December 16, 2015

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The Cape Fear’s Alternative Voice for 30 Years!

VOL. 32 / PUB. 25 / FREE december 16 – 22, 2015

Performing a

Magical Dream

Wilmington Ballet Company hosts “The Nutcracker” at Cape Fear Stage

Pgs. 30-31

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HODGEPODGE Vol. 32/Pub. 25

December 16 – 22, 2015

Friday, Dec. 18 - 11:30am

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Holiday Hoopla at the Museum

ON THE COVER

Join the Children’s Museum of Wilmington at 116 Orange St. for their Holiday Hoopla festivities. Kids will get creative with holiday crafts, baking and more throughout the week. The schedule of events include: Cinnamon Ornaments for Wed., Dec. 16; Candy Cottages, Thurs., Dec. 17; and Reindeer Food on Fri., Dec. 18. There’s also Polar Express day on Sat., Dec. 19 at 10 a.m. All activities are free with admission or membership. Visit their Facebook event page for more info.

Performing a Magical Dream, pgs. 30-31 The Wilmington Ballet Company will bring back a holiday classic and the winner of the 2014 Best Performance, ‘The Nutcracker,’ in last year’s Best Of poll. Read about their show the CFCC Fine Arts and Humanities Center on pages 30-31. Courtesy photo.

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Music>> Meet Time Sawyer, another energetic folkinspired band, sharing the sounds, stories and spirit of the rural foothills of NC. See them at Bourgie Nights on Sat., Dec. 19.

Courtesy photo.

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PGs. 8-9

Editor-in-Chief: Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com Editorial Assistant: Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com

SALES>

Courtesy photo.

D

Dining>>

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

Rosa Bianca bellies up to BarLocal in this week’s dining review. ‘Small plates’ are anything but, with filling sandwiches and a tasty Taco Tuesday.

Photo by Holland Dotts Photography

EDITORIAL>

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

<<FILM

PG. 21

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.

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‘Creed’ revives the legacy of the ‘Rocky’ series and the late Apollo Creed. The film sucker-punched Anghus with knockout performances by Sylvester Stallone and Michael B. Jordan.

Published weekly, on Wednesday, by HP Media.

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

PG. 28

INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • Op Ed, pg. 6 • News of the Weird, pg. 7 Music, pgs. 8-13 • Art, pgs. 14-15 • Theatre, pgs. 17-19 • Film, pg. 21 Dining, pgs. 22-28 • Extra, pgs. 30-32 • Calendar, pgs. 34-55

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event of the week

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

BOOK & LYRICS BY JOE DIPIERTO

PAUL TEAL

BARBARA MOOTOO

JERRIAL YOUNG

MUSIC & LYRICS BY DAVID BRYAN BASED ON A CONCEPT BY GEORGE W. GEORGE

NYGEL ROBINSON

JON STAFFORD

RASA LOVE

Also Starring: Khawon Porter, John Stafford, Kim Ewonus, Jon Wallin, Anthony Cataldo, Annie Marsh, Hunter Wyatt, Aliyah Graham, Ieisha Jones, Dorianna James, Hannah Laham, Skylar Vanderhaar, Courtney Brown, Karen Walter, Phillip Lynch, Bradley Barefoot, Joe Basquill, Kegan Dunbar, Alex Eakins, Quinn Gonzalez, William Osbourne, Sam Robinson, Mathis Turner, Shaun-Aver Williams, Carly Batson, & Emma Hutchinson

Book your holiday party now!

DECEMBER 30-31 & JANUARY 2-3, 7-10,14-17 SHOWS AT 7:30PM, SUNDAY MATINEES AT 3PM FINAL SHOW ON SUNDAY JANUARY 17 AT 2PM 310 CHESTNUT ST. WILMINGTON, NC 28401

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT www.ThalianHall.org or 910-632-2285

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NEWS>>live local

live local, live small: Crossing the bridge of history

by: gwenyfar rohler

I

THE ROAD AHEAD: Gwenyfar explores the grounds and history of Moore’s Creek Bridge with loyal pup, Hilda, in tow. Courtesy photo by Douglas Proudy, NPS Volunteer

n simple white letters on a brown sign: “Historic Negro Head Point Road.”

It stopped me in my tracks.

“Oh, gods, I’m sorry,” I whispered.

Hilda, my puppy, sniffed the sign and looked up at me, wondering why I’d started crying.

“I’m sorry. I wasn’t born yet. I wasn’t here; my family wasn’t even here—but I am still so very, very sorry.”

I wiped my eyes and shuddered, and just wondered yet again how difficult we (humans) really are.

I talk about Negro Head Point Road every Saturday when I do the Literary

History Walking Tour. It figures heavily in several fiction and non-fiction books in the area. But standing there, staring at the sign, it’s inescapable bloody name and bloody history overcame me.

That complicated, terrible reality of life in the South continues to overshadow so much.

A visit to Widow Moore’s Creek Bridge and a walk with Hilda on the newly added Mountains to the Sea Trail nearby were two of the items on my list of 40 new things to do in 2015 for encore. Visitors will learn about the American Revolution at Widow Moore’s Creek Bridge. The war for freedom was fought by a group of people who enslaved another group

4 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

of people. The historic landmark left me grappling with the unresolved reality of slavery and Jim Crow more than the battle. But history should be unsettling.

We shouldn’t visit these sites or battlefields and leave feeling sunny and certain. Turning points in the human experience are not simple cut-and-dry affairs. Humans are not simple creatures. We are by definition contradictory and complicated.

Take the Scottish Loyalists who rallied to the British Crown at the end of February 1776: Many of them had lost in the Battle of Culloden in Scotland 1746, and grudgingly sworn loyalty to the British Crown in exchange for their lives.

Yet, 30 years later they were rallying to the Crown’s standard in a new land an ocean away, and attacking their neighbors, instead of doing what they really wanted to do: farm the land.

What a weird world.

“Have you been here before?” the park ranger at the visitor’s center asked when I signed in.

“Yeah, but not in like 30 years,” I responded.

While he looked for a cup, so I could get Hilda some water I scanned the visitor’s log. People traveled from Nevada, Tennessee, Virginia, New York, Pennsylvania, and even Canada.

The last time I was here I was 6 years old. We came on a school field trip and a man in re-enactor’s garb led us around the grounds. The major things I remembered from were him pointing up the “Old Road to Fayetteville” (as he called Negro Head Point Road, probably unprepared to say that word in front of a group of children) and the retelling of instructions to the Americans not to shoot their guns until they saw “the whites of their eyes” of the British. Of course, information is a relative experience for everyone. The road to Fayetteville before the highway was covered in leaves and as comprehensible to a group of 6-year-olds as the idea that “up from the launch pad” was the road the rocket took to the moon.

Though the adults tried to make it clear that seeing “the whites of their eyes” meant they were very close to their enemy, I did not comprehend death enough at age 6 to fully understand. I couldn’t internalize clearly identifying the victim I was aiming at as a neighbor, who, incidentally, would probably hold a broadsword rather than a musket. I’m not sure I do at 35.

Hilda’s presence forced a perspective that I am too quick to miss: I am so text driven and fascinated by reading each sign that I don’t stop and notice my surroundings. Hilda is triggered by smells,

sounds, movement, and is keenly aware that we are on a path in woods filled with wild animals. I am quick to treat it like a museum, but she forced me to come back to the crisp air and visualize what this looked like as an overgrown pine forest—without a nice, neatly kept path. It made me realize men dressed in wool, carrying guns and packs through wet muddy swamp—where they could sink in past their ankles—trudged through here in the coldest month of the year.

This was wilderness—and its wildness, though pushed back and trimmed to look nice—still lurks on the edges, if we take the time to notice.

I’ve spent a lot of time reading North Carolina history in the last couple of years: non-fiction, novels, plays, poetry, memoirs, etc. Walking through Moore’s Creek National Battlefield isn’t so much stepping back in time as it is stepping through eras. There are monuments erected in the early 20th century; the marker for Pvt. John Grady, the only Patriot killed, was erected in 1857. And the signage of the park is clearly geared toward a modern audience, simultaneously evoking the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, and discussing the changing importance of the pine forest in the local economy across three centuries.

Anyone who ever took Bob Jenkins’

walking tours of historic Wilmington knows he spends a few minutes educating everyone on the history of pine pitch and its myriad uses on land and sea. The National Park Service has been re-seeding long leaf pines to try to recreate the forest of the period. They have multiple demonstration sites set up for harvesting and processing valuable products of the pine forest: lumber, turpentine, tar, and pitch. NC from the UNC School of Education defines tar, pitch and turpentine: “Tar is a dark, thick, sticky liquid produced by burning pine branches and logs very slowly in kilns. Seamen painted coats of tar on riggings that held masts and sails in place. It was also used on land, as axle grease, to preserve fenceposts, and to cover wounds on livestock to help them heal. Most likely smelled when passing a new road being laid down.

Pitch is produced by boiling tar to concentrate it. It was painted on the sides and bottoms of wooden ships to make them watertight. At room temperature, pitch is nearly solid, much like modern caulk, which has similar uses. When heated, it flows like a liquid and can be used as a paint.

wounds in their trunks. It was not much used in the colonial period, but by the 19th century it was used in manufacturing paint and a variety of other goods, as well as for medicinal purposes. This colorless but strong-smelling fluid is used as a thinner for oil-based paints.”

Hilda and I didn’t make it to the Mountains to the Sea Trail. I planned so poorly, I even forgot to bring water for her to drink. Any of the militia from the battle would have been shocked I ventured out without basic supplies, yet here we were.

(Thanks again to the ranger who saved us.) But in one afternoon at Moore’s Creek, we reconnected with many facets that continue to shape our area, literally our living history.

The 240th anniversary of the Battle of Widow Moore’s Creek Bridge will be February 27-28, 2016. The National Park Service promises encampments, re-enactments, and demonstrations of period artisans, crafts and cannon. Our colonial history set the stage for the economic reality of our area for the next 300 years.

The more we learn about it, the greater chance we have of understanding how we got here and what we need to do to move forward.

Turpentine is distilled from a gum that living pine trees secrete to protect

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 5

NEWS>>op-ed

Who Owns Our Heroes?

A common force is within everyone

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by: MARK BASQUILL

“D

arth Obama!” my young apprentice shouted. “One of my socalled Facebook friends posted a Darth Obama meme! And he wants to go see the opening of ‘The Force Awakens’ with us.”

He sputtered before continuing, “The guy is radically religious and wears Jedi T-shirts.

Doesn’t he get it?”

“Get what?” I asked.

been popular for nearly 40 years among people of all races, colors and creeds? And who owns our heroes? Do Yoda and ObiWan embody the principles of Conservatives, Liberals, Republicans, Democrats, Christians, Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Taoists, or Communists? Can any special interest group own our heroes?

My young friend’s anger will get in his way, at least according to Yoda. “Anger, fear, aggression, the Dark Side of the Force they are,” said he.

I’m actually tickled when friends I fundamentally disagree with on matters of policy and conduct post memes of heroes I identify with. It reminds me that I don’t own any of the heroes I admire. It helps me remember that, despite our differences, there may He sputtered again, giving me an opporbe a common human attraction to strive for tunity to use the disarming Jedi mind trick that is heroic. of comedy.

The ability of people with fundamentally “You sure his Darth Obama meme wasn’t different opinions on moral conduct to idena really sophisticated poke at, ‘He who shall remain nameless’—the real estate tycoon, tify with the same stories and heroes also reality show wizard presidential candidate tend to support Joseph Campbell’s scholarly that some say was born of a virgin on the work in comparative mythology. It tends not to support the absolute truth of the tenets of dark side of Mordor?” any particular religion or the world view of “Don’t mix myths!” he warned. “And, that’s any particular political ideology. And Joe’s not even funny. Stay away from Voldemort, scholarship strongly influenced George LuHarry Potter, Gandalf, Frodo, and especially cas and the whole “Star Wars” saga. the virgin birth thing at Christmas. Stick to According to Campbell the hero may ‘Star Wars’!” have a thousand faces, but he is on a pre“You favor a literal interpretation?” I chided. dictably perilous journey of trials and trans“The Farce Awakens!” the young lad har- formations—sort of like the stories woven rumphed. “If a phrase is literal, it doesn’t around Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Mohamneed to be interpreted, does it? Like, ‘Thou med, and even Ebenezer Scrooge and shalt not kill,’ for instance.”

Luke Skywalker Often the hero undergoes a difficult transformation from a child guided He laughed. by unfocused or self-focused desires to a “‘Literal interpretation’ is an oxymoron if I more mature individual guided by concerns ever heard one. Every word we will ever hear for the greater good. is filtered through our own experiences and beliefs. We interpret and re-interpret everyI looked around the shop, thoroughly enthing ever written: The Constitution. The Ko- joying the aroma of old books and coffee. I ran. The Bible. ‘Thou shalt not kill.’ Seems was glad to see Ulysses, Frodo, King Arthur, pretty literal to me. But what do I know? I Harry Potter, and even Dickens’ Pip with his have rehearsal.”

“Great Expectations.” Two miles of heroes journey to the abyss and back again!

The Force is strong in this one.

“Do you see any crosses on the Millennium Falcon? A Star of David on an X-Wing fighter? Do you ever see anyone in the Empire bowing to Mecca before battle?”

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The whole experience filled me with the Christmas spirit because I remembered that if anyone owns our heroes, we all do. Heroes are common property; a human thing. And with miles of heroic stories on these walls, our plays and on film, isn’t it possible that our entire species is on a heroic quest, an epic journey of transformation from ignorance and Farce or not, the young lad raised some interesting questions. Why has “Star Wars” selfishness, to wisdom and compassion?

The young lad strolled to his rehearsal at the Community Arts Center and I wandered downtown until I found a cup of Joe and refuge at Old Books on Front. I picked up a copy of Bill Moyers and Joseph Campbell’s “The Power of Myth,” and sat comfortably in a nook in front of the piano.

fessed to robbing a 7-Eleven. His sister had convinced Matthews that police would soon arrive to apprehend him because, even though he wore a ski-mask “disguise,” Matthews is 7-foot-4 and a former high school classmate of the clerk. It was left unreported why Matthews thought the mask would help him.

Recurring Themes

Can’t Possibly Be True

— Pastor Thom Miller, 60 (of the United Christian Ministries International in Mansfield, Ohio), told an international news crew recently that he had “married” his 19-year-old pregnant girlfriend (Reba Kerfoot), but that some in his congregation disapprove — because Miller is already married (though his incumbent wife, Belinda, 44, apparently does approve). Said Belinda, “Thom is the love of my life and Reba is the blessing of my life, so it all works.” Said Miller, “Sexually I have no preference and look forward to my time alone with both wives.” (Bonuses: (1) Miller was an enforcer for organized crime in Cleveland until he “found God” in prison. (2) He is annoyed that Ohio recognizes same-sex marriage but not polygamy. (3) The local Mansfield News Journal was apparently scooped on the story but is now catching up.)

— Mexican artist Renato Garza Cervera’s work usually involves realistic-looking figures created to startle (e.g., a “piggy bank” as a scowling hog of a man down on all fours), but his recent “gang member” floor rugs seem a career peak. Rejecting bear rugs and lion rugs, Cervera’s “Of Genuine Contemporary Beast” project features exquisitely constructed, life-size, snarling, naked, heavily tattooed men’s bodies (as if skinned) as rugs, representing “modern” beasts — Salvadorean gang members. Actually, Cervera told Vice.com he intended sympathy: “Societies always invent new beasts in order to make others responsible for their problems.”

— Las Vegas police continue to investigate Kimberly Knight after a video surfaced on her fetish pornography website purporting to be of a medical doctor performing a breast-enlargement procedure and then immediately having sex with the patient. KTNV-TV has questioned Knight on the authenticity of the claims, and she seemed to back off slightly, describing the surgeon as a “medical student,” then characterizing the whole thing as a “mistake.” As of early December, Knight had not been charged with a crime.

The Finer Points of the Law

— Justice! In September, federal judge Cathy Seibel ordered the town of Liberty, New York (100 miles from New York City), to stand trial for failure to teach police and prosecutors proper free-speech law — thus giving plaintiff Willian Barboza revenge for his arrest for writing a “crude” message on the speeding ticket he paid three years ago. Seibel ruled that Bar-

boza’s phrase (urging intercourse upon the manure-like town) posed no “imminent” threat and, besides, was obviously just a complaint about government services. Seibel also raised the possibility that money damages will come from the prosecutor’s own pocket.

— Dr. Bilgin Ciftci was fired in October from Turkey’s Public Health Institution and later charged with violating one of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s favorite laws — against “insulting” the president (which carries a maximum four-year prison term) — because Ciftci had joined a Turkish Facebook thread that was denouncing Erdogan with facial images comparing him to the “Lord of the Rings” character Gollum. The judge, admitting his unfamiliarity, appointed a five-person group of experts to advise him whether the Erdogan-Gollum comparison was “insulting.” (“The Lord of the Rings” film director Peter Jackson immediately protested that the images depict not Gollum but his benign alter ego Smeagol, making the comparison obviously uninsulting.)

— Once again, someone minding his own business here became royalty elsewhere.

This time, it was a 32-year-old Vancouver, British Columbia, man with a wife and baby, working as a gardener — until he learned that a 6,000-person tribe in Ghana wanted him for their king. Thus, Eric Manu, a nephew of the king who died in 2013, was asked in July 2015 to come take over (part-time, at least), and by tradition, Manu’s Canadian wife will join him as queen (“mother of all mothers”). Eric said the couple will do whatever they can to improve lives in their village.

— Achan Agit presents a worst-case scenario for the weirdness in how some state governments over-regulate professions, and she is currently suing the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences for burdening her right to make a living. As Forbes.com reported in October, Achan was a war refugee from what is currently South Sudan and is now a permanent resident of the United States — and skilled in braiding hair, which she learned from elders when she was 5. However, a licensed braider in Iowa (maximum penalty if caught

unlicensed: prison, plus a $10,000 fine) needs a high school diploma or equivalent and 2,100 hours of cosmetology coursework — more than the combined training for dental assistants, bus drivers, EMTs, child care workers and security guards — and for which Iowa’s 27 cosmetology “schools” might charge up to $22,000.

— Undignified Death: On Dec. 2, a 48-yearold woman in Alicante, Spain, who according to neighbors had suffered from depression and was likely trying to commit suicide, leaped from her seventh-floor balcony — but failed.

She was hospitalized in stable condition after landing on an elderly gentleman sitting on a bench (who did not survive the collision).

A News of the Weird Classic (April 2011)

Scientists Just Wanna Have Fun: A team of whimsy-loving researchers at the University of Osaka (Japan) Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences has produced a strain of mice prone to “miscopying” DNA — making them susceptible to sometimesunexpected mutations, such as the recently born mouse that tweets like a bird.

Lead researcher Arikuni Uchimura told London’s Daily Telegraph that he had expected to produce, instead, a mouse with an odd shape, but the “singing” mouse emerged. Previously, the team produced a mouse with dachshund-like short limbs.

The Job of the Researcher

— Scientists from Australia’s University of Queensland have developed “swimsuits” to act as diapers for six giant loggerhead turtles as they study their diets by examining their feces. “To our great surprise,” said one researcher, they “worked perfectly.” The suits were easy to put on, comfortable for the sea turtles to wear (according to the researchers, not the turtles), looked great (ditto), and we were “able to collect the entire fecal sample,” he bragged to a London Daily Telegraph reporter in Sydney.

— After all, leeches are interesting and thus someone has to study them, and Mark Siddall, curator of invertebrates at the American Museum of Natural History, is that person.

These leeches are easily found, but only in the rear ends of hippopotamuses, he noted, and told Wired.com in August that if a creature can exploit a niche others cannot, it has a monopoly on food. “The only part on the hippo that’s vascularized enough to get a good blood meal (is) the rectal region.” (Making life worse for these leeches, they lack the strong jaws of other leeches and must instead use a noselike organ that, writes Wired, it “snakes” into the vascular tissue.)

Least Competent Criminals

Damon Matthews, 19, surrendered to police in Bay City, Michigan, in November and con-

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 7

arts>>music

Close to Home:

Rural North Carolina roots run deep within Time Sawyer by: shannon rae gentry

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TIME FOR FOLK: North Carolina sons of Time Sawyer are headed to Bourgie Nights on Sat., Dec. 19, with Massive Grass and Chasing Opal. Courtesy photo

ocal fans of The Avett Brothers have something to talk about with another Tar Heel State band, Time Sawyer, who are coming to downtown’s Bourgie Nights on Dec. 19. The young Americana, folk, alt-country enthusiasts cite North Carolina’s favorite sons as some of their greatest inspirations musically. As a matter of fact, Time Sawyer just played an official afterparty for the Cheerwine Legendary Giveback Concert, which featured the Concord-born-and-bred Avetts on Dec. 4 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

the time,” banjoist Houston Norris admits.

“It was the Halloween show in 2007 in Greensboro, and I was so against going … but then I was hooked from that point.”

“I got drug to my first [Avett Brothers] show I ever went to by my girlfriend at

The banjo is a technical instrument, as Norris notes, there’s a right way and

Norris came out with not only an appreciation and interest in a new band, but also found a role model for the instrument he would soon master: the banjo. “Seeing Scott Avett’s style of playing is kind of what got me into it,” he tells. “I grew up in a big bluegrass family, so I was always around the banjo and things like that, but it was very intimidating.”

8 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

wrong way of playing it. Observing the oldest Avett brother’s simplistic and notquite-traditional style of playing got Norris thinking that maybe he could handle the instrument after all.

Norris and co-founding members Sam Tayloe (guitar, lead vocals, harmonica), Kurt Layell (lead guitar, vocals) and Clay Stirewalt (percussion) originally hail from Elkin, NC, but became tight once they all moved off to college at UNC-Charlotte in 2008. In their second year of school, Tayloe and Layell began writing songs a few months into the formation of what would become Time Sawyer by 2010.

Though Norris and Tayloe are definitely drawn to “underground” folk, Layell is influenced by alternative rock bands like Incubus. “I think it gives our music a different angle … kind of two different ends of the spectrum where we meet and join things together,” Norris says. “Sam and Kurt pretty much do all of the lyrical writing of a song and basic melody. . . .We just kind of build them from there.”

Their most recent album, “Disguise the Limit,” came out in 2014. It’s the fifth the band has put out since their inception.

The cover is an illustrated image of drummer Clay Stirewalt, whose impressive curly locks usually get less attention on

stage. So they decided to put him front and center for once. The play on words in the title, however, was inspired by something less centered on reality. “Kurt had a dream of us promoting the new album, and on a billboard it said: ‘Disguise the Limit,’” Norris tells. “He just threw that out and it just stuck.”

The first track on the record, “Appalachian Bound,” has been getting the most air time on local radio in the Queen City. “The alternative rock station of all places,” Norris quips. “It’s a moonshine song, [and] since we all grew up in the mountains of North Carolina it hits close to home.”

Alongside the song “Working Construction,” Time Sawyer’s catalog may seem best suited for honky tonks. The music is fun, and packed with gritty, country grooves. “A Far Away Farewell From Rose” gets the attention of most live crowds. Its uptempo beat mirrors a brisk walk down a dirt road of reflection and young love. Time Sawyer’s live rendition is a bit different from their recorded version.

“We’ve kind of built upon [the song],” Norris divulges. “We’ve a got [Bob Barone] playing pedal-steel guitar who plays it with us live … and we’ve always said it was one of the biggest mistakes we made in recording: not putting the pedal steel on the song.”

Bob Barone and Harry Kollm (bass) have been playing with Time Sawyer on tour for a while now. They add new and valuable elements to songs and serve as permanent fixtures to the band. “We’ve gotten to a point where we can financially make it worth their time,” Norris adds jokingly.

Following Norris thesis that almost every band has a “murder song,” Time Sawyers is “210.” It spawned from a long night in Knoxville—and a persistent heckler in the front row at one of their shows.

“He just kept asking for a ‘murder song,’” he recalls. “We got this one written, and it’s one that continues to build and evolve—and from the feedback of fans, it seems to be a favorite.”

“At the time they asked us to come play for 45 minutes, and we thought it would be easy, not realizing that the four or five

Today, the band has more than enough material. They’re also looking forward to adding to their repertoire soon. The first two albums, “Time for a Change” and “Time Sawyer (The Maroon Album),” came out within 7 months of each other.

“Come On In” was released in May 2012 and “Headed Home” followed less than a year later.

“This has been the longest down period we’ve had [with writing],” Norris admits, “but it’s been anything but a down period.

We finally started making time to get together on new songs and polish them up.

We’ve got a date set up around the first of the year where we’ll start recording a new CD over at a studio called Echo Mountain [in Asheville, NC].”

They’ll be collaborating for the first time with Mike Ashworth, producer, session performer and touring artist, best known for his work with bluegrass group Steep Canyon Rangers. At this stage Time Sawyer started going through some rough demos of the songs, hoping to record by the end of January.

“We see this as turning a new corner and jumping into a new realm of recording we haven’t done before, so we’re excited to see how it works out,” Norris says.

Time Sawyer is set to play at Bourgie Nights on Saturday, Dec. 19, with openers Massive Grass and Chasing Opal. Advance tickets can be found online at www. brownpapertickets.com/event/2406080.

DETAILS:

Time Sawyer Openers: Massive Grass and Chasing Opal Saturday, Dec. 19 Doors: 8:30 p.m.

Show: 9:30 p.m.

Bourgie Nights 127 Princess St. Tickets: $7 adv, $10 door

! s l a e d .com

The stories behind most of the band’s lyrics revolve around love. Some obvious meanings can be inferred from them, but most of Tayloe’s writing utilizes metaphors.

Also heard are references to growing up in the foothills of North Carolina. Back in early years of playing and recording their first album “Time For A Change” (2011), most of the songwriting was based on the local muses of rural Elkin. The song, “Slightly Askew,” for example, is named after a local winery. It’s also where Time Sawyer played their first gig ever—though it didn’t go quite as expected.

songs we knew would only take like 15 minutes,” Norris laughs. “A lot of times during practices our drummer and guitarist will play a funky jazz beat back and forth … so we had [Stirewalt and Layell] play that while me and Sam went out into the crowd for a dance break.”

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 9

arts>>music

The Song of Holiday Giving:

L Shape Lot’s annual Toys for Tots fundraising concert continues to grow

by: Shannon Rae Gentry

T

he last recording local Americana group L Shape Lot did was in July 2015. It was a single, “Beautiful Day (Bound To Run),” used in Dock Street Productions’ local film, “Finding Home” (a movie about adoption and what makes a home). While there are no new projects or full-length albums in the near future for members Eric Miller (acoustic guitar and vocals), Alex Lanier (electric/acoustic guitar and vocals), Mykel Barbee (drums), and Rick Williams (bass and vocals), L Shape Lot has plenty on their plate. This holiday season, for example, marks their fourth annual Toys for Tots fundraiser at the Brooklyn Arts Center (BAC) on Sat., Dec. 19.

What started off as a modest event—just big enough for the Wild Wing Cafe stage on Military Cutoff in its first two years—has grown to host hundreds of supporters for the music and cause. encore had a chance

to discuss the evolution of the event and what’s new this year with L Shape Lot’s lead singer and guitarist—as well as disc jockey on 98.3 The Penguin—Eric Miller. encore (e): What’s the personal connection for the band and the cause? Why Toys for Tots each year?

Eric Miller (EM): Well, we have just been so blessed to receive so much support over the years, that using it to help others seems right. Toys for Tots is a way to do just that.

Plus it’s a lot of fun: getting toys collected to help children have a better Christmas. It’s something we all enjoy doing. e: It continues to grow as well. Aside from the venue change, can you tell us how else this has evolved over the years?

EM: Every year has grown from the previous—in attendance and toys collected.

Last year, we tied it in with [our previous drummer] John [Kovalski]’s farewell. We really wanted to show him a proper goodbye. The BAC is a beautiful venue, so we made that move. It was a grand time. We were able to raise about $10,000 worth of toys, [and] you could really feel the magic in the room. And with BAC executive director Rich [Leder]’s motivation, we are going for it again this year.

FUNDRAISING FUN: L Shape Lot will return to the BAC for their fourth annual Toys For Tots concert. Courtesy photo.

There was a neat, little pink bike with matching mohawk helmet that was donated two years ago, [which] always sticks out in my mind. It was pretty rad.

e: Just out of curiosity: What was your most memorable Christmas gift as a e: In addition to toys, do ticket pro- child? ceeds go toward fundraising or is that EM: I really wanted a metal detector when separate?

I was young boy. I was big into treasure EM: We have accepted some cash dona- hunting and was convinced I was going to tions over the years from people who can’t find some in the front yard. I never found make the event and wanted to contribute. treasure, but i did find a few coins. Also, I Ticket sales are a separate entity, and am gamer, so my first Nintendo entertainmainly go toward the cost of production for ment system was a big deal for me. the event. It is a tad, at least for me, intimie: The band has gone through a lot of dating to put a full production event at the changes in the past year. What can folks BAC. There is a lot of overhead behind the expect of old favorites and new music? scenes to make the show go on.

EM: Replacing founding member [John e: In your opinion and experience, Kovalski], our drummer who played with us what are some of the best or most apfor 15 years, was not something we were propriate items folks should consider looking forward to, but it has worked out. bringing?

Mykel Barbee is now behind the kit and is EM: Any and all, new and unwrapped fitting in very well. We are all very happy he toys, are so appreciated. We have a grown has joined [and] we’re pleased with what he to have a relationship with the Toys for Tots brings to the table, musically and as a perfolks. Their volunteers are phenomenal and son. Working up 15 years worth of music so very kind. We meet with them recently with a new drummer is a task in itself, but and they mentioned that the 0-2 age groups it’s going well. With a new drummer brings and 10-13 age groups sometimes have a new energy and creativity. So some classic little less collected than others, so that could tunes may sound a little different, just a new be a idea for some people. But, again, any twist here and there. We are also bringing and all donations make a huge difference. guest musicians to join us for the night.

10 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

e: Can you clue us in on who those guest performers are?

EM: One is my good friend, Brian Edmonson, from the Oak Grove String Band out of Charlotte, NC. He’s playing banjo with us.

The other is another friend, Lindsey Tims, a fiddle player from Raleigh, but he has had some potential conflicts arise, and may or may not be there. He may be replaced by another fiddle player or a dobro player. That is yet to be determined. e: How did Rebekah Todd and the Odyssey get on board for this year’s benefit?

EM: We met Rebekah some years ago at an event we played in Greenville, NC. I was immediately a fan. What talent she has— wow. We reconnected and have become good friends over the last year or so, spending a good amount of time at the Hourglass Studios’ Open Mic at the Goat and Compass. We wanted to share the night with some good friends, as well as good musical talent, so she was just a perfect fit.

DETAILS:

L Shape Lot Toys for Tots Fundraiser Saturday, Dec. 19 Doors: 6:30 p.m.; Show: 7:30pm Brooklyn Arts Center 516 N. 4th St. Tickets: $10 Bring wrapped or unwrapped toy for donation

a preview of events across town this week

the soundboard

Brought to you by:

encore magazine

ALT ROCK: Sleepwave is set to perform at Ziggy’s By The Sea (208 Market St.) on Tuesday, Dec. 22. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and tickets range from $12-$25. Courtesy photo.

Wednesday, December 16 Mystery Music Wednesday (3pm; Free) —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Open Mic (6:30pm; Free)

—Addicted to the Bean, 1207 S. Kerr Ave.

James Jarvis, Jazz Piano (7pm; Free)

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

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

Open-Mic (7:30pm; Free)

—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040

Pool Night (10pm; Free)

—Banks Channel Pub & Grille, 530 Causeway Dr.

Tatsuya Nakatani & Michel Doneda (8pm; $10) —Squidco Records, 928 N. 4th St.

Jazz Night (8pm; Free)

—Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St.

Xan & Nel$on (8pm; Cover TBD; Rock) —The Whiskey Bar NC, 1 S. Front St.

Kim Dicso (9pm; Free)

—Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.

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Thursday, December 17 Sea Pans Steel Drums (6pm; Free)

—Holiday Inn Resort, 1706 N. Lumina Ave.

Clay Crotts (6:30pm; Free; Acoustic) —Goat & Compass, 710 N. 4th St.

Firedrums Night (8pm; Free)

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

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

and be the first to know about the best deals around town

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 11

W I N N E R

Wrightsville Beach, NC

LIVE MUSIC thurs

dec 17 fri

sea pans steel drums 6pm - 8pm

l shape lot

dec 18

Acoustic Mix, 7pm - 10pm

sat

mike o’donnell

dec 19 sat

dec 26

Dance & Classic, 7pm - 10pm

randy mcquay

Dance & Classic, 7pm - 10pm

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

www.RuckerJohns.com VISIT WWW.RUCKERJOHNS.COM FOR FRIDAY MONDAY DAILY SPECIALS, MUSIC & EVENTS Select Appetizers halfMONDAY off $ 4 Cosmopolitan $ 2 Big Domestic Draft Beers $550 Watermelon Martini $ 95 22oz. Domestic Draft ALL DAY 4 RJ's Coffee $ 3 Sam Adams and Blue $5 Pizzas Moon Seasonal Bottles TUESDAY TUESDAY 1/2 off Select Bottles SATURDAY LIVE JAzz IN THE BAR of Wine $ $ 6 All Southern Half Price Bottles of Wine Shiners 5 Absolut Dreams 50 $ Blue$2Moon Draft 3 NC Brewed Bottles • Pacifico Absolut Dream $$5$503-22oz 2 Select Domestic Bottles WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY SUNDAY 1/2 offMiller Nachos Light Pints $150$ Coronoa/ $ 50 5 All$2Flat 50 Breads 1 Domestic Pints Lite Bottles Corona $ 50 $4 Bloody$ Marys 2 Corona/Corona Lt. Margaritas/Peach Margaritas 4 Pints $ 50 $ 50 1 Domestic 4 Frozen Margarita $ 5 White Russians THURSDAY (pick your flavor) Visit our $website Appletinis $4, RJ’s Painkiller 5

THURSDAY www.RuckerJohns.com $ 50 2 Red Stripe for Bottles daily specials, music and 2 Fat Tire Bottles $ 50 2 Fat Tire Bottles upcoming events $ 50 2 Flying Dog IPA 1/2 off ALL Red WineFRIDAY5564 Carolina $ 50 Glasses Cosmos $4, 007 Beach 3 Road $ 50

$ (910)-452-1212 3 Guinness Cans Island Sunsets $5 SATURDAY 100 S. FRONT ST. $ Baybreeze/Seabreeze 4 22oz. Blue Moon 910-251-1832 Draft $3 LIVE MUSIC $ 2 Select Domestic Bottles in the courtyard SUNDAY7 days a week $ Bloody Marys 4, Domestic MONDAY S.I.N. NIGHT $2 Domestics • $3 All Draft Selections Pints $150 • $4 Flavored Bombs 50% off Apps 6pm $til Hurricanes 5 close

NEW BELGIUM TUESDAY Carolina Beach Road, $3 New5564 Belgium selections (Fat Tire, Ranger IPA) (910) 452-1212 $5 Jameson • Wing Special WEDNESDAY $2.75 Miller Lite, $4 Wells, Half off All Bottles of wine Live Music @ 8pm THIRSTY THURSDAY $2.50 PBR 16oz cans $3.50 Sam Adams Seasonal & Hoppyum Pints $5 Redbull & Vodka, 50¢ Steamed Oysters and Shrimp FRIDAY $2.75 Michelob Ultra • $3.25 Stella $4.50 José Cuervo Silver • Live Music on the Patio SATURDAY $2.75 Red Stripe • $4.50 Evan Williams Cherry Reel Cafe Rooftop Concert Series SUNDAY $3 Coronas/Corona Lite • $10 Domestic Buckets (5) $4 Mimosas • $4 Bloody Mary’s

ABOVE: Don’t miss Chatham County Line’s return to the Port City for a performance at Ziggy’s By The Sea (208 Market St.) on Dec. 17. Photo by Michael Podrid

Driskill (8pm; Free; Folk)

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

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

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

TRIVIA WITH STEVE

—Duck n Dive, 114 Dock St.

Open Jam Christmas Edition (8pm; Cover TBD) —The Whiskey Bar NC, 1 S. Front St.

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

Chatham County Line (8pm; $17-$25; Bluegrass)

LIVE __________________________________________ MUSIC

Acoustic Blues Jam (8pm; $3)

Friday ____________________________________________ Sunday

BREAKFAST BUFFET

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

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

12 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

—Ziggy’s By The Sea, 208 Market St.; 910-769-4096 —Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.

Brooke Thompson (9pm; Free; R&B)

—Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.

Foxbait, Plastic Tiger, SloMo Dingo (9pm; $5)

—Reggies 42nd Street Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.

Roger Davis Live Music (7pm; Free)

—Fermental, 7250 Market St.; 910-821-0362

Friday, December 18 L Shape Lot (7pm; Free; Acoustic)

—Holiday Inn Resort, 1706 N. Lumina Ave.

Girls’ Choir of Wilmington (7pm; Donations)

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

Ben Kronberg (7pm; $15-$19; Comedy)

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

Michael Daughtry (8pm; Free; Acoustic)

—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 122 Princess St.

A Yuletide Swing A Night (8pm; $7-$10; Jazz) —Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

Coy, Innerout, And Trucks (9pm; $5; Eclectic)

—Reggies 42nd Street Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.; 910-799-6465

Alternative Vision (9:30pm; Free; Rock)

CB Johnson (9pm; Free; Acoustic)

Ben Kronberg (9:30pm; $15-$19; Comedy)

DJ Reign (10pm; Free)

—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040 —Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.

—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040 —Beach House Bar ‘n’ Grill, 7219 Market St.

Heather Rogers (10pm; Free; Acoustic)

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

Monday, December 21

Blues and Jazz Night (9pm; Free)

Tallis Chamber Orchestra (7:30pm; Free)

—Bombers Bev Co., 108 Grace St.

—St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 16 N. 16th St.

Justin Cody Fox (10pm; Free; Acoustic)

Music & Comedy Open Mic (8pm; Free)

—Duck n Dive, 114 Dock St.

—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Live Music in the Garden (6pm; Free)

Brewtal and Friends (8pm; Cover TBD; Electric)

—A Tasting Room, 19 S. 2nd St.

—The Whiskey Bar NC, 1 S. Front St.

Kyle Lindley (8pm; Free; Acoustic)

Heather Rogers (9pm; Free)

—Fermental, 7250 Market St.; 910-821-0362

Groove Fetish Christmas Jam (8pm; Cover TBD) —The Whiskey Bar NC, 1 S. Front St.

The Nitrogen Tone (9pm; $5; Funk) —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Saturday, December 19 Jazz Piano (6pm; Free)

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

Live Music in the Garden (6pm; Free)

Tuesday, December 22 Sleepwave (7:30pm; $12-$25; Alternative) —Ziggy’s By The Sea, 208 Market St.; 910-769-4096

Trivia Night (8pm; Free)

—Banks Channel Pub & Grille, 530 Causeway Dr.

College Karaoke (9pm; Free)

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

Mike O’Donnell (7pm; Free; Dance)

Noctomb, The Calm Lands and Toke (9pm; $5)

Ben Kronberg (7pm; $15-$19)

showstoppers

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

—A Tasting Room, 19 S. 2nd St.

—Holiday Inn Resort, 1706 N. Lumina Ave.

concerts outside of southeastern nc

—Reggies 42nd Street Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.; 910-799-6465

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

L Shape Lot Christmas Concert (7:30pm; $10) —Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N. 4th St.

Michael Eakins (8pm; Free; Acoustic)

—Fermental, 7250 Market St.; 910-821-0362

Dr. Bacon (8pm; Cover TBA; Funk)

—The Whiskey Bar NC, 1 S. Front St.

Time Sawyer and more (8:30pm; $7-$10; Folk) —Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

Dave Fields (9pm; $10; Blues) —Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.

Youth League, Waul & Villain Reggie’s (9pm; $5) —Reggies 42nd Street Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.

Just Friends (9pm; Free; Folk)

—Goat & Compass, 710 N. 4th St.

Wednesday, December 23 Open Mic (6:30pm; Free)

—Addicted to the Bean, 1207 S. Kerr Ave.

James Jarvis, Jazz Piano (7pm; Free)

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

Jazz Night (8pm; Free)

—Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St.

Bar LoCal’s Christmas Party (8pm; Free) —Bellas Bar LoCAL, 19 Market St.

Pool Night (10pm; Free)

—Banks Channel Pub & Grille, 530 Causeway Dr.

Mystery Music Wednesday (3pm; Free) —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223

Ben Kronberg (9:30pm; $15-$19; Comedy)

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

Jenny Pearson (10pm; Free; Acoustic)

Thursday, December 24

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

Kirtan (7:30pm; $15; Acoustic)

Josh Solomon (10:30pm; Free; Alternative)

Firedrums Night (8pm; Free)

—Duck n Dive, 114 Dock St.

—Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr. #200 —Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

Chris James (10pm; Free; Country)

Sunday, December 20

—Costello’s Piano Bar, 211 Princess St.

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

—Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.

Friday, December 25

Sunday Bluegrass (6pm; Free)

Live Music in the Garden (6pm; Free)

—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.; 910-399-2796

—A Tasting Room, 19 S. 2nd St.

Three Metal Bands (8pm; $3)

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

—The Whiskey Bar NC, 1 S. Front St.

Brooke Thompson (9pm; Free; R&B)

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

Tom & Jane (10pm; Free)

SOMETHING BIG: See Big Something with Groove Fetish before the New Year at Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh on Dec. 31. Courtesy photo NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE NORTH DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 12/17: Rising Appalachia’s 12/30: Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., Charlotte, NC (704) 916-8970 12/16: Awolnation, Metrio and Grizfolk 12/17: Between The Buried And Me and more 12/30: Zomboy AMOS’ SOUTHEND 1423 SOUTH TRYON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 377-6874 12/16: Every Time I Die, Polyphia and more 12/18: Rock Machines 12/19: The Arcs and Mariachi Flor de Toloache 12/26: Holly Day Concert Series MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE., durham, NC (919) 901-0875 12/18: A Muscle Shoals Musical Revue 12/26: Nevy, PlayPlay, Shahzad and Treee City 12/27: The Bondsmen with Thee Dirtybeats LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. Cabarrus st., raleigh, nc (919) 821-4111 12/18: Rebel Son, Dave Schneider Band and more 12/27: Nantucket, Monika Jaymes and Blue Flame 12/31: Big Something with Groove Fetish

CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN St., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 12/18: Wyatt Easterling and Laurelyn Dossett 12/19: Bombadil and Kingsley Flood 12/19: Chathem County Line (Haw River Ballroom) 12/19: Red Collar and more (Back Room) 12/21: Big Fat Gap (Back Room) THE ORANGE PEEL 101 bILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 12/16: Wizards Of Winter 12/19: A Path Untold, Aligning Minds and more 12/31: RJD2, Transputer and Selector Cleofus GREENSBORO COLISEUM 1921 WEST LEE ST., GREENSBORO, NC (336) 373-7400 12/31: The Avett Brothers HOUSE OF BLUES MYRTLE BEACH 4640 Hwy 17 S., Myrtle Beach, SC (843) 272-3000 12/18: Jeff Thomas 12/19: Jeremiah Reyes 12/26: Stan Gregory 12/27: Rumours 12/31: Corey Smith

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 13

arts>>art

Exhibits and shows not to Miss: What to check out on the local art scene before the new year

by: shannon rae gentry

A

s the end of 2015 draws near, we thought it would be a good time for a reminder of current exhibits and upcoming showcases of original art not to miss. Whether just looking to browse the work of local artists or buy the perfect last-minute local gift, we’ve got some artsy ways to fill the holidays.

Paper & Paint Featuring work by Kathy Stovall and Joan McLoughlin Now through Feb. 12 • Free MC Erny Gallery 245 N. Front St.

Since November 27 the MC Erny Gallery has had “Paper & Paint” on display.

Featuring work by Kathy Stovall and Joan

McLoughlin, each artist has brought her own abstract flair to the gallery. Kathy Stovall is a NC native who specializes in collage, abstract and monoprint. Contemporary painter and New York-born artist Joan McLoughlin currently works in acrylics.

While the show will officially close on February 12, the Closing Fourth Friday Reception is set for Friday, Jan. 22, from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. The gallery is located in WHQR’s studio in The Warwick Building (245 N. Front St.). The gallery is regulalry open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.

- 4 p.m. Call WHQR at 910343-1640 for more information or visit http://whqr.org/paperpaint-work-kathy-stovall-andjoan-mcloughlin.

ENERGIZED: Artists Kathy Stovall and Joan McLoughlin (work above) are currently featured in ‘Paper & Paint’ at MC Erny Gallery.

Courtesy photo

Brooklyn Arts District Pop Up

Saturday, Dec. 19, 11 a.m. • Free Detour Deli & Cafe 510 1/2 Red Cross St.

SURFING THE WILMINGTON AREA FOR 30 YEARS COME CHECK OUT OUR LARGE SELECTION OF SURFBOARDS, SKATEBOARDS, APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES!

Keep the Christmas giving spirit local and buy something special and unique for the holidays. Local artists will have work on display and for sale at the Brooklyn Arts District Pop Up at Detour Deli on Red Cross Street. Party in style with Forge & Foundry. Find fun jewelry by Bernice Desmond, or sniff out a deal from Kristy McKnight’s candles and prints. Mushpa and Mensa will have unique tees and more from their magical mobile art machine. Local artists Mark Herbert and Nicolle Nicolle will be around with their unique works.

There’s also a lineup of live music by local musicians, Pet Names, Death by Fireworxxx with Emma Nelson and Evan Baker, Dylan Drake, and Austin Glover. Not to mention DJ Ol’ Filthy Sweaty. See more on their Facebook event page.

HotWaxSurfShop.com 4510 Hoggard Dr. • (910) 791-9283 14 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

Winter Works on Paper Exhibit Now through January 30 • Free Costello’s Piano Bar

211 Princess St.

Already done with Christmas shopping?

Take a reprieve from the holiday hustle and bustle with local artist Janette K. Hopper. Using museum-quality papers, Hopper created a world of serenity and quiet with watercolors and monoprints in “Winter Works on Paper.” The show is on view in downtown Wilmington’s Costello’s, which often hosts live music nightly, Mon.-Sun., from 7 p.m. - 2 a.m. Visit www.costellospianobar.com for more information.

Peace Rose Art Exhibit: Homes Fri., Dec. 18, 6 p.m. • Free Luna Caffe 604 Castle St.

Elementary students of Peace Rose Montessori School created pieces inspired by the theme of “Home.” Ages 6 to 9, the student artists created collaborative art work that will be on display at Luna Caffe on Castle Street until the end of December.

In conjunction with the exhibit, donations will be collected for Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity at the Dec. 18 artist reception,. Free wine samples and coffee will be available, while smoothies and other goodies will be available for purchase.

Visit the Facebook event page for details.

See other ongoing exhibits and events listed in our calendar pages or online at encorepub.com.

what’s hanging around the port city

galleryguide Artfuel.inc

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

ArtExposure!

22527 Highway 17N, Hampstead, NC (910) 803-0302 • (910) 330-4077 Tues. - Sat. 10 am - 5 pm (or by appt.) www.artexposure50.com ArtExposure will be closed from December 24th through January 4th. We will reopen on January 5th 2016. We are offering the following classes starting in January: January 5th through February 9th: Mixed Media with Mary Ann Rozear. Tuesdays 10am-5pm.

6 weeks January 12th through February 16th: Beginning/Intermediate Drawing with Patti Chisholm.

Tuesdays 2pm-4pm. 6 week January 12th through February 16th: Beginning/Intermediate Drawing with Patti Chisholm.

Tuesdays 6pm-8pm. 6 weeks.

Call to schedule a Paint by Wine or Wine and Crafts class with your friends or family.

Art in bloom

210 Princess St. Tues. - Sat. 10 am - 6 pm (or by appt., Sun. and Mon.) (484) 885-3037 www.art-in-bloom-gallery.com Stop by Art in Bloom Gallery at 210 Princess Street to view fine art by Elizabeth Darrow (oil and collage on canvas), Traudi Thornton (ceramist), David Klinger (wooden boxes), Matthew Leavell (sculptor), Debra Bucci (oil on canvas), and other artists.

New Elements Gallery

201 Princess St. (919) 343-8997 Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) www.newelementsgallery.com The 31st Annual Holiday Show features new work from the gallery’s talented roster of artists.

This year’s holiday show will benefit The Carousel Center, a Wilmington non-profit dedicated to providing safe spaces for abused and neglected children. New Elements Gallery will host an opening reception on November 27th, from 6pm

to 9pm, in conjunction with Downtown Wilmington’s Fourth Friday Gallery Night. The 31st Annual Holiday Show will remain on view until January 22, 2016. See previous page for full article.

River to Sea Gallery

225 S. Water St., Chandler’s Wharf (free parking) • (910) 763-3380 Tues.- Sat. 11am - 5pm; Sun. 1- 4pm River to Sea Gallery showcases the work of husband and wife Tim and Rebecca Duffy Bush. In addition, the gallery represents several local artists. The current show will enthrall visitors with its eclectic collection of original paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, pottery and jewelry. “Morning Has Broken” features works by Janet Parker. Come see Janet’s bold use of color and texture to reveal local marsh creeks and structures.

SUNSET RIVER Marketplace

10283 Beach Dr., SW (NC 179) (910) 575-5999 • Tues.- Sat. 10 am - 5 pm www.sunsetrivermarketplace.com In the historic fishing village of Calabash, NC, over 10,000-plus square feet of fine arts is showcased. Clay art and pottery; oil paintings, water-

colors, mixed media, pastels and acrylics; plus award-winning metalworks, wood pieces, handblown glass, fiber art, artisan-made jewelry and more. Sunset River Marketplace has become a popular destination for visitors, a gathering place for artists and a center of the community, thanks to its onsite pottery studio, complete with two kilns; a custom master framing department; and art classrooms for workshops and ongoing instruction.

WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY

200 Hanover Street, CFCC parking deck First level Tues.- Fri., 10am - 5:30pm; Sat., noon - 5:30pm (910) 362-7431 Wilma W. Daniels Gallery is pleased to present the 2015 No Boundaries International Art Colony Exhibition. No Boundaries, a nonprofit artist residency program, provides artists from around the world and the local community a forum for free expression and cross-cultural dialogue. This year’s participating artists are Nii Narku (Ghana), Rusudan Khizanishvili (Georgia), Michelle Connolly (Australia), Lázaro Salsita (Cuba), Myrna Pronchuk (Canada), Ana Young (Australia), Iandry Randriamandroso (Madagascar/USA), Fritzi Huber (NC, USA), Kirah Van Sickle (NC, USA), Christopher “Topher” Alexander (NC, USA) and Mark Weber (NC, USA). Exhibition runs through December 31st, 2015 and is free and open to the public. Contact Sarah Rushing at srushing278@mail.cfcc.edu.

BrooklynArtsNC.com 910-538-2939

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

516 North 4th Street | Historic Downtown Wilmington, NC

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 15

16 encore |december 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

arts>>theatre

CELEBRATION OF FAMILY:

Despite sound issues, ‘Mame’ is campy fun and with a lot of heart

by: GWENYFAR ROHLER

T

halian Association offers a slightly different take on the holiday show this year: “Mame,” the musical adaptation of “Auntie Mame,” on the Main Stage of Thalian Hall. Originally published as a novel in 1955, “Auntie Mame” took the country by storm and spent 112 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller List.

In 1956, fresh from the success of “Inherit The Wind,” the writing team of Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee adapted the novel for the stage, and then in 1958 they did the film. Both starred Rosalind Russell, the woman who epitomizes Auntie Mame in every way. Russell garnered multiple awards and nominations for the role both on stage and film. Eight years later, Jerry Harmon added a musical score to Lawrence and Lee’s adaptation and “Mame” opened on Broadway as a musical starring Angela Lansbury in the title role.

An ill-fated film adaptation with Lucile Ball followed some years later and is perhaps best forgotten. The musical adaptation is—much like Harmon’s other big success, “Hello Dolly!”—a big ensemble piece.

It revolves around a big-hearted, big-spirited woman and the excitement she brings to the world around her.

Adapting a piece across artistic genres requires the understanding that the conventions of one mode do not work for another. The novel is written sort of like Reader’s Digest vignettes that recount the mad-cap adventures of a crazy aunt. The play and film (which are my favorite) really flesh out the plot arc about Auntie Mame’s nephew, Patrick, and his upbringing. The musical must work within the constraints of the form, and therefore consolidates some of the characters and the action.

On stage, the show opens in Manhattan in the late 1920’s, with Agnes Gooch (Katie Vilecco) delivering the recently orphaned young Patrick Denis (Quinn Gonzalez) to his new guardian, Auntie Mame (Jamie Schraff).

By Gooch’s Midwestern spinster standards, Manhattan is clearly a den of inequity, as she explains in the number “St. Bridget,” a prayer for protection and guidance. It is our first indication that Vilecco and Gonzaelz both have great comedic delivery. Things go from bad to worse when they finally find number 3 Beekman Place, only to discover a bootlegger-sponsored cocktail party in full swing during the Prohibition Era. Gore Vidal once

commented that every woman he knew from Anias Nin to his mother claimed to be the inspiration for Auntie Mame. There is a reason why: She’s glamorous, the life of every party and on the right side of history and philanthropy. Her perfect foil is Dwight Babcock (Stuart Pike), of the Knickerbocker Bank, who has been appointed Patrick’s trustee. Thus begins a war for Patrick’s soul: Will he be a sheltered, restricted, racist, anti-Semitic, country club banker, or will he be a free-thinking artist, with a love of life and friends across the spectrum of humanity?

Along the way the stock market crash of 1929 wipes out Mame’s financial resources and the confirmed bachelorette meets the man of her dreams, Beauregard Jackson Picket Burnside (Bob Workman). Truly, the hunt scene at Peckerwood (Beau’s Plantation) is one of my favorites.

Patrick and Katie Vilecco as Agnes Gooch.

Both got deserved show-stopping ovation for “Gooch’s Song” in Act Two. Perhaps Chris Brown as Mother Burnside gave my favorite cameo appearance. Brown manages to exude an awfulness and command of an extended family that must be seen to be understood. Jared Jones as the older Patrick also is noteworthy, along with his unexpected sidekick, Jonathan Maultsby.

In spite of sound troubles, the man next to me had a great night singing along with the performers (and at times filling in when we couldn’t hear the stage). And that’s what this show is about: fun—fun with life, fun with friends, fun and joy in all guises. Herman’s score captures that, and Lawrence and Lee make Auntie Mame one of the first and truly surprising icons of feminism.

How do we define family? Who do we choose to include in our lives? What do we gain and lose by these choices? What are we missing because we are scared to meet someone new and try something that might scare us— whether it is pickled python for hors d’oeuvre or enjoying modern dance? Hopefully, by this weekend, the sound issues are worked out so lots of people will take their kids to enjoy this campy, joyous ‘60s musical. It truly celebrates family in its many forms at the holidays.

DETAILS: Mame

December 10-20, 7:30 p.m., Thurs.-Sat.; 3 p.m., Sun. Tickets: $15-$30 Thalian Hall 310 Chestnut St. Though the script is firmly fixed in specific Terry Collins’ sets for the entire show are moments in the 20th century, much of what 910-632-2285 incredible, but his rendition of the lovely ante- Patrick struggles to understand as he grows www.thalian.org bellum mansion and grounds is really breathtaking. The song “Mame” was probably great, too, but unfortunately I couldn’t hear most of it during my attendance. Actually, the sound problems ended up being the major theme of the evening. Many of the principals weren’t using mics (Penny Kohut as Vera Charles seemed to be the only person prepared to project regardless of the soundman’s plans).

Those who were wearing them suffered from not having them turned on for many of their funnier lines. More so, some mics were left on back stage. The audience got treated to interesting backstage conversation and lots of setmoving sound effects amplified through the theatre. It really drowned out much of what was supposed to be happening onstage.

up are questions that still resonate today.

I know this show and, thankfully, almost by heart. But for others who did not, well, they likely couldn’t follow the jokes, meaning a lot was missing from the dialogue. The performers and audience really deserve better.

Sound problems aside: Is the show fun?

Does it swell with joie de vivre? Is Mame the classiest, most glamorous and amazing woman we’ve ever met? Do we all want to be her? Well, the answers are a decided yes and no. Debbie Scheu’s costumes are eye candy.

At the curtain speech Thalian’s artistic director, David Loudermilk, described the show as “ginormous”—and he wasn’t kidding. It has a big cast, lots of sets and wonderful costumes.

Visually, it is a feast. The big ensemble songand-dance numbers are tremendously fun.

There are some wonderful performances, especially from Quinn Gonzalez as Young encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 17

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18 encore |december 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

arts>>theatre

MEANINGFUL HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE: Classic Dickens tale gets a moving, wonderful revamp

by: Gwenyfar Rohler

“B

ack by popular demand” might be the current mantra of the cast of “A Christmas Carol,” currently playing in the Ruth and Bucky Stein Studio Theatre at Thalain Hall. Thalian Hall Cube Theatre and Theatre Exchange have resurrected the crowd-pleasing classic adapted from Dickens’ novella by Rob Zapple, Mathew Faison and Bruce Hoard.

A staple of the holiday season—especially in Wilmington during the early 2000s—Zapple has directed productions of it around the country.

Mike O’Neill, the narrator, recounts a memory from when he was 8 and living in the Midwest at an itinerant camp during The Great Depression. Things were looking pretty grim during the holidays. Then John Charles Winthrop III (Tony Rivenbark) and Michael (Robb Mann)—famous for playing Ebenezer Scrooge and Bob Cratchit on the vaudeville circuit—run out of gas at the camp on their way to a Chicago performance. In a truly wonderful set-up, the camp dwellers bargain for a performance of “A Christmas Carol” in exchange for gasoline. What develops is a lovely, creative and heartwarming staging of a story that we all think we know. Somehow the adaptation captures its original magic and fills it with a reminder of what Dickens’ intended: people as transformative tools of goodness.

Utilizing the objects of the camp and the props of the steamer trunk the actors travel with, Winthrop, Michael and the Narrator begin to unfold the familiar strains of the story. They enlist the surrounding camp dwellers for all additional roles. We meet the friendly, good-natured Nephew Fred, played with George Domby’s huge and contagious grin. Scrooge comes home to the distressing sight of his former partner, Jacob Marley, played by Tom Briggs, who turns in a performance that is so arresting it will make audiences re-evaluate their lives; I mean, “woah!”

The fabulous antidote arrives in the form of Jamila Ericson as The Ghost of Christmas Past. She brims with love and joy, but has a tinge of melancholy and remorse. I can’t really imagine anyone better for the part.

During the flashback sequences, we meet Young Ebenezer, played by Eddie Waters. It must be intimidating to play

a young Tony Rivenbark—local theatre stalwart, director of Thalian Hall, and performer in over 170 shows, one of which includes playing the iconic Ebenezer multiple times. But Waters meets the challenge, and gives us the verve and enthusiasm of a young Ebenezer discovering love, life and the potential of the world.

Somehow this disparate group of desperate people manage to bring Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig’s (R. Manley Lucas and Laurene Perry, respectively) party come to life— complete with a loving mistletoe encounter from the host couple. They are so darn adorable and jolly that if the story ended there, I would have been happy.

But the harder parts are still to come: The Ghost of Christmas Present (R. Manly Lucas) has to show Scrooge how the world is: Nephew Fred and his new wife (Marie Chonko) are having a party that he has stoutly refused to attend. The Cratchit household makes merry in spite of having so little to be merry about, in Scrooge’s opinion. But Reno Ray as Peter Cratchit getting his first collar and job is highly convincing as a young man ushering through this right of passage. Actually, every moment of the Cratchit family is pitch-perfect.

Mirroring Rivenbark is O’Neill’s work, looking back on a memory and sharing it to remind us what living this story means. He has to keep things moving and bridge the story and the fourth wall with the audience, repeatedly. If there is one change I would like to see in the show, it would be more time with O’Neill spent in light. Ostensibly, these are the shadows of his memory, so leaving him in darkness for many of his lines can be a valid artistic choice, but he is so much fun to watch onstage, and the love he radiates for this memory and these people is something I just want to drink in with my eyes as often as possible.

Gary Ralph Smith designed an interesting and multi-functional set for the intimate space of the studio theatre. There are some fun pieces that have to be hidden and maneuvered carefully to make the magic work.

His set certainly makes it possible within the confines of the story.

Since Thalian Hall launched their cube theatre, all shows have been hallmarks of what great productions look like, including attention to detail and quality performances with actors who play the moment and pass on that feeling to the audience.

They have two more shows announced this year: “Mary Tudor” in February and a production of “The Fantasticks,” directed

by Shane Fernando, in May. In the meantime, give the kids a meaningful holiday gift: the experience of live theatre at “A Christmas Carol.” It is an experience to remember for years to come.

DETAILS:

A Christmas Carol

Dec. 17-19, 21, 7 p.m.

Dec. 19-20, 2 p.m.

Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut St. Tickets: $25 Neither the quality of the set nor the won- www.thalianhall.org

derful performances are really a surprise.

Robb Mann and Rachel Lewis-Hilburn as the parents of this wonderful tribe are inspiring to watch as they find joy, laughter and strength in each other. Later, during the Ghost of Christmas Future sequence, they truly moved me to wipe the tears from running down my face as they address their shattered world without Tiny Tim. Speaking of Tiny Tim, if Jameson Zapple doesn’t steal the audience’s heart when he delivers his most famous line, they haven’t paid attention over two-and-a-half hours.

He hits the nail on the head with the message the cast has worked so hard to forge.

Hats off to the director, Rob Zapple; the combination of the adaptation and the performances really make the classic a journey of rediscovery. A lot of that rests on Rivenbark’s shoulders. Part of why I don’t tend to enjoy productions of “A Christmas Carol” is that making Scrooge’s transformation believable is beyond many actors.

But do I believe Rivenbark? Is he genuinely frightened? Is this a real transformation or just a flash in the pan? He got me—hook, line and sinker—mostly because he makes the shift happen slowly over the course of the show. He struggles, he weeps, and he laments his failings and mistakes genuinely. It is more than convincing.

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20 encore |december 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

arts>>film

reel to reel

A Pleasant Sucker Punch:

films this week

‘Creed’ is a surprise addition to great American cinema

T

Special Screening

Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St.

by: Anghus

$10, 7pm • www.thalianhall.org

Dec. 22: Frank Capra’s iconic holiday film, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” is an annual tradition at Thalian Hall. The story of a passionate but frustrated businessman, will screen once again this holiday season. George Bailey (James Stewart), while in a rut, wishes he’d never been born. But, with the help of an angel, he sees the impact he’s had on the lives of others and what life would have been if he hadn’t been around to do so. (130 minutes, Rated PG)

he boxing movie: It feels like throughout my 40-plus years on this earth I have watched a lot of them. After first hearing about “Creed,” the latest film in the storied “Rocky” franchise, my cynicism immediately kicked into overdrive and began to pummel the part of my brain responsible for anticipation. Another boxing movie? Another plot that revolves around some down-andout schlub trying to make everything right in his life by pummelling another man into a bloody, pulpy mess? As a genre formula, the boxing movie has become rather stale. It makes the romantic comedy look downright inspired. However, “Creed” makes a strong argument that a well-executed boxing movie can still pack a punch.

I’m a “Rocky” fan. I still consider the original to be one of the most sterling examples of great American cinema. It’s the ultimate underdog story, with an iconic performance A KNOCKOUT: Rocky Balboa returns as a mentor for Sylvester Stallone, bolstered with one to Adonis Creed, son of the late Apollo, in ‘Creed.’ of the greatest cinematic scores ever com- Courtesy photo. posed. It’s a movie with so many memorable I can’t say enough good things about Jorsights and sounds. It’s difficult for some people to remember how good “Rocky” is—and dan and Stallone. Their relationship is what in no small part due to a series of sequels makes “Creed” so damn compelling and that abandoned its modest roots to become their performances are as good as anything a ginormous cash-making franchise. Rocky I’ve seen at the movies this year. Michael B. went from a poor schlep fighting for his dig- Jordan is a raw talent with an infinite well of nity to being the bastion of the American charisma. He’s the real deal. Stallone has Dream, fighting in the Soviet Union over the transitioned nicely into the role of aging icon in a performance that is both heartwarming course of four movies. and heartbreaking.

While the “Rocky” sequels were harmThere’s also some amazing camerawork less, shallow, big-budget spectacles, it was “Rocky Balboa” that brought the series back at play here that brings a lot of kinetic thrills in 2006. In fact, I could make a strong ar- to boxing. There’s an early fight in Creed’s gument that “Rocky” and “Rocky Balboa” career that uses movie magic to appear to be are the only two “Rocky” films folks need to a single take. It’s something I’ve never seen watch. Now “Creed” can be added to the list. in a boxing film before. It proves there’s still new tricks to be found in the squared circle.

Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) is the Director Ryan Coogler shows some fancy illegitimate bastard spawn of the late, great footwork during the film’s in-ring segments, Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers)—who died but it’s the smaller out-of-ring moments in the fourth movie while fighting the Soviet where the movie really achieves greatness.

Superman Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren).

Coogler seems to perfectly understand He’s a smart kid with a big chip on his shoulder. Like his old man, he’s drawn to the ring. the importance of iconography in a movHe’s got a good job and a bright future, but ie with a pedigree like Creed. He injects what he wants more than anything is to be- enough original elements into the film, while come a prize fighter. He quits his job in Los paying tribute to what has come before.

Angeles and heads to Philadelphia to seek In this day and age, so many filmmakers out the tutelage of the legendary Rocky Bal- stumble with well-established franchises try boa (Sylvester Stallone). Rocky is reluctant to put lightning back in the bottle. Coogler to get back into the gym, even as a trainer. makes it look almost effortless. When someBut Adonis is persistent and manages to one is able to channel what made the original so inspiring and yet feel like its own viconvince Rocky to mentor him.

sion, it is nothing short of a miracle. “Creed” is easily one of the best films of 2015, and makes a strong argument that sequels, prequels and reboots can be more than an uninspired Frankenstein-like assembly made up of spare parts.

“Creed” is a not only a great piece of cinema but something of a surprise. A pleasant sucker punch, if you will.

DETAILS: Creed

★★★★★ Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson Directed by: Ryan Coogler Rating: PG-13

Dec 17, 7:30 p.m.: Film Noir Thursday at Detour Deli & Cafe (510 Redcross St.) will feature “Blast of Silence” this week. The 1961 thriller features the story of a hit man (Allen Baron), who comes to New York to kill a gangster. However, a special girl from his past, as well as a fat gun dealer with pet rats, gets in his way.

Film Noir Thursday is free to the public at Detour Deli on North Fourth Street. (77 minutes, Not Rated)

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 21

southeastern nc’s premier dining guide

grub & guzzle

Kabuki Korean Cafe & Sushi • 4102 Oleander Dr Suite 2 • (910) 350-3332

American BLUEWATER waterfront grill

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

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

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

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

Blue surf cafÉ

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

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

We also have a full beer and wine list. Come try the “hidden

gem” of Wilmington today. 250 Racine Drive Ste. 1, Wilmington 910-523-5362.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday to Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

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

■ WEBSITE: www.bluesurfcafe.com

CAM cafÉ

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

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

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

elijah’s

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

As a Casual American Grill and Oyster Bar, Elijah’s offers

22 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

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

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

eternal sunshine cafÉ

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

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

Halligan’s public house

“Failte,” is the Gaelic word for “Welcome,” and at Halligan’s Public House it’s our “Motto.” Step into Halligan’s and enter a world of Irish hospitality where delicious food warms the heart and generous drinks lift the spirit. Be sure to try Halligan’s house specialty,

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

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

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

HENRY’S

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

Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to 30 people. 2508 Independence Boulevard, Wilmington, NC. (910) 793.2929.

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown

■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.

■ WEBSITE: www.henrysrestaurant.com

■ WEBSITE: www.hopssupplycompany.com

Holiday Inn Resort

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

■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; Seasonal hours are open 7 days a week, Memorial Day through October ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Tasting menu every Tues. with small plates from $1-$4; Ladies Night every Wed; $27 4-course prix fixe menu on Thurs.; “Date night menu,” $65/couple with beer and wine tasting every Fri. and half price bottles of wine on Sun. ■ MUSIC: Mondays and Memorial Day-October, 7-9pm ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com

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

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

HOPS SUPPLY CO.

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

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

The little dipper

low tide pub

Located across from UNCW’s campus, Low Tide Pub serves up delicious fare and great drink specials in a fun atmosphere. Enjoy the biggest and best wings in town for only $0.50 on Sundays, a $5 daily lunch special, $2 daily beer special, and even taco Tuesdays. Their Mother Clucker is

served just in time for the holidays: slow-roasted chicken with cranberries, housemade stuffing, lettuce, and tomato.

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

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.lowtidepub.com

pine valley market

Pine Valley Market has reigned supreme in servicing the Wilmington community for years, securing encore’s Best-Of awards in catering, gourmet shop and butcher. Now, Kathy Webb and Christi Ferretti are expanding their talents into serving lunch in-house, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy ambience of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to

childhood. Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is something for all palates. Take advantage of their take-home frozen meals for nights that are too hectic to cook, and don’t forget to pick up a great bottle of wine to go with it. 3520 S. College Road, (910) 350-FOOD. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri.10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sun. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials and take-home frozen meals ■ WEBSITE: www.pinevalleymarket.com

the pub

A true public house. A gathering place. In house fresh ground burgers made with short rib, brisket and chuck on Sweet n Savory’s, made from scratch, bread along with 40 other sandwiches and meals under $12. 32 beers on tap, friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere where you can hang out with friends and enjoy live music, your favorite NFL game or the BEST burger you’ll ever eat! 2012 Eastwood Road, Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 679-8101, Hours: 11am-2am ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Causeway ■ WEBSITE: www.sweetnsavorypub.com

sweet ‘n’ savory cafÉ

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

Making incredible food is not magical or mystical and instead just requires heart (Tin Man), brains (Scarecrow), courage (Lion) and love (Dorothy). At Sweet n Savory we have pulled

Downtown Wilmington > 115 N. 2nd Street

Over 10,000 square feet of space Two floors of bars and seating Stage, sound system and 12ft HDTV Comfortably holds more than 400 guests No cost to book your event www.ironcladbrewery.com 910-769-0290

To feature your brewery, beer or wine shop, contact Shannon at music@encorepub.com encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 23

back the curtain because we don’t believe that we need smoke, mirrors, over inflated prices or pretentiousness to offer you the best and freshest food your money can buy. 1611 Pavillion Place, Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 256-0115 Hours: 7am-10pm.

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

the trolly stop

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

Our types of hotdogs include beef & Pork (Trolly Dog), allbeef (Sabrett), pork smoked sausage, Fat Free (Turkey) & Veggie. Recognized as having the Best Hot Dog in the Best of Wilmington Awards in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015.

Call Individual Stores for hours of operation or Look at our website trollystophotdogs.com Catering available, now a large portion of our business. Call Rick at 297-8416 for catering and franchise information.

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

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

Asian

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

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

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

kabuki korean cafÉ and sushi

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

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER:

indochine restaurant & Lounge

If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Orient without having to leave Wilmington, join us at Indochine for a truly unique experience. Indochine brings the flavors of the Far East to the Port City, combining the best of Thai and

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, off Oleander Drive.

■ FEATURING: Wilmington’s only authentic Korean restaurant!

TASTE OF THE TOWN “BEST APP” WINNER! Wine Down Wednesdays - 1/2 OFF Wine & Desserts

KYOTO ASIAN GRILLE

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

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

Okami Japanese hibachi Steakhouse

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

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

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

szechuan 132

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

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

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Lunch Specials

thai spice

Date Night Special for $59 - Available any time 1 Bottle of Wine, 1 Soup or Salad, 1 NeMa Fancy Fries, 2 Entrées & 1 Dessert Scratch Made • Pure Ingredients • Vegan, Gluten & Allergy Friendly Grass-fed Burgers • Hormone Free • Featuring Local NC Beef & Pork

225 South Water St ∙ 910-769-3709 HOURS:

Tues. 12pm – 9pm • Wed. – Fri. 12pm – 10pm Sat. 10am – 10pm • Sun. 10am – 9pm

WWW.NEMALOUNGE.COM 24 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

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

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

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

yosake downtown sushi lounge

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

Inspired features change weekly showcasing our commit-

ment to local farms. Full bar including a comprehensive sake list, signature cocktails, and Asian Import Bottles. 33 S. Front St., 2nd Floor (910) 763-3172.

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

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

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

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

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

Dinner Theatre theatrenow

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

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

Healthy NEMA LOUNGE AND EATERY

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

Burkowski takes pride in hand-crafted food, while the Nema staff offers helpful, friendly knowledge. They offer vegan, gluten- and allergy-friendly fare, and specialize in Taco Tuesdays (gourmet tacos, $3.50 ea.), Wine Down Wednesday (half-ff bottles of wine) and Thirsty Thursday (25 percent off all beers). They offer live music every Friday and Saturday nights, and open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays (11 a.m. - 3 p.m.). 225 S. Water St. 910-769-3709.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER AND BRUNCH: Tues.-Thurs., noon-10 p.m.; Fri., noon-midnight; Sat., 11:30 a.m. - midnight; Sun., 11:30am - 10 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown, Chandler’s Wharf ■ FEATURING: Worldly eats, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free items ■ WEBSITE: www.nemalounge.com

Indian kabob and grill

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.kabobandgrilldowntown.com

tandoori bites

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

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

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

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

irish THE HARP

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

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

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.harpwilmington.com

Italian eddie romanelli’s

Eddie Romanelli’s is a family-friendly, casual Italian American restaurant that’s been a favorite of Wilmington locals for over 16 years. Its menu includes Italian favorites such as Mama Romanelli’s Lasagna, Baked Ziti, Rigatoni a la Vodka and, of course, made-from-scratch pizzas. Its American influences include tasty burgers, the U.S.A. Salad and a 16 oz. Marinated Rib Eye Steak. Romanelli’s offers patio dining and flat screen TVs in its bar area. Dine in or take out, Romanelli’s is always a crowd favorite. Large parties welcome. 503 Olde Waterford Way, Leland. (910) 383.1885.

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

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

Fat Tony’s Italian Pub

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

Blue Crab Dip to Grilled Pizzas to Lollipop Lamb Chops.

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

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Thursday 11 am10 pm; Friday-Saturday 11 am-Midnight; Sunday Noon10 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.fatpub.com ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials until 3pm and late night menu from 11pm until closing.

Slice of life

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Downtown and Wilmington South.

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

la costa mexican restaurant

Latin American CEVICHE’S

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

7210 Wrightsville Ave. (910) 256-3131.

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

san juan CafÉ

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

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

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

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

Jamaican JAMAICA’S COMFORT ZONE

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

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

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown – University Landing 417 S. College Road #24 ■ FEATURING: Weekly Specials updated daily on Facebook ■ WEBSITE: www.jamaicascomfortzone.net

San Felipe Mexican Restaurant

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

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

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

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

Organic

a taste of italy

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

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

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

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

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

lovey’s natural foods & cafÉ

Mexican EL CERRO GRANDE

In January, El Cerro Grande will celebrate 25 years serving authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine to the greater Wilmington area. With an ever-evolving menu, they have introduced eight new exclusive soft tacos as part of Taco Fiesta! They churn out mouth-watering enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, chef specialties, and more, in a colorfully inviting dining room marked by a friendly staff and attention to detail. Check out El Cerro’s daily drink and food specials at their three different locations, including $3.50 margaritas on Tuesdays off Military Road, on Wednesdays at 341 S. College Road, and on Thursdays at 5120 S. College Road.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.loveysmarket.com

whole foods market

Whole Foods Market offers one of the most expansive freshly prepared foods options in the city! With 4 bars featuring hot dishes & salads, a sandwich station, sushi station, and pizza station, you are apt to satisfy everyone in your group. All of the ingredients are free of any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives so food is fresh and flavorful from farm, ranch, or dock to your fork! Dine in the cafe or carry

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 25

Seafood

seafood, pasta, and chicken dishes from $4.95-$25.95, there’s something for everyone at Dock Street. You’ll have a great time eating in our “Bohemian-Chic” atmosphere, where you’ll feel just as comfort able in flip flops as you would in a business suit. Located at 12 Dock St in downtown Wilmington. Open for lunch and dinner, 7 days a week.

(910) 762-2827.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week.

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

■ WEBSITE: www.dockstreetoysterbar.net

catch

oceanic

out. On any given day the selection offers an array of organic, local, vegan/vegetarian, and healthy options. Voted Best Salads by encore readers.

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

Serving the Best Seafood in South Eastern North Carolina.

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

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

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

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

Dock Street oyster bar

Voted Best Oysters for over 10 years by encore readers, you know what you can find at Dock Street Oyster Bar. But we have a lot more than oysters! Featuring a full menu of

P embroke ’ s

1125 A, M ilitAry C utoff r d .

(910) 239-9153

speCiAls: tuesdAy: seleCt nC drAfts wednesdAy: All nC spirits $5 thursdAy: feAtured wines 50% off sundAy: feAtured CoCktAils live MusiC At the bAr fridAy & sAturdAy froM 8pM-11pM sundAy brunCh 10AM - 3pM with live MusiC froM 11AM - 2pM everything is MAde in house!

www . peMbrokesCuisine . CoM

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: Dining on the newly renovated Crystal Pier ■ WEBSITE: www.OceanicRestaurant.com

The pilot house

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

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

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

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: 11amMidnight ■ NEIGHBORHOODS: Carolina Beach and Downtown ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials. Like us on Facebook!

■ WEBSITE: www.TheShuckinShack.com

smoothies and more Tropical smoothie cafÉ

26 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

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

■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mon-Fri; 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sat-Sun ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, at Shipyard Blvd. and College Rd.

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.

Rx Restaurant & bar

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

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

pembroke’s

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

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

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

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

Sports Bar Carolina Ale House

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

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.CarolinaAleHouse.com

dig and dive

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

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

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

■ WEBSITE: www.DigandDive.com

hell’s kitchen

This is downtown Wilmington’s Sports Pub! With every major sporting package on ten HDTVs and our huge HD projection screen, there is no better place to catch every game in every sport. Our extensive menu ranges from classics, like thick Angus burgers or NY-style Reuben, to lighter fare, such as homemade soups, fresh salads and vegetarian options. Whether meeting for a business lunch, lingering over dinner and drinks, or watching the game, the atmosphere and friendly service will turn you into a regular. Open late 7 days a week, with free WiFi, pool, and did we mention sports?

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

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

- Thursday 4-7 p.m.

■ WEBSITE: www.hellskitchenbar.com

vegetarian/Vegan sealevel restaurant

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

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

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

encore | december 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 27

grub & guzzle>>review

brews and chews: Bar Local kicks it up a notch with solid eats

Y

by: Rosa Bianca

es, my job is to boldly go where no encore reviewer has been. Sure, Bella’s Bar Local has called upon many readers to belly up to its pine, but in the past year they’ve done more than serve pints. They’ve snuck small plates onto their formerly fluids-only menu. And it is my job to do a thorough taste-testing and report back ... challenge accepted.

First, let me say: Props to the man running the show—co-owner Dennis Mancinelli. Though the meal was superbly satisfying, the only bone I have to pick with him is how he categorizes the Bar Local menu. The entire list is classified as “small plates,” and I’m inclined to say this grouping is slightly deceiving. The second half of the menu is sandwiches.

While the cheese-stuffed-overflowingonto-crusty-bread-panini-style extrava-

ganzas are quite tasty, they’re not exactly what I would call a “small plate.”

Good news, though, to diners touring the town for tapas—or in this case “cicchetti”—Bar Local does happen to offer some intriguing Italian-inspired starters.

As I enter on a brisk Tuesday evening, I’m smack dab in the middle of a painting class. Combine a watercolor expert with several glasses of wine, and Bar Local has just given customers a damn-good excuse to get out of the house on a boring weekday night. As Dennis pours one hoppy sample after another into my pint glasses, he dishes about how Bar Local’s cuisine is all made in-house. But here’s the catch: This house came kitchenless. So what’s back there? A hot plate, a toaster oven, and a designated “line” that’s probably not much longer than my cat. Somehow, Bella’s is cranking out homemade eats to pair with their trendy lineup of craft brews.

I order hummus as I sip on Stone’s citrus-y Ruination Double IPA. As it turns out, Dennis isn’t a chef at all. Coming from an Italian family, creativity in the kitchen just happens to be in his genes.

Dennis takes the recipes from brain to paper, and while he chats up the customers, a sous chef in the faux kitchen puts them on the plate.

The food processor buzzes away in the back, almost as if proving how Dennis’ “scratchmade food” is not taken lightly. Freshly-made roasted red-pepper spread, with warm pita bread and crunchy raw yellow squash slices for dunking, arrive. The smooth hummus tastes smoky from the peppers and has a light hint of sharp, minced garlic. Sure, it’s meant for sharing, but I did not.

Specials: TUES NIGHT: 1/2

price wine by the glass

WED NIGHT: $3 Draft

night

SUNDAY BRUNCH: 10am - 3pm SUNDAY DINNER: 5pm - 9pm OPEN TUES - THURS 5PM - 10PM FRI AND SAT 5PM - 10:30PM www . rxwilmington . com

421 c astle s t • (910) 399-3080

Anyone who reads my reviews knows two things about me: One, I think beer is a food group; two, I’m a sucker for Taco Tuesday. In my pre-feast research, I found Bella’s Facebook page beckon $2 tacos on Tuesdays. Sure, I was ordering practially the entire menu for myself, but I figured, hey, what the hell?! What’s a taco or two? Upon Dennis’ suggestion— and with a telepathic high five, nonetheless—luscious pulled pork, piled high on a warm corn tortilla, is a fall-apart tender delight. Fresh cilantro and tangy red-cabbage slaw tops it, with crisp pickled veggies elegantly balancing the salty, juicy meat. The taco is more flavorful than ta-

28 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

The finale of my sandwich trio ends on a lighter note: the veggie panini. The flat, crackly bread loads up with rich housemade pesto mayonnaise and buttery fontina cheese. I could tangle the ingredients cos I’ve had from actual taco restaurants with shoelaces and they still would be deliin the area. (I’ll stop saying “taco” now.) cious—but the sliced veggies really cap off the fresh and gratifyingly grilled flavor.

Just prior to an upcoming sandwich That once unassuming downtown cofcoma, one of the bar’s nightly specials fee shop, with a spectacular riverfront arrives. As the great Jerry Maguire said, “You had me at pork belly.” The fatty view, will transform every foodie with its slabs—as tender as the day is long—rest hip craft-beer bar and a menu suited for on a bed of black beans and are topped every taste. Bella’s brings big flavor with with a tropical citrus salsa. No, the belly bountifully packed-between-bread delididn’t blow me out of the water, but keep cacies, and smaller shared starter plates in mind the plate was pimped out with not to go unnoticed (fresh bruschetta, aspractically no kitchen at hand. Not too sorted cheeses and cured meats included). With many bottle shops and brewershabby, Bella’s. Not too shabby at all. ies in town keeping their bars food-free Grilled cheese is delicious in the morn- zones, Bella’s delivers the best of both ing, and what goes best with breakfast? worlds—not to mention their friendly Stout, of course. A rich, coffee-scented squirrel who chills on the outdoor patio Black Bear Stout pairs with with my indul- like he owns the place. gent treat wonderfully. The gooey grilled Hey, at least go for the squirrel. cheese comes pressed to perfection, oozing with blankets of cheddar, Swiss, and fontina, and slathered in a garlicky pesto mayonnaise. Nap, please. $2 TACO TUESDAY: Luscious pulled pork, piled high on a warm corn tortilla, is a fall-apart tender delight at Bar Local. Photo by Holland Dotts Photography.

From one carb carnival to the next, I row along to roast-beef sandwich land.

Initially, pastrami calls my name, but Dennis suggests subbing in a different meat. The thick Italian bread, crispy on the outside and pillowy in the middle, features a substantial pile of roast beef and nutty Swiss. The savory grilled onions nestle between the melty cheese and put this beefy badass over the top.

DETAILS:

Bella’s Bar Local

19 Market St. (910) 833-5182 Mon. - Thurs..: 5 p.m. - midnight; Fri.-Sat., 1 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. - midnight. www.facebook.com/BellasCoffee

The #1 Deli in the Port City!

$2 OFF SCALINI PANETTONE

We Specialize in Catering!

Cheese Plates, Cold Cut Platters, Vegetable Trays, Pastas, Salads, Sandwiches, Authentic Italian Entrees, Desserts and so much more.

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Weekdays 8am - 8pm • Sat. 8:30am - 7pm Sun. 11am - 6pm

1101 S College Rd. • (910) 392-7529 www.ncatasteofitaly.com encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 29

extra>>feature

PERFORMING A MAGICAL DREAM: Wilmington Ballet Company hosts “The Nutcracker” at Cape Fear Stage by: shea carver

I

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS: The Wilmington Ballet Company has worked with professional adult and youth dancers and area organizations to bring to life “The Nutcracker” this weekend. Courtesy photo

n 2008, nine years after Elizabeth Hester founded the Wilmington Ballet Company, one of the area’s most beloved productions opened during the holidays. The nonprofit dance company presented “The Nutcracker,” and featured hundreds of adult and youth dancers to bring to life Clara’s magical dream.

“All of the lead dancers have trained at nationally recognized professional conservatories, professional companies, and/or prestigious ballet colleges,” Hester tells.

body-building professionals. Having capable strong partners is a big challenge for most ballet companies and we have a unique solution.”

Guests artists from Atlanta Ballet and Carolina Ballet, as well as from the Washington Ballet, will join the Sugar Plum Fairies and Nutcracker Prince. AdAs part of the 2015 holiday dance, Wilm- ditional professionals, like Nick Sattore, ington Ballet Company will showcase its Julian Stokes and Jeff Rie, will help perpremier performance at the new Cape Fear fect the art of partnership—specifically Community College Fine Arts and Humani- with the strength needed to hoist the ties Center this weekend only, Dec. 19 and graceful ballerinas.

20 at 3 p.m. With it will be a slew of dancers “Julian is a hip-hop teacher,” Hester from their new professional division. explains. “Nick and Jeff are fitness and

Thus the lifts and effects will be elevated, especially with pro dancers and community partners integrating their talents to put on the 2014 Best Production, according to encore readers. For example, the battle scene will feature sword team members from Ashley High School’s ROTC students. “It is a real combat scene,” Hester promises.

30 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

Plus, Pleasure Island Dance Company has joined and is choreographing an enchanting sea scene. New to the 2015 pro-

duction will be costumes and set hangings, as well as performers bringing to life magnanimous aerial work.

“It is also truly a community event,” Hester tells. “There are over 400 dancers, artists, actors, gymnasts, martial artists, vocalists, and more involved in the production.”

The entertainment will begin before the show and continue during intermission. Techmoja Dance and Theatre Company will perform “Carolina Christmas” beforehand, an original production created by founder Kevin Lee-y Green, who is also a porfessional dancer for Wilmington Ballet Company.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We added Kathy Snow Productions as a choir to the lobby,â&#x20AC;? Hester tells, â&#x20AC;&#x153;[and] photos with ballerinas.â&#x20AC;?

types of people, who are looking for a holiday performance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is truly a ballet for the whole family, from 3 to 103,â&#x20AC;? Hester says.

WWAY anchor Mckezi Henderson will sing with the Cape Fear Community College leading vocal students at intermission, which also will include a martial arts demonstration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The bells and whistles will knock you off your feet this year!â&#x20AC;? Hester says.

The show will feature hundreds of performers and multiple directors who have worked independently and together to merge the magic of each scene. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They manage their own groups with great precision and work as a team to make the whole program smooth,â&#x20AC;? Hester tells. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This year is heads and shoulders above what we performed last year. The technical capacity of the new CFCC theater lends itself to so many more effects.â&#x20AC;?

This is Wilmington Ballet Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s season opener of three major shows they hold throughout the year, including â&#x20AC;&#x153;Little Mermaidâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Swan Lake.â&#x20AC;? All will take place at the Fine Arts and Humanities Center for the upcoming season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To have paid serious professionals in a company locally is truly an historic achievement,â&#x20AC;?

Hester tells.

The company also features apprentice members and local youth dancers, with over a dozen different organizations involved in the production. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The community element is huge,â&#x20AC;? Hester proudly says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The CFCC art club is painting a mural live at the event. This is an important connection for our community.â&#x20AC;?

The amazing contemporary and classical technical skill showcased of so many great dancers will appeal to all ages and

Though there will be no symphony backing the performance for 2015, Hesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already looking toward the 2016 season to add it again. Tickets are on sale now for â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nutcracker.â&#x20AC;?

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AVAILABLE FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES WE ARE AVAILABLE FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES BIG & SMALL! encore | december 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 31

extra>>fact or fiction

nine lives of xen: Chapter 25: Xen’s end

by: ANTHONY D. LAWSON

T

he baby was silent. I was unnerved by the contrast of the cacophony that had been emitting from the tiny creature to the calm it now possessed. I watched the steady movement of its chest while it slowly breathed in and out. It fell back asleep.

It woke up with my paw placed on its mouth and stared up at me. The eyes were the same. They were her eyes. I moved my paw and it just stared at me.

She stared at me; it must be a she. She didn’t look sad, worried or even happy— just inquisitive. I stayed there until her eyes closed and her breathing evened out. I left the room and made my way back to M. Watching M. sleep, just as peacefully as the baby, I knew that whatever happened—whatever I chose to do—this

would be the end. I would never see M. again. I failed to take the easiest route. If I harvested those precious years I could have ... what? Cured her? Prolonged her life? Been with her? It all seemed selfish. I was willing to take an innocent life so that I wouldn’t have to be without M. I was tired of justifying my actions. If I truly wanted to help, if this was really about M. and not just what I wanted, I had to remove myself from the equation.

I thought about it long and hard while I watched her sleep. It gave me an idea.

Until recently I did not know if it was even possible to transfer life from one being to another. I heard the tales, so there had to be a precedent at some point in time. But this—this thing I was planning—wasn’t something I heard of anyone trying. I now know it is in fact possible to transfer life that has been taken from one being to another. But what if, instead of transferring life, it could simply be surrendered.

I knew I had hundreds, if not thousands, of years stored up in my little body. Even if they didn’t equate to actual human years, it must have some sort of impact on her. Could it cure her?

Would she live for hundreds of years? I could only speculate; I wasn’t going to be around to witness it.

I jumped onto the bed and gently made my way over to her chest. I didn’t know what to do. Was this even possible? I opened her mouth and stared down, but instead of willing her life to come out of her body, I thought about my own life leaving my body. Nothing happened.

I looked up from her mouth and wanted to apologize. I wanted to somehow communicate I knew I had failed. But looking at her made something catch in my chest. I felt a tugging sensation that could only be expressed as heartache.

I closed my eyes and kept a picture of M. in my head. Her eyes catching mine that first day. I felt the tug grow stronger.

I pictured her happy and healthy, and the pull became overwhelming. Suddenly, my mouth sprang open and a silvery stream of light came pouring out. It wasn’t the same as the life I transferred so many times before. There were golden strands woven into the light. And it didn’t pour into her mouth; it surrounded her, seeping into her skin and flowing around her.

angry with someone when she looked down. And there I was. Seeing me made her feel … loved. She knew. This whole time she knew. All of the sunsets and architecture and wonders of mankind that I just re-witnessed could not compare to the feeling of that memory.

I cut off the connection just short of giving her everything. I left myself just enough—just enough time to say goodbye and get far enough away before the end. The last thing she needed was to wake up and find me here.

I curled up next to her on the bed. I nestled my head under her clinched fist and let myself enjoy our last visit. I left myself just enough time to have this moment, but not enough to second guess my decision.

I felt tired and there was a strong temptation to fall asleep. I caught myself drifting when I felt a scratching behind my ear. I pushed my head into the scratch and felt a rumbling deep in the back of my throat. The sensation was new and irreplaceable. Also brief, I sprung up; I looked down and saw her fingers working back and forth as if she were still petting me. Her hand was no longer clutched in a fist.

Her eyes, still closed, fluttered. I ran out of time and jumped to the window; I looked back one last time. Her hand stopped its unconscious motion but reThen I witnessed my life—everything mained open. I forced myself to finally that had ever happened: the Pyramids look away and jumped down from the being built, the slaves, the Celts, Italy, window sill.

Rome, Ireland, Scotland, every place I As cats are prone to do, I landed on my had ever seen. Every fight I was a part of. Every alley I slept in. The shabby feet, but they were shaky. I didn’t have man looking me in the eye. The trip to much time, so I headed into the woods America. Henry, New York, New Eng- and kept thinking about everything I land. Greendale. The man in the suit. It could have done differently. Mistakes all rushed past. It felt like I was breath- I could have avoided. Then I thought about her hand opening; I thought about ing and exhaling at the same time. the life she was about to have. It made I saw me seeing her for the first time that last trip not so lonely. To the best of again. I felt like it was the first time. My my recollection, eight people had given eyes watered with the pain and joy of their lives since I first met M. It was only our first encounter. I felt light-headed fair I gave her mine. and almost broke off the connection The End when I saw a memory that wasn’t mine.

The setting was familiar. In fact, I just saw this but from a different angle. This was the scrap of life I accidentally took from M. I could feel her frustration as she sat in a Greendale office. It was that first day. She sat there and wanted to be 32 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

Anthony David Lawson is the author of “Novel,” as well as a local playwright, director and actor. He will write a piece of prose presented in parts every other week in encore throughout 2015, entitled “The Nine Lives of Xen.”

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encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 33

happenings & events across wilmington

to-do calendar holiday events HOLIDAY HOOPLA AT THE MUSEUM

12/16-18, 11:30am: Each day to partake in some very fun and festive holiday crafts, baking, and more! Free with admission or membership. 12/15: Fingerprint Christmas; 12/16: Cinnamon Ornaments; 12/17: Candy Cottages; 12/18: Reindeer Food. We look forward to seeing you all this holiday! Children’s Museum of Wilmington, 116 Orange St.

POLAR EXPRESS DAY

12/19, 9am: Wear your pajamas and join us for a morning of Christmas magic! We will read the book, The Polar Express, at 10am. The children will be able to make a train ornament, write a letter to Santa, drink hot cocoa and receive a Christmas spirit bell. The bell only rings for those that believe. Free with admissions and membership. Children’s Museum of Wilmington, 116 Orange St. BAROQUE CHRISTMAS CONCERT

12/21, 7:30pm: Tallis Chamber Orchestra Baroque Christmas Concert to Benefit the Good Shepherd Center, featuring soprano Sara Wes-

termark and harpist Christina Brier. Concert is free/donations accepted. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 16 N. Sixteenth St. ENCHANTED AIRLIE

One enchanted evening can create lasting holiday memories. Each year since first illuminating in 2005, visitors from near and far have made the trek to Airlie Gardens to celebrate the season during its Enchanted Airlie event through Dec. 22. Airlie’s tastefully decorated half-mile, self-guided walking trail features elaborate holiday displays with more than 750,000 twinkling lights—a holiday light ex-

travaganza like no other. See the enchanted forest of lighted oaks and dazzling displays in a coastal garden setting over 67 acres holiday fantasy with whimsical exhibits suitable for all ages. Superheroes will join Santa to greet guests and pose for photos. Other highlights include: a Poinsettia Paradise with more than 400 holiday plants, live musical entertainment and visits with Santa. Airlie’s 2,400-square-foot floral conservatory provides a festive backdrop for family photos. Warm holiday refreshments are available for purchase and the Airlie gift shop is open with one-of-a-kind gifts. Single: $12 (over the age of 4). Children under 3: free.

Couples in same vehicle: $17. Carload: $27.

Airlie Gardens, 300 Airlie Road BAR LOCAL’S CHIRSTMAS PARTY

12/23, 8pm: Twas two nights before Christmas and what do you know? Bar LoCal would be the warmest place to go There will be caroling, mulled wine, and more. No grinches here, you know the score. Dennis will read “The Night Before Chirstmas” for us all to hear. Relax and enjoy the evening with a tapas and craft beer.

Reading at midnight. 19 Market St.

charity/fundraiser STRIPERFEST

1/15-16: Coastline Convention Center’s twoday extravaganza that benefits the Cape Fear River! Bring your friends along and join fellow river lovers to support a great cause from 6pm on Friday night for our Auction and Banquet bid on vacation packages, boating equipment, unique art pieces, local restaurants packages and much more while enjoying dinner, drinks and live music! Saturday’s events are free and begin at 9am with ‘Boats Away’, our exciting one of a kind Tag and Release Striped Bass Fishing Tournament! Our Family Fun Educational Day then begins at 10am; enjoy a fisheries science forum, fishing seminar, educational booths, arts & crafts, face painting, casting lessons, boat trips up the Cape Fear and much more! Friday night’s Auction & Banquet $60 each or $240 for a table of 8. Saturday’s events free. Coastline Conference and Event Center, 501 Nutt St.

theatre/auditions A TRAILER PARK CHRISTMAS

“A Trailer Park Christmas,” by Rachel Klem and Jeffrey Moore. Originally produced in Durham, NC & 2014 at TheatreNOW, through Dec. 20, Friday and Saturday at 7pm. Sundays (starting

Enter your events online by noon, Thursdays, for consideration in print.

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crossword Creators syndiCate CREATORS SYNDICATE © 2015 STANLEY NEWMAN

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

PRESENTS OF MIND: Some related gift suggestions

by Matthew Sewell ACROSS 1 Things to learn first 5 Appraiser’s map 9 Herring known for its roe 13 Sippy-cup inserts 19 Scale (down) 20 Olden days 21 Shock with a stun gun 22 Hard to hum, perhaps 23 Well-traveled Nickelodeon toon 24 Door busters 25 Give __ (care) 26 Person at a mortgage signing 27 FOR A DISPIRITED FARMER 31 Mutineer, e.g.

32 Smear on, as paint 33 Great amounts 34 Arabian Nights flier 37 Triangular peninsula 40 War of the Worlds invader 43 Land on the Gulf of California 44 Personal ad abbr.

47 FOR AN ADVANCED SLEEP-AWAY CAMPER 50 Domestic workers 52 Sharer’s opposite 53 Actor Davis 54 2015 big-league returnee 55 Farming medium 57 Far from abundant 61 Occupational specialty 64 Tips off 67 US Open tennis stadium 68 Burrowed 71 FOR A DIVINE KEYBOARDIST 76 Vegan staple 77 Surrealist Magritte

78 Cosmo competitor 9 Cowboys 79 “Olde” emporium quarterback great 80 Nickname for a bully 10 Dwell (on) 82 Very very 11 “On the double!”

85 “Hold on there!”

12 Silt, for instance 86 A real drag 13 Rock guitarist Carlos 89 High bond rating 14 Sunroof alternatives 92 Chemistry experiment 15 Roasted, on subjects French menus 95 FOR AN UNCONFIDENT 16 “Vicar’s themes” and GOLFER “Christmas Eve” 100 Is: Lat. 17 Belligerent state 18 Underhanded 101 Misfortunes 28 Fibber’s confession 102 Faucet attachment 29 Monetary amounts 103 Furnished with footwear 30 Enjoy, as benefits 105 Energy-saving bulb, 35 Resort near Santa Barbara for short 36 Wholesale quantity 106 Dracula heroine 38 “Don’t think so” 107 Baby girl, in Spain 39 Rather long time 109 Springbok’s habitat 41 Pal of Tigger 113 FOR A BIG BABY 42 Yanks 119 Krugerrand’s 22 43 Naval station 121 Scatterbrain 44 Dishonors 122 Stove setting 45 Send electronically, 123 Sicily’s high point as funds 124 “On the double!”

46 Unsubstantial 125 Summer Olympics 48 Grand tales blade 49 Publisher Pulitzer 126 Small musical group 51 Actress Falco 127 Fashion-forward 128 Embassy Suites owner 56 Guitar forerunner 58 Offer from Fido 129 Google service 59 Simile center 130 Lee of comic books 60 Wide Sargasso Sea 131 Weighty book author 62 Off the mark DOWN 63 Sax player’s buy 1 Venomous snake 2 Ecological community 65 Ingredient in a dragon roll 3 Cocoa substitute 66 Farm structure 4 Tablet computer 68 Friend of Scooby-Doo ancestors 69 Begins a plant 5 Prefix for “fire” relocation 6 Cash advance 70 Get traded from the 7 Plated mammal Dodgers to the Mets 8 Electric Roadster maker

72 “Anything else?”

73 Feline sign 74 Gandhi associate 75 The Music Man setting 80 Tousle 81 Mother of the Titans 83 Differentiates 84 Sworn promise 86 __ deGrasse Tyson 87 Stare at 88 Poppycock

90 Picnic invader 91 Has trouble deciding 93 Big boss, briefly 94 Fountain near the Pantheon 96 Spoils, as a picnic 97 Prefix meaning “wine” 98 Honeymooners surname 99 Big boss, briefly 104 Imperfection 106 Inspirational slogan

08 1 110 111 112 114 115 116 117 118 119

Pond swimmers Gallery print, for short Fabric prone to fading Vestige Is unable to Cry of alarm Goulash, for instance Diva’s delivery “Let’s move it!”

Saskatchewan speed-limit letters 20 NPR host Shapiro 1

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in December) at 3pm. Tickets $22-$40 with discounts for seniors and students. Adult $40, Senior/Student $36, $22 show only. The residents of Whispering Pines Trailer Park are back with their open latch holiday gathering. Will Memaw drink too much of Lorraine’s special punch?

And what to do with all the fruit cake? Will an impending hurricane spoil their celebrations?

Meet all the colorful trailer park residents and enjoy a delicious comfort food inspired 3-course meal by TheatreNOW’s awardwinning, Chef Denise. TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th Street CHRISTMAS BELLES

It’s Christmas time in the small town of Frayo, TX and the Futrelle sisters are not exactly in a festive mood. A cranky Frankie is weeks overdue with the second set of twins. Twink is in jail for inadvertently burning down half the town, and hot flash suffering Honey Raye is desperately trying to keep the Tabernacle of the Lamb’s Christmas Program from spiraling into chaos.

When Frankie lets slip a family secret that has been carefully guarded for decades, all hope for a successful Christmas Program seems lost, even with an Elvis impersonator. $22; $20 students, seniors, military and $16 all Thursday performances. Doors at 7pm. Cape Fear Playhouse: 613 Castle St. (910) 367-5237, bigdawgpro@gmail.com, or through Etix.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Through 12/21: The Theatre Exchange’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’A Christmas Carol transports the timless story of Christmas redemption Christmas redemption from London to a depression era “Hooverville” on the outskirts of St. Louis. Actor, historian and THCPA Executive Director, Tony Rivenbark, will once again bring Ebenezer Scrooge to life in the in-

timate setting of the Ruth and Bucky Stein Theatre at Thalian Hall. Tickets: $25. Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut Street SANTALAND DIARIES

Panache Theatrical Productions will present SantaLand Diaries at the Red Barn Studio Theatre, Dec 18-20. The story, written by David

12/16: BOOTLEG SHAKESPEARE It’s improv. It’s Shakespeare. It’s rogue. Don’t miss “The Tempest” performed live! TheatreNOW welcomes Bootleg Shakespeare, courtesy of Up All Night Productions, which has performers acting out the Bard’s classic without any pre-rehearsal. The story follows stranded royal passengers, who are shipwrecked on an island where magical undercurrents of manipulation and illusion propel the plot.

The show is absolutely free! TheatreNOW is located at 19 S. 10th Street. For more info, visit www. theatrewilmington.com.

Sedaris and adapted by Joe Mantello, is that of disgruntled elf Crumpet and his misadventures working for the popular Macy’s holiday attraction. Featuring Anthony Lawson as Crumpet and The “Not Ready for Christmas” Carolers.

Tickets are available by calling 910-251-1788 or visiting www.thalian.org. Red Barn Studio Theatre, 1122 South 3rd Street MEMPHIS THE MUSICAL

Cape Fear Theatre Arts LLC will debut “Memphis the Musical,” Dec. 30-31, Jan. 2-3, 7-10, 14-17 at Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St. From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot new Broadway

musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. Starring Paul Teal, Barbara Mootoo, Jerrial Young, Nygel Robinson, Khawon Porter, Jon Stafford, and Rasa Love. Directed by Justin Smith; music by Chiaki Ito.Shows at 7:30pm; Sun. matinees, 3 p.m. (2 p.m. on Jan. 17). $20-$29. www.thalianhall.org.

New Year’s Eve gala, 7pm: Includes dinner, drinks, desserts, dancing, champagne toast, and show! $125. (910)632-2285 BOOTLEG SHAKESPEARE

12/16, 8pm: Up All Night goes head to head with history’s greatest playwright in “Bootleg Shakespeare: The Tempest!” When a royal ship wrecks on an island during a storm, the stranded passengers are forced to deal with all manner of magical beings that inhabit it.

Who knows what strange things may happen on this mysterious island? “Bootleg Shakespeare” is a different kind of performance.

The actors will not be rehearsing beforehand.

They’ll have to rely on their own abilities to bring the Bard’s magical tale to life. Anything could happen when Up All Night presents “Bootleg Shakespeare: The Tempest.”

Free. TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10 St. www. theatrewilmington.com DISNEY’S 101 DALMATIONS

1/9, 10am: Auditions will be held on Saturday, January 9th at 10 am at the Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd Street in downtown Wilmington. A song and dance combination will be taught, no preparation needed. This production, directed by Thom Behm and choreographed by Tina Leak & Katie Auletti-Smith, runs February 26- March 6, 2016 at the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center. Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 S. Second St.

comedy DEAD CROW COMEDY CLUB

Ongoing schedule: Mon, Comedy Bingo and $1 tacos; Tues, free Crow’s Nest Improv (longform), 8pm; Wed, Nutt House Improv Show, 9pm, $3; Thurs, free open-mic night, 9pm; FriSat, national touring comedians/comediennes, 8pm/10pm $10-$15; Sun, closed. • 11:45pm: Late Fear with Willis Maxwell, Wilmington’s Late Night Talk Show, taped every 1st and 3rd Saturday night at midnight in the Dead Crow Comedy Room, Late Fear is a hilarious and fun showcase for Wilmington’s creative talent and small business. • 12/18-19, 9:30pm: Since his breakout performance at the HBO Aspen Comedy Festival, Ben Kronberg has performed on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” “Last Call With Carson Daly” and the third season of “John Oliver’s

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KEYLESS ENTRY REMOTES

COMEDY AT CALICO

Wed., 9pm: Comedy Showcase at The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St., in downtown Wilmington. Come see some of the funniest guys in the region and potentially win cash prizes. An open mic show with a different headliner every week!

Hosted by Reid Clark.

music/concerts SWEET ADELINES

Fri., Dec. 18, 6:30pm: Independance Mall, the Sear’s indoor entrance. Always welcoming women who would like to sing in the “Barbershop Tradition”— no experience needed. Ramona, 910-791-3846.

TATSUYA NAKATINI AND MICHEL DONEDA

12/16, 8pm: Japanese improvising percussionist Tatsuya Nakatani, performing in a duo with French saxophonist Michel Doneda for an amazing display of free improvisation. Squidco Records, 928 N. 4th St.

CONCERTS ON COLLEGE

12/18, 7pm: Concerts on College is proud to present Lessons and Carolsperformed by the Girls’ Choir of Wilmington at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, 1401 S College Road in Wilmington. Choir is directed by Sandy Errante and accompanied by Steven Errante. Experience joyful music of the holidays from a global perspective as the Girls Choir sings Celtic selections, Moravian songs, a Hebrew piece, the Huron carol, and English composer John Rutter Christmas favorites. Donations will benefit scholarships awarded to UNCW students pursuing degrees in music. bettsyc@welcometowesley.com or (910) 7914092, ext. 119

A YULETIDE SWING

12/18, 8pm: Wilmington jazz musicians will be bringing unique/original compositions of your favorite Christmas classics to Bourgie Nights! $7 advance tickets, $10 day of show.

Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

LESSONS AND CAROLS

12/18, 7pm: Concerts on College is proud to present Lessons and Carols performed by the Girls’ Choir of Wilmington on Friday, December 18th at 7:00 p.m., at Wesley Memorial United

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Methodist Church, 1401 S College Road in Wilmington. The choir is directed by Sandy Errante and accompanied by Steven Errante.

Experience joyful music of the holidays from a global perspective as the Girls Choir sings Celtic selections, Moravian songs, a Hebrew piece, the Huron carol, and English composer John Rutter Christmas favorites. Donations will benefit music scholarships and the music ministry of WMUMC. Wesley Memorial United Methodist, 1401 S College Road GROOVE FETISH CHRISTMAS JAM

12/18, 12:30pm: Music all day both days, bands from Tampa FL, GA, Asheville NC, Greensboro, and lots of local bands. Kid free 12 and under, kids activities, tye dye station, art station, face painiting, and beer and wine vendors, arts and craft vendors and over 12 live artist. Coastline Conference and Event Center, 501 Nutt St.

DRUMMING AND DANCING

12/22, 7:30pm: A drum experience for all types of hand drums and percussive instruments. Bring your own or we have some to share. All levels welcome. Dancing is a part of the drumming experience and several area dancers often share their expression with the drummers. It is always a fun evening of drums, dance and expression and often times very unpredictable and spontaneous. Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 122 Princess St.

GIRLS’ CHOIR AUDITIONS

1/7, 5:30pm: Ages 9-18 at First Baptist Activity Center, 1939 Independence Blvd. For information about the Girls’ Choir of Wilmington, please visit www.girlschoirofwilmington.org or girlschoirofwilmington@gmail.com.

JAZZ AT CAM

1/14, 6:30pm: A combined group of musicians

who specialize in Jazz, Hip Hop, and Rhythm and Blues, these three emerging young artists expressively create a great synergy of substance which is unique, lively, and uplifting to those who embrace the sound of their musical offerings. Serena Wiley performs in the Jazz @ The CAM series for the first time following several successful concerts in recent years for the summer jazz series of the Cape Fear Jazz Society. They are the Light under the sun

tribute to the composer who has enamored audiences for hundreds of years. Single tickets on sale August 3; subscriptions available now!

Humanities and Fine Arts Center, CFCC campus, 411 N Front St ANI DEFRANCO

12/18: LESSONS AND CAROLS

Concerts on College will present the Girls’ Choir of Wilmington performing “Lessons and Carols” on the 18 at 7 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, 1401 S. College Road. Directed by Sandy Errante and her husband, Steven, the show will feature music of the holidays and across the globe. The girls will sing Celtic tunes, Moravian songs, Hebrew classics, a Huron carol, and English composer John Rutter’s favorites. The concert is free, though donations are welcome. For more infomration, visit www.girlschoirofwilmington.org. among other creative artists and musicians who share their inner light which shines, piercing through the darkness. Purchase seats on CAM’s website: www.cameronartmuseum. org , by phone and at the door. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 South 17th St.

BEETHOVEN’S EMPEROR CONCERTO

1/19, 7:30pm: Fill your ears with the musical brilliance of Beethoven at the new Humanities and Fine Arts Center in historic Downtown Wilmington. The NC Symphony is sure to bring you a night of class and relaxation with this

1/22, 7pm: 98.3 The Penguin FM & HUKA Entertainment presents Ani DiFranco with Hamell on Trial LIVE at the BAC! Tickets on sale! This is an all ages event! www.ticketfly.com/purchase/ event/1002009?_ga=1.45726948.17773507 2.1448284712. Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 North 4th Street WIND SYNC

1/22, 7:30pm: St. Paul’s Episcopal is pleased to present the WindSync wind quintet in concert in the sanctuary of St. Paul’s located at 16 N 16th Street, Wilmington. This is the second of five concerts in the 2015-16 Music at St. Paul’s Guest Artist Series. Tickets are $15. 910-762-4578 or www.spechurch.com/music. All ages. 16 N. Sixteenth St.

Modern Western Style Square Dance. Club meets Thurs. nights at 7pm at the Senior Center for a new workshop on square dancing.

Info: 270-1639

CONTRA DANCE

Tuesday and Thursday night dances, 5th Ave United Methodist Church on South 5th Ave at Nun, 7:30-9:30pm.Social dance for all levels; singles and couples, families, college and high school students and folks of all dancing abilities are invited to come. $5; 910-619-9686.

art BIRDS OF A FEATHER

Karen Paden Crouch and Mark Weber will be having a show at ACME Art Studios from Nov. 27th - Dec.18th. The show features paintings based on sculptures by Karen and pieces she has sculpted based on Mark’s work. The opening reception is Friday, Nov. 27th from 6-9pm.

Acme Art Studios, 711 N 5th Ave.

BAC POP-UP

dance IRISH STEP DANCE

Traditional Irish Step Dancing Beginners to Championship level ages 5-adult! Mondays nights. The studio is located at 1211 South 44th St. www.walshkelleyschool.com.

BABS MCDANCE STUDIO

76’ERS SQUARE DANCE CLUB

Wilmington’s premier social dance studio featuring group and private lessons in shag, swing, hip-hop, Latin, foxtrot, cha-cha, belly dancing, ballroom, Zumba, and more - weekly with various pricing. For more info on prices and weekly social events, visit www.babsmcdance.com or call 395-5090.

12/19, 11am: Need something special and unique for the holidays? Buy something from a local artist and support your local economy!

While you are picking something out, listen to some incedible live local musicians: Pet Names (Acoustic), Death by Fireworxxx (Emma Nelson & Evan Baker), Dylan Drake, Austin Glover, Plus, and DJ Ol’ Filthy Sweaty. Detour Deli & Cafe, 510 1/2 Red Cross St.

FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT

“Fourth Friday Gallery Night” is now coordinated by The Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County, feat. 16 local art galleries and studios that will open their doors to the public in an after-hours celebration of art

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and culture, from 6-9pm, every fourth Friday of the month through 2014. Rhonda Bellamy at 910-343-0998, 221 N. Front St. Suite 101. www. artscouncilofwilmington.org ARTIST STUDIOS

1/2, 10am: Fine Artists share their work with the public at this unique and friendly Art Village.

Over 40 studios, for you to explore! Don’t forget to visit on the 4th Friday of the month from 6 to pm to enjoy live music! theArtWorks, 200 Willard St.

31ST ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOW

The 31st Annual Holiday Show opens at New Elements Gallery features new work from the gallery’s talented roster of artists. This year’s holiday show will benefit The Carousel Center, a Wilmington non-profit dedicated to providing safe spaces for abused and neglected children. Show will remain on view until January 22, 2016. Now celebrating 30 years, New Elements Gallery is located at 201 Princess Street, the corner of 2nd and Princess, in historic downtown Wilmington. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11am-6pm or by appt.

museum CAPE FEAR MUSEUM

Exhibits: Collection Selections: Smoking; closes 1/10/16: For centuries, people have smoked tobacco and other substances for religious, social, and medical reasons—and simply for pleasure. Cape Fear Museum’s collection includes over 200 artifacts related to smoking, from 18th century clay pipe fragments to 20th century lighters, ashtrays, matchbooks and cigarette advertisements. Come view a selection of this diverse collection of objects. • Reflections in

Black and White, closes 5/17/16: Cape Fear Museum’s newest in-house exhibition, Reflections in Black and White, features a selection of informal black and white photographs taken by black and white Wilmingtonians after World War II before the Civil Rights movement helped end legalized segregation. Visitors will have a chance to compare black and white experiences and reflect on what people’s lives were like in the region during the latter part of the Jim Crow era. Examine mid-century cameras and photographic equipment and experience the “thrill” of opening a replica camera store photo envelope, a rare experience in today’s digital world. Flip through some recreated pages from Claude Howell’s scrapbooks, and take your own photograph in a 1950s setting. • For All the World to See: Visual Culture and the Struggle for Civil Rights, 11/10-1/7/16: For All the World to See: Visual Culture and the Struggle for Civil Rights examines the role that visual culture played in shaping and transforming the struggle for racial equality in America from the late 1940s to the mid-1970s. Through a compelling assortment of photographs, television clips, art posters, and other historic artifacts, For All the World to See traces how images and media disseminated to the American public transformed the modern civil rights movement and jolted Americans, both black and white, out of a state of denial or complacency. 910-7984370. Hours: Tues-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun., 1-5pm. $5-$8. Free for museum members and children under 3. New Hanover County residents’ free day is the first Sun. ea. month. 814 Market St. capefearmuseum MISSILES AND MORE MUSEUM

Topsail Island’s Missiles and More Museum features the rich history and artifacts of this area from prehistoric to present time. Exhibits: Op-

eration Bumblebee, missile project that operated on Topsail Island shortly after World War II; Camp Davis, an important antiaircraft training center during WWII located near Topsail Island; WASPS, group of young, daring women who were the first female pilots trained to fly American military aircraft during WWII; Pirates of the Carolinas, depicting the history and “colorful” stories of 10 pirates in the Carolinas including the infamous Blackbeard; Shell Exhibits, and intricate seashells from all over the world as well as Topsail; and more! 720 Channel Blvd. in Topsail Beach. Mon-Fri, 2-5pm; after Memorial Day through Sat, 2-5pm. 910-328-8663 or 910328-2488. www.topsailmissilesmuseum.org.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Mon, Little Sprouts Storytime, 10am, and Go Green Engineer Team, 3:30pm. • Tues., Kids Cooking Club, 3:30pm • Wed., Preschool Science, 10am; Discover Science, 3:30pm; and Mini Math, 4pm. • Thurs. StoryCOOKS, 10am; and StART with a Story, 3:30pm • Fri., Toddler Time, 10am; and Adventures in Art, 3:30pm • Drop off gently used books at our museum to be used for a good cause. Ooksbay Books uses book collection locations to help promote literacy, find a good use for used books, and benefit nonprofits.• www.playwilmington.org 116 Orange St. 910-254-3534

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM

The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, housed in the turn of the century Myers Cottage, exists to preserve and to share the history of Wrightsville Beach. Visitors to the cottage will find a scale model of Wrightsville Beach circa 1910, exhibits featuring the early days of the beach including Lumina Pavilion, our hurricane history and information about the interaction between the people and our natural environment which have shaped the 100 year history of Wrightsville Beach. (910) 256-2569. 303 West Salisbury St. wbmuseum.com.

WILMINGTON RAILROAD MUSEUM

Explore railroad history and heritage, especially of the Atlantic Coast Line, headquartered in Wilmington for 125 years. Interests and activities for all ages, including historical exhibits, full-size steam engine and rolling stock, lively Children’s Hall, and spectacular model layouts.

House in an authentic 1883 freight warehouse, facilities are fully accessible and on one level.

By reservation, discounted group tours, caboose birthday parties, and after-hours meetings or mixers. Story Time on 1st/3rd Mondays at 10:30am, only $5 per family and access to entire Museum. Admission only $9.00 adult, $8.00 senior/military, $5.00 child age 2-12, and free under age 2. North end of downtown, 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 MonFri, 10am-4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. The Latimer House of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. Third St. 762-0492. www.latimerhouse.org CAPE FEAR SERPENTARIUM

World’s most fascinating and dangerous reptiles in beautiful natural habitats, feat. a 12foot saltwater crocodile, “Bubble Boy.” and “Sheena”, a 23ft long Reticulated Python that can swallow a human being whole! Giant Anaconda weighs 300 lbs, w/15 ft long King Cobras hood up and amaze you. See the Black Mamba, Spitting Cobras, Inland Taipans, Gaboon Vipers, Puff Adders, and more! Over 100 species, some so rare they are not exhibited anywhere else. One of the most famous reptile collections on earth. Open everyday in summer, 11am-5pm (Sat. till 6 pm); winter schedule, Wed-Sun. 20 Orange St, across from the Historic Downtown Riverwalk, intersecting Front and Water Street. (910) 762-1669 or www. capefearserpentarium.com.

BELLAMY MANSION

One of NC’s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans, for John Dillard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, planter and business leader; and his wife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (1821-1907) and their nine children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington. Now a museum, itf ocuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action.910-251-3700. www.bellamymansion.org. 503 Market St.

CAMERON ART MUSEUM

Exhibits: José Bernal: Obra de Arte, through 2/26: First retrospective of Cuban born-American artist José Bernal (1925-2010). Born in Santa Clara, Cuba, Bernal excelled at both music and visual art as a child and, after receiving his Master’s Degree, began his teaching career while continuing to produce his artwork. In 1961, Bernal was arrested for unpatriotic behavior for refusal to work in the sugar cane fields. After this incident, Bernal and his wife Estela secured visas for themselves and their three children to leave Cuba for America and, by 1962, relocated to Chicago. Although he rarely exhibited, Bernal worked prolifically, producing hundreds of works throughout his lifetime and exploring the various mediums of painting, collage, assemblage and ceramics.

• Response is the Medium through 1/10/16: In 1977 interactive art pioneer Myron W. Kruger stated, “The beauty of the visual and aural re-

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sponse is secondary. Response is the medium!

As an art form, this is unique. Instead of an artist creating a piece of artwork, the artist is creating a sequence of possibilities.” The exhibition Response is the Medium explores the innovative ways artists are utilizing technology, perception and audience interaction in creating their work. Media artists Brian Knep, Daniel Rozin and Purring Tiger (Aaron Sherwood and Kiori Kawai); metalsmith Gabriel Craig and composer Michael Remson. CAM Café hrs: Tues-Sat, 11am-3pm; Sun, 10am3pm; Thurs. dinner. 910-395-5999. www. cameronartmuseum.org BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE

18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmington’s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th and 19th century decor and gardens. Colonial life is experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen-building and courtyard. 3rd and Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. Admission rqd. (910) 762-0570. www.burgwinwrighthouse.com.

BEETHOVEN’S 5K/15K

1/24, 9am: Join Mr. Beethoven in a great distance event benefiting the Wilmington Sym-

12/17: GREENFIELD LAKE HIKE

Each month folks are welcome to hike along local parks and trails as part of the Wilmington Parks and Recreation programs. On December 17, they’re staying local at Greenfield Lake Park (310 Willard St.). The hike is approximately 2 miles and they will explore the NC Birding Trail in the Coastal Plain. Pre-registration is required, and the hike is a mere $10. Register online at www. halyburtonpark.com. Or call (910) 341-0075 for more information.

sports/recreation FREE WORKOUTS: CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

at the proper pace. The Children’s Museum of Wilmington are: 12/5, 12/12, and 12/19 at 9am Saturday mornings. Free, but donation asked to benefit the Children’s Museum of Wilmington. 3305 Burnt Mill Dr.

Wilmington Performance Lab has recently started offering free workouts at its facility at 3305 Burnt Mill Dr. on Saturdays at 9:00 am. They will not be charging for the workouts but are collecting donations to benefit The Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Wilmington Performance Lab is a privately owned personal training facility catering to each client’s individual needs and fitness goals. Nationally certified trainers ensure all workouts are challenging, but specific to current fitness levels and progressed

phony and its youth education programs on Sunday, January 24th, 9:00 am, at Brunswick Forest. The event offers 5K and 15K races, and 1K, 5K and 15K walks. This is the perfect tune-up race for late winter and early spring marathons and half marathons. Individual and 4-person team entry categories are available.

It features unique picturesque courses through beautiful Brunswick Forest, snazzy tee-shirts, customized 15K finisher medals, inside bathrooms and locker rooms, and a post-race party at the Fitness Center in the Leland Room with adult beverages, good food, vendors and ex-

hibitors. Costume awards category for athletes wearing Beethoven wigs, carrying musical instruments, or just wearing the costume of your choice. Fundraiser for the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra. www.wilmingtonsymphony.org/ beethoven-15k5k.html.

GREENFIELD LAKE HIKE

12/17, 8am: Each month we will explore a different site along the NC Birding Trail in the Coastal Plain. Each hike will be approximately 2 miles. Transportation from Halyburton Park is included.

Pre-registration required. Register online by visiting www.halyburtonpark.com or call 341.0075. Cost is $10. Greenfield Lake Park, 310 Willard St.

film BEHIND THE GARAGE

Behind the Garage Series: Subversive Films & Experimental Music. Subversive films shown every Sunday at 8pm, followed by experimental musical guests. 8PM: Controversial, eyeopening and entertaining films & documentaries shown weekly. 10PM: Experimental, avant garde, noise, and other unclassfiable musical performances at 10. Hosted by Karl Tyler Perry. Juggling Gypsy Cafe & Hookah Bar, 1612 Castle St FREEDOM RIDERS

1/16, 2pm: Attracting a diverse group of volunteers—black and white, young and old, male and female, secular and religious, northern and southern—the Freedom Rides of 1961 took the civil rights struggle out of the courtroom and onto the streets of the Jim Crow South. Freedom Riders tells the terrifying, moving, and suspenseful story of a time when white and black volunteers riding a bus into the Deep South risked being jailed, beaten, or killed, as white local and state authorities ignored or encouraged violent attacks. The film includes previously unseen amateur 8mm footage of the burning bus on which some Freedom Riders were temporarily trapped, taken by a local twelve-year-old and held as evidence since 1961 by the FBI. (120 minutes) Seating limited to 70 people. CF Museum, 814 Market Street

THEATRE NOW

Children’s Theater Super Saturday Fun Time.

Kid’s live adventure and variety show. Saturdays. Doors open att 3pm. $8/$1 off with Kid’s Club Membership. Drop off service available.

Tickets: www.theatrewilmington.com or 910399-3NOW

BE A WINTER EXPLORER

1/7, 10am: Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Parental participation is required. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market Street

WINTER WEATHER WONDERS

1/14, 10am: Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, ex-

ploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Parental participation is required. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St. PRESCHOOL: ANIMAL TRACKS

12/22, 10am and 11:30am: Bring your “Little Explorers” out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Ages: 2-5. Cost: $3 (pre-registration is required). Pre-reg. is required. Visit halyburtonpark.com to register online or call (91)0 3410075. Halyburton Park, 4099 S. 17th St.

BEGINNING FENCING CLASSES

1/5, 6:30pm: The class lasts for twelve sessions with each session lasting approximately one hour. If weather or other issues force a cancellation we will add classes on until we get to twelve sessions. Class will teach history, footwork, bladework, rules, tactics, and end in a class tournament. Appropriate for ages 8 – 80. Cost for the 8 session class is $50. You will also need to have a USA Fencing membership for insurance purposes. The non-competitive membership costs $10 and is good until July 31, 2016. Fencers should wear sneakers and loose fitting clothing. CFFA provides all fencing equipment. Class is taught by Greg Spahr: gregoryspahr@yahoo.com or (910) 799-8642.

Tileston Gym at St. Mary, 5th and Ann

HOMESCHOOL FENCING CLASSES

The class lasts for eight sessions with each session lasting approximately one hour. If weather or other issues force a cancellation we will add classes on until we get to 8 sessions.

Will teach history, footwork, bladework, rules, tactics, and end in a class tournament. Appropriate for ages 8 – 18. Cost for the 8 session class is $40. You will also need to have a USA Fencing membership for insurance purposes.

The non-competitive membership costs $10 and is good until July 31, 2015.Fencers should wear sneakers and loose fitting clothing. CFFA provides all fencing equipment. Class is taught

by Greg Spahr: gregoryspahr@yahoo.com or (910) 799-8642. Tileston Gym at St. Mary, 5th and Ann streets

lectures/readings BARNES AND NOBLE

Every Friday night we have a family story time with activities. • Toddler Story Time, 10am, every Tuesday for toddler story time and coloring.

• 7pm: Join us every third Thursday of each month as we talk about Magic Tree House stories and adventures and enjoy crafts and activities. • Join us every third Thursday of each month as we talk about Magic Tree House stories and adventures and enjoy crafts and activities. • American Girl Night, every second Thursday of each month to talk about American Girl stories and enjoy crafts and activities.

• Barnes & Noble, 750 Inspiration Drive

classes/workshops ENVISIONING NEW YEAR

Interested in submitting to the calendar? Enter your event two weeks ahead of the event date at www.encorepub.com.

Click on “add event” to the Spingo calendar, located on the right-hand side of the home page. We will add it to our database of print listings for free. Deadline: Thursday, noon.

42 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

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1/1, 1pm: 2 hour class as to create a clear picture of the life you’d like to manifest. Workshop will be interactive and discussion based with a combination of a vinyasa flow practice, contemplation, pranayama, meditation, standing poses, hand balances and journaling. All levels welcome. Contemplation, asana, pranayama, meditation, mantra, journaling, dharma talks and storytelling are the mediums we practice with to love our artful lives. Bring your journals and a pen! $25 if registered before Jan. 1/$30 day of. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Drive #200

clubs/notices THE REALLY REALLY FREE MARKET

The Really, Really Free Market (RRFM) movement is a non-hierarchical collective of individuals who form a temporary market based on an alternative gift economy. The RRFM movement aims to counteract capitalism in a non-reactionary way. It holds as a major goal to build a community based on sharing resources, caring for one another and improving the collective lives of all. Markets often vary in character, but they generally offer both goods and services.

Participants bring unneeded items, food, skills and talents such as entertainment or haircuts.

A RRFM usually takes place in an open community space such as a public park or community commons. Located at Greenfield Lake, near the playground and skatepark. Usually under one of the picnic shelters. Monthly meetings; see FB page for updates.

EARRING WORKSHOP

1/16, 10am: Learn to manipulate and texture wire to make a beautiful pair of mixed-metal, hammered earrings. A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts, 341 S College Rd Ste 50.

INDOOR CYCLING

1/4, 9am: The Wrightsville Beach Parks & Recreation Department received a generous donation of indoor stationary bicycles for use in our fitness program. Classes will be held in the modular facility adjacent to Town Hall. (910) 256-7925 for fees. Wrighstville Beach Parks and Recreation, 1 Bob Sawyer Drive.

DOCTOR WHO WEDNESDAYS

Come in to watch Doctor Who episodes every Wednesday night. Come in Cosplay, be a dork, be a geek, nerd out, but most of all be a Whovian! Browncoat Pub & Theatre, 111 Grace Street

BUILD IT

1/9, 10am: Pre-K. 11am and noon, ages 5-14.

Free for members or with general admission.

What is a structural foundation and why is it so important? Conduct fun and creative building experiments and make your own newspaper tower to take home. Take an engineering challenge and practice technical communication.

Parental participation required. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market Street

AZALEA COAST EXECUTIVE NETWORK

Meets the first Monday of each month at 5:30 pm for networking, dinner at 6 at Henry’s, 2508 Independence Blvd. Wilmington. Female business women networking and professional development. Dinner is dutch $15; annual membership $24. Details 762-8562. Henry’s Restaurant Wilmington NC, 2508 Independence Blvd.

HR ESSENTIALS FOR NONPROFITS

1/12, 8:30am: 3rd module in a specially designed series of Human Resource Essentials for Nonprofit Leaders that is designed for organizations with less than 50 employees—this 4 module series examines how workplace decisions, made with knowledge, minimizes risk and maximizes performance. During Module 3: Performance Management, you will become familiar with an abundance of resources and receive tools to help you better administer and manage. To ensure confidentiality and openness in the class, participants will be split into two groups.

Top level managers will work in one room while mid-level managers will be in a separate room. UNCW Fisher Union, Azalea Coast Room, 601 College Rd.

ART CLASSES

Wed, 10am: Basic watercolor, small classes, four weeks, 2 hours. Sun Room, 6905 Southern Exposure.

PORSCHE CLUB MEETING

Porsche Club of America (PCA), Hurricane Region Coastal Area, would like to invite you to join us for our monthly meeting at Panera Bread Co. in Mayfaire Town Center,156 Military Cutoff

12/17: FERMENTAL On the 17, Fermental will offer wine, sparkling wine and beer in a holiday sampling party.

Flavors from France, Italy, South Africa, and the U.S. will be showcased and sampled. Plus, there will be live music from Roger Davis. The latest food truck, T’Geaux Boys Food truck, will be serving up delicious eats, and it all gets underway at 6 p.m. Oh, and it’s free to attend, though full beverages and food are sold separately.

seafood • steak • sushi • chinese buffet

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44 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

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Road. We meet at 9am on the third Saturday of every month to talk about our favorite cars and to plan activities. PCA offers driving experience, technical assistance, member benefits, and camaraderie second to none. Membership is open to all Porsche owners, co-owners, or lessees who are 18 years of age or older, and includes a subscription to the national club magazine Panorama and the bi-monthly Hurricane Region newsletter Der Wirbelsturm (The Cyclone). Check out our website at: http:// hur.pca.org. David Ikle, 910-547-3564, e-mail dikle@ec.rr.com CAPE FEAR CAMERA CLUB

Club meets third Tues. each month, Sept thru June, 7pm at Cape Fear Community College, McCloud Bldg, room S002. www.capefearcameraclub.org

CAPE FEAR KNITTERS

Cape Fear Knitters, the Wilmington chapter of The Knitting Guild of America (TKGA) meets the third Sat. ea. month, 10am-noon. Gerri: 371-3556. Judy: 383-0374.

CAPE FEAR WEDDING ASSOCIATION

Meet and greets the third Wed. ea. month. $25, members free. capefearweddingassociation. com

YOUNG DEMOCRATS OF NHC

Meet the 1st and 3rd Tues. ea. month at the downtown public library, third floor, 6:30pm.

Ages 18-35.

COUPON CLUB

Wilmington Coupon Club meets monthly, second Monday, at 6pm Come exchange coupons and learn how to save money. www.wilmingtoncouponclub.com

culinary FERMENTAL

Weekly wine and beer tasting, Fridays.• 12/17, 6pm: Hand selected for seasonal celebrations as well as the approaching colder weather, this event features a variety of wine and beer from France, Italy, South Africa and the US. From festive and refreshing sparkling wines to old world classics and modern day varietals; sip, sample, and savor your way through a delicious dozen of holiday favorites. Live music throughout the evening from local jazz musician Roger Davis accompanied by the T’Geaux Boys Food Truck; as you kick off the holiday drinking season at Fermental on Thursday, December 17th at 6pm. • 12/31, 8pm: New Years Eve Celebration featuring live music with Kyle Lindley and Boba Funk. Champagne toast. Food Trucks and more.910-821-0362 for details. Fermental, 7250 Market St. www.fermental.net.

WINEDOWN WEDNESDAYS

Free tasting of wine from around the globe. Every week hosted by a winery representative or vendor to teach you about the selections. All wines offered at a discount as well as an additional 10%off 6 packs and 15%off cases. Come winedown after a long humpday. Palate Bottle Shop & Reserve, 1007 N. 4th St.

WINE TASTING

Thurs/Fri, 5pm: Our weekly wine tastings feature six selections for your tasting pleasure. Try before you buy to load up your home cellar, or choose your favorite wine from the lineup and purchase a glass to enjoy at our tasting bar or in our garden seating. Cheers! A Tasting Room, 19 South 2nd Street

FEAST DOWN EAST BUYING CLUB

Enjoy the quality, value and convenience of the Feast Down East Buying Club. It costs nothing to join. The benefits are immeasurable.

It is a great way to eat healthier, while knowing you support your local farm families and community. Log on at www.FeastDownEast. org and start buying fresh local food, sourced from Southeastern NC farms. Choose a pickup spot, and check out at the online cashier and you are done! Orders must be placed by 11am Monday for Thursday delivery. Consumer pickup is Thursday 3:30-6pm at: the Cameron Art Museum, THE POD (located next to Dunkin Donuts on UNCW campus) or the Burgaw Historic Train Depot.

pc brew bus

Port City Brew Bus offers public brewery tours that are open to anyone 21 years or older. Eat a hearty breakfast before the tour. We will have pretzels, snacks, and water but there isn’t a stop for lunch. Visit three breweries to experience their facilities, understand the brewing process unique to their beers and enjoy samples of their offerings. $55. www.portcitybrewbus.com. (910) 679-6586

PC JAVA ROASTERY TOUR

Join us at Port City Java’s Corporate Headquarters for our monthly public roastery tour, coffee cupping & home brewing class! Learn how coffee is grown, harvested, processed and roasted through a tour of our facilities and see a formal coffee cupping to demonstrate the “taste of place” that makes each coffee so unique. See us demonstrate a few different brewing methods you can use to achieve that perfect PCJ cup at home.

Tour groups are limited to six people. Tickets are available for $15/person. portcityjava.com.

taste carolina food tours

Sample an eclectic assortment of downtown restaurants, enjoy food and drink, and meet some of the city’s best chefs. Public parking available. Saturday tours include a 2:30pm Downtown Afternoon Tasting Tour ($50/person)

WWW.BERTSURFSHOP.COM 3/2 WETSUIT PACKAGE: FULL SUIT, BOOTIES & GLOVES

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WILMINGTON - 5740 Oleander Drive • (910) 392-4501 SURF CITY - Hwy. 210 • (910) 328-1010 CAROLINA BEACH - Hwy 421 & Winner Ave • (910) 458-9047

CAST YOUR VOTE NOW!

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and a 3pm Downtown Dinner & Drinks Tour ($65/person). A 10am Farmers’ Market Tour ($75/person), and cooking class also available. www.tastecarolina.net WILMINGTON VEGAN POTLUCKS

Wilmington Vegan Supper Club Potlucks take place every first Thursday of every month at 6:30pm at Kitchen & Lounge at South Front Apartments, located on Greenfield Street at 2nd Street, across the street from Satellite. Bring a vegan dish to share, and swap recipes and socialize. Wilmington Vegan Lending Library will be there for you to grab a book as well. Bring a list of ingredients along with your dish (or even better, the recipe!. Dishes absolutely must be completely vegan—no meat, no fish, no dairy, no eggs, no chicken stock, no honey, and so on.

Bring a plate, utensils, and a drink. http://wilmingtonvegan.com for more info.

TASTING HISTORY TOURS

Tasting History Tours of Pleasure Island; guided walking tours. From its beginnings as a tourist destination, the island has weathered destructive fires, tragic hurricanes, naval battles and more. Tasting History takes you through the streets of Carolina Beach and into a few of the restaurants to taste some of what the locals have to offer. Join us for an afternoon of interesting history and tasty eats. $32.50, www. tastinghistorytours.com. 910-622-6046.

PORT CITY SWAPPERS

Port City Swappers is a monthly food and beverage swap where members of a community share homemade, homegrown, or foraged foods with each other. Swaps allow direct trades to take place between attendees, e.g., a loaf of bread for a jar of pickles or a half-dozen backyard eggs. No cash is exchanged, and no goods are sold. Diversify your pantry and go

home happy and inspired while meeting your neighbors! facebook.com/PortCitySwappers.

FOOD NOT BOMBS

To provide free Vegan and Vegetarian meals to the hungry. By sharing food we start a revolution. Food is a right, not a privilege. All our food is grown in the Food Not Bombs garden, and donated by local businesses, restaurants, farms, and people. Anyone can donate, and if you are unable to donate food, then donating your time is enough. Monthly meetups. www. foodnotbombs.net

WILMINGTON WINE SHOP

Join us to sample five new delicious wines we’ve brought in just for our customers during Free Friday Wine Tasting, 5-8pm. Have a bottle or glass of your favorite with friends afterwards in our cozy shop or on the back deck. And beer lovers don’t fret, we’ve got a fridge full of craft and micro-brews. 605 Castle St. 910-202-4749. www.wilmingtonwine.net.

NONI BACCA WINERY

Tasting room open seven days a week, 10am9pm (Mon-Sat) and 12-5pm (Sun.). Taste a flight of 6 or 9 wines; over 70 wines made on premise to sample at any time, served by the glass or the bottle. • Thurs.-Sat.: Specials at the bar on glasses and bottles of wine that run all day, but the crowd begins to gather around 7pm. Craft beer selection, too. We also make special label wines for weddings, corporate gifting, birthdays, reunions, or any event. 910397-7617.

RED BANK WINE

Red Bank’s wine of the week, Sat., 1-4pm. 1001 International Dr. 910-256-9480.

FORTUNATE GLASS

Free wine tasting, Tues. 6-8pm. • Sparkling

46 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

wine specials and discounted select bottles, Wed. & Thurs. • Monthly food and wine pairings. 29 South Front St. CAPE FEAR WINE AND BEER

welcome. 609-238-0174 or email clark@milioti. com. Wilmington Treatment Center, 2520 Troy Dr. About the FA organization: www.familiesanonymous.org or 847-294-5877 or 800-7369805. All calls and contacts are confidential.

Beer Church: Purchase select beer and keep your glass for free. 1st Mass starts, 1pm; 2nd OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS Mass , 8pm Free. • Beer Flights, Massage and Wednesdays, Pine Valley United MethodMonday Night NitroMassage Monday: 5-8pm, ist Church. OA is a 12-Step organization for $10 for 10 minutes with our licensed therapist, anyone suffering from compulsive overeating, Josh Lentz. Beer Flights: nine 5 oz samples anorexia, bulimia, or any food/eating-related for $18. • Monday Night Nitro: $1 off nitrogen issue. We have helped thousands of people pours. Free. • BYOT (Bring Your Own Trivia): stop their self-destructive habits and start livThe next wave of pub trivia. Prizes include gift ing healthy, rewarding lives. There are over 30 certificates to Chop’s Deli, Memory Lane Commeetings a week in the greater Triangle area. ics, and Browncoat Theatre & Pub, as well as We have no dues, fees, or religious affiliations. beer from us. $10 pitchers: Bartender’s choice.

Come and see how we can help you! Call 919All day. Free wine tasting: from 5-7 PM, with two 406-9300, or visit us at www.triangleoa.org. whites and two reds. Free • Beer Infusement 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B Thurs.: Come see what ingredients Randall the LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP Enamel Animal is enhancing upon delicious Third Tuesday of each month. There is no beer. Free. charge to attend the meeting, and drop-ins are welcome. Contact the LFANC at info@lupusnc.org or at 877-849-8271, ext. 1. For more information, visit www.lupusnc.org. This group provides participants with an opportunity to receive introductory information about lupus, enFAMILIES ANONYMOUS courage the expression of concerns, provide Thursdays, 7:30pm: A worldwide 12-step rean opportunity to share experiences, encourcovery fellowship has started a new group age and support positive coping strategies, in Wilmington for families whose lives are afand emphasize the importance of medical fected by a family member’s use of mind-altreatment. Meeting programs vary from guest tering substances or related behavioral probspeakers to DVD presentations and open lems—especially helpful to parents struggling group discussion. Northeast Regional Library, with an addicted child. Through meetings, liter1241 Military Cutoff Road ature and a caring fellowship, FA can help parents develop the skills to cope with this family OCD/ANXIETY SUPPORT GROUP disease and bring serenity back to their lives.

The first Thursday Dr. Savard does an eduNo dues or fees are required for membership. cational presentation and the third Thursday First names only are used at meetings to preis member led. Everyone 18 and older is welserve individual anonymity. Advance notice is come. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, not necessary to attend a meeting. Visitors are

support groups

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December 18 - 24 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. $12 adults, $5 Kids under 12

Snuggle under warm lap blankets while enjoying the beautiful Christmas lights!Market & Water Streets in Downtown Wilmington & FREE Candy Canes for the kids!

For more info call

(910) 251-8889

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3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B

SIGN UP: LOSS OF A SPOUSE

3715 Patriot Way • 910-769-3193

LUNCH OR DINNER *Expires February 16, 2016. Dine in only.

Gluten- Free Options available Mon. - Thur. 11am-3pm & 4:30-9:30pm Fri. 11am-3pm & 4:30-10pm Sat. 12-10pm • Closed Sunday

Transgender Support Group, 1st Thurs./mo., 7-8pm. For more information please contact Therapist Nova Swanstrom: 910-343-6890.

You must talk with Nova first before coming to a support group meeting!

Looking for a support group to help you through the tough grieving process of losing your spouse? The Lower Cape Fear Hospice and LifeCareCenter offers support groups starting January 14 and running through February 18.

They meet every Thursday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion, in the conference room (1406 Physicians Dr.).

For more information, call (910) 796-7991. All sessions are free. www.lcfh.org.

AA SOBRIETY MEETINGS

20% OFF

TRANSGENDER SUPPORT GROUP

Trudge through roadblocks rooted in past trauma(s), regardless of cause. Discussion (closed meeting for those with a desire to stop drinking). Fellowship Center (next to Intergroup), 5901 Wrightsville Ave. Wed. meetings, 7pm.

VISUALLY IMPAIRED SUPPORT GROUP

Blind/Visually Impaired Support Group. For more information please contact Jennifer Delong-White 910-251-5743. New Hanover County Senior Center, 2222 S. College Rd.

CROHNS/COLITIS SUPPORT GROUP

Local Crohns & Colitis Support Meeting. For more information, call 910-620-0191. Hospitality House,1523 Physicians Drive.

GAMBLER’S ANONYMOUS MEETING

Tues., 6:30pm: “Do you think you have a Gambling problem? Is gambling causing stress in your life? Do you often gamble recklessly until your last dollar is gone?

Does gambling cause you anxiety? There is help! Come join Wilmington Gambler’s Anonymous and take the first step to getting your life back in control.” Ogden Baptist Church, 7121 Market St. COPING WITH LOSS OF A SPOUSE

Meets every Thursday through 2/18, with discussions on the phases of grief and the grieving process, along with other areas of concern. Often being around others who have been through a similar experience enables participants to talk about what they are experiencing. Grief groups help emphasize that participants are not grieving alone and others understand and can support them on their grief journey. Registration is required and closes once the program begins. For more information, call 796-7991. When leaving a message, please leave your name, phone number and indicate the specific program you wish to attend. Sessions are free. Donations are appreciated. Additional groups will form throughout the year. Dr. Robert M. Fales Hospice Pavilion, Conference Room, 1406 Physicians Dr.

FOCUS ON YOU SUPPORT GROUP

Aims to provide an emotionally safe space

where women with cancer and their families can connect with others in the same situation.

Women of Hope uses education to empower women through early detection and continuing support throughout their treatment. Survivorship Support Group is for female cancer patient who is in any stage of treatment. Caregiver Support Group is for anyone affected by a loved one’s cancer diagnosis. Meets 2nd/4th Thurs, 6:30-8pm. Friendly Community Baptist Church, 1730 US Hwy. 117, Burgaw. Penelope at penelope@womenofhopenc.org.

THRIVE

A Christ-Centered 12-Step Support group, helping people overcome “Hurts, Habits and Hang-ups.” Thrive meets every Monday evening at 7pm at Life Community Church (LCC) inside Independence Mall. Large group begins at 7pm and men’s and women’s small groups begin at 8pm The meetings are in the Extension, which is next to Sears and across from Branches Bookstore. Contact information: Pastor Jim Snider 910-791-3859 or www.lifecc. com. 3500 Oleander Dr.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOC. SUPPORT GROUP

For family caregivers. It’s not appropriate for people with dementia to attend. The group meets the fourth Monday of every month, 2pm.

Free. Details: 399-5905 St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 16 North 16th Street

OCD/ANXIETY DISORDER SUPPORT GROUP

7pm: Building B. Group meets the first and third Thursday of each month. Open to adults 18 and older. Family members welcome. The first Thursday of each month is an educational presentation by Dr.Savard. Third Thursday is member led. Free. Details: 763-8134. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard

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MAIN ATTRACTIONS & SPECIAL EVENTS

It’s a Wonderful Life Tuesday DECEMBER 22 AT 7PM A Wilmington Holiday Tradition. Bring the whole family to see this classic on the big screen!

New Year’s Eve Gala Featuring the Broadway Show Memphis Presented by Thalian Hall and Cape Fear Theatre Arts

thursday

december 31 AT 7PM Ring in your New Year’s with the best party in town. Evening includes Dinner featuring Prime Rib, drink, Dancing, Champagne Toast and admission to Memphis.

Tickets available through the Thalian Hall Box Office by calling 910.632.2285 or online at ThalianHall.org Media Partners “Your alternative weekly voice”

50 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

TICKETS: 910.632.2285 • 800.523.2820 • WWW.THALIANHALL.ORG 310 CHESTNUT ST •WILMINGTON, NC 28401

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Blvd., Building B OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS

OA is a 12-Step organization for anyone suffering from compulsive overeating, anorexia, bulimia, or any food/eating-related issue. We have helped thousands of people stop their self-destructive habits and start living healthy, rewarding lives. We have no dues, fees, or religious affiliations. Come and see how we can help you! Call 919-406-9300, or visit us at www. triangleoa.org. Wednesdays at Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B

CHADD

Wilmington Area CHADD meets on the 2nd Monday of every month from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B. This free support group is open to a growing group of parents, grandparents and individuals affected by AD/HD who understand what it takes to face its daily challenges. Free. Pine Valley United Methodist Church 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B. http://www.WilmingtonCHADD.org

PSORIASIS SUPPORT GROUP

Meets the 2nd Sat. of month at Port City Java in Harris Teeter on College and Wilshire, 5pm.

Christopher: (910) 232-6744 or cvp@yahoo. com. Free; meet others with psoriasis and get educated on resources and program assistance.

MS SUPPORT GROUP

Meets the 2nd Thurs. ea. month at 7pm in the New Hanover Rehabilitation Hospital, 1st floor conference room, behind the Betty Cameron Women’s Hospital on 17th Street. Open to all with Multiple Sclerosis, family and friends.

Handicapped accessible parking and meet-

ing room. Affiliated with the Greater Carolinas Chapter of the National MS Society. Burt Masters, (910) 383-1368.

PFLAG

PFLAG Meeting is first Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.

LITERARY HISTORY WALKING TOUR

Saturdays, 1:30pm: Have you ever wanted to meet authors living and dead, tour locations from books, poems, and plays? Explore the rich culture of this 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. Cost $8: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1282390. Old Books on Front Street, 249 N. Front St.

es 2-1/2 hours 7:30 pm, Saturday evening dinner cruises 3 hours 6:30 pm. 343-1611. www. cfrboats.com THALIAN HALL TOURS

In addition to a full schedule of performances, self-guided tours of the theater are offered Mon-Fri, 12-6pm, Sat 2-6pm. Guided tours by appt. 343-3664.

kind & recycle Creators Besyndi or compost

HOLLYWOOD LOCATION TOURS

Tour one of America’s largest living film sets; historic downtown Wilmington. This fun-filled 90 minute walking tour will lead gue sts to actual movie & TV locations. Tours will depart Tues., Thurs., Sat. and Sun. afternoons at 2pm.

Reservations are required, $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, students or military and children 6 or under are free. 910-794-7177, www.HollywoodNC.com.

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HENRIETTA III CRUISES

An elegant, 3 tiered boat offering sight-seeing, lunch and dinner cruises, site seeing tours and a Sunset Dinner Cruise June-Aug. On the riverfront. April-Oct: Narrated sightseeing cruises 2:30pm 1-1/2 hours Tuesday-Sunday, Narrated lunch cruises 12:00 noon 1-1/2 hours TuesdaySaturday. May-Oct: Murder Mystery Dinner Cruises, Tuesday & Thursday evening 2 hours 6:30 pm; Apr-Dec: Friday evening dinner cruis-

BAJA California (43 Across) is the longest peninsula in the Western Hemisphere. MÉTIER (61 Across) is ultimately derived from the Latin ministerium, meaning “service.”

The Krugerrand (119 Across) is made from one troy ounce of gold, plus about three grams of copper, which adds durability.

You can contact puzzle editor Stanley Newman at www.

StanXwords.com. Or write him at P.O. Box 69, Massapequa Park, NY 11762. Please send a selfaddressed, stamped envelope if you’d like a reply.

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52 encore |december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com

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ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20) The Neanderthals were a different human species that co-existed with our ancestors, homo sapiens, for at least 5,000 years. Eventually, they died out while our people thrived. Why? One reason, says science writer Marcus Chown, is that we alone invented sewing needles.

Our newborn babies had well-made clothes to keep them warm and healthy through frigid winters. Neanderthal infants, covered with ill-fitting animal skins, had a lower survival rate.

Chown suggests that, although this provided us with a mere one-percent survival advantage, it turned out to be significant. I think you’re ready to find and use a small yet ultimately crucial edge like that over your competitors, Aries.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Artist Robert Barry created “30 Pieces,” an installation that consisted of pieces of paper on which he had typed the following statement: “Something which is very near in place and time, but not yet known to me.” According to my reading of the astrological omens, this theme captures the spirit of the phase you’re now entering. But I think it will evolve in the coming weeks. First, it’ll be, “Something which is very near in place and time, and is becoming known to me.” By mid-January it could turn into, “Something which is very near and dear, and has become known to me.”

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) “There is in every one of us, even those who seem to be most moderate, a type of desire that is uncanny, wild and lawless.” Greek philosopher Plato wrote that in his book, “The Republic,” and I’m bringing it to your attention just in time for your Season of Awakening and Deepening Desire. The coming days will be a time when you can, if you choose, more fully tune in to the uncanny, wild and lawless aspects of your primal yearnings. But wait a minute! I’m not suggesting you immediately take action to gratify them. For now, just feel and observe them. Find out what they have to teach you. Wait until the new year before you consider the possibility of expressing them.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Congratulations! You have broken all your previous records for doing boring tasks that are good for you. On behalf of the other 11 signs, I thank you for your heroic, if unexciting, campaign of self-improvement. You have not only purified your emotional resources and cleared out some breathing room for yourself, but you have made it easier for people to help you and feel close to you. Your duty has not yet been completed, however. There are a few more details to take care of before the gods of healthy tedium will be finished with you. Start looking for signs of your big chance to make a break for freedom. They’ll arrive soon.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) The English word “fluke” means “lucky stroke.” It originally was used in the game of billiards when a player made a good shot that he or she wasn’t even trying to accomplish. Later its definition expanded to include any fortuitous event that happens by chance rather than because of skill: good fortune generated accidentally. I suspect you are about to be the beneficiary of what may seem to be a series of flukes, Leo. In at least one case, though, your lucky break will have been earned by the steady work you’ve done without any fanfare.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You may not have to use a literal crowbar in the coming weeks, but this rough tool will serve you well as a metaphor. Wherever you go, imagine that you’ve got one with you. Why? It’s time to jimmy open glued-shut portals ... to pry loose mental blocks ... to coax unyielding influences to budge ... to nudge intransigent people free of their fixations. Anything that is stuck or jammed needs to get unstuck or unjammed through the power of your willful intervention.

known riches. In every way you can imagine, I urge you to go deeper down and further in.

Cultivate a more conscious connection with the core resources you sometimes take for granted. This is one time when delving into the darkness can lead you to pleasure and treasure.

As you explore, keep in mind advice from author T. Harv Eker: “In every forest, on every farm, in every orchard on earth, what’s under the ground creates what’s above the ground. That’s why placing your attention on the fruits you have already grown is futile. You can’t change the fruits that are already hanging on the tree. But you can change tomorrow’s fruits. To do so, you will have to dig below the ground and strengthen the roots.”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) In the coming weeks, the pursuit of pleasure could drain your creative powers, diminish your collaborative possibilities and wear you out. But it’s also possible that the pursuit of pleasure will enhance your creative powers, synergize your alliances and lead you to new opportunities. Which way will you go? It all depends on the kinds of pleasures you pursue. The dumb, numbing, mediocre type will shrink your soul. The smart, intriguing, invigorating variety will expand your mind. Got all that? Say “hell, no” to trivializing decadence so you can say, “Wow, yes!” to uplifting bliss.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Garnets are considered less valuable than diamonds. Out in the wild, there’s an intimate connection between these two gemstones. Wherever you find garnets near the surface of the earth, you can be reasonably sure that diamonds are buried deeper down in the same location. Let’s use this relationship as a metaphor for your life, Sagittarius. I suspect you have recently chanced upon a metaphorical version of garnets, or will do so soon. Maybe you should make plans to search for the bigger treasure toward which they point the way.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Ready for the Cool Anger Contest? You can earn maximum points by expressing your dissatisfaction in ways that generate the most constructive transformations. Bonus points will be awarded for your ability to tactfully articulate complicated feelings, as well as for your emotionally intelligent analyses that inspire people to respond empathetically rather than defensively. What are the prizes? First prize is a breakthrough in your relationship with an ally who could be crucial to your expansion in 2016. Second prize is a liberation from one of your limiting beliefs.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) A fourth-century monk named “Martin” was a pioneer winemaker in France. He founded the Marmoutier Abbey and planted vineyards on the surrounding land. According to legend, Martin’s donkey had a crucial role in lifting viticulture out of its primitive state. Midway through one growing season, the beast escaped its tether and nibbled on a lot of the grapevines. All the monks freaked out, fearing the crop was wrecked. Ultimately, the grapes grew better than they had in previous years, and the wine they produced was fabulous. Thus was born the practice of pruning, which became de rigueur for all grape-growers. What’s your equivalent of Martin’s donkey, Aquarius? I bet it’ll exert its influence very soon.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) ”The deepest urge in human nature is the desire to be important,” educator John Dewey said.

If that’s true, Pisces, you are on the verge of having your deepest urge fulfilled more than it has in a long time. The astrological alignments suggest you are reaching the peak of your value to other people. You’re unusually likely to be seen, appreciated and acknowledged for who you really are. If you have been underestimating your worth, I doubt you will be able to continue doing so. Here’s your homework: Take a realistic inventory of the ways your life has had a positive impact on the lives of people you have known

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) The coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to consort with hidden depths and un-

encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 53

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138 South Front Street • Downtown • Reservations • 910.251.0433 • www.littledipperfondue.com encore | december 16 – 22, 2015 | www.encorepub.com 55