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JULY 16-22, 2025
VOLUME 21, NUMBER 28
3
The University Press of Kentucky continues its winning streak of CELEBRITY BIOGRAPHIES with David M. Stewart’s “There’s No Going Back: The Life and Work of Jonathan Demme” and Christopher McKittrick’s “Vera Miles: The Hitchcock Blonde Who Got Away.”
4 Whether intentional or not, whether racist or not, Trump’s total LACK OF KNOWLEDGE is having a devastating effect on our daily lives here at home and on our image abroad.
5 Although it tries to balance substance with style, it’s the latter aspect that wins out in DANIELA FOREVER, the latest outing for writer/producer/director Nacho Vigalondo.
7 Beware. From the exterior, THE CARRIAGE HOUSE looks rather nondescript. But there’s a really good restaurant lurking inside, in operation since 1969, phenomenal longevity in the restaurant business.
8 NBA Superstar CHRIS PAUL is used to leading Championship winning teams, but now he’s leading the charge to have healthy, flavorful snacks in your kitchen.
11 Recent weeks have presented the CITY OF GREENSBORO with issues involving the State Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Justice.
12 Cicadas and fireflies fill the thick summer air, as July melts on by with a full plate of MUSIC OFFERINGS and festival gatherings.
Literary takes on legendary talents
The University Press of Kentucky (https://www. kentuckypress. com/) continues its winning streak of celebrity biographies with David M. Stewart’s “There’s No Going Back: The Life and Work of Jonathan Demme” (280 pages, $29.95 retail) — which will be released July 29— and Christopher McKittrick’s “Vera Miles: The Hitchcock Blonde Who Got Away” (312 pages, $29.95 retail). Perhaps surprisingly, each volume marks the first biography devoted to each subject, and if not necessarily definitive, both are extremely well-researched and undeniably respectful of the accomplishments of both artists.
For some, Jonathan Demme (1944-2017) will best be known for his masterful 1991 screen adaptation of The Silence of the Lambs, because it was his biggest hit and won five Academy Awards, including one for Best Director. But Demme, a graduate of Roger Corman’s New World Pictures (Caged Heat), was a filmmaker of vast and diverse interests. His studio films (Melvin and Howard, Something Wild, Married to the Mob) were entertainingly quirky and o beat, and his non-fiction films (Stop Making Sense, Swimming to Cambodia) expanded the parameters of documentary filmmaking.
In addition, Demme utilized his talents — and his cache as a successful director — to make more personal films that reflected his political and humanitarian interests (Haiti Dreams of Democracy, Cousin Bobby, The Agronomist). He was also a mentor to younger filmmakers, a tireless proponent of human rights, and was lauded for his perennially upbeat personality, all of which are referred to time and again in Stewart’s entertaining book, which could have gone into more depth regarding some subjects — why he turned down directing Hannibal (2001), for example — but doesn’t su er as a result. It’s a must for devotees of Demme, whose death at age 73 was keenly felt by all who knew him and robbed us of a singular filmmaking talent.
“Vera Miles” is a terrific biography of a terrific actress — and long overdue. Of the three absolute classics Miles co-starred in — The Searchers (1956), Psycho (1960), and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962) — her work was overshadowed by her co-stars: John Wayne in the first, Janet Leigh in the second, and James Stewart and Wayne in the third. Yet one would be hard-pressed to name a bad performance she ever gave. A bad film, perhaps, but never a bad performance. McKittrick places
her films in their proper (classic) context, while also conveying Miles’s other credits — and her personal life — in absorbing, sympathetic fashion.
Miles never cared for interviews, studio-mandated or otherwise, and has resisted all interview requests since retiring (o cially in 1995) and never expressed any interest in writing a memoir. Reportedly, she still answers fan mail, but beyond that, she’s a lady in retirement, away from the limelight, and undoubtedly happy to be so. Therefore, this biography is likely as good as we’ll get, and it’s very good indeed.
The self-explanatory “Gehring Beside Himself: More Selected Essays” (312 pages, $26 retail) is the 43(!) book by the prolific author and the second collection of his essays, encompassing a wide variety of topics. Whether it’s a specific individual (Charlie Chaplin, George Clooney, Jerry Seinfeld, Red Skelton) or a specific film (The Third Man, Jezebel, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), Gehring
has an uncanny knack for finding something not immediately discernible and making a cogent and valid observation of it.
Even better, Gehring’s writing is never haughty or condescending. He has a relaxed, albeit informed, conversational style that makes these essays eminently readable and, at their best, even revelatory. This critic has seen The Third Man (1949) countless times — and considers it one of his favorite thrillers — but Gehring o ers fresh insights and observations heretofore unconsidered. A frequent result of reading Gehring is the immediate desire to revisit the film he’s writing about. In addition, his admiration and a ection for his subjects is plainly evident throughout. Reading Gehring is never a chore. It’s always fun — and informative. (The o cial BearManor Media website is https://www.bearmanormedia.com/.)
Tackling an altogether di erent topic, although with just as much enthusiasm and knowledge, is Martin Popo , the author of “Hallowed By Their Name: The Uno cial Iron Maiden Bible” (672 pages, $250 retail), a self-explanatory and limited-edition chronicle of the Grammy-winning heavy metal band, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. It’s everything you ever wanted to know about Iron Maiden — and then some. Popo , a lifelong devotee of heavy metal, has written about Iron Maiden before (2018’s “Iron Maiden: Album by Album”), as well as Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and AC/DC, so his credentials as an authority on the subject are without dispute. Through a series of thorough interviews with band members and those in (or formerly in) their orbit, Popo persuasively details Iron Maiden’s formation in 1975 East London, the band’s rise to success (first domestically, then internationally), various contretemps and controversies that have dogged the band over the years — including considerable and seemingly endless condemnation for supposedly “evil” and/or Satanic lyrics — which, in typical fashion, simply brought the band more notoriety and publicity.
Yes, “Hallowed By Their Name” is a celebration and a tribute, but it doesn’t shy away from the band’s darker moments, both personally and professionally, thereby lending this a well-rounded quality that even the casual Iron Maiden devotee will appreciate for its honesty. The book, however, doesn’t wallow in the negative. At its half-century mark, Iron Maiden has released 41 albums, sold over 130 million copies, played over 25,000 shows, influenced fans and later bands alike, beat the odds, and defied the Establishment (more than once on both counts!) — and they’re still going strong. (The o cial Schi er Publishing website is https://schi erbooks. com/.) !
Mark Burger
Contributor
BY JIM LONGWORTH
On April 29, 1962, while speaking to a group of Nobel Prize winners at the White House, President John Kennedy said:
“I think this is the most extraordinary
Trump: Ignorance is Bliss
collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered together at the White House, with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone.”
The geniuses who were assembled that night got the joke and revered its meaning. That’s because we Americans
N.C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING REGARDING PROPOSED INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS ALONG N.C. 65/N.C. 68 IN STOKESDALE, GUILFORD AND ROCKINGHAM COUNTIES
STIP Project No. R-5823
STOKESDALE - The public is invited to a meeting with the N.C. Department of Transportation to discuss the proposed intersection improvements along N.C. 65/N.C. 68 from U.S. 158 to I-73/U.S. 220.
The open-house public meeting will be held July 22 at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel-Pardue Road in Stokesdale. The public is invited to attend at any time between 5-7 p.m. There will be no formal presentation.
Project details including maps can be found on the NCDOT project web page: https://publicinput.com/NC65-NC68Improvements-Guilford. This information will be available at the meeting, allowing for one-onone discussions with engineers.
People may also submit comments on the project webpage, by phone at 984-205-6615 (project code 4912), email at NC65-NC68ImprovementsGuilford@publicinput.com, or mail to the address shown below by Aug. 22
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled people who wish to participate in this meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Alecia Hardy, Environmental Analysis Unit, at 1598 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1598, 919707-6072 or ext-arhardy@ncdot.gov as early as possible so arrangements can be made.
Those who do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior by calling 1-800-481-6494.
Aquellas personas no hablan inglés, o tienen limitaciones para leer, hablar o entender inglés, podrían recibir servicios de interpretación si los solicitan llamando al 1-800-481-6494.
have always prized the fact that our presidents have possessed the intellect and character to lead our country and to be a respected leader in the world. In short, the president must have a command of knowledge about world and national events, and how history has shaped those events. Yes, Gerald Ford got flustered in a debate and misspoke about Russia’s dominance over Poland. And yes, George W. Bush had a tendency to mangle the English language. But, for the most part, we could always count on our Presidents to act, think, and speak with a sense of reason and decorum, until now that is.
From the moment he began his first term in o ce, Donald Trump has shown a total disregard for the truth and a total lack of knowledge about anything but golf. The New York Times, CNN, and other news outlets employed fact-checkers who have kept a running list of every lie Trump told which, since 2017 has exceeded 50,000. Sometimes his lies have resulted from going o script in order to brag about something he says he did (but didn’t actually do). However, most of the time he says things that are untrue because he just doesn’t know what he’s talking about.
Trump once said that it was Canadians who burned down the White House during the War of 1812. He called Belgium, “a beautiful city.” When asked what the Declaration of Independence is about, he said it was about love. He claimed that President Andrew Jackson was “really angry” about the Civil War which would have been a good trick if Jackson hadn’t died 16 years before the War started. Speaking of the Civil War, Trump said “It ended in 1869 or whatever,” and that the bloodiest battle occurred on the site of his golf course along the Potomac River. In fact, not a single battle took place on
that site. Speaking at a Black History Month luncheon, Trump indicated that Frederick Douglass was still alive. And he was surprised to learn from his sta that Lincoln was a Republican. It’s no wonder that Ron Filipowski, a former federal prosecutor, said Trump “couldn’t pass a 7th grade U.S. history exam.”
But Trump’s most recent ga e came last week while meeting with West African leaders at the White House. He praised Liberian President Joseph Boakai for speaking, “such good English.” The Liberian delegation took o ense at that remark and with good reason. Liberia was founded by Americans, their currency is the U.S. dollar, and the o cial language of Liberia is — you guessed it — ENGLISH. In addition to Trump having no knowledge of history or geo-politics, his idiotic comment to President Boakai also raised concerns among some groups that Trump is, at heart, a racist.
Afterall, it was Trump who once referred to African nations as “shit-hole countries.” And since beginning his second term as president, he has drastically cut or eliminated scores of programs designed to honor or assist African Americans, ranging from purging the names of Black leaders from federal documents, to criticizing Juneteenth, eliminating DEI initiatives on college campuses and in the workplace, and potentially throwing 13 million people o of their healthcare coverage.
Whether intentional or not, whether racist or not, Trump’s total lack of knowledge is having a devastating e ect on our daily lives here at home and on our image abroad. The sad thing is that 77 million Americans returned him to the White House last year, not caring about his lies, his crimes, or his demeanor. They are seemingly OK with having a rude, functionally illiterate man lead our country who revels in all of the things that he doesn’t know. If ignorance is bliss, then Donald Trump is the happiest man in America. By the way, the phrase “Ignorance is Bliss” originated with Thomas Gray, a poet who was born in 1716, or as Trump would say, during the Civil War. !
at 11 a.m. on WMYV (cable channel 15) and streaming on WFMY+.
JIM LONGWORTH is the host of Triad Today, airing on Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. on ABC45 (cable channel 7) and Sundays
Recapturing a lost love in Daniela Forever
BY MARK BURGER
Although it tries to balance substance with style, it’s the latter aspect that wins out in Daniela Forever, the latest outing for writer/producer/director Nacho Vigalondo, whose last feature was Colossal in 2016 and who clearly has an expansive imagination. Daniela Forever is not without its drawbacks, but the fascinating concept and spectacular visuals earmark this as a major cult contender. Henry Golding headlines as Nicolas, a strapping deejay still grieving the recent death of his girlfriend, the titular Daniela (Beatrice Granno). He is so consumed by depression that he participates in a covert experiment in which he takes a pill that allows him to dream about her at will. The term “lucid dreaming” means that he is cognizant he is dreaming and can control them at will. He hopes to recapture their relationship while he sleeps, which — naturally — will have an unforeseen impact on his waking life. Not surprisingly, Daniela Forever has drawn comparisons to Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004), but one can easily detect the influence of 2022’s Oscar-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once, because under these ethereal circumstances, absolutely anything can happen — entirely by the whims of Nicolas. Vigalondo indulges himself here, incorporating existential, romantic, and even humorous elements into the mix. There’s suspense, black comedy, addiction analogy, and even touches of commedia dell’arte. One thing’s for sure: Daniela Forever is never dull, and it’s frequently inventive. One can’t help but wonder what Vigalondo will think up next.
Yet there’s a curiously detached quality to the proceedings. Golding and Granno are an attractive screen duo, but their relationship lacks the heat and the passion that would more easily explain Nicolas’ obsession with her and his increasingly desperate attempts to revisit their relationship no matter the consequences to himself or even the world around him. What does he hope to accomplish? (Rest
assured, we eventually do find out, and the film’s very title spells it out plainly.)
There’s good work from Nathalie Poza as Victoria, the friend who cautiously recommends Nicolas undergo the dream therapy, and Aura Garrido as Daniela’s former girlfriend Teresa. That Daniela was bisexual is not commented upon, which is certainly refreshing in these often-divisive times. But the star of the show is Vigalondo himself, and he takes full advantage of the opportunity, aided considerably by Jon D. Dominguez’s spectacular cinematography and a marvelous score by the pop duo of Carlos Ballesteros and Genis Segarra, better known as Hidrogenesse. Daniela Forever is a feast for the senses, a truly visionary head trip.
The narrative, however, does get a bit tangled in the second half, almost as if the filmmakers weren’t quite sure how to wrap things up — admittedly no mean feat. A bit more focus would have pushed it over the finish line with flying colors. Nevertheless, there are some great moments along the way, more than enough to warrant a recommendation for Daniela Forever
Daniela Forever is playing in select theaters and will be available On Digital beginning July 22. !
[WEEKLY ARTS ROUNDUP] FREE ART ACTIVITIES AND PERFORMANCES IN LEWISVILLE
SUBMITTED BY ARTS COUNCIL OF WINSTON-SALEM
Arts Council of Winston-Salem & Forsyth County is hosting free art activities and free storytelling performances geared toward youth and families. All events will be held at the Mary Alice Warren Community Center in Lewisville.
Free Story Time Performances Third Saturdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• July 19, Ciltona Cawthorne
• Aug. 16, Ciltona Cawthorne
• Sept. 20, Bob Moyer
• Oct. 18, Edward Robson
• Nov. 15, Edward Robsen
• Dec. 20, R.V. Kuser
Free Family Art Pop Ins Third
Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m
(Please note attendance will be limited to 30. Advance registration is recommended.)
• July 19, Mixed Media Self Portraits with Je’wel
• Aug. 16, Sankafa and Sunflowers with Phoebe Roberts
• Sept. 20, Textured Landscape Painting with Monica Douglas
• Oct. 18, Marble Pumpkins with Issis Kelly
• Nov. 15, Mixed Media Self Portraits with Je’wel
• Dec. 20, Memory Wire Bracelets with Marlene Kuser
Free Crafts with Marlene Kuser Third Thursdays from 3 to 5 p.m. (Attendance will be limited to eight. Advance registration is recommended.)
• Sept.18, Memory Wire Bracelet
• Oct. 16, Polymer Clay Pens
• Nov. 20, Gemstone Bonsai Tree
• Dec. 18, Earring Basics
At the start of each month, a SignUp Genius form will be sent out. Participants can request attendance times. Please note that the Mary Alice Warren Community Center requires that each adult and each child must complete a Program Participant Liability Waiver, see attachments. This only needs to be signed once and will cover attendees for any class in which they participate for the rest of the year. Register and sign the liability form at www.intothearts.org/mary-alice-warren. This art programming is funded by the generous support of the Shallow Ford Foundation. Mary Alice Warren Community Center is located at 7632 Warren Park Dr, Lewisville, NC 27023. !
[WEEKLY SUDOKU]
ACROSS
Chow Down with John Batchelor at The Carriage House
BY JOHN BATCHELOR
Beware.
From the exterior, The Carriage House looks rather nondescript. But there’s a really good restaurant lurking inside, in operation since 1969, phenomenal longevity in the restaurant business. The interior is pleasantly arranged, with seating at tables or booths. This isn’t a “white tablecloth” restaurant. It’s a black cloth napkin restaurant, a feature I appreciate. The concept centers on what is best termed a family restaurant, in the sense that there is a lot of familiar cooking here, reflecting the sort of food families would eat in a few different countries, mainly southern U.S. and Italy, with a hint of Mexico thrown in with quesadillas. Beer and wine are available within limited selections — a range appropriate for the setting. Wines are inexpensive and well-chosen. There’s also a mimosa on the list.
Servers tend to be young and naturally friendly. Food comes out promptly. If you want to linger over separate courses, you might consider ordering in sequence rather than all at once. My party started one evening with Spinach and Artichoke Dip — a fairly mild preparation, exhibiting flavors from both main ingredients, baked in cheese sauce. Toasted pita wedges are provided to host. Fried Calamari is a mix of rings and baby squid, a little firm, but pleasantly crisp and tasty. The accompanying marinara sauce is really tasty — sweetish, low acid.
Off to a good start, with particular praise for value. That high-value impression was sustained throughout other courses and a subsequent visit. (Check the website menu for daily discounted specials.)
Anna ordered a Black and Blue Salad, one of her favorite choices. Marinated flank steak, cut bite-sized, is arrayed over shredded iceberg lettuce, decorated with tomato, onion, and peeled cucumber slices, scattered with mellow blue cheese. It lived up to expectations.
Most entrees come with a salad and a vegetable or two vegetables. The House Salad is based on shredded iceberg lettuce, plus peeled cucumbers, red peppers, and sliced onions. The ranch dressing is pleasantly mellow. Sweetish dinner rolls or cornbread complete the standard presentation.
Chicken and Dumplings is right on target for what your mother or more likely grandmother made, if she was a really good cook. The chicken is tender and moist and there’s plenty of it, with soft pastry in chicken gravy. Chicken Monterrey is a grilled breast, tender and naturally flavorful, augmented with grilled onions, peppers, and mushrooms, topped with warm, soft mozzarella cheese. With these ingredients, it has to be good, and it is.
On a menu characterized by value, the Mixed Grill is an even higher-level bargain as well as a bit of an adventure. I was amazed (not a word I use lightly) at the two fried shrimp — lightly coated, crisp, and tender, equal to most I’ve had at the beach and better than just about any others in
the Triad. The pork chop uses a simple preparation — just seared, yielding a tender, naturally flavorful result. Chicken livers are sauteed with onions and mushrooms and simmered in wine. They are the best I have had in quite some time, maybe ever. All of these are available as separate, full entrees. The shrimp made me determined to come back for a fried seafood platter.
Spaghetti a la Venice incorporates mushrooms, green peppers, and onions in tomato sauce baked with mozzarella cheese. It’s a huge portion, easily enough for two meals. And as much as we enjoyed it in the restaurant, we thought the leftovers tasted even better the next night!
Sirloin Tips with Rice turned out to be hearty and robust, served in an earthy tomato gravy. My wife orders this dish frequently when we eat out. The Carriage House meets or beats others I’ve tasted at double or triple the price.
From a list of two dozen vegetables, all we tried were good. Onion Rings are cut about a half-inch thick, fried crisp. Fried squash is a winner, too. Fried Okra is pleasantly crusty. Beet Salad consists of pickled beets with sliced onions. Pinto Beans and Collard Greens taste pretty much like what I grew up with at home. Homemade potato chips were uniformly crisp — again, equal to or better than, and more consistent, compared to those served in much more expensive restaurants.
Tani and Bana Xhaferi have been owners for 10 years. Megan Walker has been on staff since starting with
the previous owners — for a total of 27 years at The Carriage House. In a telephone interview after my in-person visits, they told me a story about a regular customer whose daughter recently brought him in to say goodbye. He turns 93 this year and probably won’t be able to make it back. But he’s been a regular at The Carriage House for as long as anyone can remember. Don’t know if I’ll make it to 93, but it’s easy to understand how someone could maintain a long relationship with this place. It’s family. !
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.
WANNA go?
The Carriage House 1409 South Stratford Road, Suite G Winston-Salem 27103 336-765-8082
carriagehouserestaurantws.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Appetizers: $5.50-$11
Salads: $8-$17
Soups: $5.50-$8.50
Sandwiches, Quesadillas, Burgers: $12-$14
Entrees: $12.50-$35
Desserts: $5.50-$7.50
Most recent visit: July 7
Chicken Monterrey
Mixed Grill
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spaghetti a la Venice
Good Eat’n: NBA star brings snacks to the Triad
Chanel Davis
Editor
NBA superstar Chris Paul is used to leading championshipwinning teams, but now he’s leading the charge to have healthy, flavorful snacks in your kitchen.
The WinstonSalem native held a tailgate at the Walmart Supercenter, located at 4550 Kester Mill Road in Winston-Salem, to celebrate the retail launch of his Good Eat’n brand into the box stores. The tailgate featured product samples, drinks from Olipop, and photo opportunities with Paul.
“We want kids to have the right tools to be able to have as much longevity as they can in life. Obviously, they’re going to go to school, they’re going to here and whatnot. But I think the earlier you get kids introduced to certain products, they get to know it,” Paul said. “I think with our snacks we lead with taste. So no matter what, I don’t care what you’re into — whether you like cheese, or don’t like cheese — we have something that you’re going to like.”
The plant-based snack brand, with its signature bold colors and playful
branding, inspired by his daughter Cam, is vegan-based, and gluten-free. Paul switched to a plant-based diet in 2019. He said that he developed this brand, with Gopu , to create plant-based options that snack lovers would love.
“I think our snack line is a very kidfriendly snack. That’s why our colors are what they are, why you got the face on
the bags. A lot of things that you get locked into, you learn at an early age. For adults, I think it’s something for you to try and then you’ll really enjoy it,” Paul said.
He said that he ate everything as a kid, but learned to eat better as he got older.
“We know a lot of things now that we didn’t know back then. Like I said, the in-
gredients in our snacks are, I think, what makes it di erent. We don’t have the artificial guys and all these things,” Paul said. “If I had a chance to go back, would I change my eating habits? Absolutely not because a lot of things are learned. The experiences that I had as a child, as a young adult, or whatnot, I probably wouldn’t be as locked in on what I’m locked in on now without those experiences. It’s up to us as parents and adults to try to show our kids.”
Considered one of the best point guards of all time, Paul is a free agent and has played for the San Antonio Spurs, the New Orleans Hornets, the Los Angeles Clippers, the Houston Rockets, the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Phoenix Suns, and the Golden State Warriors. He has won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award, an NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player Award, two Olympic gold medals, and was selected to 12 NBA All-Star teams, 11 All-NBA teams, and nine NBA All-Defensive teams. He attended Wake Forest University playing for the Demon Deacons before being selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2005 NBA draft. He attended West Forsyth High School in Clemmons. He was named a McDonald’s All-American, first-team Parade All-American, and North Carolina’s Mr. Basketball by The Charlotte Observer.
“I always get a special feeling coming back home. There’s never enough time
back home. There’s never enough time
when I’m home. When I come home, everything looks so di erent but the people remain the same. That’s what I appreciate the most.”
When asked what he thought about the current status of Wake Forest’s basketball program, Paul said, “Wake Forest has been amazing.”
“I’m grateful that I got a chance to go over there today and hoop with the guys and see the camaraderie, see the com-
petitiveness. Obviously, I’m locked in on my own season and my kids’ games and stu like that. I follow Wake and always root for them.”
Paul also addressed the talks of his retiring next season.
“Social media is what it is. Like I said, I’m thinking about it. I’ve never made some o cial announcement, but life is life. I’ll figure it out.”
Paul said that he’s most impressed
with the consistency of his family throughout his 20-year career.
“I’m grateful for the things that God has blessed me with over this time because it hasn’t always been pretty, but I’m grateful for what He’s given and shown me,” he said.
For more information or to purchase snacks, visit www.goodeatn.com. You can follow the brand at @goodeatn on Instagram and TikTok. !
CHANEL DAVIS is the current editor of YES! Weekly and graduated from N.C. A&T S.U. in 2011 with a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications. She’s worked at daily and weekly newspapers in the Triad region.
WANNA know?
For more information or to purchase snacks, visit www.goodeatn.com. You can follow the brand at @goodeatn on Instagram and TikTok.
Daily
Multiple investigations create puts local city in the spotlight
Recent weeks have presented the City of Greensboro with issues involving the State Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Justice.
On June 27, the SBI announced the investigation of an unnamed City Council representative. Five days later, that agency began an allegedly unrelated review of former City Attorney Chuck Watts. On July 8, the DOJ announced the indictment of the CEO of the Denver-based LLC that manages Tanger Center and the Coliseum Complex.
Of the two SBI procedures, the one involving Watts is the most documented. Public records show him working as special counsel for the Durham-based defense contractor Cyberlux Corporation, and that some of Watts’ work for Cyberlux was done from his city o ce and email address.
The same day Watts’ resignation was announced, Deputy City Attorney Tony Baker became unreachable via his city phone number or email.
At the July 8 council meeting, Mayor Nancy Vaughan announced the promotion of former Deputy City Attorney Lora Cubbage as Watts’ permanent replacement. Baker was not in attendance.
During public comments, several speakers alleged that Baker and two other sta members were under review for having assisted Watts’ work for Cyberlux. There was no response from council or sta .
After the meeting, when asked if she or current legal sta have done work for Cyberlux, Cubbage replied, “I don’t even know who Cyberlux is.”
At a July 9 press conference, GPD Chief John Thompson called the state’s interest in “the legality of specific business transactions” by Watts “an SBI review rather than a police department investigation.” He stated that the SBI review began July 1, “once individuals within the city were made aware of these potential allegations.”
“That same day, the police department was contacted, we made contact with the SBI, and here we are eight days later, trying to show transparency and accountability.”
A month earlier, YES! Weekly asked Vaughan if council was aware of Watts’ employment by Cyberlux and if that employment was allowed under Watts’ contract. She replied that his contract had been amended to allow for outside employment, but made no statement beyond that.
On July 12, YES! Weekly asked Vaughan when council became aware that some of Watts’ work for Cyberlux
was done on city time and from his city address.
“I have no comment,” replied Vaughan, “as this matter is part of an ongoing review process.” This response came two days after Vaughan told the News & Record “We were under the impression that it was small, that it was not day to day. Our bad for not being more specific.”
On July 14, the City of Greensboro public records o ce released a draft copy of Watts’ separation agreement, which stated “Employee will receive his base annualized salary of $315,670.00 minus applicable taxes and withholdings, for thirteen (13) pay periods beginning July 9, 2025.” As this is a draft copy, it has not yet been voted on or approved by city council.
That o ce also denied a request for all city emails containing the word “Cyberlux,” stating “per the request of the SBI, the City will not be releasing emails responsive to this request at this time.”
Thompson repeatedly cited “a review rather than an investigation” of Watts. SBI Public Information O cer Chad Flowers did not make that same distinction when speaking to The Assembly about his agency’s response to allegations regarding an unnamed city council member, which Flowers repeatedly called “an investigation.”
Both The Assembly and the News & Record have reported that the person of interest is believed to be District 3 Representative Zack Matheny, who is also president of the city-funded booster organization Downtown Greensboro Inc.
“If it were to be me, I am happy for anybody to come and have a conversation with me and look into anything,” Matheny told The Assembly. “I know I’ve done nothing wrong.”
Over the past months, dozens of lengthy emails sent to council, city attorneys and the media by George Hartzman have alleged conflicts of interest and ethical violations by Matheny. A longtime critic of current and past city administration, Hartzman is president and owner of the financial consulting company Hartzman Fiduciary, as well as a blogger, columnist, and former candidate for mayor and city council.
On June 7, Vaughan replied to an email from Hartz-
man with the subject line “Fwd: Formal Request for Investigation & Criminal Referral – DGI Ethics Violations (Matheny, Carroll, Watts, Vaughan, Ho mann and anyone who received gifts).”
In response, Vaughan wrote:
“We have received your email. I understand that earlier you contacted and submitted information directly to the Greensboro Police Department (GPD) requesting an investigation. In accordance with their standard procedure, when an elected o cial is involved, GPD has referred the matter to the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI). It’s important to clarify that this referral is policy and should not be interpreted as an indication of whether or not GPD believes your allegations have merit.”
Responding to speakers at the July 8 council meeting who alleged that the recently announced SBI investigation was about him, Matheny stated, “Nobody has talked to me.” Matheny has not responded to queries about whether the SBI or the district attorney’s o ce has contacted either him or his attorney.
As yet unrelated to either of these controversies is the Justice Department’s July 9 indictment of Timothy J. Leiweke, co-founder and CEO of the Denver-based Oak View Group (OVG) LLC, for “orchestrating a conspiracy to rig the bidding process for an arena at a public university in Austin, Texas.”
On March 4, 2024, Greensboro City Council unanimously voted to approve OVG’s bid for private management and booking services contracts for the Greensboro Coliseum Complex and the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. !
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.
Zach Matheny
Chuck Watts
Ian McDowell Contributor
Live Aid and the sounds of late-July
Cicadas and fireflies
fill the thick summer air, as July melts on by with a full plate of music o erings and festival gatherings.
In the Triad, Vagabond Saints’ Society hopes to fill a few plates with “Live Aid Redux: Nourishing Our Community Together,” a concert benefitting Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest N.C. on July 19, in the Coal Pit at Incendiary Brewing Company.
As per usual, VSS will bring together an all-star lineup of local musicians, this time for a one-night-only tribute channeling the legendary spirit of the iconic July 1985 Live Aid Charity Concert — with a local twist and local purpose.
“Just like the original event, this concert supports the fight against hunger, with all proceeds benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest N.C.,” said VSS ringleader Doug Davis. “From Wembley to Winston: The Spirit Lives On.”
Digging into that spirit, “While the original Live Aid united millions to address famine in Ethiopia, decades later, hunger remains a challenge for families right here at home,” he continued. ”By reimagining this historic concert we aim to raise awareness and vital funds to build foodsecure communities across our region.”
“Music has always had the power to connect us and move us to action,” Davis added. “Together, we can channel that spirit to ensure everyone has enough to eat. Come out, enjoy the show, and be part of something that truly makes a di erence.”
Originally scheduled as a ticketed event at Hoots, VSS has shifted the concert into being a free admission, all-ages, charity function in the Coal Pit on July 19. The spirit of giving is similarly alive and well in the Triangle, with Equal Parts N.C. hosting a BBQ pool party for Planned Parenthood at Wolfe & Porter in Raleigh on July 20; and Oyster Fest returning to the Durham Hotel July 17-20.
“Get ready to shuck, slurp, and savor your way through Oyster Fest 2025,” orga-
nizers said, emphasizing the immaculate rooftop vibes, oysters galore, and a fresh mission in the wake of Tropical Storm Chantel.
“We’re using Oyster Fest as an opportunity to support our neighbors a ected by the storm,” they explained. “On Sunday, July 20, we’ll donate $1 from every Airmail cocktail sold to Day One Relief, a local organization working to provide direct assistance to those impacted by natural disasters.”
As for entry, “no tickets, no reservations: just four days of oysters, live music, shucking demos and good vibes. Locals Seafood will host oyster shucking demos throughout the weekend; along with folks from the N.C. Oyster Trail, who’ll be sharing information (and swag) showcasing North Carolina’s rich aquaculture. Featured performers include Al Strong on Thursday, DJ Gemynii on Friday, Counterclockwise String Band on Saturday, and DJ Lolo on Sunday.
Over in Raleigh, there’s a BBQ blast for reproductive freedom at Wolfe & Porter in Raleigh on July 20.
Hosted by Equal Parts, a charity popup collective of Oak City hospitality specialists, their latest o ering promises to “be one for the summer;” with kiddy pools, food from Long Leaf Swine, music from Chicken Ranch Road Show, and proceeds going directly to Planned Parenthood. Moving into music fests just for the fest of it, Average Weekend will bring an extraordinary experimental experience to the Lump Gallery on July 18 and Cathedral II on July 19. Greensboro’s Hedonista joins Raleigh’s Poison Skull and Wework, and Durham-based Marta Nunez Pouzols, as
the homestate o erings on the Friday night bill with Philadelphia’s Liquid Asset, and New Yorker’s Cube and Henhouse. The Saturday installment features a special location and special surprises; along with Anonymous Duo, Verity Den, Matt Robidoux, Matt Normal, CEVRA, Glyn Maier, Secret Boyfriend, and Seiiser.
Heading east, Nonviolent O ender Booking brings Midsommer to Uptown Brewing Company in Greenville on July 19. “We’re turning this brewery into a full-blown genre-bending festival for one unforgettable night of live music, local art, and craft brews,” said NVO Booking’s Sarah Parker-Hardy, dropping the N.C.-laden lineup featuring Babe Havon, Mascons, missbliss!, blankstate., amberjack, Seb & Newt, Subvertigo, and Lawn Enforcement.
As the month closes, Quest Fest returns to the banks of the Dan River in Stokes County, for a weekend of “art, music, nature, and community,” at Jessup Mill Campground, July 25-27.
Hosted and curated by the Hypnotic Conquest, “this isn’t just a music festival — it’s an experience,” organizers said, musing the adventure that awaits: riverside activities to unwind and connect with nature; camping under the Carolina sky, soaking up community vibes; enjoying visual and performative art; and of course dancing the night away.
Royal Jelly, John Colby Elwick and the End, Sol Flo, The Kind Thieves, Stereodoll, Dubtown Cosmonauts, Being Followed, Al Al and Associates, Ham Jam, Madcap Malice, Nic & the Lodians, Sugar Foot, Hunter McBride, Chuck Brine, Joel Keller, Ogre Bones, and On.eL round out the mu-
sical lineup; with flow and firework from Brittany ISO, Megasuarus Rex, Joz on Fire, Evol Gene, and Fiery Byrd. Visual artists include: Brandon Besecker, Eric Wattinne, Casey Wattinne, MoJoh, Johnathan Hardie, Molly Chopin, Sketchy, Abbydala, Liz Lawson, and Josh Jahsta. Crystal Htrck will lead yoga workshops.
“Unleash Your Inner Adventurer and join us for an Unforgettable Weekend!”
For the more traditional old-timers: the Ashe County Bluegrass and Old Time Fiddlers Convention returns — for the 54th year! — to Ashe County Park, July 25-26. Friday’s concerts include performances from the Ashe County Junior Appalachian Musicians, Sassafrass, and New Ballard’s Branch Bogtrotters; meanwhile, Saturday will feature competitions for bragging rights (and the $4,350 in prize money).
In Concord, the Hikari Anime Festival takes over the Cabarrus Brewing Co.’s Kettle Room, for an anime-oriented EDM party (all ages until 7 p.m.) on July 26. “Let’s celebrate a new dawn together!,” organizers said. “Anime-loving Families are encouraged to come during the day,” they added, with Tokyo Nova, Tanzanite, Philsological, Alex, and Darius are the DJs on decks for the evening event.
Rounding it out with a reinvigorated Greensboro tradition: the Greensboro Zine Fest returns, July 26-27!
Taking residence in founder Tristin Miller’s fitness center slash studio, One Rep Weightlifting, the 2025 GSO Zine Fest will feature two full days of ”Printed Matter Heaven” from an array of vendors, as Miller looks forward to hosting zinemaking workshops throughout the year in her space.
“We believe this is an opportunity to give the community a chance to explore, create, and discover all the possibilities that printed matter can be used for sharing our personal stories, skills, and ideas,” Miller said; emphasizing “the revolution will be D.I.Y.”
“There’s power in printed matter,” she added, ”and no one can take that away from you.”
Whether through sounds or stories or shuckin’ oysters: N.C. artists are seizing the power of good this soggy late July. Cheers! !
KATEI CRANFORD is a Triad music nerd who enjoys spotlighting artists and events.
Katei Cranford
Contributor
greensboro
Char Bar No. 7
3724 Lawndale Dr. | 336.545.5555 www.charbar7.com
Jul 17: The Suttons (Todd & abbey)
Jul 24: No Strings attached Duo
Jul 31: Tyler Millard Duo
CoMEDY ZoNE
1126 S Holden Rd | 336.333.1034 www.thecomedyzone.com
Jul 17: Calimar White
Jul 18-19: Pete Lee
FLaT IroN
221 Summit Ave | 336.501.3967
www.flatirongso.com
Jul 11: Will hoge w/ Evan Blackerby
Jul 17: Sunny Sweeny w/ Cam Pierce
Jul 18: The Stolen Faces
Jul 25: Cyril Lance Collective
Jul 28: Cordovas w/ Time Sawyer
GaraGE TavErN
5211 A West Market St | 336.763.2020
www.facebook.com/GarageTavernGreensboro
Jul 18: No Strings attached Band
Jul 19: Dear Sister Band
Jul 20: Wild Bill Fundraiser
Jul 20: Joel McCarson
Jul 25: Daniel Love
Jul 26: Gypsy Danger Band
GrEENSBoro CoLISEuM
1921 W Gate City Blvd | 336.373.7400
www.greensborocoliseum.com
Jul 16: Keyshia Cole
Jul 17: old Dominion
haNGar 1819
1819 Spring Garden St | 336.579.6480
www.hangar1819.com
Jul 18: Summer Carnage 2025 ft. until The Bleed, Inurvah, Lux Extermina, Fatehaven, Pathologic
Jul 29: anthony Green w/ Kurt Travis, Geoff rickly
jamestown
ThE DECK
118 E Main St | 336.207.1999
www.facebook.com/TheDeckJamestown/
Jul 18: Second Glance
Jul 19: Stereo Doll
Jul 25: Basement Legends
Jul 26: No Strings attached
winston-salem
EarL’S
121 West 9th Street | 336.448.0018 www.earlsws.com
Mondays: open Mic
FooThILLS BrEWING
638 W 4th St | 336.777.3348 www.foothillsbrewing.com
1. “Believe.” 2. Dogs generally know an average of 89 words and phrases, but the number can range from 15 to 215. 3. Hawaii and Arizona. 4. Four balls of three di erent types (the Qua e, two Bludgers and the Golden Snitch).
[SALOME’S STARS]
Week of July 21, 2025
[ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A misunderstanding tests the temperament of the sometimes headstrong ARIES. But instead of blowing your top, take time for a pleasant diversion while things cool down.
[TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A workplace problem could make the divine Bovine see red, but talk it out before you consider walking out. Some surprising facts emerge that could change your earlier focus.
[GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You face a choice between ignoring your uneasy feelings about your relationship with a special person and demanding explanations. A close friend o ers wise counsel.
[CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A change you’d been hoping for carries an unexpected complication. Stay the course, and things will work themselves out. Also, be sure to make time for family and friends.
[LEO (July 23 to August 22) Aspects favor spending time with loved ones. On the job, new ideas are generally welcomed,
but some demands for changes could cause problems. Be ready to defend your choices.
[VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Good news: A workplace problem is close to being resolved with results that should please everyone. Take time o to indulge in your love of fun and games.
[LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Most of the time, you are the most unflappable person around. But be ready to be thrown o -balance in the nicest way when Cupid takes aim in your direction.
[SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) It’s not often when someone tries to “sting” the sharp-witted SCORPIOn, but it can happen. Continue to be skeptical about anything that seems too good to be true.
[SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Your strong sense of selfesteem helps you serve as a role model for someone who needs personal reassurances. Your e orts pay o in an unexpected way.
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[cAPrIcorN (December 22 to January 19) Someone close considers revealing a painful secret. Withhold judgment. Instead, open your generous heart and offer dollops of your love and understanding.
[AQuArIus (January 20 to February 18) Your talents as a peacemaker are called upon once more as an old problem reemerges with new complications. Move cautiously to avoid falling into hidden traps.
[PIsces (February 19 to March 20) Your artistic side is enhanced with the reception given to your new project. Use this success as encouragement toward fulfilling your larger goals.
[BorN THIs week: Your natural sense of leadership is combined with a deep sense of responsibility. People trust you to give them both guidance and understanding.
