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3 SALEM BAND, the oldest, continuous mixed-wind ensemble in the nation, will present its annual winter concert Sunday at 3 p.m. in Hanes Auditorium in the Elberson Fine Arts Center, located on the main campus of Salem Academy and College, 601 S. Church St., WinstonSalem.
5 “GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIE,” producer/director Gore Verbinski’s first feature in nearly a decade, is a bold, brash grab bag stuffed with neat ideas, some of which have been done before and some done better...
7 For the fourth time in the past 10 years, Greensboro is looking for a NEW POLICE CHIEF, and for the fourth time in a row, the City has hired the same company to help find a replacement.
8 On Feb. 5, former tenants of the condemned Greensboro apartment complex, The District, received emails stating that refunds for their deposits and rent were available at the leasing office. Upon arrival, they were given a SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT to sign.
10 I have seen restaurants close in the past — I’ve been writing about area restaurants for over 40 years. But I have never seen FIVE CLOSINGS in the same week. Most of the attention has been directed toward downtown, but we have to add two others, including the K&W Cafeteria near Friendly Shopping Center. Seven in a short time.
12 The award-winning PBS documentary series, “INDEPENDENT LENS,” has announced the launch of the upcoming season of Indie Lens Pop-Up.
13 Several weeks ago Joyce Darr, owner of PRIMROSE ESTHETICS in Jamestown, hosted a junk journaling class at her business. Although the activity seems to be experiencing a revival in the craft world, Darr noted she has enjoyed junk journaling since high school.
Salem Band celebrates the season in style
BY MARK BURGER
Salem Band, the oldest, continuous mixed-wind ensemble in the nation, will present its annual winter concert Sunday at 3 p.m. in Hanes Auditorium in the Elberson Fine Arts Center, located on the main campus of Salem Academy and College, 601 S. Church St., Winston-Salem. Admission is free. For more information, visit https://salemband.org/
This year’s presentation o ers a varied and eclectic selection of classical and more modern pieces that exemplify the talent and versatility of Salem Band, including “Resound” by Nicole Piunno; Alfred Reed’s “Hounds of Spring;” “Jubilate,” based on “The Lone Wild Bird/Prospect;” the jazzy “Stick Figures;” “Waltz No. 2” by Shostakovich featuring principal saxophonist Sara Emery; Eric Whitacre’s popular “Sleep;” and more. The featured soloist for this program is local soprano vocalist Kathryn Muhlenkamp, who will perform Puccini’s “Musetta’s Waltz” from “La Boheme” and “I Dreamed a Dream” from the theatrical smash “Les Misérables” with the band.
“We present a winter concert annually in February, and it has morphed into a program that — unlike most of our other concerts — has no particular theme,” explained Dr. Eileen Young, the music director of Salem Band for the last 15 years. “The winter program typically includes music that is both original band/ wind ensemble and more challenging to play. For our more advanced players — Salem Band includes a few professional musicians — it is important to me to keep them musically engaged. I also use this winter program to include the musicians’ ‘wish-lists’ of compositions they would like to play. Our audiences really like to hear about the individual musicians in the band and why
they are passionate about the music they recommended.”
In terms of what she hopes audiences take away from the concert, it begins with “an appreciation for original band music and its complexity compared to the more popsstyle music we present on summer concerts,” Young said, as well as “the ability to hear and enjoy local talent — I find soloists in this area for all concerts that require one. Our audiences typically love to hear vocal soloists with Salem Band, so we are happy to be working with WinstonSalem resident and soprano Katie Muhlenkamp, who is known in this area for her roles with Piedmont Opera and musical theater.”
Another important facet is “recognition of the hard work that our musicians put into this di cult program, and giving the audience a chance to get to know our musicians via their choices of selections for the program,” she said. “I ask the musicians why they chose these pieces and what the music means to them, and then I relay that as part of my concert script. The way in which I organize concert programs is unconventional, but it is based on what our audiences want and what will motivate our musicians to continue to volunteer their time and talents for this community concert band and for the greater community.”
This year’s preparation for the winter concert was, not surprisingly, complicated by some of the worst winter weather in the region’s recent history. Complicated but not compromised, according to Young. “Salem Band rehearses on Tuesday nights (and) after missing one Tuesday-night rehearsal and then realizing we were going to miss a second, I regrouped,” she said. “I cut a piece from the program — which still leaves us plenty of music to perform — [then] added a rehearsal last Saturday, and lengthened remaining rehearsals
from 90 minutes to two hours each. This has been very successful. After the last rehearsal, I feel like Salem Band will be ready for the concert!”
Salem Band, which is currently comprised of 70 musicians, was established in 1771 and celebrated its 250th anniversary during the 2021-’22 academic year. All of its concerts are free and open to the public. For more information, call 336-413-2180 or visit https://salemband. org/, or follow Salem Band on Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/SalemBandFan/ !
Katie Muhlenkamp
“DEATHSTALKER” (Shout! Studios/ Radial Entertainment): Writer/director Steven Kostanski’s re-imagination/ reboot of the popular ‘80s Roger Corman-produced sword-and-sorcery franchise stars Daniel Bernhardt as the brawny, fearless titular character, battling the forces of evil (personified by Paul Lazenby and Nicholas Rice’s snarling heavies) with the help of a diminutive, wise-cracking wizard (played by newcomer Laurie Field and voiced by Patton Oswalt) and a fetching female warrior (Christina Orjalo). This giddy, goofy, gory medieval romp is rife with campy humor and wacky effects, although the lack of pulchritude — a mainstay of the earlier films — may frustrate die-hard fans, available on Blu-ray ($17.99 retail) boasting audio commentaries, behind-the-scenes interviews, music video, and trailer. Rated R.
“FRIGHTMARE” (Troma Films/ MVD Entertainment Group): Ferdinand Mayne headlines writer Norman Thaddeus Vane’s 1981 feature directorial debut as a legendary horror actor (and sometime murderer) who dies, only to have his coffin exhumed by a group of fans (including Luca Bercovici and a pre-“Re-Animator” Jeffrey Combs), only to revive and go on a murderous rampage. An inspired idea to combine vintage horror with slasher trappings that never quite hits the right notes despite some nice moments along the way, including fun appearances by Nita Talbot and Leon Askin. Mayne shines in a rare lead role, but ultimately this is a missed opportunity. The “Tromatic special edition” Blu-ray ($19.95 retail) includes audio commentaries, vintage audio interview with Vane (who died in 2015), original trailer, artwork gallery, and more. Rated R.
“HANKY PANKY” (Mill Creek Entertainment/Alliance Home Entertainment): The Blu-ray bow ($27.99 retail) of the 1982 comedy/thriller reuniting “Stir Crazy” director Sidney Poitier and leading man Gene Wilder, cast as a mild-mannered architect caught up in international espionage when he’s wrongfully accused of murder, with Gilda Radner as his love interest. A clumsy, sub-par Hitchcockian romp notable primarily as the film that brought Wilder and Radner together
[VIDEO VAULT]
BY MARK BURGER
DVD PICK OF THE WEEK: “HEAVEN” (Lightyear Entertainment)
“HEAVEN” (Lightyear Entertainment): Approaching its 40th anniversary, this 1987 documentary marked the feature debut of Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton as a writer/director, a whimsical and imaginative meditation on the concept of heaven and the afterlife, made all the more bittersweet by Keaton’s death last year at age 79. It was her only documentary, the only film in which she had a writing credit and, in its own quirky way, it’s one of a kind. Just like Diane Keaton.
Keaton employs vintage movie clips and a variety of popular songs by the likes of Sam Cooke, Lionel Richie, The Residents, The Dream Academy, and others to
explore di erent ideas of the hereafter, while also interviewing an eclectic selection of people including members of her family, Swami Pem Amitabh, boxing promoter Don King (!), and Victoria Sellers, the daughter of Peter Sellers and Britt Ekland (who had recently posed for Playboy) as to their personal perception or interpretation of what heaven could or should be.
Running a trim 80 minutes, “Heaven” never outstays its welcome, thanks in large part to Keaton’s deft execution and an e ective score by future Oscar winner Howard Shore. Rather than approach the topic in a profound or heavyhanded manner, it’s approached with an upbeat, unpretentious curiosity that’s both imaginative and gently thought-provoking. Coincidentally or not, Keaton had directed the Belinda Carlisle music video “Heaven is a Place on Earth” just prior to tackling this project, which was perhaps an impetus for doing so.
Despite generally positive reviews and Keaton’s tireless promotional e orts, “Heaven” literally died at the box-o ce in its arthouse release. Admittedly, it was a hard sell, but over the years it slowly built a following and was recently re-released to theaters. It’s well worth a look.
The limited-edition Blu-ray retails for $24.95. Rated PG-13.
as a real-life couple, with Kathleen Quinlan, Robert Prosky, Josef Sommer, Johnny Sekka, and the alwayswelcome Richard Widmark (typecast as the heavy) floundering in support. Rated PG.
“KEEPER” (Decal — NEON): Osgood Perkins directed this atmospheric, darkly humorous chiller in which couple Tatiana Maslany (also an executive producer) and Rossif Sutherland (also a co-executive producer) spend the weekend at his family’s remote cabin, where strange things transpire that effectively put a chill on their rapidly deteriorating relationship. The two leads acquit themselves well (as does Burkett Turton as Sutherland’s obnoxious cousin), and although the final twist is a whopper it’s entirely in keeping with what has preceded it. Perkins has established himself as a genre filmmaker to reckon with, and cult status is likely. Both the DVD ($26.98 retail) and 4K
all concerned, including Lela Rochon and the always welcome Paul Sorvino (as a duplicitous CIA supervisor), although some observers appreciated Hark’s flair for action. Bonus features include audio commentary, collectible mini-poster, retrospective and vintage interviews, original theatrical trailer, and more. Rated R.
“LET’S SPEND THE NIGHT TOGETHER” (Kino Lorber Studio Classics): Hal Ashby directed this colorful 1982 concert documentary featuring The Rolling Stones (Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, Ron Wood, and Charlie Watts) during their 1981 North American Tour at the Brendan Byrne Arena in E. Rutherford, N.J. and Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, AZ, performing such classic rock tunes as “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “Honky Tonk Women,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “Brown Sugar,” “Tumbling Dice,” “Shattered,” “Waiting on a Friend,” “Time Is on My Side” (the film’s original title), the title track, and many others. A must for music mavens, this captures the Stones arguably at their concert peak, available on DVD ($19.95 retail), specialedition Blu-ray ($29.95 retail), and 4K Ultra HD combo ($44.95 retail), each boasting audio commentaries and theatrical trailer. Rated PG.
Ultra HD combo ($42.98 retail) include audio commentary, theatrical teaser, and trailer. Rated R.
“KNOCK OFF” (MVD Rewind Collection/MVD Entertainment Group): A two-disc “collector’s-edition” 4K Ultra HD combo ($49.95 retail) of director Tsui Hark’s dim-witted 1998 JeanClaude Van Damme vehicle, set against the backdrop of Hong Kong’s handover, with the “Muscles from Brussels” enmeshed in international intrigue involving the illicit smuggling of explosives by rogue Russian agents. If you can buy Van Damme as a fashion designer and Rob Schneider as an undercover CIA agent posing as his partner, this is the movie for you. Hark’s second American film with Van Damme (following the equally lamentable “Double Team” the year before) remains his last to date, as he was so dispirited by the experience he resumed making movies in Hong Kong. A career low for
“LUTHER THE GEEK” (Troma Films/MVD Entertainment Group): The feature directorial debut of Carlton J. Albright (who also wrote the screenplay under the pseudonym “Whitey Styles”), this low-rent 1989 shocker stars Edward Terry (in his final feature to date) as “The Freak” (the film’s original title), a demented misfit whose childhood obsession with carnival freak shows has rendered him a cannibalistic psychopath who escapes incarceration and goes on a killing spree in a small town. Pretty tacky, although Stacey Haiduk (in an early screen role) is a knockout, and the gratuitous shower scene doesn’t hurt. This does have its fans, and they’re welcome to it. The “Tromatic special edition” Blu-ray ($19.95 retail) includes audio commentary, retrospective and vintage interviews, and more. !
“Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die,” producer/ director Gore Verbinski’s first feature in nearly a decade, is a bold, brash grab bag stu ed with neat ideas, some of which have been done before and some done better, but for those willing to go along with it — admittedly a tall order — it’s a bumpy but fun ride through a sci-fi landscape rooted in current reality, albeit with a consistently eccentric and irreverent tone.
Filmed in Cape Town but set in Los Angeles, the narrative opens in Norm’s Diner, where the late-night customers are unexpectedly accosted by Sam Rockwell’s unnamed stranger, who announces he’s from the future and has visited this very night 117 times. He’s on a mission to save humanity from itself and rounds up a reluctant band of “recruits” to aid in his task — including Ingrid (Haley Lu Richardson), Susan (Juno Temple), Mark (Michael Pena), Scott (Asim Chaudhry), Bob (Daniel Barnett), and Marie (Georgia Goodman).
Once again, it appears that mankind’s dependence on technology has caused a global catastrophe, and although the very future of humankind is at stake, the film maintains a bouncy, jaunty attitude throughout, with Rockwell acting as something of a ringmaster. He rattles o exposition and technical jargon in rapidfire fashion and with a straight face, which is quite an accomplishment. At a time when AI dominates the headlines — both literally and figuratively — it can justifiably be said that “Good Lick, Have Fun, Don’t Die” is a cautionary tale. Even in such a free-wheeling format, it makes its points coherently.
With the authorities closing in — and characters being killed o at regular intervals — the film indulges in vignettes
to flesh out each one of them. This occasionally interrupts the overall momentum but allows the actors to shine. Richardson is particularly appealing as Ingrid, who is allergic to cellphones and wi-fi, and Temple scores as a single mother whose son (newcomer Riccardo Drayton) was killed in a school shooting but has been successfully cloned, although he’s not the same as he used to be. That the film uses school shootings as a source of black comedy is undeniably risky and may not sit well with some viewers. The screenplay, by Executive Producer Matthew Robinson, is nothing if not audacious.
Throughout his career, whether it be the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise (he directed the first three), the lamentable “Lone Ranger” (2013), or his last film “A Cure for Wellness” (2016), Verbinski has tended to emphasize bombast and spectacle over clarity when a tighter, more concise approach might have been more successful, and so it is again here. “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die” is entertaining, but it’s also overlong.
As the film careens toward its (inevitable?) conclusion, one gets the sense that deep down it’s really a shaggy dog story, although in this case that would be an enormous, oversized kitten that suddenly appears to terrorize our heroes. That Rockwell bears a passing resemblance to Jesus is hardly a coincidence given a (not entirely unexpected) late-inning plot twist that echoes “The Terminator” (1984). Verbinski has clearly been influenced by the films of Terry Gilliam, and this is no exception. It’s far-out, flaky, and fun. “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die” is not without its flaws, but in the end, its highs far outweigh its lows. !
[WEEKLY ARTS ROUNDUP] SPIRIT GUM THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS ‘FIVE LESBIANS EATING A QUICHE’
SUBMITTED BY ARTS COUNCIL OF WINSTON-SALEM & FORSYTH COUNTY
Spirit Gum Theatre Company presents “Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche” by Andrew Hobgood and Evan Linder, running Feb. 20, 21, 27, and 28 at 8 p.m., and Feb. 22 and March 1 at 2 p.m.
It’s 1956 and The Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein are having their annual quiche breakfast. As the assembled “widows” await the announcement of the society’s prize-winning quiche, the atomic bomb sirens sound! Has the Communist threat come to pass? How will the “widows” respond as their idyllic town and lifestyle faces attacks? A tasty recipe of hysterical laughs, sexual innuendos, unsuccessful repressions, and delicious discoveries.
Spirit Gum is so excited to bring back one of our favorite scripts! We last produced “Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche” way back in 2014, when we were still
performing in the basement of what was then the Community Arts Cafe on Fourth Street. We felt like the time was right to revisit the absurdity, hilarity, and sisterhood of this story. We’re also lucky to have a director with a long history with the show; Kate CarsonGroner understudied and performed multiple roles in the original Chicago production!
“Five Lesbians Eating A Quiche” stars Teresa Prevatte (Lulie Stanwyck), Haley Motsinger (Dale Prist), Lauren Valentine (Ginny Cadbury), Carrie Barton (Vern Schultz) and Becky McLaughlin (Wren Robin), and is directed by Kate Carson-Groner.
“Its raw and magnetic dementia seems destined to attract a cult following.” — The New York Times
All performances are at the Mountcastle Forum, 251 N. Spruce St., Winston-Salem. For tickets and more information, go to www.spiritgumtheatre.com. !
GPD should promote from within (again)
BY JIM LONGWORTH
For the fourth time in the past 10 years, Greensboro is looking for a new police chief, and for the fourth time in a row, the city has hired the same company to help find a replacement. That company is Chapel Hill based Developmental Associates and their services in conducting a national talent search don’t come cheap. But here’s the rub. Every time Greensboro calls on Developmental Associates to search far and wide for a new police chief, the city ends up tapping someone from within the GPD’s own ranks to lead the department. Wayne Scott was chosen for the top spot in 2015, Brian James in 2020, and John Thompson in 2022, and all three were long-time GPD veterans. I happen to have agreed with those hiring decisions, but we didn’t need to pay a search firm to tell us what we already knew. So here we go again. Chief John Thompson is retiring, and Developmental Associates is going to collect a huge fee for conducting a national search for his successor. That would be OK with me if Thompson had fostered an atmosphere of corruption or discontent within the GPD, necessitating that the city seek new leadership from the outside. But Thompson has been an exemplary chief who nurtured e ective leadership skills in those under his command, including Stephanie Mardis.
Fla., and my mom was a nurse at the Hillsborough County jail. I originally wanted to pursue a career in medicine, so I was a biology/chemistry major at Bennett College. I think the foundation of growing up in a family of public servants was a good role model, so I knew I wanted to do something impactful once I graduated. That’s when I decided to apply to the Greensboro Police Department, and I’ve been here since 2002.
JL: Not long ago we went through civil unrest following the George Floyd tragedy, and police departments across the country saw a decline in folks wanting to go into law enforcement. How are things now?
SM: We have made progress with our recruiting and retention. We recently had 36 recruits attend our academy, and of those 36, 27% were female.
JL: Is that related to the “30 by 30” pledge?
SM: Yes. Law enforcement agencies across the nation are striving to have 30% of their force comprised of women by the year 2030. Right now, the Greensboro Police Department is above the national average, which is 12% female. We’re already at 20%.
JL: Why is that initiative so important?
Mardis joined the GPD 24 years ago and was promoted to assistant chief in 2023. I first met Stephanie when she appeared on my “Triad Today” show back in March 2024, and it only took me a few minutes to realize that she would one day make a fine chief of police. What follows are excerpts from our conversation. JL: Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement?
SM: My father was one of the first African American police o cers in Tampa,
SM: Representation matters in every aspect of society, and it shows progress when you have a law enforcement agency that is a reflection of the community it serves. Greensboro is a vibrant culture with rich history, so it fosters trust and partnership when we have a police department that actually reflects the population.
As I said, Stephanie Mardis will make a great chief of police someday. As far as I’m concerned, that day has come. !
JIM LONGWORTH is the h ost of “Triad Today,” air ing on Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. on ABC45 (cable channel 7) and Sundays at 11 a.m. on WMYV (cable channel 15).
Uke Sensation Feng E at Muddy Creek Cafe in Old Salem 2.13.26 | Winston-Salem |
Photos by Natalie Garcia
Stephanie Mardis
Non-disparagement clause of settlement agreement
Settlement agreements attempt to silence The District’s former tenants
On Feb. 5, former tenants of the condemned Greensboro apartment complex, The District, received emails stating that refunds for their deposits and rent were available at the leasing o ce. Upon arrival, they were given a settlement agreement to sign.
The agreement forbids “any critical, negative, derogatory, or disparaging remarks” about the building or its management to the press, as well as “any complaint to an agency.” If such complaint or statement has already been made, “it shall immediately be retracted by the o ending Party.”
On Feb. 11, WFMY News 2 reported
that, according to an unidentified representative of Pfalzgraf Communities, the company that owns The District at 830 W. Market St., the agreements were “optional,” and it was not necessary to sign one to receive a refund. But according to former tenant Crystal Sharpe, Pfalzgraf representatives initially told her and others that no refunds would be issued to anyone who did not sign the agreement.
“When I went by the o ce, there were three people working. The lady handed me the paperwork and said I needed to read and sign it. There was a second person at the table for any questions, and a third guy who was telling everyone they had to sign the paper.”
Sharpe also sent a video she recorded of her conversation with a Pfalzgraf representative, who can be heard saying, “Once you sign this, you can get your check.” According to Sharpe, she refused to sign and demanded her refund.
“He said, well, it’s just to cover yourself. After I said I’d take my chances, he handed over my check, but a lot of
people did sign because they didn’t know they had an option.”
On Feb. 12, Assistant City Manager Ti any Oliva emailed YES! Weekly that the city has scheduled an administrative hearing on Tuesday, Feb. 17, for code violations at the condemned property. According to Oliva, neither the press nor public can attend that hearing, which will not be live-streamed or posted to the city website.
“The Code Enforcement administrative (sta ) hearing that’s scheduled for Tuesday morning (the 17th) is not open to the public/media because it reflects a lead inspector performing an administrative (sta ) function and does not represent a publicly-noticed meeting of a public body. However, after the sta hearing, the case will be brought forward to the Minimum Housing Standards Commission (MHSC) to consider the facts and decision of the administrative (sta ) o cer. MHSC meetings are dulynoticed meetings of a public body and therefore would be open for attendance by the public and media.”
She also stated an additional administrative hearing with the Chief Building Inspector may also be held in the near future.
“The hearing(s) are the point in time in which Order(s) to Repair/Demolish may be issued.”
The District was condemned on Dec. 16 after fire inspectors discovered sparking and smoking electrical outlets and wiring. Approximately 180 residents were ordered to vacate the premises, becoming homeless a week before Christmas. Originally a Hilton Hotel where Elvis once stayed, the 10-story 239-unit building at 830 W. Market St. has been commercially owned o -campus student housing for decades. Tenants have also included non-students, despite the property being zoned as a dormitory. It was purchased in 2017 by Todd Pfalzgraf, CEO of the Charlotte-based LLC Pfalzgraf Communities. Pfalzgraf also owns two Charlotte apartment complexes, Sailboat Bay and Ashby Point. After
purchasing the District for $4.55 million, Pfalzgraf told Triad Business Journal that he intended extensive renovations. Tenants say those renovations never happened.
According to Greensboro Strategic and Crisis Communications Manager Eric Chilton, the city inspected The District on Nov. 19 as part of its annual process. “That inspection did not raise red flags, as there was nothing out of the ordinary for a building of that size.”
Twenty-seven days later, code inspectors and the fire department found serious violations and hazards, including smoking and sparking wiring, broken and leaking plumbing, flooding, and units without power. Within hours, the building was condemned, and residents ordered to immediately evacuate.
Records show the property has a history of code violations over the past decade, including open cases in 2025 involving plumbing and exterior safety issues. There are also multiple failed or expired permits for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. City o cials have stated that code violations are tracked separately from permit issues, and that some work may have been done without required permits and by unlicensed contractors.
Sharpe and other former tenants have described The District as “filled with black mold,” of which Sharpe sent photos.
Public records show that, on Dec. 23, open-government activist George Hartzman sent Assistant City Manager Andrea Harrell and Chief of Code Compliance Larry Roberts an email that stated, “I hear there’s black mold all over The District.”
“We do not address mold,” replied
Roberts. “That falls under Guilford County Health.”
According to former Minimum Housing Standards Commissioner Tracy Furman, that statement is incorrect.
“No, we follow international minimum housing standards. Mold is a big one. There was a unit filled with mold that we had the inspector on about two years ago.”
Code compliance records show that, in Feb. 2025, inspector Valerie Sarver instructed landlord Srinivas Potluri to “have mold test conducted and provide report with lab results” for a residence at New Garden Place Apartments, Potluri’s 76-unit complex at 1912 Phillips Avenue.
YES! Weekly asked Roberts about the apparent contradiction between his statement to Hartzman and Sarver’s correspondence with Potluri.
On Feb. 8, Roberts emailed the following reply:
“While there is no specific North Carolina code or ordinance that directly addresses mold, we do help tenants with moisture-related concerns by looking into the underlying causes of mold. This may include issues such as plumbing problems, leaks, inadequate ventilation, or windows and doors that are not properly sealed. In general, landlords are responsible for maintaining rental properties in habitable condition. That would be the reasoning behind Inspector Sarver’s email to a named landlord.”
Of Furman’s statement that the Greensboro Minimum Housing Standards Commission (MHSC) has upheld code violations against properties with black mold, Robert’s wrote, “This practice is also explained to Housing Commissioners during their annual training.”
The next MHSC meeting is on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 5:30 p.m. in the Melvin Municipal O ce Building at 300 West Washington St. According to Oliva, the public hearing on code violations at The District that will address the findings of the closed one on Feb. 17 is not on the agenda, but will be conducted at a future date.
Meanwhile, Pfalzgraf Communities
still advertises apartments as available at their condemned property for “$915 $865 for limited time only!” via an “Apply Now” button at www.districtatwestmarket.com. !
IAN MCDOWELL is an award-winning author and journalist whose book “I Ain’t Resisting: the City of Greensboro and the Killing of Marcus Smith” was published in September of 2023 by Scuppernong Editions.
Beyond Amazing VISIT: HighPointTheatre.com for more information FOR TICKETS CALL: 336-887-3001
NOCHE FLAMENCA: Searching for Goya
THURSDAY MARCH 5 @ 7:30PM
Searching for Goya consists of approximately 10-12 vignettes inspired by Francisco de Goya’s paintings, featuring original music, wardrobe and lighting design as well as original mask design by world-renowned artist Mary Frank. Director Martin Santangelo has brought to life the extraordinary art through the language of flamenco, featuring a company of dancers, singers, and musicians whose mastery of flamenco stretches the boundaries of the art form.
50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON
Piff the Magic Dragon April 18, 2026
Kandace Springs May 2, 2026
Photo of interior damage provided by Crystal Sharpe
Photo of black mold provided by Crystal Sharpe
Chow Down with John Batchelor: Weekend Woes
Ihave seen restaurants close in the past — I’ve been writing about area restaurants for over 40 years. But I have never seen five closings in the same week. Most of the attention has been directed toward downtown, but we have to add two others, including the K&W Cafeteria near Friendly Shopping Center. Seven in a short time.
None of the factors — price, parking, or safety — that have been reported kept me away from any restaurant that I wanted to visit. So rather than repeat what others have said, I contacted restaurants — among my favorites — and asked for their perspective.
Tom and Mary Speaker, chef/host/ proprietors of Salvino (salvinorestaurant.com), initiated this discussion. They cite these obstacles: the last two Saturdays in January took a heavy toll; slower weekdays; supplier price increases and tari s cutting margins even closer; demand for higher wages. They
have improved opportunities through marketing e orts with social media plus emails highlighting menu features, new wines, and special events; looking for other revenue-producing avenues; and, reluctantly, increasing prices. They close — “While it saddened us to hear of all the closings for fellow independent restaurants, it seemed to help generate an increased outpouring of support for locally owned operations.”
With regard to improving weeknight revenue, Tad Engstrom of MJ’s (mjs620.com) points to their wine dinners. These are always held on weeknights, often once a month. But there’s more to it: “It has been a tough year, definitely with the weather and the economy. I did open up for Feb. 15 to try to get an extra day of income — hopefully that works out since it’s Valentine’s Day weekend. Fortunately, we have some catering that helps get us through tough times.”
Tal Blevins of MACHETE (machet-
egso.com) points out, “The restaurant business runs on razor-thin margins. Many restaurants run a deficit on weekdays, so weekends make the difference. When bad weather hits on the weekends, especially on back-to-back Saturdays, it’s devastating, not only to the business itself, but to our employees. In slower months like January, many restaurants don’t see profit until the final weekend of the month. We often run weekday specials and o er an early evening discounted three-course pre-theater menu. Our bi-monthly wine dinners are usually scheduled on Wednesdays and Thursdays. We also encourage people to book large parties or corporate events during the week and o er a discount over what we would normally charge on the weekends for a total room buyout.”
Juan Cirino of Pangaea (pangaeabistro.com) considers this “an important conversation for our community. Weeknight tra c has definitely been
Cafe Pasta — Almond Crusted Salmon
1703 — Sea Bass
Downtown Grille — Scallops Mozelle’s — Meat Loaf
Blue Denim — Gumbo YaYa
Reel Seafood Grill — Black and Blue Tuna Salad
Betty on Burke — Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Duck Pangea — Bacon Appetizer Machete — Wagyu Beef
Salvino — Cotoletta Di Vitello Sorrentino
inconsistent, especially during periods of severe weather or when broader economic pressures a ect discretionary spending. For many independent restaurants, even a few slow nights in a row can have an outsized impact because our fixed costs don’t slow down when foot tra c does. During recent weather events, we’ve operated with a very lean team — often just two of us, with me personally working the kitchen. On snow days, instead of closing or pushing promotions, we o ered free delivery as a way to support the community and keep access to food available. Beyond sit-down dining, we supplement revenue through catering, special dinners, and collaborative events, which help stabilize the business during slower periods and allow us to keep our sta working. Running a restaurant has always required resilience, but the last few years have demanded adaptability, creativity, and a deeper connection with the community. We’re grateful for the guests who continue to support local businesses, especially during challenging conditions.”
Jody Morphis of Blue Denim (bluedenimgso.com) reports that they have seen a decline in sales and revenue that primarily began in the late fall of 2024. “We are in the process of launching our 20th annual ‘Throw Me Somethin’ Mister’ Mardi Gras menu [now through Saturday, Feb. 21] and usually see an uptick in guest reservations related to that. When there are popular shows at the Tanger Center, we see a significant increase. Over the past few months, we were o ering gumbo specials and other take-away specials to celebrate our 10th anniversary, and as a way to generate extra revenue. We are in the planning stages with several other restaurants downtown to begin o ering boxed items via a subscriptionbased service. This is being led by Kathryn Hubert of Chez Genese (chezgenese.com).
Ray Essa, at Café Pasta (cafepasta. com), presides over one of the longestrunning restaurant enterprises in the Triad — 42 years. He spends a lot of time contacting area companies who might want to have an event for employees. “If they don’t come to us, we’ll go to them.” Catering, especially during COVID, enabled the restaurant to sustain itself. Social media has become essential. He had the waitsta teach him how to reach out to a younger audience, using Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, where he posts specials
every day. “We don’t have a freezer, so we have to keep everything fresh.” That requires reasonably predictable patronage. He also arranges wine dinners, beer tastings, and even a chocolate tasting in collaboration with neighbor Rhyme and Reason (rhymeandreasonchocolate.com), where chocolatier Elizabeth Tully creates artisan delights.
The perspective from Winston-Salem is similar.
Jennifer Smith and Jay Pierce, who operate Mozelle’s (mozelles.com) and Betty on Burke (bettyonburke. com) remarked, “This recent spate of winter weather is extremely stressful. It is occurring at a time that is historically slow. People are recovering from the holidays, altering their diets because of New Year’s resolutions or just changing habits. Navigating road closures and environmental obstacles is di cult because you want to serve both the community and your employees the best way possible. That entails keeping them safe, but also making sure their paycheck is reliable. Then you must navigate the period of doing everything to get back open and get people back into a routine. Dealing with food waste is heartbreaking, [especially] considering the vendors we rely on — small businesses and farmers who have food that will spoil if it is not sold. This winter weather comes at a time of economic uncertainty for the whole nation. People are conflicted about whether they should be supporting their local favorites, saving their money, or trading down. Other than the beautiful snow and the peacefulness of it, there’s very little benefit to winter weather.”
Joe and Molly Curran of 1703 (1703restaurant.com) don’t like winter, either. “January is typically slow, but this year was extraordinary. We lost two weekends of revenue due to the snow and ice. We modify our menu daily based on what is available locally and at a good price. Anticipating bad weather, we ordered minimal food to keep costs low. Since we primarily work o reservations, we can sta accordingly, keeping a minimal crew in the kitchen and on the floor. We also communicate with our regulars daily through an email list, providing the nightly menu and any updates regarding weather-related closures. We also provide bulk “takeaways” for our guests to pre-order and keep in their refrigerator or freezer. We also encourage people to purchase wines to take home, as well as gift certificates for future use.
Catering is generally slow after the holidays, so we use this time to plan for future events. We always encourage neighborhood and family gatherings during January so people avoid holiday stress and can truly enjoy each other’s company.”
I will close with a few observations of my own, from the point of view of a customer. In real estate school, I was taught that building a business hinges primarily on two factors. First, establishing and sustaining relationships. With regard to restaurants, communication is key. There ought to be a “Contact Us” link on the website or a phone number, and if a customer leaves a message, somebody ought to reply. (The majority of messages I leave get no response.) Second, consider the maxim, “There is no problem that price will not fix.” All of the places I talked to mentioned weeknight specials, and I think successful restaurants everywhere provide incentives on nights that are likely to be slow. Again, communicating those incentives is essential. Specials not posted on a website might as well not exist. I’m not talking about o -menu food specials, although I
would welcome that information, too. I’m talking about something that draws people in. Consider one example that I find exemplary: Downtown Grille (downtowngrille.com). Go to the website, click on Menu, then Specials. They have a “Daily Deal” every day, and they are posted.
So — My advice for customers — please go out to eat on a weeknight. The crowd will be smaller, you will get better attention, and you will be helping the restaurant. Or get takeout on a weeknight. For restaurants — communicate more e ectively and try to find ways to make customers build a relationship with the restaurant. Usually, that’s a function of personnel and personality in addition to procedures. !
JOHN BATCHELOR has been writing about eating and drinking since 1981. Over a thousand of his articles have been published. He is also author of two travel/cookbooks: “ Chefs of the Coast: Restaurants and Recipes from the North Carolina Coast,” and “ Chefs of the Mountains: Restaurants and Recipes from Western North Carolina.” Contact him at john.e.batchelor@gmail.com or see his blog, johnbatchelordiningandtravel.blogspot.com.
The Sportscenter Athletic Club is a private membership club dedicated to providing the ultimate athletic and recreational facilities for our members of all ages. Conveniently located in High Point, we provide a wide variety of activities for our members. We’re designed to incorporate the total fitness concept for maximum benefits and total enjoyment. We cordially invite all of you to be a part of our athletic facility, while enjoying the membership savings we offer our established corporate accounts.
PBS’ ‘Independent Lens’ launches 20th season of pop-up screening series in Winston-Salem and nationwide
The award-winning PBS documentary series, “Independent Lens,” has announced the launch of the upcoming season of Indie Lens Pop-Up. The long-running community screening series celebrates its twentieth season, which has brought together nearly half a million people for conversations inspired by thought-provoking documentaries. This season, the screening series will feature both in-person and virtual events in more than 200 communities across nearly all 50 states.
Indie Lens Pop-Up will engage communities on a range of topics, from the debate over book collections in libraries and the legacy of a groundbreaking Congresswoman, to representation within the little people community and exploring world cultures through the local grocery store. These community events empower audiences to deepen their understanding of themselves and each other.
These documentaries also premiere on “Independent Lens,” PBS’ award-winning documentary anthology series, and stream on the PBS app and YouTube.
The 2026 Indie Lens Pop-Up lineup includes the following documentaries:
Librarians across the U.S. examine how book review policies are shaping their communities in “The Librarians.”
“The Inquisitor” highlights the legacy of Barbara Jordan, unraveling how her public influence shaped U.S. politics, while exploring the complexities of her personal identity.
Filmmaker Julie Wyman searches to find her place within the Little People community, exploring dwarfism within her own family and the diverse experiences of other little people in her film “The Tallest Dwarf.” “The Grocery List Show” takes viewers to five bustling international grocery stores in America with “Top Chef” contender Chrissy Camba.
“What makes ‘Independent Lens’ truly special is the way Indie Lens Pop-Up brings these powerful documentaries right into local communities all across the country,” said Beatriz Castillo, senior director of engagement and impact operations at ITVS. “These aren’t just film screenings — they’re opportunities for people to come together, have real conversations, and explore di erent perspectives in a way that’s respectful and inclusive. More and more, communities are craving spaces where they can connect, learn from one another, and talk about the issues that matter. Indie Lens Pop-Up helps make that possible.”
“The Inquisitor”
“RiverRun is proud to launch another wonderful season of Indie Lens Pop-Up,” said Michael Morin, RiverRun’s executive director. “These films empower our community to come together and talk about topics that might be otherwise di cult to discuss with one another. With this continued partnership, we’re not only able to watch films from the award-winning ‘Independent Lens’ series, but we also create open, safe forums to talk about important issues a ecting our neighborhoods today, hopefully providing useful resources for those who need them.”
Below is more info on the Indie Lens Pop-Up 2026 lineup.
“The Inquisitor ” directed by Angela Tucker March 5 - Forsyth Central Library at 6 p.m.
Explore the life and legacy of Barbara Jordan in “The Inquisitor.” Jordan was a groundbreaking Texas congresswoman whose sharp intellect and moral clarity transformed U.S. politics. From Nixon’s impeachment to civil rights battles, her voice demanded accountability, while she privately faced struggles few ever knew of.
“The Tallest Dwarf” directed by Julie Wyman March 26 - Forsyth Central Library at 6 p.m.
“The Tallest Dwarf “follows filmmaker Julie Wyman as she searches for her place in the little people community and unpacks dwarfism’s impact on her own family. Through intimate stories, creative collaborations, and archival history, the film delves into identity and medicine, asking whether society should change people or the structures that limit them.
“The Librarians” directed by Kim A. Snyder April 19 - Screening during 2026 festival, TBD April 21 - High Point Library at 5:30 p.m. When Texas lawmakers seek to review a list of books, librarians find themselves on the frontlines of a national battle. Across the U.S., librarians face the impact of uniting against library collection standards that include restrictions on race-related and LGBTQIA+ content. Drawing on historical context, “The Librarians” explores the broader implications for education and public life.
“The Grocery List Show” directed by Emily Strong May 14 - Forsyth Central Library at 6 p.m. Hosted by “Top Chef” contender Chrissy Camba, “The Grocery List Show” is a trip to five bustling international grocery stores in America and the communities they serve. Special guests and food enthusiasts join Chrissy to shop for ingredients and cook a favorite family recipe, as they celebrate global food traditions over a shared meal. !
For more than 20 years, the award-winning INDIE LENS POP-UP program has partnered with local organizations across the country to bring people together for film screenings and community-driven conversations. Inspired by the documentaries featured on PBS’ “Independent Lens,” Indie Lens Pop-Up is a space for sharing ideas and making connections that shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Since its inception in 2005, nearly half a million participants have come together at Indie Lens Pop-Up events to discuss issues that impact local communities. Learn more at pbs.org/ indielenspopup.
“INDEPENDENT LENS” is an award-winning documentary series that fosters understanding, seeks to build empathy, and encourages a more united society. Produced by ITVS, “Independent Lens” documentaries have premiered on PBS for 25 years and streamed on YouTube, helping Americans foster deeper connections between communities and themselves. From the Oscarnominated “I Am Not Your Negro” to the Peabody-acclaimed docuseries “Philly D.A.” and the Emmy award-winning “The Invisible War,” “Independent Lens” provides viewers with in-depth, nuanced storytelling reflecting the experiences of people from a variety of voices and communities. “Independent Lens” is funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting: a private corporation funded by the American People, the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the Ford Foundation, Acton Family Giving, Park Foundation, and Wyncote Foundation. Stream anytime on the PBS app or YouTube. Learn more at pbs.org/independentlens.
RIVERRUN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL is a nonprofit media arts organization dedicated to the role of cinema as a conduit for powerful ideas and diverse viewpoints. Founded in 1998, RiverRun is a competitive event that annually showcases new films from established and emerging filmmakers around the world. Each spring, RiverRun screens new narrative, documentary, short, student, and animated films, o ering both audience and jury prizes in competition categories. For more information, visit riverrunfilm.com
PRESS RELEASE
Spa o ers di erent ways to relaxation, health and beauty
BY NORMA B. DENNIS | ndworddesign@gmail.com
Several weeks ago Joyce Darr, owner of Primrose Esthetics in Jamestown, hosted a junk journaling class at her business. Although the activity seems to be experiencing a revival in the craft world, Darr noted she has enjoyed junk journaling since high school.
“I was doing it before there was a name for it,” Darr said.
Junk journaling involves crafting handmade or embellished books that incorporate a variety of mixed-media art. They are often created from recycled or upcycled materials. The books are used as a creative outlet, and in turn can be used for saving memorabilia, planners, photo albums, journaling about special events or whatever one’s mind can conceive.
“We plan to make junk journaling into a girls night out on the third Wednesday of each month,” Darr said. “You bring the ‘junk’ and I will supply glue, stickers, charms, etc. We might add card making or other paper crafts as interest grows.”
There is a nominal charge for the activity.
While not really part of her business, the relaxation of crafting could almost be an extension of it. Primrose Esthetics is a spa experience featuring facials, reflexology and cryotherapy. Darr opened her business in Jamestown in January of 2025.
“I owned a day spa, The Skin Care Center, in Greensboro for 20 years,” Darr said. “I am certified in oncology skin care and approximately 99 percent of my clients were oncology patients. During COVID I struggled to keep the business open and finally had to close it.”
Darr has rebuilt her business locally, focusing on having the latest technology. It is more than lotions and potions, she says.
“I am a huge proponent of learning and truly want to know what works for skin care and more.”
Her reflexology therapy involves foot massages. Applying di erent amounts of pressure to specific points in the feet promotes pain and stress relief and other health benefits. Once called zone therapy in the early 1900s, science today
recognizes how di erent nerve endings in the feet are connected to certain organs and body systems. Stimulating these nerve endings can enhance circulation, release toxins and promote natural healing.
Cryotherapy is localized cold therapy good for many issues such as injuries, skin care, anti-aging facials, plantar fasciitis and arthritis.
“It lowers the body temperature to create a healing e ect,” Darr explained. “I also use red-light therapy that works with cryotherapy.”
Darr lives in the Jamestown area and when considering the idea of reopening her business wanted to be closer to home.
“I like Jamestown and Susan Stringer [owner of The Soap Lady] encouraged
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Joyce Darr brings her years of proficiency as an esthetician and her care for community to Jamestown. Primrose Esthetics o ers a spa experience featuring facials, reflexology and cryotherapy.
me to open here,” Darr said. “I prayed about it and everything just fell into place.
“Everything is customized to the individual. Before I do anything, I discuss what the client sees as her needs and what I see and we work together to get the benefits she is looking for. I do not do cookie-cutter facials.”
Darr recently began selling Permalinx Jewelry – necklaces, bracelets and anklets that are placed on the body without clasps and will stay on for sixeight months.
Darr is excited about her location at 100-B E. Main Street and looks forward to continually exploring new opportunities to meet people. She is available by appointment at 336-273-3545 or on her website PrimroseEsthetics.com. !
Assistant Professor of Economics
Winston-Salem, NC (multiple positions) — Teach undergraduate courses across a range of macroeconomics topics. Reqs. incl. PhD in Econ. or related, & demonstrated study, scholarship & teaching in Macroeconomics.
Send CV to Wake Forest Univ., 1834 Wake Forest Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27109, Attn: N. Lynch.
GROWN MUSIC SCENE | Compiled by Shane Hart
CHARLOTTE
THE
FILLMORE
1000 NC Music Factory Blvd | 704.916.8970
www.livenation.com
Feb 18: Monaleo
Feb 19: Redveil
Feb 20: Zarna Garg
Feb 20: Joey Valence & Brae
DURHAM
CAROLINA THEATRE
309 W Morgan St | 919.560.3030
www.carolinatheatre.org
Feb 19: Drew and Ellie Holcomb
Fe 24: Keb’ Mo’
Feb 26: Chris Botti
GREENSBORO
COMEDY ZONE
1126 S Holden Rd | 336.333.1034
www.thecomedyzone.com
Feb 18: Carolanne Miljavac
Feb 19: Peter Antoniou
Feb 20-22: Chad Prather
FLAT IRON
221 Summit Ave | 336.501.3967
www.flatirongso.com
Feb 18: Laurelyn Dossett
Feb 19: Deaf Andrews w/ The Barons
Feb 20: Moonroof, Transeunte Errante, Grace Lucia, Liam Martin
HANGAR 1819
1819 Spring Garden St | 336.579.6480 www.hangar1819.com
Feb 20: Resistor & Yosemite Black
Feb 21: Fake Happy — A Tribute to Paramore w/ 2nd Tody, 30 Is Dead, Get Back!
Feb 23: Foxy Shazam
STEVEN TANGER CENTER
300 N Elm Street | 336.333.6500 www.tangercenter.com
Feb 21: Cash Bash 2026 with Redd Volkaert & the bo-stevens
Feb 19: Michael Chaney
Feb 21: Anna Mertson & James Vincent Carroll
[SALOME’S STARS]
Week of February 22, 2026
[ARIES (March 21 to April 19) There could be some negative reaction to your tough stance when making a recent decision. But overall, your e orts result in well-earned recognition and all that can follow from this.
[TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Your financial situation seems confusing, even for the fiscally savvy Bovine. Maybe it’s the conflicting advice that you’re getting. Check it out before things get too tangled to unknot.
[GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A relaxed attitude goes a long way in helping you deal with any of life’s irritants that might be popping up this week. You’re also a reassuring role model for others in the same situation.
[CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Your aspect favors creativity, which should persuade you to work on your artistic projects. If time is a problem, prioritize your commitments so that your work isn’t compromised.
[LEO (July 23 to August 22) Scrutinize all the job o ers that interest you. Most are honest and worth considering, but a few might not be completely forthcoming about what the job is and what the salary and benefits are.
[VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) An unexpected snafu could delay the completion of a project that you’re eager to finish. Find out what’s causing it, fix it, and if you need help, don’t be shy about asking for it. Good luck!
[LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) An idea that could be helpful to you comes from an unlikely source. Listen to it. Discuss it. If necessary, adjust it. If it looks as if it might
work out quite well, go ahead and use it.
[SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Be careful about allowing someone to share a very personal secret with you. This could cause problems down the line with others who are involved in this person’s private life.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A cooling down of a relationship could be the result of neglect — unintended or not. To save it from icing over, you need to warm it up with a large dose of hot SAGITTARIUS passion!
[CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) This is a good time to get involved with a number of family matters that deal with money or other issues that might jeopardize the closeness between and among family members.
[AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Cheer up! A di cult person who appears to be deliberately stalling your project might just need to be reassured of the value that they bring to it.
[PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Good news! Expect to feel reenergized now that you’ve gone through a stressful energy-depleting period that involved a lot of changes. Now, go out there and show them what you can do!
[BORN THIS WEEK: You have a warm, giving nature that inspires many to follow your example. You show all of us what it’s like to lead with love.
