YES! Weekly — September 2, 2026

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“COYOTE VS. ACME”

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1618 WEST

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HOPSCOTCH FESTIVAL

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SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026 YES! WEEKLY

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SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026 VOLUME 22, NUMBER 36

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GREENSBORO PRIDE 2026 3

The RiverRun International Film Festival will inaugurate its new “SCENE & HEARD” annual film series with a special screening of the critically acclaimed, R-rated comedy “I Love Boosters” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at the ACE Exhibition Complex.

4 The summer movie season closes out on a high note with “COYOTE VS. ACME,” one of the best movies of the entire year, and the craziest thing is that it almost wasn’t released at all — for reasons we’ll get to eventually.

5

We all know about the dangers of voter suppression and voter apathy, but it’s high time we address the problem of VOTER IGNORANCE. That’s why I agree with Professor Brennan that voting rights should be tied to voter competency.

7 I am always reluctant to name any restaurant “the best,” because on any given night, one could surpass another.

But I would always include 1618 WEST in any listing of the top-ranked places in the Triad.

8 ImpaqtGSO will host its annual GREENSBORO PRIDE Parade and Festival celebrating its 20th anniversary in downtown Greensboro next Saturday, September 12, beginning at 10 a.m.

11 Happy Labor Day weekend, Triad

music lovers! It’s that time of year when I chase away the end-of-summer bummers with a look at the upcoming HOPSCOTCH MUSIC FESTIVAL, returning to downtown Raleigh Sept. 10-12, for a strange and bittersweet 16th year.

12 Last week, Guilford District Court

Judge Ashley Watlington-Simms sentenced Assistant Public Defender Juan Zuluaga to five days in jail for CRIMINAL CONTEMPT. The incident occurred during an Aug. 24 hearing at the High Point courthouse.

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visions

SEE IT!

RiverRun kicks off ‘Scene and Heard’ series

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he RiverRun International Film Festival will inaugurate its new “Scene & Heard” annual film series with a special screening of the critically acclaimed, R-rated comedy “I Love Boosters” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at the ACE Exhibition Complex, located on the UNCSA Mark Burger main campus, 1533 S. Main St., Winston-Salem. Tickets are $25 (general admission), $5 (stuContributor dents with valid ID), and $50 (VIP), the latter of which includes an exclusive meet-and-greet with filmmaker Boots Riley. Tickets can be purchased at https://riverrunfilm.com/.

The event, which was co-founded with the UNCSA School of Filmmaking and a/perture cinema, will include a post-screening conversation with Riley and Abrea Armstrong, the executive director of Triad Cultural Arts.

“I think a big part of the motivation for creating this ongoing series came from spending the past nine months and having one festival under my belt,” said Michael Morin, RiverRun’s executive director. “In that time, I’ve really come to admire and appreciate just how substantial, passionate, experienced, and well-rounded the film community is here in WinstonSalem and throughout the Piedmont Triad. This felt like a natural step in RiverRun’s commitment to our community and to the film ecosystem we’re trying to build.

“Boots Riley felt like the perfect filmmaker to begin with because he represents so much of what I hope this series can encourage,” Morin said. “He’s not afraid to make something that is distinctly his. His work is bold, politically sharp, deeply funny, and visually unlike almost anything else being made right now. He reminds us that there is no single way to be a filmmaker or an artist, and that some of the most exciting work happens when you refuse to do the expected thing.”

“I Love Boosters,” which Riley wrote, produced, and directed, is based on the song of the same name by Riley’s hip-hop group the Coup, and details the misadventures of a group of shoplifters enmeshed in an escalating grudge match with a high-minded fashion designer (played by Demi Moore) — although there’s much more to the story than that. Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Poppy Liu, Eiza Gonzalez, Taylour Paige, Robin Thede, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, and Don Cheadle round out the all-star ensemble.

Leigh Dyer, a/perture cinema’s executive director, was scheduled to attend an industry conference for independent cinemas in June in which Riley was the keynote speaker. Dyer and Jake Laystrom, a/perture’s curator, planned to invite Riley to a/perture. When WWW.YESWEEKLY.COM

she mentioned this to Deborah LaVine, the School of Filmmaking dean, LaVine told them that Riley was the most requested filmmaker among UNCSA students and agreed to collaborate with them if Riley consented to a visit.

When Laystrom was unable to attend the conference, Dyer offered his ticket to Morin, who accompanied her to Chicago. Morin himself had expressed an interest in inviting Riley to Winston-Salem.

“After Boots’ talk, both Michael and I succeeded in speaking with him, and he agreed he’d love to visit us in Winston-Salem,” Dyer said. “When we got back, we teamed up with Deborah and joined together in one of the lengthiest e-mail chains of my life with Boots’ booker to find an acceptable date and contract to get him to come. As you can tell, we finally succeeded!”

Indeed, it seemed that serendipity played a part in putting the event together. “Great minds think alike!”

Dyer quipped.

“Working with both Deborah LaVine and Leigh Dyer has been incredibly easy because, at the root of what we all do, is the same question: How can we do more for the communities we serve? How can we be better?

And if we can accomplish that together, then let’s figure out how to make it work,” Morin said.

“I also think there’s a shared independent spirit among all three organizations,” he observed. “We’re willing to keep pushing forward, even when an idea is challenging, or there isn’t an obvious roadmap for how to make it happen. There’s something incredibly energizing about people coming together around a shared idea and figuring it out together. That kind of collaboration can be infectious, and hopefully this is

just the beginning of more of it.”

“We agreed that it was really fun to be collaborating like this, so we have decided to make this a recurring fall event each year — “Scene & Heard” — at which we will collaborate on exciting visiting speakers near the beginning of each new school year at UNCSA,” Dyer added. “This is the first time our three institutions have collaborated like this, so we are truly excited to be creating a great new event and tradition together, and really excited for the future possibilities!”

This year, RiverRun also expanded its submission deadlines for the upcoming festival, opening the process in August rather than September, and the results have been instantaneous.

“The response has honestly been overwhelming,” Morin said. “We’ve already received 28% of the total number of submissions we received throughout last year. With nearly 15 weeks remaining (until the deadline), we’re all feeling really great about the decision to open submissions earlier and give filmmakers more time to find us. Honestly, simply getting filmmakers thinking about RiverRun earlier in the year is a win for us. The earlier we can get on their radar, the more time we have to build those relationships and ultimately create a stronger festival.” (To submit a film for consideration, visit https://filmfreeway.com/riverrun.)

The 29th annual RiverRun International Film Festival will take place April 16-24, 2027. For more information, call 336-724-1502 or visit the official RiverRun website: https://riverrunfilm.com/. !

See MARK BURGER’s reviews of current movies. © 2026, Mark Burger.

SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026 YES! WEEKLY

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flicks

SCREEN IT!

‘Coyote vs. Acme’: Last, best blast of the summer

BY MARK BURGER

T

he summer movie season closes out on a high note with “Coyote vs. Acme,” one of the best movies of the entire year, and the craziest thing is that it almost

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wasn’t released at all — for reasons we’ll get to eventually.

For more years than he cares to remember, Wile E. Coyote had launched a futile assault on his speedy nemesis, the Road Runner, which has inevitably ended in disaster for the self-proclaimed “super genius.” More often than not, the various

devices he purchased from the Acme Corporation to capture the Road Runner invariably malfunctioned, leaving Wile E. Coyote the worse for wear … at least until the next scheme and animated short.

Now, at long last, Wile E. Coyote has taken his grievances to Kevin Avery (Will Forte), a billboard attorney who’s never seen an ambulance he didn’t want to chase. Kevin has succeeded in suing Acme before, but only for quick payouts of paltry sums. Wile E. Coyote, however, wants what he feels is his just due — and he’ll stop at nothing to persuade Kevin to pursue the case.

Amusingly touted as being “based on a true story,” the film was scripted by Samy Burch from a story he concocted with producer James Gunn and Jeremy Birch, inspired by an article published in The New Yorker in 1999 by Ian Frazier, which approached the concept in serious, poker-faced terms. Not so the film, which is brimming with energy and ingenuity.

The film’s affection for its source material is plainly evident from the get-go, with plenty of vintage clips and in-jokes included in the mix. “Coyote vs. Acme” is a love letter to the “Looney Tunes” of yesteryear, one that can be enjoyed and savored by all ages, particularly those viewers who grew up watching them on television.

A potential hurdle is a feature-length running time, given that the cartoon shorts were just that — shorts. But director Dave Green maintains an appropriately frantic pace throughout, and there’s never a dull moment.

The combination of live action and animation is as seamless and eyepopping as the granddaddy of them all, “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” (1988), and what further distinguishes “Coyote vs. Acme” is the storyline, which accurately — and often uproariously — riffs on modern-day litigation, with some hearty media razzing thrown in for good measure.

The human cast plays it straight, which

is the only way to go. Unless it’s Robin Williams or Jim Carrey or Jack Black, there’s no way an actor can outshine a cartoon character. Forte gives one of his best performances as the seedy shyster whose inner integrity is resuscitated by the case, as well as the encouragement of his niece and legal intern Paige (charming Lana Condor).

On the other side of the courtroom is John Cena’s smug, selfassured Buddy Crane, an unabashed corporate shill and an old law-school “buddy” of Kevin’s. The always-welcome Luis Guzman plays Judge Troppogrosso, admirably keeping a straight face as he attempts to maintain decorum in the courtroom. (Rest assured, it won’t happen.)

A good many of the “Looney Tunes/ Merrie Melodies” stalwarts show up, some only briefly — but it’s sure nice to see them again, with most of them voiced by Eric Bauza. Somehow, it only seems fitting that Foghorn Leghorn would be the CEO of Acme and Elmer Fudd has been elected to the U.S. Senate (!).

Warner Bros. Discovery had planned to release the film in the summer of 2023, then opted to release “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” instead, both of which became huge hits. Rather than delay “Coyote vs. Acme,” it was decided simply not to release it at all and take a tax write-off. Given that this is the same studio that unleashed “Supergirl” to theaters earlier this year, make of that decision what you will.

Into the breach came Ketchup Entertainment, which likewise rescued “The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie” (2024), which Warner Bros. Animation had also consigned to the cinematic dustbin. Thus, it’s a small miracle — and a wise business decision on Ketchup’s behalf — that we’re seeing “Coyote vs. Acme” at all, and it’s a cause for celebration. !

See MARK BURGER’s reviews of current movies.

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E

ach day I monitor a number of mainstream news sources, and recently I came across a segment on FOX News in which Jesse WatJim Longworth ters presented a series of man-onthe-street interLongworth views with young at Large people who were hanging out at the Jersey Shore. The interviewer asked a series of simple questions relating to government, geography, and civics. Their responses are almost as distressing as the fact that many of these idiots actually vote.

More on that in a moment, but first here are highlights from the interviews: Q: Who is Trump’s vice president?

A: J.K. Rowling Q: Name the three branches of government.

A: Republican, Democrat, and Independent.

Q: What is the First Amendment to the Constitution?

A: Free will.

Q: What is the Second Amendment about?

A: The right to vote.

A: The right to go places.

Q: How many Supreme Court Justices are there?

A: 20 A: 101 A: 13 A: 7 Q: Name a current Supreme Court Justice.

A: Amy Winehouse A: Sonya Gomez A: Samuel Adams A: Nancy Pelosi A: Neil Armstrong Q: Name a state that borders on California.

A: I don’t know history.

A: Kentucky A: Florida A: The one to the left (interviewer).

That’s the Pacific Ocean.

A: Yeah, that one.

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We might be in big trouble Q: Who was our president in the 1990’s?

A: FDR A: Joe Clinton A: How am I supposed to know that?

That last response says it all and gets to the heart of our overreaching problem in America. Today’s youth can text with lightning-fast speed and navigate the most complicated video games, but many kids aren’t learning or retaining the kind of information that would make them responsible citizens who can sustain our democracy going forward. Even so, there are some elected officials who believe that we should lower the voting age from 18 to 16 (it had been 21 until 1971). One such advocate is Washington, D.C. City Councilman Charles Allen, who said, “At the age of 16 our society already gives young people greater legal responsibility. They can drive a car. They can work, and they pay taxes. Yet they can’t exercise their voice where it matters most — at the ballot box.”

All that is true, but attaining the ripe old age of 16 and working part-time at McDonald’s doesn’t mean that kids today are qualified to help decide who goes to Congress or who occupies the White House. The Jersey Shore gang proves that point, but only for one reason. As I mentioned, those young

people suffer from self-imposed ignorance resulting from not paying attention in class. But their lack of knowledge is also the result of WHERE they choose to get their misinformation. According to a 2025 PEW report, only 15% of young people ages 18 to 29 even bother to follow current events, and 76% of that group get their news solely from social media, mainly Instagram and TikTok, both of which are unregulated platforms that are not obligated to disseminate accurate information.

In the 1992 election, 55% of 18-yearolds and other young, first-time voters participated in the process because they were energized by the candidacy of Bill Clinton (or Joe Clinton if you live on the Jersey Shore). That number was nearly matched in 2008 when Barack Obama’s candidacy drove young people to the polls. However, only about 38% of 18to 29-year-olds usually turn out to vote in any given year. Even so, that means those young voters can decide the outcome of crucial races — something which worries me given the fact that many of them are armed with either no information or inaccurate information about the issues and candidates.

It’s no wonder that Georgetown University professor Jason Brennan recently proposed that we operate as an “epistocracy” whereby the right to vote is conditional on knowledge. Bren-

nan suggests that we establish some type of national competency exam to determine if an individual is capable of casting an informed vote. Under his proposal, we could either use the U.S. citizenship test or develop something new, so long as it is drafted in a nonpartisan manner and not based on ideologies of any one political party.

We all know about the dangers of voter suppression and voter apathy, but it’s high time we address the problem of voter ignorance. That’s why I agree with Professor Brennan that voting rights should be tied to voter competency.

No doubt such a proposal would be heavily litigated, and if so, then it can be decided by our 101 Supreme Court Justices. !

JIM LONGWORTH is the host of Triad Today, airing on Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. on ABC45 (cable channel 7) and Sundays at 11 a.m. on WMYV (cable channel 15) and streaming on WFMY+.

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[KING CROSSWORD] FELINE FROM AFAR

ACROSS 1

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More serious, as a matter It’s hidden by head hair Quivered Sure to succeed, as a proposition Marisa of “Cyrus” Cesar Ritz or Conrad Hilton Immediately Of the hipbone With great happiness Start of a riddle Breathe hard and fast Seat of Kansas’ Allen County Whale like Shamu Bouncer’s age- verifying duty — Park (site of Edison’s lab) Shock absorbers, of sorts Riddle, part 2 Overly affected Two, in Spain Certain blood type, in brief Quantity: Abbr.

Egyptian sun god Fiber-yielding plant Charlotte — (rich dessert) Erwin of old films Web portal since ‘95 Riddle, part 3 Mailed, e.g.

Pen name Tiny, informally Riddle, part 4 Really binges, briefly

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Atlanta-to-Tampa dir.

Dog’s tether Edict Expend all of Lay (down) 84-Down of Bart Simpson 85 “Indubitably!”

87 Dazzling effects 91 End of the riddle 97 Signs up 98 Fishing line attachments 99 Private school 100 Personal manner 101 Chimney stuff 102 Skewed view 103 Riddle’s answer 113 Egyptian carrier until 2021 116 Makes level 117 Disappear without — 118 Least narrow 119 Fix, as a bow 120 Papal crowns 121 Cutting parts of some cutting tools 122 Sulky states 123 Accompany for security

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Chew like a rat Horror film director Eli Emollient plant juice Gold-winning skier Lindsey Locked place where people solve puzzles to find the key People staging old battles, say Clown’s leg lengthener

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E. — (bacterium) Lady friend, in France On a slant Small flute Iota preceder Do deep massage therapy on And the like: Abbr.

Portion (out) Ignored, informally Pan topper Sinuous fish Parched Egyptian sacred cross Truckloads Goes over, as old issues Sevastopol natives, e.g.

Deputy: Abbr.

Hairy TV cousin Whoop-de- — Co. VIP Owns, to Shakespeare L-P link Mag VIPs Big Mac base Wombs Fill with steam Mag revenue sources Cry to a baby who makes a boo-boo Potentially offensive, in brief Attacked aggressively Business coll. subject Repair Neighbor of Nor. and Fin. Dir. 45 degrees from 77-Across “Madam Secretary” star Perturb Rig on a road

63 Panther 64 Med. insurers 65 “Ready Player One” co-star Sheridan 67 “J to — L-O!” (Lopez album) 69 Until now 72 Dots on ocean maps 73 Switch gears 75 Become less intense 76 In the current state 80 Land with a 50-star flag 81 Said “guilty” or “not guilty” 82 Apple discard 84 Bro’s sibling 85 Hearty laugh 86 Three in “maximum” 88 “Botch- —” (1952 hit) 89 Pro — (for now) 90 Pigs’ hangout 92 Makes an allusion to 93 Sneaker, e.g.

94 Horn honkers 95 A baker may wear a mitt to handle one 96 Longtime depilatory brand 101 Singer Patti or Sam 102 Greyhound transports 104 Deputy 105 Body part with a cap 106 Brooklyn Bridge’s river 107 Legendary snow beast 108 Doing the task 109 — II (Gillette razor) 110 Starchy tropical root 111 Plug-in auto 112 Repose 113 Sit-up targets 114 Lyricist Gershwin 115 Seating tier

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chow

EAT IT!

Chow Down with John Batchelor at 1618 West

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BY JOHN BATCHELOR

am always reluctant to name any restaurant “the best,” because on any given night, one could surpass another. But I would always include 1618 West in any listing of the top-ranked places in the Triad.

The interior is modern-sleek, a function of repurposed facilities, treated for sound absorbency. In a past life, the interior was noisy-harsh. Now, if not mellow, at least you can carry on a conversation here. Better, actually, than in most restaurants these days.

Service personnel are knowledgeable and efficient. The wine list is one of the most carefully crafted in the Triad, an obvious outgrowth of significant professional expertise.

Bread service earns special praise, not only for flavor but also for the lush spinach-basil pesto that accompanies it.

This is only served on request, but they don’t charge extra for it.

Presentations are alive with color and complexity. At one time, this restaurant billed itself as a seafood grill. Seafoods remain the specialty, although other proteins have been added. I think the seafoods here are exceptional. So is everything else.

Calamari is delightfully crisp. I can’t imagine anyone else in the Triad plating calamari over a red bean salsa, but that’s how this is presented, and it works, the beans lending nutrition as well as flavor to a dish that is often barren. This is surrounded by a swirl of basil oil, with spicy chipotle mayonnaise dolloped over the assembly, scattered microgreens on top. I rank this at the top among area restaurants for this perennially popular starter.

Halibut is seared dark brown, creating a firm crust that generates its own flavor, followed by tender, hot white flesh. The fish is coated with a blend of pistachios and herbs, extending flavor and adding another flavor dimension.

This sits atop roasted cauliflower, itself resting in a swirl of lemon tahini yogurt.

Rounding out the vegetable complement, roasted carrots are treated with spiced maple vinaigrette, and grilled eggplant is ladled with tomato sauce.

Grouper is one of my favorite fish, and I have every reason to believe my enthu-

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Grouper

Key Lime Pie

siasm for this uniquely ugly beast (I am a certified SCUBA diver; you ever see a big live one of these things up close?) is shared by many others. So I was pleased to sample it twice on these visits. One time it was covered with a corn, black bean, and onion salsa, flanked by a swirled spinach and red bell pepper strips concoction, alongside a crisp fried grits cake hosting large grilled shrimp.

The other time repeated that presentation but served shredded sofrito pork shoulder instead of the shrimp. This illustrates one of the traits I have enjoyed here — how chefs juxtapose dissimilar ingredients in a novel way that nevertheless works for both.

The menu offers Tuna in two alternatives. At the top of the list, the treatment is a white and black sesame seed crust, seared, usually served rare. It is obviously sushi grade — no gristle, solid flavor. Slices are arrayed around a center of sautéed sesame cabbage, an excellent complement. Flavor and color are enhanced with a moat of chipotle oil and balsamic glaze, studded with crushed almonds and feta cheese crumbles. At the bottom of the menu lies Five Spiced Tuna, likewise seared and served rare, this time resting on a bed of soba noodles. Alongside, a rice paper sail navigates through marinated summer vegetables and a six-minute sliced egg.

Both preparations are outstanding.

Seared Sea Bass occupies center stage on the plate, bearing a pleasantly crisp crust that gives way to a tender interior, topped with a portobello mushroom relish. The assembly is placed over stalks of grilled asparagus, situated over a crusty risotto cake. Cherry tomatoes, halved

and filled with Boursin cheese plus a morsel of lump crabmeat, structure the corners. Swirls of basil oil interlaced with balsamic glaze lend color as well as flavor accents.

As much as I liked the seafoods, I thought somebody ought to try one of the meat or fowl entrees. The menu offers Beef Tenderloin as well as Chicken dishes. My wife, however, went all in with Surf and Turf. Here, as you might expect, this is quite unlike any other.

Lamb Lollipops are treated with turmeric, roasted tandoori-style, rendering exceptional depth of flavor from within tender texture. Blackened Shrimp constitute the surf side, large, tender, and flavorful. Red and yellow bell pepper strips burst with color as well as flavor, joined by sliced zucchini. Jasmine rice hosts the proteins.

Diet notwithstanding, passing up desserts here just constitutes bad judgment. Tart-sweet Key Lime Pie is decadently delicious, redolent of crème anglaise, whipped cream, and toasted coconut. Chocolate Almond Tart rests in a shortbread crust, its chocolate almond cream studded with chocolate morsels, capped with chocolate and amaretto ice cream, a chocolate wedge slashing down the center. Two pastry chefs, Shakera Handy and Amanda Janczak, create truly striking presentations, their visual impact matched by flavor.

The restaurant’s website lists an extensive number of community initiatives the restaurant has supported. It also does an admirable job of crediting multiple members of the team for their contributions. Managing Director/Proprietor Nick Wilson came to Greensboro

for college and remained for business.

The Greensboro Chamber of Commerce named him Small Business Person of the Year, the award coming among other business-related recognitions. Corporate Chef/Proprietor George Neal is selftaught. He started out washing dishes while a student at Page High School, later graduating to the kitchen at The Madison Park (RIP), which I considered one of the two or three best restaurants that have ever lived in the Triad.

He oversees regionally inspired menus influenced by Asia, Latin America, and, of course, the South.

Stacy Land was one of the first people in Greensboro to receive the prestigious Certified Sommelier designation from the Court of Master Sommeliers. She is working towards globally recognized credentials for wine, spirits, and sake knowledge from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. The list at 1618 has won multiple Wine Spectator awards.

Sous chefs are Angus Davis and Anuar Hidalgo.

I wish I had space to name all the personnel who are part of this stellar establishment. Suffice it to say, they all play a role in taking 1618 West to the top of the Triad. !

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?

1618 West 1618 W. Friendly Ave. Greensboro, NC 27403 336-235-0898 Hours: 5:30-9 p.m. Monday, 5:30-10 p.m.

Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday Brunch, Bar opens Monday-Saturday at 5 p.m.

Appetizers: $19-$26 Salads: $11-$14 Soup: $10 Entrees: $39-$52 Desserts: $4-$14 Most recent visit: Aug. 11 SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026 YES! WEEKLY

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spread

Community, Unity and Pride: Greensboro Pride celebrates 20 years

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BY YES! WEEKLY STAFF

mpaqtGSO will host its annual Greensboro Pride Parade and Festival celebrating its 20th anniversary in downtown Greensboro next Saturday, Sept. 12, beginning at 10 a.m.

Crest presents this vibrant celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, which begins with a Pride Parade at 10 a.m. along Elm Street, followed by the Pride Festival from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in LeBauer Park, located at 208 N. Davie St. This free festival is held in the fall to maximize student and community participation and to avoid extreme summer heat, creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone. Optional ticketed experiences are available for those who want added access while supporting Pride and year-round programming.

Pride Week will be held in various locations across the city as attendees lead up to festival day with a week of pride, purpose, and community spirit.

On Saturday, Sept. 5, the 2026 Greensboro Pride Pageant will be held at The Pyrle, located at 232 S. Elm St. in Greensboro. The pageant showcases dazzling talent, fierce creativity, and the crowning of this year’s Pride royalty. Doors open at 5 p.m. with the show beginning at 6 p.m.

The 5th Annual LGBTQ+ Art Show and Exhibition, brought to you by Carolina Aging Alliance and the Creative Aging Network, in partnership with AARP Triad Region and IMPAQT GSO, will be held on Thursday, Sept.

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10 at 5 p.m. The Greensboro Pride Edition of Twisted Trivia will be held on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. at Twist Lounge, located at 435 Dolly Madison Road. Attendees are encouraged to test their knowledge and their pride with a night of laughs, community, and friendly competition.

The Greensboro Pride Kick-off Dance Party will be held on Friday, Sept. 11 at 10 p.m. at Chemistry Nightclub, located at 2901 Spring Garden St. The official Greensboro Pride Afterparty will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 8:30 p.m. at Twist Lounge, located at 435 Dolly Madison Road. There will be music, dancing, and Pride energy all

night long. There is a $5 cover charge.

The Greensboro Pride Festival spans the heart of downtown, encompassing North Church Street, North Davie Street, East Lindsay Street, and East Friendly Avenue. This vibrant, walkable footprint is packed with vendors, food trucks, entertainment stages, and themed zones — all celebrating Pride in every direction.

The show-stopping Main Stage brings world-class headliners and high-energy performances, drawing the crowd together for unforgettable moments of unity and celebration.

The Entertainer Stage showcases local talent and WWW.YESWEEKLY.COM

emerging artists, offering a more intimate experience where you can connect with the vibrant creativity of our community.

The KidZone is a colorful, family-friendly haven filled with engaging activities, crafts, and interactive fun designed for our youngest festival-goers. The KidZone is a safe and welcoming space where children can play, create, and celebrate pride alongside their families.

The Adults Only Alley is a curated section of the festival featuring vendors and merchandise with adult themes, intended for guests 18 and over. While not a party zone, this area offers products and content that are best suited for mature audiences.

Housed in a private, air-conditioned indoor venue just steps from the festival’s main stage, the ticketed All Access VIP Lounge offers a comfortable escape from the crowds with lounge seating, private restrooms, and a relaxed atmosphere.

VIPs enjoy a catered lunch, complimentary beer and wine, guaranteed Meet & Greets, exclusive swag, and front-of-theline access to everything the festival has to offer.

There will be a Food Truck Rodeo with a mouthwatering lineup of local favorites serving up everything from savory bites to sweet treats. With dozens of diverse food trucks in one central area, there’s something delicious for every taste and WWW.YESWEEKLY.COM

craving. There will also be a beer garden with beer from local breweries.

The weekend ends with a Pride Weekend Worship Service at College Place United Methodist Church, located at 509 Tate St., on Sunday, Sept. 13. Service begins at 11 a.m. with lunch to follow.

For more information about the festival, visit www.greensboropride.org. !

SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026 YES! WEEKLY

9

hot pour

photos [FACES & PLACES]

VISIT YESWEEKLY.COM/GALLERIES TO SEE MORE PHOTOS!

PRESENTS

[BARTENDER OF THE WEEK COMPILED BY NATALIE GARCIA] Check out videos on our Facebook!

NAME: Gabriel Buchanan BAR: The Podium in High Point AGE: 23 WHERE ARE YOU FROM? High Point HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN BARTENDING? 2.5 years HOW DID YOU BECOME A BARTENDER? Someone asked me if I had ever thought about bartending. I wasn’t old enough at the time, so she hired me as a barback until I was of age.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT BARTENDING? 100% meeting new people and experimenting with making new cocktails.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF BARTENDING? Flair/finesse while bartending.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DRINK TO MAKE? New York sour, a whiskey sour made with bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup, topped with a float of red wine.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DRINK TO DRINK? Gin and tonic, a simple mix of gin and tonic water, usually served over ice with lime.

WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND AS AN AFTER-DINNER DRINK? An amaretto sour, made with amaretto liqueur, lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness, sometimes topped with a cherry or foam.

10 YES! WEEKLY

Bitters Social House 3 Year Anniversary Celebration 8.30.26 | Greensboro | Photos by Natalie Garcia

WHAT’S THE STRANGEST DRINK REQUEST YOU’VE HAD? A margarita with rum instead of tequila.

WHAT’S THE CRAZIEST THING YOU’VE SEEN WHILE BARTENDING? I would say the first drag show I worked would be the craziest. We were opening bottles of bubbly nonstop, along with some fun banter, and the whole time we were getting to see these amazing moments of choreography that eventually led to one of the queens doing a split on the bar. Easily one of the most fun and memorable times I’ve had.

WHAT’S THE WEIRDEST THING YOU’VE FOUND IN A BAR BATHROOM? A vape in the urinal and a honey pack.

WHAT’S THE BEST/BIGGEST TIP YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN? $200 from a nice couple.

WANNA BE FEATURED IN HOT POUR?

Email Natalie Garcia at natalie@yesweekly.com and ask about being our Bartender of the Week!

Savor High Point

8.29.26 | High Point | Photos by Natalie Garcia SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026

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tunes

HEAR IT!

H

Staring down Hopscotch 16

appy Labor Day weekend, Triad music lovers! It’s that time of year when I chase away the end-of-summer bummers with a look at the upcoming Hopscotch Music Festival, returning to downtown Raleigh Sept. 1012, for a strange and bittersweet 16th year.

Katei Cranford Rumor mills and operative shakeups aside, Hopscotch is still the most fun weekend in North Contributor Carolina — and in a similar approach to the N.C. Folk Festival, following its own transition in leadership last year, local talent looms large across a landscape of smaller footprints (and the return of single-day passes).

Stripped down to six club venues and the single exterior City Plaza main stage, there’s a certain return to form, drawing back to the hoppable downtown core (aka no trekking out to Transfer Food Hall, though I’ll always miss the Cameron Art Museum as a far-out venue space).

While it’s no longer a headliner arena, Moore Square hasn’t entirely exited the operation. “Hopscotch has always been about moore than just the artists on the lineup,” organizers said, in a puntastic push for their new “Moore Square Commons” concept — “a free and welcoming family-friendly space to celebrate everything that makes Raleigh, Raleigh.”

“Instead of rushing between shows, you’ll have a space to slow down, meet friends, grab a drink in our beer garden, browse our local vendor market, and discover musicians from across the Triangle.”

Slower, smaller. Honing in on the elements of discovery with a less frenzied hop in a day party in the park setting, the music remains. Thursday will host Jack the Songman, Entrez Vous, Georgie Moon and the Wrong Band; Friday will feature Churchyard Ghost, Amelia Rigga, Anne-Clair ÄLÄGATOR, and T. Gold. Meanwhile, Saturday starts with a round of kid-friendly tunes from Farmer Eno, Ricochet Chicken, and Horse Deniers, as part of the returning Totscotch, “Hopscotch’s familyfriendly event, featuring kid-focused activities, interactive entertainment, creative play, and plenty of space for young festivalgoers to explore,” presented by the adjacent Marbles Kids Museum. No One Mind, Bass Battery, and Mellow Swells will keep the tunes going into the afternoon.

Getting back to the clubs, in proper “hometown hero” fashion, Triad fans can catch a handful of homies around the night shows.

Greensboro’s sunshower will kick off a slightly Hot Topic’d lineup at the Pour House on Thursday with MAKE, Jooselord, Soul Glo and Kylesa. Kill the Buddha opens Friday’s Neptunes show, followed by Dowsers (aka the latest Magic Tuber Stringband project), WWW.YESWEEKLY.COM

Thomas Dollbaum (the Louisiana-based alt-country heartlander will also be at Gas Hill Drinking Room in Winston-Salem on Sept. 12, performing his new album “Birds of Paradise,” out on Dear Life Record that features accompaniments by N.C.’s latest favorite son, MJ Lenderman), and capped-off by the Triangle indie stalwarts in Truth Club. On Saturday, bedrumor leads the Pour House’s alt-indie showcase, headlined by Chicago’s Horsegirl; and over at Lincoln Theater, Winstonreared Sonny Miles will be in the sweet spot Saturday night, right in between the various experimental and ethereal-twinged string sensations of Setting and Okonski.

As is tradition, Triad homies abound at the various Day Parties that span the festival weekend — from Wednesday night kickoffs to the hangover sets on Sunday afternoon. No wristbands required, often with free food, swag, and other treats — Day Parties have truthfully been my favorite element of Hopscotch for several years now.

It makes sense, then, that I’m obliged to push the party I’ve put together through the N.C. Museum of Art, Winston-Salem for a second year: “Southern Idiom, Expanded,” Saturday at the Pour House. Expanding on the museum’s Southern Idiom series aimed at showcasing Winston-Salem artists in tandem with those from around the southeast, the party will pair the Winston-based alt-rock “iPhone grief project,” Saturn is Changing, with Durham’s Mellow Swells; a full-band debut of Raleigh’s Sintead, the new era post-punk from N.C.’s COGS; Charlotte’s post-core Pretty Baby, and The Treasury — the RVA-by-way-of-Raleigh darkwave treasure from Troy Hancock (Essex Muro, Wool). … oh, and with a whole bunch of Biscuitville to boot (Triad, represent, y’all).

Looking back and forward at once, several of the 2025 Southern Idiom, Expanded artists (Kill the Buddha, RIBS, and Shagwüf) have returned to Hopscotch in one way or another — though they’re hardly the only NCMA W-S concert alumni playing the festival this year. Fake Jr. will be at Crank Arm’s Day Party on Friday; Azul will open the Pour House’s Friday night club show — which will be closed out by the stellar Charlottians in Cosmic Collective. Speaking of favorite Charlotte groups, Patois Counselors will kick things off

at Kings on Thursday night, on a bill that culminates with the Messethetics (one of the finest bands I’ve ever had the pleasure to book. Yes. I am bragging. They rule).

RIBS, meanwhile, will make a couple Day Party appearances of the traditional variety — including the Annual Ritual of Summoning presented by Three Lobed Recordings, Smashed Plastic, and WXDU on Friday at Kings (which will also feature an appearance from the Greensboro sonic outlier, Maps). On Saturday, RIBS heads over to Schoolkids Records for the Wake Forest Listening Room showcase. WFLR will also host a rock ‘n’ roll party on Thursday at Slims; Jack the Radio will present Slims Saturday party featuring Winston-Salem’s Crenshaw Pentecostal.

In a year with so many changes, it’s good to know the Hopscotch tradition of packing punks, sardinestyle, into Slims carries-on for both Friday and Saturday nights, with Shagwüf opening that blessed/ cursed hallway space on a helluva Friday bill featuring BANGZZ, Choncy and Landowner (one of the best groups I’ve seen this year). On Saturday, the Treasury will pop over from the afternoon Pour House party to start the night in a sweaty riot of New Orleans and NYC freaks (Steef, D. Sablu, and Miranda and the Beat).

Slims during the day is a whole different animal — a Sleepy Cat, specifically — on Friday for the Sleepy Cat Record’s Day Party with NCMA W-S alums Blue Cactus and Lonnie Walker. And thinking about Lonnie Walker leads me to thinking about just how much of a different animal Hopscotch itself has become.

As the years roll on, both the hits and heartbreaks keep coming. Crowmeat Bob’s dearly missed parking deck cacophony doesn’t seem in the cards this year, (though fans of orchestral chaos might enjoy the N.C. In C Presents: Terry Riley’s “In C”). Getting to the humans behind Hopscotch, I’m still expecting to run into Ray (Lonnie Walker’s drummer, merchmaster supreme, and damn fine fellow, who left this earth in 2025). I likewise legitimately wonder how I’ll make it through the weekend without the biscuits and bands brought together by Churchkey Records and The Layabout’s annual ¡Que Viva! party — a highlight of every single Hopscotch thus far — thanks in part to Churchkey cofounder “Mississippi Steve” Jones, who we lost earlier this year.

With my heart out to those who miss him most, I’ll take a cue from the Churchkey post that announced his passing: “Take care of each other, do what you can to create community, and sustain the communities that you’re a part of. We’re all we’ve got.”

And in that light, I look forward to sharing my favorite weekend in North Carolina music. See y’all at Hopscotch. <3 !

KATEI CRANFORD is a Triad music nerd who enjoys spotlighting artists and events.

SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026 YES! WEEKLY

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feature

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Public defender jailed by judge

ast week, Guilford District Court Judge Ashley Watlington-Simms sentenced Assistant Public Defender Juan Zuluaga to five days in jail for Ian McDowell criminal contempt.

The incident occurred during an Contributor Aug. 24 hearing at the High Point courthouse.

In her order, Watlington-Simms described Zuluaga as having “refused to accept the ruling of the court and engaged in disrespectful outbursts and arguments.” She also wrote that “counsel was given at least 4-5 opportunities to cease his contemptuous conduct and remove himself from the courtroom which he refused to do.”

After three days in the High Point Detention Center, Zuluaga was released Aug. 26 on a $500 unsecured bond.

This followed a hearing at which attorneys from the firm Nixon, Doerman and Edwards filed an appeal before Superior Court Judge Jason E. Ramey.

“I will not get into the facts of this matter other than to say that I was trying to stand up for my client,” wrote Zuluaga in an Aug. 28 Facebook post.

“The matter is up on appeal, and the hearing will be in October.”

On Aug. 28, Preston Edwards, partner and CFO of Nixon, Doermann, and Edwards, issued the following press statement on behalf of his client.

“Juan Zuluaga has dedicated his life and career to public service. Mr. Zuluaga, a public defender with the Guilford County Public Defender’s Office, served 29 years in the United States Army. He served 17 years as an enlisted infantryman. His service included time with the 3rd Infantry Division, 82nd Airborne,

the Florida National Guard, and the North Carolina National Guard, where he deployed to Iraq as an infantry team leader. He was then commissioned as an officer in 2008 and again deployed as a platoon leader in an Armor Company attached to the 30th Heavy Separate Brigade of the North Carolina National Guard. Finally, he was appointed as an Assistant Judge Advocate General until he was medically retired as a fully disabled veteran.

“He began his legal career in private practice in 2005 but quickly moved to the public defender’s office in 2010. He has served our community as a public defender since that time. In a career spanning 21 years, Mr. Zuluaga has been a steadfast and zealous advocate for his clients. Mr. Zuluaga is a father of four children, one of whom is in heaven, and lives with his children and his wife, Erika, in Winston-Salem, N.C. “On Aug. 24, 2026, he was charged and convicted of criminal contempt in

a summary contempt proceeding by Judge Ashley Watlington-Simms. In this hearing, the judge is the accuser, the judge, and the jury.

“While the rules of professional conduct which bind all licensed attorneys prohibit speaking on the specific merits of the case, Mr. Zuluaga does refute the allegations and intends to defend himself in court. We look forward to proving his innocence and ensuring that the right for defendants to have zealous advocates in court is not infringed by fear of incarceration.”

The High Point Courthouse docket indicates that, on Aug. 24, Zuluaga defended four different clients, but not which one he was representing when cited for contempt or what ruling by Watlington-Simms he objected to.

Watlington-Simms has been previously condemned by journalist organizations, local and statewide editorial writers, and national press freedom advocacy groups for a 2023 incident

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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.

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Judge Ashley Watlington-Simms

Public Defender Juan Zuluaga

in which she ordered a bailiff to seize a notebook belonging to journalist Kenwyn Caranna.

Then a reporter for the News & Record, Caranna was attending an open hearing in Guilford County family court.

In a later affidavit, Caranna stated that no court official had ever told her she couldn’t take notes during proceedings.

When asked by Watlington-Simms why she was taking notes, Caranna identified herself as a journalist monitoring family court for a future story.

All North Carolina court proceedings, including those involving juveniles, are public unless closed by a judge.

Watlington-Simms closed court for only one of her nine cases that day, during which Caranna left the courtroom and returned only when it was reopened.

According to Caranna, upon learning she was a journalist, Watlington-Simms consulted with another judge, then ordered bailiffs to seize Caranna’s notes and issued an order barring the reporter from speaking publicly or writing about what she observed. During this time, Caranna was not allowed to call the News & Record or its attorneys.

The N.C. Journalist Shield Law explicitly bars judges from prohibiting or restricting publication or broadcast of “any matter occurring in open court.” Legal experts from the Poynter Institute and the Reporter’s Committee for Freedom of the Press have opined that Watlington-Simms also violated the Supreme Court’s prohibition against prior restraint by suppressing information from a news organization.

The Freedom of the Press Foundation has called the seizure and gag order “a severe and intolerable infringement on First Amendment rights.”

That seizure and gag order have

been condemned by N.C. journalists.

“We shouldn’t have to hire lawyers to defend us for doing our jobs,” wrote former Triad City Beat publisher Brian Clarey in a 2023 editorial. “And we expect judges, law enforcement and government agencies to be at least as knowledgeable about the First Amendment, and the protections enshrined therein, as we are.”

While Caranna no longer works for the News & Record, she and her former employer are appealing WatlingtonSimms’ ruling. Their attorney Mike Tadych recently petitioned the North Carolina Supreme Court to intervene.

The petition alleges that WatlingtonSimms has blocked attempts to effectively appeal her rulings on the seized notes and the gag order. A hearing in Guilford Superior Court is scheduled for Oct. 5. Details of the ongoing legal battle have been extensively reported

by The Assembly’s Michael Hewlett, most recently in the Aug. 5 article “Attorney Seeks Help From Higher Court in Getting Reporter’s Notes Back.”

In most states, when a commission recommends sanctioning a judge, the accusation becomes public. In North Carolina, the State Supreme Court can completely dismiss a commission’s recommendation in secret. Furthermore, private sanctions are permanently excluded from public records laws, meaning a judge can repeatedly face internal reprimands without voters ever knowing. !

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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.

SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026 YES! WEEKLY

13

Submissions should be sent to artdirector@yesweekly.com by Friday at 5 p.m., prior to the week’s publication.

Visit yesweekly.com and click on calendar to list your event online.

HOME GROWN MUSIC SCENE | Compiled by Shane Hart

FLAT IRON

CARBORRO

CAT’S CRADLE

300 E Main St | 919.967.9053 www.catscradle.com Sep 2: Myka Lace, Sam Thorn, Chris Chism, Eric Lee Hardt Sep 3: Will Slater & the 53, Jackson Slater and the Revelators Sep 4: Anne-Claire Sep 5: Schur Sep 8: Rum Jungle, Bee Million

GREENSBORO

CAROLINA THEATRE

310 S. Greene Street | 336.333.2605 www.carolinatheatre.com Sep 3: The Foreign Landers

221 Summit Ave | 336.501.3967 www.flatirongso.com Sep 2: Laurelyn Dossett Sep 5: Wolves x4, Killerantz and Oort Patrol Sep 9: Ordinary Elephant Sep 10: The Local Honeys w/ Grace Rogers Sep 12: Tyler Ramsey

RODY’S TAVERN

5105 Michaux Rd | 336.282.0950 www.facebook.com/rodystavern Sep 2: Brook McBride Sep 5: Wristband Sep 9: Grey Hyatt

HIGH POINT

COMEDY ZONE

1126 S Holden Rd | 336.333.1034 www.thecomedyzone.com Sep 3: Dan LaMorte Sep 4: Tee Sanders Sep 5-6: DC Young Fly

GOOFY FOOT TAPROOM 2762 NC-68 #109 | 336.307.2567 www.goofyfoottaproom.com Sep 5: Michael Chaney Sep 12: Beth Turner

RALEIGH

WINSTON-SALEM

CCU MUSIC PARK AT WALNUT CREEK

EARL’S

LINCOLN THEATRE

FIDDLIN’ FISH BREWING COMPANY

3801 Rock Quarry Rd | 919.821.4111 www.livenation.com Sep 4: Bryson Tiller Sep 6: Empire of the Sun Sep 9: The Hayley WIlliams SHow Sep 11: Staind 126 E. Cabarrus St | 919.831.6400 www.lincolntheatre.com Sep 3: Topoppgen Sep 4: Mostley Crue — A Tribute to Motley Crue Sep 5: Hipnotized Sep 10-11: Hopscotch Music Festival

RED HAT AMPHITHEATER 500 S McDowell St | 919.996.8800 www.redhatamphitheater.com Sep 5: Grupo Frontera Sep 11: Marcus King

121 West 9th Street | 336.448.0018 www.earlsws.com Sep 4: Kyle Kelly Sep 5: Fair Play Sep 11: County Line Collective Sep 12: Caleb Fogle Band

772 Trade St | 336.999.8945 www.fiddlinfish.com Sep 4: Jason Bunch Sep 11: Chants in the Void with Red Umber

FOOTHILLS BREWING

638 W 4th St | 336.777.3348 www.foothillsbrewing.com Sep 2: Colin Phillips Sep 4: Doobe & the Accomplices Sep 5: Raphael Graves Trio Sep 6: Michael Chaney

THIS WEEK WITH THE

HIGH point Rockers

9.8 - RUBY’S $2 TUESDAY & IRISH HERITAGE NIGHT

$2.00 HOTDOGS & $2.00 FOUNTAIN SOFT DRINKS! WEAR YOUR GREEN AND CELEBRATE IRISH HERITAGE THROUGHOUT THE EVENING

9.9 - EDUCATION DAY - 11:05 AM FIRST PITCH DAY GAME 11:05AM - EDUCATION DAY

9.10 - THIRSTY THURSDAY PRESENTED BY Q104.1 & UNITED WAY CAN-PAIGN NIGHT

DONATE 3 NON PERISHABLE FOOD ITEMSFOR THE UNITED WAY CAN-PAIGN AND RECIEVE FREE ADMISSION! $3.00 DOMESTIC DRAFT & $4.00 PREMIUM DRAFTS $5 FIDDLIN FISH SUMMER CATCH

9.11- FIREWORKS FRIDAY & FIRST RESPONDERS & VETERANS APPRECIATION NIGHT VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDER APPRECIATION - 4 FREE TICKETS WITH PROOF OF SERVICE POSTGAME FIREWORKS + AUTOGRAPHS ON THE FIELD

9.12 - FIREWORKS SATURDAY & ROCKERS TRAVEL MUG GIVEAWAY FROM SHEETZ THE FIRST 500 FANS RECEIVE A FREE ROCKERS TRAVEL MUG FROM SHEETZ !

STICK AROUND FOR SPECIAL POSTGAME FIREWORKS

9.13 - FAN APPRECIATION DAY

CELEBRATE THE BEST FANS IN BASEBALL AFTER ANOTHER UNFORGETTABLE SEASON AT TRUIST POINT KIDS RUN THE BASES POSTGAME + COMMEMORATIVE HIGH POINT ROCKERS POSTCARD AT GATES

14 YES! WEEKLY SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026

SCAN HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS HIGHPOINTROCKERS.COM | 336-888-1000

LAST CHANCE TO SEE YOUR HIGH POINT ROCKERS THIS SEASON!

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[SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You might feel confident about taking a promising offer, but continue to be alert for what you’re not being told about it. Don’t fret. Time is on your side!

[TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Your social life expands as new friends come into your life. But while you’re having fun, your practical side also sees some positive business potential within your new circle.

[SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) People dear to you might be planning a way to show appreciation for all that you’ve done for them. Accept the honor graciously. Remember, you deserve it.

[GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Your

[CAPRICORN (December 22 to

workplace situation continues to improve.

Look for advantages that you might’ve missed while all the changes were going on around you. A trusted colleague can help.

[CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Resist the urge to hunker down in your bunker until things ease up. Instead, get rid of a woe-isme attitude by getting up and getting out to meet old friends -- and make new ones!

[LEO (July 23 to August 22) Now that you’re back enjoying the spotlight again, you should feel reenergized and ready to take on the challenge of bringing your big, bold plans to completion.

[VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A former friend would like to repair a relationship that you two once enjoyed. Your positive response could have an equally positive impact on your life. Think about it.

[LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Resist making impulsive decisions. Stay on a steady course as you continue to work out workplace problems. Be patient. All will soon be back in balance.

January 19) Congratulations! Your self-confidence is on the rise. This could be a good time to tackle any bothersome situations that you’ve avoided both at home and at work.

[AQUARIUS (January 20 to February

18) You feel obligated to return a favor. (Of course, you do.) But heed advice from those closest to you and do nothing until you’re certain about what’s being asked of you.

[PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your loving reassurance helped revive a once-moribund relationship. But be wary of someone who might try to do something negative to reverse this positive turn of events.

by Fifi Rodriguez

[1. HISTORY: When did Labor Day

[6. GEOGRAPHY: What is the largest

[2. ANIMAL KINGDOM: Which animal

[7. MUSIC: What 1996 song by Los del

[3. MOVIES: What is the only inter-

[8. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who is the only

[4. LANGUAGE: What does the Latin

[9. SCIENCE: How many times does

[5. FOOD & DRINK: Which country is

[10. TELEVISION: What is Sponge-

become a federal holiday?

can hop from side to side but can’t walk forward or backward?

national (non-English) movie to date that has won the Best Picture Oscar? word “alibi” mean in English?

known for the soup called pho?

bay in the world?

Rio became an international dance phenomenon?

president to be elected unanimously by the Electoral College?

the average human blink per minute?

Bob’s pet named in the animated series “SpongeBob SquarePants?”

answer 6. Bay of Bengal.

7. “Macarena.”

8. George Washington.

9. 15 to 20 times.

10. Gary.

[ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A change that you hoped for is on its way. But you still need to be patient until more explanations are forthcoming. Continue to keep your enthusiasm in check.

[TRIVIA TEST]

1. 1894.

2. Kangaroo.

3. “Parasite,” 2019.

4. “Elsewhere.”

5. Vietnam.

STARS] last call [SALOME’S Week of September 7, 2026

© 2026 by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

[BORN THIS WEEK: You’re a wonderful matchmaker who can bring people together to form long-lasting relationships, whether they’re friendships or romantic affairs. © 2026 by King Features Syndicate

answers [CROSSWORD] crossword on page 6

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[WEEKLY SUDOKU] sudoku on page 6

SEPTEMBER 2-8, 2026 YES! WEEKLY

15

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