encore May 22 - May 28, 2019

T H E C A P E F E A R ’ S A LT E R N AT I V E V O I C E F O R 3 5 Y E A R S !

VOL. 36 / PUB. 42 MAY 22 - 28, 2019 ENCOREPUB.COM

FREE

HODGEPODGE

Vol. 36/Pub. 36/Pub. 742 Vol.

22 - May 28, 2019 September 12May - September 18, 2018

ON THE COVER

WWW.ENCOREPUB.COM

Friday, May - 11 a.m.

Sunday, May 626, 1 p.m.

FISH SMART CELEBRATION Living in a coastal community means sustainable and healthy fish consumption is important. Folks can learn more about both at Northern Regional Park (4700 Old Ave.) in Castle Hayne at the Fish Smart Celebration. Enjoy live music, vendors, giveaways and fresh fish meals prepared by Chef Keith Rhodes with Catch the Food Truck; and Chef Dean Neff, formerly of Pinpoint, will demonstrate healthy ways to prepare fish at home. This will be a bilingual event with materials in Spanish and translator on site. Free.

BEST OF 2019, PGS. 4-7 Pineapple-Shaped Lamps hosted encore’s Best Of Awards celebration, Bestival 2019, at Waterline Brewing, dolling out 200 awards! We have winners, writeups and photos inside!

Photo by Chris Brehmer Photography

M

MUSIC>>

A duo of besties, Logan Chaucer and Sam Baker make up Wilmington’s Blue Footed Boobies, who recently released a new single they’ll play at Bourgie Nights this Friday with other new rock-n-roll and blues inspired tunes.

Photo by Drew Marks

T

Editor-in-Chief:

PG. 16

Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com

Assistant Editor:

Photo by Tom Dorgan

Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com

Lizzie Borden has become infamous in Amiercan history and now her brutal murders are becoming a punk-rock musical, “Lizzy Borden: The Musical.” Panache opens it this week before it hits Off-Broadway come August.

Courtesy photo

Art Director/Office Manager:

Susie Riddle // ads@encorepub.com

Chief Contributors: Gwenyfar Rohler, Anghus,

Tom Tomorrow, Chuck Shepherd, Mark Basquill, Rosa Bianca, Rob Brezsny, Joan C. Wilkerson, John Wolfe, Fanny Slater

SALES>

General Manager:

D

DINING>> Agostino’s on New Centre is slinging foldable NY-style pies and pastas at a fair price—and Rosa Bianca ain’t complaining. Can you say “white pizza topped with creamy ricotta and radiant spinach” or “meatlovers delight”?

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.

EDITORIAL>

<<THEATRE

PG. 26

EVENT OF THE WEEK

John Hitt // john@encorepub.com

Advertising:

Megan Henry // megan@encorepub.com John Hitt // john@encorepub.com Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com Published on Wednesday by HP Media. Opinions of contributing writers are not the opinions of encore.

PG. 41

INSIDE THIS WEEK: Best Of, pgs. 4-11 • Live Local, pgs. 12-13 • News of the Weird, pg. 14 Music, pgs. 16-21 • Art, pgs. 23-25 • Theatre, pgs. 26-28 • Film, pg. 33 • Dining, pgs. 34-41 Extra, pg. 42 • Crossword, pg. 55 • Horoscopes, pg. 53 • Calendar, pgs. 44-54

2 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

P.O. Box 12430, Wilmington, N.C. 28405 www.encorepub.com

THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER IS NOW AN ELECTRIFYING NEW ROCK MUSICAL THAT WILL THRILL THE WHOLE FAMILY!

“ONE FOOT IN ‘HARRY POTTER’ AND ANOTHER IN ‘DEAR EVAN HANSEN’.”

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

JUNE 4 & 5 AT 7:30 PM • WILSON CENTER

TICKET CENTRAL • 910.362.7999 • WILSONCENTERTICKETS.COM BOOK BY

JOE TRACZ MUSIC & LYRICS BY ROB ROKICKI CHOREOGRAPHY BY PATRICK MCCOLLUM DIRECTED BY STEPHEN BRACKET ADAPTED FROM THE BOOK “PERCY JACKSON AND THE LIGHTNING THIEF” BY RICK RIORDAN encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 3

encore Readers’ Choice Awards

WINNERS & RUNNER-UPS MEDIA, ARTS & ENTERTINMENT BEST ACTRESS

KENDRA GOEHRING-GARRETT Holli Saperstein Susan Auten

BEST ACTOR

PATRICK BASQUILL JEFF PHILLIPS David Bollinger

BEST ARCADE / GAME ROOM

BLUE POST

Jungle Rapids Orton’s Billiards and Pool

BEST ARTIST — MALE

BRADLEY CARTER Nathan Verwey Allan Nance

BEST ARTIST — FEMALE

ADDIE JO BANNERMAN Carleigh Sion Candy Pegram

BEST ART GALLERY

BOTTEGA ART AND WINE Art in Bloom Eclipse Artisan Boutique

BEST BAND

L SHAPE LOT

Striking Copper Signal Fire

BEST BOWLING ALLEY

CARDINAL LANES Ten Pin Alley Beach Bowl

BEST COMEDY TROUPE

PINEAPPLE-SHAPED LAMPS Nutt House Improv Troupe

BEST CULTURAL PROGRAMMING

WILSON CENTER

WHQR UNCW Office of the Arts

BEST DANCE CLUB

IBIZA

Goodfellas Pravda

BEST DANCE SCHOOL

TECHNIQUES IN MOTION

Studio 1 Dance Conservatory Danzquest

BEST DJ

ACTIVE DJ ENTERTAINMENT (JAY TATUM)

DJ Battle The Beehive Blondes

BEST EVENT PLANNER

KNOT TOO SHABBY EVENTS Kickstand Events Shauna Loves Planning

BEST GAY CLUB

IBIZA

Tails Piano Bar Bottega Art and Wine

BEST INDOOR SPORTS/REC FACILITY

DEFY GRAVITY

YMCA Flip N Fly Off the Wall Sports LLC

BEST KARAOKE BAR

REEL CAFE

% OF BEST SMALL MUSIC VENUE (<600) VOTES BROOKLYN ARTS CENTER 36% 34% 30% 34% 34% 32% 45% 44% 11% 42% 29% 29% 40% 34% 26% 41% 38% 21% 43% 30% 27% 40% 38% 22% 54% 46%

Reggies 42nd St. Tavern Bourgie Nights

49% 28% 23%

BEST LARGE MUSIC VENUE (>600)

GREENFIELD LAKE AMPHITHEATRE 68% Wilson Center Pier 33

BEST FILMMAKER

HONEY HEAD FILMS Shannon Silva Billy Lewis

24% 8% 51% 29% 20%

BEST LOCAL INDIE FILM

CLASS DISMISSED (DEVIN DIMATTIA, TONY CHOUFANI) 44% Fragment (Joseph Day) Deserted (Chirstopher Short)

33% 23%

BEST MORNING RADIO SHOW

PENGUIN 98.3 THE MORNING CHILL 37% Z107.5 Foz in the Morning 102.7 Bob and Sheri in the Morning

34% 29%

BEST MOVIE THEATER

48% 46% Stone Theaters at The Pointe 14 AMC CLASSIC Wilmington 16 Cinemas 6% BEST MUSICIAN — FEMALE 44% REBEKAH TODD 33% Bibis Ellison 23% Jenny Pearson

REGAL CINEMAS MAYFAIRE

BEST MUSICIAN — MALE

TRAVIS SHALLOW Randy McQuay David Dixon Jason Jackson

BEST MUSEUM

CAMERON ART MUSUEM

Cape Fear Museum Children’s Museum of Wilmington

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

SUSIE LINQUIST PHOTOGRAPHY Matthew Ray Photography Chris Brehmer Photography

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY

FOZ (Z107.5)

Eric Miller (Penguin 98.3) Beau Gunn (Penguin 98.3)

BEST RADIO STATION

98.3 THE PENGUIN Z107.5 91.3 WHQR

BEST RECORD STORE

GRAVITY RECORDS

Yellow Dog Discs Angie’s Hair and Records

BEST TATTOO PARLOR

ARTFUEL INC.

Hardwire Glenn’s Tattoos

BEST THEATRE COMPANY

THALIAN ASSOCIATION

Opera House Theatre Company Panache Theatrical Productions

BEST KIDS THEATRE CO.

THALIAN ASSOCIATION CHILDREN’S THEATRE (TACT) TheatreNOW Snow Productions

32% 31% 20% 17%

BEST THEATRE VENUE

44% 33% 23%

BEST TOUR OF ILM

THALIAN HALL Wilson Center TheatreNOW

45% 33% 22% 49% 35% 16% 35% 34% 31% 48% 34% 18% 56% 33% 11% 35% 28% 27% 10%

49% Bourbon St. 28% Jerry Allen’s Sports Bar & Grill at Katy’S 23%

Fun Home (Panache)

14%

BEST PRODUCTION — STRAIGHT PLAY

TWELFTH NIGHT (ALCHEMICAL THEATRE CO.) 35% In Sanity (Chase Harrison) The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (Panache)

BEST NEWSCAST

WECT

WWAY Spectrum News

BEST NEWSCASTER

FRANCES WELLER (WECT) Randy Aldridge (WWAY) Jon Evans (WECT)

BEST OPEN MIC

DEAD CROW COMEDY CLUB Goat and Compass Bottega Art and Wine

BEST OUTDOOR SPORTS/REC FACILITY

CAPT’N BILLS BACKYARD GRILL Dig and Dive Ogden Skatepark

PLACE TO BUY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

FINKELSTEIN’S Music Loft Guitar Pickers

33% 32% 67% 29% 4% 40% 30% 30% 53% 33% 14% 50% 29% 21% 56% 30% 14%

BEST POOL HALL

BLUE POST BILLIARDS

Orton’s Billiards and Pool Room Breaktime Billiards

4 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

42% 31% 27%

44% 29% 27% 48% 32% 20% 59% 31% 10%

BEST WRITER

GWENYFAR ROHLER Wiley Cash John Wolfe

BEST WRITE-IN CATEGORY MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL — DYNAMIC MARTIAL ARTS

Waxing Salon — Carter Kayte Marketing Firm — KC Creative

56% 33% 11%

54% 33% 13% 39% 34% 27% 41% 33% 26%

TRICIA MILLLER — ORIENTAL THERAPIES 36% Leon McKay — Leon McKay Healing Arts 34% Gretchen Rivas — Infinity Acupuncture 30%

Priscilla McCall’s Sweet Vibrations

BEST ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

THE HEMP FARMACY

Leon McKay Healing Arts Inifinity Acupuncture

BEST ANTIQUE SHOP

THE IVY COTTAGE

Flea Body’s Cape Fear Antique Center

JS & J Auto Honda Acura Services MobileTech

BEST BOOKSTORE

OLD BOOKS ON FRONT ST. Two Sisters Bookery Pomegranate Books

BEST CAR WASH

CRUISERS CAR WASH & DETAIL CENTER

Splash-n-Dash Car Wash Mr. Sudsy Car Wash & Detail

BEST CONSIGNMENT — HOME GOODS/DECOR

33% 20%

BEST ACUPUNCTURIST

ADAM AND EVE

BLACK’S TIRE AND AUTO

47%

GOODS AND SERVICES

BEST ADULT STORE

BEST AUTO MECHANIC

BEST CONSIGNMENT — CLOTHES

Jax 5th Ave Banks Channel

WhastOnWilmington.com WilmingtonToday.com

Belle Meade Apartment Homes Hawthorne Commons

64% 26% 10%

51% 28% 21%

PORTCITYDAILY.COM

SOUTH FRONT APARTMENTS

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

39% 34% 27%

BEST WEBSITE

BEST APARTMENT COMPLEX

45% 36% 19%

Ghost Tour of ILM Haunted Pub Crawl

WILMINGTON WATER TOURS

BEST PRODUCTION — MUSICAL BEST TRIVIA NIGHT MAMMA MIA! (OPERA HOUSE THEATRE CO.) 64% 50% HELL’S KITCHEN Cannibal! The Musical (Pineapple-Shaped Lamps)22% 32% 18%

41% 39% 20%

50% 28% 22% 53% 32% 15% 68% 19% 12%

48% 29% 23% 57% 22% 21% 54% 25% 21% 49% 32% 19%

BACK IN MOTION CHIROPRACTIC 46% Sito Chiropractic Graybar Chiropractic & Rehab

FAIRY CIRCLE

Plato’s Closet Clothes Mentor

THE IVY COTTAGE Home Again Uptown Market

BEST CONTRACTOR

PAUL DAVIS RESTORATION OF THE CAROLINA COAST LS Smith Jim Jacquot Construction

BEST DENTIST

BOZART FAMILY DENISTRY

Salling and Tate General Dentistry Edgerton and Glenn

28% 26% 45% 28% 27%

Dr. Gregory Woodfill (Wilmington Health) Dr. Craig Scibal (Swell Vision Center)

BEST ESTHETICIAN

AMY WILLIAMS (GLO MED SPA) Jenny Walker (Head to Toe) Marcella Hardy (Tanglez)

BEST FARMERS MARKET

RIVERFRONT FARMERS MARKET

Poplar Grove Farmers Market Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market

46% 28% 26% 54% 17% 19% 45% 33% 22% 35% 34% 31% 54% 27% 19%

BEST FURNITURE COMPANY

CUSTOM HOME FURNITURE GALLERIES 45% 34% Ashley Furniture HomeStore 21% Rooms to Go Furniture Store

BEST FIRST-DATE SPOT

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH Indochine Little Dipper

BEST FLORIST

JULIA’S FLORIST

Fiore Fine Flowers Sweet Nectar’s Florist

BEST GARDEN STORE

TRANSPLANTED GARDEN The Plant Place Farmers Supply Co.

BEST GIFT SHOP

BLUE MOON GIFT SHOPS Dragonflies Modern Legend

BEAU RIVAGE GOLF & RESORT

Wilmington Municipal Golf Course Magnolia Greens Golf Course

BEST GOURMET STORE

PINE VALLEY MARKET

Temptatons Gourmet Cafe Italian Gourmet Market

39% 31% 30% 68% 19% 13% 38% 36% 26% 61% 26% 13%

35% 34% 31% 59% 29% 20%

BEST GROCERY STORE

HARRIS TEETER Trader Joe’s Publix

44% 34% 22%

BEST GYM

02 FITNESS

Planet Fitness Anytime Fitness

BEST HAIR SALON

ROCKIN’ ROLLER SALON Bangz Tanglez

BEST HAIR STYLIST

BLYTHE LUNDY (ROCKIN’ ROLLER SALON)

45% 39% 16% 42% 30% 28% 63%

Kelly Woodell (Wisp Salon) 20% Amber Picciola (Hairlinz Design Group) 17%

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE 53% 30% 17%

BEST DOCTOR

DR. PAMELA TAYLOR (WILMINGTON HEALTH)

BEST GOLF COURSE

TIDAL CREEK CO-OP

Lovey’s Natural Foods and Cafe Whole Foods

BEST HOTEL

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON WILMINGTON RIVERFRONT

Blockade Runner Beach Resort Hotel Ballast

BEST JEWELER

PERRY’S EMPORIUM REEDS Jewelers Cape Fear Jewelers

BEST KIDS’ CLOTHING STORE

ONCE UPON A CHILD

Peanut Butter & Jelly Baby Store Memories of a Child

40% 31% 29% 43% 35% 22% 51% 31% 18% 44% 30% 26%

BEST KIDS’ CAMP

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH SURF CAMP 57% No Sleeves Magic Camp Power Camp

BEST KIDS’ AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM

POWER OF PLAY

Mustard Seed Youth Center Cape Fear Isshin — Ryu Karate and After-school

BEST LAW FIRM

DAVID AND ASSOCIATES Cape Fear Family Law Overholt Law Firm

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

MARY BETH REDMAN (WILLOW RETREAT SPA)

Cameron Martin (Shine On Massage Therapy) Stephanie Arnold (Relax!)

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING

BLOKE.

Men’s Warehouse Gentlemen’s Corner

BEST MOVING COMPANY

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

Few Moves Moving Company Miracle Movers

25% 18% 45% 34% 21% 41% 38% 21% 42% 38% 20% 43% 35% 22% 58% 22% 20%

BEST MORTGAGE COMPANY

ALPHA MORTGAGE Guaranteed Rate Movement Mortgage

51% 25% 24%

BEST NAIL SALON

LUXE NAILS Posh Nails Wisp Salon

BEST NEW CAR DEALERSHIP

HENDRICK TOYOTA

Jeff Gordon Chevrolet Parkway Volvo

BEST NEW COMPANY

GROOMING BY JESS H2 Turbo Car Wash Sport City

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT

RIVERLIGHTS

River Bluffs Anchors Bend

49% 37% 14% 43% 33% 24% 46% 36% 18% 54% 24% 22%

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

LAMAINE WILLIAMS (TRAIN WITH LAMAINE) 43% Amy McCauley (A Body Empowered) Josh Venegas (Wilmington Weightlifting Club)

BEST PILATES STUDIO

CLUB PILATES

A Body Empowered InJoy Movement

BEST PET BOARDING

PET PARADISE

College Road Animal Hospital Atlantic Animal Hospital and Pet Care Resort

37% 20% 45% 33% 22% 45% 34% 22%

BEST PET GROOMING

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

ISLAND PASSAGE Edge of Urge Hallelu

BEST YOGA STUDIO

WILMINGTON YOGA Rebel Yoga Terra Sol Sanctuary

BEST PET SUPPLY STORE

AUNT KERRY’S PET STOP

Unleashed, the Dog and Cat Store PetSmart

BEST PRINT SHOP

DOCK ST. PRINTING Copycat Print Shop PrintWorks

35% 33% 32% 48% 27% 15%

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

54% Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage 30% 16% Regina Drury Real Estate Group BEST ROOFING COMPANY ATLANTIC ROOFING COMPANY 34% 33% Flores and Foley 23% D&A Roofing

INTRACOASTAL REALTY

BEST SHOE STORE

SOUL SHOETIQUE

Cape Fear Footwear Monkee’s of Wilmington

BEST SHOPPING PLAZA

MAYFAIRE TOWN CENTER Lumina Station Hanover Center

45% 30% 25% 78% 12% 10%

BEST SPA

HEAD TO TOE DAY SPA & SALON 46% 36% Ki Spa Relax! Massage Therapy and Skin Care 19%

BEST SURF SHOP

SWEETWATER SURF SHOP Surf City Surf Shop Hot Wax Surf Shop

BEST TANNING SALON

SUN TAN CITY Tanglez Salon Saule Tanning

BEST TECH COMPANY

COMPUTER WARRIORS nCino tekMountain

BEST USED CAR DEALERSHIP

AUTO WHOLESALE

Jeff Gordon Chevrolet Seasell Auto

43% 29% 28% 47% 34% 19% 33% 31% 20% 47% 35% 18%

BEST VETERINARIAN

PAWS & CLAWS ANIMAL HOSPITAL 28% College Road Animal Hospital A Country Veterinary Clinic Wilmington Animal Healthcare

BEST WEDDING VENUE

AIRLIE GARDENS

Brooklyn Arts Center Wrightsville Manor

26% 25% 21% 46% 29% 25%

40% 31% 29%

BEST APPETIZERS

FRONT ST. BREWERY Circa 1922 Dram + Morsel

BEST ATMOSPHERE

INDOCHINE RESTAURANT Smoke on the Water Dram + Morsel

BEST BAGEL

BEACH BAGELS

Empire Deli & Bagel Round Bagels and Donuts

BEST BAKERY

APPLE ANNIE’S BAKE SHOP Sweet n Savory Cafe One Belle Bakery

43% 33% 24% 53% 35% 12% 60% 28% 12% 48% 30% 22%

JACKSON’S BIG OAK BARBECUE 40% 37% Mission BBQ 23% Moe’s Original Bar B Que 62% 20% 18%

BEST BARTENDER

TRISTA NICOSIA (GOAT AND COMPASS) 35% Brandy Tomcany (Slainte) Dianna Semansky (Axes and Allies)

BEST BEER LIST

CAPE FEAR WINE AND BEER Pour Taproom Hey Beer!

BEST LOCAL BEER

33% 32% 40% 38% 22%

TROPICAL LIGHTNING (WILMINGTON

54%

Kolsch (Waterline Brewing Co.) Maker of Wings (Flying Machine Brewing Co.)

32% 14%

BREWING COMPANY)

BEST BISCUIT

DIXIE GRILL

43% Rise Southern Biscuits and Righteous Chicken 31% Rolled & Baked 26% BEST BOTTLE SHOP 44% FERMENTAL BEER & WINE 31% Hey! Beer Bottle Shop 25% Palate Bottle Shop and Reserve BEST BREAKFAST

DIXIE GRILL

Cast Iron Kitchen Jimbo’s Breakfast & Lunch

J. MICHAEL’S PHILLY DELI Port City Cheesesteak Green Line Pizza and Steaks

38% 36% 26%

BEST BREWERY

KEITH RHODES (CATCH MODERN SEAFOOD) 42% 34% Sam Cahoon (Savorez) Dean Neff (formerly of Pinpoint)

Szechuan 132 Uncle Lim’s Kitchen

BEST COFFEE SHOP

BITTY AND BEAU’S COFFEE Port City Java Bespoke Coffee & Dry Goods

BEST DELI

A TASTE OF ITALY

S&L Deli NY Style Deli Detour Deli

BEST DESSERTS

APPLE ANNIE’S BAKE SHOP Sweet n Savory Cafe Circa 1922

BEST DINER

THE BASICS

Boca Bay Restaurant Hops Supply Company

BEST BUFFET

CASEY’S BUFFET & BARBECUE Boca Bay Restaurant Golden Corral Buffet and Grill

BEST BURGER

PT’S OLDE FASHIONED GRILLE Winnie’s Tavern Fork ‘N’ Cork

BEST BURRITO

FLAMING AMY’S BURRITO BARN K-38 Baja Grill El Cerro Grande

BEST CATERING SERVICE

MIDDLE OF THE ISLAND Pine Valley Market Thyme Savor Milner’s Cafe & Catering

BEST CHAIN RESTAURANT

PANERA BREAD Bonefish Grill Olive Garden

36% 33% 31% 52% 39% 9%

COPPER PENNY

Crust Kitchen and Cocktails Tropical Smoothie

BEST MEDITERRANEAN

PEÑO MEDITERRANEAN GRILL The Greeks Olympia Restaurant

53% 29% 18%

BEST MIXOLOGIST

50% 31% 19%

BEST NEW BAR

55% 26% 19%

BEST NEW BREWERY

47% 36% 18%

LUKE CARNEVALE (MANNA) Abbie Ovbey (Rumcow) Joel Finsel (Astral Cocktails)

Edward Teach Brewery Mad Mole Brewing

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

BENNY’S BIG TIME PIZZERIA Crust Kitchen and Cocktails Rumcow

BEST OUTSIDE DINING

BEST OYSTERS

56% 31% 13%

BEST PIZZA

58% 28% 14%

BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL

40% 33% 27%

BEST RIBS

Barbary Coast Lula’s Pub

BEST DONUT

BRITTS DONUT SHOP Wake N Bake Donuts Duck Donuts

BEST FAST FOOD

CHICK-FIL-A Co0k Out Taco Bell

BEST FINE DINING

CAPRICE BISTRO manna PinPoint

BEST FOOD TRUCK

CATCH THE FOOD TRUCK

WilmyWoodie Wood Fired Pizza CheeseSmith Food Truck

BEST FRENCH

CAPRICE BISTRO

Brasserie du Soleil Our Crepes and More

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

BILL’S FRONT PORCH

Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q Casey’s Buffet and Barbecue

BEST FRIES

PT’S OLDE FASHIONED GRILLE Five Guys Grill CheeseSmith Food Truck

Paul’s Place Charlie Graingers

BEST ICE CREAM

BOOMBALATTI’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM Kilwins Cold Stone Creamery

BEST INDIAN

TANDOORI BITES Nawab

41% 33% 26% 56% 29% 15%

BEST JAPANESE

45% 30% 14% 11%

BEST LATE-NIGHT EATS

OSTERIA CICCHETTI A Taste of Italy Roko Italian Cuisine

HIRO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

41% 32% 27% 39% 33% 28% 37% 34% 29%

Front Street Brewery Jimbo’s Breakfast & Lunch

BEST LATIN AMERICAN/MEXICAN

K-38 BAJA GRILL

El Cerro Grande Taqueria Los Portales

Bluewater Waterfront Grill Dockside Restaurant and Bar

DOCK ST. OYSTER BAR

Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar Wrightsville Beach Brewery

Pizzetta’s Pizzeria Your Pie

INDOCHINE

Copper Penny PinPoint

MISSION BBQ

Bone & Bean BBQ Moe’s Original Bar B Que

BEST SALADS

CHOPT CREATIVE SALAD Brasserie du Soleil Rucker John’s

BEST SANDWICH /SUB SHOP

SOUTH COLLEGE ROAD DELI Crust Kitchen and Cocktails Detour Deli

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD Catch Modern Seafood Fish Bites

52% 30% 18%

BEST SERVER

74% 26% 41% 38% 21% 43%

53% 27% 20% 46% 30% 24%

34% 28% 48% 32% 20% 36% 33% 31% 40% 39% 21% 44% 35% 21%

SLICE OF LIFE

BEST SEAFOOD MARKET

29% Genki Sushi Okami Japanese Hibachi Steak House & Sushi 28%

SLICE OF LIFE

INDOCHINE

66% 24% 10%

50% 37% 13%

47% 34% 19%

FLYING MACHINE BREWING CO. 47%

48% 28% 24%

DUCK & DIVE

40% 34% 26%

35% 28%

Axes and Allies Tails Piano Bar

BEST DIVE BAR

Jimbo’s Breakfast & Lunch College Diner

72% 18% 10%

FLYING MACHINE BREWING CO. 37%

48% 38% 14%

BEST ITALIAN

42% 34% 24%

24%

BEST LUNCH

DIXIE GRILL

WILMINGTON BREWING COMPANY 37% BEST HOT DOG 33% Waterline Brewing Company TROLLY STOP 30% Wrightsville Beach Brewery

BEST BRUNCH

62% 24% 14%

BEST CHEF

DOUBLE HAPPINESS

BEST BARBECUE

Blue Post Cape Fear Wine and Beer

BEST CHEESESTEAK

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT

FOOD AND DRINK

VON BARKEE’S DOG SPA & BAKERY 46% BEST BAR OVERALL Grooming By Jess 35% SATELLITE BAR AND LOUNGE Hillary Spaziano (College Road and CB Animal Hospital) 19%

41% 33% 26%

MOTT’S CHANNEL SEAFOOD Cape Fear Coast Seafood Co. Seaview Crab Co.

BRANDON ANGELILLI (COPPER PENNY)

Hunter Tiblier (Ceviches) Letitia Bass (Crust)

BEST SOUL FOOD

CASEY’S BUFFET AND BARBECUE Cast Iron Kitchen Jackson’s Big Oak Barbecue

46% 38% 16% 40% 34% 26% 43% 29% 28% 53% 24% 23% 55% 23% 22% 38% 33% 29% 48% 31% 21% 40% 39% 21%

BEST SOUP

SWEET N SAVORY CAFE Pine Valley Market Michael’s Seafood

BEST SPORTS BAR

HELL’S KITCHEN

Carolina Ale House Buffalo Wild Wings

BEST STEAK

PORT CITY CHOP HOUSE

Ruth’s Chris Steak House True Blue Butcher and Table

39% 36% 25% 39% 36% 25% 43% 30% 27%

BEST SUSHI

YOSAKE DOWNTOWN SUSHI LOUNGE 36% Nikki’s Gourmet & Sushi Bar Bento Box

BEST TACOS

K-38 BAJA GRILL

Islands Fresh Mex Grill Beer Barrio

BEST THAI

INDOCHINE

Southern Thai Big Thai

BEST VEGAN

SEALEVEL CITY GOURMET

Epic Food Co. Lovey’s Natural Foods & Cafe

BEST VEGETARIAN

EPIC FOOD CO.

Lovey’s Natural Foods & Cafe Sealevel City Gourmet

BEST WAITSTAFF

COPPER PENNY

PT’s Olde Fashioned Grille The Basics

BEST WINE LIST

THE FORTUNATE GLASS Fermental The Second Glass

BEST WINGS

COPPER PENNY

Buffalo Wild Wings Wild Wing Cafe

33% 31% 47% 27% 26% 71% 16% 13% 38% 33% 29% 36% 34% 30% 43% 38% 20% 43% 33% 24% 48% 26% 25%

ORGANIZATIONS & COMMUNITY BEST ACTIVIST GROUP

CAPE FEAR RIVER WATCH

Seeds of Healing Women Organizing for Wilmington

BEST ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP

CAPE FEAR RIVER WATCH Surfrider Foundation NC Coastal Federation

BEST FESTIVAL

AZALEA FESTIVAL

Lighthouse Beer and Wine Festival Riverfest

BEST HUMANITARIAN

JOCK BRANDIS

Le Shonda Wallace Sheila Lewis

BEST NONPROFIT

NOURISH NC

DREAMS of Wilmington Pleasure Island Turtle Project

53% 33% 14% 36% 33% 31% 54% 26% 20% 51% 26% 33% 40% 39% 21%

BEST TEACHERS

BRENT HOLLAND (LANEY HIGH SCHOOL) 38% Kelly Parker (Murrayville Elementary) 32% Mandy Humphrey (Roland Grise Middle School) 30%

DID YOU BID ON A SILENT AUCTION ITEM AT BESTIVAL? WE WILL ANNOUNCE ALL WINNERS ON OUR SOCIAL STORIES ON FB AND IG THIS WEEK! FOLLOW US @ENCOREPUB encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 5

BEST OF 2019

SNAPSHOTS FROM BESTIVAL 2019

encore’s inaugural event celebrated dance, comedy, music, arts, beer, 200 Best Of winners and community

Waterline Brewing Company was packed on Saturday for Bestival 2019, celebrating encore’s Best Of and the community at large! Left to right, clockwise from the top: Cruisers’ Felix Emeka picks up their win for Best Car Wash; David Dixon was one of six bands who played as crowds flowed in and out of Waterline Brewing Company; Nourish NC’s Executive Director Steve McCrossan proudly smiles with their award for Best Nonprofit; the crowd is all eyes when the DREAMS students performed; Charlie, the Picasso of parrots, stole the hearts of attendees all day long with masterful paintings to benefit the Cape Fear Parrot Sanctuary; Mossy Fox Studio was one of 40 vendors set up at the Bestival arts and crafts market along Surry Street.

Photos from Chris Brehmer Photography and Tom Dorgan

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WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS family to us. Honey Head is more than just a production company; it’s a tribe. e: Why was it important to established Honey Head as a female-led company in the film industry when you formed in 2016?

Honey Head Films is a small, allfemale-led production team run by creative producer Kristi Ray and creative media director Erika Edwards. Founded on community, Ray and Edwards wear multiple hats to create compelling visual content—from narrative films to music videos, documentaries to commercials.

Honey Head Films is being recognized as Best Filmmaker in 2019, taking in 51% of the votes from encore readers.

We interviewed the team to get an idea of what they’re currently working on and how Honey Head came to be. encore (e): Tell us about your team and who makes up Honey Head.

Kristi Ray (KR): The Honey Heads produce, cast, write, direct, shoot and edit— often collaborating with fellow creatives in the industry along the way. This resourceful outlook, coupled with a counter-culture attitude and daring sense of initiative, is what sets Honey Head apart.

We specialize in magical connections with tangible results, from concept to post.

Whether you’re a client, an actor, a crew member, a viewer … you’re like

Erika Edwards (EE): We founded Honey Head Films after realizing there was a demand in our community for a fresh approach to independent film and media production. Bringing women to the forefront on both sides of the camera naturally became our goal because we love telling femalecentric stories! The true grit of the South permeates much of the narrative work we do and is often a basis of inspiration.

KR: By establishing ourselves as a team of women on a mission to empower a younger generation of female cinematographers, directors, writers, gaffers and editors, we feel a dedication to Wilmington that goes beyond filmmaking. It is a movement toward narrowing the gender gap in creative media.

That being said, our approach to production remains extremely inclusive. Anyone is welcome in the Honey Hive! e: What does a Best Of readers’ choice award mean to your team and HHF? EE: Our company was founded on community. We are passionate about connecting independent filmmakers and collaborating with fellow creatives in what can seem like a daunting, exclusive industry. We have experienced nothing but genuine support and love from Wilmington, which has opened unconventional doors and paved the way for a magical future. It proves that Honey Head is a production company rooted in—and made up of—community. As our

BEST BURGER, BEST FRIES

PT’S OLDE-FASHIONED GRILLE It is damn near impossible to beat PT’s Olde-Fashioned Grille at their burger and fries game. For roughly a dozen years the local franchise has taken encore’s readers’ choice award for fresh and crispy French fries, and they are always contenders for Best Burger. PT’s has taken home the “e” for both in 2019.

“As always it’s a privilege to be named ‘best,’” owner Jim Biermann says. “Especially when there are other great restaurants in Wilmington serving similar food—we never take it for granted.

Wilmington has been great to PT’s—

thanks, encore readers!”

Biermann, who owns the PT’s on Carolina Beach Road, says one of the best parts about operating one of these local staples is the simplicity of their menu. It’s the same simplicity which he thinks is the selling point for a lot of customers as well. “I don’t see any additions in the near future,” he notes in spite of occasional hype around new food trends in the burger industry, like the Impossible Burger—the plant-based meatless burger that was being served around town until a shortage of the product hit when national chain Burger King started

BEST FILMMAKER

HONEY HEAD FILMS sphere of influence continues to grow, an KR: We are premiering our two latest encore Best Of Award rightfully celebrates music videos at Brooklyn Arts Center on the many people in our community and be- July 12 at Rhythm of the River—a tickyond who have helped us get this far. eted event with live music from Striking e: How have you grown since estab- Copper, Jake Newman and Travis Shallow [Ed. note: Striking Copper was a runlishing yourselves? nerup in encore’s Best Band 2019 catKR: Honey Head has evolved from spe- egory and Travis Shallow won Best Male cializing primarily in low-budget shorts to Musician 2019]. an integrated creative production company e: What are other plans for 2019? capable of taking on feature-level projects from start to finish. We are currently workKR: We have been collaborating with ing with three different writer/directors to several filmmakers from out of state to develop their films over the course of the create compelling proof-of-concept trailnext year. ers for feature films in order to secure Projects now take us beyond the Port funding. Honey Head is excited to be City—with clients and collaborators na- partnering with a diverse creative teams tionwide. At a grassroots level, we still feel to bring these narrative movies to life rooted in the Wilmington community and from the ground up. enjoy our relationships with fellow production companies, including Lighthouse Films and Wallaby Media. Our growth over the past three years has gotten us to the point where we currently open to taking on new clients (feel free to get in touch)!

It is continuously inspiring to be surrounded by so many visionaries paving a way for themselves and their stories.

These passion projects are the driving force of the independent film community, and it’s an honor we have been trusted to e: What current works can folks see help bring so many to life. from Honey Head?

We also have a feature of our own in EE: We love sharing our work and hear- the works, based off a high-performing ing inspiration for a new project! All of our Honey Head short film shot in 2017. Can public projects— films, music videos, com- you guess which one? mercials, docs—are available on our Vimeo page: www.vimeo.com/honeyheadfilms

—Shannon Gentry

e: Are there any upcoming events we should note to readers?

flipping them on their menus, too.

“I’ve never tried The Impossible Burger but have certainly heard about it,” Biermann says. “I’ve never entertained putting it on the menu because its cost would require us to price it out of our normal price range. We do have garden burgers and black bean burgers that are similar in concept to the Impossible.”

secret’s in the seasoning—of which can be found and purchased by the bottle. “I think people like the fries because they are fresh, mashed out daily before each shift,” Biermann adds. “We use an Idaho potato, which has great flavor. And the seasoning helps!”

PT’s can be found at five other locations throughout Wilmington, including The perfect burger is up to each cus- 17th Street, Fountain Dr., Porter’s Neck, tomer, according to Biermann, whose per- Military Cutoff and Monkey Junction. sonal favorite is a medium-rare PT Burger PT’s Olde-Fashioned Grille won Best with mustard, ketchup and cheese. As Burger by culling 41% of votes and 66% well there always are extra toppings to for Best Fries. choose from to add layers of flavor, includ —Shannon Gentry ing mushrooms, chili, slaw, grilled onions, bacon and jalapenos. When it comes to those award-winning fries, however, the encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 7

WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS workout,” he tells encore. “I’ve always done push ups, pull ups, sit ups, etc. I got my first weight set before I was 9. Fitness was the gift that God gave me; it’s my hobby and my passion.”

Train with Lamaine has been on our encore readers’ poll for 10 years now.

Why? Well, have you seen the guns on Lamaine Williams? When he says he is blessed to make a career out of exercising, we believe him.

“I don’t remember the time I didn’t

While he practices what he preaches, his focus to keep Wilmington in shape really allows him to stretch his talents. He oversees training programs, individually assessed, for 28 people, who each work out with him one to three times a week. “Figuring out the individual’s personality is key to being a good personal trainer,” Williams says. “I have to know their goals, abilities and personality.”

Williams mostly steers clear of trends, too. He lets research and testing plans physically to guide him through weight training, yoga flexibility, gymnastics strength and mobility training. “Mixing yoga flexibility and gymnastics strength, mobility

BEST JEWELER

PERRY’S EMPORIUM As if Perry’s Emporium couldn’t get any better for Wilmington shoppers, their new renovation will lead to a better experience to find the best in diamonds, rubies and emeralds (oh, my!)! With it will come a new improved repair shop, plus a new design and layout—set to be unveiled in August.

That means all brides and grooms can rest assured Perry’s top-notch offerings in engagement rings and wedding bands will still be available and in pristine condition.

Plus, Perry’s is staying on top of the latest trends and hottest styles. According to Canady, they’re getting more requests to include smaller accent stones on rings.

“However, we are still open at our temporary location across the parking lot from our store [2520 Independence Boulevard, Suite 100]!” advertising and marketing manager Morgan Canady tells encore.

“A little something extra than the traditional solitaire-style ring,” she says. “We’ve also seen that yellow gold is making a comeback, and we’ve been doing lots in rose gold lately as well. No matter what the latest trends are, we always have some-

“It is kind of like ‘The Muppet Show’ around here,” Gwenyfar Rohler observes of Old Books on Front Street, encore readers’ choice for Best Bookstore, “a little crazy, well-intentioned, very creative and completely entertaining.”

at least what they think they’re looking for. “‘It’s blue. About this big. It was on my girlfriend’s coffee table. I don’t know the title or the author…’” Rohler describes of some of the requests she gets.

Rohler (2019’s Best Local Writer) is surprisingly stuck when it comes to finding words to describe the local support the “e” awards represent to small businesses.

“We try so hard to provide something special and to be of value to the community that to receive this recognition is truly tear inducing,” she offers.

Google has nothing when it comes to the passion and knowledge of literature found in Old Books, where about once a week they help a would-be customers find a variation of what they’re looking for …

Nonetheless, Old Books does have an array of staff picks they hope shoppers take note of while perusing the aisles. Plus, they carry a plethora of local authors.

“We have a lot of great local history—one of my passions,” Rohler says. “‘Cape Fear Rising’ [about the 1898 race riots] just had its 25th anniversary rerelease. It’s a book I think would answer a lot of questions both for people who have lived here a long time and who are new to the area. ‘Good Omens’ is my favorite book—please, read it before you watch the show. Shadwell is completely [not reproducible] on screen.”

8 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

TRAIN WITH LAMAINE and flexibility have really been beneficial to me and my team,” he tells.

Each year he and one of his celebrity students, Frances Weller from WECT news (2019’s Best Local Newscaster and Best Local Newscast), host a squat challenge. Last year they had an entire local elementary school onboard to see how many squats they could do in one day. “It is a fun way of getting everybody involved in exercise,” he tells. He will announce his next challenge on his socials, Train With Lamaine on Facebook.

“Frances [and I] are working on something really big,” he promises. “You don’t thing for everyone!”

want to miss the next challenge.”

Yet, the real key to living healthy is consistency. One must commit and see through the challenges. “If you consistently exercise, if you consistently try to eat good, you will see results,” Williams promises. “This means you don’t have to be a fitness guru or a gym rat to have good health. You just need to consistently put forth effort to be healthy.”

Lamaine Williams won the Best Personal Trainer category by 43%.

—Shea Carver

the holidays and “Rainy Day Diamond Giveaway” allows folks an opportunity to get jewelry, including engagement rings, free. While that’s always a good buy for any customer, Perry’s also makes sure their philanthropic work throughout Wilmington is as strong as their jewelry game.

Because of undergoing a whole new store plan, they’re hosting a “Remodeling Sales Event” and offering 50 percent off hundreds of items; the sale will continue through the remodel. Though they aren’t pulling in new inventory during this time, the autumn season will see them restock“We pride ourselves on our commuing the shelves full force. nity involvement,” Canady says. “Alan “We offer an exclusive ‘Trade Up’ policy believes it’s our duty to give back to the that makes buying diamonds from Perry’s community that supports us. Some of the even more appealing,” Canady adds. “We organizations that we support are the also recently incorporated new 3D printers/ Cape Fear Literary Council, First Fruit scanners to improve our custom design Ministries, Operation Pretty Things, and services. Last but not least, we’ve started the American Heart Association, just to a VIP Facebook group where you can shop name a few!” huge discounts directly from Facebook.”

Perry’s Emporium won the Best JewTheir annual “Let it Snow” event near eler category by 51%.

—Shea Carver

BEST BOOKSTORE

OLD BOOKS ON FRONT STREET While Old Books is known for its two miles of shelved books, in recent years Rohler and her staff also have been adjusting to the addition of The Literary Loft (just above the bookstore), plus hosting a weekly Literary History Walking Tour.

Rohler recently opened her childhood home on Market Street as the Literary Bed and Breakfast, carrying on her love for books. Even with a staff of seven, she admits it’s a lot to manage.

love of historic renovation.

“I hope maybe next year to get The Ender’s Game Room open in the Literary B&B (current rooms: Maya Angelou, Tom Robbins and Zelda Fitzgerald). We are trying to finish building and decorating the NC Poet Laureate’s Garden, too, but for now I’m trying to figure out a day-to-day groove to provide a special, valuable and memorable experience to our community.”

Old Books on Front Street won the Best “Rachel, Joel, Diana, Anthony, Jay and Mel are an assortment of wonder,” she Bookstore category by 54%. praises. They allow her to continue her —Shannon Gentry

Left to right, clockwise from the top: Volunteers Maggie and Alexis help folks with beer tickets at Bestival 2019; Samantha Ray Mifsud sang a tune from the hit local production of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mamma Mia!â&#x20AC;&#x2122;; electronic hip-hop band New Atmosphere helped open the Bestival stage for the day with singer Maurice Holmes; Indochine had to bring half the restaurant to carry their four awards; Rebekah Todd plays her sultry tunes and is all smiles after winning Best Female Musician; and Lamaine Williams has no trouble lifting another Bestie for Best Personal Trainer. Photos from Chris Brehmer Photography and Tom Dorgan

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WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS

Intracoastal Realty won the Best Real Estate category by 54%. We interviewed Lake Slacum, vice president and marketing executive, about trends within the ILM market and what to expect from the company in 2019. encore: Tell me about the current market trends in ILM? Hottest homes on market, good selling and buying times, what you’re seeing helps a home sell, anything and everything…

Lake Slacum (LS): The Wilmington market continues to be scorching hot.

We use calculations to arrive at something called an “absorption rate,” which determines the level of supply and demand in particular price ranges. An absorption rate of 5-6 months is considered a “normal” market; more than 6 months is a “buyer’s” market with a lot of inven-

Wilmington has an array of museums, from historic (Bellamy Mansion) to fun (Children’s Museum of Wilmington) to wacky (Museum of the Bizarre). But the one that stands supreme on encore’s readers’ poll is the Cameron Art Museum.

Located on 17th Street Ext, the museum welcomes all to explore its current exhibits. “Minnie Clyde Annie Vollis” celebrates NC artists who impacted our artistic output. Each was inspired by their dreams (Minnie Evans, Vollis Simpson), religious beliefs (Annie Hooper), or the natural world (Clyde Jones). The visionaries were considered outsiders in the world of art, going against the grain and mainstream to churn out inspirational paintings, sculptures and the like.

Also on exhibit are paintings from Wilmingtonian Clyde Howell in “From Sketch to Canvas.” The pop-up exhibit lands just in time for Howell’s 104th birthday and will continue through the summer of 2019.

On display through September is teamLab’s “A Time When Art is Everywhere.” It’s an interactive, hands-on ex-

tory from which to choose; and less than 5 months is a “seller’s” market with high buyer demand and low inventory. We are firmly in the latter category for all price segments up through $700,000 in New Hanover County. We have “normal” market conditions in the $700,000 - $900,000 range. A lot of movement has taken place with the luxury $1,000,000 segment; however, it remains a buyer’s market with more supply than demand right now. Still, luxury properties are selling at a very healthy pace. The bottom line is that it is a great time to sell. Buyers are out there, but they do not have a lot of inventory from which to choose. e: What keeps Intracoastal on top of its game and in tune with ILM buyers and sellers?

We are a full-service company that invests heavily in marketing, technology, and training for our agents. Being an independent firm—and not a “big box” franchise— allows us to make nimble decisions that positively affect our agents and our clients.

We scour the globe for cutting-edge products and services that will make our agents more efficient and productive. e: Give our readers some numbers: how many sales the company made last year, how many clients you represented, how many agents, current interest rates, average home price, and any

hibit, allowing folks to create their own sea creatures and scan them into the ocean.

Visitors will watch them come to life on the walls of CAM in this fun digital format.

Adjacent to teamLab’s exhibit is Master printmaker Utagawa Hiroshige’s “FiftyThree Stations of the Tōkaidō.” The LED lit panels, created by Gene Felice’s 3D Animation class at UNCW, celebrate storytelling through 55 prints from Hiroshige’s oban series, “Upright Tōkaidō,” created in 1855.

Though the visual exhibits always provide the main draw to CAM, its cultural programming keeps locals engaged through all arts. Their Concerts@CAM series gets underway this week, Thursday, May 23, and will feature Amanda Hoke and Domonique Launey playing “Landscapes: 20th century masterpieces for flute and piano” ($12-$17) live. Proceeds from ticket sales go back into the community and benefit CAM and Nourish NC (Best Nonprofit 2019; see page 11).

Folks also can embark on weekly exhibition tours, Wednesdays, 1:30 p.m., to learn about what’s on display at CAM.

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BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY INTRACOASTAL REALTY thing else you think I should know.

Intracoastal Realty once again eclipsed the billion-dollar mark in residential real estate sales last year, and we are on pace to do even better this year. We helped thousands of clients sell and/or buy a home last year. Many of the clients are repeat customers, which is the ultimate compliment about the services we provide. Intracoastal is the market share leader in New Hanover County. We sell all price ranges, as evidenced by our selling a $12,000 parcel of land, a $5 million dollar estate, and everything in between!

Our average sold price last year was almost $100,000 higher than the company with the #2 market share. e: Any predictions about the home market in ILM per future?

The economic experts are predicting steady interest rates over the next year, so the market should remain strong. It also helps that our area is such a desirable place in which to live, work and play.

The vibrant and evolving historic downtown area combined with our wonderful beach communities will make this area an

attractive relocation destination for years to come. And we, at Intracoastal Realty, get to help people realize their dreams.

It’s a great position in which to be! e: Tell me about how Intracoastal gives back to the community at large, via fundraisers, events, etc.

The philanthropic side of Intracoastal Realty is large and widespread locally.

Last year, our company and its agents and staff donated time and money to more than 100 area charities. Our founder/CEO and our president are committed to supporting the causes that our agents and staff champion. Additionally, we have our own Teacher’s Fund—a 501(c)(3)nonprofit—that helps local public and private elementary school teachers buy the supplies and books they so desperately need.

To date, the Teacher’s Fund has awarded over 1,500 grants in excess of $300,000, benefitting more than 180,000 students. Intracoastal Realty’s community contributions are a big part of who we are, and are ingrained in our culture.

—Shea Carver

BEST MUSEUM CAMERON ART MUSEUM Plus, Sunday exhibition tours take place at 1:30 p.m. CAM staff is launching a new Off the Record Tour on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Attendees will get to hear offthe-cuff, irreverent stories about behindthe-scenes scenarios on current exhibits.

Plus, there’s a happy hour in CAM Café beforehand.

The little ones won’t be left out of gaining artistic appreciation either. Families can enjoy Art Explorer on Thursdays at 10 a.m., for open studio time, story time, art and fun with friends; parents must be present.

create (and, face it, that’s exactly what should be happening!), then head over to CAM’s Museum School and sign up for a class. They have adult studio classes in clay, prose and poetry, life drawing, portraiture, and more, plus kids studio classes (um, dragon drawing anyone?) and fun summer camps. They also offer weekend workshops for someone who can’t commit to months of classes.

Currently, they’re offering Japanese calligraphy, urban sketching, paper art, botanical dyeing and print on natural fibers, and more!

On Thursday evenings, CAM Café is open for dinner and will have live music to accompany the colorful dishes that match the colorful walls. Perry Smith will play the 23 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., while dinner is served 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. and wine bottles are half off!

Be sure to check out the CAM’s calendar online to keep up with all events.

Admission to the museum is $5-$8 and yearly memberships begin at $55.

Cameron Art Museum collected 44% of the votes by encore readers in the Best Museum category

If looking at the art inspires the need to

—Shea Carver

WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS WINNER WRITEUPS 2019’s Best Writer Gwenyfar Rohler recently wrapped up her Fact or Fiction series with encore in 2018. “Singing in the Dead of Night” was inspired by one of Wilmington’s most tragic film production stories, when actor Brandon Lee was accidentally shot and killed on set of 1994’s “The Crow.”

“I remember it vividly,” Rohler, barely a teenager at the time, tells. “It was a moment marked on my consciousness at a young age. I also remember many of the film people I knew talked about it in hushed tones and wouldn’t make eye contact if it was brought up around them.

The shadow, the mystery and the unresolved pain around it is intriguing.”

Rohler was originally assigned to write a story about “The Crow” for another publication. However, they wanted something “lighthearted.” “I made it clear I could and would write a piece about it, but Brandon Lee lost his life filming that movie and there was nothing ‘lighthearted’ about it— at all,” she tells.

This year’s Best Nonprofit win goes to Nourish NC, which took 40% of the votes. Last time encore spoke with the Nourish NC crew a few months ago, they were launching their Food Farmacy pilot program. We caught up with Steve McCrossan, Nourish NC’s executive director, to chat about the program’s progress and 2019 Best Of win. encore (e): Tell us how Food Farmacy is going and about how many families have benefitted so far.

Steve McCrossan (SM): The response from our partners at NHMRC’s Nunnelee Pediatrics and the families they serve has been very positive. The Nunnelee Pediatric Clinic is dedicated to serving children with chronic medical conditions and the their team are thrilled to be able to provide assistance to their food insecure patients right inside the office. The kids and their families are blown away by the idea that their doctor would offer them food directly. But that’s the point of the Food Farmacy Program: 1) introduce food insecurity screening into the daily work flow of pediatricians and healthcare professionals; 2) immediately address malnutrition, hunger and child food insecurity (with the box and prescription); and then 3) prevent these issues by connecting children to NNC’s Backpack Program or other resources.

Here is a story from a clinician at Nunnelee shared with us after the family

The unresolved mystery never held anyone responsible, which is one of the most disturbing aspects to Rohler. “When the DA’s office declined to press charges, Brandon’s mother sued the named individuals she held responsible for his death,” Rohler says, a part of the story that appears in “Singing in the Dead of Night.” “Part of the out-of-court settlement stipulated the film had to be finished and released, because her son gave his life for it—and it was not going to end on the cutting room floor.”

Rohler’s research was difficult, with many folks refusing to return phone calls or standing her up altogether. Still, Rohler came to realize how important and deeply impactful the events were, even 25 years later. “Almost everyone I spoke with who was there the night [Lee died] cried at some point during an interview,” she tells.

Folks can read “Singing in the Dead of Night” at encorepub.com—as well as Rohler’s other serial fact-or-fiction piece, “The Contract Killer.” Picking up encore weekly will allow readers to keep up with Rohler’s Live Local column, theatre and

screened positive for food insecurity: “I explained to her that through the program with NourishNC, I had a box of food for her, and also a voucher for fruit, fresh vegetables, meat, and bread. I also told her of the resources list in the box that would help her with other resources in the community. She began crying, and thanked me. She explained that she was raising 5 of her grandchildren, and this would be a great help. I carried the box to her car for her (she had health issues, and could not carry it herself), and she still had tears in her eyes as she thanked me again. This program is really helping our community, and thanks to all the people that are responsible.”

By the time you go to print nearly 100 children in the clinic will have screened positive for food insecurity and then received the Food Farmacy Box (25 nutritious meals and snacks), a prescription for 20 pounds of fresh produce, meat/eggs, and wheat bread. e: Clearly “feeding the future” is on the minds of many Wilmingtonians who believe in Nourish NC’s work— why do you think Nourish NC’s mission resonates with so many at the moment in ILM? SM: There is an old quote from Fredrick Douglas that goes something like, “It’s easier to build strong children that to repair broken adults.” We envision NourishNC as part of a “wraparound ecosys-

BEST WRITER

GWENYFAR ROHLER book reviews. In the last year she’s interviewed fellow award-winning author Clyde Edgerton about his ongoing efforts with equality in NHC schools and the history of voting laws in North Carolina. She also returns to themes periodically, including the loss of NC’s film industry, the importance of elections not being a spectator sport and ongoing participation in democracy. And, of course, she’s always dishing on her ongoing VW project and historic renovations, as well as adventures with her life partner Jock and pup Hilda in 2019.

“I get a lot of mail about those stories,” she notes of the bus. “My renovation projects also generate a lot of mail (apparently we have a lot of readers with historic homes in their lives). . . . In the fall when the weather cools a bit, I am hoping to take Hilda in the VW Van to many of the NC

state historic sites in the Eastern (read: flat) part of the state. . . . I harbor a small dream of taking Hilda to trace President Washington’s tour through NC.” Rohler also is tasked with saying goodbye to community members we’ve lost, such as her recent memoriams on Bob Jenkins, Mr. Daughtry (the founder of Old Books) and Grenaldo Frazier. “Those are really tough to write,” she admits. “But they are rewarding pieces to work on because they are the chance to celebrate the lives that shape our community. With so many people moving here, in some ways those pieces are the way to teach the memory of this place to new residents.”

Gwenyfar Rohler won Best Writer by 39% of votes.

—Shannon Gentry

BEST NONPROFIT

NOURISH NC tem” that is dedicated to building happy and healthy children and driven by partnerships. If our community’s most vulnerable children are to reach higher levels of health and wellness then we must meet their most basic needs first. Our goal is address these children’s unmet physiological needs so our partners can more effectively educate them, address their illnesses, and help them build resiliency. This community seems to understand that notion and has really rallied behind NourishNC.

ishNC’s programs. Tickets go on sale July 1 and will sell out quick so get them right away. Coastline Convention Center, September 21. Check out nourishnc.org for more details. e: We saw you’re looking for drivers on FB—tell us more about that volunteer opportunity, the commitment hours and such in case anyone is interested…

SM: We have filled that opportunity. We post all volunteer opps here. Check back e: You have your gala in September, often or follow us on Facebook. any planning news or updates we can e: What are some other ways folks share with readers on that front? can get involved with Nourish NC this SM: This year’s gala is presented by summer and the rest of 2019?

Slice of Life and features custom food SM: Oh man, there are so many ways stations by local faves True Blue Butcher to help: you can sponsor a child’s “Sum(runnerup for Best Steak) and a surprise guest, live music from Masonboro Sound mer Break Box” that will provide them with and Port City Shakedown, inspiration by three meals a day all summer long, host a Dr. Phillip Brown (chief physician execu- creative food drive to help us fill those boxtive at New Hanover Regional Medical es, and volunteer to help us pack them.

Center), décor donated by Design Per- This and lots more great ways to get infection, craft cocktails, hosted bar, and volved at nourishnc.org/takeaction. great auctions. All proceeds benefit Nour —Shannon Gentry

Wanna learn about more Best Of winners? Be sure to follow our socials (@encorepub) and check us online at encorepub.com! Some winners have fun and educational videos about their business to share with readers. encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 11

NEWS>>FEATURE

LIVE LOCAL, LIVE SMALL:

NAACP approaches centennial celebration of fighting for equal rights BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

CELEBRATING THE FIGHT FOR EQUALITY: Deborah Maxwell is the current president of the New Hanover County chapter of the NAACP. They will celebrate 100 years serving the community in the fight for equality on May 31 at Wilmington Convention Center. Courtesy photos

I

n 1898 Wilmington, NC, was the site of the only successful government coup on American soil since the American Revolution. It was accompanied by an attack on the African-American community—and looked much like a dress rehearsal for Kristallnacht in Nazi Germany. Unfortunately, those attacks became increasingly more common in America.

The history of the North Carolina National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NC NAACP) notes: “When these pogroms reached Lincoln’s hometown [Springfield, Illinois], it sparked enough outrage among some white progressives to put out a call to action which said, in part: “We call upon all the believers in democracy to join in a national conference for the discussion of present evils, the voicing of protests, and the renewal of the struggle

for civil and political liberty.”

The multi-racial group that responded included Ida B. Wells, W.E. B. Du Bois, Mary Ovington and Moorfield Storey, among others.

“The public needs to know this organization was founded by a diverse group of people—men, women, black, white, Christian and Jewish,” notes Deborah Dicks Maxwell, district 16 director of the NC NAACP. That was 1909. Ten years later, in 1919, our local chapter was founded. It doesn’t take much stretch of the imagination to extrapolate that the group who founded our local chapter included people who lived through and remembered the massacre of 1898. “This unit was started in 1919 by Rev. A.F. Elmes,” Maxwell confirms.

On Friday, May 31, at 7 p.m. at Wilmington Convention Center, our chapter of

12 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

NAACP will celebrate its centennial. The keynote speaker will be Ms. Tafeni English of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). A nonprofit law firm and advocacy origination, SPLC was founded in 1971 by Julian Bond, Joseph J .Levin Jr. and Morris Dees. The organization monitors hate groups and utilizes the legal system on behalf of victims of hate crimes. Though Morris Dees has left the organization under allegations of harassment, SPLC continues to pursue their mission.

Ms. English works as director of their Civil Rights Memorial Center (CRMC) in Montgomery, Alabama. It seeks to educate visitors about the civil rights movement and houses the Civil Rights Memorial, to honor 40 men, women and children killed in the struggle. It’s quite a fitting choice for an organization dedicated to civil rights—and in an area that still struggles with two inescapable events on our streets—to bring in

English to speak at its centennial.

In addition to the coup and massacre of 1898, we were also the site of the Wilmington 10 in 1971. The Wilmington 10 is the name used to refer to the 10 people who represent events surrounding the New Hanover County School system. According to The NCPedia: “Wilmington’s African-American students announced a boycott of the city’s schools.

Ben Chavis, an experienced activist from Oxford, N.C., was called to Wilmington to organize the boycott. Ten people—nine African American men and one white woman—were arrested, tried and convicted on charges of arson and conspiracy to fire upon firemen and police officers. The ‘Wilmington Ten’ were sentenced to a combined 282 years in prison.”

The case took off worldwide. Some be-

lieved the 10 were political prisoners more for their overall beliefs of inclusivity and less for their actions on February 6, 1971.

One of the 10, Rev. Benjamin Chavis, served as executive director of the National NAACP. “I am very proud of the fact we were part of the hiring of the first black police officer since reconstruction, Sgt. Haynes, and the part we played in pardoning the Wilmington 10 to include the beautiful packed ceremony,” Maxwell notes. The work of the NAACP legal defense fund, in conjunction with Dr. Eaton’s work to desegregate James Walker Memorial Hospital, remains an important moment in the area’s history as well.

The NCPedia cites 1917 as the launching point for the NC NAACP. Early work focused on anti-lynching campaigns, fair employment, voter registration, and equal education. Branches increased over the years, and membership grew to 5,700.

The work of Kelly M. Alexander, Sr., of the Charlotte area revived the Piedmont chapter in the 1940s and propelled him to the National NAACP. Under his leadership the statewide NAACP grew to over 120 branches and 30,000 members.

“During his presidency, the Alexander home was bombed and his life threatened as he carried out his duties to the NAACP mission,” Maxwell tells of NC NAACP his-

tory. As well Alexander’s brother, lawyer Julius Chambers and activist Reginald Hawkins all had their homes bombed.

Charles Chestnut, author of “The Marrow of Tradition,” a fictionalized account of the events of 1898 written at the time, grew up in Fayetteville. By 1898 he was living in Ohio, where he passed the bar. In addition to committing the events of 1898 to the page from the perspective of an AfricanAmerican, in a novel that was reviewed

by William Dean Howells in the New York Times, he used his legal training to work with the NAACP. Among his accomplishments in the courtroom were to secure prohibitions against public screenings in Ohio of “Birth of a Nation,” D.W. Griffith’s film celebrating the KKK. In addition to the strides the NAACP has made in the big picture, Maxwell points to the accomplishments they have made in daily life. More so, the success they’ve had mentoring the next generation. “Personally, I am proud we have an annual scholarship program and have National ACT-SO winners,” she notes.

In 1978 the NAACP launched the AfroAcademic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics—or “ACT-SO.” It is for high-school students to compete locally, regionally and eventually nationally in the categories. The projects usually have a mentorship component with someone in

the community, and focus on rewarding problem-solving and academic excellence.

It is lovely how they pass on the accumulated wisdom and knowledge from one generation to the next, in a very personal but also applicable way. Maxwell is focused on the work to come.

“The future and the next 100 years we will continue to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination as we work towards equity,” she comments. “This organization continues to be diverse. The word ‘colored’ in the organization name throws some people off.”

Everyone is invited to support and meet with the NAACP. Their meetings are held the fourth Thursday of every month at 501 Red Cross St. at St. Stephens. The Centennial Celebration offers an opportunity to celebrate the strides of our community and to start putting together action steps to move forward on the road to equality.

DETAILS:

NAACP Centennial Celebration

Friday, May 31, 7 p.m.

Tickets: $75 Speakers include Tafeni English and Ian Davis Wilmington Convention Center 515 Nutt St.

encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 13

capitol, handing out baggies of moose nuggets in protest of Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s proposed budget. [KTOO, 4/26/2019]

NEWS THAT SOUNDS LIKE A JOKE

shot him with a beanbag round and took him What began as a quiet family dinner at into custody. Turner was charged with felony malicious wounding, use of a firearm in the home quickly escalated into a front-yard commission of a felony and possession of a brawl on April 22 in Bedford, Virginia. Fox firearm by a felon. [Fox News, 5/2/2019] News reported that Mark Turner, 56, his girlfriend, the girlfriend’s son and the son’s girl- FREE SPEECH friend had retired to the front yard after dinner TSA agents at Juneau International Airwhen an argument broke out between the port logged unexpected cargo on April 15 two men about whether Chevrolet or Ford when a “large organic mass” was spotted in makes better vehicles. According to the Bed- a traveler’s carry-on bag. TSA spokesperford County Commonwealth’s Attorney Wes son Lisa Farbstein explained to KTOO that Nance, Turner allegedly pulled out a knife such a flag can indicate the presence of exbut ended up slashing his girlfriend’s back as plosives. However, when agents opened the she tried to calm the situation. Next Turner bag, they found a plastic grocery bag full of went inside and retrieved a gun, but as the moose “nuggets.” “The passenger told the girlfriend again tried to get between him and TSA officers that he collects this and likes her son, he allegedly shot the woman five to present it ‘for politicians and their (bleep) times in the leg. He also shot the son in the policies,’” Farbstein explained. The passenger was not detained and was allowed arm, and two of his stray bullets hit the son’s to continue on with his bag of moose poop. girlfriend in her back and cheek. Finally, acLater that day, the Anchorage Daily News cording to prosecutors, Turner barricaded reported that a man was seen at the state himself in the house, where police eventually

OVERREACTIONS

Arnold J. Teeter, 49, became angry while dining at a Perkins restaurant in Painesville, Ohio, on April 16. First, he threw a menu at his waitress; when a manager stepped in, Teeter upped his game and grabbed his pet iguana from under his shirt, twirled it in the air and launched it toward the manager. Teeter was charged with disorderly conduct -- and with cruelty to animals, because Copper, the turquoise iguana, suffered a broken leg in the incident. The Lake County Humane Society has taken the female lizard into protective custody and is trying to raise money for the surgery she needs, reports WEWS. No word on whether the Perkins manager suffered any injuries in the incident. [WEWS, 5/3/2019]

YIKES!

John Gardner was minding his own business, driving to work in Conway, South Carolina, on April 30 when “a big, black dot” flew into his windshield, shattering the glass, according to WBTW. “I didn’t get hurt at all,” Gardner said, although he was covered in glass fragments. The flying object didn’t fare so well: A nearby truck had hit a tortoise crossing the road and projected it into Gardner’s car. Rob’s Auto Body said the animal died on impact. The truck driver was also unhurt, but it’s estimated that repairs to Gardner’s car will cost about $2,000.

[WBTW, 5/2/2019]

CRIME REPORT

Sometimes a girl just wants a pretty new thing. But Aida Melcado, 18, and an unnamed minor accomplice, let greed get the best of them. Lower Allen Township Police say Melcado and her helper browsed through the Victoria’s Secret store in the Capital City Mall in Bethesda, Maryland, on April 7, carrying large shopping bags and talking on cellphones. While the minor acted as a lookout, Melcado allegedly shoveled delicates into her bag, to wit: 375 hipster panties (worth $3,937.50), 375 cut thongs ($3,937.50), 1,000 thongs ($10,500) and 250 raw-cut hip-hugging panties ($2,625), for a grand total of $21,000. Police told WPMT they later identified the thieves during a drug investigation in Fairfax County, Virginia. [WPMT, 5/3/2019]

LIKELY STORY

Police in Tempe, Arizona, said Vanessa Santillan, 40, and her boyfriend were arguing as she was driving on April 21. When she stopped, he exited the car and crossed the street to a sidewalk. Santillan then honked the horn, and her boyfriend returned a rude gesture, according to KTVK/KPHO. That’s when police say Santillan drove onto the sidewalk and hit the man, causing injuries serious enough to require a trip to the hospital and stitches. Santillan drove away, but later spoke to police saying she wasn’t aware it was “that bad” when she left the scene, further elaborating that she had “blacked out” and didn’t remember hitting the boyfriend -- even though her car had visible damage. She was booked on one count of aggravated assault and one count of failing to remain at the scene of a collision with injuries. [AZFamily.com, 5/1/2019]

UPDATE

News of the Weird reported in May 2018 about Thomas Tramaglini, the superintendent of Kenilworth Public Schools in New Jersey, who pleaded guilty to defecating on the Holmdel High School track and football field “on a daily basis.” On April 30, Fox News reported, Tramaglini filed a lawsuit against the Holmdel Police Department for releasing his mug shot, claiming doing so tarnished his reputation and “altered his life forever.” Tramaglini’s actions earned him the nickname “pooperintendent,” and he claims to be “underemployed” and “fighting for any semblance of normalcy he can create for himself and his family.” However, he also negotiated a “separation agreement” of more than $100,000 with the district in August 2018. [Fox News, 5/1/2019]

OOPS

Runners of the Belfast City Marathon on May 5 who felt the course would never end had a legitimate reason, CNN reported. Organizing committee chairman David Seaton admitted later that “approximately 460 additional meters were added to the officially measured course of 26.2 miles,” a difference of about three-tenths of a mile. Seaton blamed the mistake on “human error, with the lead car diverting from the official route.”

Organizers promised to adjust runners’ times to account for the additional mileage.

[CNN, 5/5/2019]

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900 S Kerr Ave Wilmington, NC 28403 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 15

ARTS>>MUSIC

BOOBIE BROTHERS:

The Blue Footed Boobies talk friendship and new music ahead of Friday’s show of each other and try new things. We always play new songs live we have yet to release, and we have a couple “jams” we rip that are developing into songs with lyrics. There’s so many songs in our vault we are just waiting to release.

BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY

“W

hen you’re best friends, everything always runs smoothly,” says Logan Chaucer (vocals, guitar, bass, triangle) of his Blue Footed Boobies duo.

e: As Wilmingtonians, what’s your take on the talent in town? How has our city impacted your own sound and journey— as individuals or as a duo?

His other half, the best friend of whom he speaks, is Sam Baker (drums, Kazoo).

“Sunshine and rainbows are our middle names,” Chaucer continues. “We pretty much hang out everyday, so when you have that kind of chemistry with someone, it definitely translates to the stage.”

It doesn’t hurt their personalities are complementary. Their psychedelic-blues-rock outfit began in 2014, yet they aren’t mere bandmates. They hang outside of the band, BROTHERS IN SONG: Wilmington’s Blue Footed Boobies will play at Bourgie Nights this Friday. too—at the beach, on a boat.

Photo by Drew Marks

“I’m the go-go-go-get-things-done kind of guy,” Baker says. “Logan is more mellow and laid back, so we balance each other out very well and keep each other grounded.”

THURS

Chaucer is the lyricist; Baker only recently became a percussionist. Still, the natural progression of their sound and of the band matches the ease of their camaraderie. “That in itself is the spirit of rock-n-roll: doing whatever we want,” he says. “Most of our music evolves and changes with us; we never play a song the same way twice.”

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

Wine & cider are available.

The Blue Footed Boobies have a new song, “Sky is Falling,” as well as a series of other newbie Boobie tunes they’ll play on their summer tour, with soon-to-be announced dates in July. Until then, they’ll open for Hannah Wicklund & the Step-in’ Stones at Bourgie Nights come Friday, May 24. encore shot the shit with the two besties ahead of their show this weekend. encore (e): What’s the story behind the name Blue Footed Boobies? Do you just love the bird’s mating dance or what?

Logan Chaucer (LC): We just thought it was a really funny name. After all, who doesn’t like boobies? e: Tell our readers more about your latest single, “Sky is Falling” ...

LC: The song itself is just about heartbreak, something very familiar to all of us.

There’s a lot of emotion in it and the blues chord voicings fit the song very well. We both tried to play with a lot of power on this one. It shows in the overall soundscape of the track.

Sam Baker (SB): I’ve only been playing

16 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

the drums for two years, and to be honest, I had no idea what I was doing until now. I finally feel confident and comfortable with the recording process and what we are trying to achieve. Logan’s always been great about giving me free reign on my half and in this journey. So ‘Sky is Falling’ is the first of many songs to come that represents us as a unified duo. I’m just so excited to release our other recordings and get back in the studio!

LC: Being from Wilmington, there is immense talent all around. There are so many gifted musicians and the music scene is quite eclectic, so [we’re] constantly being influenced by different genres in different ways. We’ve been fortunate enough to build relationships with bands like ASG, who have been like big brothers to us and have shown us the ropes.

SB: The talent in Wilmington has shaped and molded me into the musician I am today.

Aside from Logan, some of my best friends, Will Daube and Michael Eakins, have taught me a wealth of knowledge about music. My biggest influencers are my best friends.

Logan and I aren’t very shy so we’ve become close with the majority of [people in] the music scene here in town. Everyone is extremely talented; I’m excited to see more of these rock bands emerge in what was at one point a reggae-driven market. The time e: Is it a part of an upcoming EP or full- for rock-n-roll has come. length album? e: Anything you’d like to add about LC: “Sky is Falling” is not necessarily a part opening for Hannah Wicklund & the Stepof a larger project. We have other singles re- in’ Stones at Bourgie? corded and will be releasing them in coming LC: Hannah is an extremely talented permonths. We have plenty of material for a full- former and a very gifted singer and guitar length record we will be releasing in 2020. player. It’s always a privilege to share a stage For the next six months, however, we are with someone like her. Playing with a group focusing on touring and spreading The Blue that is similar in genre and style is really cool.

Footed Boobies name as much as we can. e: Without any explanation or context, e: Are you playing other new songs live what is one word or phrase you’d use to —not yet recorded or released? describe each other?

LC: Yes—our set is constantly changing.

We play what we feel at every show. There is a lot of material you can hear at our shows that you won’t hear on any of our records.

Playing shows is a privilege, so when we walk on stage we give it 100%. Gotta give the people what they want. This is rock-n-roll, after all!

SB: One of my favorite things about playing with Logan is the freedom we get to express on stage. Our songs are always evolving, and we are always exploring with our music. We constantly bounce ideas off

LC: Best friends SB: Broooo!

DETAILS:

Blue Footed Boobies

Opening for Hannah Wicklund & the Steppin’ Stones Friday, May 24, 10 p.m.

Bourgie Nights • 127 Princess St. Tickets: $10-$15 thebluefootedboobies.com

encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 17

A PREVIEW OF EVENTS ACROSS TOWN THIS WEEK

THE SOUNDBOARD

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THIS WEEK AT THE WITCH THUR 5/23 WED 5/22 CHAEL J.V. FLANAGAN & JARED MI UO D E IN CL R JEFF GOVE SAT 5/25 FRI 5/24 SONIC SPECTRUM SPARE CHANGE SUN 5/26 MACHINE GUN

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THURSDAY, MAY 23 ACCESS 29 FRIDAY, MAY 24 FEEBS SATURDAY, MAY 25 OVERTYME 7324 Market Street • 910-821-8185 www.ogdentaproom.com OPEN 7 DAYS AWEEK

Mon.-Thurs.: 4pM-12:30 aM Fri.-saT.: 4pM - 1:30aM sun: 4pM-11pM 2101 MarkeT sT uniT 7 (910) 599-4999

Monday Mules $5 serving over 22 craFT beers • all abc perMiTs

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

Open Mic Night w/ Bob Sarnataro (5:30pm; Free)

—Tidal Creek Co-Op, 5329 Oleander Dr., #100

J.V. Flanagan & Jeff Gover (7pm; Free)

—The SeaWitch Cafe, 227 Carolina Beach Ave. N.

—Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

The Jared Show (8pm; Free; Alt Hip Hop, Acoustic)

—Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St., Unit 7

Josh Solomon (8pm; Free; Singer-songwriter) —Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.

Hooked on Sonics: Territorial Sound (8pm; $5)

Music Bingo w/DJ Sherri ‘So Very’ (7pm; Free)

—The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Music Bingo (7:30pm; Free)

—Varnish Ale & Spirits, 23 Market St.;

—Local’s Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd.

Tuesday 1/2-price wine bottles Benny Hill’s Sunday Jazz Jam, 7-10pm

TUESDAY TUNES: Singer-songwriter ellen cherry—lowercase letters intentional—is touring wiith good friend and fellow artist Andrew Grimm (June Star), with their next stopover over at Juggling Gypsy on Tuesday, May 28. Photo by Bonnie J. Schupp

—The Harp, 143 S. 3rd St.

Latin Night (8pm; Free; Reggae, Spanish)

—Gigi’s Coffeehouse, 413 S. College Rd., Unit 12

Wine Down & Karaoke (8pm; Free)

Wine Time Karaoke (9pm; Free)

Extreme Music Bingo w/Party Gras (10pm; Free) —Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

Wet Wednesdays: Dubstep/DJ (10:30pm; Free) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.

THURSDAY, MAY 23

Into The Fog (6pm; Free; Bluegrass, Folk)

—Salty Turtle Beer Company, 103 Triton Ln.

Kyle Lindley plays Flytrap Brewing (6pm; Free) —Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

Live On The Loop! Music Series (6pm; Free) —The Sailfish, 2570 Scotts Hill Loop Rd.

Jeremy Mathews (6pm; Free; Singer-songwriter)

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $30)

—Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S Water St.

Amanda Hoke (flute) and Domonique Launey (piano) (6:30pm; $12-$17)

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.

18 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

—Satellite Bar and Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.

Marc Siegel (7pm; Free; Guitar)

Fux Rocks (9pm; Free)

Live Music in the Alley (7pm; Free)

Dos Eddies (9pm; Free)

—Bluewater Grill, 4 Marina St.

Jazz At The Nail (7pm; Free)

The Cellfish (9pm; $5)

—Salty Turtle Beer Company, 103 Triton Ln.

Revolutionary Poets Presents Remembering Sam Sharpe Open Mic (7:30pm; $5)

CDBD (10pm; $10; Rock Jam)

—Satellite Bar and Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.

—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.

Live Jazz (6pm; Free)

Trivia from Hell’s (7:30pm; Free)

SATURDAY, MAY 25

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $30)

—Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 S. Front St. —Rebellion NC, 15 S. Front St.

—The Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

—Jamaica Housel, 2206 Carolina Beach Rd. —Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

Girls Choir of Wilmington Concert (7:30pm; Free) —St. Matthews, 612 S. College Rd.

Trivia w/ Party Gras Ent. (8pm; Free)

—Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

Throwback Thursday Karaoke w/ DJ Camo (8pm; Free)

—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St. —Pour Taproom, 201 N. Front St., Suite G101; —The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Music on the Patio (12pm; Free)

—Hotel Ballast, 301 N. Water St.

Cross Creek Band (3pm; Free)

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

Samuel Hatch (6pm; Free; Acoustic) —Pilot House, 2 Ann St.

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.

Back of the Boat Tour (4:00 pm; Free)

—Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St., Unit 7

Reggae Sundays (7pm; Free)

—Jamaica House, 2206 Carolina Beach Rd.

Music Trivia (7pm; Free)

—The Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

—Dead Crow Comedy, 265 North Front St.

Josh Lewis (7pm; Free)

Mike O’Donnell (8:30pm; Free; Singer-songwriter)

John Toppings (7pm; Free)

—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

—Cloud 9 Rooftop, 9 Estell Lee Pl.

Music Bingo (7pm; Free)

—Mac’s Speed Shop, 4126 Oleander Dr.

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

Thirsty Thursday (10pm; Free)

Geoffrey Asmus & Raanan Hershberg (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy)

TUESDAY, MAY 28

FRIDAY, MAY 24

Randy McQuay (5pm; Free; Roots, Soul) —Hotel Ballast, 301 N. Water St.

Music on the Patio (5pm; Free)

—Hotel Ballast, 301 N. Water St.

Jazz Gala 2019 (6pm; $35)

—Coastline Conference Center, 501 Nutt St.

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $30)

—Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.

Satisfaction (6:30pm; Free; Rolling Stones Tribute) —Downtown Wilmington, 208 N Front St.

David Dixon (7pm; Free; Singer-songwriter) —Cloud 9 Rooftop, 9 Estell Lee Pl.

North 4th Neighborhood Soul Party (7pm; Free) —Palate, 1007 N. 4th St.

Live Jazz with N.C. Musicians! (7pm; Free)

—Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 S. Front St.

Modern Vintage (7pm; Free; Acoustic Duo) —Johnny Lukes, 5500 Martket St.

Geoffrey Asmus & Raanan Hershberg (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy) —Dead Crow Comedy, 265 N. Front St.;

Spare Change (8pm; $3; Funk)

—The SeaWitch Cafe, 227 Carolina Beach Ave. N.

—Dead Crow Comedy, 265 North Front St.

Just Yesterday (8pm; Free; ‘90s Grunge)

—Buffalo Wild Wings, 5533 Carolina Beach Rd.

Entangled Dreams with Drummer Justin Heter (8pm; $5) —Gravity Records, 612 Castle St.

Stray Local w/ Striking Copper & Rebekah Todd (8:30pm; $8-$10; Americana) —Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

Jim Ferris Trio (9pm; Free)

—Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

John Howie Jr. w/ Salt Mullet / Sean and her Dilemma (9pm; $5)

‘90s Night! (7pm; Free)

—Coach’s, 29 Van Campen Blvd.

Trivia w/Sherri ‘So Very’ (7pm; Free)

—Local’s Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd.

Andrew Grimm (June Star), w/ Ellen Cherry (7pm; $5) —The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Drum & Dance Downtown (7:30pm; Free) —The Calico Room, 115 N 2nd St.

Lucky Joe’s Open Mic Night (7:30pm; Free)

—Broomtail Craft Brewery, 6404 Amsterdam Way

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

Johanna Winkel (9pm; Free; Singer-songwriter) —Pour Taproom, 201 N. Front St., Suite G101

THURSDAY

Frequency (9pm; $5; Electrontic DJs)

$3.00 PBR 16oz cans $3.00 Coors Light $6 Redbull and Vodka

—The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Dubtown Cosmonauts w/ Tanbridge (9:30pm; Free) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.

Fux Rocks (10pm; Free)

—The Whiskey, 1 S Front St.;

SUNDAY, MAY 26

John Hussmann (12pm; Free; Singer-songwriter) —Pilot House, 2 Ann St.

100 S. FRONT ST. 910-251-1832

LIVE MUSIC in the courtyard on Friday & Saturday MONDAY

$2.75 Domestic $3.50 Select Drafts $4 Fireballs!

TUESDAY

$3.50 Local Draft Brew

Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin’ Stones w/ Blue Footed Boobies (9pm; $10)

Sam Jam (1pm; Free; Singer-songwriter)

(Foothills Hoppyum IPA, Red Oak)

Randy McQuay (3pm; Free; Acoustic, Soul)

Joshua Ward (9pm; Free)

—Dockside Restaurant & Bar, 1308 Airlie Rd.

WEDNESDAY

—Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

—Kickback Jack’s, 418 S. College Rd.

To Better Waters (9pm; Free)

—The SeaWitch, 227 Carolina Beach Ave. N.

Reggae Sunday w/ Foundation Stone! (3pm; Free)

> > > saturday $4.00 Green Tea

> > > SUNDAY $5.00 Bloody Marys & Mimosas

Trivia from Hell’s (7:30pm; Free)

Diver Down Live (7pm; Free)

—Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

$3.75 Sweet Water $4.00 Absolute Lemon Drop

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

‘90s Party Night (9pm; Free) —Pravda, 23 N. Front St.

> > > Tuesday

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

> > > WEDNESDAY

Model Zero / Crunk Witch / St. Clones (9pm; $5)

—Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.

—Made Mole Brewing, 6309 Boathouse Rd.;

> > > THURSDAY $3.75 Hay Bale Ale

$3.75 Wicked Weed $4.00 Margaritas

—The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

Open Mic Comedy (8pm; Free)

> > > Monday $3.75 Red Oak Draft $4.00 Wells 65¢ Wings, 4-7pm

—Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S Water St.

MONDAY, MAY 27

—Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S Water St.

ON OUR LOT

Bluegrass Jam! (6pm; Free)

Sunset Cruise with Live Acoustic Music (6:30pm; $30)

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

FREE PARKING

Josh Lewis (5pm; Free; Singer-songwriter)

$5 Jameson

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

FRIDAY

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

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

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

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

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

1 Coronoa/

$ 50 $5.50 Wheat Domestic Pints $1.50Lite Bottles 2 Corona $ SUNDAY Corona/Corona Lt. $2.50 Margaritas/Peach Margaritas 4 Margaritas on the Rocks $4.50 All Flat Breads $6 after 5pm

THURSDAY in bar and patio areas

THURSDAY $ $ $3 Mimosa Appletinis 4, RJ’s Painkiller 5 Truly Lime Spiked and $ 50 Mary $4 Bloddy 2 Red Stripe Bottles Sparkling Water $3 Domestic $ 50 Pints $1.50 2 Fat Tire Bottles 22oz. Tropical Lightning 5564 Carolina Beach Road IPA $5.50 FRIDAY(910)-452-1212 $ 50our website Sinking Bahama Mama $7 $4, 007Visit Cosmos 3 www.RuckerJohns.com $ 1/2 Off All Premium Guinnessfor Cans daily3specials, music and Red Wine Glasses upcoming events $

Island Sunsets 5 SATURDAY Baybreeze/Seabreeze $4 $ 3 S. 3rd St. 22oz. Blue Moon Draft1423 $ 2 Select Domestic Bottles DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON SUNDAY (910) 763-1607 Bloody Marys $4, Domestic Pints $150 Hurricanes $5 Tuesday __________________________________________ 5564 Carolinaw/DJ BeachDamo, Road, 9PM KARAOKE (910) 452-1212 2 KILLIANS • $400 MAGNERS

$ 50

Thursday ________________________________________

TRIVIA

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

Friday & Saturday __________________________

LIVE MUSIC 2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS

$ 00

Sunday ___________________________________________

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

encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 19

Contra Dance (7:30pm; $5)

—The SeaWitch, 227 Carolina Beach Ave. N.

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

Live Music in the Alley (7pm; Free)

Music Bingo (8pm; Free)

—Rebellion NC, 15 S. Front St.

—The Brewer’s Kettle, 4718 Oleander Dr.

Jazz At The Nail (7pm; Free)

—The Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

Revolutionary Poets Presents Remembering Sam Sharpe Open Mic (7:30pm; $5)

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29

Open Mic Night w/ Bob Sarnataro (5:30pm; Free)

—Jamaica House, 2206 Carolina Beach Rd.

—Tidal Creek Co-Op, 5329 Oleander Dr., #100

Trivia from Hell’s (7:30pm; Free)

—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

Jason Jackson & Randall Canady (7pm; Free)

Trivia w/ Party Gras Ent. (8pm; Free)

—Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

—The SeaWitch, 227 Carolina Beach Ave. N.

Music Bingo w/DJ Sherri ‘So Very’ (7pm; Free) —Local’s Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd.

Throwback Thursday Karaoke w/ DJ Camo (8pm; Free) HEARTBREAK CROONING: Haybaby plays ‘honey-ass heartbreak crooning’ with notes of sludgy pop and slop rock. They’ll play with It Looks Sad at Reggie’s 42nd Street Tavern on May 30. Courtesy photo

Music Bingo (7:30pm; Free)

—The Harp, 143 South 3rd St.

Latin Night (8pm; Free; Reggae, Spanish)

—Gigi’s Coffeehouse, 413 S. College Rd., Unit 12

Wine Down & Karaoke (8pm; Free) —Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

Josh Solomon (8pm; Free; Singer-songwriter) —Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.

Wine Time Karaoke (9pm; Free)

—Varnish Ale & Spirits, 23 Market St.

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

Open Mic Comedy (8pm; Free)

—Dead Crow Comedy, 265 N. Front St.

Extreme Music Bingo w/Party Gras (10pm; Free)

Sean Gregory (6pm; Free; Singer-songwriter)

Live Requests w/ Mike O’Donnell (8:30pm; Free)

Wet Wednesdays w/ DJ Dubstep (10:30pm; Free)

Jeff Sanchez (6pm; Donations; Guitar)

‘90s Party Night (9pm; Free)

Live @ the Park: Painted Man (6:30pm; Free)

It Looks Sad and Haybaby (9pm; Free)

Marc Siegel (7pm; Free; Guitar)

Thirsty Thursday (10pm; Free)

—Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

—The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.

THURSDAY, MAY 30

Live On The Loop! Music Series (6pm; Free) —The Sailfish, 2570 Scotts Hill Loop Rd.

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

Blended and topped with homemade whip cream.

20 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr. —Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St. —Leland Municipal Park, 113 Town Hall Dr.

—Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 S. Front St.

Color & Wanderlust (7pm; Free)

—Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St. —Pravda, 23 N. Front St.

—Reggie’s 42nd St., Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St. —Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTHEASTERN NC

SHOWSTOPPERS

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

Downtown Wilmington’s Riverfront Farmers Market NEW N O LOCATI

BIG BAND: St. Paul & The Broken Bones will play Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh on June 1 with Band Together. Photo by Tom Dorgan THE REEVES THEATER & CAFE 129 W. MAIN ST., ELKIN, NC (336) 258-8240 5/25: Michael Bennett & the “B” Sting Allstars 5/31: 5Point Adventure Film Reel NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE N. DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 5/29: Mickey Avalon and Dirt Nasty 5/30: Paul Thorn Band and Steve Poltz 6/2: Matt Costa and JD & The Straight Shot THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 5/30: Brytiago and Darell 5/31: Appetite for Destruction, Fiftywatt Freight Train 6/1: Da Baby 6/5: Tesla THE FILLMORE UNDERGROUND 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 5/25: Gasolina 5/31: Mostley Crue 6/1: A Very Get Sad Y’all 6/4: New Found Glory MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE, DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875 5/22: Thad and Kenny Roby 5/23: Slum Village, Shame and DJ Nevy 5/24: Mono and Emma Ruth Rundle 5/31: The Connells and Leisure McCorkle DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 123 VIVIAN ST. DURHAM, NC (919) 688-3722 6/2: Blackbear, Elohim and Gashi

DOWNTOWN (Dock St., on the block between Front and 2nd Streets) Each Saturday

March 23rd - November 24th • 8:00am - 1:00pm (no market Apr. 6 & Oct. 5)

LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111 5/23: A Night of Songwriters 5/24: Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds 5/31: Fade To Black 6/1: Joanne Shaw Taylor and The Buzzards Band 6/7: Justin West, Pine Box Dwellers and more CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 5/22: Ghost of Paul Revere (back) 5/23: Marti Jones and Don Dixon (back) 5/24: The Japanese House and Art School Girlfriend 5/24: Sons of Paradise, Africa Unplugged (back) 5/25: Violet Bell, Libby Rodenbough of Mipso (back) 5/30: Hardworker, Magnolia Collective and more (back) 5/31: The Sh-Booms and Blood Red River (back) 6/1: Solar Halos, MAKE, Mourning Cloak (back) RED HAT AMPHITHEATER 500 SOUTH MCDOWELL ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 996-8800 6/1: Band Together w/ St. Paul and the Broken Bones 6/6: Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals 6/7: Lake Street Dive and The Wood Brothers 6/8: Wu-Tang Clan THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 5/24: Nappy Roots 5/25: ABSFest Americana Burlesque & Sideshow Fest 5/26: Meat & Metal 3 5/29: Stereospread 5/31: Steel Panther, Wilson and True Villians 6/4: Slushii and Nitti Gritti 6/5: Dark Funeral, Belphegor, Incantation and more

- FRUITS - VEGETABLES - PLANTS - HERBS

- FLOWERS - EGGS - CHEESES - WINE

- PICKLES - KOMBUCHA - ART & CRAFTS

- MEATS - SEAFOOD - HONEY - BAKED GOODS

For more information: www.riverfrontfarmersmarket.org

encore encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 21

22 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

ARTS>>VISUAL

LIFE’S COLLAGE:

Arrow Ross talks life as a photographer, prepares for retrospective show at Aces Gallery

“S

The arts council gifted him grant money to do 15 portraits of local creatives. Pictures of Thalian Hall’s executive director, Tony Rivenbark, Cucalorus Festival executive director Dan Brawley, jewelery artist and entrepreneur Mitzi Jonkheer, and other ILM notables will come full circle as part of the collage on display in “RETRO.”

BY: SHEA CARVER

o did you paint this?” I ask Arrow Ross, pointing toward a heavily layered piece that resembles Jerry Garcia.

With a twinkle in his bright blue eyes and a thumb fumbling his signature rainbow suspenders, the 80-year-old photographer and ceramist is clear. “No, I am not a painter,” Ross clarifies. “That’s a painting from a friend of mine, Sergej Andreevski, from the No Boundaries Art Colony.”

Ross points to a mixed-media creation as his own self-portrait. However, Ross is most well-known as a Wilmington photographer.

The Arts Council of Wilmington and NHC will celebrate his 25 years in Wilmington as part of “RETRO,” opening Thursday, May 23. Ross will cram 60 photos onto three walls in the gallery’s small space.

“They’re all put together as an 8-foot-wide collage,” the Denmark-born artist tells, arms outstretched in animation. “The big prints are 16-inches-by-20-inches and go together so it becomes huge.”

The photographs will include stark black and whites from his days living in the Ozarks in the ‘70s with seven families on a hippie commune.

He also will showcase time spent capturing the everyday life of a small village in Macedonia in the ‘90s, plus his travels in the 2000s to India with local philanthropist Paul Wilkes who built Homes of Hope, an orphanage and school for young girls. Seven books Ross has made of his photography will be on display and available for purchase as part of “RETRO,” which also feature photos on the walls. And, in light of his five-year love affair with pottery (he’s been taking classes at Cape Fear Community College), some of his ceramics will be on display, including interesting shaped bowls, large towers and even a bench being held up by birds.

“But this stuff isn’t for sale,” he clarifies of his pottery. “They’re my personal pieces, so the emotional price is worth much more. While photography is seeing and capturing a moment or action, with a piece like this, you get a lump of clay and say, ‘What now?’ And I just let my fantasy run loose.”

Ross made his living from behind a lens all of his working life. It began in youth when his sister found a box camera in the forest and gifted it to her brother. At 15 he began a fouryear apprenticeship under a Danish photographer, and would run errands, sweep floors, and do whatever was asked of him. Ross wanted to move up the ladder and actually help in the studio.”

It was equivalent to a BA,” he notes. “When

RED ROOM: Arrow Ross entering and exiting a room in ‘Red Room’; photography, Photoshop.

Courtesy photo

the apprenticeship ended, I was trying to get to America and I couldn’t get in, so I ended up in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, with a job at a newspaper.”

It was during the country’s apartheid state, with police and politicians controlling everything. Ross worked with journalists to document the political upheaval. “And then I got fired for Communistic activity,” he tells, “which was asking for overpay.”

He moved on to England and worked in a museum photographing artwork for catalogues before hitchhiking across multiple continents— back to Africa, through the Middle East and home again to Denmark. He began working for an artist who was obsessed with Nordic art.

“He was mad because in Southern Europe they said Nordics didn’t have art of their own,” Ross tells. “So, for a couple of years, a French photographer and I traveled to all museums and documented Nordic art for art books.”

Along the way, Ross was married and divorced, and still desired to get into the United States. So he called an au pair he met back home, who he knew had gone to New Orleans to work for a family. He hoped she knew photographers who would take Ross on for a three-month work visa. As luck would have it, he ended up at PBS in their new film department.

“They needed someone who could do a combination of film and still photography,” Ross says. “So they asked: ‘Do you do film?’ I said yes—because in America you can lie. So

I worked with a photographer and learned how to cut 16mm film, and for two years I was there.

But I was in a union, and a technician took a strike for a pay raise. New Orleans only paid half of what the commercial rate was. After two weeks, they hired nonunion crew and our union did nothing.”

So off to Hollywood Ross went. He began working on a small indie film, “The Perfect Arrangement,” funded by the mother of the director/lead actor. “Film is film, and it was quite an experience,” he reflects. His work in the industry was short-lived, and in 1968 he decided he wanted a simpler life in the country.

Ross moved to the Ozarks to live on a hippie commune with seven other families; while there he was married and raised his children. “It was good when the kids were there,” he explains.

“But when they went off to high school and left, all us divorced people left, too, and it died out.”

Photos of the time period show women giving birth, men building structures, and family celebrations and weddings, including Ross’ own. In 1992 his ex-wife moved back to her home in Raleigh, NC, with the kids in tow. Ross followed and shortly after met an art dealer who turned him on to Wilmington, NC’s beaches. After visiting and meeting artists at Acme Art Studio (“the artists’ country club,” as Ross calls it), he made the move southeast in ‘94. Ross bought a dilapidated house on 5th Street next to Acme for a mere $8,000 and renovated the historic home himself over the next few years. By this time, Ross was making a living doing weddings and portraits, while also feeding his artistic side.

Also on display will be the transition Ross made into digital photography during the mid‘90s. Ross began treating his photos much like mixed media, often taking pictures of himself in various positions, manipulating them in Photoshop and inserting them into other photos.

For instance, “Red Room” features two doors and a hand reaching out, as Ross is entering and exiting in the same space. The outcome dances in surrealism and prompts intriguing questions of self-examination and societal examination. “A photograph never lies?” Ross asks rhetorically. “But what about today? You can certainly make them tell the story you want them to tell.” It’s a far cry from his darkroom days, where black and white was the rule of the roost. Ross misses the magic of developing film—and especially the smell.

“The chemical baths in a closed room and the picture emerges and comes to life before your eyes,” he describes without hesitation.

“Grey tones, then black, and you start seeing the image, and in the three minutes it takes to develop the piece of paper, rocking it … it’s mystic.”

Ross is no longer interested in photography; he says he has stretched the envelope. He’s starting to feel the same about ceramics, too.

Yet, it doesn’t mean he wants to stop learning.

As of now, he hopes to explore new forms of expression. Once “RETRO” is over, he will sojourn to the Ozarks for an annual camping trip to visit families he shared time and space with during the most wonderful days of his life.

“I’m looking for my new passion,” he expresses.

“Who knows? Maybe you will be a painter before it’s all said and done,” I suggest.

“I don’t know … maybe.”

DETAILS: RETRO

A retrospective exhibit of photos and ceramics by Arrow Ross Thursday, May 23, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Fourth Friday reception, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday reception, noon - 3 p.m.

Hangs through June 21 ACES Gallery, 221 N. Front St.

encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 23

24 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

ARTS>>VISUAL

GALLERYGUIDE ARTEXPOSURE!

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

ArtExposure is celebrating its 10th anniversary on May 11th from 11am-7pm. Please, mark your calendar and join us! We will host a food truck, a tent for artists, raffles and more!

Mary Ann Rozear will have her opening reception, “The Shapes of Memories, from North Carolina to Maine,” from 5-7 p.m. on the same day.

If you haven’t been to ArtExposure, please, take a drive to see us. You won’t regret it!

ART IN BLOOM GALLERY

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

View “Go With the Flow: Contemporary Art with E. Francisca Dekker and Karen Paden Crouch” through June 9. The new exhibit playfully pairs two contemporary artists with acrylic paintings by E. Francisca Dekker and weldedbronze sculpture by Karen Paden Crouch. Also, join us for an artist’s demonstration and Pop-up art exhibit by David Norris on Sunday, May 19, 2-5 pm. In addition to the art displayed at Art in Bloom, David’s current exhibit, “Brayers, Brushes, and Color Pencils by David Norris,” is on display at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 S. Front St. through June 3. Art in Bloom Gallery is open until 9 p.m. on Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, including May 24.

ART OF FINE DINING www.aibgallery.com

In addition to our gallery at 210 Princess Street, Art in Bloom Gallery partners with local businesses to exhibit original art in other locations. Current art exhibits include: “The Joy of Plein Air: Pastels by Laurie Greenbaum Beitch” at PinPoint Restaurant, 114 Market Street. The art exhibit continues through May 20.

“Brayers, Brushes, and Color Pencils by David Norris” at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street. The art exhibit continues through June 3.

CHARLES JONES AFRICAN ART 311 Judges Rd., Unit 6-E cjart@bizec.rr.com

DISCOVER NEW MUSIC AT 98.3 THE PENGUIN

(910) 794-3060 Mon. – Fri. 10am - 12:30 pm 1:30 pm - 4 pm Open other hours and weekends by appointment www.cjafricanart.com

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

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

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

NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY

271 N. Front St. (919) 343-8997 Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) www.newelementsgallery.com

Introducing Timothy David Lang in his debut show at New Elements Gallery, “Drifting.” A surfer, Timothy is inspired by the landscape, be that in the water or the scenery of the open road. Photo realism in style and masterful in its technique, Lang’s work goes way further by capturing not just a scene in incredible detail, but more importantly a mood. Come take a ride with Timothy David Lang and drift along with him. On display through May 18.

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

“I was a sculptor. I was a museum designer. I was a TV illustrator. I was a carpenter. I was a furniture designer. I was a product designer, a photographer, a painter,” Irwin said over the phone from his home in Beaufort. “It was like I was running up and down a smorgasbord going, ‘Oh, let me try some of this.’”

In Irwin’s summer exhibition, he pays homage to all of the artists and mentors who have influenced him throughout his life, leaving their mark on his work. Nearly a decade ago, Irwin—not to be confused with the installation artist also named Robert Irwin—added another page to his lengthy resume: author. Published in 2004, “40 Years” is Irwin’s autobiography, a no-holds-barred account of every aspect of his creative life, embellished with page after page of photographs of his dynamic paintings. Opening reception on May 24, 6 p.m., and closing reception on June 14, 6 p.m.

Closing reception on May 24, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Thank you encore readers for voting for The Penguin!

BEST RADIO STATION BEST MORNING SHOW: THE MORNING CHILL BEST LARGE MUSIC VENUE: GREENFIELD LAKE AMPHITHEATER BEST WEBSITE: PORTCITYDAILY.COM

RUNNERS UP BEST RADIO PERSONALITY ERIC MILLER

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY BEAU GUNN

We couldn’t be more grateful and feel so lucky to get to be the different kind of bird we are.

Thanks for the love!

WWW.983THEPENGUIN.COM encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 25

ARTS>>THEATRE

VICTORIAN-ERA ROCK SHOW:

‘Lizzie: The Musical’ lands at Thalian Cube before hitting Off-Broadway later in the summer

A

BY: SHEA CARVER

lmost a hundred years before the Menendez brothers’ infamous courtroom drama sent them to prison for killing their parents, another family’s brutal ending was coming to a head in Fall River, Massachusetts. In 1897 Lizzie Borden was accused of gruesomely taking a hatchet to her stepmother, Abby, 18 times before turning it 11 times to her father, Andrew, while he slept. Yet, a 12-man jury acquitted Lizzie; questionable evidence and eyewitness accounts, novice prosecutors, and poor police procedures ran aplenty in the case. It all made for headlines galore.

Ever since, the Victorian-era slaying has become fodder for literature, film, music and theatre productions. Come August “Lizzie: The Musical” will become an official OffBroadway show. First, Wilmington’s very own Panache Theatrical Productions will be one of the last community theatre organizations to secure its rights.

Opening this weekend in Thalian’s Cube theatre, “Lizzie: The Musical” is directed by Panache cofounder Anthony Lawson. Lawson has been fascinated by the Borden family’s story and immersed himself in research over the last year or so.

murder. The number “Somebody Will Do Something” allows the audience to see the moment Lizzie decides to follow through with the crime. “Bridget is her accomplice and turns a blind eye,” Smith adds.

Alice Russell, played by Meagan Golden, plays the Bordens’ neighbor and friend. Despite the murderous suspicion surrounding Lizzie, she believes, no matter the horrendous outcome, Lizzie is still good. Also, she is in love with Lizzie.

“Bryan Putnam was talking to me one day about this incredible show called ‘Lizzie,’ and I immediately went home and looked it up and went, ‘I have to do this!

This is amazing!’” Lawson notes. “It’s told [in] the voices of four women belting their faces off—it is a rock show. It is a punk show. It is a clashing of the Victorian world with the punk-rock scene.”

Music director J. Robert Raines will play guitar alongside guitarist Justin Lacy, keyboardist Linda Markas, bassist Eli Stafford, and percussionist JJ Street. Raines is bringing audiences a visceral connection to the show via its hard-hitting score.

“Whether you want it or not, you end up rooting for Lizzie,” he claims. “The heavy metal forces you to share her anger, the beautiful,

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“She has a strong sense of morals but is a hopeless romantic,” Golden reveals. “That love is strong enough at first but she is also conflicted to do what is right.”

GIRL POWER: ‘Lizzie: The Musical’ stars (l. to r., from top) Elisa Eklof Smith, Heather Setzler, Georgie Simon and Meagan Golden. Photo by James Bowling

flowing, somber tones spread sorrow through the room, and the disjointed four-on-the-floor beats make you feel just a little bit off as Lizzie descends into madness.”

Georgie Simon will play the protagonist.

The Borden family endured a lot of arguments leading up to the murders. Money and greed was at its core, though other ideas of sexual abuse and oppression, even Lizzie’s parents unwillingness to accept her as a lesbian, have come out as possible motives. For Simon, getting into Lizzie’s mindset has strengthened her character acting.

“The most surprising thing has been realizing how creepy I can be in this role,” she admits.

“I’ve seen [Anthony] cringe at some of the scarier things I do. I consider myself a bit of a softie, but Lizzie has unleashed a new side of me.”

Driving the character arc is Lizzie’s transformation from helpless to taking back her power amidst an unhealthy household. The songs move with her new sense of freedom. “‘Thirteen Days in Taunton’ is the culmination of Lizzie’s liberation,” Simon adds, “so I always feel like I’m sprinting toward that scene through the show.”

Playing Bridget Sullivan, Lizzie’s maid, is Elisa Eklof Smith. Bridget is the watchdog of the Borden household, baring witness to all that is said and enacted. Smith calls her a survivor because she puts up with a lot but also sees the big picture. “She understands the end game,” Smith continues. “She’s very calculated and calm in the face of chaos!”

Bridget becomes the motivator for Lizzie to

Yet, Russell’s love is one-sided. Eventually, she realizes she is only as good as an alibi. When Russell witnesses Lizzie burning a dress (possibly the blood-stained garment Lizzie was wearing during the murders), she begins to question her obligation to doing what’s right. Lizzie tells Russell it’s just a paintstained dress she no longer needed. “‘Burn the Old Thing Up’ is a beautiful, eerie song that serves as a precursor to Lizzie’s important decisions,” according to Golden. “‘Questions Questions’ is one of the most difficult musical theatre songs I have ever sung. It does a good job of emulating a panic attack. It’s like every single part of the music directly correlates with what is happening in their minds.

Even if you took the lyrics out, you would still get a good idea of what the characters are going through in that moment.”

Behind the scenes is costumer Stephanie Amann and set designer Benedict Fancy creating the Borden world. It is sparse, consisting of all black and a lot of lights. Lawson attributes it to more of a rock show than a traditional musical. “It features four strong women [Heather Setzler rounds out the cast as Emma Borden], relying on each other, clotting with each other, counting on each other, and blending to make an insane sound that no one in Wilmington has ever heard before,” Lawson promises.

“Lizzie: The Musical” opens May 23 and contains strong language and violence. Music and lyrics are by Steven Cheslik-DeMeyer and Alan Stevens Hewitt, with lyrics and book by Tim Maner.

DETAILS:

Lizzie: The Musical

May 23-June 2, Thurs.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m.

Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St. Tickets: $22-$25 • thalianhall.org

encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 27

ARTS>>THEATRE

G-RATED SEX COMEDY:

‘Best Little Whorehouse in Texas’ has solid work from local actors, lacks sassy flavor

K

stage in their supporting roles.

BY: CHASE HARRISON

nown as the world’s oldest profession, prostitution has found itself at the forefront of a number of plots throughout entertainment—so much so, over the years an archetype character for the role emerged. We have all seen the hooker with a heart of gold, from the streetwalking Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman” to the documentary series “Cathouse” showing the real goings-on in a legal Las Vegas brothel. Society is so fascinated by debauchery behind the closed doors of others.

It’s clear America has some real hangups on the subject of “sex,” but instead of taking an honest look on the matter we—as we do with most things—turned it into a joke. Thus is how we have ended up with the subgenre of the “sex comedy”—a wacky if not crude FOILMAN MORE THAN LAWMAN: JR Rodriguez plays corrupt Southern sheriff, Ed Earl Dodd, in Thalian kind of farce where the moral conundrum of Association’s ‘Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.’ Photo courtesy of Thalian Association getting laid is the overall point.

The latest staging of “The Best Little opened in La Grange, TX in 1844 and oper- a neat-looking detail, they are a tease to what Whorehouse in Texas,” offered from Thalian ated until 1973. Even with its salacious sto- could have been impressive. Instead, when Association, is directed by Mark Deese. ryline and real-world connections, the script the lights rise, the visuals on display are less The musical’s plot follows the day-to-day is rather paint-by-numbers. With jokes so than engaging. No real colors pop and while business of the famed Chicken Ranch. The simple, their setups are delivered as if they the set fills the stage, there just isn’t much to whorehouse is owned by the Madam Mona had been placed on a batting tee for the ac- look at within it. The Chicken Ranch lacks Stangley (Denise S. Bass), a matrilineal tors to easily hit them out into the audience. character, so it also loses any sense of hismomma bear who fearlessly defends her Sure, audiences will laugh but it has more tory. With the action being about saving the “girls.” Though, when the closed-minded to do with how comfortable they are with re- ranch, an opportunity is missed in showing off conservative televangelist Melvin P. Thrope cycled humor and less with how it’s being the women’s past connections and what they are fighting for exactly.

(Mike Thompson) sets his sights to close presented on stage. down the cesspool of sin, Mona will need the The production never finds a suitable pace That’s not to say everything falls flat; the help of her former lover Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd to run, from rushing through its first act to Melvin P. Thrope Watchdogs rig drops in from (J.R. Rodriquez) to try and save the historical painfully dragging out the second. More so, it above the stage and proves itself a cool sight. hot spot of Gilbert, TX. left me asking: Why can’t I see a single show Surrounded by flashing lights and massively The musical is based on the true story at Thalian Hall that doesn’t have microphone cut into the shape of Texas, it teases at what of the real Chicken Ranch brothel, which issues? I don’t know if it’s a budget issue could have been. or an equipment issue, but it needs to be Jen Iapalucci’s costume design serves the worked out. The mic situation was atrocious production well as usual. She has dressed during the show I attended; mics would not the ladies of the night in a sultry yet elegant come on when actors would speak or they manner. It clearly speaks to the classy way would drop in the middle of songs. It leads to the ladies of Chicken Ranch carry themmany missed moments. Now, I’m not blamselves. Iapalucci’s work on the Melvin P. ing “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” for this Thrope Watchdogs is truly inspired. Their hiccup; in fact, they overcame it as best they matching baby blue cowboy and cowgirl outcould. Still, shouldn’t this be an issue figured fits bring to mind the Hee-Haw by way of Jim out and resolved during mic checks? Tech Jones’ Peoples Temple. week? Any time before the show is in front The production’s choreography by Beth of an audience?

Swindell also leaves something to be deNow, what Thalian Association could have sired. Most of the time it reads chaotic and controlled is bringing this seedy world to life spastic; the Aggies number comes to mind in a more interesting way. The set doesn’t as a clear example. As well, the cast makes present much of anything that’s eye-catchup a mixed bag—some pulling the show ing—it is bland, including lighting, and leaves across the finish line and others just dragviewers wanting more. Upon entry, the audiging it down. Amy Carter, Jonathan Walence’s eyes will be drawn to three working lin and Sarah Holcomb absolutely shine on ceiling falls hanging above the set. Though

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Carter is hilarious as Shy, one of the newer girls to the house. She kills it with her facial expressions and creates a lot of subtle laughs all on her own.

When Wallin played the coach in Thalian Association’s last show, “Damn Yankees,” and had me rolling in the aisles. Here, as the scandal-ridden Senator, he had my side splitting. His fluster rage is gold.

Holcomb’s vocals wows yet again in “Twenty Four Hours of Lovin.” She serves as something of a den mother to Mona’s pack leader.

The “Doatsy Mae” will stun audiences with Shannon Profita’s enchanting voice. Profita plays a small-town waitress in Gilbert but manages to bring emotional depth.

Putting the “South” in a corrupt Southern sheriff is J.R. Rodriquez as Ed Earl Dodd.

Rodriquez does a solid job embodying a man with his better days past him; now, he just wants to coast the rest of the way in. He shapes Dodd as less a confident lawman and more a foil to every situation—simply looking for the path of least resistance and more often than not being the source of his own chagrin. It’s good work that could come off as a rather one-note tough guy, but Rodriguez gives it an oddball flavor.

That being said, Rodriguez and his lady costar Bass lack chemistry. If these two are meant to be past lovers, it’s easy to see why things didn’t work out between them. Their intimate moments are distant, even when they’re in each other’s arms.

Unfortunately, Bass’ Ms. Mona comes across rather disinterested, which makes for a boring madame. She rushes through some moments, in turn meaning missed dialogue and comedic beats. Her singing makes up for it mostly, but doesn’t save the lackluster lead.

While the production resembles a train wobbling on the tracks at times, the sold-out house certainly enjoyed themselves regardless. It’s summertime, a time for laughs and relaxation, a time to sit back, turn off the brain, and enjoy wacky hijinks; “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” will do just that for many.

DETAILS:

Best Little Whorehouse in Texas

May 17-26, Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. • Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St. Tickets: $16-$32 • thalianhall.org

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REEL TO REEL

ARTS>>FILM

A CREATIVE JOURNEY:

films this week CINEMATIQUE

‘Tolkien’ is a satisfying biopic

Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut Dr. Tickets: $8 • thalianhall.org May 22, 7 p.m., with additional showing at

BY: ANGHUS

“W

4 p.m. on Wednesday. “Gloria Bell” is a free-

hy do they keep making movies about writers?” a movieobsessed acquaintance asked last week. It was a question I had never considered, really. There have been plenty of movies about writers over the years—because writers can make fabulous protagonists. Stephen King has created a cottage industry of fictional stories about writers, like “The Shining,” “Misery” and “Secret Window.”

What my friend was referring to are the biopics of real-life authors. It seems like actors are chomping at the bit to play their favorite cunning linguists, portraying legendary writers like Hemingway, Hunter S. Thompson and Shakespeare, to name but a few.

The truth is, a biopic centered around real-life fiction authors always end up taking a similar creative journey. Mostly what you discover is the famous writer found inspiration for his most famous work (or works) through real-life events. That’s about it.

You might get some kernels of knowledge peppered throughout, but the main crux of these movies always seems to try and connect the real-life events to the inspirational fiction they created.

That’s pretty much all that “Tolkien,” the new origin story of famed “Lord of the Rings” author J.R.R. Tolkien. The framework for this movie is ridiculously simple. We meet young master Tolkien during the most tragic moments of his childhood. Without a father, in need of assistance from the church, young J.R.R. (Harry Gilby), his brother and his mother are forced to move to a new town. A kind man of the cloth helps the bright young lads get into a good school and give them tools to build a better life for themselves. The plan is surreptitiously decimated when Tolkien loses his mother and is forced to live in a boy’s home.

Tolkien’s mother was a massive influence in his life, inspiring him with stories of swords and sorcery. Her absence forms a vacuum, one he fills when he befriends three boys in school with similar ambitions—a “fellowship,” if you will. It was the “fellowship” that inspired “The Lord of the Rings.”

Clever, eh?

The story of Tolkien’s boyhood is intercut with moments from his young adulthood.

Post-pubescent Tolkien (Nicholas Hoult) is trying to find his way as a bright, extremely good-looking poor man in elitist turn-of-thecentury England.

spirited divorcée who spends her days at a straight-laced office job and her nights on the dance floor, joyfully letting loose at clubs around Los Angeles. After meeting Arnold (John Turturro) on a night out, she finds herself thrust into an unexpected new romance, filled with both the joys of budding love and the complications of dating, identity, and family.

ALL GROWN UP: Remember Nicholas Hoult from the 2002 Hugh Grant flick “About a Boy”? 2019 sees him all grown up and starring as J.R.R. Tolkien in the biopic about the writer’s inspiration for his fantasy novels, like “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.” Photo courtesy Fox Searchlight Pictures

He meets Edith (Lily Collins), another orphan at the group home, and is instantly smitten. The best scenes of the movie feature these two as they navigate the throbbing impulses of young love over some wonderful conversations about art and language.

There were moments where I wished the entire movie had been about these two. Their chemistry and charm could produce a smile on the most hardened curmudgeon. Unfortunately, “Tolkien” spends way too much cutting back and forth between periods of his life. There’s as much pointless time travel in Tolkien as “Avengers: Endgame.”

There’s a lot of time and care put into some framing sequences involving the World War I—beautifully filmed moments amongst some of the most horrific battlefields ever created, as Tolkien looks for one of his friends gone missing and believed to be dead. While this plot point makes the friendship flagships seem like a precursor for tragedy, it does help add weight and a sense of foreboding throughout the film. We’re getting to know the young men, and understand their passion for life could be snuffed out by a senseless, grotesque conflict.

There’s a lot to like about “Tolkien.” Fundamentally, the film leans heavily into weaving inspirations of his most famous literary works into the narrative. Huge fans of “The Hobbit” or “The Lord of the Rings” will see clearly peppered parallels everywhere. Anyone unfamiliar with the works of J.R.R. Tolkien might just think he or she is watching a very talky British film about love, friendship

and the lengths one person is willing to go in order to preserve them. In that respect, “Tolkien” is a film worth watching. Even without the cinematic devices used to link the author to the work, there’s a charming central story that feels exceptionally earnest.

DETAILS:

May 27-29, 7 p.m., with additional showing at 4 p.m. on Wednesday. “The Mustang” follows Roman (Matthias Schoenaerts), a convict in a rural Nevada prison who struggles to escape his violent past. He is required to participate in an “outdoor maintenance” program as part of his state-mandated social rehabilitation. Spotted by a no-nonsense veteran trainer

Tolkien

(Bruce Dern) and helped by an outgoing fellow inmate and trick rider (Jason Mitchell), Ro-

Rated PG-13 Directed by Dome Karukoski Starring Nicholas Hoult, Lily Collins, Colm Meaney

man is accepted into the selective wild horse training section of the program, where he finds his own humanity in gentling an especially unbreakable mustang.

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Heather O’Sullivan | Realtor | Network Real Estate | 804.514.3197 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 33

SOUTHEASTERN NC’S PREMIER DINING GUIDE

GRUB & GUZZLE

_

J. MICHAEL’S PHILLY DELI — Courtesy photo

BEST OF 2019 WINNER: CHEESESTEAK

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

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

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

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

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

34 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

ing, 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 11:3011:00 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ILM; kids menu HENRY’S A local favorite, Henry’s is the ‘place to be’ for great food, a lively bar and awesome patio dining. Henry’s serves up American cuisine at its finest that include entrees with fresh, local ingredients. Come early for lunch, because it’s going to be packed. Dinner too! Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.

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

Niche’s heated covered patio is perfect for anytime of the year and great for large parties. And their bar has a great assortment of wines, even offered half off by the glass on Tuesdays-Thursdays. Open Tues. - Sun. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling 910-399-4701.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: nichewilmington.com PINE VALLEY MARKET Pine Valley Market has reigned supreme in servicing the Wilmington community for years, securing encore’s Best-Of awards in catering, gourmet shop and butcher. Now, Kathy Webb and Christi Ferretti are expanding their talents into serving lunch in-house, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy 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 takehome frozen meals ■ WEBSITE: pinevalleymarket.com THE TROLLY STOP Trolly Stop Grill and Catering is a four store franchise in North Carolina. Trolly Stop Hotdogs opened in Wrightsville Beach in 1976.

That store name has never changed. Since the Wrightsville Beach store, the newer stores sell hotdogs, hamburgers, beef and chicken cheese steaks, fries, hand dipped ice cream, milk shakes, floats and more.

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

Check our website trollystophotdogs.com for hours of operations, specific store offer-

ings and telephone numbers, or contact Rick Coombs, 910-297-8416, rtrollystop@aol. com We offer catering serving 25-1000 people.

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

ASIAN CANDLE NUT RESTAURANT Candle Nut Restaurant makes all of its food from scratch using recipes passed down generations following Indonesian-Asian traditions. We use fresh turmeric, galangal, ginger, candle nuts, lemon grass and lime leaves to provide your meal with rich flavor.

Many of our famous signature dishes such as Beef Rendang, Sweet Soy Eggplant, Javanese Chicken Soup and Chili Sambals, are unique in flavor and found only at Candle Nut Restaurant. We also offer delicious Vegetarian and Vegan options. Check our website, Facebook and other social media sites. Located at 2101-1 Market Street, near Port City Java and Burnt Mill Creek Bar. For reservations, and take out: Phone: 910-399-2054 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues.-Thurs.

11am-3 pm, 5pm- 9 pm; Fri. & Sat. 11am10pm; Sun. 11am-9 pm. Closed Monday.

■ FEATURING: Try our lunch specials from 11am – 3 pm for $7.99. Tuesday & Wednesday unwind with our wine special for $4.00/ glass.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: candlenutrestaurant.com INDOCHINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Orient without having to leave Wilm-

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: indochinewilmington.com NIKKI’S FRESH GOURMET For more than a decade, Nikki’s downtown has served diners the best in sushi. With freshly crafted ingredients making up their rolls, sushi and sashimi, a taste of innovation comes with every order. Daily they offer specialty rolls specific to the Front Street location, such as the My Yoshi, K-Town and Crunchy Eel rolls. But for less adventurous diners looking for options beyond sushi, Nikki’s serves an array of sandwiches, wraps and gyros, too. They also make it a point to host all dietary needs, omnivores, carnivores and herbivores alike. They have burgers and cheesesteaks, as well as falafal pitas and veggie wraps, as well as an extensive Japanese fare menu, such as bento boxes and tempura platters. Daily dessert and drink special are also on order. Check out their website and Facebook for more information.

16 S. Front St. (910) 771-9151.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: nikkissushibar.com OKAMI JAPANESE HIBACHI STEAK HOUSE We have reinvented “Hibachi cuisine.”

Okami Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse is like no other. Our highly skilled chefs cook an incredible dinner while entertaining you on the way. Our portions are large, our drinks are less expensive, and our staff is loads of fun. We are committed to using quality ingredients and seasoning with guaranteed freshness. Our goal is to utilize all resources, domestically and internationally, to ensure we serve only the finest food products. We believe good, healthy food aids vital functions for well-being, both physically and mentally. Our menu consists of a wide range of steak, seafood, and chicken for the specially designed “Teppan Grill.”

We also serve tastebud-tingling Japanese sushi, hand rolls, sashimi, tempura dishes, and noodle entrees. This offers our guests a complete Japanese dining experience. Our all-you-can-eat sushie menu and daily specials can be found at okamisteakhouse.com! 614 S College Rd. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.Thurs., 11am-2:30pm / 4-10pm; Fri., 11am2:30pm / 4pm-11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am-9:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: 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.

We have issues....

get them every Wednesday

encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 35

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Lunch specials ■ WEBSITE: szechuan132.com YOSAKE DOWNTOWN SUSHI LOUNGE Lively atmosphere in a modern setting, Yosake is the delicious Downtown spot for date night, socializing with friends, or any large dinner party. Home to the never-disappointing Shanghai Firecracker Shrimp! In addition to sushi, we offer a full Pan Asian menu including curries, noodle dishes, and the everpopular Crispy Salmon or mouth-watering Kobe Burger. Inspired features change weekly showcasing our commitment to local farms. Full bar including a comprehensive sake list, signature cocktails, and Asian Import Bottles. 33 S. Front St., 2nd Floor (910) 763-3172.

■ SERVING DINNER: 7 nights a week, 5pm; Sun-Wed. ‘til 10pm, Thurs ‘til 11pm, Fri-Sat ‘til Midnight.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ 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. GlutenFree Menu upon request. Complimentary Birthday Dessert.

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

YOSHI Yoshi Sushi Bar and Japanese Cuisine offers something the greater Wilmington area has never seen before. We are seeking to bring true New York Style Sushi to Wilmington, with classic sushi and sashimi, as well as traditional rolls and some unique Yoshi Creations. We offer a variety of items, including Poke Bowls and Hibachi - and we also are introducing true Japanese Ramen Bowls!

Come try it today! 260 Racine Dr, Wilmington 28403 (910)799-6799 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. 12pm11pm, Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am11pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.com

BAGELS ROUND BAGELS AND DONUT Round Bagels and Donuts features 17 varieties of New York-style bagels, baked fresh daily on site in a steam bagel oven.

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

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

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

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

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

FONDUE

Tr ue N ew Yor k S ty le Sushi in Wilmingt on

• Classic sushi • Sashimi • Traditional rolls • Unique Yoshi creations • Poke bowls • Hibachi • True Japanese ramen bowls Happy Hour: Sunday-Thursday 4-6pm Featuring discounted appetizers and select sushi rolls!

Regularly priced menu items only

260 Racine Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 799-6799 Hours: Mon. - Sat. 11am - 10pm • Sunday 12pm - 10pm 36 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

THE LITTLE DIPPER Wilmington’s favorite fondue restaurant!

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

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

IRISH THE HARP Experience the finest traditional Irish family recipes and popular favorites served in a ca-

sual 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) 7631607. 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: harpwilmington.com SLAINTE IRISH PUB Slainte Irish Pub in Monkey Junction has traditional pub fare with an Irish flair. We have a large selection of Irish whiskey, and over 23 different beers on draft, and 40 different craft beers in bottles. They have a large well lit outdoor patio with a full bar also. Come have some fun! They currently do not take reserva-

tions, but promise to take care of you when you get here! 5607 Carolina Beach Rd. #100, (910) 399-3980 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 11:30 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington, Monkey Junction ■ FEATURING: Irish grub, whiskeys, beer, wine, fun.

■ WEBSITE: facebook.com/slaintemj

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

(Sun., open at 11:30 a.m.)

■ NEIGHBORHOOD DELIVERY OFFERED: Monkey Junction and near Independence Mall ■ WEBSITE: antoniospizzaandpasta.com

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

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

Their warm, inviting, atmosphere is perfect for “date night” or “family night.” Let them show you why “fresh, homemade and local” is part of everything they do. 8211 Market St. (910) 686-7774 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.9:30 p.m., Sun.brunch, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck ■ WEBSITE: italianbistronc.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/week, 365 days/year.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Downtown and Wilmington South.

■ FEATURING: Largest tequila selection in town!

■ WEBSITE: grabslice.com

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

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

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most apps.

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

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

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

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck, North

and South Wilmington, ■ WEBSITE: https://phillydeli.com

SEAFOOD CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY Founded in 2008 by Evans and Nikki Trawick, Cape Fear Seafood Company has become a local hotspot for the freshest, tastiest seafood in the area. With it’s growing popularity, the restaurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to locations in Porters Neck and Waterford in Leland. “We are a dedicated group of individuals working together as a team to serve spectacular food, wine and spirits in a relaxed and casual setting,” restaurateur Evans Trawick says. “At CFSC every dish is prepared with attention to detail, quality ingredients and excellent flavors. Our staff strives to accommodate guests with a sense of urgency and an abundance of southern hospitality.” Cape Fear Seafood Company has been recognized by encore magazine for best seafood in 2015, as well as by Wilmington Magazine in 2015 and 2016, and Star News from 2013 through 2016. Monkey Junction: 5226 S. College Road Suite 5, 910-799-7077.

Porter’s Neck: 140 Hays Lane #140, 910-6811140. Waterford: 143 Poole Rd., Leland, NC 28451 ■ SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER: 11:30am4pm daily; Mon.-Thurs.., 4pm-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 4pm-10pm; Sun., 4pm-8:30pm.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, north Wilm- ■ FEATURING: Fresh daily steamed oysters. ington and Leland ■ WEBSITE: dockstreetoysterbar.net ■ WESBITE: capefearseafoodcompany.com MICHAEL’S SEAFOOD’S RESTAUCATCH RANT Serving the Best Seafood in South Eastern Established in 1998, Michael’s Seafood ResNorth Carolina. Wilmington’s Native Son, taurant is locally owned and operated by 2011 James Beard Award Nominee, 2013 Shelly McGowan and managed by her team Best of Wilmington “Best Chef” winner, Chef of culinary professionals. Michael’s aspires Keith Rhodes explores the Cape Fear Coast to bring you the highest quality and freshest for the best it has to offer. We feature Wild fin fish, shell fish, mollusks, beef, pork, poultry Caught & Sustainably raised Seafood. Organ- and produce. Our menu consists of mainly loic and locally sourced produce & herbs provide cally grown and made from scratch items. We the perfect compliment to our fresh Catch. count on our local fishermen and farmers to Consecutively Voted Wilmington’s Best Chef supply us with seasonal, North Carolina fa2008, 09 & 2010. Dubbed “Modern Seafood vorites on a daily basis. Adorned walls include Cuisine” we offer an array Fresh Seafood & awards such as 3 time gold medalist at the Steaks, including our Signature NC Sweet International Seafood Chowder Cook-Off, EnPotato Salad. Appetizers include our Mouth trepreneur of the Year, Restaurant of the Year watering “Fire Cracker” Shrimp, Crispy Cajun and Encores readers’ choice in Best Seafood Fried NC Oysters & Blue Crab Claw Scampi, to name a few. 1206 N. Lake Park Blvd. (910) & Seafood Ceviche to name a few. Larger 458-7761 Plates include, Charleston Crab Cakes, Floun- ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days 11 der Escovitch & Miso Salmon. Custom Entree am – 9 pm request gladly accommodated for our Guest. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach (Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergies) Hand-crafted ■ FEATURING: Award-winning chowder, local seasonal desserts. Full ABC Permits. 6623 seafood and more!

Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28405, 910■ WEBSITE: MikesCfood.com 799-3847.

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

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

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

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

Choose from a selection of seafood platters, combination plates and daily fresh fish. For land lovers, try their steaks, chicken or pasta dishes. Relax on the pier or dine inside. Oceanic is also the perfect location for memorable events, such as wedding ceremonies & receptions, birthday gatherings, anniversary parties and more. Large groups welcome. Private event space available. 703 S. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach. (910) 256.5551.

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

■ WEBSITE: OceanicRestaurant.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) 7622827.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week.

THE PILOT HOUSE ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown

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

16 Cold Draft Beers

38 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

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 newlyrenovated relaxed, casual setting inside or on one of our two outdoor decks. Join us for $5.00 select appetizers 7 days a week and live music every Friday and Saturday nigh on our umbrella deck. Large parties welcome.

Private event space available. 910-343-0200 2 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. Kids menu ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Riverfront Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Fresh local seafood specialties, Riverfront Dining, free on-site parking ■ MUSIC: Outside Every Friday and Saturday ■ WEBSITE: pilothouserest.com SHUCKIN’ SHACK Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar has two locations in the Port City area. The original Shack is located in Carolina Beach at 6A N. Lake Park Blvd. (910-458-7380) and our second location is at 109 Market Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington (910-833-8622). The Shack is the place you want to be to catch your favorite sports team on 7 TV’s carrying all major sports packages. A variety of fresh seafood is available daily including oysters, shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab legs. Shuckin’ Shack has expanded its menu now offering fish tacos, crab cake sliders, fried oyster po-boys, fresh salads, and more.

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: TheShuckinShack.com

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

beans, chicken‘n’dumplings, biscuits and homemade banana puddin’ are among a few of many other delectable items. 5559 Oleander Drive. (910) 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: caseysbuffet.com RX RESTAURANT & BAR Located in downtown Wilmington, Rx Restaurant and Bar is here to feed your soul, serving up Southern cuisine made with ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. The Rx chef is committed to bringing fresh food to your table, so the menu changes daily based on what he finds locally. Rx drinks are as unique as the food—and just what the doctor ordered. Join us for a dining experience you will never forget! 421 Castle St.; 910 399-3080.

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

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

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: CarolinaAleHouse.com

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

■ SERVING DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Mon., Closed; Tues.-Thurs., 4 p.m. - 12 a.m.; Fri., 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sun., 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.

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

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40 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

GRUB & GUZZLE>>REVIEW

TAKE ANOTHER LITTLE PIZZA MY HEART: Agostino’s slings eccentric pies and Italian classics

D

amount, but they were jumbo and fresh.

The overall meal was plenty of bang for my buck. The sauce had some smaller chunks of tomato—which I adored—but was lacking the pink hue of traditional vodka sauce.

To me, one must be liberal with the cream and Parmesan.

BY: ROSA BIANCA

ear drive-thru pizza, where have you been all my life? OK—so I didn’t actually partake in Agostino’s pickup window for my review, but I do dig the fact they have a drive-thru.

Sometimes, a portable pepperoni slice that doesn’t even require getting out of the car is necessary. I get it.

I would have liked to see a few more fresh touches, like parsley on the piccata, or big leaves of fragrant basil in the vodka sauce. All in all, both noodles were perfectly cooked, though, and definitely a good deal for the prices.

What’s that? Don’t know about Agostino’s? Welp, look no further than the newish strip of eateries in New Centre Commons (a stone’s throw from Target), I highly suggest a visit. For all things barbecue and beer, Skytown is there to satisfy all smoky needs. For fresh Japanese fare, there’s Mizuki. And when the marinara mood hits right, there’s no denying the carby creations at Agostino’s Pizza & Pasta.

While there’s no shortage of quality Italian bistros in the Wilmington area, one more can’t hurt—especially when the owners have northern roots. People may think New York is the only mecca for prime pizza, but those people haven’t been to New Jersey. After over a decade of owning Frank’s Pizza in East Brunswick, New Jersey, Shari and Tony Agostino packed up their pepperonis to head for Wilmington.

Agostino’s is the “greatest hits” album of their former spot, and it boasts quite the collection of classic dishes and pizzas, decorated with everything from tortellini to tacos. The clean, fast-casual dining room is brimming with natural light and is ideal for a quick lunch. I wouldn’t call it cozy, necessarily, but I wouldn’t discount Agostino’s for dinner. The menu is plenty lengthy, and there are a few wine and beer options for those looking to kick back, order an app and stay a while. The servers are also friendly and knowledgeable.

Now let’s get into the pizza.

PICCATA ON POINT: Rosa loves Agostino’s chicken piccata—made of juicy breaded chicken, lemon, white wine, butter, and capers. Photo by Shannon Rae Gentry

enough inspired topping combos.

I read numerous positive reviews of the chicken, bacon and ranch (and the cashier assured me it was a hit item), but I’m a sucker for a white pie. She also noted the meat lovers was a popular choice, so I dabbled in both ends of the veg and verynon-veg spectrum. The white came either plain, with spinach or tomatoes. There was nearly an entire bag of greens on the spinach option, so I thought that would make me feel better when I looked down and realized I was wearing workout clothes and holding two enormous slices of pizza. (It didn’t, but YOLO.) My teeth sunk into a silky sphere of ricotta and I was immediately hit with gentle notes of garlic. The sharp, stringy cheese balanced the smooth, almost-whipped ricotta, and the spinach was earthy and tender. The toppings were simple and delicious, and the crust was top-notch.

Online, people seemed to consistently identify Agostino’s as having thin, New York-style crust—but I felt it was on the thicker side ... in a good way. The toppings on both slices (particularly the generous pools of ricotta on the white pie) were so abundant, I thought the crust might be soggy. The bottom layer was expertly crisp, and the secret layer between that and the top of the pizza was fluffy with-

out being doughy. Thin enough to fold?

Yes. An excellent contrast of textures?

Also, yes. The meat lovers was straight from carnivore heaven: overcrowded (in the best way) with smoky bacon, shaved ham, pepperoni and savory sausage. It was sinful, rich and salty.

The vast variety of hot and cold subs caught my eye, and the cashier mentioned the cheesesteak right off the bat. Sold. Despite being a Southern coastal town, Wilmington has a handful of eateries who rock one hell of a version of the Philly staple.

Agostino’s serves up a solid number, loaded with mushrooms, peppers and onions.

Snuggled inside of their poofy French roll was paper-thin, griddle-chopped steak, cheese and veggies—a traditional sandwich done well. Fairly average fries came alongside, but I would have preferred about 12 more pieces of garlic bread.

The side Caesar salad was the biggest miss of the meal for me. I’m a double dressing lover, but the romaine was practiAgostino’s in a nutshell? Simple, Italian cally wilted and the dressing tasted like it was from a Sysco tub. Classic Caesar is classics at a great price. I can get down such a cinch to make, and I always give with that. props to restaurants who take the few additional steps to go homemade—because, well, go homemade or don’t go at all.

Agostino’s

DETAILS:

Just before the meat sweats com- 4712 New Centre Dr., Unit 107 menced, I jumped on two of the other af- Mon.-Wed., 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. fordable lunch selections. Chicken piccata, pasta, and garlic bread for $8? Don’t mind Thurs. - Sun., 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. if I do. I can’t imagine what the dinner-size Sun., noon - 9 p.m. portion looks like (maybe double chick- (910) 769-1282 en?), as the lunch serving was more than agostinospizzapasta.com enough. The chicken breast was flattened and juicy, and the sauce was a simple medley of white wine, lemon, butter and capers. The linguine was al dente and soaked in every drop of citrusy sauce.

The penne vodka was of equal size.

With no protein, it started at $7, but I added shrimp for an additional $5. There were about four, which may seem like a small

! s l a de .com

One of Agostino’s meal steals is two specialty slices and a drink for $6. The magnitude of the human-sized triangles easily calculates into four slices of pizza.

The display cases are brimming with colorful, inventive pies. I had my heart set on a slice of the Caesar (which basically is a pie with a salad on top), but I would have had to order an entire small pie. For by-the-slice, what you see is what you get that day—and there are more than

Instead of going for the full spaghetti and meatballs, I opted to taste the meatballs as a side. I heard they were a handed-down family recipe, and they tasted as such: very moist, straightforward in flavor, and bobbing in a sweet red sauce. On the side: a soft, open-faced baguette speckled with heaps of chopped garlic and butter.

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EXTRA>>BOOKS

CARPE LIBRUM:

Seize the book, not the TV, and apply the lessons to real life BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER

W For audition information visit http://www.capefearchorale.org /audition/audition.html

or email director@capefearchorale.org for more information.

501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization Capefearchorale.org

ilmington’s literary community keeps gaining accolades (two National Book Awards nominees in 2015) and attention in the press. With multiple established publishers in the state (Algonquin, Blair) and new smaller presses gaining traction (Eno, Bull City), it is timely to shine a light on discussions around literature, publishing and the importance of communicating a truthful story in our present world.

Carpe Librum is encore’s biweekly book column that dissects a current title or maybe even an old book—because literature does not exist in a vacuum but emerges to participate in a larger, cultural conversation. We feature many NC writers; however, the hope is to place the discussion in a larger context and therefore examine works around the world.

But this installment of Carpe Librum is taking a bit of a departure. Right now I feel a need to talk about something other than a particular book or a specific writer.

I ask, dear reader: Why are we bothering to read at all? Why do writers continue to write? Is there any point? I ask because the culture of distraction and the disconnect between what we learn and what we do is causing me great distress.

In theory we learn about history because if we fail to do so, we will repeat the mistakes our forebearers made. In theory we read fiction because, through the lens of fictional characters, we have the opportunity to explore the possible outcomes of choices we make and therefore learn from characters’ mistakes before we make the same mistakes in real life. Books, either nonfiction or fiction, give us an opportunity to observe, analyze, apply data and theory, and test hypotheses without having to commit to a life-altering reality.

Yet, here we are.

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216 Princess Street | Downtown, Wilmington NC | www.BlokeApparel.com | (910) 679-4137 42 encore | may 22 - may 28, 2019 | www.encorepub.co

Guttenberg invented the movable type press and printed the Guttenberg Bible in 1455. For over 560 years, we have had replicable manuscripts available in the western world. Instead of a scribe laboriously hand-copying a manuscript, we are able to print multiple copies and distribute information and ideas. And we are squandering it. We completely fail to apply the lessons we learn to our lives and to the betterment of the world in which we live.

Since the dawn of speculative fiction, writers have explored the possibility of what would happen if the masses stopped paying attention to the decisions made about their daily lives. In “Brave New World,” Huxley proposed a drug that essentially distracts people from caring as long as their hedonistic desires are sated. In “1984” Orwell hypothesized a level of government oversight through screens that create paranoia and paralysis. In “Fahrenheit 451” Bradbury envisioned a world where the distraction of screens replaced the substance of books.

In “The Handmaid’s Tale” Margaret Atwood explored the pendulum swing to the hard right—where women are prevented from any dominion over their own bodies.

Their sexual partners would be chosen for them, and they would be forced to bear children for whom they were incapable of caring.

For me “Game of Thrones” has become synonymous with the convergence of these four books. More people in America can converse in depth about “Game of Thrones” than can adequately answer questions about our country’s available prenatal care and costs. More people are upset about the eighth season of “Game of Thrones” than can articulate the differences in the rights and privileges men and women have over their own bodies in the Land of the Free. The culture of distraction from screens is hindering our ability to apply lessons we are supposed to be learning.

When you watch “Game of Thrones” (or read the books!), what do you learn about power? About the consolidation of power? About the crazy lone hermit on the fringe with his own power carved out?

What do you learn about what happens when people turn a blind eye and put a sadist in power? When good people are discredited by manipulation? About substance versus appearance?

I am not trying to be rude, but they are basics—lessons fairy tales try to teach children. Those tales were not intended as entertainment only, but as cautionary tales about humanity—people in groups, greed and living with the ramifications of actions.

Don’t get me wrong: By all means get excited about “Game of Thrones.” It is an incredible compliment to the artists that people respond to their work with such passion. Yet, please, take a moment and apply the same scrutiny and intensity to the world in which we actually live. There are villains here, too. They look extremely enticing, and are just as slick and charming. It is imperative that the slightly flawed and ultimately human “good guys” redeem themselves by taking on bad guys seeping through their real lives. Only, instead of a sword or a dragon, the battle requires paying attention and talking back to power—refusing to back down when it get ugly.

The battles, the fights, the wars—they are longer and more insidious. The stories tell us so; go back and read them.

The message is there, but the real question is, why do we think it doesn’t apply to us?

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HAPPENINGS & EVENTS ACROSS WILMINGTON

TO-DO CALENDAR

events

ORANGE STREET ARTS FEST May 24-26,10am: 24th Annual Orange Street ArtsFest takes place between Front and 3rd Streets adjacent to the Community Arts Center in downtown Wilmington, NC. The event is the largest arts festival in the Port City and features more than 80 artists and $550 in prize money. The event also includes live entertainment and a variety of food, plus hourly music, dance and theater performances. Saturday, 10am to 6pm; Sunday, 10am to 5pm.

www.thalian.org, (910) 251-1788. Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St.

N. 4TH NEIGHBORHOOD SOUL PARTY May 24, 7pm: Curtis T Clydesdale takes you back to simpler days like ”Willie and Laura Mae Jones.” Come on out to see “What’s Going On” and “Let’s Get it On.” Palate, 1007 N 4th St. ILM DIGITAL MARKETING CONFERENCE June 5-6: Hear from some of the most audacious and thought provoking speakers in the digital marketing industry. Gain insight into emerging strategies, the latest

ington-digital-marketing-conference-2019. innovative technologies, and best practiceventbrite.com. es to move your business to the next level.

Online event being streamed live and also FISH SMART CELEBRATION available on demand. It’s the one digital Sunday, May 26, 1-5pm at Northern Remarketing event for marketing professiongional Park in Castle Hayne to celebrate als in Wilmington you can’t afford to miss. healthy fish consumption at our Fish Smart Whatever your goal is; reinforcing cusCelebration! The Memorial Day weekend tomer loyalty, improving lead generation, celebration will include music, vendors, increasing sales, or driving stronger conhealth information, and free giveaways sumer engagement, the Wilmington Digital while supplies last. Fresh fish meals will be Marketing Conference line up has been offered by Chef Keith Rhodes with Catch the specifically designed to help you develop Food Truck; and Chef Dean Neff of Pinpoint your audience. Secure your seat now and Restaurant will demonstrate healthy ways to take advantage of our discounted super prepare fish at home for you and your family. early bird registration rates. https://wilmThis will be a bilingual event with materials in Spanish and a translator on site. Northern Regional Park, 4700 Old Ave.

charity/fundraisers NEW VOLUNTEER OPEN HOUSE May 24, noon: Looking for volunteer opportunities? The Bellamy Mansion Museum is looking for docents. If you want to be part of our team and give tours please join us on Friday, May 24 at noon – 503 Market Street –to hear from our current volunteers and see how you can get involved.

For more information, please call Carolyn at (910) 251-3700 x306. Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St.

music OPEN-MIC AT TIDAL CREEK Comedians, singers, songwriters, poets, yodelers! Come out the co-op on Wednesday night & show us what you got! Free coffee SUNSET MUSIC CRUISE Fri., 6:30pm: Looking for something different to do? Look no further! Come aboard The Wilmington, our comfortable catamaran, for a fun cruise down the Cape Fear River as we cruise into the sunset. Grab a tasty cocktail or drink from our full bar and sit back and relax as you listen to live music from local musicians. This is a one-ofa-kind music venue in Wilmington and this cruise is one of our most popular excursions, so be sure to book early! Wilmington Water Tours, 212 Water St. KURE BEACH BOOGIE IN THE PARK Every 1st & 3rd Sunday, through Oct 20, 5pm-7pm, skips Labor Day weekend. A free concert series at Kure Beach’s Ocean Front Park. Bring your beach chair or blanket, friends, family, and neighbors and enjoy the music! May 5, 5pm-7pm, will be featuring the Wilmington Big Band bringing timeless standards and hip pop music!

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Thanks for voting for us for Best Tour of Wilmington Sunset Cruise with LIVE Music

Thursday, Friday, Saturday & NOW Sundays Boarding @ 6;30pm • Departs @ 7pm

June Upcoming Cruises June 2nd @ 9am - $50: Civil War Cruise w/ Dr. Chris Fonveille June 16th @ 1:30pm - $29: Father’s Day Hot Dog Cruise

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

Follow us

BAR ON BOARD WITH ALL ABC PERMITS

Complete Schedule: wilmingtonwatertours.net

Bizzy Bee Water Taxi Running Daily 10-5pm Smooth shuttle to the Battlehip & back or leave your car at Battleship Park and avoid the parking hassle in Wilmington.

Cruise over to the Battleship to view the SECU Memorial Walkway

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Purchase your Boogie in the Park gear at the link provided. https://shop.spreadshirt.com/tokb. Ocean Front Park, 105 Atlantic Ave. LIVE ON THE LOOP! Live On The Loop is back for our 2019 Season! Beginning on May 2nd, enjoy live music with us every Thursday from 6-9pm at The Sailfish! Experience some of Wilmington’s best local artists with drink specials and delicious food options! 5/23 - Signal Fire Acoustic; 5/30 - Jayke Steel; 6/6 - Randy McQuay; 6/13 - Striking Copper; 6/20 - Exacta Duo; 6/27 - Elliott Smith; 7/11 - L-Shape Lot; 7/18 - Two Picky Guys; 7/25 - Folkstone Stringband; 8/1 - Selah Dubb; 8/8 - Justin Cody Foxx; 8/15 - Dos Eddies; 8/22 - Crystal Fussell; 8/29 - Desperado Duo; 9/5 - Access 29; 9/12 - Cross Creek Band; 9/19 - The Casserole; 9/26 - Signal Fire Acoustic. The Sailfish, 2570 Scotts Hill Loop Rd. CAM SERIES! May 23, 6:30pm: “Landscapes: 20th Century Masterpieces for Flute and Piano” — Pianist Domonique Launey and flutist Amanda Hoke play masterpieces from the 20th and 21st centuries. Works by Barber, Debussy, Uebayashi, Rachmaninoff, and Copland offer a broad landscape of lyricism that evoke brilliant imagery. Purchase seats on CAM’s website, by phone and at CAM’s Visitor Services desk. Concert proceeds benefit NourishNC and Cameron Art Museum. Weyerhaeuser Reception Hall.

CAM Members and students with valid college ID: $12, Non-Members: $17. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St. GIRLS CHOIR OF WILMINGTON May 23, 7:30pm: The Girls’ Choir of Wilmington’s spring concert “How Can We Keep From Singing?” will be given Thursday, May 23, 7:30 pm, at St. Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church on S. College Road across from UNCW. Directed

by Sandy Errante and accompanied by Steven Errante, the 60-member choir will sing music of Paul Halley, Eric Whitacre, Paul McCartney (“Blackbird”) and include many familiar favorites (“Turn, Turn, Turn,” “We Rise Again in the Voices of Our Children”). The concert is free to concertgoers of all ages. The girls will be leaving for Charleston, SC the next day to appear as part of the Piccolo Spoleto Festival, https://www.facebook.com/ events/773695869696977. St. Matthews Evangelical Lutheran Church, 612 S College Rd. JAZZ GALA 2019 May 24, 6pm: Spend an evening with the Jazz Cats! Concert, dinner, auction, raffle, cash bar. All proceeds go towards purchasing instruments for the NHHS Bands.

Purchase $35 tickets online at nhhsband. org. If you can’t attend, help promote and we can still take donations. We’re looking for sponsors too so hit us up! Coastline Conference Center, 501 Nutt St.

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film FROM DREAM TO DISCOVERY: INSIDE NASA Saturday, May 25, 2pm. Planetarium film.

When humans dare to dream, we create truly amazing things! Fulldome film from Museum of Science, Boston. (approx. 30 min.). Free. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St. THE RACK PACK May 26, 8pm: The Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Carolina Beach is proud to sponsor the world premiere screening of the locally filmed and produced “The Rack Pack.” Join us on Sunday evening, May 26th, at the Carolina Beach Lake Park at dusk (about 8pm) to meet executive producer, David Schiffer and other cast members to discuss the making of this unique family-oriented film.

Concessions are available on site and we will have a raffle for various movie ‘swag.”

Bring your own chairs or blankets. No alcohol or glass are allowed. Carolina Beach Lake Park, S. Lake Park Blvd.

theatre/auditions SHAKESPEARE BRUNCH TheatreNOW hosts monthly Shakespeare brunch, abridged readings of one of the Bard’s classic plays. Reserved seating. Doors open at 11:30am. $5 of every

ticket sold will go to a local Shakespeare educational outreach program. Brunch & dessert with choice of entrée included in ticket. June 16: “Hamlet”; June 21: “Midsummer Night’s Dream”; Aug. 18: “Romeo & Juliet”; Sept. 22: “Two Gentleman of Verona”; Oct. 27: “Richard III”; Nov. 17: “Winter’s Tale.” TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th St. THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS Through May 26, Fri.-Sat., 7:30pm, & Sun., 3pm. Book by Larry L.King & Peter Masterson; music and lyrics by Carol Hall; based on a story by Larry L. King. Get ready for darn tootin’ good time with the ladies of the Chicken Ranch! Protected by a friendly sheriff and frequented by politicians, the “Chicken Ranch” thrived in the small town of Gilbert, Texas. However, a crusading do-gooder Houston radio commentator and his conservative audience expose the cathouse, forcing it to shut its doors forever. Main Stage Thalian Hall, 301 Chestnut St. KINKY BOOTS May 22, 7:30pm: Broadway’s big-hearted hit is back by popular demand! With songs by Grammy® and Tony® winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. Inspired by true events, Kinky Boots takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks

of Milan. Charlie Price is struggling to live es. Larger than life sculptures surround up to his father’s expectations and conthese miniature dioramas. www.Chelseatinue the family business of Price & Son. LeaMetals.com. 721 Surry St. With the factory’s future hanging in the BRAYERS, BRUSHES & COLOR PENCILS balance, help arrives in the unlikely but New exhibit of printmaking and drawspectacular form of Lola, a fabulous perings by artist David Norris, presented by former in need of some sturdy new stiletArt in Bloom in partnership with Checker tos. With direction and choreography by Cab productions at Platypus and Gnome. two-time Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell David (BFA from ECUs’ School of Art) has (Legally Blonde, Hairspray) and a book begun a series of monoprints that comby Broadway legend and four-time Tony bine printing techniques with color pencils Award-winner Harvey Fierstein (La Cage and lithograph crayons. They build on and Aux Folles), Kinky Boots is the winner of compliment a long-standing series of resix Tony Awards including Best Musical, gional cityscapes and landscapes done in Best Score and Best Choreography. Wilwatercolor and color pencil. He also works son Center, 703 N. 3rd St. in other media ranging from black and HOW I LEARNED WHAT I LEARNED white pen drawings to silverpoint, scrimMay 22-26, May-30-June 2, & 6-9, 8pm, shaw, linoleum block prints, collage. 910Thursday-Saturday; 3pm Sundays. From 769-9300 for dinner reservations. Platypus Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August & Gnome, 9 S. Front St. Wilson comes a one-man show that chronUNCW SENIOR ART EXHIBITION icles his life as a Black artist in the Hill Twenty-five students graduating with a District in Pittsburgh. From stories about bachelor’s degree in Studio Art present his first jobs to his first loves and his extheir final work at the University of North periences with racism, Wilson recounts his Carolina Wilmington’s CAB Gallery. Adlife from his roots to the completion of The mission and refreshments are free and American Century Cycle. “How I Learned open to the public. The student-named What I Learned” gives an inside look into exhibition includes drawing, printmaking, one of the most celebrated playwriting photography, painting, sculpture, interacvoices of the twentieth century. Perfortive, digital works and installation. Exhibimance dates: Tickets are $18 Thursdays, tion will be on view until May 10. CAB Gal$22 seniors/students/military, $25 general lery, Monday-Thursday, 10am-4pm, and admission and can be purchased by callFriday 12-4pm. Both CAB and Mezzanine ing 910-367-5237 or visiting www.bigdawgalleries are free and open to the public. gproductions.org. Cape Fear Playhouse, Corinne Lefebvre, cabartgallery@uncw.

613 Castle St. edu. Cultural Arts Building, 5270 Randall THIS HURRICANE BLOWS: Pkwy.

A CAT 5 COMEDY EPHEMERIDES May 24-June 29, 2019, Fri &Sat at 7pm.

Heather Divoky’s work is at 24 South CofWritten by Celia Rivenbark and Kevin Parkfeehouse through May 31. The show is er and directed by James Bowling. Dinner titled ‘Ephemerides’ and will feature all and show, $48 ($10 off opening weekend); new work in marker, ink, and wire. Divoky’s show only tickets, $22-$27. The South’s newest body of work is an exploration besassiest playwright and her hilarious muse tween the scientific and the fantastical. are back with this original, timely show Astrology and astronomy were once two about a Southern couple with Northern sides of the same coin. Heather’s work neighbors that must endure an insanely tries to bring them back together. Ephelong hurricane together. theatrewilmingmerides were books used to track celestial ton.com. TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th St. bodies in both disciplines. By focusing on the 12 Zodiacs, Heather offers a perspective on what the signs really mean—if they really mean anything at all. 24 South Coffee House, 24 S Front St. MEET LOCAL ARTISTS BIRDS OF A FEATHER Meet working artists, and see works in Through June 9: Art at the Bellamy Manprogress. Everything from sculptures to sion Museum featuring original photografine jewelry in this unique location. Free phy by Jeffrey P Karnes. There will be an parking, fun for everyone. Over 45 artist’s artist’s reception on Friday, May 24 from works to enjoy. Free, and we participate 6:00 to 8pm. Light refreshments will be in the 4th Friday Art Walks, 6-9pm, 4th Fri. available. Carolyn Gonzalez at 910-251ea. mo. theArtWorks, 200 Willard St. 3700 x306 or cgonzalez@bellamymansion.

FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT org. Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St. Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, Wilmington’s FREE ART DEMO premier after-hours celebration of art and Pop-up art exhibit with David A. Norris, culture, 6-9pm, fourth Fri. ea. month. Art whoselatest series combines monoprintopenings, artist demonstrations, entering techniques along with colored pencils tainment and refreshments. Administered and lithograph crayons. In addition to the by the Arts Council of Wilmington & New work displayed at Art in Bloom Gallery, Hanover County, numerous venues particiDavid’s current exhibit, “Brayers, Brushes, pate. Full list: artscouncilofwilmington.org and Color Pencils by David Norris,” is on TINY WORLDS display at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant Chelsea Lea’s “Tiny Worlds” on display at through June 3. Norris will have an artist Waterline Brewery. Body of work explores demo and talk. David recently has created imaginary places made inside cigar boxa series of monoprints that combine print-

ing techniques with color pencils and lithograph crayons. They build on and complement a long-standing series of regional cityscapes and landscapes done in watercolor and color pencil. He also works in other media ranging from black and white pen drawings to silver point, scrimshaw, linoleum block prints, and collage. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St. FLEUR ESSENCE May 24, 6pm: Diverse Works, a Wilmington art group, presents Fleur Essence, a celebration of spring at ACME Art Studios on Fourth Friday Gallery Walk, May 24 from 6 - 9 pm at 711 N 5th Ave downtown Wilmington NC. Join us for the show opening to experience the art and meet the artists.

Show continues through June 17 and is available through the artists upon request.

For information on artists and their works -https://www.diverseworksilm.com. ACME Art Studios, 711 N. 5th St.

dance CAPE FEAR CONTRA DANCERS Come on out for two hours of energetic, contemporary American country dancing with live music. Dress cool & comfortable, soft-soled shoes. All ages. 2nd/4th Tues, 7:30pm. United Methodist, 409 S. 5th Ave. BABS MCDANCE Group classes for all levels are designed for beginner, intermediate, and advanced dancers! We will begin the class with the

basics and instruct you through a few exciting dance moves! Mon., 7pm: International Rumba Class • Mon., 8pm: Argentine Tango • Tues., 7pm, West Coast Swing; 8pm, East Coast Swing. • Wed., 7pm, Bachata; 8pm, Hustle • Thurs., 7pm: Shag Level 1; 8pm, Shag Levels 2 and 3.

All classes are $10 per person, $15 per couple, $5 for military/students with ID. $5. Babs McDance Social Dance Club & Ballroom, 6782 Market St. CONTRA DANCE Join us for our Tuesday night dance. Community Social Dancing - all ages welcome for energetic, fun dancing to live music.

Come solo or with a friend - if you can smile, walk and know left from right, you can contra dance! Year round, every 2nd and 4th Tuesday. 5th Ave United Methodist Church, 409 S 5th Ave.

comedy OPEN MIC Wildest open mic in town ... anything goes. (except cover songs). Stand-up comedy, slam poetry, video, live music, odd talents—performances of all kinds.

Hosted by 6-beer Steve. Sign up, 8pm, and runs all night. Juggling Gypsy 1612 Castle St. ILM, (910) 763-2223 daily after 3pm for details. www.jugglinggypsy.com.

GRUFF GOAT COMEDY First Wed. ea. month, Gruff Goat Comedy

art

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features Three Guest Comics Under a Bridge. No Trolls. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane.

PRIMETIME COMEDY See some of NC’s best stand-up comedians in a world class venue! This month’s talented performers: Brett Williams, Cordero Wilson, Grant Sheffield, Louis Bishop, and Tyler Wood. Hosted by: Wills Maxwell. N Front Theatre (formerly City Stage), 21 N Front St. LUCKY JOE COMEDY SHOW First Sat. ea. month is free show at Lucky Joe Craft Coffee on College Road presented by Regretful Villains. The show features a new style of stand-up called Speed Joking. Come enjoy a night of laughs and find your Comedic Soulmate!

1414 S College Rd. LIVE RIFFING AND VINTAGE TV Every Wed. join Dead Crow Comedy for improv night. Join local comedians for a TV party at Dead Crow! An interactive improvised comedy show. 265 N. Front St. DAREDEVIL IMPROV COMEDY TROUPE DareDevil Improv Classes teach you the fundamentals of the funny! Learn to be more spontaneous, trust your instincts, and create one-of-a-kind comedy with an ensemble! (And even if you’re not a “performer,” our classes are a great way to meet people and have a hella good time!)

Details/sign-ups: daredevilimprov.com.

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

BOMBERS COMEDY OPEN MIC Sign up at 8:30; show’s at 9. Bring your best to the mic. Bomber’s Beverage Company, 108 Grace St. DEAD CROW Open mic every Thursday, 8pm. • May 24-25, 7pm/9:30pm: Geoffrey Asmus began performing stand-up in 2013 immediately after wasting $143,548 on four college degrees. Within a short time Geoffrey won Comedy on State’s “Funniest Person in Madison 2015” and Penguin Comedy Club’s “Funniest Person in Iowa 2015,” both times beating out the guy who invented meth, Quentin. Geoffrey was selected as a ‘New Face’ at Just For Laughs in Montreal and performed on FOX’s ‘Laughs’ and Kevin Hart’s LOL Network.

He has also performed at the Bridgetown, Limestone and Boston comedy festivals and won 3rd place in 2017 at the Laughing Skull Festival in Atlanta. Raanan Hershberg is a neurotic, overweight Jew originally from Louisville, KY. He was a finalist in StandUp NBC and The Laughing Skull Festival in Atlanta, GA. He regularly opens for Kathleen Madigan in sold out theaters across the country. His first album Self-Helpless climbed all the way to the top of the iTunes Comedy Charts. His comedy has been featured on “Laughs” on FOX and is regularly played on Sirius XM. Tickets: deadcrowcomedy.com. 265 N. Front St.

museums CAMERON ART MUSEUM On exhibit: “A Time When Art Is Everywhere: teamLab,” an art collective and interdisciplinary group of programmers, engineers, CG animators, mathematicians artists and architects, creates digital artworks that bridge art, science, technology, design and the natural world. Designs are immersive interpretations deeply rooted in Japanese art, aesthetic and history. Through Sept. 8. • Sunday Exhibition Tours: Explore, discover and discuss the art work currently on view with these docent-led tours. Admission: CAM members, free; others, museum admission.

CAM Café open and serving delicious menu with full bar, 5pm-9pm. Tues.-Sun., 11am-2pm; Thurs. nights, 5pm-9pm 910395-5999. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St. CAPE FEAR MUSEUM Hundreds of toys and games are on view in PlayTime!—classics, like Lincoln Logs, toy soldiers, an Erector set and a Mr. Potato Head, and even old faves like wooden tops, blocks and dolls. Remember those toys that, for whatever reason, we just had to have? Some of those fad favorites like the Rubik’s cube and 1960s Liddle Kiddle dolls are on exhibit along with toy figures from fast food kids’ meals.

Explore toy history in custom label books.

Play, create, and imagine in Cape Fear

e c n e oC mmcake. with

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Museum’s newest exhibit, PlayTime! Engage with museum educators in these short, drop-in programs. Activities change weekly and may include puzzles, games, blocks, and more. Adult participation is required. Fun for all ages! Free for members or with general admission • Camera Collections! With today’s smart phones and digital cameras, photography is everywhere. Until the invention of the camera in 1839, there was no way to instantly capture the environment around you. In less than 200 years, cameras have progressed from complicated contraptions only used by professionals, to simple boxes with a roll of film anyone could operate, to handheld computers that create digital images shared with the world. 86 cameras and 145 photographic accessories showcases changes in technology and styles, from late 1800s-early 2000s. capefearmuseum.com. $8/adults, $7/seniors, college & military, $5/youth. • May 18, 2pm: Discovery Lab: Colorful Chemistry—Ignite your curiosity! Discover history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear through hands-on exploration and fun science labs. Ideal for ages 5 and up and adult participation is required.

Free. CF Museum, 814 Market St. WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM WB Museum of History, housed in the turn of the century Myers Cottage, exists to preserve and to share the history of Wrightsville Beach. Visitors to the cottage will find a scale model of Wrightsville

Beach circa 1910, exhibits featuring the early days of the beach including Lumina Pavilion, our hurricane history and information about the interaction between the people and our natural environment which have shaped the 100 yr. history of WB. (910) 256-2569. 303 W. Salisbury St. www.wbmuseum.com.

WILMINGTON RR MUSEUM Explore railroad history and heritage, especially of the Atlantic Coast Line, headquartered in Wilmington for 125 years.

Interests and activities for all ages, including historical exhibits, full-size steam engine and rolling stock, lively Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall, and spectacular model layouts.

House in an authentic 1883 freight warehouse, facilities are fully accessible and on one level. By reservation, discounted group tours, caboose birthday parties, and after-hours meetings or mixers. Story Time on 1st/3rd Mon. at 10:30am, only $5 per family and access to entire Museum.

Admission only $9 adult, $8 senior/military, $5 child, ages 2-12, and free under age 2. 505 Nutt St. 910-763-2634. www. wrrm.org.

LATIMER HOUSE Victorian Italiante style home built in 1852, the restored home features period furnishings, artwork and family portraits. Tours offered Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm, and Sat, 125pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. Latimer House of Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. Third St.

BURGWIN-WRIGHT HOUSE 18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th and 19th century decor and gardens. Colonial life is experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen-building and courtyard. 3rd/ Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. 910-762-0570. www.burgwinwrighthouse.com.

BELLAMY MANSION One of NCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans, for John Dillard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, planter and business leader; and his wife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (1821-1907) and their nine children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington. Now a museum, it focuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action. 910-251-3700. bellamymansion. org. 503 Market St. BATTLESHIP NC May 18, noon: For the explorer at heart, four 1/2 hours touring restored areas of the Battleship in small groups. Climb the tower for the best view in Wilmington. See the brig, officersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; country, engineering and gunnery spaces, and more. Brings out the Indiana Jones in all of us! Battle-

ship North Carolina, 1 Battleship Rd.

kids stuff SNAKE AND TURTLE FEEDING A brief presentation about the live animals on display in the events center and then watch them feed. At least one snake and turtle will be fed during the demonstration.

Ages: 3 and up. First Wed. of every month.

Cost: $1. Halyburton Park, 4099 S. 17th St. LITTLE EXPLORERS OUT AND ABOUT Thursdays, 11am, free. Program locations alternate between MLK Center and BRCHemenway Center. Meet friends in your community for fun hands-on activities! Enjoy interactive circle time, conduct exciting experiments and play games related to a weekly theme. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. â&#x20AC;˘ At BRCHemenway Community Center, 507 McRae St.â&#x20AC;&#x201D;May 30: Starry Night. â&#x20AC;˘ At MLK Center, 401 South 8th St.â&#x20AC;&#x201D;May 23: Sun and Moon.

lectures/literary FRANZ KLINE IN COAL COUNTRY May 19, 12:30pm: The stunning and talented Joel Finsel returns to Old Books on Front St. to sign copies of his newest project, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Franz Kline in Coal Country.â&#x20AC;? Meet the author! Get an autograph! delve deep into the world of 20th century American art! Old Books on Front Street, 249 N. Front St.

REVOLUTIONARY POETS May 23, 7:30pm: A poetry reading and an open mic at the Jamaica House in Wilmington. Home of the Perform Slam Movement, the Sam Sharpe Poetry Reading is dedicated to revolutionary thinkers performing revolutionary poetry for the people and to lovers of freedom expressing themselves. An open mic, so anyone can attend and participate.

Jamaica House Sports Bar & Grill, 2206 Carolina Beach Rd.

recreational WALK WITH A DOC Join us the 3rd Saturday of every month at 9am for a fun and healthy walkâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;held at the Midtown YMCA. Each walk beings with a brief physician-led discussion of a current health topic, then he/she spends time walking, answering questions and talking with walkers. Choose your own pace and distance. Free and open to anyone. YMCA Midtown, George Anderson Dr. WB SCENIC TOURS Thurs., 10:30am: WB Scenic Tours birding boat cruise of Masonboro Island and Bradley Creek. Guided eco-cruises are educational boat tours designed to increase conservation awareness about local wildlife and sensitive coastline habitats in New Hanover County. Topics explained during the boat ride will include:

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occasions welcomed Appointments preferred, walk-ins welcomed Complimentary wine with services

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salt marsh function, wetland plants, and strong emphasis on shorebird/water bird ecology and identification. Birding tours are best when scheduled at low tide. • Sunset Tour of WB, Thurs., 5pm: Sunset with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours departs from the Blockade Runner Dock.

Routes vary with season, weather, and whim on the Basic Sunset Cruise but may include Masonboro Island, Bradley Creek, Money Island or some other combination.

Water, marsh, Shamrock, sunset—it’s a simple combination but very satisfying.

Also, from experience, this is the best time to sight dolphins in the bay. RSVP: 910-200-4002 or wbst3000@gmail.com.

WB Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

HIKES AND BIRDING First Friday bird hikes, ages 5/up; free. We’ll search for migrants, residents, and point out year-round species too. These walks are for beginner birders and all are welcome.

Halyburton Park, 4099. S. 17th St. WALKING CLUB Mondays & Wednesdays, 9am through Apr. 24. Free. Pre-registration required.

Trained fitness staff will lead each walk.

All ages are welcome. Weather permitting, we will walk outside. MLK Center, 401 South 8th St. WOMEN’S GOLF LEAGUE Wed., 9:30am, through May 29: 2 person teams. Format: Best Ball. Tournament will be May 29 with prizes awarded to low gross and low net. Includes 6 weeks of greens fees & one practice round. Regis-

ter at the clubhouse or online www.inlandgreensgolf.com. Call 910-765-7459. $50/ player. Inland Greens Golf Course, 5945 Inland Greens Dr. CAPE FEAR ROLLER GRILS CF Roller Girls are seeking new recruits and referees! Come find out what roller derby and the Cape Fear Roller Girls are all about at our free registration night!

We’ll cover the basics of roller derby, the ins and outs of CFRG Bootcamp, and even meet a few of our active skaters! We promise, we’re not as scary off the track! CFRG welcomes competitiveminded women from all walks of life who can dedicate the time and energy it takes to become a roller derby skater. You must be at least 18 years old to play roller derby. capefearrollergirls.com or /www. facebook.com/events/345835349388095.

Scooters Family Skating Center, 341 Shipyard Blvd.

ULTIMATE TEEN TIME May 10, 6:30pm: Ages: Middle School Students. Program is offered on the 2nd Friday of the month. Free. Pre-registration is required. Space is very limited so please register early. Activities include sports, Xbox, karaoke, board games, refreshments, and more. Maides Park, 1101 Manly Ave. 910.341.7867. Register online webreg.wilmingtonnc.gov FIRST FRIDAY BIRD HIKES 6/7, 7/5, 8/2, 9am: Join parkstaff for a leisurely bird-watching stroll around Halyburton Park the first Friday of each

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month. We’ll search for migrants and point out year-round bird species too. These walks are for beginner birders and all are welcome. 5 and up, free. Halyburton Park, 4099 S 17th St. TEEN GAME NIGHT Ages: 13-17. Free, 6-9pm. Video games, board games, other activities and refreshments. Pre-registration required. MLK Center, 401 S. 8th St. 910-341-7866. wilmingtonrecreation.com. MLK Community Center, 401 S. 8th St. ART MOVES 6:30 pm: Minnie’s Mile; 7 pm: 5k starts.

Register now to walk, run or race either the Minnie’s Mile or 5k. Art Moves Midtown is a unique race featuring the beautiful Cross City Trail, Halyburton Park, artist-made awards and full access to CAM’s exhibitions. At 5:30 pm take part in art activities going on near the start/finish line. Get some exercise, fresh air, and inspiration while you support your local art museum. To register and for more information: https://itsgo-time.com/art-moves-midtown-5k/. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St. BIRDING TRAIL HIKES May 16, 8am: Lock and Dam #1, 16 and up. $45/person. Halyburton Park, 4099 S 17th St. SENIOR BINGO May 16, 10am-noon: Games, refreshments, prizes! Join us for Bingo! Light refreshments will be served. Pre-registration is required. Free Ages: 50/up. 910-341-0056

to register. MLK Community Center, 401 S. 8th St. MEMORIAL DAY BATTLEHOUSE Veterans play one free game on Friday May 24th. Everyone else, choose your deal (May 24-27): $6 off 1.5 hours. Play 3 hours for $36. All weapon upgrades are half off.

Battle House Laser Tag, 1817 Hall Dr.

classes/seminars ADULT CRAFTERNOONS New monthly meet-up for adults who enjoy crafting. Drop in on the first Monday afternoon of every month at the Northeast Library. A different usable craft project will be featured each month. Free program, with all supplies provided by a Friends of NHC Library LEAD Award. Reserve spot on calendar at www.NHCLibrary.org or 910-798-6371. Librarian Annice Sevett: asevett@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371.

1241 Military Cutoff Rd. CRAFTEEN MINI GARDENS Crafty teens are invited for snacks and miniature garden making at Northeast Library. Hands-on workshop is free but space is limited. To make sure there are enough seats and supplies, register on calendar, NHCLibrary.org. 910-798-6371.

NHC NE Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. DIY IPHONE FIX Sundays through May, 1pm: A short workshop, with all the parts, tools, and knowhow provided to fix a broken screen to a

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working one! Our two hour Repair Cafe is a workshop that shows the basics of iPhone repair in a controlled environment, so you don’t have to worry about messing something up, or never putting it back together again. We’ll go over the 5 tools required for any iPhone repair, prepare instructions for your specific model iPhone, then show you how to properly open it, replace the necessary components, check for water damage or other potential problems.

Finally, we’ll show you how to reassemble, and properly test for functionality! Seating is limited. Lead Tech Service, 225 S Water St, Ste D. eadtechservice.com SUNRISE CHAKRA MEDITATION & FLOW Join Jessica King, MSW, LCSW, E-RYT, for sunrise yoga practice series that will incorporate asana, pranayama, and meditation specific to the chakras. These practices will leave you feeling grounded, balanced, and energized. May 17th: Seeing and Recognizing Personal Power – Turn up the fire in this solar plexus practice in order to create space for confidence and motivation while connecting to the intuition and wisdom of the third eye chakra.

Terra Sol Sanctuary, 507 Castle St. CRAFTS AND DRAFTS May 18, 2pm: Crafts + Drafts is bringing macramé back!! This time around you will learn to make a gorgeous boho wall hanging! Amanda of The Misplaced Cactus will be teaching us a few fundamental knots that can be used to make decorative and functional shapes for any project.

No prior experience? No worries! This class is great for anyone from beginner to novice! All materials are included with the price of the ticket and you will leave with your own unique wall hanging, along with the skills to continue on macramé-ing at home! Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St. TRY CURLING May 18, 4pm: If you watched curling during the Olympics and thought you’d like to try it, now’s your chance! On Saturday May 18th, the Coastal Carolina Curling Club will be hosting a try curling event at the Wilmington Ice House. During this demonstration, you will be taught the basics of playing the game (delivering a stone and sweeping) and at the end of the class participants will put their skills to the test in an abbreviated game. For more information contact info@coastalcurling.com or visit our website, coastalcurling.com Space is limited, so don’t delay! Wilmington Ice House, 7201 Ogden Business Ln. POOLSIDE YOGA Enrollment through May 29: Longwave Yoga and The Reserve at Mayfaire present a 4-week series of “Poolside Yoga!”

Enjoy the blissful surroundings as you practice poolside at The Reserve at Mayfaire. This class is sure to be fun for beginners and experienced yogis alike. Bring your own yoga mat and be ready for some yoga fun! Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine #200.

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May 22, 7pm: 5-week series for middle 7pm. The New Hanover NAACP branch and high school girls is designed to help proudly turns 100 years old in May and young ladies manage the increasing presinformation on their Centennial Celebrasures placed upon their lives. Each week tion Friday, May 31, 7 pm at Wilmington we will work towards boosting self-esteem Convention Center, 515 Nutt Street, will be and reducing anxiety, while being playful provided. Other important state and comand having fun. Through conscious conmunity issues will also be on the agenda. trol of the breath, your teen will access Members and friends are encouraged a relaxed and focused frame of mind for to attend. 910-508-9414 or nhcnaacp@ managing stressful situations. Yoga is an gmail.com. St. Stephen AME Church, 501 empowering practice and each class will Red Cross St. encourage a sense of belonging to the WOMEN’S GOLF LEAGUE group and make positive changes in the May 29, 9:30am: 2 person teams meet way we live our lives. Longwave Yoga, Wed. 9:30am. Format: Best Ball. Tourna203 Racine #200 ment will be May 29 with prizes awarded HYPNOBIRTHING to low gross and low net. Cost: $50/playMay 25, 10am: There are a lot of fears ers. Includes 6 weeks of greens fees & that can surround birth, and those fears one practice round. Register at the clubshould not hold you back from having an house or online at inlandgreensgolf.com. amazing birth experience. HypnoBirthing 910-765-7459. I5945 Inland Greens Dr. “The Mongan Method” will teach you to place yourself in an ultra-calm state using visualizations, music, self-hypnosis, and relaxation techniques. You and your body work together through your labor, easing FERMENTAL pain and discomfort. In Hypnobirthing, Free tasting every Friday, 6pm. Third Wed. you are totally conscious and in a strong of each month feat. musical and brewing state of relaxation and engagement with talents alongside an open mic night, as your body. Your mind is still functioning well as the opportunity for homebrewers normally so you’re aware of what is going to share, sample, and trade their creon around you. Join this 5-week Hypnoations: an evening of beer and an open Birthing “The Mongan Methos” series and stage. PA and equipment provided. All feel prepared and informed about your genres and beer. • May 31, 5pm: An Eveupcoming birth. Longwave Yoga, 203 Raning with Olde Hickory Brewing, beer tastcine #200 ings and food truck from 2 Bros Coastal Cuisine, 6pm; live music from Mike Blair, BENCH PRESS WORKSHOP 8pm. www.fermental.net. 910-821-0362.

May 28, 4pm: At this bench press strength 7250 Market St. workshop participants will learn how to improve their bench press strength by FREE BREWERY TOURS AND TASTINGS learning optimal form and other exer3pm, 3:45pm, 4:30pm everyday at Front cises to train that will increase bench Street Brewery, 9 N. Front St. Learn how press strength. Improve your bench press we brew our beer, meet brewers and get strength; perfect bench press technique; two free samples. reduce injuries; strengthen your weak spots. Participants will receive an 8 week ILM LOCAL FARMERS’ MARKET Wed., 5pm: Join us for a wonderful, excitsample workout program to take with ing night of fun. Port City Farmer’s Marthem. Program is open to public, free. ket at Waterline Brewing Co. 100% local, Pre-registration is require. Sherridale Mor100% handmade. Shop among some ingan Boxing & Fitness Center, 302 S. 10th credible local vendors, artists and farmSt. 910-341-7872. ers. Support small businesses in your MEDITATE AND CHILL area. Fresh local produce, beef and pork May 28, 7:30pm: White Rabbit Trips Fam products, sweets, pickled items, handmeet every Tuesday from 7:30-8:30pm crafted jewelry and art. Waterline Brewing at Terra Sol Sanctuary. We’ll guide you Company, 721 Surry Ln. through a 20-30 minute meditation to help FREE WINE TASTING you take a deep breath. Relax. Let go.

Sample some of the most delicious wines Make space. After our meditation, we’ll at SnS for free, with an optional $25 food make space to chill. Find connection. Talk pairing. Food pairings are designed spethings out. Meet + greet. No need for Netcifically to go with each wine to bring out flix. Let’s get real. All levels welcome. $10 the fullest flavor of both. If you ever want(Terra Sol Class Passes Welcome). Terra ed to learn more about how to bring out Sol Sanctuary, 507 Castle St. the flavor of wine -n- food now you can experience a wonderful trip to flavor town.

Benny Hill Jazz always starts at 7pm.

Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavilion Place BIKE NIGHT RIVERFRONT FARMERS’ MARKET Bike Night at Mac’s Speed Shop, beer, Sat., 8am-1pm: Local farmers, growers, bikes, BBQ. Featuring in concert: South producers and artisans to sell their goods Starr band playing great classic-southern directly to consumers, to encourage and R&R music! Mac’s Speed Shop, 4126 Olepromote the use of locally-grown farm ander Dr. products and artisan offerings. VegetaNEW HANOVER NAACP bles, herbs, plants, annuals, perennials, Monthly meeting is Thursday, May 23, native plants, fresh-cut flowers, baked

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goods, NC wines, dog treats, eggs, honey, goat cheeses, seafood, kombucha, meats, marina & fra diavolo sauce, smoothies and more. Artisan works of handmade jewelry, woodwork, silkscreen t-shirts & totes, photography, bath & body products, pet accessories, pottery, drawings and more. North Water Street in historic downtown Wilmington, NC along the beautiful Cape Fear River. No market on April 6, due to the Azalea Festival or October 5th due to Riverfest. www.riverfrontfarmersmarket.org.

PIZZA-THEMED BEER & WINE TASTING May 22, 6pm: Join us for a pizza themed five course dinner paired with WBB beer and wines from Windham Distributing!

Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr. SUSTAINABLE SPIRITS May 22, 6pm: Sustainable Spirits is a casual gathering for the sustainability community organized by the Coastal Composting Council. It’s free, unstructured, and open to everyone interested in anything from renewable energy and civic engagement to green building, organic farming, and beyond! Wilmington Compost Company will provide lite bites from The Kitchen at Palate where Chef Carson Jewell has taken a committed stand to serve the best locally sourced food on 100% compostable materials. This waste is diverted weekly by the W.C.C. creating a zero waste stream, reducing Palate’s carbon footprint. Palate, 1007 N 4th St.

tours CAM WEEKLY EXHIBITION TOURS Cameron Art Museum allows participants to explore current exhibitions with Anne Brennan, CAM’s executive director, in a new series of public tours. Free for CAM members. Wed., 1:30pm. 3201 S. 17th St. LITERARY HISTORY WALKING TOUR Explore the rich culture of our talented Southern town with a 90 minute walking tour of the literary history of downtown Wilmington, NC. Visit “The Two Libraries.”

Walk the streets of your favorite novels, and stand where Oscar Wilde did when he lectured here. Saturdays, 1:30pm, Old Books on Front. 249 N. Front St. www. brownpapertickets.com/event/1282390

youth facilitators, especially those who are trained to work with kids, and speakers to talk about important topics. wpyg2016@ gmail.com.

ANXIETY / OCD SUPPORT GROUP Group meets 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Building B. Christopher Savard, Ph.D., with Cape Fear Psychological Services, gives a presentation the 1st Thursday of each month. 3rd Thursday meeting is member led. Everyone 18+ welcome. 910-763-8134 LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP ARIES 21–April each 19) month. Free; Meets (Mar. third Saturday In drop-ins the coming I suspect you will have areweeks, welcome.

Group provides the wisdom to criticize yourself in constructive participants an opportunity to receive inways which will least lupus, partiallyencourage solve a longtroductory infoatabout the standing problem.

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I bet you will expression of concerns, provide an also opunderstand to doexperiences, to eliminate aencourage bad habit portunity what to share byand installing a good new habit.

Please, capitalize support positive coping strategies, and onemphasize that specialthe knowledge!

There’s one further importance of medical treatcapacity I suspect you’ll have: saucy ingement. Guest speakers, DVDthepresentations nuity to alleviate a festering fear. Be andnecessary open group discussion. info@lupusnc. audacious! org (877) 849-8271, x1. lupusnc.org. NE Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

PFLAG What standards might we use in evaluating levMon/mo. at UNCW, in crucial the Masonboro elsFirst of sexual satisfaction?

One measure Room #2010, is Island the tenderness and 7pm. respect partners have

for each other. include the to play COPING WITHOthers THE DEATH OF ability A SPOUSE/ and have fun, the freedom to express oneself PARTNER uninhibitedly, theFear creative attention devoted to Lower Cape Hospice will offer a sixunpredictable foreplay, and the ability to expeweek, no-cost grief program for those coping with the orgasms. death of How a spouse partner rience fulfilling do youorrate your in levels, Wilmington Wednesdays, 15 own Taurus?on Wherever you may May currentJune 19.the The groupmonths meetings will ly through fall on the scale, coming will be 10 you a.m.can to noon at the Dr. M. a be timeheld when accomplish an Robert upgrade.

Fales Hospice Conference How? Read authorsPavilion who specialize in the Room, erotic 1406 Drive with in Wilmington.

Prearts.

TalkPhysicians to your partners increased boldregistration is required; call 910-796-7991 ness and clarity.

While meditating, search for to register. lcfh.org. Dr. Robert M. Fales clues in the depths.

Hospice Pavilion, 1406 Physicians Dr.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

ADULTS COPING WITH GRIEF If there were a hall of fame for writers, ShakeLower Cape Fear Hospice will offer a nospeare might have been voted in first. His work is cost, six-week series of growth and educaregarded as a pinnacle of intellectual brilliance. tion groups for adults coping with grief on Yet here’s a fun fact: The Bard quoted well over Mondays, May 13 through June 24. Meeta thousand passages from the Bible. Can you ings will be held 4-6 p.m. at the Dr. Robimagine modern author being taken seriously ert M. aFales Hospice Pavilion Conference byRoom, the literati if he or she frequently invoked such 1406 Physicians Drive in Wilminga ton. fundamental religious text? I meeting bring it to There will be no group onyour May attention to encourage to be Shakespeare27 (Memorial Day).you Pre-registration is relike in coming willingtotoregister. draw equally quired; callweeks—be 910-796-7991 lcfh. from both intellectual and spiritual sources.

Be a org. Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion, deep thinker who communes with sacred truths., 1406 Physicians Dr. Synergize the functions of your discerning mind and devotional heart.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

“People will choose unhappiness over uncertainty,” Cancerian author and entrepreneur Timothy Ferriss writes. He doesn’t do that himself, but is quite eager to harvest the perks of dwelling in uncertainty. I presume such aptitude has played a role in his huge success; his books have appeared on bestseller lists and podcasts have been downloaded more than 300 million times.

In telling you this, I’m not encouraging you to embrace the fertile power of uncertainty 24 hours a day, 365 days every year. I am urging you to do just that for the next three weeks. There will be big payoffs if you do, including rich teachings on the art of happiness.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

Many 18th-century pirates were committed to democracy and equality among their ranks. The camaraderie, fairness and mutual respect that prevailed on pirate ships were markedly different from the oppressive conditions faced by sailors who worked for the navies of sovereign nations.

The latter were often pressed into service against their will and had to struggle to collect meager salaries. Tyrannical captains controlled all phases of their lives. I bring it to your attention, Leo, with hope it will inspire you to seek out alternative approaches to rigid and hierarchical systems.

Gravitate toward generous organizations that offer ample freedom and rich alliances. The time is right to ally yourself with emancipatory influences.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Don’t wait around for fate to decide which decisions to make and what directions to go. Formulate those decisions yourself, with willpower fully engaged. Never say, “If it’s meant to be, it will happen.” Rather, resolve to create the outcomes you strongly desire. Do you understand how important this is? You shouldn’t allow anyone else to frame your important questions and define the nature of your problems; you’ve got to do the framing and defining yourself. One more thing: Don’t fantasize about the arrival of the “perfect moment”—whenever you decree it is.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

In the coming weeks, I hope you’ll regularly give yourself to generous, expansive experiences.

I hope you’ll think big, funny thoughts and feel spacious, experimental emotions. I hope you’ll get luxurious glimpses of the promise your future holds, and I hope you’ll visualize embarking on adventures and projects you’ve been too timid or worried to consider before now. For best results, be eager to utter the word “more!” as you meditate on the French phrase “joie de vivre” and the English phrase “a delight in being alive.”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

According to “Popular Mechanics” magazine, over 3 million sunken ships are lying on the bottoms of the world’s oceans. Some of them contain billions of dollars’ worth of precious metals and jewels. Others are crammed with artifacts of great value to historians and archaeologists. Here’s a crazy fact: Fewer than 1 percent of all potential treasures have been investigated by divers. I bring it to your attention, Scorpio, because I hope it might inspire you to explore your inner world’s equivalent of lost or unknown riches. The astrological omens suggest the coming weeks will be an excellent time to go searching for them.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

“Some days you need god’s grace,” poet Scherezade Siobhan writes. “On other days: the feral tongue of vintage whiskey and a mouth kissed by fire.” I’m guessing, Sagittarius, these days you might be inclined to prefer the feral tongue of vintage whiskey and a mouth kissed by fire. According to my astrological analysis, those flashy phenomena would not motivate you to take the corrective and adaptive measures you actually need. The grace of god—or whatever passes for the grace of god in your world—is the influence that will best help you accomplish what’s necessary. Fortunately, I suspect you know how to call on and make full use of that grace.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Capricorn poet William Stafford articulated some advice I think you need to hear right now. Please, hold it close to your awareness for the next 21 days. “Saying things you do not have to say weakens your talk,” he wrote. “Hearing things you do not need to hear dulls your hearing.”

By practicing such protective measures, Capricorn, you will foster and safeguard your mental health. Here’s another gift from Stafford: “Things you know before you hear them—those are you, those are why you are in the world.”

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

“Love is an immoderate thing / And can never be content,” poet W. B. Yeats declared. To provide you with an accurate horoscope, I’ll have to argue with that idea a bit. From what I can determine, love will indeed be immoderate in your vicinity during coming weeks. On the other hand, it’s likely to bring you a high degree of contentment—as long as you’re willing to play along with its immoderateness. Here’s another fun prediction: I suspect love’s immoderateness, even as it brings you satisfaction, will also inspire you to ask for more from love and expand your capacity for love. And that could lead to even further immoderate and interesting experiments.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

You will know you are in sweet alignment with cosmic forces if you have an impulse to try a rash adventure, but decide instead to work on fixing a misunderstanding with an ally. You can be sure you’re acting in accordance with your true intuition, if you feel an itch to break stuff, but instead channel your fierce energy into improving conditions at your job. You will be in tune with your soul’s code if you start fantasizing about quitting what you’ve been working on so hard, but instead sit down and give yourself a pep talk to reinvigorate your devotion and commitment.

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INSIDER’S TOUR Explore the history of community at Cape Fear Museum. Take the Insider’s Tour offered the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10am. Tours are free with admission and include a “behind the scenes” sneak peek. Pre-reg. is required: 910-798-4362 or cfmprograms@nhcgov.com. Free w/GA or membership. CF Museum, 814 Market St. GHOST WALK 6:30 & 8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted Wilmington. Nightly tours, 6:30pm/8:30pm. Admission. Water & Market sts. RSVP rqd: 910-794-1866. hauntedwilmington.com BELLAMY MANSION Guided tours start on the hour; self-guided tours start at any time. Mon. is only selfguided tours. Follow curved oyster-shell .com

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paths through our lush Victorian garden shaded by 150-yr.-old magnolia trees. See the elegant main entrance surrounded by soaring columns and gleaming windows.

Hear stories of Bellamies, as well as those of the free and enslaved black artisans who built the home and crafted intricate details throughout the house. Adults $12; senior and military discount, $10; students, $6; children under 5, free. Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St. MASONBORO SHELLING TOUR Explore Masonboro Island and discover the wonder of the Carolina coast. This tour option is ideal for families, birders, and nature enthusiasts. Masonboro Island is an 8.4-mile marine sanctuary island, renowned for its plant and wildlife diversity.

Topics will include shell biology, native plant species, shorebirds, and barrier island ecology. Adult $45 Child $25 RSVP: 910-200-4002. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.

OFF THE RECORD TOURS May 23, 6:30pm: Start your weekend early with gallery tours led by museum staff that are sometimes irreverent and silly, but always provide a charming and engaging behind-the-scenes perspective on current exhibitions. But what if I’m really thirsty before the tour? Join us for happy hour beforehand to loosen up your brain and chat about art. Brown Wing, Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St. CAM members: Free; museum admission all others.

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support groups WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP Grades 7-12: Wilmington Pride Youth Group is a safe space for youth who identify as LGBTQIA+ and their straight allies.

An adult supervised, safe space for kids to talk about orientation, gender, racial equality, political consequences, religion, self care. Also a great opportunity to meet and socialize with peers from the greater Wilmington area. Meets Thurs., 7pm. Needed: youth facilitators, especially those who are trained to work with kids, and speakers to talk about important topics. wpyg2016@ gmail.com.

ANXIETY / OCD SUPPORT GROUP Group meets 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Building B. Christopher Savard, Ph.D., with Cape Fear Psychological Services, gives a presentation the 1st Thursday of each month. 3rd Thursday meeting is member led. Everyone 18+ welcome. 910-763-8134 LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP Meets third Saturday each month. Free; drop-ins are welcome. Group provides participants an opportunity to receive introductory info about lupus, encourage the expression of concerns, provide an opportunity to share experiences, encourage and support positive coping strategies, and emphasize the importance of medical

treatment. Guest speakers, DVD presentations and open group discussion. info@ lupusnc.org (877) 849-8271, x1. lupusnc. org. NE Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. PFLAG First Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.

COPING WITH THE DEATH OF A SPOUSE/PARTNER Lower Cape Fear Hospice will offer a sixweek, no-cost grief program for those coping with the death of a spouse or partner in Wilmington on Wednesdays, May 15 through June 19. The group meetings will be held 10 a.m. to noon at the Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion Conference Room, 1406 Physicians Drive in Wilmington. Pre-registration is required; call 910-796-7991 to register. lcfh.org. Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion, 1406 Physicians Dr. ADULTS COPING WITH GRIEF Lower Cape Fear Hospice will offer a nocost, six-week series of growth and education groups for adults coping with grief on Mondays, May 13 through June 24.

Meetings will be held 4-6 p.m. at the Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion Conference Room, 1406 Physicians Drive in Wilmington. There will be no group meeting on May 27 (Memorial Day). Pre-registration is required; call 910-796-7991 to register. lcfh.org. Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion, 1406 Physicians Dr.

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