feel completely energized and motivated, so that you can look great and feel great by summer! Classes will be held at NaturalTherapies Institute from 7-8pm on Wed. starting 3/10. Costis $150. Prizes will be awarded! cortney.shallow@gmail.com.

A PLACE TO BEAD Beading classes and parties for all ages! Basic stringing and basic earring making offered weekly.

Precious Metal Clay and multiple wire wrapping classes offered monthly. Special projects and advanced classes offered on weekends. Every Sunday join local artist’s for Bead Therapy. Please call 910-799-2928 or check out www.aplacetobead. com for times and prices.

PRIVATE GUITAR LESSONS Private Guitar Lessons. $30/half hour or $45/hour.

Will come to you. 232-4750.

MILITARY FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Wilmington, North Carolina now has two Military Family Assistance Centers at 2412 Infantry Road and 3114 Randall Pkwy, as part of the North Carolina National Guard. Family Assistance Centers assist servicemembers and their families with benefits and services they are eligible for such as counseling, tax preparation, financial planning and free or low cost child and youth programs.

Supports service members of the Guard, Reserve Active Duty and their families with benefits and

S-ANON Meets Tuesdays @ 8pm. A support group for family and friends of sexaholics. Universal Unitarian Fellowship 4313 Lake Ave. 910-520-5518 wilmingtonsanon@bellsouth.net or www.sanon. org HOME EDUCATION ARTS HEArts (Home Education Arts) is a Wilmington, NC based homeschool group for families interested in using creative, integrated techniques to facilitate learning at home. We are a fully inclusive, nonsectarian group that embraces diversity. Members plan park play dates, fieldtrips, parties, classes and spontaneous activities. We meet online at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ HEArts_HomeEducationArts/. Sheree Harrell: 910.632.9454.

Expression can be a tricky thing, but when armed with a pen, it becomes relief, therapy and just sometimes great writing. Take part in an upcoming creative writing class at the Modular Graphics building on 4th Street, from the 20th through April 3rd. Participants will be equipped with the proper tools to grow as artists, as each week a new writing exercise will take place, along with reading and collaborative work. Costs is $60. (910) 431-0274. services they are eligible to receive. “www.nc.ngb. army.mil or (910) 343-1775.

Clubs/Notices WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Celebrate Women’s History Month! Nominate a great woman or young leader that you know in Wilmington for the 26th Annual YWCA Cape Fear Women of Achievement Awards. Celebrates the accomplishments of women and youth in Brunswick, New Hanover & Pender counties. 26th Anniversary Celebration will be held on 5/20, in the Coastline Convention Center in downtown Wilmington. For nomination information please contact Communications Director Mary Martin or 799-6820, x120. For sponsorship information contact Executive Director Suesan Sullivan or 799-6820, x102.

AZALEA FEST CAKE CHALLENGE The NC Azalea Festival proudly announces the addition of the Azalea Cake Challenge to the annual festival. Local bakers will be challenged to construct elaborate “centerpiece cakes” featuring themes which represent the best of the Azalea Festival. Contestants representing local bakeries, restaurants and catering services will compete in the professional division, while novice bakers can also compete in the amateur division. Cakes in both categories will be critiqued by a professional judging team consisting of local baking experts and Azalea Festival celebrities. Event ticket-holders will also be invited to judge in various “people’s choice” categories, and will have the opportunity to sample cakes in the professional category.

Takes place: Sun. 4/11, noon-4pm, Cape Fear Community College’s Schwartz Center. More info: www.ncazaleafestival.org TOURS OF WWII SITES Wilmington author and military historian Wilbur D. Jones, Jr., now leads customized, personalized guided tours of World War II sites in Southeastern North Carolina. 793-6393 or History@wilburjones. com GAMBLER’S ANONYMOUS Wilmington Gambler’s Anonymous Meeting, 6:30pm, Cape Fear Presbyterian Church. 2606 Newkirk Ave. Casey F.: (910) 599-140 YOUNG DEMOCRATS OF NHC Meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesday every month at the downtown public library, third floor, 6:30pm. Ages 18-35.

CAPE FEAR ROLLER GIRLS Love to Roller Skate? If you are interested in playing roller derby, being a derby referee, or derby volunteer please contact the Cape Fear Roller Girls: info@capefearrollergirls.com or visit our website www.capefearrollergirls.com.

All skill levels welcomed!

WILMINGTON NEWCOMERS CLUB Open to new residents in Brunswick, New Hanover & Pender Counties. Meets 2nd Thursday of month at 9:30am at the Ramada Inn and Conference Center, 5001 Market Street, between Kerr Ave. and New Centre Drive. Nancy Brennan (910) 270-6062; nabrennan@charter. net CAPE FEAR WEDDING ASSOCIATION Meet and greets the third Wednesday of each month. $25, members free. capefearweddingassociation.com YWCA YWCA Bridge club, Mon: 12:30-3:30pm. Open to all players new to duplicate and those with less than 50 points. Marie Killoran: 452-3057 or Shirley Dail: 799-4287 • Aquatics, adult and kids exercise programs available • Scrabble Club meets Thurs.at 6:30pm, YWCA Bridge Center in Marketplace Mall. Bruce Shuman: 256-9659 or Gary Cleaveland: 458-0752. www.scrabble-assoc. com • Chess Club meets Thurs.at 6:30pm. David Brown: 675-1252 or 343-8002; at the Bridge Center, 41 Market Place Mall. www.wilmingtonchess.com • Mommie-Preneurs, a network/support group of women entrepreneurs, meet the 1st Wed. of month at YWCA. 2815 S. College Rd; 910-799-6820. www. ywca.org

PSORIASIS SUPPORT GROUP Meets the 2nd Saturday of the month at Port City Java in Harris Teeter on College and Wilshire, 5pm.

Christopher: (910) 232-6744 or cvp@yahoo.com.

Free; meet others with psoriasis and get educated on resources and program assistance.

AD/HD SUPPORT GROUPS CHADD volunteers facilitate support groups for people affected by AD/HD. Our Parent Support Group for parents of children with AD/HD meets the second Mon of ea. month at the YWCA of the Lower Cape Fear (S. College Road at Holly Tree) from 7-9pm. Our Adult Support Group for adults who have AD/HD themselves meets monthly on the second Tuesday at the same place and time. Free and areavailable on a drop-in basis to residents of New Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick Counties.

Karen: WilmCHADD@aol.com.

CAPE FEAR KNITTERS Wilmington chapter of the Knitting Guild of America holds monthly meetings the 3rd Saturday of each month from 10am-noon, at UNCW, Bear Hall, Rm 208. Open to all interested in the skill of knitting. We will teach those interested in learning and help current knitters increase their knowledge and skill. Judy Chmielenski: 910-383-0374. www. tkga.com CREATIVE WOMEN’S EXCHANGE The Creative Women’s Exchange, a newly formed group of creative minds with a mission to be Wilmington’s primary catalyst of creative inspiration and support for women through events, workshops, monthly meetings, mentorship, projects and the open exchange of ideas and services will be resuming monthly meetings. The Greenlight Lounge from 7-9pm. 21 N. Front St. www.creativewomensexchange.com or (910)3520236.

CORKBOARD Available for your next CD or Demo

KAREN KANE MUSIC PRODUCTIONS 33 year veteran Producer/Engineer

200 alBuM credits

Dreaming Of A Career In The Music Industry?

AUDIO ENGINEERING CLASSES Music Recording, Mixing, Pro Tools, Studio Production Classes offered in Jan., Apr. and Sept.

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Happy Hour acupuncture $10 for StreSS, aDDictionS & balance!

Every Wednesday, 5-6:30pm Center for Spiritual Living • 5725 Oleander Dr., F1-1

Karen Vaughn, L.Ac • (910) 392-0870

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Proceeds Benefit The Wounded Warriors

eXtreme partY proDUctionS

beaUtifY YoUr Home cUStom tile worK

Escorts & Exotic Dancers

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Bathrooms, Kitchens, Fireplaces, Foyers, Shower Bottom Repairs, Etc.

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Pandora’s Box 5745 Oleander Drive

(910) 791-8698

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• all discontinued ellie sHoes: $9.99 (limited sizes available)

• 15% off all Power tools • 20% off any Jewelry accessory w/PurcHase of any lingerie • dVd rentals aVailaBle • all $9.99 dVds on sale now: 3 for $20 pirateS i anD ii now available!

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48 encore | march 3 - 9, 2010 | www.encorepub.com