March 30, 2016

encore

The Cape Fear’s Alternative Voice for 30 Years!

Featured Restaurant: Sweet n Savory - Spring 2016 Restaurant Week Participant & 2016 Best Of Winner. Cover photo by Tom Dorgan.

VOL. 32 / PUB. 40 / FREE march 30 – april 5, 2016

INDULGE!

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EAT. DRINK. JOIN US FOR THE MOST DELICIOUS WEEK OF SPRING! PGS. 32-33

BEST OF WRITEUPS, WEEK 4 PGS. 34-44

HODGEPODGE Vol. 32/Pub. 40

March 30 – April 5, 2016

Friday, April 1 - 5pm

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Party With A Purpose

ON THE COVER

“Beauty, Bling and Other Things” is a local group of small business owners, including LuLa Roe, doTerra, Silpada, Mary Kay, Rodan + Fields, Younique, Initial Outfitters, The Pampered Chef, and more. They’re planning a onestop-shop at their “Party with a Purpose” to benefit Lower Cape Fear Hospice on Friday, April 1, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., 1414 Physicians Dr. Their is no admission fee. Visit www.hospiceandlifecarecenter.org To enter events on encore’s new online calendar, generated by SpinGo, head to www.encorepub. com/welcome/events-2. Events must be entered by every Thursday at noon, for consideration in print and on our new app, encore Go. E-mail shea@encorepub.com with questions.

ILM Restaurant Week, pgs. 32-33 The cover photo of lobster linguine is one of several features from Sweet n Savory, participating in encore’s Wilmington Restaurant Week, along with several other local restaurants across ILM. Sweet n Savory also took two awards on our Best Of poll, for breakfast (above) and soups.

Read about them and other winners on pgs. 34-44. Courtesy photo.

M

Music>> Dirty White Rags is debuting their local brand of jazz, blues and rock at Satellite Bar and Lounge on Saturday, April 2, featuring opener Dylan Drake.

Photo by Anna Mann.

A

PGs. 8-9

Courtesy photo.

Editorial Assistant: Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com

Interns: Arnold Estrada-Lopez, Logan Brantley

SALES>

Courtesy photo.

E

Extra>> Amy Kirschke and James Benshoff (right) walked the catwalk at last year’s fashion show fundraiser for the Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc., with its 24th event coming up on Fri., April 1.

Editor-in-Chief: Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com

Chief Contributors: Gwenyfar Rohler, Anghus, Jay Schiller, Tom Tomorrow, Chuck Shepherd, Mark Basquill, Rosa Bianca, Rob Brezsny, Linda Grattafiori, Tiffanie DiDonato, Bethany Turner, Chris Pendergast, Jay Workman

<<ARt

PG. 14

EDITORIAL>

Art Director: Kyle Peeler // ads@encorepub.com

Artist Niki Hildebrand has her latest glass works on display at The Artworks, with more than 120 delicate glass leafs hanging on ‘Dreams of the Lungs of the Earth.’

General Manager: John Hitt // john@encorepub.com Advertising: John Hitt // Downtown // Carolina Beach // john@encorepub.com Shea Carver // Midtown, Monkey Junction // shea@encorepub.com Willa Brown // Midtown, Monkey Junction // sales@devourilm.com Rose Thompson // Wrightsville Beach, N. Wilmington // rose@encorepub.com Office Manager: Susie Riddle // susie@adpakweekly.com Distribution Manager: Boykin Wright Published weekly, on Wednesday, by HP Media.

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

PG. 49

INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • OpEd, pg. 6 • News of the Weird, pg. 7 Music, pgs. 8-12 • Art, pgs. 14-15 • Film, pg. 19 • Dining, pgs. 22-30 Restaurant Week, pgs. 32-33 • Extra, pgs. 34-49 • Calendar, pgs. 50-63

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event of the week

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

PORT CITY FOOD LOVERS,

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WILMINGTON 20

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16

MARCH 30 - APRIL 6

REJOICE! Join us for the most delicious week of spring!

participating restaurants downtown wilmington

midtown

south wilmington

The Basics Elijah’s Pilot House The George The Little Dipper YoSake Ruth’s Chris Steak House Kabob & Grill Circa 1922 Nema Eatery & Lounge Shuckin’ Shack Fork n’ Cork The District Kitchen & Cocktails Caprice Bistro Riverboat Landing

Sealevel City Gourmet Jamaica’s Comfort Zone Casey’s Buffet Carolina Ale House Hops Supply Co. A Taste of Italy Kyoto Asian Grille Okami Japanese Steakhouse El Cerro Grande Dig & Dive Hieronymus Seafood Tandoori Bites Mamma Bella Pizzeria La Costa Mexican Restaurant Might as Well Bar & Grill

Osteria Cicchetti II El Cerro Grande Henry’s Siena Trattoria

wrightsville beach

north wilmington

Bluewater Waterfront Grill Oceanic Sweet-n-Savory Café The Pub Boca Bay Spicoli Blockade Runner Beach Bagels

Eternal Sunshine Café Nawab Fine Indian Cuisine La Costa Mexican Restaurant The Melting Pot Osteria Cicchetti El Cerro Grande

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NEWS>>live local

live local, live small: Solid work from trusted community contractors

by: gwenyfar rohler

“W

RENOVATIONS REMAIN: Tim, Mike and Chris of Old School Rebuilders discuss the next steps for Gwenyfar’s family home. Photo by Gwenyfar Rohler

ell, it currently looks like London after the Blitz. It’s a shame we don’t have any friends currently filming a WWII short who need B-roll,” I said.

“So you’re going to leave it like that?”

“No.” I took a deep breath and tried not to sound rude. “It’s a historic house, it has to get repaired. The objective is not post-war England but Antebellum and Reconstruction South.”

I have a branch of relatives who live in a very ethereal connection with the rest of the world. Comprehending ideas that make up the building blocks of other people’s lives can be a bit off their radar. This conversation was about the

In addition, I had a week to convert an old servant’s commode on the back porch into a handicap-accessible bathroom in order to bring my dad home from the hospital. My favorite carpenter shook his head when he came over to discuss the project. He went through a list of why the proposal was bad idea.

confronted with a rotting back corner of the house: beams, joists, floor sections, and walls were literally falling apart when touched. The scale of work and geometry involved was more than one carpenter could handle, so Jeremy informed me I needed to look for outside help in way of a contractor.

At over 100 years old, basic maintenance of a home like this becomes pressing. However, during the last few years of my father’s life, it was very difficult to have tradesmen at the house working. My father had two traumatic brain injuries, so addressing the problem was difficult.

“You are going to have problems down the road.”

The back load-bearing post of the house rotted almost completely through.

He was right; every problem he predicted came to pass. Last year, I was

The necessary scope of repairs moved the project into the column of “long-term goals.” I deluded myself into thinking it would be more manageable and lovable than it was turning out to be. I personally consider working with contractors to be a form of punishment reserved for the third ring of Hell. As The Bard noted, “Necessity will make us all forsworn.”

renovation project going on at my parents’ historic home.

One of my Live Local resolutions this year (and last year) was to keep the house from collapsing. Along the way, I would invest in our local economy through tradesmen and suppliers. Here’s the short story of what has been happening:

4 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

“Jeremy, you have met every moral obligation to inform me of what I need to do—but I have a week to do this and bring Daddy home. We will address down the road later,” I responded with words to that effect.

So, here I was again, looking for a contractor to keep the house from falling

over. After a couple of discussions and false starts—trying to find someone who could actually look me in the eye, listen to what I wanted and not talk down to me, or interrupt me constantly to correct what I “really need to do”—I finally settled on Chris Yermal of Old School Rebuilders.

He materialized in late January with two truly lovely, talented and thoughtful carpenters, Tim and Mike.

to a completely different plumber (or possibly a roulette wheel of three or four) showing up after. Imagine my surprise to walk into the back yard the next day and have Bart Duarte and his helper, Teddy, walk out the basement door, calling greetings in my direction.

slid downhill much faster without his dog, Hosanna, and a house that meant so much to him.

OK, I thought. This is a different experience of someone actually listening.

When we were going through the bookstore renovation, I had no choice but to continue forward motion. With this project, the crisis has been averted.

Though Chris didn’t have much experience with the way my mind works, Bart does. So when we would get, for me, logical pause points, Bart was pretty prepared and took it in stride. “Is this Chris’ first project with you?” he asked one day. I nodded.

Bart laughed, assured me that everything “You’re staying to work with us?” Chris would come together and went back to conasked in mild disbelief. I nodded. “Uhm, necting the new sink drain.

OK, that’s kinda cool, actually.”

Bart was right. He usually is.

“Let me attempt to explain this: My obsession with this house makes Scarlett O’Hara and Tara look like kindergarten,” I commented. Chris chuckled and nodded, but Tim and Mike cottoned to what I was saying. “So I’m not going away.”

That first day was pretty much all the help I could be: finishing up demolition and loading trash. Afterward it was all skilled work, and Tim and Mike’s skills were light years beyond anything I could imagine doing. I went back to work at the bookstore and left efforts in their capable hands.

“Who was the last plumber to work on this?” Chris asked me one day. I confirmed a combination of Bart Duarte and Jock. Past experience with contractors and conversations like that usually lead

Eight weeks in to the project I hit a stopping point. The objective of “the house not collapsing” had been achieved. But we were still a long way from a functional bathroom. Looking around, I realized my desperate decision to go full force with everything Jeremy had warned against really was the only option. I would never have been able to bring Daddy home if we had waited through two or three months. He would have gone to a nursing home in the meantime and probably

At this point, today, the bathroom is as far along as I want to get right now.

We are just going to stop and have some calm and normalcy while I think.

As a result of all of this—and finally painting my VW bus—I have been thinking a lot lately about long-term goals.

I started this year with several pretty sizable ones looming over my head.

Though I haven’t completely accomplished and finished projects, there have been some pretty big leaps forward. I’ve started wondering if it isn’t really the bigger accomplishment: making progress, keeping all the balls juggled above my head, and in the end, having something I’m really pleased with rather than just rushing to get through it. I am just not ready to think about paint colors, tiles and fixtures. A decision about a paint color can take me months. Picking out a replacement sink can be half a year.

I want to be a good steward of the legacy I have been gifted. I want to be

a good community member who supports her local economy and works with people she respects, who do good work and contribute to this part of the world.

So, with those thoughts in mind, it should come as no surprise to readers of Live Local that I am a huge fan of Stevens Hardware and Godwin’s Lumber. Both are family-owned, multi-generational, local businesses that put quality and customer service in the forefront and are part of making this community a lovely place to live.

There were some significant differences in dealing with Chris than my past experiences in the land of contractors. One difference (aside from calling Bart) was the lovely itemized invoices, which included notations of purchases from Stevens and Godwin’s. I was so pleased I almost cried.

It can be hard to explain just how emotional I am about the house I grew up in (my comment about Scarlett and Tara is as close as I can put it into words). I want the best for it—good quality materials, as well as lots of care and love in the work. Trusting someone to work on the house and care for her is not easy.

Watching Tim and Mike work diligently has been reassuring. Seeing the fruits of their labors and knowing it is solid for the foreseeable future is a huge weight off my shoulders.

encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 5

NEWS>>op-ed

Re-Birth of a Nation: Think the Civil War is over? distractions, I completely missed seeing that a leading candidate still denies a twoterm sitting president is eligible for the ofran into Peter Grear, Esq. a while back fice. He wants the nation to be reborn like at a red light. I was thinking about the it was when the Klan redeemed the South. elections, the McCrory administration Peter and I both see we have reduced and “Birth of a Nation,” a 101-year-old interpersonal racism; calling people the silent film. Then, my car slipped into re- “N” word, putting signs up that explicitly verse. The fact the first film shown at the say, “No Blacks” are things of the past, White House was an adaptation of a novel mostly. A friend of mine writes a blog; one titled, “The Klansman,” and made by the of his current musings called for literacy son of a Confederate colonel, speaks vol- tests before people could vote. He notes umes about the deep institutional roots of how in olden, golden times voters had to racism and inequality in America. be a man with a job and property to vote.

I

by: MARK BASQUILL

It’s not a good idea to bump into a lawyer at a red light, but I was lucky I ran into Peter. He’s worked and walked with Rev. Barber on Moral Monday initiatives.

He writes for Greater Diversity News (GDN) and www.TheThirdReconstruction. com with a primary focus on political, social and economic justice. Despite different cultural backgrounds, Peter and I see eye to eye on a number of issues. We see ongoing problems of institutionalized racism, opportunity inequality and voter suppression.

Jason Isbell

Tommy Emmanuel

John Oates

Jerry Douglas

MerleFest and WCC are 100% Tobacco Free.

W i l k e s C o m m u n i t y C o l l e g e • W i l k e s b o r o , N o r t h C a r o l i n a

6 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

The views presented are not necessarily those of Wilkes Community College or endorsed by the college.

He suggests we reconsider reasonable restrictions like that. But he’s not sexist— and wouldn’t think of calling anyone the “N” word.

We have trimmed the branches of the lynching tree, but the roots remain intact.

Peter and I see the gutting of the Voting Rights Act as a national tragedy. I also think it’s a farce that, with miraculous advances in information technology, we have gone to greater and greater lengths to make it difficult to cast a vote—or have it counted. (Let’s not forget, Ted Cruz was While we waited for the fender bender a key counsel on the Bush legal team that crew, I told Peter how puzzled I was by prepared the Supreme Court case in Bush the number of Confederate monuments I v. Gore, which argued State’s Rights.) saw when I visited the NC State Capitol in It’s cool Bernie noticed voter suppresRaleigh last year. sion in Arizona when it affected him. Ari“When I was in school up north...” zona reducing polling places from 200 to “You were taught the Civil War was 60 in a county with 4.2 million people is absurd. Trouble is, black, brown and poor over,” Peter concluded. people are routinely disenfranchised at Next I asked, “Why isn’t there at least the voting booth throughout the country. support for a monument to the Unknown Arizona pales when compared to the Slave?” systematic attacks on voting rights here Peter sighed, “We’ll get to it. But there’s in North Carolina. In Harris v. McCrory a not enough gas for some things.” federal court actually concluded the state Substance over style. used a “racial quota” in drawing Districts 1 One hundred and one years after “Birth and 12. “Racial quota.” That’s not ancient of a Nation” I asked Peter how much prog- history. That’s February ... 2016. ress we’ve made in reconstructing a deNeither Peter nor I were injured in the mocracy in which black, white, rich, and fender bender. That means I may get a poor all have equal rights under the law— chance to walk with Peter and raise my including the right to vote? voice against power. I see it as the right thing to do. It’s also self-serving. The way “A leading candidate for the White House I look at it, if power wants to rebirth this is an unrepentant birther,” Peter replied. nation and silence the voices of Martin Lu“Birther?” I chuckled at my blindness. ther King, Rev. Barber and Peter Grear, it “That’s right! He’s never admitted Presi- really doesn’t want to hear mine. dent Obama is legit and questions his ri I am not interested in being reborn. vals’ legitimacy.”

Wow! Amid this campaign season’s violent rhetoric and adolescent insult tweeting

Wait, What?

Hardly a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do-Nothingâ&#x20AC;? Congress

In March, U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions of Texas, chairman of the House Rules Committee, introduced a resolution to recognize â&#x20AC;&#x153;magicâ&#x20AC;? as one of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;national treasure(s),â&#x20AC;? backed by a 711-word paean urging all to â&#x20AC;&#x153;support and protectâ&#x20AC;? the storied craft â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which needs to be â&#x20AC;&#x153;understood and promulgated,â&#x20AC;? especially given that, according to Sessions, it â&#x20AC;&#x153;requires only the capacity to dream.â&#x20AC;? Sessions made no link of magic to resolving other congressional business (such as, for instance, ending the string of 64 consecutive failed votes to repeal the Affordable Care Act).

Leading Economic Indicators

People With Too Much Money: Residents on Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swankiest street (Kensington Palace Gardens), stymied in efforts to build upward on their relatively small lots, instead plan elaborate â&#x20AC;&#x153;basementsâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; extending as far as five stories down, with elevators, swimming pools, gyms, climbing walls, and one even with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ferris wheelâ&#x20AC;? for dialing up the residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daily choice among his several cars. However, embassies are located on the street and have challenged the construction chaos as offending their sovereignty under international law. Recent restrictions limit the basements to one story down, but billionaire entrepreneur Jon Huntâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five stories are grandfathered in (though his â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ferris wheelâ&#x20AC;? appears to have been shelved).

New World Order

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Mystery fiction has always been a popular genre, but now, readers who prefer that their crimes be solved by cats have several series of brilliant felines to choose from. As The Wall Street Journal reported in February, the major controversy swirling at â&#x20AC;&#x153;cat fictionâ&#x20AC;? conventions is whether the clever kitties should advance the plot by speaking. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all talk to our pets,â&#x20AC;? noted one best- selling author, â&#x20AC;&#x153;and most of us imagine the other side of the dialogue.â&#x20AC;? (Among the sets boasting more than a million copies are the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Joe Greys,â&#x20AC;? the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Klepto Cats,â&#x20AC;? the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cat Shout for Joyâ&#x20AC;? suite, and the recently concluded, 29-volume run of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cat Whoâ&#x20AC;? books, e.g., â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Cat Who Could Read Backwards.â&#x20AC;?) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Glasgow, Scotland, company Osdin Shield announced recently that it had

designed for potential sale (for those relaxing, yet secure evenings) a fashionable yet bullet-proof sofa and upholstered chairs sturdy enough to protect against 9mm handguns, shotguns and AK47s â&#x20AC;&#x201D; with special marketing to hotels, embassies and government buildings. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A Perfect Storm of Vacuousness: In February, British marketing company Havas Helia tapped the â&#x20AC;&#x153;millennialâ&#x20AC;? generationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s obsessions with craft beer and data-driven knowledge, announcing the development of 0101 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a brew created, it said, by social media messages. The company, â&#x20AC;&#x153;findingâ&#x20AC;? that the generation appeared â&#x20AC;&#x153;optimistic,â&#x20AC;? analyzed â&#x20AC;&#x153;thousandsâ&#x20AC;? of the generationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s messages against 24 human emotions, which it translated to 38 particular emotional states, which were fed into the IBM Watson computer, which selected 10 existing beers, whose recipes were then cribbed to create 0101 (a â&#x20AC;&#x153;cream aleâ&#x20AC;? with honey and two specific kinds of hops, tasting of â&#x20AC;&#x153;optimism, love, imagination, and gentle overtones of excitementâ&#x20AC;?).

Infrastructure Blues: (1) A 5-year-old, slow-moving underground fire (beneath a Superfund cleanup site) is within 1,200 feet of a waste site for nuclear weapons near St. Louis, according to a December Associated Press report. The Environmental Protection Agency, of course, said not to worry, that the heat from the fire was not enough to ignite chemicals or trigger an explosion. (2) While America was outraged about the water in Flint, Michigan, the tap water in Crystal City, Texas (100 miles southwest of San Antonio) was suddenly as black and thick â&#x20AC;&#x153;as oilâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;stank,â&#x20AC;? according to a resident. The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water superintendent said the town had decided to clean residue from the system for the first time in â&#x20AC;&#x153;20 to 30 years.â&#x20AC;?

Least Competent Criminals

Needed Training Wheels: Timothy Broad, 30, was convicted in February of a November Clacton, England, convenience store robbery and jailed for more than three years. The balaclava-wearing Broad had pedaled away from the store with the money but managed to fall off his bicycle three separate times, in short order, in the process losing both the balaclava (from which his DNA was recovered) and all the cash.

Least Competent Government

Following a simplistic hack at the Internal Revenue Service that permitted several thousand tax returns to be illegally accessed and refunds commandeered, the agency created an equally porous â&#x20AC;&#x153;fixâ&#x20AC;? merely copied from failed security elsewhere on the IRS website. According to a March Washington Post report, the fix admirably added one level of security (a personal PIN), but nonetheless allowed anyone to change anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PIN using publicly available information. IRS Commissioner John Koskinen told the Post that â&#x20AC;&#x153;only a handfulâ&#x20AC;? of taxpayers were victimized by the faulty fix (but later defined â&#x20AC;&#x153;handfulâ&#x20AC;? as â&#x20AC;&#x153;fewer than 200â&#x20AC;?).

Things People Believe

Murders are being committed over hair weaves, reported WMC-TV (Memphis, Tennessee) in March, with one likely explanation being a belief that a person who acquires tufts of human hair surely acquires the fortunes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; good or bad â&#x20AC;&#x201D; of the person who grew the hair. That is especially true of â&#x20AC;&#x153;virginâ&#x20AC;? hair from India, shorn for religious sacrifices (â&#x20AC;&#x153;tonsuringâ&#x20AC;?) before falling into the hands of agents who sell to Western women. Said a Memphis pastor, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A generation back or so,â&#x20AC;? people were being killed over tennis shoes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now (itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) hair.â&#x20AC;?

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encore | march 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 7

arts>>music

Down and Dirty:

The Dirty White Rags head to Satellite with Dylan Drake by: shannon rae gentry

BIGGER SOUND: Local band Dirty White Rags broadens their reach with an upcoming performance at Satellite Bar and Lounge on April 2 and an EP release in late spring. Photo by Anna Mann.

“T

ogether we have the capabilities of a potato when it comes to promoting ourselves,” Callan Trippe admits. She’s also speaking about keyboardist David Vaughn. They are one half of local jazz, rock and blues band, Dirty White Rags. “[David and I] have been playing together for about five years, but we’ve never really had the confidence to go outside our comfort zone,” Trippe continues.

Since their start as a duo, eventually picking up a drummer and bassist, Dirty White Rags has typically kept Fermental as their main haunt. Aside from sporadic appearances across town and a couple of videos on YouTube, they’re pretty much the white whale of the local music scene.

“They were playing for like six people,” Carolina Pine Music Series and Festival cofounder Anna Mann recalls of the first

8 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

time she saw Dirty White Rags. “Their sound is a lot bigger than six people.”

Mann is helping them with booking more shows and developing a marketing strategy where none previously existed. She insisted they needed an online presence and proceeded to shoot a video for them, took some promo photos and booked their forthcoming show at Satellite Bar and Lounge on Saturday, April 2.

Opener Dylan Drake—who recently released an album “Dreaming So Well” as

part of the RPM Challenge, which mandated artists write and record a record in a month—will take the stage with his brand of “dream folk” at 9 p.m. Dirty White Rags (DWR) will follow.

Mann also introduced DWR to Trent Harrison of Hourglass Studio, with whom they’ve been working on their first EP. While the album is a relatively short collection of just five songs, it’s a huge step forward for the group.

“Trent is a champion,” Trippe praises.

“He just made the whole thing painless and fun, which is surprising since we put it off for so long. It doesn’t feel real. . . .

We’re really excited for this opportunity to expand our reach.”

Tentatively named “Junk Mail for Strangers,” it includes originals they’ve played for years. Trippe and Vaughn first met at a local open mic at Juggling Gypsy, where she was likely singing “Georgia on my Mind” in between slinging drinks behind the bar.

Vaughn knew immediately he wanted to work with her.

Until then Vaughn was mostly working with church choirs and listened to a lot of ‘70s hard rock, as well as bluegrass and country. Trippe didn’t. Heavily influenced by jazz and blues, she and Vaughn share in the songwriting process.

“Having those two different strengths really complements our stuff,” he says. “Because we both love jazz … and with our tastes, we just pretty much do whatever we want.”

Their different interests and influences in music clash sometimes, too.

“I’ve written songs and Callan will be like, ‘yeah, we’re not doing that,’” Vaughn laughs. “But if it’s just not something that fits her style and her voice, we just move on to the next thing.”

Trippe usually comes up with rhythms and melodies, while Vaughn fleshes them out. Some songs have come together in as little as 15 minutes, like their first collaboration in “Serial Lover,” while others have taken years to evolve.

“Serial Lover” also is one of the most requested songs at DWR shows, much to Trippe’s surprise. “It’s kind of weird because it talks about vaguely taboo things,” she explains. “But it’s such a peppy, happysounding song people don’t notice the first line is, ‘I love my man, as best as I can/I keep him tied up in the back of my van.’”

Though Trippe is a healthy mix of bubbly yet a little shy and reserved, she’s anything but on onstage. She seems to channel Louis Armstrong and Ray Charles in a mod dress when singing this dark yet whimsy tune.

But rather than be another quirky band with jazzy songs about bondage, Trippe also says they’re trying to break away from the pack. Enter: drummer Stuart Currin and bassist Samantha Lynn.

Currin brought in his drumming talents about two years ago and has a knack for playing anything by ear. “He’s one of the most talented drummers I’ve ever come across,” Trippe adds. “We’ve had maybe one real rehearsal with Stuart since he started playing with us, and without fail, he is so quick to pick up when you throw anything at him.”

Lynn came onto the scene about a year ago and Trippe was quick to snatch her up when she found out she played. “Sam I just kind of bullied into it,” Trippe laughs.

Currin and Lynn also add more depth to songs as backing vocals, providing harmonies and fuller sound. Trippe says the songs are more expressive than they could ever could be with just piano and vocals.

“Adding extra layers and harmony lines brings a lot more emotion to it,” she adds.

“We’re super lucky to have those guys.”

“Starlight” is another song on their EP that’s been around for a while, but has come a long way since the first time she sang it to Vaughn years ago. “It’s one of my favorite things to play and I’ve been doing this for a long time,” he says.

“Starlight” is about someone sitting by the window, waiting for the next shooting star to make a wish on. “But it’s never going to happen,” Trippe reveals.

Trippe’s favorite track so far is “Fly Away.” She wrote it while more or less living in isolation after a hiatus in Atlanta a couple of years back. “My father had just died and I was all over the place,” she admits. “Then I wrote this simple little song. I sang it into this little microphone I had and e-mailed it David, and we came up with the music miles apart.”

Trippe and Vaughn’s excitement is hardly contained in talking about their upcoming gig. It’s indicative of their passion for song and performance—even if they lack persistency in promotion. “Our main goal is to have as much fun as humanly possibly,” Trippe says, “and we usually do.”

Dirty White Rags are tentatively planning an album release party for the first weekend of May. Follow their work on Facebook and see them live with Dylan Drake at Satellite on Saturday, April 2.

Details:

Dirty White Rags with Dylan Drake Saturday, April 2, 9 p.m.

Satellite Bar and Lounge 20 Greenfield Lake St. Free

2101-7 MARKET ST BEHIND PORT CITY JAVA

MISHKA

FEATURING COLEMAN DALEY FROM 7:30 - 10:30PM

TUES MAY 17th

JAZZ & COCKTAIL WEDNESDAYS COME ENJOY LIVE MUSIC FROM THE KEITH BUTLER TRIO FROM 8:30 - 11:30PM

NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHT EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT, COME JOIN US FOR STEVIEMACK’S INTERNATIONAL FOOD TRUCK!

LIVE MUSIC FROM

SARAH RICHARDSON FEATURING JONATHAN CARROLL FROM 8:30 - 11:30PM

SAT APR 2nd

G-DADDY SAUCE TASTING EVENT COME ENJOY LIVE BLUES MUSIC - APRIL 2ND FROM 5 - 7PM

LIVE MUSIC FROM

L SHAPE LOT DUO FROM 8 - 11PM

fri apr 8TH

LEWIS FARMS 2ND ANNUAL STRAWBERRY BEER CHALLENGE: SATURDAY, MAY 7TH COME ENJOY BEERS FROM WILMINGTON HOME BREW (LOCAL), WHITE STREET BREWERY (WAKE FOREST), & BELL’S BREWERY (KALAMAZOO, MICHIGAN) encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 9

a preview of events across town this week

the soundboard

Wrightsville Beach, NC

LIVE MUSIC fri

MAR 25 sat

mar 26 fri

Christine Martinez Acoustic Mix, 7pm - 10pm

Mike o’donnell

Dance & Classic, 7pm - 10pm

overtyme

apr 8

Eclectic, 7pm - 10pm

sat

forrest tabor

apr 9

Eclectic Mix, 7pm - 10pm

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

2016 WATERFRONT MUSIC SERIES Sundays, 4-8PM

April 3rd The Breakfast Club April 10th Back of the Boat April 17th Machine Gun 4 Marina St, Wrightsville Beach | 910.256.8500

BluewaterDining.com

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

Call 791-0688 Deadline every Thurs., noon!

RHYTHM AND BREWS: See The Tremors with local rockabilly favorites The Phantom Playboys at Ironclad Brewery on Second Street in downtown Wilmington. Show starts at 9 p.m. on Saturday, April 2, with a $5 cover. Photo by Joe Bemis.

Wednesday, March 30 Intervention Wed. Open Mic (6:30pm; Free) —Addicted to the Bean, 1207 S. Kerr Ave.

Trivia with Jim and Glenn (6:30pm; Free)

Nora Jane Struthers and Striking Copper (8pm; Cover TBD; Americana)

Thursday, March 31

Karaoke Night (9:30pm; Free)

—Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Wilmington, 4313 Lake Ave.

—The Whiskey Bar NC, 1 S. Front St.

—Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market St.

—Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Drive; 910509-0805

James Jarvis (7pm; Free; Jazz Piano)

Keith Butler (8:30pm; Free; Jazz)

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

Beau Soir (7pm; $5-$10)

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

Tacos and Trivia (8pm; Free)

—Capt’n Bills Backyard and Grille, 4240 Market St.

—Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St.; 9105994999

Brooke Thompson (9pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.; 910-362-9666

Roy Zimmerman (7pm; $18; Satirical Songs)

Contemporary Classical Series (7pm; $5-$10) —Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999

Municipal Waste (7pm; $12-$15; Thrash) —Ziggy’s By The Sea, 208 Market St.; 910-769-4096

Tyler McKaig (7pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

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

10 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

Susan Savia (7pm; Free; Acoustic) —Goat & Compass, 710 N. 4th St.

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

First Saturday Blues Jam (8pm; Free)

Dale and The ZDubs (8pm; Cover TBD; Reggae, Rock, Ska)

—Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

Fire and Drums (9pm; Free)

—Ironclad Brewery, 115 N 2nd St.

Trivia Night (9pm; Free)

Atlantic Thrills, Deadly Lo-Fi & Foxbait (9pm; $5; Rock, Garage Rock)

—The Whiskey Bar NC, 1 S. Front St. —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

The Tremors & The Phantom Playboys (9pm; $5; Rockabilly)

—Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.; 910-509-0805

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

Karaoke (9pm; Free)

—Goat & Compass, 710 N. 4th St.

—Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market St.

Griffin Limerick (9pm; Free; Guitarist, Singer) —Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.; 910-362-9666

Bass Station (10pm; Free)

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Friday, April 1 Jim Ashley (6pm; Free; Folk)

—A Tasting Room, 19 S. 2nd St.

The Fustics (9pm; Free; Folk, Rock) Blaire Postman (9:30pm; $12; Comedy)

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

Jason Thompson (10pm; Free; Country Blues, Americana) —Longstreet’s, 135 N. Front St.

Donna Merritt (10pm; Free; Piano)

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

Justin Cody Fox (10:30pm; Free; Americana) —Duck n Dive, 114 Dock St.

Justin Fox Duo (7pm; Free; Americana) —Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

Sunday, April 3

Monica and Wes (7pm; Free; Acoustic Mix)

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

Bluegrass Jam (7pm; $3)

The Breakfast Club (4pm; Free; ‘80s Cover)

—Holiday Inn Resort, 1706 N. Lumina Ave. —Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379

John Felts (7pm; $12; Comedy)

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

Kickin’ Aces (8pm; Free; Classic Rock)

—Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St. —Bluewater Grill, 4 Marina St.

Shaman’s Harvest (8pm; $10-$15; Rock) —Ziggy’s By The Sea, 208 Market St.; 910-769-4096

—Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market St.

Monday, April 4

Stick Figure (8:30pm; $14-$16; Reggae)

Music & Comedy Open Mic (8:30pm; Free)

—Ziggy’s By The Sea, 208 Market St.; 910-769-4096

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Dirty Fences, Male Men, Johnny Yeager and The Vintage Ladies (9pm; $5)

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

Crystal Fussell Duo (9pm; Free; Country)

www.RuckerJohns.com VISIT WWW.RUCKERJOHNS.COM FOR FRIDAY MONDAY DAILY SPECIALS, MUSIC & EVENTS Select Appetizers halfMONDAY off $ 4 Cosmopolitan $ 2 Big Domestic Draft Beers $550 Watermelon Martini $ 95 22oz. Domestic Draft ALL DAY 4 RJ's Coffee $ 3 Sam Adams and Blue $5 Pizzas Moon Seasonal Bottles TUESDAY TUESDAY 1/2 off Select Bottles SATURDAY LIVE JAzz IN THE BAR of Wine $ $ 6 All Half Price Bottles of Southern Wine Shiners 5 Absolut Dreams $ 50 $ Blue$2Moon Draft 3 NC Brewed Bottles • Pacifico Absolut Dream $$5503-22oz 2 Select Domestic Bottles WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY SUNDAY 1/2 offMiller Nachos Light Pints $150$ Coronoa/ $ 50 5 All$2Flat 50 Breads 1 Domestic Pints Corona Lite Bottles $ 50 $4 Bloody$ Marys 2 Corona/Corona Lt. Margaritas/Peach Margaritas 4 Pints $ 50 $ 50 1 Domestic 4 Frozen Margarita $ 5 White Russians THURSDAY (pick your flavor) Visit our $website Appletinis $4, RJ’s Painkiller 5

THURSDAY www.RuckerJohns.com $ 50 2 Red Stripe for Bottles $ 50 daily specials, music and 2 Fat Tire Bottles $ 50 2 Fat Tire Bottles upcoming events $ 50 2 Flying Dog IPA 1/2 off ALL Red WineFRIDAY5564 Carolina $ 50 Glasses Cosmos $4, 007 Beach 3 Road $ (910)-452-1212 3 Guinness Cans Island Sunsets $5 SATURDAY Baybreeze/Seabreeze $4 22oz. Blue Moon Draft $3 Select Domestic Bottles $2 SUNDAY Bloody Marys $4, Domestic Pints $150 $ Wednesdays & Fridays Hurricanes 5 6-9pm th 5564 Carolina Road, AprilBeach 6 (910)Ronner 452-1212 Rob

April 8th Mike Frusia April 13th Mykel Barbee

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

David Dixon (9pm; Free; Acoustic)

—Goat & Compass, 710 N. 4th St.;

Cliff Cash (9:30pm; $12; Comedy)

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

DJ UK (10pm; Free)

—Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market St.

Clay Whittington (10pm; Free; Piano, Vocals) —Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.; 910-362-9666

Ameriglow (9pm; Free; Anti-Americana)

—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield Lake St.

Tuesday, April 5 Open Mic (7:30pm; Free)

—Goat & Compass, 710 N. 4th St.

703 S. Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach | 910.256.5551

OceanicRestaurant.com

Mike O’Donnell (7pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —Holiday Inn Resort, 1706 N. Lumina Ave.

Jazz Piano on Front St. (6pm; Free)

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

Joe Morgan (6pm; Free; Acoustic)

LIVE MUSIC in the courtyard 7 days a week

MONDAY S.I.N. NIGHT $2 Domestics • $3 All Draft Selections • $4 Flavored Bombs 50% off Apps 6pm til close NEW BELGIUM TUESDAY $3 New Belgium selections (Fat Tire, Ranger IPA) $5 Jameson • Wing Special WEDNESDAY $2.75 Miller Lite, $4 Wells, Half off All Bottles of wine Live Music @ 8pm THIRSTY THURSDAY $2.50 PBR 16oz cans $3.50 Sam Adams Seasonal & Hoppyum Pints $5 Redbull & Vodka, 50¢ Steamed Oysters and Shrimp FRIDAY $2.75 Michelob Ultra • $3.25 Stella $4.50 Lunazul Tequila • Live Music on the Patio SATURDAY $2.75 Carolina Blonde & Carolina Strawberry • Reel Cafe Rooftop Concert Series • Brunch from 11am - 2pm SUNDAY $3 Coronas/Corona Lite • $10 Domestic Buckets (5) $4 Mimosas • $4 Bloody Mary’s • Brunch from 11am - 2pm

Wednesday, April 6 Thursday ________________________________________

—Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market St.

James Jarvis, Jazz Piano (7pm; Free)

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

Raphael Name’ (7pm; $3; Guitar)

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

Keith Butler (8:30pm; Free; Jazz)

Brooke Thompson (9pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)

Jesse Jones (7pm; $12; Comedy)

100 S. FRONT ST. 910-251-1832

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

Fred Flynn & Wes Sayer (7pm; Free; Country)

—Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.

Deadline every Thurs., noon!

College Karaoke (9pm; Free)

—A Tasting Room, 19 S. 2nd St.

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

Call 791-0688

—Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

—Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St.; 9105994999

—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

(as little as $29 a week!)

Cape Fear Blues Jam (8pm; Free)

Trivia with Jim and Glenn (6:30pm; Free)

Saturday, April 2

FEATURE YOUR LIVE MUSIC FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS

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

Karaoke Night w/ Party Gras (9:30pm; Free)

$2.50 Budweiser Draft $4 Wells 65 Wings, 4-7pm $3.50 Sweetwaters $4.50 Absolute Lemonade 65 Wings, 4-7pm

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

$3.50 Sweet Josie $4 Margaritas $3.50 Pint of the Day $4 Fire Ball $5 Mimosas $5 Car Bombs $5 Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas *Drink Specials run all day

TRIVIA WITH STEVE

8:30 p.m. • PRIZES! • $250 yuengling drafts

Friday ____________________________________________

LIVE __________________________________________ MUSIC Sunday

BREAKFAST BUFFET

9:00 A.m.- 2:00 P.M.• $4 BLOODY MARY’S AND MIMOSA’S

1 42 3 S . 3 r d S t . D O W NT O W N W I L M I NG T O N ( 91 0 ) 7 63 - 1 60 7

—Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.; 910-509-0805

encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 11

concerts outside of southeastern nc

showstoppers

AWAY TRIP: Catch Holy Ghost Tent Revival at Motorco Music Hall in Durham on April 7. Photo by Evoke Emotion Photography.

NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE NORTH DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 3/30: Divin’ n’ Cryin’ and Great Peacock 4/1: Delbert McClinton and Brian Dunne 4/2: Crywolf, Ra and DOMII 4/5: Pound House Live 4/7: The Steel Wheels 4/8: Earphunk and Maradeen THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., Charlotte, NC (704) 916-8970 3/30: Chance the Rapper 4/1: On the Border 4/5: Beirut 4/7: Big Gigantic and Louis Futon 4/8: SOJA AMOS’ SOUTHEND 1423 S. TRYON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 377-6874 4/1: Hysteria 4/2: The Breakfast Club 4/8: Bad Romeo MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE., durham, NC (919) 901-0875 3/31: Chad Valley and Blackbird Blackbird 4/2: Driftwood and Milkweed 4/3: Walker Lukens 4/7: Holy Ghost Tent Revival

12 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

HOUSE OF BLUES MYRTLE BEACH 4640 Hwy 17 S., Myrtle Beach, SC (843) 272-3000 4/2: Dave Matthews Band Tribute 4/9: Billy Currington

LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. Cabarrus st., raleigh, nc (919) 821-4111 3/30: Autolux and Eureka The Butcher 3/31: Stick Figure, Fortunate Youth and Raging Fyah 4/1: Start Making Sense 4/2: The Mantras, Psylo Joe and Fonix 4/3: The Infamous Stringdusters, Nicki Bluhm and more 4/5: Big Gigantic and Louis Futon 4/7: Elle King 4/8: Delta Rae and Aubrie Sellers CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN St., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 3/30: The Wonder Years and more 3/30: Konrad Küchenmeister and more (Back Room) 3/31: G. Love & Special Sauce, Bones of J.R. Jones 4/1: Skylar Gudasz and more (Back Room) 4/2: Lowland Hum and Michael Rank (Back Room) 4/2: Daughter and Wilsen 4/4: Marc Ribot (Back Room) 4/5: Chon, Polyphia and Strawberry Girls (Back Room) 4/5: Sean Watkins, Petra Haden and Jesse Harris THE ORANGE PEEL 101 bILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 4/2: Yo La Tengo 4/3: Bombino and Last Good Tooth 4/5: Gold Rose

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arts>>art

THINK OF THE EARTH:

Niki Hildebrand brings a splash of color to The ArtWorks from the moment I set foot here during vacation. The pull for me was so strong that I went back to Northern Ireland and tied up all my loose ends and moved here a month later. I walked Wrightsville Beach and couldn’t believe people lived in paradise. For me, as someone who is so visual, my surroundings are so important. I’ve been in big cities all my life and Wilmington was just what I was looking for.

by: ARNOLD LOPEZ

W

hat sound does a tree make when it’s falling? It snaps, thumps and hits the ground. Niki Hildebrand doesn’t want to hear trees fall. Instead, she prefers the sound of leaves whistling in the wind. Her pieces and work speak to something bigger than herself; in 50 works in her latest exhibition, the earth is central to what she wants to say.

Hailing from London, England, Hildebrand worked for a time in Belfast, Northern Ireland, before making the move to Wilmington, NC. She studied at the London Institute, Chelsea College of Art and Design and then Rhode Island School of Design in Providence.

e: What is the message or idea behind “Dreams of the Lungs of the Earth?”

Her current exhibition, “Breathing Through the Lungs of the Earth,” will be on display until May 13th at The ArtWorks. Hildebrand’s glass art packs a powerful, colorful punch. The luminous glass she morphs helps refine her vision, and encore got the chance to ask what that is. encore (e): How did you get into glasswork?

Niki Hildebrand (NH): If I can say glass spoke to me, it wouldn’t be far off. I was the kid always winning all the art awards throughout school, and so at the end I wanted to learn a trade— something I could support myself with. I chose furniture design. I would go to every museum I could get to, and at this time there was a Charles Rennie Mackintosh exhibit. The Scottish artist used glass in his furniture, and I realized the glass was calling me.

I followed it up with an internship in London at a glass studio and then headed to Rhode Island School of Design to get a degree in glass—everything from the science of glass to etching, polishing, blowing, casting. So much of life is cyclical! Years later I discovered the grant I was awarded out of college was from the same foundation that had funded the Mackintosh exhibition—which had inspired me to go into glass! e: What have you learned about life in general, living as a working artist?

NH: That no matter what your field in life you must be true to yourself—especially in art, where you’re open to so much of everybody else’s opinion. Opinions can be interesting and progressive but also be damaging and distractive, especially when you’re trying to create something that might open ideas and thoughts for humanity in general.

When I create my own work, it’s like I give birth to my children—that’s how much energy gets used up, and the nurturing and love, and then the letting go. Turns out, letting go is just

14 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT: “Dreams of the Lungs of the Earth” by Niki Hildebrand is on display at The ArtWorks through May 13. Photo

by John Wilson.

as important in life as forming, creating and taking action. Your energy flows where your focus goes; I make sure it flows in the direction of higher thoughts and awakening for all of humanity. e: Where is all your work being shown worldwide?

NH: I have the leaf installation that is up at The ArtWorks and also Eclipse Gallery at Blue Moon, both in Wilmington. There are quite a lot of various private collections worldwide. My next solo show is in Munich Germany and then later in the year a group show near Hamburg, Germany. e: What’s your greatest accomplishment thus far?

NH: Currently, it would be the artist residences that I’ve been doing and getting my work back over in Europe again. In particular, the residence in North Carolina earlier this year at Penland School of Crafts was self-motivated and inspirational. My current contract is with the city of Munich on an artist residence, and my work includes humans and trees, which will go on exhibit near Hamburg

NH: The installation of “Dreaming of the Lungs of the Earth” came about because I was making glass leaves for some other sculptures. As I was making them, I was thinking about all the trees that we’ve been cutting down [in Wilmington]. When you look at the lungs of a human, the blood vessels look very much like tree roots, and it’s not a far stretch when you realize trees are breathing the carbon dioxide and giving off oxygen. The trees are like lungs on this earth.

There’s been extensive cutting of trees from Eastwood to River Road and a friend in passing answered, “And then they’ll wonder why the temperature went up by 2 degrees this year.”

There’s a video that goes along with the installation and it’s projected onto the screens around the disconnected bedroom furniture. It features trees moving in and out, and the sound of my breath in reverse first breathing out and then in. The glass leaves sparkle in the afternoon sun as they hang above the tiny glass bed of a dreaming figure in the center. e: What’s next? Are you working on any big themes in your next series?

NH: Having broken my hand last year, I started working more again with wood and so wood has become part of my sculptures with glass. It makes sense since all my imagery at the moment is about trees, leaves and human connection.

Details:

Breathing Through the Lungs of the Earth

On exhibit through May 13 The ArtWorks • 200 Willard Street e: What connects you to Wilmington’s art Fri., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. community?

Sat., 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

NH: I’ve lived here 10 years now and loved it http://www.theartworks.co

what’s hanging around the port city

galleryguide Artfuel.inc

2165 Wrightsville Ave. Mon. - Sat., noon - 7pm www.artfuelinc.com • (910) 343-5233 Artfuel is pleased to host Vol. 42, featuring work by Dennis Schaffer, Kyle Page, Mimi Logothetis, and Tuki Lucero. Hangs for eight weeks.

ArtExposure!

Art in bloom

210 Princess St. Tues. - Sat. 10 am - 6 pm (or by appt., Sun. and Mon.) (484) 885-3037 www.aibgallery.com Established in 2015, the Art in Bloom Gallery is in a renovated, 19th-century horse stable at 210 Princess Street in downtown Wilmington. The gallery focuses upon international and national fine art.

The current exhibit of oil paintings, “Debra Bucci: Living in the Moment”, runs through May 27th. Join us for receptions in April: 1) “Courtyard Opening and Celebration of Sculpted Gate by Dumay Gorham,” Sunday, April 17th, 2-5 pm; 2) Fourth Friday Gallery Night, April 22nd, 6 - 9 pm; and 3) Art Opening for DREAMS students, Friday, April 29th, 6 - 8 pm.

CRESCENT MOON ART AND STYLE

24 N. Front St. • (910) 762-4207 Call for new hours or appointment!

This Fourth Friday, join the community of Wilmington to celebrate the Life & Art of Linda A. Hartman. Tommy J is back, too— featuring his beautiful and limited sterling silver Galion “Hook and Double Hook Bracelets” and designer jewelry. Alos presenting Papa Froosh as our musical artist, a duo, here at “The Moon”!

201 Princess St. (919) 343-8997 Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) www.newelementsgallery.com Striking A Balance is open at New Elements Gallery. This exhibit features new works from printmaker Donald Furst and painter Bob Rankin. Both artists share a clean, linear aestheric, but they differ in palette. Furst works predominately in black and white where Rankin plays with primary hues. Striking A Balance will remain on view until April 16, 2016.

River to Sea Gallery

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

“Morning Has Broken” features works by Janet Parker. Come see Janet’s bold use of color and texture to reveal local marsh creeks and structures.

SUNSET RIVER Marketplace

10283 Beach Dr., SW (NC 179) (910) 575-5999 • Tues.- Sat. 10 am - 5 pm www.sunsetrivermarketplace.com In the historic fishing village of Calabash, NC, over 10,000-plus square feet of fine arts is showcased. Clay art and pottery; oil paintings, watercolors, mixed media, pastels and acrylics; plus award-winning metalworks, wood pieces, hand-blown glass, fiber art, artisan-made jewelry and more.

Sunset River Marketplace has become a popular destination for visitors, a gathering place for artists and a center of the community, thanks to its onsite pottery studio, complete with two kilns; a custom master framing department; and art classrooms for workshops and ongoing instruction.

on Paper. The exhibition will run through March 24th, 2016. Bob Bryden’s work exists comfortably within the traditions of minimalism and optical art. Subject is reduced to the essential elements of point, line, and plane. Visual dialogue emerges from the layering of color field and pattern. Bryden’s work creates the impression of movement and contains hidden images, undulating surfaces and conflicting perspectives.

Bob grew up in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. He is a graduate of Guilford College in Greensboro, NC, and received a masters degree in art from the University of Louisville in Kentucky. Contact Sarah Rushing at srushing278@mail.cfcc.edu.

! s l a de .com

22527 Highway 17N, Hampstead, NC (910) 803-0302 • (910) 330-4077 Tues. - Sat. 10 am - 5 pm (or by appt.) www.artexposure50.com We have over forty NC artists here at ArtExposure. Come visit and view the work.

Artists may rent wall space and/or studio space. Come meet the artists working in their studios. A Plein Air Workshop with Karen Crenshaw on beautiful Topsail Island will be held April 21st, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th. Details can be found on our website.

Deadline to sign up is March 31st. Check our website for more available classes.

New Elements Gallery

BrooklynArtsNC.com 910-538-2939

FREE PARKING • CASH BAR • ATM ON SITE Visit our website and join our mailing list for event announcements.

516 North 4th Street | Historic Downtown Wilmington, NC

WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY

200 Hanover Street, CFCC parking deck First level Tues.- Fri., 10am - 5:30pm; Sat., noon - 5:30pm (910) 362-7431 CFCC’s Wilma W. Daniels Gallery is pleased to present Bob Bryden: Works

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arts>>film

reel to reel

Double-Feature Failures:

films this week

‘Allegiant’ and ‘Pee-wee’s Big Holiday’ are copy/paste jobs

cinematique

Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St.

D

by: Anghus

o sequels suck? It’s a question that seems to pop up more frequently in a cinematic world where sequels, prequels, reboots, and re-imaginings happen with greater frequency. I used to love sequels. I got into an excellent conversation the other day about gonzo sequels from the 1980s and 1990s at a time where a followup movie wasn’t just a copy/paste job. Modern sequels seem to be nothing more than a copy of originals with everything amplified.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” or “Anchorman 2: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” are prime examples. There was very little about these films that could be described as “new.” “The Force Awakens” was a retread original “Star Wars” with a fresh new coat of paint. “Anchorman 2” was the same characters wearing out the same tired gags.

The best sequels are ones that take root concepts and go bananas, like “Alien 3,” “Robocop 2” and “Predator 2.” They resembled the originals, but they went buck wild with the plot, and took it in a different (and often polarizing) direction. A good sequel doesn’t bother with carrying over baggage from the original, nor copying the rhythms and plot points. This is why most modern sequels kind of suck.

“Allegiant” is the latest installment in “The Divergent” series, another young-adult book adaptation that feels like it cribbed most of the rules from “Harry Potter.” Instead of “houses” like Gryffindor or Slytherin, there are “factions,” like Candor and Dauntless.

The central plot revolves around a bunch of young people coming to terms with their power and role in an ever-changing world. “Allegiant” and the strikingly similar “Maze Runner” series feel like the bastard spawn of “Harry Potter” and “The Hunger Games”—like if Harry and Katniss made the beast with two backs and then decided they weren’t ready for kids.

Once again we meet up with Tris (Shailene Woodley), the super-special young lady who may be the key to saving the world or something. After defeating the despotic regime of Janeen, Tris and company have to deal with the aftermath and a vacuum of power.

Our young heroes are still hellbent on discovering what lies beyond the wall. After two films of questioning, they finally make their way to “the fringe” and discover the outside world might be just as unwelcoming as the dystopian city they left behind. “Allegiant” is

$8-$10, 7pm • www.thalianhall.org

March 28-April 1 (additional showing March 30 at 4 p.m.): Playing in the Ruth and Bucky Stein Theatre in honor of Wilmington Fashion Week is “Dior and I.” Frédéric Tcheng’s solo directorial debut brings viewers inside Christian Dior’s fashion house with behind-the-scenes looks at Raf Simons’ first haute couture collection as its new artistic director. It’s who serve Simons’ vision. (Rated R, 90 mins)

DOUBLE DOWN: ‘Allegiant’ is one of two flicks that fall flat this week. Courtesy photo.

pretty much the same course served up by the first two films in the series. It’s dumbeddown science-fiction where every twist and reveal is so obvious only toddlers with attention deficit disorder would be surprised.

Then again, toddlers with ADD probably would stop watching after the first film. How I envy them.

“Pee-wee’s Big Holiday” is exactly the kind of problematic sequel I mentioned earlier: a copy/paste sequel of the far more brilliant and entertaining “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure”—arguably one of the greatest films ever made. Once again, we meet the eccentric Pee-wee Herman. Once again the movie’s plot hinges on a road trip and oddball cast of characters he meets along the way. Once again the movie starts with an elaborate Rube Goldberg machine that gets Pee-wee on his way. “Holiday” is “The Force Awakens” of the Pee-wee Herman universe: nothing more than a different version of the same road-trip plot. That’s not to say it’s not entertaining.

It’s still fun to see Pee-wee (Paul Reubens) and his childish shenanigans on this nostalgic romp. But after so long removed from this character and world, I was a little disappointed to be taken on almost the exact same journey as before.

For some reason movie producers think sequels have to take us on the same trip with only minor changes in scenery. It’s the safest of safe bets; it’s creatively bankrupt. I must have watched the first “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” two dozen times, but “Pee-wee’s Holiday” won’t require any repeat viewings.

It’s just a carbon copy.

Both “Allegiant” and “Pee-wee’s Big Holiday” are about as interesting as that last sentence.

DETAILS: Allegiant

★★★★★

Rated PG-13 Starring Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Jeff Daniels Directed by Robert Schwentke Pee-wee’s Big Holiday (Available on Netflix)

★ ★ 1/2 ★ ★

Not Rated Starring Paul Reubens, Jordan Black, Doug Cox Directed by John Lee

April 4-8 (additional showing April 6 at 4 p.m.): Also playing in the Ruth and Bucky Stein Theatre, “Mustang is set in a remote Turkish village, with five teenage sisters (Günes Sensoy, Tugba Sunguroglu, Elit Iscan). Their fierce love for each other emboldens them to rebel against their family and chase a future where they can determine their own lives. “Mustang” was an official selection of the 2015 Cannes Film Festival Directors’ Fortnight and has been nominated for the Best Foreign Film Academy Award.

(Rated PG-13, 97 mins)

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WILMINGTON - 5740 Oleander Drive • (910) 392-4501 SURF CITY - Hwy. 210 • (910) 328-1010 CAROLINA BEACH - Hwy 421 & Winner Ave • (910) 458-9047 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 19

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southeastern nc’s premier dining guide

grub & guzzle

tropical smoothie cafÉ • www.tropicalsmoothie.com

American BLUEWATER waterfront grill

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of sailing ships and the Intracoastal Waterway while dining at this popular casual American restaurant in Wrightsville Beach. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Favorites include jumbo lump crab cakes, succulent seafood lasagna, crispy coconut shrimp and an incredible Caribbean fudge pie. Dine inside or at their awardwinning outdoor patio and bar, which is the location for their lively Waterfront Music Series every Sunday April - October.

Large parties welcome. Private event space available. BluewaterDining.com. 4 Marina Street, Wrightsville Beach, NC. (910) 256-8500.

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

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

Blue surf cafÉ

Sophisticated Food…Casual Style. We offer a menu that has a heavy California surf culture influence while still retaining our Carolina roots. We provide a delicate balance of flavors and freshness in a comfortable and inviting setting. We offer a unique breakfast menu until noon daily, including specialty waffles, skillet hashes and unique breakfast sandwiches. Our lunch menu is packed with a wide variety of options, from house roasted pulled pork, to our mahi sandwich and customer favorite, meatloaf sandwich.

Our dinner features a special each night along with our favorite house entrees: Braised Beef Brisket, Mojo Pork and Mahi. All of our entrees are as delicious as they are inventive.

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily Specials, Gluten Free Menu, Gourmet

Hot Chocolates, Outdoor Patio, New Artist event first Friday of every month and Kids Menu.

■ WEBSITE: www.bluesurfcafe.com

CAM cafÉ

CAM Café, located within the CAM delivers delightful surprises using fresh, local ingredients with a Chef Jessica Cabo twist. Awarded “Best Food” by the local Wilmington Food & Wine Festival. Under her influence the café serves a West Coast interpretation of local dishes. The café serves lunch with seasonal options Tuesday thru Saturday, Internationally inspired Tapas on Wednesday nights, elegant yet approachable dinner on Thursday and brunch every Sunday.

Look for a New England Lobster Roll in the summer and Miso Short ribs as winter evening signature dishes. As part of dining in an inspiring setting, the galleries are open during CAM Café hours which makes it the perfect destination to enjoy art of the plate and art of the museum. 3201 S 17th St. (910) 777-2363.

■ SERVING LUNCH, BRUNCH & DINNER: Hours: Tues-Sat 11 am– 3 pm; Wed./Thurs 5 – 9 pm; Sunday Brunch 10 am – 3 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.camcafe.org

the district kitchen & Cocktails

A new addition to the Brooklyn Arts and downtown area, The District Kitchen & Cocktails is serving fresh, seasonal menus in a polished casual atmosphere. We feature locally sourced ingredients when available. For lunch, we offer delicious burgers and sandwiches, while dinner features steaks, chops and seafood all handcrafted by executive chef Chris Corona. Within blocks of CFCC and the Riverwalk, The District welcomes diners to enjoy inspired wines, craft cocktails and NC draught beers at their renovated bar and restaurant, located at 1001 N. 4th St. 910-796-6565 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues.-Thurs.11am-9pm, Fri.-Sat., 11am-10pm. Lunch menu served ‘til 4pm.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Brooklyn Arts District ■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/thedistrictnc

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elijah’s

Since 1984, Elijah’s has been Wilmington, NC’s outdoor dining destination. We feature expansive indoor and outdoor waterfront dining, with panoramic views of riverfront sunsets.

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

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

eternal sunshine cafÉ

Wilmington’s new unique restaurant, Eternal Sunshine Café, is conveniently located between downtown and Wrightsville Beach, also close to UNCW. It is a great spot to savor a gourmet breakfast, like cinna-swirl pancakes with coffee cream cheese syrup or a southwest benedict with chipotle hollandaise on a made from scratch biscuit. The lunch menu is filled with fresh delectable salads, sandwiches on house baked breads, and pitas. Come experience the innovative twist on breakfast classics and a casual lunch guaranteed to make you a regular customer. May the tranquility of Eternal Sunshine Cafe’s atmosphere shine upon your face and reinvigorate your day. Serves breakfast all day.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH: MondayWednesday 7-2, Thursday-Friday 6:30-2, Saturday 7-2, Sunday 8-2 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.eternalsunshinecafe.com

HENRY’S

A local favorite, Henry’s is the ‘place to be’ for great food, a lively bar and awesome patio dining. Henry’s serves up American cuisine at its finest that include entrees with fresh, local ingredients. Come early for lunch, because it’s going to be packed. Dinner too!

Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to

30 people. 2508 Independence Boulevard, Wilmington, NC. (910) 793.2929.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.

■ WEBSITE: www.henrysrestaurant.com

Holiday Inn Resort

Oceans Restaurant located in this oceanfront resort is a wonderful find. This is the perfect place to enjoy a fresh Seafood & Steak dinner while dinning outside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Chef Eric invites you to experience his daily specials in this magnificent setting. (910) 256-2231. 1706 N. Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Sat. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Waterfront dining ■ WEBSITE: www.holidayinn.com

HOPS SUPPLY CO.

The combination of chef-inspired food and our craft bar makes Hops Supply Co. a comfortable and inviting gastropub that attracts guests of all types – especially a local crowd who can feel right at home whether ordering a classic favorite or trying a new culinary delight! At HopsCo, we are dedicated to the craft of excellent cuisine and delivering hops in its most perfect form, exemplified by our selection of craft beers. As hops are the heart of flavor for beer, our local seasonal ingredients are the soul of our culinary inspired American fare. 5400 Oleander Dr. (910) 833-8867.

■ OPEN: Mon-Thurs 10:57 am - 10 pm; Fri-Sat 10:57 am - 11 pm {Serving Brunch 10:57am – 3pm & bar open until midnight}; Brunch ALL DAY Sunday 9:57am – 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.hopssupplycompany.com

JohnnyLukes KitchenBar

Good eats, good drinks, and great times is what JohnnyLukes KitchenBar is all about. JohnnyLukes KitchenBar serves Wilmington, NC a variety of 19 rotating craft beers on tap, a hand selected eclectic American wine list, fun cock-

tails, and of course, exceptional food. Our two-story layout brings the best of both worlds under one roof. Downstairs at JohnnyLukes KitchenBar pair your beer or wine with our Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop, Chicken Pot Pie, Ribeye, or one of our many main entrees and sharable plates. Or, join us upstairs at JL’s Loft and pair a beer with one of our multiple burgers, JL’s roast beef sandwich, meatball sandwich, or one of our many appetizers (we recommend both!). So next time you are looking for a new and exciting restaurant in Wilmington, NC where you can experience both great craft beer and amazing food, be sure to head over to JohnnyLukes KitchenBar and JL’s Loft! 5500 Market Street, Suite 130. (910)-769-1798 ■ OPEN: JohnnyLukes KitchenBar: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 10pm; JL’s Loft: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 2am ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.johnnylukeskb.com

The little dipper

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

■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; Seasonal hours are open 7 days a week, Memorial Day through October

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Tasting menu every Tues. with small plates

from $1-$4; Ladies Night every Wed; $27 4-course prix fixe menu on Thurs.; “Date night menu,” $65/couple with beer and wine tasting every Fri. and half price bottles of wine on Sun. ■ MUSIC: Mondays and Memorial Day-October, 7-9pm ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com

low tide pub

Located across from UNCW’s campus, Low Tide Pub serves up delicious fare and great drink specials in a fun atmosphere. Enjoy the biggest and best wings in town for only $0.50 on Sundays, a $5 daily lunch special, $2 daily beer special, and even taco Tuesdays. Their Mother Clucker is served just in time for the holidays: slow-roasted chicken with cranberries, housemade stuffing, lettuce, and tomato.

Their Thai or Buffalo shrimp wrap, famed Monte Cristo and 1945-family secret cheesecake recipe will keep customers coming back for more. Karaoke Saturdays begin at 9:30 p.m., and trivia Tuesdays get underway weekly at 7:30 p.m.

Low Tide has a beautiful, private deck, perfect for hosting parties and events. It’s midtown Wilmington’s favorite pub— ”where on the rocks is a good thing.” 4540 Fountain Drive, beside of PT’s. 910-313-2738.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER AND LATE-NIGHT: Mon., 6 p.m. - 1 a.m.; Tues.-Thurs., 11 a.m. - 1 a.m.; Fri., 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.; Sat., noon - 2 a.m.; Sun., noon - 9 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown Wilmington, near UNCW ■ FEATURING: Daily specials, Saturday karaoke and Tuesday trivia night.

■ WEBSITE: www.lowtidepub.com

pine valley market

Pine Valley Market has reigned supreme in servicing the Wilmington community for years, securing encore’s Best-Of awards in catering, gourmet shop and butcher. Now, Kathy Webb and Christi Ferretti are expanding their talents into serving lunch in-house, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy ambience of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to childhood. Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is something for all palates. Take advantage of their take-home frozen meals for nights that are too hectic to cook, and don’t forget to pick up a great bottle of wine to go with it. 3520 S. College Road, (910) 350-FOOD. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri.10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sun. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials and take-home frozen meals ■ WEBSITE: www.pinevalleymarket.com

the pub

A true public house. A gathering place. In house fresh ground burgers made with short rib, brisket and chuck on Sweet n Savory’s, made from scratch, bread along with 40 other sandwiches and meals under $12. 32 beers on tap, friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere where you can hang out with friends and enjoy live music, your favorite NFL

game or the BEST burger you’ll ever eat! 2012 Eastwood Road, Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 679-8101, Hours: 11am-2am ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Causeway ■ WEBSITE: www.sweetnsavorypub.com

spicoli

“In crust we trust.” Spicoli specializes in classic NY style pizza with a totally unconventional (AND DELICIOUS) sourdough crust. We also feature one-of-a-kind burger creations, Jumbo wings complete with our perfect, house-made blue cheese or ranch. Or enjoy any of our unique vegan or glutenfree options. But Spicoli is not just amazing food. We keep it awesome with a killer juke box, classic arcade games, and great deals on everything at our full bar. Share some brews over PacMan or enjoy the area’s only 20in pie on our outdoor patio. Just make sure you are having fun. Don’t worry!! If you can’t come see us, we also have the largest delivery radius in town!! 1978 Eastwood Road, (910) 256-0339.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach

sweet ‘n’ savory cafÉ

The Real Wizard Behind the Food. Anyone who has seen the Wizard of Oz knows that the wizard was just a scared old man hiding behind the curtain. Restaurants are no different.

Making incredible food is not magical or mystical and instead just requires heart (Tin Man), brains (Scarecrow), courage (Lion) and love (Dorothy). At Sweet n Savory we have pulled back the curtain because we don’t believe that we need smoke, mirrors, over inflated prices or pretentiousness to offer you the best and freshest food your money can buy. 1611

Downtown Wilmington > 115 N. 2nd Street

Book your next event at Ironclad Comfortably holds more than 400 people Stage, sound system & 12 ft. HDTV 2nd St parking deck is across the street No cost to use the space for events www.ironcladbrewery.com 910-769-0290

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Make Hells Kitchen your March Madness Headquarters! featuring all Carolina Teams on the Big Screen with Sound! great Food and Drink Specials All Tournament Long!

MARCH 2016 THANKS FOR VOTING HELL'S KITCHEN BEST WINGS IN WILMINGTON!

118 PRINCESS ST • DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON • FREE DOWNTOWN DELIVERY MON–FRI

AS SEEN ON DAWSON’S CREEK (910) 763-4133 • WWW.HELLSKITCHENBAR.COM • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 24 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

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

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

the trolly stop

Open for Lunch & Dinner

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Call us today!

910.762.4354

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In the Cotton Exchange • Downtown Wilmington • FREE PARKING

Trolly Stop Hot Dogs is a five-store franchise in Southeastern North Carolina. Since 1976 they have specialized in storemade chili, slaw and various sauces. As of more recently, select locations (Fountain Dr. and Southport) have started selling genuine burgers and cheese steaks (Beef & Chicken).

Our types of hotdogs include beef & Pork (Trolly Dog), allbeef, pork smoked sausage (Carolina Packer), Fat Free (Turkey) & Veggie. Recognized as having the Best Hot Dog in the Best of Wilmington Awards in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Call Individual Stores for hours of operation or check out our website at www.trollystophotdogs.com. Catering available, now a large portion of our business. All prices include tax. Call Rick at 297-8416 for catering and franchise information.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ LOCATIONS: Wilmington, Fountain Dr. (910) 452-3952

Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-3921 Southport (910) 457-7017 Boone, NC (828) 265-2658 Chapel Hill, NC (919) 240-4206 ■ WEBSITE: www.trollystophotdogs.com

Asian indochine restaurant & Lounge

If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Orient without having to leave Wilmington, join us at Indochine for a truly unique experience. Indochine brings the flavors of the Far East to the Port City, combining the best of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine in an atmosphere that will transport you and your taste buds. Relax in our elegantly decorated dining room, complete with antique Asian decor as well as contemporary artwork and music. Our diverse, friendly and efficient staff will serve you beautifully presented dishes full of enticing aromas and flavors. Be sure to try such signature items as the spicy and savory Roasted Duck with Red Curry, or the beautifully presented and delicious Shrimp and Scallops in a Nest. Be sure to save room for our world famous desert, the banana egg roll! We take pride in using only the freshest ingredients, and our extensive menu suits any taste. After dinner, enjoy specialty drinks by the koi pond in our Asian garden. Located at 7 Wayne Drive (beside the Ivy Cottage), (910) 251-9229.

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

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

kabuki korean cafÉ and sushi

Family-owned and operated, Kabuki Korean Café and Sushi is Wilmington’s only authentic Korean restaurant, freshly renovated and boasting a brand new menu! They feature delectable Korean BBQ, and are best known for traditional items like their bibimbop and bulgogi. But they also feature a large variety of Asian cuisine, from fresh sushi to fried rice to teriyaki dishes, dumplings, edamame and more. Open daily, Kabuki welcomes diners for lunch from 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and dinner 4:30 to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday. Stop by Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. 4102 Oleander Drive, Suite 2, at the corner of 41st Street, behind the Hess gas station. 910-350-3332.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER:

Mon-Fri, 11am-2:30pm; Sat-Sun, noon-10pm.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, off Oleander Drive.

■ FEATURING: Wilmington’s only authentic Korean restaurant!

■ WEBSITE: www.kabukikoreancafe.com

KYOTO ASIAN GRILLE

Kyoto Asian Grille specializes in crafting mouth-watering food and providing superb customer service. We serve a

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plethora of Asian cuisines, from Chinese to Japanese to Thai, and have an unwavering commitment to flavor. All of our ingredients are fresh, cooked to order, with artistic culinary flair. We also serve everything from sushi to traditional Chinese dishes, a plethora of curries to Pad Thai, hibachi and teriyaki dishes, and more. Come give us a try where you will find nothing in the freezer but the ice cream. Open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Saturday. Located at 4102 Market Street, (910) 332-3302.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon - Thu: 11am - 3pm and 5pm - 9:30pm or Fri - Sat, 11am - 3pm and 5pm - 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: An array of Asian cuisines, from Japanese to Chinese, Thai and more.

■ WEBSITE: www.kyotoasiangrille.com

Okami Japanese hibachi Steakhouse

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

Our goal is to utilize all resources, domestically and internationally, to ensure that we serve only the finest food products. We believe that good healthy food aids the vital functions for well-being, both physically and mentally. Our menu consists of a wide range of Steak, Seafood, and Chicken for the specially designed “Teppan Grill,” to the taste bud tingling Japanese Sushi, Hand Rolls, Sashimi, Tempura dishes and Japanese Noodle entrees. This offers our guests a complete Japanese dining experience. Check out our all you can eat sushi menu and daily specials at www.okamisteakhouse.com!

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday - Thursday 11am 2:30pm / 4pm - 10pm; Friday 11am - 2:30pm / 4pm - 11pm; Saturday 11am - 11pm; Sunday 11am - 9:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.okamisteakhouse.com

szechuan 132

Craving expertly prepared Chinese food in an elegant atmosphere? Szechuan 132 Chinese Restaurant is your destination! Szechuan 132 has earned the reputation as one of the finest contemporary Chinese restaurants in the Port City.

Tastefully decorated with an elegant atmosphere, with an exceptional ingenious menu has deemed Szechuan 132 the best Chinese restaurant for years, hands down. 419 South College Road (in University Landing), (910) 799-1426.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Lunch Specials ■ WEBSITE: www.szechuan132.com

thai spice

From the flavorfully mild to the fiery spiced, Thai Spice customers are wooed by the dish that’s made to their specifications. Featuring a tasteful menu of traditional Thai standards to numerous delectable house specials, it’s quickly becoming the local favorite for Thai cuisine. This family-run restaurant is sure to win you over. If you haven’t discovered this gem, come in and be charmed. Whether it be a daytime delight, or an evening indulgence, your visit will make you look forward to your return. Located in Monkey Junction at 5552 Carolina Beach Rd., Ste. G. (910) 791-0044.

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

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

yosake downtown sushi lounge

Lively atmosphere in a modern setting, Yosake is the delicious Downtown spot for date night, socializing with friends, or any large dinner party. Home to the never-disappointing Shanghai Firecracker Shrimp! In addition to sushi, we offer a full Pan Asian menu including curries, noodle dishes, and the ever-popular Crispy Salmon or mouth-watering Kobe Burger.

Inspired features change weekly showcasing our commitment to local farms. Full bar including a comprehensive sake list, signature cocktails, and Asian Import Bottles. 33 S. Front St., 2nd Floor (910) 763-3172.

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

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

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

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

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

Dinner Theatre theatrenow

TheatreNOW is a performing arts complex that features weekend dinner theater, an award-winning weekly kids variety show, monthly Sunday Jazz Brunches, movie, comedy and live music events. Award-winning chef, Denise Gordon, and a fabulous service staff pair scrumptious multi-course themed meals and cocktails with our dinner shows in a theatre-themed venue. Dinner theater at its best! Reservations highly suggested. 19 S. 10th Street (910) 399.3NOW (3669). Hours vary.

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

Healthy NEMA LOUNGE and EATERY

Open since the summer of 2015, NeMa Eatery and Lounge boasts the delicacies of Chef Borkowski. Serving bold flavors in a variety of menu items form grass-fed burgers to artisan pizzas to small plates, the NeMa team takes diners across the world through palate pleasing menu items, including their “fancy fries”, doused with truffles and Parmesan.

Borkowski takes pride in hand-crafted food, while the NeMa staff offers helpful, friendly knowledge. They offer vegan, gluten-and-allergy-friendly fare and Wine Down Wednesday (1/2 off glasses and bottles of wine). 225 S Water St. 910-769-3709 ■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER AND BRUNCH: Closed Monday, Tuesday 12pm -9pm, Wednesday-Friday 12pm -10pm, Saturday 10am - 10pm, Sunday 10am - 9pm, Brunch Saturday and Sunday 10am - 2pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown, Chandler’s Wharf ■ FEATURING: Worldly eats, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free items ■ WEBSITE: www.nemalounge.com

Indian kabob and grill

Welcome to Kabob and Grill, downtown Wilmington’s only fine Indian restaurant. Located on Water Street, overlooking the Cape Fear River, Kabob and Grill innovatesexotic flavors of Indian kabobs and curries. Kabobs are baked to perfection in our “tandoor” clay oven fresh, daily. We take pride in offering a great selection of vegetarian entrees made with healthy spices, vegetables and herbs. We also serve vegan and gluten-free items, all aromatic and full of flavor. Our professional chef ensures our lavash and extensive menu appeals to all palates, whether choosing vegetarian, chicken, lamb, goat, or seafood. Our dining area is modern and upscale, yet steeped in Indian tradition. We have a full-service bar and are open seven days a week. We do take-out, delivery and welcome private parties. Live music and dance every Saturday. Please, check our website or facebook page for more information. www.kabobandgrilldowntown.com - 5 S. Water Street, (910) 833-5262.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Lunch Sunday through Saturday 11am-3pm. Dinner Sunday through Thursday 5-10pm, Friday & Saturday 5-10:30pm.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Innovative Indian recipes, made fresh daily.

■ WEBSITE: www.kabobandgrilldowntown.com

tandoori bites

Located on College Road, just opposite Hugh MacRae Park, Tandoori Bites offers fine Indian cuisine at affordable prices.

Try one of 74 dishes on their lengthy menu, featuring a large range of side dishes and breads. They have specialties, such as lamb korma with nuts, spices and herbs in a mild creamy sauce, as well as seafood, like shrimp biryani with saffron-flavored rice, topped with the shellfish and nuts. They also have many vegetarian dishes, including mutter paneer, with garden peas and homemade paneer, or baingan bharta with baked eggplant, flamed and sautéed with onions, garlic and ginger.

Join their cozy eatery, where a far east escape awaits all diners, among a staff of friendly and helpful servers, as well as chefs who bring full-flavored tastes straight from their homeland. Located at 1620 South College Road, (910) 794-4540.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon. - Fri. 11-2:30 pm (Lunch Buffet) & 5-10 pm (Dinner), Sat. - Sun. 11:30 -3:00 pm (Lunch) & 5-10 pm (Dinner) ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Lunch buffet ■ WEBSITE: www.tandooribites.net

irish Halligan’s public house

“Failte,” is the Gaelic word for “Welcome,” and at Halligan’s Public House it’s our “Motto.” Step into Halligan’s and enter a world of Irish hospitality where delicious food warms the heart and generous drinks lift the spirit. Be sure to try Halligan’s house specialty, “The Reuben,” number one with critics and of course our customers. One bite and you’ll understand why. Of course, we also serve a full selection of other delicious entrees including seafood, steak and pasta, as well as a wide assortment of burgers, sandwiches (Halligan’s Cheese Steak), and salads. And if you are looking for a friendly watering hole where you can raise a glass or two with friends, new and old, Halligan’s Public House boasts a comfortable bar where fun-loving bartenders hold court daily and blarney fills the air. Stop by Halligan’s Public House today, “When you’re at Halligan’s....you’re at home.” With 12 beers on tap and 16 flat screen TVs, you can watch your favorite game and enjoy your favorite drink. Enjoy two locatons: 3317 Masonboro Loop Rd., and 1900 Eastwood Rd. in Lumina Station.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 Days a Week Monday-Wednesday 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOODS: Masonboro Loop & Lumina Station ■ FEATURING: The Best Reuben in Town! $5.99 lunch specials, Outdoor Patio ■ WEBSITE: www.halligansnc.com

Eddie Romanelli’s is a family-friendly, casual Italian American restaurant that’s been a favorite of Wilmington locals for over 16 years. Its menu includes Italian favorites such as Mama Romanelli’s Lasagna, Baked Ziti, Rigatoni a la Vodka and, of course, made-from-scratch pizzas. Its American influences include tasty burgers, the U.S.A. Salad and a 16 oz. 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. 503 Olde Waterford Way, Leland. (910) 383.1885.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wilmington South/Leland ■ FEATURING: Weekly Specials ■ WEBSITE: www.RomanellisRestaurant.com

Fat Tony’s Italian Pub

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

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

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Thursday 11 am10 pm; Friday-Saturday 11 am-Midnight; Sunday Noon10 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.fatpub.com

■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials until 3pm and late night

menu from 11pm until closing.

mamma bella pizzeria

Mamma Bella’s is Wilmington’s latest pie palace, offering fresh and unique pizzas, strombolis, sandwiches, salads, wings, and more. Diners can enjoy eating in their quaint dining space or have Mamma deliver to their doorstep ($10 minimum, three-mile radius). Nothing is frozen, and everything is made with top-notch ingredients, from the house meatballs to the pesto, salad dressings to marinara sauce, and beyond! Mamma bakes bread fresh several times daily and helps produce the most scrumptious cinnamon and/or pizza knots. In fact, through Feb. 29, either flavor of knots are free with the purchase of any large pie; or customers can get 12 free wings when ordering two large 2 topping pizzas (dine-in or delivery; offers cannot be combined). With a knowledgeable staff providing excellent customer service—all of whom “respect the pie”—every order is cared for from placing it to picking it up. 3926 Market St. 910-399-6723.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon - Thurs 11am - 10pm; Fri - Sat 11am - 11pm; Sun 11am - 9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.mammabellapizzeria.com

Slice of life

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Downtown and Wilmington South.

■ FEATURING: The largest tequila selection in Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.grabslice.com

THE HARP

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

Regular menu to 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. weekends.

Join us for trivia at 8:30 on Thursdays and live music on Fridays – call ahead for schedule (910) 763-1607. Located just beside Greenfield Lake and Park at the south end of downtown Wilmington, The Harp is a lovely Irish pub committed to bringing traditional Irish flavor, tradition and hospitality to the Cape Fear area.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Greenfield Lake/Downtown South ■ FEATURING: Homemade soups, desserts and breads,

free open wifi, new enlarged patio area, and big screen TVs at the bar featuring major soccer matches worldwide.

■ WEBSITE: www.harpwilmington.com

Italian eddie romanelli’s

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a taste of italy

Looking for authentic Italian cuisine in the Port City? Look no further than A Taste of Italy Deli. Brothers, Tommy and Chris Guarino, and partner Craig Berner, have been serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner to local and visiting diners for twenty years. The recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, and after one bite you feel like you’re in your mamas’ kitchen. Along with the hot and cold lunch menu, they also carry a large variety of deli sides and madefrom-scratch desserts. Or, if you’re looking to get creative in your own kitchen, A Taste of Italy carries a wide selection of imported groceries, from pasta to olive oils, and everything in between. And last but certainly not least, allow them to help you make any occasion become a delicious Italian experience with their catering or call ahead ordering.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Friday 8:00am8:00pm, Saturday 8:30am-7:00pm, Sunday 11:00am6:00pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.ncatasteofitaly.com ■ FEATURING: Sclafani goods, Polly-O cheese, Ferrara Torrone and much, much more!

Jamaican JAMAICA’S COMFORT ZONE

Tucked in the corner of University Landing, a block from UNCW is the hidden gem of Wilmington’s international cuisine scene - Jamaica’s Comfort Zone. This family owned restaurant provides a relaxing blend of Caribbean delights – along with reggae music – served up with irrepressible smiles for miles. From traditional Jamaican breakfast to mouth-watering classic dishes such as curry goat, oxtail, jerk and curry chicken, to our specialty 4-course meals ($12.00) and $6.99 Student meal. Catering options are available.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tuesday - Saturday 11:45am - 9:00pm and Sunday 1:30pm - 8:00pm. Monday - Closed.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown – University Landing 417 S. College Road #24

Come enjoy the tropical flavors of Panama and Central America...from our fresh fish to our handmade empanadas, traditional arroz con pollo to fresh inspired salads, We hope you will be transported to simpler time with warm, friendly service, and festive vibe. Large selection of beer and wine, including red and white sangria, tropical mimosas, drink specials daily. Just before the bridge at Wrightsville Beach. 7210 Wrightsville Ave. (910) 256-3131.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & BRUNCH: Mon-Sat 11am9pm, Sunday Brunch 9am-3pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ WEBSITE: www.wbceviche.com

introduced eight new exclusive soft tacos as part of Taco Fiesta! They churn out mouth-watering enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, chef specialties, and more, in a colorfully inviting dining room marked by a friendly staff and attention to detail. Check out El Cerro’s daily drink and food specials at their three different locations, including $3.50 margaritas on Tuesdays off Military Road, on Wednesdays at 341 S. College Road, and on Thursdays at 5120 S. College Road.

Mondays feature fajita dinners for 10.99 at all locations, and they even have karaoke every Wednesday at 341 S. College Rd, starting at 6 p.m. Serving lunch and dinner daily.

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

■ LOCATIONS: 341 S. College Rd., 910-793-0035; 5120 S. College Rd., 910-790-8727; 1051 Military Cutoff Rd., 910-679-4209 ■ WEBSITE: www.elcerrogranderestaurant.com

san juan CafÉ

la costa mexican restaurant

■ FEATURING: Weekly Specials updated daily on Facebook ■ WEBSITE: www.jamaicascomfortzone.net

Latin American CEVICHE’S

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

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

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

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

Mexican EL CERRO GRANDE

In January, El Cerro Grande will celebrate 25 years serving authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine to the greater Wilmington area. With an ever-evolving menu, they have

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown and Ogden ■ WEBSITE: www.lacostamexicanrestauranwilmington.com

San Felipe Mexican Restaurant

At San Felipe, we pride ourselves in offering the best Mexican cuisine combined with a Mexican inspired dining experience that will instill a sense of “familia” with our patrons.

Ditch the regular fare and try one of our Mexican inspired favorites such as our sizzling Certified Angus Beef Fajitas or our Carolina Chimichanga. Visit any of our 10 North Carolina locations to see for yourself and while your at it, try one of our delicious Margaritas! See you soon Amigos!

Independence Mall, 3522 Oleander Dr - Wilmington, NC (910) 791-9277 and 1114 New Pointe Blvd - Leland, NC (910) 371-1188.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wilmington, Leland & Southport ■ WEBSITE: www.sanfelipenc.com

Organic lovey’s natural foods & cafÉ

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

The Juice Bar offers a wide variety of delicious juices and smoothies made with organic fruits and vegetables. Specializing in bulk sales of grains, flours, beans and spices at affordable prices. Lovey’s has a great selection of local produce and receives several weekly deliveries to ensure freshness. Lovey’s also carries organic grass-fed and freerange meats and poultry. wheat-free and gluten-free products are in stock regularly, as are vegan and vegetarian groceries. Lovey’s also carries Wholesome Pet Foods. Stop

by Lovey’s Market Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 am to 6 p.m..

Located at 1319 Military Cutoff Rd in the Landfall Shopping Center; (910) 509-0331. “You’ll Love it at Lovey’s!”

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.loveysmarket.com

dishes. Relax on the pier or dine inside. Oceanic is also the perfect location for memorable events, such as wedding ceremonies & receptions, birthday gatherings, anniversary parties and more. Large groups welcome. Private event space available. 703 S. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach. (910) 256.5551.

whole foods market

Seafood

The Pilot House Restaurant is Wilmington’s premier seafood and steak house with a touch of the South. We specialize in local seafood and produce. Featuring the only Downtown bar that faces the river and opening our doors in 1978, The Pilot House is the oldest restaurant in the Downtown area. We offer stunning riverfront views in a newly-renovated relaxed, casual setting inside or on one of our two outdoor decks.

Join us for $5.00 select appetizers 7 days a week and live music every Friday and Saturday nigh on our umbrella deck.

Large parties welcome. Private event space available. 910343-0200 2 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm, FriSat 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. Kids menu ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Riverfront Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Fresh local seafood specialties, Riverfront Dining, free on-site parking ■ MUSIC: Outside Every Friday and Saturday ■ WEBSITE: www.pilothouserest.com

catch

SHUCKIN’ SHACK

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

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week. Monday - Sunday. 8am - 9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Seasonal, healthy, organic, vegan/vegetarian ■ WEBSITE: www.wholefoodsmarket.com

Serving the Best Seafood in South Eastern North Carolina.

Wilmington’s Native Son, 2011 James Beard Award Nominee, 2013 Best of Wilmington “Best Chef” winner, Chef Keith Rhodes explores the Cape Fear Coast for the best it has to offer. We feature Wild Caught & Sustainably raised Seafood. Organic and locally sourced produce & herbs provide the perfect compliment to our fresh Catch. Consecutively Voted Wilmington’s Best Chef 2008, 09 & 2010.

Dubbed “Modern Seafood Cuisine” we offer an array Fresh Seafood & Steaks, including our Signature NC Sweet Potato Salad. Appetizers include our Mouth watering “Fire Cracker” Shrimp, Crispy Cajun Fried NC Oysters & Blue Crab Claw Scampi, & Seafood Ceviche to name a few. Larger Plates include, Charleston Crab Cakes, Flounder Escovitch & Miso Salmon. Custom Entree request gladly accommodated for our Guest. (Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergies) Hand-crafted seasonal desserts. Full ABC Permits. 6623 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28405, 910-799-3847.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Acclaimed Wine List ■ WEBSITE: www.catchwilmington.com

Dock Street oyster bar

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

(910) 762-2827.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week.

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

■ WEBSITE: www.dockstreetoysterbar.net

oceanic

Voted best seafood restaurant in Wilmington, Oceanic provides oceanfront dining at its best. Located in Wrightsville Beach, Oceanic is one of the most visited restaurants on the beach. Choose from a selection of seafood platters, combination plates and daily fresh fish. For land lovers, try their steaks, chicken or pasta

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & SUNDAY BRUNCH:

Mon – Sat 11am – 11pm, Sunday 10am – 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Dining on the newly renovated Crystal Pier.

■ WEBSITE: www.OceanicRestaurant.com

The pilot house

Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar has two locations in the Port City area. The original Shack is located in Carolina Beach at 6A N. Lake Park Blvd. (910-458-7380) and our second location is at 109 Market Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington (910-833-8622). The Shack is the place you want to be to catch your favorite sports team on 7 TV’s carrying all major sports packages. A variety of fresh seafood is available daily including oysters, shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab legs. Shuckin’ Shack has expanded its menu now offering fish tacos, crab cake sliders, fried oyster po-boys, fresh salads, and more. Come in and check out the Shack’s daily lunch, dinner, and drink specials. It’s a Good Shuckin’ Time!

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

■ WEBSITE: www.TheShuckinShack.com

smoothies and more Tropical smoothie cafÉ

Tropical Smoothie Café’s menu boasts bold, flavorful food and smoothies with a healthy appeal, all made to order from the freshest ingredients. Our toasted wraps, sandwiches, flatbreads and gourmet salads are made fresh with highest quality of meats and cheeses, topped with fresh produce and flavorful sauces, available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The fun atmosphere and unparalleled hospitality brings customers back to Tropical Smoothie Café again and again. At Tropical Smoothie, we are guided by one simple belief: When you eat better, you feel better and when you feel better, all is better. It’s part of our mission to inspire a healthier lifestyle by serving amazing food and smoothies with a bit of tropical fun. 2804 S. College Road, Long Leaf Mall. (910) 769-3939.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mon-Fri; 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sat-Sun

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■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, at Shipyard Blvd. and College Rd. ■ WEBSITE: www.tropicalsmoothie.com

Southern Casey’s Buffet

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.caseysbuffet.com

Rx Restaurant & bar

Located in downtown Wilmington, Rx Restaurant and Bar is

.com

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

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

pembroke’s

A seasonally inspired and locally sourced Southern cuisine dining experience, Pembroke’s was created by the owners of downtown’s Rx Restaurant. Pembroke’s focuses on the same values and excellent service as its sister restaurant, purveying local companies for the best in seafood, proteins and produce.

They work with local fisherman and farmers to ensure your meal will be freshly grown and hand chosen. A new dinner menu is churned out daily to ensure the chefs are working with the freshest ingredients. Plus, the bartenders are creating new drink menus daily as to never bore your taste buds. 1125 A Military Cutoff Rd. 910-239-9153.

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

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

Sports Bar Carolina Ale House

Voted best new restaurant AND best sports bar of 2010 in Wilmington, Carolina Ale House is the place to be for awardwinning food, sports and fun. Located on College Rd. near UNC W, this lively sports-themed restaurant. Covered and open outdoor seating is available. Lunch and dinner specials

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are offered daily, as well as the coldest $2 and $3 drafts in town. 317 South College Road. (910) 791.9393.

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.CarolinaAleHouse.com

dig and dive

A new way to play with your food.” It isn’t just a catch phrase—it is what we do at Dig & Dive. Locally sourced, high-quality food is what we bring to the table. From our specialty “pork wings,” tossed in our famed bourbon-barrell Kentuckyaki sauce, to our fresh ground chuck burgers, to our dogs and sausages, and even salads and kids menu, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We pair it with an expansive craft beer selection—including a large selection of NC brewed beers—and we give you the most unique and fun atmosphere in Wilmington, thanks to our soft-sand volleyball courts, outdoor and indoor dining. Hands down, we’re the best place in town to ... Eat. Drink. Play. 3525 Lancelot Lane. 910-202-9350.

■ SERVING LUNCH & Dinner: Sun.-Thurs., 11am-midnight; Fri.-Sat., 11am-2am.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, off Market Street and Darlington ■ FEATURING: Burgers, dogs, build-your-own French fries, sandwiches, craft beer, volleyball courts.

■ WEBSITE: www.DigandDive.com

hell’s kitchen

This is downtown Wilmington’s Sports Pub! With every major sporting package on ten HDTVs and our huge HD projection screen, there is no better place to catch every game in every sport. Our extensive menu ranges from classics, like thick Angus burgers 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, the atmosphere and friendly service will turn you into a regular. Open late 7 days a week, with free WiFi, pool, and did we mention sports?

Free downtown lunchtime delivery on weekdays; we can accommodate large parties. (910) 763-4133.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & ■ LATE NIGHT: 11 a.m.-2 a.m. daily ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: 1/2 priced select appetizers Monday

- Thursday 4-7 p.m.

■ WEBSITE: www.hellskitchenbar.com

vegetarian/Vegan sealevel restaurant

Shop for gifts while you’re waiting on your to-go order or for the cook to fix your food. How about a lentil patty melt with fresh, handcut potato chips or a crisp salad for lunch?

If you’re looking for a high-fiber plate, we’ve got you covered: the brown-rice tortilla—which is gluten free, vegan and chockful of crunchy vegetables and creamy smoky eggplant spread and avocado—will surely suit you! With a side of creole-spiced organic red beans or our superb vegan purple coleslaw, it will be over the top! Vegan heaven exists: We serve sushi rolls and desserts especially to suit your preferences. Seafood lovers are mad about the shrimp burger, soft crab slider and the frequently featured Caribbean-spiced shrimp tostada, which combines the aforementioned purple slaw, spicy Jerk sauce, and cool avocado, and organic refried lentils on a crispy corn tortilla. Please stop in for lunch six days (not Tuesday/closed) from 11 am to 2 pm, and dinner Thursday through Saturday, 5 pm to 9 pm 1015 S. Kerr Ave. 910-833-7196.

■ SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., daily; Thurs-Sat., 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Closed Tuesdays ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, near UNCW ■ FEATURING: Vegetarian,Vegan, Seafood, Gluten-Free ■ WEBSITE: www.sealevelcitygourmet.com

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

BEST FLORIST 2016

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

900 S Kerr Ave • Wilmington, NC 28403 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 31

grub & guzzle>>FEATURE

eat. drink. indulge!

Encore Restaurant Week spring participants and offers

Featured Restaurant: The District Kitchen & Cocktails

RESTAURANT

■ DOWNTOWN ■ NORTH WILMINGTON ■ MIDTOWN ■ WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH ■ SOUTH WILMINGTON Includes vegetarian options Includes alcohol

eek of The most deliciotsusnwow! spring star

CUISINE

OFFER

■

Elijah’s

Seafood

2-Course Lunch: $18 per person / 3-Course Dinner: $30 per person

■

The Basics

Southern

3-Course Dinner for Two: $65 (Comes with a bottle of wine)

■

The Little Dipper

Fondue

4-Course Dinner: $25 per person

■

The George on the Riverwalk

Seafood

3-Course Lunch: $20 per person / 3-Course Dinner: $30 per person

■

The Pilot House

Seafood

3-Course Lunch: $16.95 per person / 3-Course Dinner: $28.95 per person

■

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

■

Shuckin’ Shack

Steak House Seafood

3-Course Dinner: $35 per person Lunch Special: $8.99 per person / Dinner Specials: Select Apps. $6.99, Soup Features - Cup $2.99 / Bowl $4.99 & Select Dinner Features $12.99 - $29.99

■

Riverboat Landing

■

Yo Sake

■

Fork 'n' Cork

■

Kabob and Grill

Indian

4-Course Dinner: $20 per person

■

Circa 1922

French

3-Course Dinner: $24.95 per person

■

Caprice Bistro

■

NeMa Eatery & Lounge

■

The District Kitchen & Cocktails American

2-Course Lunch: $10 per person / 3-Course Dinner: $25 per person

■

The Melting Pot

4-Course Special: $30 per person

32 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

Southern

3-Course Dinner: $25 per person

Sushi

4-Course Dinner: $25 per person

American

Fine Dining American

Fondue

3-Course Meal for Two: $36

3-Course Prix Fixe Special: $29.95 per person 4-Course Meal: $25 per person / 4-Course Vegan Meal: $20 per person

RESTAURANT

CUISINE

■

Nawab Fine Indian Cuisine

■

Eternal Sunshine Café

■

Osteria Cicchetti

■■

■

Might as Well Bar & Grill

American

■

Sealevel City Gourmet

Vegetarian

■

Carolina Ale House

Sports Pub

Indian American Italian

La Costa Mexican Restaurant Mexican

■

Casey’s Buffet

Southern

OFFER 3-Course Dinner: $50 per couple 3-Course Breakfast: $10 per person / 3-Course Dinner: $40 per couple 3-Course Prix Fixe: $21.95 per person 3-Course Meal: $25 per couple

Lunch for One: $7.75 / Dinner for One: $17.99 Special Limited Menu: $7.25 - $11.99 (Choose from Buffalo Chicken Queso Dip, Pork Belly Sliders or Boneless Wings) Adult Dinner Buffet: $11.99 per person / Seniors (62+): $10.99 / Kids (4-12) $5.99/

Kids 3 & Under FREE

■

Kyoto Asian Grill

Asian

3-Course Special for Two: $33

■

Hops Supply Co.

American

■

Jamaica’s Comfort Zone

Caribbean

■

Mamma Bella Pizzeria

Italian

4-Course Meal & Beverage: $17 per person Specials: 8” - 1 Topping Pizza & Pizza Knots: $6.25 + tax / 16” - 2 Topping Pizza, 6 Wings, Large Sunday Salad & Cinnamon Knots

■

A Taste of Italy

■

Dig & Dive

■

Okami Japanese Steakhouse

Hibachi

3-Course Dinner: $24 per person

■

Tandoori Bites

Indian

3-Course Dinner: $45 per couple

■

Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant Seafood

■ ■ El

■

Cerro Grande

American

Mamma Bella Pizzeria

3-Course Dinner: $17.99 per person

Italian

Carolina Ale House

3-Course Special: $19.99 per couple

Wedge Special: $9.50 per person

Casey’s Buffet

Any 2 Burgers with fries or home fried chips: $15

4-Course Dinner: $25 per person

Mexican

3-Course Meal: $25 per couple

Bluewater Grill

Seafood

2-Course Lunch: $12.99 per person / 3-Course Dinner: $24 per person

■

Oceanic

Seafood

2-Course Lunch: $11.99 per person / 3-Course Dinner: $39.99 per couple

■

Spicoli

American

Any Specialty Burger: $8 / 4-Course Dinner: $30 per couple

■

East Oceanfront Dining

Seafood

2-Course Lunch: $20 per person / Prix Fixe Dinner: $30 per person

■

Boca Bay

Seafood

3-Course Prix Fixe Special: $24.95 per person

■

The Pub

American

Two for $25 - Per couple - Full menu available

■

Sweet n Savory

American

4-Course VIP Special: $54.95 per couple

■

Beach Bagels

American

Restaurant Week Specials & Lunch Combos: $4.99 - $7.49

■

Osteria Cicchetti II

Italian

3-Course Prix Fixe: $21.95 per person

■

Siena Trattoria

Italian

3-Course Lunch: $9.99 per person / 3-Course Dinner: $22 per person

■

Henry’s

Might as Well Bar & Grill

El Cerro Grande

Seafood/Amercian 3-Course Dinner: $24.99 per person Boca Bay encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 33

extra>>best of 2016

marching on with the best: Revealing the winners during week three of encore’s 2016 Reader’s Poll

by: js CARVER & Sr GENTRY

W

ho has the best pizza? Where is the best place to buy a new car? Who carries the best shoes in town? Where is the best place to take a first date? They’re questions we all struggle with in life, but thank goodness for encore’s annual Best Of poll! We’re here to make your decisions a little easier in the coming year.

For more than 25 years, encore’s annual Best Of Wilmington has been leading folks in all kinds of directions on where to spend their money locally, who to support in the arts, as well as who to trust in everything from local media to nonprofits.

To put it simply: encore holds the official “Best Of” moniker, and our readers’ opinions matter a whole bunch!

In 2016, we culled over 20,000 voices to weigh in on the Best Of Wilmington.

Nominations opened in mid-November and closed mid-December 2015, before final voting began and closed mid-January 2016. The community-at-large cast their favorites through our online voting system, featuring over 130 categories.

At encore we try to be as fair as possible with our Best Of poll, and while we allow local businesses and groups to campaign so their patrons/fans will vote for them, we do lay a few ground rules in campaigning practices. No, we’re not the NC Board of Elections but we want to play fair.

1) No stuffing the ballot box!

Don’t vote under multiple email addresses, or encourage customers and employees to do so. If you have a list of email addresses that don’t belong to you, please, don’t fill out ballots in their names.

2) Do not entice patrons/fans into A MIDATLANTIC DREAM: The Midatlantic rocked the night away as encore’s house band for the 2016 Best Of Awards Party and Fundraiser for DREAMS on Feb. 27 at Brooklyn Arts Center. They played sets in between the shenanigans of hosts Pineapple-Shaped Lamps throughout the awards ceremony. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR • 19 Craft Beers on Draft • MON: Kids Eat Free ALL DAY VOTING US BEST • TUES: $5 Wine Pours SPORTS BAR, BEST • WED: $3.50 Select Pints LUNCH & BEST • THURS: 1/2 OFF Bottles of Wine • FRI: Fish & Chips, Guinness Specials WAIT STAFF! 109 Chestnut Street Downtown Wilmington (910) 762-1373 www.copperpennync.com 34 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

voting by offering specials, discounts or prizes in exchange for votes.

After voting closed, encore threw its annual Best Of party at Brooklyn Arts Center on Saturday, February 27. The event benefitted DREAMS of Wilmington—a local nonprofit and multidisciplinary arts program for at-risk youth (see the story from encore’s February 24 edition for info on DREAMS). Thanks to 408 tickets sold and numerous raffles, DREAMS raised more than $10,000 and will take in $7,600 after expenses. This money allows them to accept 45 students into their three-week summer intensive arts program.

Our Best Of hosts, comedy troupe Pineapple-Shaped Lamps (this week’s dashing cover models), entertained with a plethora of sketches across every category of award winners—all set to the theme, “2016: A Space Odyssey: Invasion of the Trophy Snatchers.” Aside from threatening world domination, they ensured audiences were rolling in laughter during skits and interpretive dance numbers. As a bonus: The funny Pineapples also got to know DREAMS students and even made videos with our Best Of house band, The Midatlantic, all of whom spoke about the importance of having arts education in youth.

We stuffed ourselves silly, thanks to food donated from numerous nominees in the “Food and Beverage” category. We danced to DJ Time and DJ Filthy spinning everything from “Fame” to “Weird Science.” The Midatlantic played their brand of bluegrass throughout the night as well, and Chris Brehmer Photography caught it digitally as our official Best Of photographer. Brehmer’s photos will be published over the next four editions of encore and in our official Best Of Book (published summer 2016), as we announce all winners.

An amazing solar system, DREAMS rocket included, decorated the venue, thanks to the wonderful students at DREAMS flexing their creative muscles.

And “Futurama” characters Leela (Rose Hunt) and Bender made an appearance and took top applause from the audience in our annual costume contest. They scored tickets to see Jewel at Cape Fear Stage on March 18.

Really, we were there to celebrate our besties! So, without further ado, allow us to introduce you to the Best Of Wilmington, class of 2016! Congrats, all!

Goods & Services Auto Mechanic

From a simple oil change to a new set of tires, our cars often require attention or repair. Wilmingtonians trust Pat’s Auto Service year after year to do it right. Located on Carolina Beach Road, Pat’s has once again taken home first place for Best Auto Mechanic.

For more than 50 years, Pat’s has served thousands with its 15 service bays and a full staff of knowledgeable, dedicated mechanics. As well, these “car doctors” are ASE certified, undergoing tests and meeting requirements to remain up to date in the auto industry. Wheel alignment, battery and brake repair, diagnostic tests, A/C system maintenance, axle and electrical work, filter replacements, and more are covered services at Pat’s. Plus, they test vehicles for annual NC state inspections and provide 24-hour towing for automobiles unable to make it to the shop.

Returning customers can benefit from Pat’s Appreciation Card, which allows people to save or enjoy perks like free oil changes. Check their Facebook and Twitter for ways to save, too.

Pat’s also gives back to community nonprofits, including the Domestic Violence Shelter and Services Inc. and Whiteville’s Festival of Trees to benefit the Lower Cape Fear Hospice—for which they host an annual charity golf tournament.

Also keeping ILM vehicles road safe are MobileTech and Grissom Wheel Alignment.

Adult Store

This next category is rated PG-Sexy. Romance and adventure in the bedroom may be a taboo topic for some, but for everyone else there’s an entire industry dedicated to enhancing pleasure.

Enter: Adam and Eve, Wilmington’s Best Adult Store for nine years straight.

For more than ten years Adam and Eve has provided a unique and discreet shopping experience in buying everything from lubricants to lingerie, adult toys to movies, or pretty much anything to help make couples’ nights a little more special.

They carry various colognes and scents, costumes and bondage toys, for novices to the most experienced of lovers. Anyone new to the shop can ask Adam and Eve’s expert staff about latest products and trends in everything from sexy apparel to vibrators. As well, there are plenty of fun party favors and games for special occasions, like a bachelorette party.

Adam and Eve promotes sexual health and exploration with its products and services throughout 15 stores in North and South Carolina. They also host cheeky seminars and charity events for nonprofits, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Expressions and Priscilla McCall’s cum in second and third in Best Adult Store in ILM.

Moving Company

When it’s time to move our lives from one place to the next, we realize how much we tend to collect throughout the years— beds, antiques, furniture, knickknacks. For seven consecutive years, encore readers have agreed Two Men and a Truck are the best at getting their precious belongings from point A to B. 2016 sees them shlepping home another award for Best Moving Company.

General manager Nicole Utz says Two Men and a Truck stands out above the rest because of their continued commitment to its mission statement: “to exceed customers’ expectations by customizing our moving services to specific needs.”

“Having seven encore awards displayed in our office validates our deep-rooted connection to the community and gives potential customers assurance when deciding to move with us,” Utz says. “We owe our success and recognition of the ‘e’ award to our customers, business partnerships and community.”

Utz says she transitioned her management and customer service skills from banking to become a part of the awardwinning business in 2013. Since joining the 30-year-old national company, she says there’s always extra pressure to please each year. “What I love most about what I do is making sure our customers are being taken care of,” Utz says.

This year has already led to expansion in the Jacksonville area to offer more moving and storage services.

Also getting a nod for their moving services are Few Moves Moving Company and Miracle Movers.

HEAVY LIFTING: Two Men and a Truck’s Jay Frank and Dan Happick test their strength at our Best Of Awards Show and Fundraiser. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography

offers childcare for its members Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (with additional hours at Hanover Center on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.). Plus, with roughly a dozen O2 gyms across North Car-

olina members can visit any of them.

Free trial memberships are always available for newbies, with limited-time offers on memberships throughout the year—typically alongside New Year’s resolutions.

Other gyms ready to pump Wilmington up are Gold’s Gym and Planet Fitness.

Chiropractor

Back in Motion has provided affordable chiropractic care for Wilmington patients

Gym

O2 Fitness is on a roll, winning its second encore award for Best Gym since opening locations in Mayfaire Town Center and Hanover Center. The state-of-the-art gyms come with numerous amenities, like saunas, updated cardio equipment, workout and weightlifting areas.

Their group classes are varied for all levels of working out, from Zumba to one of many Lesmills Bodyflow, yoga, cycling, or total body conditioning classes. They also have trainers on hand for a personal touch to getting fit the right way. There’s no onesize-fits-all mentality here. Recently inspired

by Lammily, creator of “Normal Barbie,” O2 Fitness is committed to helping people accept and embrace their bodies by encouraging healthy lifestyles and choices, instead of focusing on pounds and inches.

“More so than ever before, men and women of all ages are feeling the pressure to fine-tune their bodies to match society’s often unrealistic ‘ideal’ body image expectations,” O2 representative Caitlin Vargas says.

Scheduling a trip to the gym doesn’t have to be around the kids’ schedule either. O2 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 35

Thank You encore Readers!

for voting us BEST SEAFOOD, BEST FOOD TRUCK and BEST CHEF - KEITH RHODES!

Dinner: Monday - Saturday: 5:30pm - 9:00pm

6623 Market St. (910) 799-3847

www.catchwilmington.com 36 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

BACK IN ACTION: The Back in Motion team accepts another Best Chiropractor award: Gregg M. Policari, ?Missy Cannan, Patricia Ann Miller, and crew. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography

since 1988. Tailored to each patient’s needs, their personalized care and passion for the work has earned them the “e” for Best Chiropractor for the fourth time this year.

“We are passionate about our field of chiropractic care, because we can help people decrease and/or eliminate the aches, pain and illnesses their bodies have naturally without medication or surgery,” Gina Policari, chiropractor with Back in Motion, said after their 2015 win. “It is very rewarding when our satisfied patients refer friends, coworkers and family.”

Dr. Policari and Dr. Mike Rosen troubleshoot issues from neck pain to specialty care during pregnancy.

Dr. Policari or Dr. Michael Rosen use firstvisit consultations to complete an in-depth examination of a patient’s personal health profile and what they hope to gain out of the experience. The next step is a spinal analysis and examination, with x-rays, before Rosen and Policari review their findings. It’s an in-depth process before a patient’s first table examination, however, potential clients can save some time by downloading new patient forms at www.bimchiropractic.com and filling them out before their first visit.

Their website also features information from techniques and history of the practice to a FAQs page for frequent questions.

Other practices cracking the top three were Sito Chiropractic and Active Care Chiropractic.

Garden Store

“Customer service and plant knowledge, along with unusual plants and containers”— that’s what keeps Wilmingtonians with green thumbs coming back to Transplanted Garden, according to owner Allen Sabin. His

passion for plants and gardening led him to open Transplanted Garden with Tom Ericson in March 2000.

From annuals to perennials, herbs to bulbs, they’ve got everything for old pros and new gardeners for planting season.

Their nursery also is stocked all year long with time-tested varieties for our region, but they’re always looking for something unique to add to gardens. “We always please the customer,” Sabin adds. It must be true, as they’ve collected a handful of encore awards for Best Garden S­tore. Not to mention Ericson’s legendary knowledge, with which he schedules frequent lectures for local garden clubs across Wilmington. However, he does need at least six months notice.

Sabin says the continuous recognition helps business a lot these days, especially as they grow and expand their reach in new ways. For example, their weekly newsletter highlights what’s new, sale items and tips for what to do in the garden. “Organic and native gardening, along with specialty plants and new colors,” he says are among the top trends they’re keeping up with these days.

Pruners and planters also frequent Plant Place and Progressive Gardens for all their garden needs.

—Shannon Gentry

Jeweler

Alan Perry is jewelry king in Wilmington.

And his crown, ever-so-bedazzled by the most beautifully hand-cut diamonds, continues to reign over Best Of as his Barclay Commons shop, Perry’s Emporium, takes Best Jeweler 2016.

The staff at Perry’s ensure every customer’s milestone­­—wedding, anniversary, birthday, retirement­ —is met with careful attention. In fact, it’s what Vonda Lassard, marketing director, says keeps them on top; they’re always upgrading inventory and expanding.

“A trend we are seeing is the ‘mix match’ of wedding rings,” Vossard notes. “We offer a large selection for our customers to chose

WRITE-IN BEST OF: Marcella Hardy from Tanglez Salon & Spa took home the award for Best Esthetician with salon owner Donnie Canady. Photo

by Chris Brehmer Photography

from; this allows them to personalize their look. We currently have offer 500 wedding bands in stock for the men and women to choose from.”

To continue serving the newlywed crowd, Perry’s opened The Wedding Shoppe next door to their jewelry store last year. Brides will find the stress of planning their big day a little less stressful, thanks to the Perry’s team.

“The addition of The Wedding Dress Shoppe [allows us] to offer a full range of services for our customer, from the beginning purchase of the ring, to the dress, to the tux, the wedding bands, mothers of the bride/groom, bridesmaid, flower girls, and ring bearer,” Vossard says. “We have become the ‘One Stop Shoppe.’”

While Perry’s revels in sharing the joy of a couple’s happiest day, the man of the hour also takes pride in giving back to community. Perry’s donates items to local charities annually, from the YWCA to Greenfield Lake Collaborative to the American Heart Asso-

ciation and beyond. He continues to set an example not only within entrepreneurship but within his family as well. His sons have become a part of the family business, according to Perry in 2014.

“My passion has continued to grow over the years as my sons become more involved with the family business and with their eagerness to learn all there is to know about the jewelry industry,” he told encore. “My love for this business grows even stronger.”

Other jewelers setting stones on the poll are Reeds Jewelers and Spectrum Art and Jewelry.

Nail Salon and Esthetician

In 2015 Tanglez Salon and Spa made their debut on the encore Best Of poll.

In 2016 they’re continuing to do so, only this time they’re being recognized for two awards: Best Nail Salon, with technician Johnny Locklear leading the helm, and the winning “write-in category,” Best Esthetician, with Marcella Hardy taking the votes.

“What makes our business stand out above the rest is the one commonality all of our teammates must have to work here; they have to truly love what they do,” Krista Burchette, who works at Tanglez says. “The

heart that Marcella and Johnny have for the industry motivates them to stay educated and they genuinely care about their work.”

A medical esthetician, Hardy always looks to provide the best knowledge on how to improve a client’s skin. With a bachelors in anatomy, she’s doling out the best in professional care, offering facials focused on antiaging, custom services and acne charcoal.

She also does back facials, which include warm towel compresses, a vapor exfoliation to remove lifeless skin cells and pore impurities and a custom body mask and rehydrating moisturizer.

“The new trend in skin care is organic ingredients,” Burchette explains. “Marcella creates homemade organic facials for each season that her guests look forward to. Right now, her guests are enjoying her lavender and lemongrass facial.”

The facial will be offered through April only, so interested parties should call Hardy for an appointment.

Locklear is a teacher for Young Nails, a major nail care provider. “He enjoys teaching fellow nail technicians how to improve their skills,” according to Burchette. Locklear offers everything from gel polish manicures to spa manicures, fill-ins and pedicures.

“Johnny has always had a natural talent for [nail art], even before it was a trend,” Burchette says. “In 2016, people want more than just the basic monochromatic polish and Johnny makes sure no two sets of nails are the same.”

This year the Tanglez team is adopting the motto “Grow Together.” Each, from Hardy and Locklear to every stylist, person will focus on improving his or her skill set. More so, they want to learn from each other’s strengths to offer a pampering experience unlike another locally.

“We are proud of our teammates for their hard work and the recognition makes us feel supported by our community,” Burchette says.

Nail salon nominees also go to All Polished Up and QT Nails, while esthetician nods also go to Julie Canoutas at All About Skin Care and Melanie Fuller at Kiss and Make Up. —Shea Carver-

Thank you Wilmington for voting us Best Caterer FOUR years running!

2016 WINNER

www.middleoftheisland.com • (910) 256-4277

Vegetarian Restaurant

“Water is the key to everything,” Chef James Bain of Epic Food Co. explained to encore’s sister publication, Devour ILM, a few years back. “And we have fun with that.

It’s skipping the sodas and just offering a cool, clean way to have a drink.”

Bain was talking about his infused waters offered at his restaurant in The Forum.

Whether it’s cucumber, rosemary, or just plain water, the refreshers are one of many ways he shows how simple flavors make healthy eating tasty.

The former owner of Harvest Moon on Oleander Drive, where Bain put his finedining training into practice, told us back then his latest restaurant is just as fun and challenging. Epic’s menus are more casual than the tablecloth-service of Harvest Moon, offering bowls, salads, wraps, and more for breakfast, lunch or dinner—particularly for folks in a hurry. Adamant about providing customers plenty of sprouts, carrots and spinach, Bain focuses on clean cooking, with numerous ways to enjoy Epic. One menu comes the “Epic Way,” and the other offers build-your-own options.

“Everyone these days has a different allergy, a different diet, or what-not,” Bain explained. “We made a menu that gives them the option of really good meals or create an item just like they want it.” Whether a bowl, wrap, soup or salad, topped with brown rice, beans, tofu, chicken or beef, folks can pair their plates with a variety of canned and bottled beers, organic wine or sake, or a healthy smoothie.

Also serving vegetarian-friendly favorites are Lovey’s Natural Foods and Cafe and Sealevel City Gourmet.

Brunch

Best Brunch was only just added as a Best Of category in 2015. Boca Bay took home the inaugural “e” last year and has officially won the title again.

Wilmingtonians love a good brunch, so why wouldn’t they favor an all-you-can-eat

THANK YOU WILMINGTON! Great Burgers and Hand-cut Fries

• Drop-off delivery catering (small groups , office lunches, church socials, etc.)

• Full catering for parties, weddings, receptions and more!

• We travel within a 400 mile radius and can accomadate any size event!

BEST OF

Food and Beverages

Established 1990

Voted “Best Burger” and “Best Fries” 6 Locations in the Cape Fear

WWW.PTSGRILLE.COM encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 37

buffet from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays?

Boca Bay goes beyond traditional eggs and bacon. Served along its line are bagels and cream cheese and lox, eggs Benedict, Belgian waffles, hashbrowns, blintzes, and so much more. At less than $20 a person, they have a make-your-own-omelet station, where diners can concoct eggs, sausage and cheddar or veggies and Swiss. Boca Bay offers. The buffet brunch becomes a fancy feast with white tablecloths and fine china lining the tables, too.

In case you miss brunch, Boca Bay’s dinner menu delights any day of the week.

From starters like tuna tartare and ceviche to crab dip and oysters Rockefeller, to a slew of sushi and raw bar items. Plus, they do a prix-fixe every Sunday through Thursday evening for only $24.95, which includes a starter, entree and dessert.

They cater parties with a hefty banquet menu, starting at $23.95 a person. And their nightly bar menu from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. runs $5 selections with oyster shooters at $3. Located at 2025 Eastwood Road, choose elegant indoor dining or Boca Bay also offers outdoor seating on their patio.

Other brunches cookin’ on the reader’s poll are from The Basics and Rx Restaurant and Bar.

Pizza, Late-Night Eatery

“I love the restaurant business, it’s been my life,” Slice of Life owner Ray Worrell

told encore last year after his 2015 win for Best Late Night Eatery. “[It] makes me feel good that the locals enjoy Slice of Life.”

This year he added Best Pizza to his collection as well.

Whether wandering about downtown Wilmington after a long night out or looking to pick up a pie on the way home from Wrightsville Beach at their Military Cutoff or Monkey Junction locations; encore readers have favored Slice of Life since 2005. Serving even more since their move to a larger space in downtown (across the street from their former home, now Fork n’ Cork).

While their locations make them continuously accessible to more residents and visitors across ILM, they’re known for quality ingredients and staff. Whole or by-the-slice pizzas are customizable with an array of toppings, from fresh spinach to jalapeños to pineapple to Canadian bacon. Slice’s menu also includes non-pizza fare, such as quesadillas, tacos, nachos, and chicken wings. Soups and salads, like spinach with sundried tomatoes and feta round out their selections. Plus, there’s a fully stock bar with craft beers always running on tap.

Night owls can also find some quality snacks and meals at Jimbo’s and Front Street Brewery.

Wilmington’s Best Pizza runners up are Pizzetta’s Pizza and Elizabeth’s Pizza.

38 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

ANOTHER YEAR ANOTHER WIN: Best Late Night Eatery and Pizza goes to Slice of Life, who sent a comic crew of Harley Quinn, Batman, Wonder Woman, The Penguin to accept the prizes. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography

Buffet, Fried Chicken, Soul Food

Once again Casey’s Buffet, Barbecue and Home Cookin’ has swept the encore awards for Wilmington’s Best Buffet, Best Fried Chicken and Best Soul Food. They’ve

been serving locals soul food “just like mom used to make” since opening in 2005.

Owner Larry Casey has worked in the restaurant industry for more than 20 years and told encore after last year’s win that his restaurant goes the extra mile for hungry Wilmingtonians and visitors. “The customer

is king at Casey’s,” he said, “every customer is treated equally. We are grateful for each and every [diner].”

Casey’s has gotten nods for its buffet from all over throughout the years, including Our State Magazine and most recently Yahoo Travel for best buffet in North Carolina. Recipes date back to the 1800s, with pulled-pork, chitterlings (chitlins), chicken gizzards, pot roast, meatloaf, and every other conceivable cuisine known in the South.

Their golden-brown fried chicken, however, takes the cake, er … “e.”

It’s also worth noting Casey’s whole, on the bone, farm-raised catfish, alongside traditional green beans, mac n’ cheese, mashed tators, collards, black-eyed peas, and dozens of other sides. It’s “all you can eat,” so get that extra run (or three) in before going back for seconds and thirds. Folks can find out when their favorite dishes will be featured on the line by going to Casey’s website, or find their take-out specials and plates if there’s no time to stay for a meal.

Casey’s also brings the soul food to you with their catering services.

Wilmingtonians also like to load up their plates at Boca Bay’s and Golden Corral’s buffets. The Basics and The Sawmill are riding the Best Soul Food trains, while Smithfield’s and Bojangles make the list again for Best Fried Chicken category.

Salad

Brasserie du Soleil usually tops our list for boasting the best French dining experience. Now they can add Best Salad to their collection of “e” awards. Located in Lumina Station on Eastwood Road, near Wrightsville Beach, it’s a go-to spot for many date nights, lunch or meetups with friends. Their “build your own” salads, which come with a multitude of toppings from a variety of cheeses, unique vegetables and proteins, have continued to build their own loyal customer base. Pair it with onion soup gratinée, tuna tartare or poutine, and it’s a hearty meal.

Their offerings continue with delights from crab and shrimp crêpe to mussels marinière and frites to the Brasserie burgers and steaks. Not to mention their delectable side dishes like from carrot confit to haricots verts to boulangère potatoes. From comfort food of fish and chips and slow-roasted pork to a fresh raw bar, there’s a little something for every palate.

Wait, weren’t we talking about salads?

Brasserie du Soleil is one part of Ash Aziz’s Circa Restaurant Group lineup of local favorites that make it on to Best Of’s roster in some form or another, including Circa 1922, Osteria Cicchetti and Boca Bay. Also serving up satisfying salads are Rucker John’s and Jester’s Cafe.

Hot Dog

For decades trips to Wrightsville Beach have not been complete without a dog from Trolly Stop. Since opening its doors in 1976, they’ve collected countless accolades for bunning ILM’s Best Hot Dog. Though their Front Street location in downtown Wilmington is now Sam’s Hot Dog Stand, the Mom-and-Pop charm of their franchise in Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Southport still hold strong. Their signature dogs also have withstood the test of time. Between their hot dog varieties of all-beef Sabrett dog, original beef-and-pork Trolly dog, Carolina-smoked sausage, vegetarian soy protein dog, or the fat-free turkey dog; they’re are a thousand ways to have a Trolly Stop hot dog. Folks can load their buns with anything from deli mustard to chili, melted cheese to jalepenos, and more.

Build your own creation or choose from Trolly Stop staples like the North Carolina (topped with freshly made chili and slaw) or the Chicago (diced onions, tomatoes and cucumbers). They also have locally themed creations like the Wrightsville Beach, featuring onions, tomatoes and secret sauce of their own design.

Trolly Stop also offers up burgers, nachos, homemade baked beans, fries, milkshakes, and ice tea. Fresh dill pickles can (and probably should) be added to any order.

Also topping the charts and best dogs in town are Charlie Graingers and Paul’s Place.

Wine List

Sparkling, white or red? Decisions, decisions. With upward of 60 selections by the glasses offered and hundreds of handselected bottles, The Fortunate Glass has garnered another encore award for Best Wine List.

The Fortunate Glass has collected a handful of “e”s since opening in 2010, not to mention Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence. They offer tastings, full pours or bottles of their selection of distinctive yet affordable wines across all price ranges. Their wine is stored in a state-of-the-art wine preservation system, the N2Vin, to ensure it’s stored and served at its best temperature.

The Fortunate Glass is an intimate establishment right in the heart of downtown Wilmington. Its decor of dark wood paired with warm lighting sets a mood of elegance but not intimidating to those new to the shop or novice of wine. Even those who are disinterested in imbibing in vino can order a cold craft beer from their list of 30. Stay for a light dinner of Italian cured meats, cheeses from around the world, or choose from a wide range of small plates featuring specialities like muffalettas, duck sliders and truffled mushroom pizza.

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Each day brings a new special small plate, wine and beer, and there’s a free wine tasting every Tuesday night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Check their website and Facebook page for special events, such as wine and food pairings.

Also topping the charts for Best Wine List in ILM are Wilmington Wine and Pinpoint.

Appetizers and Brewery

Front Street Brewery has been pouring pints for more than 20 years in downtown Wilmington. They’ve solidified themselves in a market that has exploded in Wilmington in the last five years or so. They’ve also solidified their place in the hearts of our encore readers as Best Brewery, as well as their bellies with Best Appetizers in 2016.

Public relations director of Front Street Ellie Craig says the accolades on the wall remind them they do what they do well, and to be proud of that. “It’s inspirational and motivational for our staff to continue to provide ‘the best’ we can every time we come to work,” she says. “We take great pride in everything that we do and we instill that in each and every one of our employees.”

The mission is simple: for everyone who strolls in to have a unique and enjoyable experience with consistently good food, beer and service. Craig says Wilmington’s ongoing growth spurt is now home to more breweries per capita than Asheville. “This

is huge for all of our breweries and our local economy,” she continues. “We can now begin to capitalize on beer tourism and work together to create a cohesive, vibrant beer scene in an already established beer market.”

With growth in the market there is always pressure to please, and healthy competition keeps Front Street hungry to be better year after year. With more breweries, more bottle shops and more craft beer to come to Wilmington in the next few years, Craig says it’s a very exciting time. However, their business plan will continue to change as a result.

“We have new food and drink menus that will drop this spring,” she tells. “Look for some true Southern twists this year, like Pork Belly, re-invented bourbon cocktails, new appetizers, and some exciting new beers from the Wort Shop.”

What will remain are their free brewery tours, complete with tastings, everyday from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Seasonal selections to look out for now include their award-winning Spring Brew, a French-style Biere de Mars with some hops and bitterness. There’s also the Absurdity Belgium which crosses a Belgian Tripel with a bold American IPA. Craig says having community recognition for their craft is reflective of their passion for what they serve and also of their Front Street family, which includes staff and customers.

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with kitchen staff to tasting new beers with patrons and sampling new whiskeys with their staff, it’s all a collaborative effort to pair tasty eats with spirits. “Food and drink is about creating experiences for our family and our family is big,” she continues. “We love being a part of this community. We love contributing to the incredible culinary scene that is Wilmington.”

Serving up tasty apps in second and third place are Circa 1922 and Hell’s Kitchen and pouring pints for Best Brewery are Flytrap and Wilmington Brewing. —Shannon Gentry

Tacos and Mexican/Latin

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NEWBIE AWARDS: Michael Jensen, Hayley Jensen, Stephen Durley, and Carroll Jensen of Beer Barrio took home Best New Restaurant. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography

Wednesdays are the jam at K38 Baja Grill. Why? Well, $2 hard shell tacos are all the rage in a variety of flavors. And folks in Wilmington are packing the place out on a constant basis, which is no surprise that K38 hangs another “e” or two on their walls in 2016 for Best Tacos and Best Mexican/ Latin Restaurant.

K38 is a Wilmington culinary institution, serving California-style tex mex cuisine.

Their fish tacos are not to be messed with, only enjoyed with dripping hot sauce, avocado, salsa fresca, cabbage, and cheese, and a side of rice or cheese. But if tacos aren’t going to cut it for hefty appetites, one of their many specialities will. Their Island Grouper Roll comes packed with Jerkspiced grouper, Jack cheese, spinach, black-bean puree, and grilled pineapple, finished with a Baja BBQ and pineapple habanero sauce. And their Yucatan Carnitas are no joke: achiote-marinated, slow-roasted pork, orange salsa fresca, pickled red onion, guacamole, sour cream, jalapenos,

and cilantro.

Plus, Wilmingtonians can take their pick of where to enjoy such decadence, as K38 has two locations to serve Wilmington: Porter’s Neck Commons and Oleander Drive. And their sister restaurants, Las Olas on Military Cutoff and Tower 7 on Wrightsville Beach, make sure diners can access their menus just as easily. Just be prepared to wait when margaritas are on special­, because it’s another item folks salivate over locally. From top shelf to standard, they do a rita traditionally or with flavors like pomegranate to make a spicy meal all the more refreshing.

Other taco joints readers crunch into are Islands and Beer Barrio, while Mexican/Latin restaurants keeping diners happily munching are La Costa and El Cerro Grande.

New Restaurant

When Beer Barrio opened last summer, downtown was abuzz with taco mania.

Pulled pork, tequila-grilled chicken, local fish, braised beef, smoky beans, and other varieties filled up their menu, alongside a host of apps, like hushpuppies with catfish, and entrees.

“Chef Stephen has created his own style of modern Mexican, with lots of influence from Southern cuisine,” Beer Barrio owner Hayley Jensen tells of their far-from-traditional Latin cuisine. “He also incorporates beer or beer ingredients into almost every dish.”

And such beer comes from a variety of 30 craft offerings on draft. Whether wanting a Carolina Brewery Shamrock Ale or Brooklyn, NY’s Grimm Subliminal Message, the offerings are aplenty, allagashes, kolsches, IPAs, witbiers, and more included.

“We also have a signature margarita that uses all fresh juice,” Jensen tells. The restaurant stays away from the over-sugary, bottled sour mixes. Customers can get one

industry vets. We love making people smile; that’s our passion!”

And they’re seeing smiles for miles in return, as customers have embraced their arrival on the corner of Front and Princess streets. Jensen promises they’ll keep upping the ante in the coming year, too. on the rocks or frozen.

“We really want to do more beer dinners The restaurant opened as a family-affair, this year,” she says. “Wilmington is quickly with Jensen and her husband, the chef, becoming a beer city.” along with Jensen’s mom running the resOther new restaurants keeping diners taurant. Today, they’ve extended their family happily full are Nema and PinPoint. to all diners, basically, ensuring every customer is treated like family.

“People rely on us to make their day bet- Chef, Seafood and Food Truck Chef Keith Rhodes is a common name ter, so we always aim to please,” Jensen tells. Aside from the double-wrapped tacos, to hear on the Wilmington culinary scene. overstuffed burritos and the expected chips In fact, the chef’s fame isn’t only known loand guac, customers have raved about cally; he was a contestant on season 9 of Beer Barrio’s grilled corn on the cob, cov- the famed cooking competition, “Top Chef.” ered in grated cheese, lime, cilantro, and While the winning coat wasn’t necessarily a mayonnaise. Their homemade chicharones fit for Rhodes in Texas, he’s won beyond his (pork rinds, as we call them in the South) wildest dreams in Wilmington. More so, he come with housemade Ranch. They’ve also continues to keep local diners consistently begun opening for brunch on Saturdays well-fed and happily coming back to his resand Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. so folks taurants, Catch Modern Seafood and Catch can get a taste of Mexican burritos and hue- the Food Truck. In 2016 he also takes three spots on our reader’s poll, including Best vos rancheros.

“We’re really excited about 2016—noth- Chef, Best Seafood Restaurant and Best ing is harder than the first year, so we’re Food Truck.

“Our original mission was to bring a creglad to have that under our belts!” Jensen ative take on seafood,” Rhodes tells encore. says. “We have been longtime restaurant ALWAYS ON TAP: Front Street Brewery’s Ellie Craig, Kelsie Cole and Josh Cranford accepted accolades for Best Appetizers and Best Brewery as sips and suds were passed around at the Brooklyn Arts Center. Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography

With the help of his wife, Angela, who oversees the marketing and business side of the Catch operations, Keith makes sure creativity soars in the kitchen.

“God has blessed us in that our message has been heard, and folks stand behind us and our ideaology,” Angela tells. “Cultivating a new audience is key to the future.”

Aside from running their Market Street brick-and-mortar, and operating the food truck all over town at local breweries and events, they’re planning on reopening their downtown spot soon. What was once Phun, a noodle shop, will become a healthy eats restaurant.

“We will focus on healthy, affordable eats,” Angela tells. “We are looking forward to putting health food options on customers’ tables.”

Plus, they’re constantly on the go, providing food for films and productions, not to mention traveling for speaking engagements and being ambassadors for the coastal Carolina region.

“I was inspired by my grandfather, who was a great home cook,” Keith tells. “Seeing happy people is what keeps me inspired.”

Though pinpointing a specific, favorite ingredient to cook with is hard, it’s safe to say seafood remains the heart of Keith’s inspiration. “When fresh, exotic, local, and rare, it really speaks to me,” he notes. “We have

a beautiful dish of striped bass, risotto and carrot coulis.”

On Tuesdays, Catch does half-price tapas so folks can enjoy items like NC cobia, NC wahoo, NC ocean trout, Verlasso salmon, Topsail oysters, and more. Whether getting a fried oyster taco from the food truck or a dish of miso-honey grilled Verlasso salmon, with Wok-kissed vegetarian Pad See Ew, it’s all a flavor party that will make a diner’s mouth explode in excitement. Folks can follow the food truck at www.catchthefoodtruck.com and the restaurant at www. catchwilmington.com, Chefs chopping their way onto the poll are James Doss of Rx and Pembroke’s and Mark Borkowski of Nema. Other seafood restaurants hooking customers are Fish Bites and Cape Fear Seafood. Food trucks rolling onto the poll are Poor Piggy’s and Vittles.

Soups and Breakfast

Twelve years ago Rob Shapiro bought Sweet n Savory Café—a staple among Wilmington diners who crave the most decadent homemade breads, sweets, soups, sandwiches, entrees, and more. In fact, SnS has been a staple on the encore poll for multiple years, racking up awards annually.

2016 is no different as they take away Best Soup and Best Breakfast.

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At the croak of the crow, folks can flock to SnS for a bevy of delicious items, whether wanting the heartier flavors of corned beef hash and omelets, pulled pork breakfast enchiladas and biscuits and gravy, or the lighter fare of oatmeal and fruit. Breakfast is served from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. daily, and then folks flock in for lunch to munch on a pile of delicious sandwiches and homemade soups. From an ultimate grilled cheese to shaved roast beef or turkey, a variety of sammies make for the perfect dunker in one of the café’s homemade soups, which change daily.

“It feels good to be recognized by our guests and the public in general,” Shapiro says. “We are humbly appreciative and thank everyone for supporting us and for their votes.”

This week, March 30 through April 6, will be especially a treat for diners, as SnS will participate in encore’s Wilmington Restaurant Week (this week’s cover photo features SnS’s lobster linguine). Their four-course dinner is only $54.95 per couple and includes an appetizer to share, a cup of homemade soup or a side salad, choice of a chef’s creation or blackboard special, and a dessert.

“We already put our best into everything we do,” Shapiro tells. That includes expanding The Pub, SnS’s sister restaurant a stone’s throw away from the café. “It comes down to food, service, quality, value and overall experience, which we are able to achieve through fully utilizing the talents, ideas, energy and hard work of our dedicated staff,” Shapiro continues.

They’re constantly looking to add events and programs to keep diners happily returning. Daily specials do the trick, like Sunday’s $4 off seafood or Monday’s $4 off hand-cut steaks. On Wednesday, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., they do free wine tastings. “We will look to become the best for wine selection in Wilmington, NC,” Shapiro promises.

The poll also includes Chop’s Deli and Pine Valley Market, noted for their delicious soups, and Dixie Grill and Goody Goody —Shea Carver for breakfast.

Arts, Entertainment and Media Filmmaker

Meg Lansaw began churning out movies in junior high on her camcorder. In looking back, she says her job as filmmaker happened rather organically.

“Filmmaking chose me,” Lansaw tells.

“Growing up, I was quite the entertainer, always making up stories and legitimately visualizing them. I started (hand)writing screenplays in junior high and fell in love with photography in high school. The culmination of these things equaled filmmaker.”

Coming from Huntington, WV, to Wilmington, NC, more than a decade ago, Lansaw was embraced by the local film community. To date she’s made five shorts, three commercials and one feature. “The Complex” was her first film. “It is a 30-minute short based on my experiences as a leasing agent at an apartment complex,” Lansaw tells.

She also made the short, “80 Windows,” which centers on four estranged friends meeting up again after years and being stuck under one roof. Over a game of truth or dare, their past comes back to haunt them.

Lansaw also did “wait...”—another short which was inspired by real events. “Paige, a reclusive writer, suffers from an overwhelming fear of the dark and the outside world,” Lansaw explains. “Each evening she drafts the same story repeatedly, while envisioning the brutal attack of two sisters. One night while typing, noises echo from the attic. Curiosity ascends her to investigate, where she stumbles upon a box of remnants from the women in her visions.”

Lansaw’s debut feature film, “11:11,” is a passion project currently in post-production. Shot entirely in Wilmington and starring many locals, the ensemble feature follows the “interconnectivity of lives and the effects timing and decision making have on destiny,” according to Lansaw. Filmed locally, Lansaw’s been overseeing edits and hopes to have the film complete for the 2017 film

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festival. She’s constantly on a journey of learning in the field.

“My last project taught me how not to wear too many hats,” she says.

“My focus should be on the actors and the frame, not dealing with an overflowing toilet.”

Today, she chooses to keep her outlook

simple. She starts with the script and plans the locations and cast, while ridding the fluff. “If the scene is not adding to the story, I ax it,” she says. She also focuses on hiring a great sound mixer, because sound quality is hard to fix in post-production.

“My creative goal is to tell stories that really make you feel something, whether you like it or not,” she tells. “If I’ve made a film that resonates with people, I’ve done my job.”

Other filmmakers reeling onto the poll are Nikia Hamilton and Chris Maney.

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Writer

He’s a Wilmingtonian with 10 novels under his belt, a memoir, a book of advice and more. Two of his works have become stage productions as well. Clyde Edgerton once again takes top votes for Best Writer on the 2016 encore poll, and just in time for TheatreNOW’s opening of “Walking Across Egypt” this weekend. Edgerton wrote the novel in 1988, and in 2013 it was first produced live at Barter Theatre in Virginia, as adapted by Catherine Bush.

“It’s an honor to see anything adapted from my stories hit the stage in Wilmington,” Edgerton tells, “given the fine directing, producing, and acting talent in Wilmington. I’ve had very little to do with the stage productions.”

The story follows an elder, Maggie Rigsbee, in a small, Southern town, who finds a dog on her front porch. She calls the town’s dog catcher to come and get it. In return, Rigsbee is exposed to a world of theft, prison breaks and delinquents who have yet found God—something she wants to fix. The show will open at TheatreNOW on April 1 and runs every Friday and Saturday through the 29. Edgerton will at the venue on April 1 and 8 for a meet-and-greet for a $30 donation (on top of ticket prices, $37, which include a three-course dinner). All funds raised from the event goes to the local arts council.

Though Edgerton’s known best for his

debut novel “Raney,” which TheatreNOW produced last year, he has published notable short stories and such. Currently, the UNCW writing professor is working on an essay.

“It’s a long piece about how we sometimes tend to forget the role of due process and equal opportunity in systems that are close to home, specifically educational systems,” he tells.

Egderton knew writing would be his passion upon discovering greats like Flannery O’Connor and Eudora Welty. His brand of humor is quite relatable to many Southerners, who can connect to the mores of smalltown America below the Mason Dixon Line.

“I’d been privy to many funny family stories and a talkative cultural community,” Edgerton tells of his inspiration, “a community that had held me pretty close to several fires that made be feel simultaneously nurtured and wounded by life in the South as I knew it while growing up.”

As for advice to up-and-coming desired writers, Edgerton keeps it simple: “Follow no advice that doesn’t make sense to you.”

Local writers Jason Frye and Gwenyfar Rohler also rank on the poll.

Art Gallery

Strolling downtown becomes a creative affair when arriving at Bottega Art and Wine at 122 Princess Street. Visitors may stumble into a haven of innovative and

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thought-provoking visuals and sounds. Just last week the art bar hosted a musically curated evening of wine and music, featuring Pink Floyd, vegetarian tapas, and select cheeses and pickled fare. Or they may be welcoming poets and spoken-word artists as part of their Mics Wide Open events.

However, downtowners who stumble in this Friday will see a variety of new works hanging in Wilmington’s Best Art Gallery for 2016, according to encore readers.

“New works by Kevin Dunn and two of his students Angela Rowe and Jill Schulte will be on display,” according to owner Sandy Perotto. “There will be a variety of different styles, ranging from abstract to realism.”

Local artists flock to the shows in support of a burgeoning scene. Bottega has been a hotspot for arts more than a decade now; in fact, they’ll be celebrating their 10-year anniversary in June. Perotto bought the gallery in 2009 in its original Front Street location.

However, last year, she moved it to a bigger spot, with more wall space and a beautiful outdoor patio to host everything from drum circles to belly dancing.

“In mid May we are doing our first neighborhood art show with works from artists who live exclusively in the Sunset Park area,” Perotto tells.

Drink specials are aplenty here and Perotto constantly updates the menu to ensure everyone can imbibe on new, fascinating flavors in beer, wine and bubbles.

They host starving artists wine night on

Tuesdays, with $3 glasses and a drum circle and dancing. On Wednesdays they offer wine tastings and “Drink and Draw,” while the first Thursday of the month is “Sign Language Night.”

“It’s an evening for people from the deaf community to teach hearing individuals some sign language and about deaf culture,” Perotto tells.

The second and fourth Saturdays is when they do slams and readings, while Sundays offer ‘80’s movie night. “We are in the process of switching out our wines and beers for the season,” she tells, “and we are now selling gourmet pickled veggies from Lunchbox Pickles at the shop.”

They’ll be bringing back light tapas with a vegetarian and vegan menu, too, as to appeal to all palates. Being open to change and ever fluctuating for customers is part of the gallery’s ongoing appeal. Perotto and her staff pride themselves on not being snooty but all encompassing to supporters of the arts.

“Obviously, tons of artists hang out here, and conversations just get started about good show ideas or by seeing the work they have,” Perotto tells. “I just make sure there is cohesion or intention [to host shows.] It also needs to be ready for sale, unless we are doing an installation or live piece.”

Other art galleries hanging on the poll include Eclipse at Blue Moon and Spectrum Art and Jewelry.

—Shea Carver

UPCOMING EVENTS SATURDAY, APRIL 2 | NOON

Men’s Tennis vs George Washington SATURDAY, APRIL 2 | ALL DAY

Beach Volleyball Tournament at Dig and Dive SUNDAY, APRIL 3 | ALL DAY

Beach Volleyball Tournament at Dig and Dive SUNDAY, APRIL 3 | NOON

Men’s Tennis vs ETSU SATURDAY, APRIL 9 | ALL DAY

Women’s Golf hosts River Landing Invitational SATURDAY, APRIL 9 | 1:00 P.M.

Women’s Tennis vs College of Charleston SATURDAY, APRIL 9 | 1:00 P.M.

Softball vs Delaware (DH) SUNDAY, APRIL 10 | ALL DAY

Women’s Golf hosts River Landing Invitational SUNDAY, APRIL 10 | 1:00 P.M.

Softball vs Delaware

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MUNCIPAL WASTE THURS, MARCH 31st

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MAR. 31st MUNCIPAL WASTE

APR. 20th TRIBAL SEEDS

APR. 1st STICK FIGURE

APR. 21st CILVER FIT FOR RIVALS

APR. 2nd FOAM DROP

APR. 22nd LUKE COMBS

APR. 3rd SHAMAN HARVEST

APR. 23rd THURSDAY’S GONE: LYNARD SKYNYRD TRIBUTE

APR. 7th CORROSION OF CONFORMITY

APR. 26th COLEMAN HELL

APR. 8th LADI DADI AFTAPARTI

APR. 30th MATOMA

APR. 9th DEEJAY SILVER

MAY 7th STATE CHAMPS

APR. 11th MADBALL

MAY 10th THY ART IS MURDER

APR. 17th EYEHATEGOD

MAY 15th INSANE CLOWN POSSE

SHAMAN’S HARVEST SUN, APRIL 3

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CORROSION OF CONFORMITY THURS, APRIL 7th

encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 47

extra>>fact or fiction

GOING ALOFT: Chapter 7: Up the Mast

T

by: JOHN WOLFE

he sun was setting on our first day at sea—a radiant orange ball descending into the limitless blue to the west.

Fifty miles south of Cape Fear, North Carolina, the peak halyard on our foresail gaff had chafed through. The sail hung limply by its throat; without it, our disabled schooner wouldn’t balance on her course and steer properly. Saint, Sinbad and I assembled at the base of the foremast, while Captain explained what had to be done.

“Someone has to go up there and run a new halyard through that block,” he said.

“We need to get the sail back up before it gets dark. The wind is picking up. I don’t want anyone to have a rough night of hard steering, especially on the first night standing watch. If no one volunteers, I’ll go, but I wanted to give one of you the chance to first.”

Oh! That sounds majestic, the romantic sector of my brain though, recalling a chapter from Melville. Let’s do it, body! This is a good idea!

My body was having none of it.

We’re not used to the motion of the boat yet, my body argued.

The white top of the thick wooden mast is impossibly high up off the deck. It would be like scaling a barkless three-story tree without the luxury of branches to hang on to. What happens if we fall? The disabled gaff taunted me from the top of the mast, swinging with the motion of the ship like an ominous pendulum.

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You worry too much, body, my romantic brain quipped. We need to do this. It’s happening.

Before my self-preservation instinct, or the Saint or Sinbad could say anything, my hand was up and the words, “I’ll do it,” escaped from my lips.

Captain nodded. “Go get your harness and an adjustable wrench.”

I did as he asked and returned to find them uncoiling the working halyard from its home on a belaying pin. The bitter end of the line waited for me like the head of a snake.

“Tie your knot,” Captain said.

I tied what I thought was a bowline.

“That’s not right,” he corrected. “Your life depends on this knot. Do it again.”

I slowed down, focused my mind on tying it correctly rather than quickly and tried again.

“That’s better,” Captain noted. “Now you’re going to have to step outside of the lifelines first. We’re going to hoist you up together down here, but you’ll still be in charge. We’ll only haul on the line when you say pull; we go at your speed. Once you reach the top, tie one of the spare lines on your harness around something sturdy in the spreaders so you have a safety line in case anything happens. And at all times, keep a good grip on the shrouds. They’ll be what saves you if you fall.”

Saint and Sinbad held the other end of the halyard. “Don’t drop me, guys,” I said with a nervous chuckle, wishing I had been nicer to Sinbad that day.

“Don’t worry about us,” Saint said with a smile beaming from under his beard.

It was time. Captain explained all that he could; it was up to me now. I lifted one leg, then the other, over the lifelines which guarded the threshold to the void. The ocean burbled beneath as we sailed along, velvet blue in the dying evening light. My feet planted on the purple-heart railing on the bulwarks. My fingers gripped the shrouds—the thick painted steel cables that supported the mast. I was standing on the edge of life, the event horizon. It was time to make the ascent.

“Pull!” I cried. As Saint and Sinbad hauled, I jerked toward the sky, pulled from the harness around my torso. My fingers clutched the shrouds in the grip of a man

48 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

pitching ship beneath me, a toy boat in the largest bath on the planet. My friends and who loves life. I hugged my body close to my lover below, miniature on the deck. A the only tangible thing in the wide, open air. motion that never stops.

Foot by agonizing foot, I slowly rose up the The sky above the horizon turned pink. rigging. My gaze was fixed on my destina- Purple clouds obscured the last rays of the tion: The top of the mast seemed to scrape setting sun. My view from aloft was monuthe bottom of the clouds with its crazy ar- mental in its vastness and sublimity. Yet, it rhythmic motion. As I moved higher up on was so simple. The sea, the sky, our boat: the boat, the motion of the sea became That’s all there was in this cosmic and amplified; a slight wobble on deck extrapo- wave-tossed world, all there ever would be. lated into a wild bucking motion aloft. RisMy task, my challenge, was there in front ing to the top of our little ship, I felt every of me, for me alone to complete. No one bob, dip, roll, and sway. I felt like a cowboy, else—not my mates holding the halyard, grasping the scruffy mane of a mad bronco. not the guiding voice of the Captain, not I chanced a glimpse at my friends be- the girl I loved, steering the ship below me. low. From nearly three stories up, the Saint No one could help me now; I had to do it and Sinbad looked like action figures, their alone—as we all do, sometime or another. bodies worked like pumps to haul me still I knew I had to so we could keep going, higher. The piercing blue eyes of the Cap- keep sailing, keep living this wild waking tain stared up at me from the wooden deck, dream. Upon completion, I could unleash watching for any sign of danger. After a the magic I discovered in moments of overcertain height, my cries of “pull!” were lost coming life’s challenges. The question that to the wind and the dull crashing surge of can only be answered through action was our hull charging through the sea. I had to asked of me in the rarified wind. My hands fully concentrate on my hands and legs so answered, working with love and with care.

I didn’t get pitched off. My forearms and My romantic brain was right. I needed hands throbbed with an ache I remembered to do this. I tugged on the halyard and sigfrom the monkey bars of my childhood. naled my friends to lower me to the swayILLUSTRATION BY GINA Ramseur

Finally, I reached the top. I tied my life- ing deck. I gently returned to sea level, line to a spare shackle bolted into the mast, grounded by my new knowledge of the sky. then paused to gaze out over the vast sea that stretched to eternity before me. I knew John Wolfe is a licensed captain who still gets seasick in they were visions I would die remembering: rough weather, but goes sailing anyway. He holds a BFA in creative writing from UNCW. When he’s not writing, endless waves marching toward the distant he can be found on the water, playing music or drinking horizon, surging through the deep bottom- beer. “Going Aloft” is Wolfe’s nonfiction serialized piece, less blue of the offshore Atlantic. The tiny to be published in encore every other week in 2016.

extra>>feature

Catwalk for a Cause: Fundraiser for DVSS debuts ‘Southern Chic’ trends

by: Shannon Rae Gentry

E

ach year Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc. (DVSS) holds its annual silent auction and fashion show to raise money and awareness for their efforts in helping individuals and families remove themselves from abusive situations. This year marks their 24th event, with a theme of “Southern Chic” set for two shows on Friday, April 1 at the Hilton Wilmington Riverside. Attendees will view trends making waves below the Mason Dixon Line.

“Garden party, prints, pastels, big hats, bow ties,” Lauren Daley, director of development and operations, uses as examples.

“Our lunch and dinners are going to match that with fried chicken, short ribs, mashed potatoes, and things like that.”

While all the fashions are from Vintage Values, the shelter’s resale stores, this year also will feature a pop-up shop with household items to purchase from all three locations across Wilmington. “The stores will give kind of a glimpse of what we have available,” Daley continues. “Some people may not realize we have this wide variety of clothing there as well.”

At the end of each show, emceed by WECT’s Jon Evans, people will be able to purchase anything off the runway.

Daley says 33 percent of their organization’s budget comes from Vintage Values sales, paying for programs and services they offer thousands of women, men and children annually. Last year the Domestic Violence Shelter served more than 1,300 people, including 1,100 women, 25 men and 181 children.

“It’s not the stereotypical ‘[victims] are just women,’” Daley says of the numbers.

They span genders, as well as same-sex and heterosexual couples. “We really try to establish how each victim looks different and is at different place in each situation.”

ers, a perfume gift set from Belk valued at over $600, as well as a wine tasting from Wilmington Wine on Castle Street.

Also, a variety of gift cards from business across ILM will be up for grabs.

and their court advocate helps with protective orders.

Clients also receive vouchers to shop at Vintage Values stores to buy clothes for work and school, not to mention to help furnish household needs, like lamps, bed linens and so on. Daley says a victim shopping and choosing items helps provide a sense of normalcy during the recovery process.

Anyone interested in doing more than attending the luncheon or dinner on April 1 can inquire about volunteering. Last year volunteers put in more than 20,000 hours of their time. DVSS has opportunities with their next training session scheduled for August 27. Tickets to the luncheon, as well as donation and volunteer information, is available at www. domesticviolence-wilm.org/donate.

“It’s another way to empower them instead of us just handing them items,” she adds. “It’s an opportunity to pick out what fits them, what they like and give them back that little bit of control in their life.”

Empowerment groups and children’s groups meet regularly; they have Spanishspeaking meetings as well.

DVSS provide financial assistance for anything from an oil change to food or personal hygiene items. “Sometimes people just need a little help to get to the next step,” Daley says. “Every little bit helps.”

However great or small the need, Daley says their executive director, Mary Ann Lama, of 30 years always asks, “Who are we not reaching and what can we do to reach those populations?” Expanding their outreach has been crucial. They have an outreach coordinator, Andrea Stough, who is in elementary, middle and high-school systems. Stough also goes to UNCW and CFCC and works directly with their prevention specialist.

“We try to find different populations through a variety of health fairs and community festivals to provide information about our services as well,” Daley adds.

“We’re lucky to have partnerships with many other organizations throughout the community: Coastal Horizons, Guardian As well, abuse can take shape in many Ad Litem, Legal Aid of NC . . . We have forms other than physical. Verbal and fi- great founding members as well who nancial abuse are powerful tools used. have helped [monetarily].”

No matter the sex, age or situation, DalAbout a third of their budget comes ey says the shelter’s mission is always from monies made via Vintage Values, to be a safe place to support individuals. another third comes from government They provide emergency shelter at an grants, while the rest comes from donaundisclosed location; they have a 24-7 tions and fundraising events. They have advocate on staff to answer phone calls; their “Fathers for Hope” event in June,

Details

24th Annual Silent Auction & Fashion Show

Friday, April 1 Luncheon at 11 a.m., show at noon; $45 Dinner at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m.; $55 Hilton Wilmington Riverside 301 N Water Street A PHILANTHROPIC POSE: Asia Davis shows off fashion found at Vintage Values at last year’s Domestic Violence Shelter and Services silent auction and fashion show. Courtesy photo.

but for over 25 years the fashion show leads as a fundraiser. Since its inception it has raised more than $525,000.

For years now Daley says they’ve split the fashion show into two events: a luncheon and dinner. Lunch will feature a plated seasonal salad with chicken and a true Southern-inspired dessert of butterscotch and peanut butter cheesecake. Dinner with be buffet-style, featuring crusted chicken, short ribs and mashed potatoes. The luncheon will start at 11 a.m., with their fashion show at noon, while dinner begins at 6 p.m. and the show at 7 p.m. Daley says it’s a way to reach more people who have diverse schedules and budgets.

“It’s the same show,” she assures.

“We have a silent auction at each, so we’ll divide those items, [but] you get the same experience overall.”

Silent auction items include various artwork, Carolina Panther memorabilia, a necklace donated from Reed’s Jewelencore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 49

happenings & events across wilmington

to-do calendar events ILM BIZ CONFERENCE AND EXPO

3/30: The Wilmington Biz Conference & Expo is the ILM Region’s largest business-to-business conference, where professionals come to learn, network and grow their business. More than 100 exhibitors 1:15-7pm for a day of learning and new connections. Tickets: $5 expo only/ $40 keynote lunch (11:30am-1pm). Free seminars on a range of timely topics. After hours party, 4:307pm. Wilmington Convention Center, 515 Nutt St.

AN EVENING WITH GARRISON KEILLOR

3/30, 7:30pm: Acclaimed host of “A Prairie Home Companion” brings his solo performance, “An Evening with Garrison Keillor,” to Wilmington.

This master story-teller shares hilarious anecdotes about growing up in the Midwest, the people of Lake Wobegon and “late-life fatherhood.” thalianhall.org. Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St. BOOKS AND AFRI-ARTS STREET FAIR

4/2, 9am: Artisans, fine arts, book authors, commercial and food vendors/ Discount vending for local authors. To participate, e-mail, thewysteriagroup@gmail.com. Free bounce house, storytime reading for children, open mic poetry and live music. Tentative celebrity guest author ap-

pearance. Free to the public. St. Stephen AME Church, 501 Red Cross St. POPLAR GROVE HERB AND GARDEN FAIR

4/2, 9am-4pm; 4/3, 10am-4pm: Poplar Grove hosts the area’s largest and longest running garden event, full of vendors selling annuals, perennials, shrubs, native plants, vegetable starts, herbs, container gardens, and other types of plant material. Artisan crafters will offer one-of-a kind decorative pieces, and extensive classes and activities will be offered by our local experts throughout the two days. www.poplargrove.org. $5 Barnyard tours are $5 per person. 10200 US Hwy 17 North

FLYTRAP FAMILY FUN DAY

Join us as we celebrate the Venus flytrap. This event will commemorate Royal Governor Arthur Dobbs’ April 2, 1759 letter to his English naturalist friend Peter Collinson describing a “Catch fly sensitive” found at Latitude 34. Arthur Dobbs himself will be on site to answer questions about this strange plant. There will be presentations at the visitor center, Carnivorous Plant Hikes on the Flytrap Trail, and spring festival events in the picnic area along with food and drinks. For more information contact the park office at (910) 4588206 or by email, carolina.beach@ncparks.gov.

Carolina Beach State Park, 1010 State Park Rd.

plant an azalea week

4/5, 11am: Cape Fear Garden Club, Inc-Civic Improvements Committee, New Hanover County Parks and Gardens, and the Parks Conservancy of New Hanover County will host official kick-off to the week on Tues., 4/5, with the planting of azaleas in Hugh MacRae Park near the gazebo at 10:00 am. The public is invited to attend and meet New Hanover County officials, members of the Cape Fear Garden Club, and the lovely Cape Fear Garden Club Azalea Belles © with the 2016 Cape Fear Garden Club Azalea Garden Tour. www.facebook.com/CivicImprovementsCa peFearGardenClub/?ref=hl. Hugh MacRae Park, 1799 S. College Rd.

NC AZALEA FEST

4/6-10: For more than 60 years, the folks of Southeastern North Carolina have been throwing the best party in the South. Art shows, street fair, concerts with Avett Brothers, Chase Rice and Snoop Dogg, garden and home tours, coin shows, boxing tournaments, history and culture, and more! Admission: Varies per event. Across Wilmington. www.ncazaleafestival.org

POOR MAN’S GARDEN PARTY

4/7, 4pm: Get ready for the 4th annual Poor Man’s Garden Party! Kick back and enjoy some pre-Azalea concert fun at this 2-day outdoor festival featuring music, beer, and bites from local food trucks. Get your groove on with local bands and DJs, check out live painting by Cammeron Battanides, and play jumbo lawn games before walking to the concert – just steps away from the pub. Festivities start at 4 p.m. both days.

Admission is $2 with a portion of proceeds benefitting Friends of Angels. Info: facebook.com/ Goat&Compass. Goat & Compass, 710 N. 4th St.

HISTORIC HOME TOUR

4/9-10: Climb the porch, cross the threshold and enter in to a very special part of Wilmington. Nine beautiful homes and one historic church, spanning 250 years of architectural history, will be open for you to explore. Ribbon cutting ceremony will kick-off this area’s largest Home Tour on Sat., 4/9, 12:30pm, magnificent Captain Harper Enter your events online by noon, Thursdays,

for consideration in print.

www.encorepub.com 50 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

crossword Creators syndiCate CREATORS SYNDICATE © 2016 STANLEY NEWMAN

WWW.STANXWORDS.COM

4/3/16

THE NEWSDAY CROSSWORD Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)

WATER LOG: As your pencil flows along

by Gail Grabowski ACROSS 1 Cotton shirt fabric 5 Paid promos 8 Cantina fare 14 Honolulu-born leader 19 Overcharge 20 Take a load off 21 Cracker shape of a sort 22 Low point 23 Puritanical nature 26 Break down slowly 27 Skye topper 28 Retro “Awesome!”

29 Vote out 31 Grp. awarding merit badges 32 Vigilant 34 Thick bankrolls 37 Brief cybermessages 39 Run rings around 41 Aussie bird 42 Homeland, affectionately 45 Land parcel 46 Be intolerant of opposition 51 Disrespectful 52 Land-parcel measures 54 County near London 55 At any time 56 Genesis setting 57 Fridge foray 58 Part of a Dracula costume 59 Loud sound 60 Film’s orchestral music 62 Polished off 63 Finance deg.

65 Teeth expert’s deg.

66 Literary narration method 73 __ la la

74 Chum 75 Play a part 76 Place a hex on 77 Caravan stop 79 Needing a rubdown 80 Sound of 113 Across 81 Keycard receiver 85 Ratio phrase 86 Undue speed 88 French impressionist 89 Give in, so to speak 90 Giving the remote a workout 93 Film with a posse 94 Sioux City citizens 95 Hulk director Lee 96 Erin Brockovich’s former employer 98 Social group 101 Liverpudlian, for one 102 Microsoft cofounder 103 French article 104 “Ya got me” 108 Evoking the shivers 110 Prof.’s helpers 113 Iron’s output 115 Prudent part of portfolios 119 My Cousin Vinny star 120 Free-for-alls 121 Summer clock setting in Md. 122 ¿Cómo ___ usted?

123 Unwelcome weather 124 Good to go 125 Nine-character signal 126 Accident-probing agcy.

DOWN 1 Whispered call 2 Kappa preceder 3 Bread spread 4 Alias abbr.

5 Daisylike flowers 6 Widen, as pupils

7 OR order 8 __ kwon do 9 “What’s more . . .”

10 Less 11 Solemn assent 12 Colleen 13 Apart from this 14 Pairs of punches 15 Watering hole 16 Southwestern building material 17 Central spot 18 Fields of expertise 24 Clumsy 25 Showed fear 30 When the evening news may be on 33 Proof of permission 35 Pop singer Tori 36 Pair 38 Dad of Henry Ford II 39 Raison d’__ 40 Gunk 42 Just hoping for a profit 43 Fail to keep 44 He preceded JFK 46 Succinct 47 “Beauty is truth” poet 48 Get away from 49 Geeks 50 Lock of hair 52 Appetite arouser 53 Christmas song 58 Twain’s pauper 59 Game fish 61 Spending limits 63 Cursor mover 64 Fireworks display 66 Unemotional 67 Compactor contents 68 Dreadlocks wearer 69 Symbol of Arizona

70 Yellowish brown 71 Cupcake covering 72 Folger’s alternative 78 Greek column style 79 Trade org.

80 Wave rider’s phrase 82 Seminarian’s hurdle 83 Done 84 School segment 86 Chopped down 87 Emulating 88 Series starter

91 Lacking a max 92 Wide partner 93 Possible barn nestling 96 It’s southwest of San Antonio 97 Top-tier groups 98 Points of a crescent 99 Chip giant 100 Oscar winner Witherspoon

101 Filet’s lack 105 Alma mater of 44 Down 106 Christmas song 107 No longer valid 109 Prior nights 111 Colony crawlers 112 Rough guess 114 Virtuoso 116 “Zip-a-__-Doo-Dah” 117 Ending like -arian 118 What boys will be

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

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encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 51

House, 311 S. Front St. Join the Historic Wilmington Foundation, City Dignitaries and Azalea Belles as we cut the ribbon, explore the home and enjoy free ice cream provided by Dairy Queen. Tour is self-guided and tickets are good for the full weekend. Tour goers can attend either or both days, and can start and end at any point along the route. $30 in advance, $35 during the weekend of the event

charity/fundraisers 2016 Audi Cabriolet RAFFLE

Wilmington Symphony Orchestra is raffling a 2016 Audi Cabriolet convertible, in partnership with Audi Cape Fear. Only 999 tickets will be sold! The drawing will be held on May 7. Audi Car Raffle: $125 + $3.75 transaction fee. Raffle ticket to win the new 2016 Audi Cabriolet 2.0.

Raffle tickets will be sent to buyer via U.S. mail.

Must be 18 years old to participate. You need not be present to win, but we hope you will join us at the Kentucky Derby Party and drawing event on May 7, and all ticket sales benefit the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra. The $125 purchase price of the ticket is not tax-deductible, but any amount in excess of $125 per ticket will be considered a contribution to the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra. 600 tickets must be sold for the raffle to take place. In the event that the minimum is not met, you may choose to make this a tax-deductible donation to the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra or receive a full refund. wilmingtonsymphony.org.

COMMUNITY BIKE DRIVE

A Bike for Every Child is a non-profit organization

requesting donations of used bikes for the benefit of the kids at The Brigade Boys and Girls Club.

Please drop off your used bikes at any Lowes Foods in Wilmington, Leland, and Hampstead through March 15th. Your donated bikes will be repaired by and given to the kids at the Brigade Boys and Girls club. We need all types of bikes, from tricycles to adult bikes for teens. Give your old bike a second life and donate it today! For more information go to www.abikeforeverychild. org or call the Donation Coordinator, Kelly Cascaden at (910) 431-9235.

GOLF TOURNAMENT

4/1, 9am: The Friends of the Leland Cultural Arts Center is proud to host our 2nd Annual Golf Tournament at Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation to support the Town of Leland Cultural Arts Center.

Our event will feature 3 flights, Ladies, Men and Mixed, Shotgun Start and Captain’s Choice with team prizes. Compete for individual prizes in our putting, hole-in-one, longest drive and closest to pin contests. Registration at 9:30am on the day of the event. Sponsorship packages available to provide added recognition and business opportunities at the event. Reg: www.flcacgolf.org or email Cris Allen, at cja5wood@gmail.com or 571-319-9424. Call pricing to play.

FASHION SHOW AND AUCTION

4/1, 11am: Southern Chic: 24th Annual Fashion Show & Silent Auction to benefit the Domestic Violence Shelter and Services. Come enjoy great food and support a wonderful cause while watching local celebrities, politicians, law enforcement and fire fighters strut their stuff on the runway. Fashions and accessories are from our Vintage Values stores. All proceeds benefit Domestic Violence Shelter and Services. Tick-

ets are $45 per person, $400 per table, and are available at www.domesticviolence-wilm.org or by calling 910-343-9969. Hilton Wilmington Riverside, 301 N Water St.

will then hold our 5th annual run. Race is in the Autumn Hall neighborhood off Eastwood Rd. Following the race, a reception at Dockside where runners enjoy an amazing free buffet. NHRMC committed their support to our cause. We will present a check to the Zimmer Cancer Center.

Half of the funds we raise stay in NC and the other half go to the national organization that promotes awareness and research primarily at Johns Hopkins. Arbor Park at Autumn Hall, 1202 Eastwood Rd.

LIFEPOINT UGANDA 5K

4/1, 6:30pm: Sleep in on Saturday and come out Friday evening instead! Spend your April Fools Day with Lifepoint Church and bring your creativity! Silly (Family Friendly) costumes are welcomed and encouraged to bring laughs to our April Fools Day Race. One with costumes of course! Bring the family, have some fun running and stay to enjoy the Post Race Party. Lifepoint Church, 3534 South College Rd.

13th landfall golf tournament

Good Shepherd Center’s largest fundraising event that has raised over $1 million since its inception. The Landfall Golf Tournament benefits Good Shepherd’s work in moving men, women and families with children to independent living in their own home. In addition to the golf tournament, we host a Tennis Mixer. Silent Auction and Games Day which includes an afternoon of bridge, mah jong, and other games. Landfall Country Club, 800 Sun Runner Pl.

PARTY WITH A PURPOSE

4/1, 5pm: “Beauty Bling & Other Things”, a local group of small business owners featuring LuLa Roe, doTerra, Silpada, Mary Kay, Rodan + Fields, Younique, Initial Outfitters, The Pampered Chef and more offers a one stop shop at their “Party with a Purpose,” benefiting Lower Cape Fear Hospice. The event will be held April 1st, from 5-8pm at Lower Cape Fear Hospice located at 1414 Physicians Dr.

CANINES FOR SERVICE WALK/DOG DASH

4/2, 10am: Register today for the Canines for Service 10th Annual Walk & Dog Dash. Form a team with your friends, family, neighbors or coworkers, lace up your sneakers, leash up your dog and join us for this fun event. There will be raffles, a photo booth, activities, vendors and a delicious lunch from Mission BBQ. Register: www.caninesforservice.org or (910) 362-8181.

Hugh MacRae Park, 1799 S. College Rd.

theatre/auditions THE 39 STEPS

4/1-3, 8pm, or Sun., 3pm: Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have “The 39 Steps,” a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre! Two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 zany characters (played by a ridiculously talented cast of 4), an on-stage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers and some good old-fashioned romance! Directed by Chandler Davis. Starring Jason Aycock, Christopher Rickert, Heather Setzler, & Brett J. Young.

Tickets: $20-$25, www.citystageco.com. City Stage Co., 21 North Front Street

Step Up For Soldiers Benefit w/WBC

Kick off NC Beer Month at a beer-filled fundraiser. Benefiting Step Up For Soldiers, a local nonprofit organization for military veterans, Fermental has teamed up with the UNCW Leadership Studies program along with Wilmington Brewing Company and Stamey’s BBQ Food Truck to bring you an evening of live music, award-winning barbecue, and local beer. Feat. fresh cask ale from Wilmington Brewing: Citra Dry-Hopped IPA & Coffee-Vanilla Porter. mericana folk artist, Jason Ashby on guitar, mandolin, and the occa-

UNNAMED LOVE SUICIDE

3/31: UNNAMED LOVE SUICIDE UNCW’s Department of Theatre will host a production this weekend only, “Unnamed Love Suicide.”

The show follows Johnny, a fourth grader who wrote a suicide note, and his classmates portray the incidents of his life through its bitter end. The dark show illuminates the aftereffects of young kids dealing with bullying. Tickets are $3-$10, available one hour before curtain. Shows are at 8 p.m., except Sundays, 2 p.m. Shows take place at UNCW’s Cultural Arts Building in the SRO Theatre. sional banjo. Free. Fermental, 7250 Market St. CARE’S PAWTY OF THE YEAR

4/2, 7pm: Fun party with Open Bar, Heavy Hor d”ovres, Music, Dancing and Live Auction with all proceeds benefiting the Coastal Animal Rescue Effort. Tickets are $75 each or $750 for a reserved table for 8. The Terraces on Sir Tylyer, 1826 Sir Tyler Dr.

BLUE RIBBON RACE

4/2, 3pm: March is colorectal cancer awareness month. The Blue Ribbon Run is working to promote awareness the entire month of March and

52 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

3/31-4/3, 8pm or Sun., 2pm, in the SRO Theatre, UNCW’s Cultural Arts Building: Show depicts the performance of a play written as a suicide note by fourth grader Johnny. Performing Johnny’s play are his classmates who assume the roles of themselves and portray the incidents in Johnny’s life that lead him to his sad conclusion. Providing audiences with a darkly curious story, 4th Graders gives the perspective of a troubled young boy dealing with bullies and depression. Dealing with very serious topics, 4th Graders will leave audiences baffled, but sympathetic to a story all too familiar for today’s youth. Tickets may be purchased at the Cultural Arts Building box office one hour before curtain. GA $10; students, $3. http://uncw.edu WALKING ACROSS EGYPT

4/1, 7pm, Fri-Sat. Dinner theater show, based on book by Clyde Edgerton and adapted by Catherine Bush. $37 for dinner, $21 for show only, $17 for mezzanine with discounts for Seniors & Students & Groups of 10+. 4/1 and 8, 5:30pm, $30 donation in addition to ticket to meet and greet Clyde Edgerton to benefit the Arts Council of Wilmington. Edgerton is the author of 10 novels, a book of advice, a memoir, short stories, and essays. He has been a Guggenheim Fellow and five of his novels have been New York Times Notable Books. Walking Across Egypt follows Mattie Rigsbee, who discovers a stray dog on her porch and decides she’s too old to keep it and calls the dogcatcher.

Little does she know Lamar Benfield will open her eyes to a world she never knew existed. Di-

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rected Don Baker. 19 S. 10th St. theatrewilmington.com GREEN DAY’S AMERICAN IDIOT

4/7-17, Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. Twotime Tony-winning hit musical ‘American Idiot,’ based on Green Day’s Grammy-winning multiplatinum album, boldly takes the American musical to a new level. Johnny, Tunny and Will struggle to find meaning in a post-9/11 world. When the three disgruntled men flee the constraints of their hometown for the thrills of city life, their paths are quickly estranged when Tunny enters the armed forces, Michael is called back home to attend familial responsibilities, and Johnny’s attention becomes divided by a love interest and a hazardous new friendship. Tickets: www.thalianhall.org.

comedy

from the religious and conservative south and adds a new twist to stand-up that you won’t soon forget. Finding absurdities in everyday culture, media, politics and dogma; Cash draws comparisons that others miss. Whether it’s through one of his characters or voices, an angry rant or a satirical rap song, Cliff will make you question what you accept as normal. • 4/2, 7pm: Jesse Jones’ high-energy style and honest story telling allows crowds to connect with him on a personal level. He has been seen on MTV, Laughs on Fox, the 3V network series “Fitness Fail” and reviewed by the New York Times for his work with No Tea Productions. • 4/8, 7pm: Erin Foley is an amazing comedic actress, comedian, and writer. Currently, Foley is a regular cast member on TruTV’s How To Be A Grown Up. She just finished writing for the new NBC sitcom, “One Big Happy,” which debuts in the spring

of 2015. Doors 6 p.m., and dinner is available.

Dead Crow Comedy Room: 265 N Front St. www.deadcrowcomedy.com.

BASILE’S APRIL FOOLS

Pre-Azalea Comedy Bash II, 4/1, 8pm, Thalian Hall, 910-632-2285. Featuring Basile, national and internationally touring comedian. Portion of proceeds goes to VOCAL Volunteer Older Citizens Action League. www.thalianhall.org.

dance

BEAU SOIR

CONTRA DANCE

3/30, 7pm: An evening of French classical music by composers Claude Debussy, Francis Poulenc and Maurice Ravel, among others, performed

by Paolo Gualdi on piano and Danijela ŽeželjGualdi on violin. www.cameronartmuseum.org.

Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St. “This Machine,” Roy Zimmerman

3/31: PRO MUSICA, COLLAPS The Collective for Happy Sounds, a.k.a. COLLAPS, will perform at CAM (3201 S. 17 St.) on Thursday night as part of their pro-musica program. The Greensboro-based act focuses on nontraditional music and movement and will be accompanied by local guiarist Rob Nathanson.

Spoken word, theater, electronics, video, dance, and more are incorporated into the performance. Tickets are $5 to $10, available at www.cameronartmuseum.org.

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3/31, 7pm: Roy Zimmerman is a one-man tour du force of music, biting social and political commentary and the great heart to keep you listening to the uncomfortable truths of life in these United States. If you’ve never seen him in concert, his infectious energy will cut through the din of your dayto-day and shake you awake! Join us for a very memorable evening! $18 or pay what you can. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Wilmington, 4313 Lake Ave. Contemporary Classical ConcertS

3/31, 7pm: Pro Musica Concert Series presents COLLAPSS (Collective for Happy Sounds) a contemporary music and dance ensemble based in Greensboro, presenting unique experimental programs in non-traditional. Collapss (Emily Aiken and Brianna Taylor, dance, Steve Stusek and Laurent Estoppey, saxophones) with Robert Nathanson, guitar specializes in sound and movement, but also features spoken word, theater, video and visual art. collapss.com. Saxophones and electronics, featuring video and dance, composed by Maurizio Guerandi, Nick Rich, Andrew Weathers and Wei Dai. Rob Nathanson will duet with Laurent Estoppey. $5-$10 at www.cameronartmuseum.org. Cameron Art Museum’s Weyerhaeuser Reception Hall, 3201 S. 17th St.

SNOOP DOGG AND DOUG E FRESH

This a a rain or shine event. Ticket prices are $46.50 not including tax or fees. No ticket refunds will be granted. The tickets are the same price online and at the Azalea Festival office.

Belk Main Stage, downtown Wilmington, 601 N.

Featuring:

4/7, 7:30pm: NC-born Avett Brothers, Belk Main Stage, Cape Fear Community College, 411 N. Front St., outdoor standing room, general admission, non-smoking venue. Show is rain or shine.

No ticket refunds or returns are given. Mon.-Fri., 9am-5pm, 5725 Oleander Drive Suite B-7. www. ncazaleafestival.org

music/concerts

DEAD CROW

3/29, 7pm: Andrew Bunting has given a lot to the Wilmington arts community and now it’s time to give back. We’re putting on an all-out, all-hilarious night of comedy and music to raise money for our good friend to help him with his medical bills. Cancer is nothing to laugh at, but let’s face it, Andrew is always laughing at inappropriate times.

Admission: Any amount of money you can conribute to Andrew’s medical bills. • 4/1, 7pm: John Felts caters to audiences seeking good humor and good taste and delivers real, funny, one-of-a-kind perspectives on dating, marriage, parenting, American culture and struggling to do the right thing.

PG show. • 4/1, 9:30pm: Cliff Cash comes

Front St. www.ncazaleafestival.org AVETT BROTHERS

Evening of energetic, contemporary American country dancing—exercise that’s actually FUN, done to live music by Box of Chocolates band—fiddle, percussion, guitar, dulcimer, bass, mandolin and more! Dress cool & comfortable, soft-soled shoes. 2nd and 4th Tues each month. All ages welcome. United Methodist Church, 409 S. 5 Ave.

art ART INSTALLATION: NIKI HILDEBRAND

Experience an art installation of 150 glass leaves.

A soft opening for 4th Friday Art Walk Feb 26th and a seperate official opening on Wed., 3/2, 6-8pm with talk by artist Niki Hildebrand. The ArtWorks, 200 Willard St.

WINTER WORKS ON PAPER

Take a reprieve from the hustle and bustle and enter a world of serenity and quiet that only a blanket of snow puts on the world. Sit down, relax and enjoy the soft restful solitude of winter.

Watercolors and monoprints on museum quality papers by artist Janette K. Hopper. Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.

ALL STUDENT SHOW

Annual, juried exhibition features student work.

Traditionally over 75 pieces are submitted, including drawings, watercolors, oils, photography, acrylics, ceramics, sculptures and experimental media. A UNC Wilmington alumnus/alumna or community member is selected to juror the show and selects the awards, including Best of Show, which is purchased for the University Union Permanent Art Collection. UNCW Boseman Art Gallery, 601 S College Rd.

topher alexander

Flytrap Brewing presents “Varied States” from local artist, Topher Alexander. He currently serves as the Assistant Gallery Director at UNCW CAB Art Gallery and teaches printmaking at the Cameron Art Museum School. Alexander’s artwork is driven by experimentation, and grounded in raw

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materials. On display through April 30. Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St. AZALEA FEST CHILDREN’S ART SHOW

TACT is proud to exhibit the top 54 entries from the elementary and middle school divisions of the 7th annual North Carolina Azalea Festival Children’s Art Contest. Join Mayor Bill Saffo and the Cape Fear Garden Club Azalea Belles for the Art Contest Exhibit ribbon cutting on Friday 4/1, 5pm. Meet student artists and enjoy some light refreshments courtesy of Apple Annie’s Bake Shop. Free; public invited to attend. NC Azalea Festival Children’s Art Contest is open to all public, private, charter and home elementary and middle-school students from New Hanover and Pender counties with almost 900 entries from talented young artists. Artwork from the top entrants in each division may be viewed in the HBHUSO/CAC Community Gallery with the ceramic art of the renowned Orange Street Pottery.

Children’s artwork will be on display at the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center through Azalea Festival until Fri., 4/29.

FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT

Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, Wilmington’s premier after-hours celebration of art and culture, is held 6-9 pm on the fourth Friday of each month.

Fourth Fridays feature art openings, artist demonstrations, entertainment and refreshments. Administered by the Arts Council of Wilmington & New Hanover County, Fourth Fridays have made downtown Wilmington an arts destination as artsavvy locals and visitors flock to our art spaces, said Rhonda Bellamy, executive director of the Arts Council of Wilmington/NHC.

CALL FOR ARTISTS

Call for Artists by Wilmington Art Association for 2D Visual and 3D Heritage Arts adults 50 and over—Statewide Art Competition plus Exhibition and sale for three days. -$15 to enter 5 pieces of art. No uploading images Deadline to enter April 25. www.wilmington-art.org

STRIKING A BALANCE

Striking A Balance opens at New Elements Gallery features new works from printmaker Donald Furst and painter Bob Rankin. Both artists share a clean, linear aestheric, but they differ in palette.

Furst works predominately in black and white where Rankin plays with primary hues. It will remain on view until 4/16. at 201 Princess St.

WAA SPRING SALE AND SHOW

4/8-10: Azalea Festival is the Annual Juried Art Show and Sale sponsored by the Wilmington Art Association. Wonderful works of art by over a hundred local artists will be available for viewing and buying at The Hannah Block Art Center, the former historic USO, 120 S. Second St.

Paintings in oil, acrylic, watercolor and pastel, photography and mixed media, there will also be interesting 3D pieces such as glass and sculpture. Open Friday and Saturday from 10am-5pm, and on Sunday from 10am-4pm. Admission is free, and the event is handicapped accessible.

Juror and judge for this year’s 34th Show is Chad Smith, a well-known painter who currently lives in Durham.

museums

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

CAMERON ART MUSEUM

Exhibits: Through 6/5: Bones Of: Sculptures

by Dustin Farnsworth: New acquisition to the permanent collection in context of seven other works by this rising artist. Inspired by 19th century architecture of the theatre, Farnsworth reflects, “I create a lush, emotionally-charged rabbit hole to fall into and explore. These sculptures act as anthropological studies of cultural, familial and social heredity of a culture in the interim of post-industry and the coming age.” Farnsworth, a recent resident artist at Penland School of Craft (2012-2015) is now continuing his studio practice as a Windgate resident and Honorary Fellow at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (20152016). • Through 7/10: Raise the Curtain: Galleries become two working studios in this presentation of the original front curtain unveiled October 12, 1858 during the premier opening of Wilmington’s Thalian Hall. The 32’ curtain painted by Russell Smith, Hudson River-inspired Pennsylvania artist, undergoes conserva?tion treatment while local artists paint a 19’ x 32’ replica of the venerable scene, featuring arrival of Viking long ships to Apollo’s temple, as oracles are read on the eve of the Olympic games. • Through 9/11: She Tells a Story celebrates the work of women artists from CAM’s permanent collection and connects the art forms of visual and literary arts. Fifteen Wilmington-area women writers contribute text (of their chosen format) on select works from the exhibition. The juxtaposition of the artwork with the written word will illuminate how these artists and writers explore their experiences, perspectives and world views through their chosen medium.

• Through 7/17: Patchwork North America: Paintings by Virginia Wright-Frierson: From extensive travel by road and by air, Wright-Frierson has created over 100 paintings framing scenes, as if looking through a window, across the US and Canada. • She Tells a Story, see page 16. CAM Café hrs: Tues,-Sat,, 11am-3pm; Sun., 10am3pm; Wed.-Thurs. 5-9pm. 910-395-5999. www. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St.

3/31, 7pm: In honor of Women’s History Month, take an intimate historical and artifactual tour with Museum Historian Jan Davidson and Museum Curator Barbara Rowe as they showcase the often-ignored role of women in the Lower Cape Fear’s history. First, Jan Davidson will tell stories of women’s contributions to our region’s rich history and culture. Then, Barbara Rowe will give the special tour group access to some rarelyseen objects in the Museum’s collection. Participation is limited to 15 persons. Advance registration is required and can be made by calling 910-798-4362 or email cfmprograms@nhcgov. com. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

WILMINGTON RAILROAD MUSEUM

Explore railroad history and heritage, especially of the Atlantic Coast Line, headquartered in Wilmington for 125 years. Interests and activities for all ages, including historical exhibits, full-size steam engine and rolling stock, lively Children’s Hall, and spectacular model layouts. House in an authentic 1883 freight warehouse, facilities are fully accessible and on one level. By reservation, discounted group tours, caboose birthday parties, and after-hours meetings or mixers. Story Time on 1st/3rd Mondays at 10:30am, only $5 per family and access to entire Museum. Admis-

LATIMER HOUSE

Victorian Italiante style home built in 1852, the restored home features period furnishings, artwork and family portraits. Tours offered MonFri, 10am-4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. The Latimer House of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. Third St. 762-0492. www.latimerhouse.org

CAPE FEAR SERPENTARIUM

World’s most fascinating and dangerous reptiles in beautiful natural habitats, feat. a 12-foot saltwater crocodile, “Bubble Boy.” and “Sheena”, a 23ft long Reticulated Python that can swallow a human being whole! Giant Anaconda weighs 300 lbs, w/15 ft long King Cobras hood up and amaze you. See the Black Mamba, Spitting Cobras, Inland Taipans, Gaboon Vipers, Puff Adders, and more! Over 100 species, some so rare they are not exhibited anywhere else. One of the most famous reptile collections on earth. Open everyday in summer, 11am-5pm (Sat. till 6 pm); winter schedule, Wed-Sun. 20 Orange St, across from the Historic Downtown Riverwalk, intersecting Front and Water Street. (910) 762-1669 or www.capefearserpentarium.com.

BELLAMY MANSION

One of NC’s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans, for John Dillard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, planter and business leader; and his wife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (1821-1907) and their nine

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM

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children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington. Now a museum, itf ocuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action.910-251-3700. www.bellamymansion.org. 503 Market St. BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE

18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmington’s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th and 19th century decor and gardens. Colonial life is experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen-building and courtyard. 3rd and Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. .info@burgwinwrighthouse.com. (910) 762-0570. burgwinwrighthouse.com.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Mon, Little Sprouts Storytime, 10am, and Go Green Engineer Team, 3:30pm. • Tues., Kids Cooking Club, 3:30pm • Wed., Preschool Science, 10am; Discover Science, 3:30pm; and Mini Math, 4pm. • Thurs. StoryCOOKS, 10am; and StART with a Story, 3:30pm • Fri., Toddler Time, 10am; and Adventures in Art, 3:30pm • Drop off gently used books at our museum to be used for a good cause. Ooksbay Books uses book collection locations to help promote literacy, find a good use for used books, and benefit nonprofits.• www.playwilmington.org 116 Orange St. 910-254-3534

film Dior and I

3/30, 7pm (4pm on 30), $8: Frédéric Tcheng’s solo directorial debut brings the viewer inside the storied world of the Christian Dior fashion house with a privileged, behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Raf Simons’ first haute couture collection as its new artistic director-a true labor of love created by a dedicated group of collaborators. Melding the everyday, pressurefilled components of fashion with mysterious echoes from the iconic brand’s past, the film is also a colorful homage to the seamstresses who serve Simons’ vision. (Rated R, 1 hour, 30 mins).

Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St.

MUSTANG

4/4-8, 7pm: In a remote Turkish village, five teenage sisters (Günes Sensoy, Tugba Sunguroglu, Elit Iscan) try to break free from the rigid destiny imposed on them by their family. Their fierce love for each other emboldens them to rebel and chase a future where they can determine their own lives in Deniz Gamze Ergüven’s debut, a powerful portrait of female empowerment. Mustang was an official selection of the 2015 Cannes Film Festival Directors’ Fortnight and has been nominated for the Best Foreign Film Academy Award. (Rated PG-13, 1 hour 37 mins). Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St.

kids stuff SUPER SATURDAY FUN TIME

Appropriate for ages 4-10, but all ages welcome. Dock the Dog and Dock Street Kids for

10 exciting episodes of Super Saturday Fun Time, TheatreNOW’s live theatrical show featuring local history and mystery and super guest stars, hosted by Captain Coy T. Plunkett (Zach Hanner). Live music, games, cartoons, short films, and his favorite surf “nuggets.” Dock Street Kids and their always-hungry dog, Dock, solve adventures. Parents can even drop off kids ages 5+. Kid-friendly snacks and drinks available for purchase. We also do custom birthday packages with a chance to interact with all the characters and even step onstage and be a part of the action. /26: Mystery of Blackbeard Story Explorers

Cameron Art Museum, every Thurs., 1010:30am: Admission by donation. Bring your infant, toddler or preschooler for story time, gallery exploration and an art project! georgia@ cameronartmuseum.org for more info. 3201 S. 17th St.

HAMMERHEADS SOCCER

The goal of the Wilmington Hammerheads and the Wrightsville Beach Parks & Recreation Department is to provide the highest quality soccer coaching program to the youth of our community. Hammerhead Players and Youth staff will teach the fundamental skills and advanced technical and tactical play necessary to enhance each player’s game. Continues through May 3. 1 Bob Sawyer Dr.

IT’S RAINING, IT’S POURING

3/31, 10am: Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme.

In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Parental participation is required.

Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

BACK TO ‘80S PERFORMANCE CLUB

3/31, 4:30pm: With nods to iconic 80s teen movies (like Back to the Future, Sixteen Candles, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off) thru playful skits, the Performance Club will entertain family and friends with a final rockin’ performance in the park that captures the hit sounds of the decade!

Wrightsville Beach Children’s Theater in the Park is a tuition based theater program directed by LJ Woodard of the Performance Club. No audition necessary; we learn by playing and play by acting in a stress free and positive environment!

All levels accepted and ideal for parents who seek an easy rehearsal schedule. Final performance at amphitheater is free for friends, family and the community! Min. 10 students is required and a maximum of 22 students is allowed for each class; K-8. Wrightsville Beach Parks and Rec Dept.,1 Bob Sawyer Dr.

CFCC SUMMER CAMPS

4/4, 9am: CFCC is offering affordable half-day summer camps that immerse children (ages 8—13) in creative, fun, and educational activities that focus on encouraging a sense of exploration and adventure, broadening cultural and creative horizons, and teaching important home economic skills. Choose from: Discover Scuba, Sew Much Fun, Painting with Acrylics, Kids in the Kitchen, and Spanish Immersion.

Camps will run from 6/20-8/4, Mon.-Thurs., 9am-1pm. $150-$200 (additional supplies may be required). Pre-reg. rqd. www.cfcc.edu/summercamp. Cape Fear Community College, 411 N. Front St.

little explorers: rooting for plants

4/7, 10am: Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, explora-

58 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

tion stations and play related to a weekly theme.

In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Parental participation is required.

Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market Street

lectures/readings GOING GREEN BOOK CLUB

First Tues of ea. month, 6pm. 2016 will feature a nice range of themes, plus a couple of back-ups just in case obtaining any turned out to be problematic. 4/5: Speaking for Nature: The Literary Naturalists, from Transcendentalism to the Birth of the American. Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.

PEDALING FOR PAGES BOOK CLUB

Arrive by bike to receive the bicycle discount everyday. We do have a bike rack just outside the door and two more on the block. The group will read a selection that includes, fiction, biography, history, and memoir. Open to all levels of bicycle interest and ability. Meetings are last Thurs. of mo. at 6pm. March-Mud, Sweat and Gears by Joe Kurmaskie (bicycle tour across Canada with his family!); April-Fat Tire Flyer by Charlie Kelly (history of early days of mountain biking by those who lived it); May-Joyride by Mia Birk (National Bike Month so its a book about advocacy and working towards a more cycling friendly world); June: Half Man, Half Bike. The Life of Eddy Merckx by William Futheringhom; July: The Yellow Jersey by Ralph Hurne; August: Rusch to Glory: Adventure, Risk, and Triumph on the Path Less Traveled by Rebecca Rusch; Oct: Two Wheels: A Cycling Murder Mystery by Greg Moody; Nov: Bike Snob: Systematically and Mercilessly Realigning the World of Cycling

by BikeSnobNYC. Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.

LECTURE SERIES: JERRY GREENFIELD

3/30, 7pm: Jerry Greenfield and his longtime friend and business partner Ben Cohen are the men behind one of the most talked-about, and least conventional success stories in American business. Co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, Inc., Greenfield has helped to build a store front venture into an ice cream and business marvel by making social responsibility and creative management strengths, rather than weaknesses. Free for Students/faculty/staff $10 to the general public. UNCW, Burney Center, 601 S. College Rd.

Lecture with Dr. Monica Gisolfi

3/31, 6:30pm: Racism and the Politics of Confederate Memorialization.’ Lecture with Dr. Monica Gisolfi. We are collectively facing a national debate over the meaning of the Civil War and politics of Confederate Memorialization. This talk provides an examination of the history and context of confederate memorials in Wilmington, and provides a starting point for a discussion about the implications of commemorating the Confederacy in our everyday landscape. Dr. Monica Gisolfi is a professor of history at UNCW. She is an expert on the history of the American South. Lecture is free. Donations appreciated.

Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market St.

Changing Your Behavior/Habits

3/31, 7pm: Art Markman PhD, author of BestSelling “Smart Thinking” and “Smart Change” and Leading Cognitive Scientist from Univ. of Texas will give a thought provoking lecture on the way our mind works and the motivational system that drives behavior. Learn the basic tools needed to empower you to make sustainable long-term changes in your habits.

Consciousness. Frontier Lecture Hall, 717 Or-

chard Ave. CHANGING YOUR BEHAVIOR/HABITS

3/31, 7pm: Art Markman PhD, author of Best-Selling “Smart Thinking” and “Smart Change” and Leading Cognitive Scientist from Univ. of Texas, will give a thought provoking lecture on the way our minds work and the motivational system that drives behavior. Learn basic tools needed to empower you to make sustainable long-term changes in your habits. Consciousness Frontier Lecture Hall, 717 Orchard Ave.

REFLECTIONS ON HERBERT

4/3: Join historian Jan Davidson as she showcases the museum’s Herbert Howard photographic collection. These wonderful rarely displayed images highlight many facets of African Americans’ life experiences during the age of legally sanctioned segregation. Free. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.

CATHY DAY

4/5, 7pm: Cathy Day is coming to UNCW to speak about her books and answer questions from students and guests. There will be a book signing after the event. UNCW’s Warwick Center Ballroom, 601 S. College Rd.

better to PLAN 10 YEARS TOO EARLY

4/6, 9am: Jason Clamme, LCFH director of community outreach, will facilitate the conference and will present Begin the Conversation. He will share important strategies and resources to help communicate and document healthcare choices. Jason Wheeler, CEO of Pathfinder Wealth Consulting, will present Living Legacy: Discovering What’s Really Important to discuss generational divides within families

4/3: REFLECTIONS ON HERBERT The Cape Fear Museum will offer a special walk-through as part of their current exhibit, “Reflections in Black and White.” The museum historian, Jan Davidson, will showcase the Herbert Howard photographic collection which highlight African American’s life experiences during segregation. The program is free with admission and can be viewed at Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market Street. that limit effective communication. Amy Florian, CEO of Corgenius, will discuss how to retain control over how you are treated as you age. Registration required; lunch will be provided. Sponsored by Lower Cape Fear Hospice, Wilmington Funeral and Cremation, and Pathfinder Wealth Consulting. Jason Clamme at 796-7943 or email Jason.Clamme@ lcfh.org. www.lcfh.org

classes YOGA FOR PTSD/SPECIAL POPULATIONS

Despite tough economic times, donations, volunteerism, and social activism are on the rise.

The Kunga Yoga Service Leadership Training is for yoga teachers, students, activists, community leaders, and anyone feeling the call to give back and help others. Kunga Yoga Service Leadership Training offers the opportunity to

explore the process of leadership development through self-inquiry and transformation, so as to become effective community leaders and outreach facilitators. From this foundation of leadership, and development of a personal purpose and mission statement, participants develop their own service project, and gain the specific “hard skillset” teaching techniques for working with trauma-sensitive and special populations. Thurs, 3/31 through Sun, 4/3 9am-6pm. Wilmington Yoga Center, 5329 Oleander Dr., Ste. 200 HOT YOGA

True beginners yoga. Teacher will tell you what you need to do in class and you can watch the other students. This basic series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises, practiced in a hot room, is taught in a manner that allows the practice to be done by beginners, people with limited mobility, and people with chronic illness, but is also challenging enough for athletes.

Wilmington Bikram Yoga, 5424 Oleander Dr. LIGHT YOGA W/LISA

Wed, 12:15pm: Gentle / Beginner Yoga. Be kind to the body, easy on the mind, good for the soul!

Exhale Yoga and Wellness Studio, 16 S. Front St.

INTEGRATIVE HEALING ARTS

Gentle Beginner Yoga, 8:30-9:15am, with Lisa Keating. Bring yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. Lisa will lead you through gentle yoga postures and breathwork as you find and connect with your inner self. • Workshops 9:30am4:15pm: Delve into information provided by knowledgeable teachers and learn about yourself through self-hypnosis, hand analysis, psychic and intuitive practices, physical movement, meditation, massage, and more.

Learn to maintain the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual body in a timeless condition of vibrant natural harmony. We offer four session with 19 different workshops to choose from. unitywil.com. Unity of Wilmington, 717 Orchard Ave. PILOXING SSP

Thurs, 6:30pm: A high-energy interval workout that uniquely blends the power, speed, and agility of boxing with the targeted sculpting and flexibility of pilates. Supplemented by the use of weighted gloves, further toning the arms and maximizing cardiovascular health. Add to that fun dance moves for a workout that will tone muscle, burn fat and empower you both physically and mentally. 31 Fitness, 4209 Oleander Drive Suite 8

beach bound boot camp

Mon/Wed classes, 3/28-6/6, 9-10am: Variety of feasible exercises including calisthenics, low impact cardio, and resistance training. Beach Bound Boot Camp seeks to provide a transformational experience through effective training while fostering relationships that will encourage success. Pre-reg. is rqd. Call the Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation Office at 2567925, visit our website www.townofwrightsvillebeach.com, or email parksandrecreation@towb. org. 1 Bob Sawyer Dr.

weight loss 101

Register today for an upcoming Continuing Education course. Class begins next week!

Discover how to establish a healthy approach to weight loss and weight management, and gain the skills to help you accomplish your nutrition and lifestyle goals. In this course, you will explore common chronic diseases associated

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER GREAT OUTDOOR PATIO LOCAL ARTIST FEATURED EACH MONTH 250 Racine Drive • Wilmington, NC Racine Commons • 910.523.5362 www.BlueSurfCafe.com encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 59

with excess weight and learn how proper nutrition can decrease symptoms, as well as prevent future health complications. Additionally, this course will help you identify your individual needs with regard to weight loss and/or weight management by providing basic nutrition information, tools for self-evaluation, physical activity guidelines, and tips for navigating the current food culture. 10 contact hours. April 5-May 3, Tues., 6-8pm; CFCC Wilmington Campus. $75 ANNUALS AND PERENNIALS

3/31, 6-8pm: Annuals and Perennials for the Garden Class at the NHC Arboretum, 6206 Oleander Dr. Class fee is $10 and pre-registration is required. Join us for a class on annuals and perennials that grow well in our region.

Topics such as color, planting designs and plant species. Stop by and register at the Arboretum Office, Mon.-Fri. from 8am to 5pm or for a printable registration form to mail, go to: http://arboretum.nhcgov.com/ annuals-and-perennials. New Hanover County Arboretum, 6206 Oleander Dr.

Raider Project Transition Seminar

4/1, 8pm: Your transition plan is your azimuth. Straying a couple of degrees over a stretch of years can result in broken relationships, crushed dreams, financial ruin, lack of purpose, and despair. The longer you spend offazimuth, the harder it is to get back – but it’s never impossible. We are excited to offer our first seminar and we’ve rallied some of the brightest minds that have served our men and women in their transition process. We set out on a mission to bring people together and equip them with the necessary tools to transition successfully.

Seminar is for any service member that is separating within two years, or a veteran that is still in a transitional period. Wilmington Convention Center, 515 Nutt St.

and Maurice Smith ‘79! Meet the recipients along with alumni and faculty at the CSB Outstanding Alumni Recognition & Speaker Breakfast Wed., 3/30. Tickets are $5/person. Reg: https://giving. uncw.edu/csbalumnibreakfast2016 • Winners breakfast: 3/30, 7pm: Meet the recipients along with alumni and faculty at the CSB Outstanding Alumni Recognition & Speaker Breakfast. $5/ person. Reg.: https://giving.uncw.edu/csbalumnibreakfast2016. alumni@uncw.edu. UNCW’s Warwick Center Ballroom, 601 S. College Rd.

HOW TO MAKE A COAT RACK

4/9, 9:30am: Legacy Architectural Salvage in Wilmington, NC, presents How To Make an Entryway Coat Rack. Learn how to make your own coat rack, using reclaimed architectural materials! This is a free workshop, but please RSVP by email or phone. Workshops generally last about

HOBBY GREENHOUSE PLANT SALE

3/31: ANNUALS & PERENNIALS On Thursday, folks looking to update their gardens will have a chance to learn all about annuals and perennials at the NHC Arboretum (6206 Oleander Dr.). The class will cover color and planting designs, as well as species of plants. Register at the Arboretum office or online at http://arboretum. nhcgov.com. The class is only $10 and will take place on the 31 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

90 minutes. Legacy Architectural Salvage Behind Stevens Ace Hardware, 1831 Dawson St.

clubs/notices 2016 CSB Outstanding Alumni Award

Winners are Charles Craft ‘79, David Pirrung ‘90,

4/9-10, 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.

2318 Metts Ave. Free. Fri. and Sat., 9am6pm; Sun. 12-5pm. Cash or check only. www. hobbygreenhouseclub.org info@hobbygreenhouseclub.org.

YOUNG DEMOCRATS OF NHC

Meet the 1st and 3rd Tues. ea. month at the downtown public library, third floor, 6:30pm.

Ages 18-35.

COUPON CLUB

Wilmington Coupon Club meets monthly, second Monday, at 6pm Come exchange coupons and learn how to save money. wilmingtoncouponclub.com

NEW HANOVER NAACP MEETING

The New Hanover NAACP monthly meeting is Thurs., 3/31, 7pm, St. Stephen AME Church, 501 Red Cross St. Featured speaker is Candace Thompson, Interim Director of the Upperman African American Cultural Center at UNC-Wilmington. Members and friends are encouraged to attend. For more information, call 910-765-0102

or email nhcnaacp@gmail.com.

North Brunswick Newcomers Club

April meeting on Fri., 4/8, at the Brunswick Community College, Leland Campus, located at 2050 Enterprise Blvd. in Leland. A Meet and Greet gathering will begin at 9:30 am with snacks and refreshments and the meeting will follow at 10am. FYI speaker for April will be Mike Powell, president of the Brunswick Civil War Roundtable Club. Club’s mission is to promote interest in and disseminate knowledge of the Civil War, through various speakers at regular Round Table meetings and other special events.

Another goal of the Round Table is to promote, encourage, and support Civil War Battlefield Preservation. Brunswick Roundtable is largest in NC with over 800 members. Brunswick Comm.

College, 2050 Enterprise Dr NE

culinary PC BREW BUS

Port City Brew Bus offers public brewery tours that are open to anyone 21 years or older. Eat a hearty breakfast before the tour. We will have pretzels, snacks, and water but there isn’t a stop for lunch. Visit three breweries to experience their facilities, understand the brewing process unique to their beers and enjoy samples of their offerings. $55. www.portcitybrewbus.com. (910) 679-6586

SUNDAY SUPPERS: PINPOINT

PinPoint will launch a new Sunday Supper dinner series on Sundays to showcase area farmers and purveyors. Dinners will benefit area charities for the entire month they are offered.

Start off Azalea Festival right with great food and drinks at Wilmington’s newest restaurant!

SOUTHERN PINES BREWING COMPANY TAP TAKEOVER THURSDAY, APRIL 7TH FROM 6-9PM FEATURING THEIR MAN OF LAW IPA. BREWMASTER MICAH NIEBAUER WILL BE ON SIGHT!

5500 MARKET ST , SUITE 130 (910)-769-1798 • MON - SUN: 11:30AM - 2AM 60 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

For the first month. Showcasing local farmer Wholesome Greens—an artisanal suburban farm in Wilmington. Three-course menu will feature some of the microgreens, herbs and produce grown by the farmer and will be served in a family-style offering. Sun., 5-8pm for special Sunday Supper menu—$25/person and $10 for kids 3-12. Limited seating at 6:30pm for guests to dine specifically with the farmer and a representative of the charity at a special long table in the restaurant, served family style. 10 percent of all money raised during the March Sunday Supper series will benefit the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina at Wilmington. www. pinpointrestaurant.com. 114 Market St. NATURE’S WAY GOAT FARM

Nature’s Way Goat Farm tour! Nature’s Way supplies the co-op with a variety of goat cheese.

Learn about the farm, meet the farmers, and feed and play with the baby goats. Tickets must be purchased in advance at Tidal Creek, $5-$10. Visitors can arrive at 10am and play with the baby goats, with the feeding starting at 11am. Farm tour will follow and wrap by noon.

Farm fresh products available for purchase after the tour. 115 Crystal Ct., Hampstead.

FERMENTAL

Free tasting ever Friday, 6pm. Fermental, 7250 Market St.

TASTE CAROLINA FOOD TOURS

Sample an eclectic assortment of downtown restaurants, enjoy food and drink, and meet some of the city’s best chefs. Public parking available.

Saturday tours include a 2:30pm Downtown Afternoon Tasting Tour ($50/person) and a 3pm Downtown Dinner & Drinks Tour ($65/person).

A 10am Farmers’ Market Tour ($75/person) and cooking class available. tastecarolina.net

WILMINGTON VEGAN POTLUCKS

Wilmington Vegan Supper Club Potlucks take place every first Thursday of every month at 6:30pm at Kitchen & Lounge at South Front Apartments, located on Greenfield Street at 2nd Street, across the street from Satellite. Bring a vegan dish to share, and swap recipes and socialize. Wilmington Vegan Lending Library will be there for you to grab a book as well. Bring a list of ingredients along with your dish (or even better, the recipe!. Dishes absolutely must be completely vegan—no meat, no fish, no dairy, no eggs, no chicken stock, no honey, and so on. Bring a plate, utensils, and a drink. http:// wilmingtonvegan.com

ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

According to my astrological analysis, you would benefit profoundly from taking a ride in a jet fighter plane 70,000 feet above the earth. In fact, I think you need to experience weightlessness as you soar faster than the speed of sound. Luckily, there’s an organization, MiGFlug (migflug.com), to provide you with this healing thrill. (I just hope you can afford the $18,000 price tag.)

April Fool! I do in fact think you should treat yourself to unprecedented thrills and transcendent adventures. But I bet you can accomplish that without being quite so extravagant.

Your advice for the near future comes from poet Stephen Dunn: “If the Devil sits down, offer companionship, tell her you’ve always admired her magnificent, false moves.” I think it’s an excellent plan, Libra! Maybe you’ll even be lucky enough to make the acquaintance of many different devils with a wide variety of magnificent, false moves. April Fool! In fact, I think you should avoid contact with all devils, no matter how enticing they might be. Now is a key time to surround yourself with positive influences.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) “People only get really interesting when they start to rattle the bars of their cages,” philosopher Alain de Botton says. If that’s true, Taurus, you must be on the verge of becoming very interesting. Metaphorically speaking, you’re not just rattling the bars of your cage. You’re also smacking your tin cup against the bars and trying to saw through them with your plastic knife. April Fool!

You’re not literally in a prison cell; I got a bit carried away with the metaphor.

But there is a grain of truth there: You are getting close to breaking free of at least some of your mind-forged manacles, and it’s making you more attractive and intriguing.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) If I had to decide what natural phenomenon you most closely resemble right now, I’d consider comparing you to a warm, restless breeze or a busily playful dolphin. But my first choice would be the mushrooms known as “Schizophyllum commune.” They’re highly adaptable: able to go dormant when the weather’s dry and spring to life when rain comes. They really get around, too, making their homes on every continent except Antarctica. But the main reason I’d link you with them is that they come in over 28,000 different sexes. Their versatility is unprecedented. April Fool! It’s true t you’re polymorphous and multifaceted and well-rounded, but you’re probably not capable of expressing 28,000 varieties of anything.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) “Whatever it is you’re seeking won’t come in the form you’re expecting,” Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami warns. If that’s true, why bother? Why expend all your precious yearning if the net result won’t even satisfy your yearning?! That’s why I advise you to abandon your beloved plans! Save your energy for trivial wishes. That way you won’t be disappointed when they are fulfilled in unanticipated ways. April Fool! It’s true what you want won’t arrive in the form you’re expecting, but I bet the result will be even better than what you expected.

tors syndiCate Culinary Techniques: Spring Brunch

4/2, 9am: Just in time for Mother’s Day, graduation celebrations, and seasonal wedding and baby showers, this class will teach you how to

In 1841 a British medical journal prescribed the following remedy for the common cold: “Nail a hat on the wall near the foot of your bed, then retire to that bed, and drink spirits until you see two hats.” My expert astrological analysis reveals this treatment is likely to cure not just the sniffles, but also any other discomforts you’re suffering from, whether physical or emotional or spiritual. So I hope you own a hat, hammer and nails. April Fool! I The method I suggested probably won’t help alleviate what ails you. Here’s a strategy that might: Get rid of anything that’s superfluous, rotten, outdated, or burdensome.’

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) To begin your oracle, I’ll borrow the words of author Ray Bradbury: “May you be in love every day for the next 20,000 days, and out of that love, remake a world.” I have reason to believe this optimistic projection has a good chance of coming true for you. Imagine it, Sagittarius: daily swoons of delight and rapture from now until the year 2071. April Fool! Sort of. It would be foolish to predict you’ll be giddy with amorous feelings nonstop for the next 54 years and 10 months. On the other hand, I don’t think it’s unrealistic for you to expect a lot of that sweet stuff over the course of the next three weeks.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) “I am tired of being brave,” Anne Sexton groaned in one of her poems.

“I’m sick of following my dreams,” comedian Mitch Hedberg moaned, adding, “I’m just going to ask my dreams where they’re going and hook up with them later.” In my opinion, Capricorn, you have every right to unleash grumbles similar to Hedberg’s and Sexton’s. April Fool! That advice is only half-correct. It’s true you need and deserve a respite from your earnest struggles. Now is indeed a good time to take a break so you can recharge your spiritual batteries. But don’t you dare feel sorry for yourself.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You’re due to make a pilgrimage, aren’t you? It might be time to shave your head, sell your possessions, and head out on a long trek to a holy place where you can get back in touch with what the hell you’re doing here on this planet.

April Fool! Just kidding about the head-shaving and possessions-dumping.

On the other hand, there might be value in embarking on a less melodramatic pilgrimage. I think you’re ready to seek radical bliss of a higher order—and get back in touch with what the hell you’re doing here on this planet.

In 1991 hikers in the Italian Alps discovered the well-preserved corpse of a Bronze Age hunter. Buried in the frigid terrain, the man who came to be known as Otzi the Iceman had been there for 5,000 years. Soon the museum that claimed his body began receiving inquiries from women who wanted to be impregnated with Otzi’s sperm. I think this is an apt metaphor for you, Aquarius. Consider the possibility you might benefit from being fertilized by an influence from long ago. April Fool! It’s true you can generate good mojo by engaging with inspirational influences from the past, but I’d never urge you to be guided by a vulgar metaphor related to Otzi’s sperm.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

Are you ready to fight the monster? Do you have the courage and strength and stamina and guile to overcome the ugly beast that’s blocking the path to the treasure? If not, turn around and head back to your comfort zone until you’re better prepared. April Fool! There is a monster, but it’s not the literal embodiment of a beastly adversary. Rather, it’s inside you. It’s an unripe part of yourself that needs to be taught, tamed and cared for. Until you develop a better relationship with it, it will just keep testing you. (P.S. Now would be a good time to develop a better relationship with it.)

Caligula was an eccentric Roman emperor who had a physical resemblance to a goat. He was sensitive about it. That’s why he made it illegal for anyone to refer to goats in his company. I mention this, Pisces, because I’d like to propose a list of words you should forbid to be used in your presence during the coming weeks: “money,” “cash,” “finances,” “loot,” “savings,” or “investments.” Why? Because I’m afraid it would be distracting, even confusing or embarrassing, for you to think about these sore subjects right now. April Fool! Now is a perfect time for you to be focused on getting richer quicker.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

PIMA cotton (1 Across) is named

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

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prepare delectable dishes such as eggs Benedict, various tarts & muffins and mouth-watering breakfast quiches. Cost: $50 per person. Limited space available! Pre-registration required by 3/30. Cape Fear Community College Union Station, 502 N. Front Street FISH FRY

4/1, noon: Choice of Large Whiting Fillet or North Carolina Farm Raised Catfish Nuggets.

Each meal comes with Coleslaw, Potato Salad, Hushpuppies, Sweet or “Yankee” tea, $8.

Have an extra portion of fish for just $2 more.

Beer and wine is also for purchase in our Canteen. American Legion Post 129, 1500 Bridge Barrier Rd.

TASTING HISTORY TOURS

Tasting History Tours of Pleasure Island; guided walking tours. From its beginnings as a tourist destination, the island has weathered destructive fires, tragic hurricanes, naval battles and more. Tasting History takes you through the streets of Carolina Beach and into a few of the restaurants to taste some of what the locals have to offer. Join us for an afternoon of interesting history and tasty eats. $32.50. www.tastinghistorytours.com. 910-622-6046.

support groups CELEBRATE RECOVERy

Life Community Church, located inside Independence Mall, will have a Celebrate Recovery meeting every Monday evening at 6:30 pm starting with fellowship followed by a large group meeting at 7 pm. Support groups for men and women follow at 8 pm. The meeting is in the Extension located across from Branches bookstore and the church auditorium. For more information. contact Jodie at 910-547-8973 , LifeCC office at 791-3859 or go to Lifecc.com. Life Community Church, 3500 Oleander Dr.

TRANSGENDER SUPPORT GROUP

Transgender Support Group, 1st Thurs./mo., 7-8pm. For more information please contact Therapist Nova Swanstrom: 910-343-6890. You must talk with Nova first before coming to a support group meeting!

CHADD

Wilmington Area CHADD meets on the 2nd Monday of every month from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B. This free support group is open to a growing group of parents, grandparents and individuals affected by AD/ HD who understand what it takes to face its daily challenges. Free. Pine Valley United Methodist Church 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B. http:// www.WilmingtonCHADD.org

PFLAG

PFLAG Meeting is first Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.

BEGIN THE CONVERSATION CLINICS

third Friday of each month, at Phillips LifeCare & Counseling Center, 1414 Physicians Drive in Wilmington. These sessions, which are free to all adults age 18 and older, will provide attendees information and resources to think about and plan for future healthcare decisions. Attendees will receive specific strategies for initiating conversations that can significantly reduce family stress and improve quality of care. Advance directives, such as Living Wills and Healthcare Power of Attorney forms, will be supplied so healthcare instructions can be legally documented.Jason Clamme at 796-7943 or jason. clamme@lcfh.org.

NAMI WILMINGTON

National Alliance on Mental Illness: “CFAC and Trillium Health Resources Working Together.”

The two organizations will discuss working together to help people with disabilities. Mon., 3/28, 6:30 pm. First Baptist Activities Center, 1939 Independence Blvd. www.namiwilmington.org or 910-772-3074

tours LITERARY HISTORY WALKING TOUR

Ever wanted to meet authors living and dead, and tour locations from books, poems, and plays? Explore the rich culture of our talented Southern town with a 90 minute walking tour of the literary history of downtown Wilmington, NC. Visit “The Two Libraries.” Walk the streets of your favorite novels, and stand where Oscar Wilde did when he lectured here. Saturdays, 1:30pm, Old Books on Front St. 249 N. Front St. www. brownpapertickets.com/event/1282390

CONFEDERATE WALKING TOURS

Experience Wilmington’s people, history and architecture in the late antebellum period and during the conflict, conducted by noted Wilmington historian Bernhard Thuersam. Walk in the footsteps of George Washington, James Monroe, Daniel Webster, Henry Clay, Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis, Alexander Stephens and more. Indepth 90-minute tours are by appointment only, Sunday through Saturday, call 910.619.4619 or bernhard1848@gmail.com for current prices.

Step-on and personalized tours downtown and local forts available. Tour begins at foot of Market St. www.cfhi.net.

GHOST WALK

6:30pm & 8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted Wilmington. Nightly tours at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. Admission charge. Meets at Water & Market streets. Reservations required: 910-7941866; www.hauntedwilmington.com

HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE TOURS

Narrated horse drawn carriage and trolley tours of historic Wilmington feature a costumed driver who narrates a unique adventure along the riverfront and past stately mansions.Market and Water streets. $12 for adults, $5 per child. (910) 251-8889 or www.horsedrawntours.com

Lower Cape Fear Hospice will host free Begin the Conversation clinics from 10-11am the

Enter your events online by noon, Thursdays, for consideration in print. www.encorepub.com 62 encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com

CORKBOARD Available for your next CD or Demo

KAREN KANE MUSIC PRODUCTIONS 33 year veteran Producer/Engineer

200 album credits

Dreaming Of A Career In The Music Industry?

AUDIO ENGINEERING CLASSES Music Recording, Mixing, Pro Tools, Studio Production Classes offered in Jan., Apr. and Sept.

(910) 681-0220 or mixmama.com

WHAT IF YOU COULD JUST SAY “NO!” TO CANCER, DIABETES, STRESS, DEPRESSION OR ADDICTION?

HOW?

CALL NOW: 910-343-1171

A Night ON the tOwN

Three Girls

5’5”, 36DDD, Very Assertive

were spotted eating $8.99 dinners at the Brewery last night. That left them with plenty of money to enjoy a microbrew & homemade chocolate scottish ale ice cream too! Lucky girls! But the guys who met them there were even luckier!

For Executives and Refined Gents Brunette Model/Social Companion

910-616-8301 tAtiANA36ddd@AOl.cOm

iNtegRitY tRee cARe FREAKY TIKI Tree Pruning & Removal across from Goat & Compass Licensed and Insured

FREE ESTIMATES 910-547-5376

Cape Fear Stage’s Closest Cocktail Front Street Brewery 910.251.1935 Bar ~ Concert Night Specials 9 North Front Street, Downtown Wilmington Open 2am nightly

FREAKY TIKI PRIVATE PIANO corner of 4th & Brunswick

Your Late Night Cocktail Bar Open Until 2am

FREE POOL

Pianist Barbara mcKenzie an expert, dedicated artist-teacher

FrontStreetBrewery.com

PERSONAL TRAINER On Your Neighbors Lawn or Wherever It’s Comfortable

From Deconditioned to Sports Specific

Call Will at 735-513-2618 for Complimentary Session

Ed. M., NASM Cert., ACSM Affil., Cert. Bosu Swiss Ball, Bands, Kettlebell Instructor

www.kettlebellconcepts.com

GET INSPIRED!!

Now Hiring Acoustic Jazz Piano on Front St. DON’T TRY TO CHANGE SPARK YOUR SKILLS! FABULOUS ENTERTAINmENT THE WIND OR THE SEA. with James Jarvis Exotic Dancers Adults or Students Wednesday @ The Blind Elephant In-Out Calls • Casual Events JUST CHANGE Two Girl Show • Bachelor Parties Saturday @ The Calico Room CONTACT: 24/7 Dancers • Serious Inquiries Only THE SAIL. Sunday @ Old Books on Front St. Always Hiring BarbaraMcKenzie2008@gmail.com www.facebook.com/JamesJarvis13 CALL NOW: 910-343-1171 910-726-5323

encore | march 30 – april 5, 2016 | www.encorepub.com 63