FOLKMOOT FESTIVAL 350 performers from more than ten countries celebrating culture heritage through dance HART PRESENTS CHICAGO and music. PAGE 5 the Musical PAGE 5

A talented local cast with amazing energy star in the Highland Acting Company’s productions of Godspell and Resurrectio. PAGE 8

Comic Legend Jake Johannsen & guests perform at the Diana Wortham Theatre as part of the Laugh Your Asheville Off Festival. PAGE 11

PLUS:

Explore Biltmore Village PAGES 19-21 Fun at the Colburn Museum PAGE 22 Jewelry Artist Chris Van Dyke PAGE 32 RAPID RIVER ARTS noteworthy

A Tapestry of Words The Art of Storytelling

he who tells the stories” her audience are caught in the were the words my mentor moment of the tale, the passion Over 11 Million Victims once used to describe me. of that moment – no matter its I can’t tell you how proud place on the timeline, is a given. of Identity Theft Last Year. I felt. You would have As a guide on both inter- thoughtS I had received the world’s national tours and local ones, I Source: Javelin Strategy & Research. “2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report.” February 2010. best compliment! Stories have know when I have forged a con- fascinated me since I first heard nection between my story and them. Even as a child, I marveled my audience. These are times Help Protect Yourself Today. at how some people had the abil- when I am sure the words com- ity to enchant with their speech, Brenda Seright ing from my lips are not mine as ENROLL TODAY AND GET: plaiting words into a tapestry of Williams much as those of whom I speak. 30 DAY RISK-FREE* TRIAL PROMO CODE: ID fine art. Now in my line of work, In these moments, there begins I still tell stories. a dance of sorts, a give and take measured The art of weaving words is ancient through the eyes. I am sometimes surprised CALL NOW: 1-888-252-5862 and multi-purpose. From early indigenous at the twists an often-told story takes, only peoples came a story heritage prior to the to find out that a listener was moved by *At the end of the 30-day free period your card will be billed automatically ($10.00 written word. Later the hidden secrets of words she needed to hear. On the other monthly/$110.00 annually) unless you cancel within the 30-day period. You can cancel esoteric wisdom were obscured within hand, I have had tour participants who avoid anytime without penalty by calling 1-800-LifeLock. Offer is for new LifeLock members only. stories to avoid persecution. In our present- eye contact. They look around at buildings day world, storytelling is usually thought of or even the ground, and words fall flat, with as purely entertainment, but I believe this no canvas on which to land. Storytelling is a is an injustice. Stories continue to direct, two-way street. inspire, and mesmerize scholars, both young Like any artist, whether there are those and old. In a way that written words and around to admire my work or not, the moving pictures cannot duplicate, the active stories still must flow. I don’t think I could art of listening to a story filled with emo- stop them even if I tried. There is a river, tion and timelessness fosters a give and take ancient and powerful, that flows through between speaker and listener that ignites a inspired words. The tale from which the kind of magic. It is an intimate exchange, river flows may seem simple, but there is al- not for those who shy away from personal ways depth beneath the surface. In the end, contact, who fear vulnerability. In the way I am only the storyteller and don’t pretend a painter pours his heart onto canvas, or a to understand the direction and force of the sculptor conveys passion into clay, from the river. Like a listener myself, I have learned storyteller’s mouth there flows a stream of to sit back, relax, and enjoy the magic. awareness as ancient as the riverbed from which it comes. An inspired storyteller is a conduit Brenda Seright Williams has led for the tale itself to reach across time and International tours for more than ten sometimes continents, take the listener by years. Her local tours include Herstory the hand, and lead him into the moment. Asheville: Women’s History Tour, About She is a shapeshifter, moving effortlessly Biltmore Village: Historical Walking back and forth between past, present, and Tour, and Grove House Ghost Tours. Visit future, without change of intensity or loss www.herstoryasheville.com or call (828) of sensory perception. There is no need to 423-3819 for more information on all of overdramatize. When the storyteller and Brenda’s tours.

STORIES ON ASHEVILLE’S FRONT PORCH Stories for all ages Will he lift his guitar and begin with a will be celebrated, song or will the words of the mountains shared and preserved spill out as he begins to weave a story on July 3. Come and of enchantment? Michael, an award be enchanted by an winning song writer and recording art form as old as artist, will be contributing to the sum- our mountains and mer series, held on the Reuter Terrace Michael Reno Harrell as indigenous to our stage of Pack Square Park, July 3 from culture as the air we breathe. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free and open to the Michael Reno Harrell of Yancy public. For more information visit www. County silences a room when he enters. packsquarepark.org.

2 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 3 RAPID RIVER ARTS we love this place Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance Returns to the Gutter with RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Bowlathon 2010! Established in 1997 • Volume Thirteen, Number Eleven When was the last time you bowled in a pirate costume to live music while raising money for a local non- profit? If it’s been at least a year, then it’s time to JULY 2010 2 Noteworthy gather your team for Terpsicorps’ Bowlathon 2010! www.rapidrivermagazine.com The Art of Storytelling...... 2 Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance, Asheville’s professional Swannanoa Shindigs...... 18 contemporary ballet company, has been holding an an- Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray International Festival Day ...... 38 nual bowlathon every year since 2004, and it gets bigger Managing Editor: Beth Gossett and better with each strike! Colburn Earth Science Museum . . .22 Marketing: Dennis Ray Interested? Get together a group of your friends and sign up on the bowlathon website, http://bowl. Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray terpsicorps.org. Each team member then uses the Layout & Design: Simone Bouyer 5 Performance website to send emails to their friends asking them to Book Editor: Cauley Bennett “Chicago” the Musical ...... 5 make a pledge per game, point or strike (3 games are Folkmoot USA ...... 5 played). You don’t have to ask anyone in person and Poetry Editor: Ted Olson you can send requests to everyone you know. Last Accounting: Sharon Cole Laugh Your Asheville Off ...... 10 year, the company added a costume element to the mix, so your next task is to come up with a Distribution: Dennis Ray team theme and get ready for the costume challenge. There are prizes for most money raised, best costumes, most points per team, and best individual bowler. Money raised will benefit 7 Stage Preview Terpsicorps’ Dream Project, an evening of dance inspired by the subconscious thoughts of the CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: SART presents Two Plays ...... 7 Asheville community. A series of short works interpreting what goes on in the minds of your John Anderson, Tim “T-Bone” Arem, Highland Theatre’s Godspell ...... 8 neighbors as they sleep, these dances will grant us a peek at the unbridled imaginations of those Byron Belzak, Cauley Bennett, we see on the street everyday. ACT presents Noises Off ...... 9 Greg Brown, James Cassara, Terpsicorps’ Bowlathon 2010 will be held July 18, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Star Lanes, 491 Ke- Michael Cole, Lynn Daniels, nilworth Road in Asheville. To sign up visit bowl.terpsicorps.org. For more information call Kathleen O. Davis, Philip DeAngelo, (828) 252-6342. The Dream Project – August 12-14, 8:00 p.m., Diana Wortham Theatre, Pack 12 Columns Place, Asheville. $30/25 students and seniors. To purchase Amy Downs, John Ellis, Ted Olson - Poetry ...... 12 tickets, call (828) 257-4530 or visit www.dwtheatre.com. Amy Ammons Garza, Charlie Gerencer, Book Reviews by Cauley Bennett, Beth Gossett, Max Hammonds, MD, On Friday, July 30 an art opening will be held from 5 to 8 Chip Kaufmann ...... 13-14 Phil Hawkins, Janna Hoekema, p.m. at Studio 103 Fine Art Gallery. Rebecca D’Angelo will Bill Walz - Artful Living ...... 15 Harmony Johnson, Phil Juliano, display mixed media and images from the series “Celebra- 16 tion” photographed during her tenure as the Washington Post Chip Kaufmann, Michelle Keenan, James Cassara - Music ...... society photographer. Studio 103 is located at 103 West St. in Sarah Larson, Peter Loewer, Peter Loewer - Thoreau’s Garden . 27 Black Mountain. Call (828) 357-8327 or visit www.studio- Heather Maloy, Kay S. Miller, Greg Vineyard - Fine Art ...... 28 103fineartgallery.com for details. Rob Miller, April Nance, Joe Zinich - Beer ...... 29 Ted Olson, Michael Parker, Michael Parker - Wine ...... 31 Joseph Rathbone, Dennis Ray, Joseph Rathbone - Youth Culture . 35 John Russell, Clara Sofia, Max Hammonds, MD - Health . . 39 Megan Stone, Paul Thorpe, Greg Vineyard, David Voorhees, Bill Walz, Brenda Seright Williams, 17 Music Joe Zinich. Chris Schutz & the Tourists . . . . . 17 Advertising Sales Representatives INFO Rapid River Art Magazine is a free monthly 21 Fine Art Rapid River Magazine is Seeking Experienced Sales Personnel publication. Address correspondence to: Village Art and Craft Fair...... 21 Help us promote local arts, organizations, and businesses. Great for retirees [email protected] or write to: of the South? ...... 30 needing extra income. Set your own hours – potential earnings are up to you! Rapid River Art Magazine Chris Van Dyke ...... 32 Some experience necessary. Seniors are encouraged to apply. 85 N. Main St. Southern Highlands Craft Fair . . . . .33 Canton, NC 28716 INTERESTED? Call (828) 646-0071, or e-mail [email protected] Phone: (828) 646-0071 www.rapidrivermagazine.com 23 Movie Reviews All materials contained herein are owned and copyrighted by Rapid River Art Magazine and the individual contributors 19 Biltmore Village unless otherwise stated. Opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily corre- spond with the opinions of Rapid River Art 34 Culture for Kids Magazine or the advertisers found herein. The Clown in All of Us...... 34 © Rapid River Magazine, A Few Good Books ...... 34 July 2010 Vol. 13 No. 11 ™ About the Cover: 36 What to Do Guide Dancers from . Folkmoot USA is a two week Best in Show by Phil Juliano . . . . . 37 festival held in eleven counties across Western Callie & Cats by Amy Downs . . . . 37 North Carolina from July 22 through August 1, 2010. 37 It features performances, parades, and workshops Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins . . . . by more than 350 performers. Tickets are on Dragin by Michael Cole ...... 37 sale now and may be purchased online at www. folkmootusa.org or by calling the Folkmoot ticket office at (828) 452-2997.

Distributed at more than 390 locations throughout eight counties in WNC and South Carolina

4 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE a world of entertainment

“Chicago” the Musical BY CORD SCOTT at Haywood Arts Regional Theatre Needless to say, CHICAGO the musical, is sure to be a hit at Haywood Arts n May 9 and 10 a group of 60 rehearsal began at 6:30 p.m. and lasted Regional Theatre. Just remember, when individuals came to Haywood Arts until 11 p.m., sometimes later. With each you are sitting in the audience enjoying the Regional Theatre to audition for day came an hour and a half work out, grandeur, don’t forget, it wasn’t like that the Broadway smash, CHICAGO. focusing on core strength and stamina. yesterday. After singing and dancing their Then the next hours were spent learning The Haywood Arts Regional Theatre is O one of the first regional theatres in the coun- hearts out, Steve Lloyd, director, Chuck and repeating choreography, over and over Taft, musical director, and myself, Cord and over and over and….well, you get the try to be granted the rights to the smash hit Scott, choreographer, sat down to make one point. This was the routine for four weeks, “Chicago,” which opens July 9. of the toughest casting decisions that I know and with pain, sickness, pulled muscles, has ever had to be made. twisted ankles, and many When all was said and other bumps and bruises IF “Chicago” will have done 27 elite performers we made it through. performances July 9, 10 15, made the cut. Julie Kinter as The real job came YOU GO 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 30, 31 at 7:30 the infamous Velma Kelly, in with me as the cho- and July 11, 18, 25 and August Candice Dickinson as cute reographer. With every 1 at 3pm. Tickets are $22 for and bubbly Roxie Hart. number I tried to capture Julie Kinter and Candice Dickinson. Adults, $20 for Seniors, Student/child Carrying them is Jeff Bachar the essence of Bob Fosse, $10 with special $5 Student discount tickets as the ever so charming the original choreographer the lack of mirrors, which they had gotten for Thursday and Sunday performances. Billy Flynn and a very special of CHICAGO. Every step used to being able to look at themselves. For tickets and more information call the surprise as Matron Mama has to be perfect and precise. The principles however had a much easier Box Office at (828) 456-6322, Monday Morton. With the cast in place However, keeping track of time transitioning. But, I expected nothing through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Or visit the show was sure to be a 16 out of 20 show-stopping less than what happened. Everything usually www.harttheatre.com. All performances are success, right? Most audiences numbers can be extremely does fall apart, and people start getting testy at the Performing Arts Center at the Shelton members do not see the next difficult, thus the assignment with one another. I suppose that’s what hap- House, 250 Pigeon St. Waynesville, NC 8 weeks of rehearsal. Eight of Dance Captains. When pens when you spend 5 hours a day 4 days a weeks that become a roller- selecting a dance captain, week with people. But its all in good fun. coaster of emotion and a true I took into consideration Rehearsals are almost finished and soon test of physical endurance. Candice Dickinson and personality, accuracy, and there will be an audience. However, I know, On May 17, all of the cast Jeff Bachar as Roxie Hart overall leadership skills as with all shows, Tech week will be nothing met to have a typical read- and Billy Flinn. and ultimately chose Ricky less than interesting. The show will fall to the through to capture the es- Sanford and Lora Kole. And ground and everyone will be extraordinarily sence and flow of the musical. Little did 16 honestly, their role became just as huge as nervous as to know whether or not the show of them realize that the next 4 weeks would mine, Steve’s, and Chuck’s. will work out. But rest assured, it will and be painstakingly brutal on there bodies and At the conclusion of choreography always does. That is why we work so hard, minds. rehearsals, we finally had the opportunity to to put together a great show where its almost The following day, 16 cast members met move onto the stage, which is when every- like we have been doing it for a lifetime. No and began working on what CHICAGO is thing fell completely apart. Dancers didn’t one knows the intricacies involved, the disas- all about, DANCE! However, we did not know where they were supposed to be when ter that occurs literally the day before the first just walk in learn the choreography. Each they were supposed to be, mainly because of audience takes their seats.

Types of Folk Dance Folkmoot USA English country-dance, international folk dance, Irish dance, Maypole Festival Brings World of Folk Dancing dance, Morris dance, Nordic pol- to the Mountains ska dance, Ball de bastons, square dance, and sword dance. Sword or executive director of Folkmoot BY DENNIS RAY dances include Longsword dances USA, Karen Babcock, there’s no and rapper dancing. better place to live than Western North Carolina. She moved here a art of creating sculptures in the medium of Some choreographed dances such clipped trees and shrubs. as contra dance, Israeli folk dance, year and a half ago from Maryland to Fexperience life in the beautiful Blue Ridge “I’d fallen in love with western North Scottish country-dance, and modern Carolina years before,” she says, “and I was Western square dance, are called Mountains and discovered much more. folk dances, though this is not true “There is so much arts and culture in looking to eventually move here. A friend of in the strictest sense. the area it is truly amazing,” she says. “The mine said that Folkmoot was looking for a people here not only want to share their cul- new director and that it might be something Country-dance overlaps with con- ture but want to learn about other’s as well.” I should check out.” temporary folk dance and ballroom Before moving here she was the associ- Not particularly sold on the idea of dance. Most country-dances and ate director of the Ladew Topiary Gardens working for a non-profit in a town of 10,000 ballroom dances originated from she looked into it anyway. folk dances, with gradual refinement in Monkton Maryland. The Ladew Topiary over the years. Gardens is known around the world for its topiary and flower gardens. Topiary is the Continued on page 9

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 5 6 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE stage preview

Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre presents Enter Jim “T” Thomas, BY ROB MILLER chairman of the Fine Arts Divi- Tuesdays With Morrie sion of MHC, superb teacher, actor and director extraordinaire, to Mars Hill from Asheville and and As You Like It Thomas ignited the powerhouse surrounding areas. known as the Southern Ap- In the summer of 2001 Bill wo plays at the Southern Appala- notes, wit and satire, palachian Repertory Theatre. Gregg became artistic director. chian Repertory Theatre (SART) slapstick and passion. In his capable hands, C. Robert A SART veteran both on stage will contrast the present with the Directed by SART Jones, Earl Leininger, Bill Gregg, and off, a Mars Hill College past with a contemporary play, Artistic Director Bill Dewitt Tipton, some students, alum, and the company’s first Tuesdays With Morrie, and a Gregg, the play is set in recent alumni, and a well-trained stage manager in 1975, Gregg WilliamT Shakespeare play, As You Like Western North Carolina Jade was hand-picked to succeed crew, SART took shape and took Bill Gregg, SART Day-Burdett It. Both plays will showcase some SART and the Asheville envi- off. Its mission: To present the Artistic Director Jim Thomas as SART’s second favorite actors and Tuesdays With Mor- rons in the time period highest quality professional pro- since 2001. artistic director. rie will feature the return of Jim Thomas, of 1895-1905. Justin ductions, with a special emphasis 2010 begins the 36th the Founder of SART and former Mars Phaneuf and Rebecca on “plays concerning Appalachia that portray season of SART, and also marks another Hill College faculty member, as direc- Phippard, alumni of the rich culture and heritage of its people.” anniversary, the 10th year that Bill Gregg tor. Thomas’ last production at SART was Mars Hill College and Over the following three decades, SART has been Artistic Director with SART. Driving Miss Daisy in 2006. SART, are returning has not only met its goals and fulfilled its Congratulations Bill! Tuesdays With Morrie by Jeffrey for roles in the produc- mission, it has far surpassed the original Hatcher and Mitch Albom, was inspired tion and will be joined hopes of its founders. SART celebrates its by Albom’s best-selling book of the same by SART regulars and 30 years of professional theatre as a company IF SART presents Tuesdays title. Albom wrote autobiographically about favorites Bradshaw Call that attracts actors, directors, playwrights, with Morrie, July 7-18, a career-absorbed journalist who visits his and Michael Mattison. A Bradshaw Call YOU and technical professionals from all over the GO and As You Like It, July retired college professor and the two discuss handful of current Mars country. Each summer theatre profession- 21 - August 1. Tickets are basic truths about living, dying and what it Hill College theater arts als fly in from New York, Florida, Iowa, available by calling the SART means to love. students round out the Mississippi; they drive up from Charlotte, box office at (828) 689-1239 or visiting cast, including Jade Day- Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Minneapolis and www.SARTplays.org. Additional group Burdett, who plays the Chicago; and locally based professionals flock discounts are offered. lead role of Rosalind. Produced by Beverly & Dan Lun- sford and Gasperson Moving & Storage and The Furniture Market, Ben Starr Tuesdays With Morrie Coates is rated PG-13 and will run July 7-18 with an Opening Night Recep- tion on July 8. As You Like It is rated PG and Chris Allison as MItch, and Earl Leininger star in Tuesdays With Morrie. will run July 21 - Au- gust 1 with an Opening Earl Leininger, a perennial SART Night Reception on favorite, is returning for the role of the July 22. college professor. Retired after nearly 40 In August SART years in higher education as a professor will present the new Michael of philosophy and religion and as a chief comedy Tradin’ Paint Mattison academic officer at Mars Hill College and (August 4-22). Indi- Gardner-Webb University, his avocation vidual tickets run $10-$30 depending on the and passion has been the theater. Among performance. All performances are held in his crowd-pleasing SART roles are that of the historic Owen Theatre on the campus of Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof, Atticus Finch Mars Hill College, Mars Hill NC. in To Kill A Mockingbird and King Arthur in Camelot. Chris Allison, who plays the role of SART’S HISTORY Mitch, the author, has returned for his 12th It was 1975, and the Madison County season at SART. This role follows a lead role Bicentennial Committee was developing in The Foreigner, the comedy that opened plans to celebrate the nation’s birth. The the SART season. Last year he appeared as Mars Hill College Theatre Department Biff in Death of a Salesman and he has ap- was seeking ways to put the knowledge and peared in many other roles at SART. experience of its faculty and students to use The Shakespeare production, As You beyond the school year. Western North Like It, is the first undertaking of Shake- Carolina had long been fertile ground for speare for SART. This pastoral comedy the theatre arts, and audiences were showing involves some of Shakespeare’s most increasing interest in their own history and memorable characters in discord-turned heritage. All the elements were in place; all harmony in this playful story of mixed that was needed was a spark to fire them up. identities and disguises, romance and love

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 7 RAPID RIVER ARTS performance

The Highland Acting Company presents Godspell and Resurrectio

hese musicals will be performed the weekend prior to Bele Chere on July 17-18 and then again on Bele Chere weekend TJuly 24-25. Godspell has enter- tained audiences the world over for decades. May 17, 2011 will mark its 40th anniversary. Godspell was conceived and originally directed by John Michael Tebelak. One of the big- gest off-Broadway and Broadway successes of all time, Godspell is based primarily on the Gospel according to St. Matthew. Featuring a spar- School of Life and Art to pass along their kling musical score by Stephen Schwartz, talents to young and old alike in the Ashe- Godspell boasts a string of recognizable ville area. McCready recalls as a young girl songs, led by the international hit, “Day By that she always wanted to dance, sing, and Day.” The show opened in 1971 off-Broad- act but classes were simply too expensive. way moving to Broadway in 1976. It ran for She decided classes should be affordable 2,124 performances off-Broadway and 527 and available to all ages, and decided to offer on Broadway. group classes for just $5 per person. Classes Sherri McCready, director of the are offered in dance, drama, sewing, guitar, Asheville-based Highland Acting Company drawing, video editing, website design, cake introduced Resurrectio as a short separate decorating, and much more. For more infor- musical to follow Godspell in April 2009. mation visit www.ElevateLifeAndArt.com. Both musicals have now been presented 16 Godspell and Resurrectio feature a tal- times to over 5,000 people. Twelve of those ented local cast singing, dancing, and acting performances were at the Orange Peel. The with amazing energy for 3 hours including company traveled last year to Charlotte, NC the intermission. and this past March to the historic Orpheum Theatre in Wichita, KS where more than 1,600 people took in the two weekend shows. In just two short years Highland Act- IF Godspell and Resurrectio at Asheville’s Orange Peel. ing Company has clearly left a mark on YOU Shows: Friday, July 17 at 2:30 Asheville! Several dozen local performing GO and 7:30 p.m., Sunday, July 18 and visual artists assembled to launch the at 7:00 p.m., Friday, July 24 at companies four-show run in April, 2009. 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, July Following the initial weekend with sold-out 25 at 3:00 p.m. All tickets are $15 and can shows, another four shows were added in be purchased online at www.theorangepeel. June, 2009. net or in person at the Orange Peel box These local artists were stirred to do office, or by phone at 1-866-468-7630. more than just a Broadway musical. In For more information, please visit www. October, 2009 they launched the Elevate highlandactingcompany.com

ASHEVILLE CONTEMPORARY DANCE THEATRE Summer Hip Hop and Jazz Dance Camp for early, 10 boys maximum. Call (828) 254-2621 Girls age 7-12. July 12 - July 16. Prices vary. for more details or to register. Contact Brandi Hand at brandihand@gmail. Girls Happening 2010 with Susan and Giles com or call (828) 707-4178 to register or for Collard and Fleta Monaghan. August 2-9, and more information. August 9-13. Drawing, dancing, exploring Creative Movement Summer Camp for Chil- new and exotic foods, sewing, performances, dren age 10 and under. July 26 - 30. Tuition theatre, storytelling, and painting, all with the from $90 to $120. For more information teacher of your choice. This program is free and/or to register contact Norianna at norid- for the committed. Contact Susan or Giles [email protected]. Collard at (828) 254-2137 to register or for Summer Camp for Boys. Young Roman more information. Legionaires, Carthaginians, and Gladiators Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre under the direction of Giles Collard. July 14-25 for boys age 7-11. Prices vary. Register 20 Commerce Street, Asheville

8 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE performance

‘Folkmoot’ continued from page 5 The name Folkmoot or folkmote originated in Anglo-Saxon from presents “I couldn’t believe it,” she adds. “Here the Old English word folkmot meaning: A ACT Noises Off was this huge cultural event, something general assembly of the people of a town, oises Off, called the “Funniest you would expect to see in DC or Atlanta, district, or shire in medieval England. And BY JANNA HOEKEMA maybe Charlotte but never in a small town it is a name that perfectly fits this unique farce ever written,” depicts the so far away from any major metropolitan.” mountain event. onstage and backstage antics of and I’m confident Folkmoot USA attracts well over The term “Folk Dancing” is a type of a fifth-rate acting troupe tour- that audiences will 100,000 visitors to Western North Caro- dance usually applied to those of historical ing in an awful sex farce called N leave this show lina and brings in $4 million dollars. It is importance in European culture and history. Nothing On. impressed and also one of two Most were origi- The curtain opens on the dress re- laughing!” international folk nated before the hearsal of the first act of Nothing On the ACT is run- festivals in the 20th century. A night before it’s set to open with things ning a buy two, US and is listed as number of mod- not going well. The second act shows us get two free spe- “One of the Top ern ballroom what’s happening backstage during the cial for the opening weekend, Friday, July 2, 20 Events in the dances originated first act of Nothing On after the show and Saturday, July 3. Patrons need to call or Southeast” by the from folk ones. has been running for a month. The third stop by the box office to take advantage of Southeast Tour- It all began act takes us back to the first act of Noth- this promotion and use the code “FARCE.” ism Society. for Folkmoot ing On yet again, after two months of “Folkmoot USA in 1973 touring. It is, deliciously so, a disaster! is huge in many when a Waynes- “Michael Frayn really crafted a piece ways but very ville surgeon, Dr. of work with Noises Off,” says director IF Noises Off, written by small in others,” Clinton Border, Josh Batenhorst, who also directed ACT’s YOU Michael Frayn, directed she adds. “We’ve accompanied The Santaland Diaries. “The play is very by Josh Batenhorst. ACT tight. It requires a fast-paced, frenetic GO got a year ‘round Dancers from Mexico perform during Folkmoot. a local square Mainstage July 2-18. Fridays & staff of just three dance team to a energy. I’m excited about the cast that Saturdays, 7:30 p.m., Sundays people, 56 part time employees — most folk festival in Sidmouth, England. Border, we’ve brought together for this play. at 2:30 p.m. No show July 4. Tickets: $22 of whom work only the two-week festival convinced Western North Carolina which They are one of the most talented groups adults; $19 seniors and students, available — and over 400 volunteers that make this was already steeped in tradition and dedi- of eighteen legs I’ve ever put together. online at www.ashevilletheatre.org or by event happen each year. It’s a lot of dedi- cated to the preservation of its own heritage, Our entire crew is working very hard calling (828) 254-1320. cated people working very hard.” would be a perfect place to hold an interna- The results are incredible. Since the tional folk festival in the US. first festival in 1984 Folkmoot has brought Eleven years later he orchestrated the over 200 folk groups from more than 100 first Folkmoot USA to coincide with North countries to perform. This year the invited Carolina’s 400th birthday celebration. The groups include Russia, , , Jor- public loved the event and droves of people dan, , , , United turned out to watch some of the best inter- Kingdom (Irish Dancers) and . national folk dancers. “The problem we face as a non-profit organization,” Babcock says, “is that we’ve been around for over a quarter century and Folkmoot USA have become such a part of the community July 22 - August 1 that folks sometimes forget that we do need their financial support. We really do rely A two-week festival in eleven heavily on local funding.” counties across Western North Caro- Despite language barriers and the lina, featuring performances, parades inherent scheduling difficulties involved and workshops. More than 350 in getting foreign performers from their performers from about ten countries homes to Haywood County, Babcock will gather to celebrate culture heritage believes something invaluable occurs when through dance and music. cultures so rich in tradition come together The Parade of Nations is sched- to share their lives. uled for Friday, July 23 at 1 p.m. Cer- “It’s amazing watching all these people emonies start at the old courthouse at from all over the world get together for two 12:30 p.m. with the parade route now weeks. They work very hard but it’s also a going south on Waynesville’s Main lot like interaction between guests at a very July 15-18, 2010 Street. The Folkmoot 5K Run/Walk large international hostel.” Asheville Civic Center & Kid’s Fun Run will be held Satur- All of the 350 plus musicians, dancers, Downtown Asheville, NC day, July 31 in front of the Folkmoot choreographers and translators all stay at the Thu.-Sat.: 10am-6pm Friendship Center. Folkmoot Friendship Center, a former el- Haywood County Arts Council’s ementary school with old hard wood floors, Sun.: 10am-5pm International Festival Day (see article high ceilings and thick white enamel paint. www. craftguild.org on page 38) takes place on Saturday, 828-298-7928 July 31, also in downtown Waynes- ville. In addition to 21-ticketed performances, Folkmoot dancers and IF Tickets are on sale now and musicians are featured at 39 private may be purchased online at YOU www.folkmootusa.org or by and charitable performances during Derek Hennigar: wood GO calling the Folkmoot ticket the two-week Festival. office at (828) 452-2997.

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 9 RAPID RIVER ARTS performance The 4th Annual Laugh Your Asheville Off Comedy Festival his year’s festival has been ex- most respected comedians in history for his tended to a five-day event, kicking unique ability to give the most common el- off Tuesday, July 13 with a “Local ement new meaning. Not many comedians Comics of Asheville” showcase at will devote six minutes to a single subject Fred’s Speakeasy. Wednesday there — especially one as seemingly mundane as Twill be a feature film documentary presenta- a toaster, or as strange as his conviction that tion “I Am Comic” at the Fine Arts Theater, extraterrestrials are working among us. and then Thursday the festival moves to the Charlie Gerencer and Greg Brown, beautiful Diana Wortham for two shows the producers of Laugh Your Asheville Off, – the first with Headliner Josh Gondel- believe stand-up should be enjoyed, not man, winner of the Laughing Skull Com- judged. For this reason, Laugh Your Ashe- edy Festival, and a very special late show ville Off is the most comic friendly festival with the Beards of Comedy tour, featuring in the country, attracting the freshest and Asheville’s own Joe Zimmerman. funniest untapped talent in the U.S. The Friday features back-to-back shows combination of Greg’s vision as a comic, with more than twenty rising stars in com- and Charlie’s experience producing major edy, handpicked from around the country, live events and TV comedy shows, has been leading up to Saturday’s shows with Jake a perfect marriage, making the festival what Johannsen. Jake has become one of the it is today.

A SPECIAL INTERVIEW WITH Legendary Comic Jake Johannsen augh Your Asheville Off Com- edy Festival returns to downtown BY DENNIS RAY Asheville July 13-17. In only four years the festival has become the RRM: Hemingway said that the hardest part Enjoy Great Savings, Service and Benefits … largest stand-up comedy event in about writing in his latter years was to keep Lthe southeast. For the first time since the from self-plagiarizing. As a long time comic with the festivals conception the producers teamed do you have a hard time keeping your mate- AARP Auto & Home Insurance Program up with Rooftop Comedy to attract some of rial new and original from your earlier stuff? from The Hartford. the freshest comics in US. This year’s festi- JJ: It’s a little different with stand-up. Your val will be anchored by comedy legend Jake material is always fluid. It’s not like a novel Johannsen, as seen on two HBO specials, that has a print date and now you have to Call The Hartford Toll-Free Today Comedy Central, and a record 32 appear- come up with a whole new novel and then ances on David Letterman. more novels with different themes and to Request Your FREE Quote: Rapid River Magazine was able to do a stories to stay fresh. With stand-up I have a phone interview with Johannsen who was bunch of material that I work with, chang- performing in Las Vegas, NV at the time. ing bits and pieces through the years. Stuff CODE: 471103 1-877-547-1373 Rapid River Magazine: Back in the early that I told 20 years ago have slowly been Monday-Friday, 7AM-11PM Eastern Time 80’s you went to college and majored in worked out of my act or dropped along the Saturday & Sunday, 8AM-6PM Eastern Time veterinary medicine then became a comic. way. I might revisit a theme I used, say in How did that come about? 1990, and update it for today, but honestly ® Most AARP members qualify for an immediate phone quote. there is so much crazy stuff going on in this Please have your policy handy. Jake Johannsen: Well, I was going to college to be a vet because I liked animals. crazy world we live in that I really don’t I quickly learned that animals weren’t so have a problem with coming up with new crazy about vets. Then I thought I wanted to stuff. be an engineer and quickly found I wouldn’t RRM: Many young comics today mention like being an engineer. One of my profes- your name as their favorite or most influen- FREE Calculator/Clock! sors said I should take an aptitude test to see tial comic. Who was your inspiration when Take our savings challenge! See how much we can save what I might enjoy doing for a career. So I you first began? you over your current auto insurance, and you’ll receive this calculator/clock … just for requesting a quote. took one. It said I should be an advertising JJ: The comics who influenced me the most sells person or actor. I tried out for a school when I first started out, maybe not so much play, got a part and fell in love with the The AARP Automobile and Homeowners Insurance Program is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, in style or comedy, but in their honesty and Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. CA License # 5152. In Washington, the Program is underwritten by Hartford Casualty theatre. I also loved doing stand-up. I then hard work ethics were comics like Robin Insurance Company. In Texas, The Program is underwritten by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company through Hartford Fire General Agency. Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates are not financially responsible for insurance products decided to move to California to see if I was Williams and Steve Martin, and so many underwritten and issued by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company. AARP and AARP Financial Inc. receive from The Hartford any good. There weren’t comedy clubs in payments for AARP’s license of its intellectual property for use by The Hartford and for services rendered in connection with the other people that I opened for way back Program. Amounts paid by The Hartford for this license are used for the general purposes of the Association and its members. Middle America. I started by doing open when I first started out. These guys would AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. Applicants are individually underwritten and some may not mike. You do terrible and you come back qualify. Specific features, credits and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and work around the clock perfecting their craft. applicable law. The Program is currently unavailable in Massachusetts, Canada and U.S. Territories or Possessions. All first time and do it again. There is a real trial an error It was amazing how hard they worked. responders receive the free gift. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. The free gift offer is not available in , but residents with being a comic. may still request a quote. Homeowners product is not available in all areas, including the state of Florida. continued on next page

10 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS performance continued from page 8 Art collecting, painting etc.? JJ: I love my wife. As far as When they get on stage it hobbies go I love to read and sounded so effortless like they travel. My big love is surfing. were just winging it, that this That’s something that both great comic timing and all just my wife and I do. We’re not came naturally to them. With great at it. Since we’re not all great art it’s the ability to great we’re capable of having give the illusion of simplicity. fun. Being good at some- RRM: What was it like per- thing takes the fun right out forming for Johnny Carson? of it. That’s why little kids JJ: (pauses) That was a long have so much fun. They’re time ago. I remember being not good at things, or if they in awe at the time. What can are, they don’t know it. They just have fun. I say about Johnny Carson Comic legend Tell them you saw it in Rapid River Magazine that hasn’t been said a million Jake Johannsen RRM: I want to thank you for times? He was a class act. your time. RRM: What is your favorite book this year? JJ: Thank you. I’m really looking forward JJ: Lost city of Z by David Grann. to coming to Asheville. I’ve heard so many wonderful things about that area. I’ve never RRM: So what’s the secret to being funny? been. I’m meeting my family there and JJ: You’ve got to be honest and you’ve got we’re going to spend a couple days just to have a perception of things that is slightly touring the area. off center. When I’m working on my mate- Last Comic Standing producer Charlie rial I ask myself questions like “How can Gerencer, and New York Times best selling we stop illegal immigration?” Okay…and cookbook author, and stand-up comedian, I came up with a burning river of gas. Not Greg Brown produce the annual Laugh only would that keep people from crossing Your Asheville Off Comedy Festival. The over it could be a huge tourist attraction. festival, anchored by HBO and Comedy Then I went with that theme. I listed pros Central veteran Jake Johannsen, is a three- and cons. It didn’t matter how absurd they day event showcasing more than 40 stand- were because after all I was talking about a up comedians. river of burning gas. That’s something you would want to see, right? And a part of you would like to see people try and cross it. So IF For more info visit www. anyway, I just build on that. Why people YOU laughyourashevilleoff.com, laugh? I don’t know. I don’t know why call the box office at (828) 257- people do anything really. GO 4530, or visit the Pack Place Box Office in person. RRM: Any other loves besides performing?

LAUGH YOUR ASHEVILLE OFF SCHEDULE Tuesday, July 13 at 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 16 at midnight Local Comics of Asheville Talent Showcase, Midnight Trouble, Road Comic Stories with hosted by Joe Zimmerman. Proceeds to ben- Mike Storck at he New French Bar (home of efit Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. At Fred’s Tomato Tuesdays), 12 Biltmore Avenue in Speakeasy, 122 College Street in Asheville. Pay Asheville. FREE. what you can. $5 dollar suggested donation. Saturday, July 17 at 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 14 at 8 p.m. Comic Legend Jake Johannsen & Guests. Di- “I Am Comic” directed by Brady. At ana Wortham Theatre. Tickets: $22. Website: the Fine Arts Theater, 36 Biltmore Avenue. www.jakethis.com. Tickets: $8.75. (828) 232-0257. Visit www. iamcomicmovie.com Festival Package Deal Package includes: One ticket to both shows Thursday, July 15 at 8 p.m. Thursday, July 15; One ticket to both shows Josh Gondelman & Friends, at the Diana Friday, July 16; One ticket to either Jake Jo- Wortham Theatre. Tickets: $10. hanssen show, 7 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. Price: $45. Savings=$21. Thursday, July 15 at 10:30 p.m. The Beards of Comedy at the Diana Wortham Theatre. Visit www.beardsofcomedy.com IF Diana Wortham Theatre, Tickets: $10. YOU 2 South Pack Square in Asheville. Box Office: Friday, July 16 at 8 p.m. & 10:30 p.m. GO (828) 257-4530 or visit The Laugh Your Asheville Off Showcase www.dwtheatre.com. For Show. Two shows, different performers, at more information visit www. the Diana Wortham Theatre. Tickets: $12. laughyourashevilleoff.com.

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 11 Get this RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE ExClusivE poetry & books oFFEr The Poetry of Antonio Machado

his column is devoted to a po- Lorca would books BY TED OLSON for etry book that, given its sheer both become 6 length (over 500 pages) and victims of the the excellence of its contents, bent, a number of the poems in Bor- Spanish Civil will generate many hours of der of a Dream are overtly philosophi- War — Lorca ¢ Treading and contemplation, whether cal or symbolic, including the follow- in 1936, and 99 in a hammock during July or by the ing lyric (on page 37): Machado Plus a FREE GIFT fireside during January. in 1939. with membership Border of a Dream: During his final Selected Poems of The clock was striking twelve, and it was twelve years, Machado composed a series Antonio Machado shovel blows into the earth. of highly political poems, a number (Copper Canyon Press, “My hour’s come!” I screamed. The silence of which are incorporated in Border 2004) collects much of answered me, “Don’t be afraid. of a Dream, most notably an elegy Enter code A5F147 the beloved poetry from You won’t see the last drop fall composed in response to the execu- joinDoubledayBookClub.com one of ’s greatest that is trembling in the water clock. tion of Lorca (“The Crime Was in poets, with the original You still have many hours Granada”). Machado’s political poems Spanish texts printed here on the old bank, not only grieve at the inhumanity of alongside subtle yet and on one stainless morning war, but also affirm the role of poetry often sublime Eng- you find your boat moored on another shore.” as a source of strength and wisdom in lish-language versions a worsening modern world. translated by American Whatever their themes, the poems poet Willis Barnstone. Border of a Dream features a in Border of a Dream are remarkably Born July 26, 1875, in Seville, generous selection from Machado’s accessible today despite having been Spain, Antonio Machado grew up in most acclaimed poetry collection, translated from another language, Madrid within a family dominated by Fields of Castilla (1912), including a culture, and era. Indeed, few poets intellectuals and artists (Machado’s rare English-language translation of worldwide have produced such an im- grandfather was an esteemed profes- that volume’s long poem, “The Land pressive corpus of poetry, and thank- sor at the University of Madrid, while of Alvargonzalez.” A sample of the fully the finest of Machado’s poems Machado’s older brother, Manuel, resonant poetry from Fields of Castilla are now available in excellent English- was a noted poet). The most profound can be found on page 167 of Border of language translations within a single, formative experience upon Antonio a Dream — “Summer Night,” a poem indisputably indispensable book. Machado was Spain’s military defeat that is at the same time vividly detailed during the Spanish-American War of and richly metaphorical: 1898 — his nation, humili- Ted Olson is the HOUSING FOR RENT ated on the world stage, was author of such no longer a colonial power. It is a beautiful summer night. books as Breathing North Asheville 2 bedroom 1 bath townhouse Machado would become as- The tall houses leave in Darkness: Poems $495/mo. Close to downtown Asheville. sociated with “the Generation their balcony shutters open (Wind Publications, Includes water. (828) 252-4334 WNC Rentals of ’98,” a fin-de-siecle artis- to the wide plaza of the old village. 2006) and Blue Ridge Folklife (University tic/intellectual movement that In the large deserted square, stone benches, burning bush and acacias Press of Mississippi, 1998) and he was dedicated to revitalizing is the editor of numerous books, trace their black shadows Spanish culture (other major including CrossRoads: A Southern figures were poet Juan Ramon symmetrically on the white sand. Culture Annual (Mercer University Jimenez and philosophers In its zenith, the moon, and on the tower Press, 2009). His experiences as Miguel de Unamuno and Jose the clock’s illuminated globe. a poet and musician are discussed Ortega y Gasset). I stroll through this ancient village, on www.windpub.com/books/ In seeking themes alone like a ghost. breathingindarkness.htm. for early poems, Machado avoided temporal social issues Machado was a literary hero to Poets who would like for their poetry to be and instead gravitated toward eternal considered for a future column may send verities. His first published book, the next generation of Spanish-lan- their books and manuscripts to Ted Olson, Solitudes (1903), explored the same guage writers and a mentor to Spain’s ETSU, Box 70400, Johnson City, TN most famous twentieth-century poet, 37614. Please include contact information universal themes that would continue and a SASE with submissions. to infuse his poetry: family, tradition, Federico Garcia Lorca. Machado and landscape, childhood, love, and death. Yet, Machado’s poetry was not particularly “personal”; in his poems he distanced his observations and Heritage Alive! Mountain Youth Talent Contest memories from their source emo- Deadline: July 8, 2010. Showcasing the youth of Western North Carolina tions by utilizing strict verse forms (up to the age of 18), during the Folk Festival held July 17 in downtown and by employing an understated, Franklin, NC. Participants must exhibit a talent that reflects Appalachian often colloquial yet carefully wrought heritage. Categories include Poetry/Storytelling, Vocal Performance, Spanish language (American novelist Instrumentalists, and Dance. Prizes are offered for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John Dos Passos described Machado’s place winners. To register contact Amy Ammons Garza (828) 631-4587. Castilian Spanish as “dry, spare, and Entry forms available at www.spiritofappalachia.org. luminous”). Given the poet’s reflective

12 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE authors ~ books ~ readings

The Devil Amongst the Lawyers REVIEW BY CAULEY BENNETT A Ballad Novel written by Sharyn McCrumb syndicate, thus adversely affecting Erma’s lthough author Sharyn Virginia. They image among the influential out-of-town McCrumb has been ignore the obvi- reporters as well as the jury. busy writing her zany ous facts about Sensing a terrible truth hiding behind novels about NASCAR the normal We host Saturday & Sunday Erma’s silence, Carl arranges for his 13- JULY 2010 Readings, Bookclubs, Poetrio! A racing (Faster Pastor, people and the year-old cousin Nora Bonesteel to visit. PARTIAL LISTING More events posted online. Ingalls Publishing, 2010 is the pretty towns Nora, as fans of McCrumb’s ballad novels latest), her faithful fans have been in favor of what Tuesday, July 6 at 7 p.m. know, has the “Sight,” but alas, she can’t Hal Blackwell reading - eagerly awaiting her return to her they want to see — ignorant prevent the future by knowing what it is. Secrets of the Skim. A Merrill Appalachian ballad novels. The hillbillies, living in shacks with Being a McCrumb novel, The Devil Lynch financial advisor’s tale long wait (the last ballad novel children running around ragged Amongst the Lawyers brims with compelling of the raw greed and cultural was Ghost Riders in 2003) is and everyone waiting to shoot characters who are passionate, flawed, and rot harbored in the belly of their old rival from the next hol- Wall Street’s most iconic finally over with the arrival this Sharyn McCrumb unforgettable. In addition to a riveting history month of The Devil Amongst the ler. The one reporter who tries of the real Appalachia, Devil offers unexpect- institution. Lawyers. I join many in cheering, “Welcome to tell the truth, young Carl Jennings, (a ed side trips to . The exotic combines Friday, July 9 at 7 p.m. back, Sharyn!” character based on McCrumb’s own father) with the familiar to create a unique new bal- Susan Hasler reading - It’s 1935. FDR is President and the enrages his bosses for not being as “accu- lad novel that was worth waiting for. Intelligence: A Novel of the Depression affects everyone. The Carter rate” as the national reporters. The fact that CIA. A team of Intelligence Family singers are debuting on radio. It the journalistic irresponsibility of 75 years agents try to prevent an impending terrorist Happened One Night sweeps the Oscars ago resonates today is a disconcerting echo attack, but are thwarted by but attention now in the novel. IF Sharyn McCrumb will bureaucratic hurdles in this is focused on the …brims with compelling Like all of YOU read from and sign copies darkly humorous debut. production of characters who are passionate, McCrumb’s GO of her new novel, The Devil the fourth film novels, Devil is Amongst the Lawyers. Arrive Monday, July 12 flawed, and unforgettable. early to get a good seat. from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. version of the based on a real To Kill a Mockingbird – 1908 Appalachian story and she’s Friday, July 10, 7:00 p.m. Malaprop’s 50th anniversary celebratory novel, The Trail of the Lonesome Pine. It’s meticulously researched the historical con- Bookstore/Café, 55 Haywood Street, reading of Harper Lee's being shot in the hills above Los Angeles, text. After graduating from teacher college, downtown Asheville. For more information Pulitzer Prize-winning the first outdoor film made in Technicolor. Erma Morton rejects the exciting future call (828) 254-6734. masterwork. Lonesome Pine’s misrepresentation of her beauty would have guaranteed her and Saturday, July 11, 1:00 p.m. Blue Ridge Thursday, July 15 at 7 p.m. Appalachian culture, especially its infamous returns home to live with her parents. When Osondu Books & Café, 152. S. Main St., Sujatha Hampton reading so-called “Code of Honor,” is guaranteed to her tyrannical drunken father is found Waynesville. Call (828) 456-6000. - As It Was Written. The appeal to film audiences looking for distrac- dead, Erma is charged with his murder. Tuesday, July 13, 7:00 p.m. City Lights epic journey of an Indian- tion from economic hard times. Caring no It’s a spectacular story — a beautiful young Bookstore, 3 East Jackson Street, Sylva, NC. American family. more for truth than Hollywood filmmakers woman fighting for her freedom. News- (828) 586-9499. Friday, July 30 at 7 p.m. are the big-city newspaper reporters In The paper readers will eat it up. Counting on a Minrose Gwin reading - Devil Amongst the Lawyers who’ve been as- windfall, Erma’s brother Harley sells the The Queen of Palmyra. An Author’s Website: www.sharynmccrumb.com signed to cover a murder trial in small-town exclusive rights to her story to a newspaper unforgettable evocation of a time and a place in America — a nuanced, gripping story of race and identity. TWO EVENTS FOR Read My Pins REVIEW BY Tuesday, 08/03 at 7 p.m. CAULEY BENNETT Carol Bradley reading READERS AND WRITERS Stories from a Diplomat’s - Saving Gracie: How One Jewel Box, written by Dog Escaped the Shadowy The Book Club Her pins be- World of American Puppy Madeleine Albright with others Wednesday, July 14, came her personal Mills. Bradley draws back 3:00 p.m. symbols. Part of her the curtain on the world of hen Madeleine Albright was diplomatic strat- illegal puppy production. A The Physick Book of touching story of survival and the U.S. Ambassador to the egy was to send the Deliverance Dane (www. redemption. United Nations (1993-1997), right symbol at the physickbook.com) has she discovered that her jewelry, right time — something new both in the thrilled readers with its specifically the pins she wore history of diplomacy and in women’s power 55 Haywood St. beguiling tale that shifts in time from Won her staid business suits, became part of wardrobes. When Albright wore a glowing 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 today to the Salem witch trials. Byron her “diplomatic arsenal.” sun on her shoulder, it sent a clear message Monday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Ballard, local witch/bookseller and At first unconsciously, such as when of optimism about the upcoming peace talks Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. former Rapid River contributor, will she chose to wear a pin in the shape of a — compared to a wasp ready to sting or a stop by to share some traditional Ap- serpent to meet with Iraqi officials after a crab showing annoyance at the dull pace of palachian healing techniques. Don’t poem calling her an “unparalleled serpent” negotiations. Albright continued her “pin miss this free event! was published in the Iraqi press, and then policy” when she was named Pres. Bill Monthly Writers Support Group with more deliberation, she chose accesso- Clinton’s Secretary of State in 1997, becom- Third Thursday, July 15, 6:00 p.m. ries to send a subtle — and sometimes not ing the highest ranking woman in the U.S. so subtle — message. Read My Pins (Harper No critiquing, just motivating! government. Collins, 2009) is a unique, entertain- Lavishly illustrated with over 300 pieces IF YOU GO: Accent on Books, 854 ing trip through Albright’s history via the of jewelry and lots of diplomatic photos, Merrimon Ave. Asheville. For more rhinestones, enamel, faux pearls and other Read My Pins is possibly the first diplomatic information call (828) 252-6255. sparklies in her jewel box. bio written in bling.

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 13 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE authors ~ books ~ readings

JULY HIGHLIGHTS AT Crude World REVIEW BY CAULEY BENNETT The Violent Twilight of Oil, written by Peter Maass MALAPROP’S less oil dollars are in the pockets of the ast month I faced the pathetic fact Crude World covers people? Long story made short — the oil Susan Hasler Thrills that I knew nothing about oil other the fascinating geology, companies make agreements, not with the Readers with Her CIA than it used to cost me $5 to fill up geographic placement and people but with the “government” — and Novel – Friday, July my car tank and now it costs $42. history of oil, and explains in many cases (Equatorial Guinea, for one) 9, 7:00 p.m. L I needed a good, solid book for oil why it’s crucial to re- that government is really a tyrannical dicta- A 21-year veteran of dummies — and I was thrilled to find one member that oil “peaks” tor who spends all the money on himself the CIA, Susan Hasler written by one of my favorite investiga- — meaning it’s not and his cronies. It seems true what J. Paul learned lots of inside tive reporters, Peter Maass. If Maass wrote limitless — and why countries whose Getty once said, “The meek shall inherit the information which she has turned into a book, I knew it would have lots of good oil might be peaking now, such as certain Earth, but not the mineral rights.” Intelligence, a debut thriller that’s get- stories and it would make seeming impon- Middle East countries — don’t want anyone Also, why is it that the words “oil” and ting rave reviews. derables easy to understand. to know that. Except for the Gulf and the “war” often boil up in the same sentence? Peter Maass’s work didn’t disappoint. Exxon Valdez spill, I had no idea of the It’s a much longer concept than I can syn- T. Rafael Cimino In fact, Crude World: extent of oil’s damage opsize here, but Peter Maass does explain Churns Up Powerful The Violent Twilight until Crude World — and never again will I watch the news Drug Smuggling Tale of Oil (Alfred A. “The meek shall inherit the opened my eyes of young American men and women dying – Wednesday, July Knopf, 2009) turned Earth, but not the mineral to the horrendous without wondering where the black ooze is 14, 7:00 p.m. out to be one of the rights.” ~ J. Paul Getty legacy of pollution lurking. Maass’ most provocative concern is Based on real events most informative left behind in many revealed in the title of the book — why does from the 1980s, film- books I’ve read in — I emphasize many he consider oil to be in its twilight, rather maker T. Rafael Cimino’s novel Mid ages. In light of the oil disaster in the Gulf — places in the world. And usually in coun- than its dawn — and what does this mean to Ocean dives into the murky drug of Mexico that began a few days after I tries whose native people can’t fight back, you and me? Factual, controversial, shock- world of the Florida Keys. finished the book, I can say that I am a lot such as in or Nigeria. ing — Crude World: The Violent Twilight more aware of not only what is happening Why does it seem that in many coun- of Oil is one of those books that should be Sujatha Hampton in the Gulf but what the pundits on the TV tries (notable exceptions being Norway and read by every American. Debuts with Epic Tale news are really yabbering about. Kuwait), the more oil in the ground, the Author’s website: www.petermaass.com of Indian-American Family – Thursday, July 15, 7:00 p.m. Virginia tale-spinner Sujatha Hamp- Baseball in Asheville REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN ton’s first novel, As It Is Written, is a sumptuous collision of different tradi- Written by Bill Ballew Stargell and Cal Ripken Sr. (Cal Jr. was a tions, including curses, in a family of batboy here). Hindus and Catholics. hen I moved to Asheville in and enjoy the game of 1983, one of the first things I baseball the way it used The book is loaded with photographs Christine Lavin Stops did was to go down to McCor- to be played. not only of the Tourists and their predeces- in Malaprop’s on Her mick Field to watch the local Baseball in Ashe- sors but also of the Negro League baseball Whirlwind Tour of minor league baseball team, the ville is part of the Arca- teams that played here, the Asheville Royal W Giants and the Asheville Blues. It mentions Asheville – Sunday, Asheville Tourists. I can’t remember if they dia Publishing series, July 25, 2:00 p.m. won or lost but that wasn’t the point. The Images of Baseball. the careers of the players who made it to the point was to sit in the stands, enjoy a beer Asheville is an ideal candidate for major leagues and provides a glimpse into Singer, songwriter, and a hot dog, smell the freshly mown grass, inclusion in such a series since baseball has the city’s past. If you love baseball and want folk legend, Christine been a part of the city since shortly after the to know more about the history of Asheville, Lavin marks her 25 Civil War. McCormick Field, the home of then this book is a must. years of performing with a funny, wild, …baseball has been a part the Tourists, opened in 1924 and has seen a warm memoir: Pizza for Breakfast — a Chip Kaufmann is a film critic for Rapid River of the city since shortly after number of baseball legends over the years, Mem-Wha? If you love American folk and a passionate baseball fan. the Civil War. from Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig to Willie music and the women who make it world-famous, this event is a must. IF YOU GO: Malaprop’s Bookstore/ Café, 55 Haywood Street, downtown Lives of the Trees REVIEW BY CAULEY BENNETT Asheville. For more information call An Uncommon History, written by Diana Wells (828) 254-6734. arrows). In between are such lovelies as hat a delight for armchair tree tree stories in Lives of H (for the handkerchief tree from lovers! Not a volume to weigh the Trees (Algonquin whose flowers are “fluttering like doves) down your backpack — but to Books, 2010), skillfully and S (for the sandalwood tree whose Rapid River Book Editor curl up with and savor a chapter illustrated in soft black wood is used for incense). You’ll find your Cauley Bennett is an at a time. Though most of us are and white drawings by common trees, such as elder and oak, along Asheville writer. You can W with rarities, such as the monkey puzzle aware of trees in general, few of us have had Heather Lovett. reach her by e-mailing the time to pay attention to specific trees, Wells (who also (whose sharp prickles were developed to [email protected] a failing of contemporary life that author wrote 100 Flowers and confuse dinosaurs) and the welwitschia, Diana Wells is determined to change. She How They Got Their Names, among oth- which resembles a vegetable octopus. The wants us to revel in the details of differ- ers) introduces readers to trees all over the book includes a helpful index and an excel- COMING NEXT MONTH ent trees — their leaves, flowers, and bark, planet, from A (for acacia, whose wood was lent list for further reading. Review of The Ape House, the mesmerizing new book by Sara Gruen, author of the best-selling historical and especially the lore that time has created said to build the Ark of the Covenant), to novel Water for Elephants. around them. There are 100 wonderful Y (for yew, the wood of choice for making

14 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE artful living

in their life, but for everyone, there At the End of Myself BY BILL WALZ is an urge from deep within to realize “I cannot live with myself any longer.” This was the thought that who they are beyond their limited and anxious story of self. There is a and conflict and confusion inevitably kept repeating itself in my mind. Then, suddenly I became aware silent whispering to actualize a result. These thoughts are not who of what a peculiar thought it was. “Am I one or two? If I cannot live dimension that has no fear be- we are. with myself, there must be two of me: The ‘I’ and the ‘self’ that ‘I’ cause it is the realized truth of The lesson that leads to lib- eration, that leads to the discovery cannot live with.” “Maybe,” I thought, “only one of them is real.”… who they are beyond any sense of lack or fear. of who we truly are, is what hap- My mind stopped… I felt drawn into a vortex of energy… I heard the It is from this place, as pens when we are willing to let words “resist nothing.”… Suddenly there was no more fear. Tolle’s inner voice guided the thoughts, the stories and ~ Eckhart Tolle – introduction to "Power of Now" him, that we are able to their drama end, when we “resist nothing.” This is are willing to come to the sometimes spoken of as end of ourselves to discov- er our true Self in the quiet he discovery that Eckhart Tolle Anything that can end must also have the Self beyond the self, space that lingers after the made in a time of deep despair, a beginning, and so it is with this “me” that the Being that is before thought-stories end. In a time when, in effect, he had can reach its end, because this “me,” in ad- and larger than ego, that quiet space, where reached the end of himself, is an dition to being a biological form that has its the true “I” that isn’t the ego-self ends, there important secret common to all beginning and end, is also a story begun in at odds with any- is a purity of awareness mysticalT teaching. It is also at the heart of each person’s infancy and rewritten and re- thing in the Universe like a mirror that reflects what Buddhist psychology. He had entered into fined throughout a life span. Understand, it because there is a knowing is in front of it without reacting to the con- and found resolution to the personal and is not the biological “me” with its beginning emanating from this Self of being an inte- tents of the reflection, that can see clearly, spiritual conflict that is sometimes referred and end that is a problem, not any more gral expression of the Universe unfolding. It that is completely within the unfolding of to as “the dark night of the soul,” a term than a squirrel’s life is problematic, but is. Nothing more is needed. the moment, just as it is. It needs nothing. It coined by the 16th Century Christian rather, it is the “story of me” that we carry The man who was not yet the Buddha fears nothing for it is our essential Self, and mystic St. John of the Cross to describe his in our mind that bedevils and worries us. came to the end of himself 2500 years ago essence cannot be reduced or threatened. struggle with faith. It is a coming to an end as he sat under the Bodhi tree in medita- We don’t have to achieve complete of self as understood and lived from a very tion vowing never to rise until he achieved enlightenment as the Buddha did. That’s limited egocentric perspective, and in that There is the “me” that enlightenment. In the moment of his just another story. A moment where you ending, to open into a new light of under- is all wrapped up in the enlightenment, looking at a morning star, stop all your stories, release your addic- standing that bridges the ego-self to the beginnings and endings he transcended himself and became the tion to drama, where you come to the end Universe, to all of life, awakening a deeper morning star, and so the seeking nobleman of my material life of yourself, either by circumstance or by Self that lives in that connection. turned ascetic named Siddhartha Gotama circumstances... conscious choice, and fully experience the Understand that a life-threaten- figuratively died, to emerge as the Buddha, still quiet space where you and the Universe ing emotional crisis is not necessary. Any The Awakened One. He then rose from meet is enough. person can decide at any time that there It is the story of the socially condi- his meditation and went on to teach his This end is the beginning, when the must be more than their anxiety filled life, tioned “me,” the “me” in the timeline of my “Middle Way” and the Noble Truths that moment just as it is, is enough, and we find and choose to open into new possibilities life, getting from past to future that causes said suffering was caused by attachment to ourselves embedded within the moment, by looking at the life they have been living so much tension, conflict and angst. It is my this story of self with all its drama, cravings not some separate spectator or victim of and deeply examining the “I” and the “self” stories of success and failure, both past and and aversions, causing life to be frustrating it. It will start you on the path to the Self as Tolle did. What Tolle discovered was anticipated. It is my stories of humiliation and often dissatisfying. He also taught that that knows how to resist nothing and live that there is a “me” that can reach its end, and redemption, of love and hate, of strug- salvation was available to those who were without fear. and there is a “me” that has no end. There gle and accomplishment, of gain and loss, ready to come to the end of their ego-selves, As you learn to linger there, tasting and is the “me” that is all wrapped up in the of relationship and loneliness. It is the story and in doing so, awaken into the deeper learning the truth of who you are — at the beginnings and endings of my material life of my psychological profile, my personal truth of who they were beyond frustration end of yourself — you will find life, your circumstances, and there is a “me” that is a philosophy, and my political and religious and dissatisfaction. life, sparkling like a diamond. direct expression of Life, a continuum with- identifications. It is my habits, my prefer- out beginning and end. It is Life expressing ences, my prejudices, my likes and dislikes. ...and there is the “me” that itself through an individual human. It is also It is my fantasies. It is my hopes and fears. the entryway into mystical experience, an It is the story of my addictive behaviors. It is a direct expression of Bill Walz teaches meditation often misunderstood and ethereal concept, is even the story of my spiritual beliefs and Life, a continuum without and mindfulness at UNCA for it is in actuality, the true expression of journey. It is anything and everything that is beginning and end. and public forums, and the fullest human potential for spiritual and in the matrix of thought patterns that fill my is a private-practice mental health. mind with who I think I am. And, it is not meditation teacher and Both this limited ego-self me and the who I nor anyone is. Not at our essence. What is important for us to hold in life-coach for individuals mystical me-as-the-Universe-expressing- The “story” always contains drama, awareness is that every thought in our in mindfulness, personal itself exist, and every human experiences struggle and strife. For some, there is rela- minds is really only a story, a representation, growth and consciousness. both of these dimensions, although few rec- tively little struggle, for others it is a living and often a distortion of our direct experi- He holds a weekly meditation class, ognize the mystical experience as their very torture chamber. What is true for everyone ence-in-the-world, and we live attaching to Mondays, 7 p.m., at the Friends Meeting essence, and fewer still consciously explore is that there is an ever-present whip of fear these story-thoughts as if they were true, as House, 227 Edgewood. He will hold a this ego-transcendent dimension. For the about whether they are enough, whether if they represent who we are and what the Summer Satsang, Saturday, July 31, 2-5 vast majority, they stay wrapped up in the their story matters, whether who they are world is about. This is what the Buddha p.m., a time for True-Self exploration, certainty of their circumstantial material ex- is actually the truest and best expression of taught as the delusion that leads to suffer- discussion and meditation at the Friends perience as the full extent of who they are. who they might be. It always feels like there ing. Each thought arises calling to us to Meeting House. Both by donation. These seeming contradictory expressions must be more. Again, for some, this may be believe in it as the truth, but it is only a story Info on classes, talks, personal growth and of self are the essential paradox of human nothing more than a passing fantasy of little that arises and passes away. These thoughts healing instruction, or phone consultations existence, which if unraveled, leads to a true consequence, while for some it is agonizing, are often at odds with each other, and cer- at (828)258-3241, e-mail at healing@ liberation, to where there is no fear. and for still others, it is a motivating cause tainly at odds with the thoughts of others, billwalz.com. Visit www.billwalz.com

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 15 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE spinning discs

The advent of summer brings to us a diverse selection of albums guaranteed CD Reviews to challenge your notions of music and (hopefully) expand your horizons. Just be sure to expand them at any one of our local independently owned record by James Cassara stores. They’re the ones who help keep the music real!

Willie Nelson truth this is hardly your standard reunion more sinister than pop. This is butt kicking Country Music — they were never officially a duet nor did rock and roll from a woman who, at the age Rounder Records they ever have the sort of creative differ- of 60, has a musical chip on her shoulder ences, or drug fueled break ups, of which that she is just daring you to knock off. Considering the rock legend is born. They simply went their This Charming Life is full of the liter- ubiquitous nature of separate ways into hugely successful careers. ate swagger of great rock and roll without Willie these days it Which brings us to 2010. Riding the the posturing that too often drags it down. might be hard to remember that at the core crest of the nostalgia wave, King and Sweet Four decades after she first arrived on the of things Nelson remains one of the most Baby James, both well into their 60s, have scene, Armatrading remains a consummate respected artists of the past half century, a again paired up, this time playing the origi- songwriter. And, while this album might performer whose full influence might not nal Los Angeles venue so critical to the early lack the thematic focus of her best works, be known until years from now. years. Backed by guitarist Danny Kortchmar, what it lacks in cohesion it more than makes The simplicity of his latest release, from bassist Leland Sklar, and drummer Russell up for in clarity, smarts, and drive. It also its rustic barn cover to the modest intent of Kunkel, the two stroll merrily through the makes for great listening, further evidence the songs, seems in part an attempt to set the songs for which they are best known, songs that Joan Armatrading remains an artist of record (excuse the pun) straight; that for all which have permeated our sonic conscious- singular talent. ****1/2 his forays into differing styles and associa- ness and become a part of our lives. tions with varied genre musicians he is first Pitch perfect renditions of songs you Roky Erickson and foremost a country singer, dammit, and know and love is a formula that is hard to a pretty darn good one at that. mess up, and while there are certainly no True Love Cast Out In many ways this is a bit of a throw- surprises here, Live at the Troubadour isn’t all Evil back; the softened edges and muted tones about shaking things up, it’s about musi- Anti Records evoke the now treasured but-at-the-time- cal kinship flavored with a heavy dash of Much like Syd largely-ignored albums he cut during the nostalgia, and in that regard it succeeds Barrett, Daniel John- mid to late sixties, while the trademark admirably. *** ston, and Skip Spence, Roky Erickson has T-Bone Burnett flourishes of heavy bass attained a certain cult status based as much punctuated by touches of reverb give it a on myth as music. His struggles with men- more contemporary yet oddly nostalgic Joan Armatrading tal and physical illness are well documented, feel. This seeming contradiction makes for This Charming Life and even after a series of triumphant recent a rather puzzling result. While the terrain Savoy Jazz Records live shows, no one was quite sure if he had is easily recognizable to Nelson there’s not Throughout her enough in him to make a full album. much adventure here. long and distinguished Fortunately Darren Hill, who has guid- Country Music plays it close to the vest; career Joan Armatrading ed Erickson’s career for the past decade, came which makes for a reassuring but inarguably has been a model of consistency, weathering up with the brilliant idea of pairing Erickson lazy listening experience. Neither Nelson the changes in the musical universe around with the Austin Texas based indie band Ok- nor producer Burnett elicits anything fresh her while maintaining an artistic integrity kervil River. It’s a bold move that pays off in in what are overly familiar song choices. firmly set by her muse. That’s not to say her spades, resulting in one of the most exciting More puzzling is that one gets the sense they music hasn’t evolved: It most certainly has, and imaginative albums of the year. didn’t care to, as if the formula of that voice but it’s been in response to her own natural Rather than mimic the psychedelic and those songs should be enough. growth rather than in reaction to the styles sound of Erickson’s early solo albums or Given his recent collaboration with and mores of the day. his work with the Thirteen Floor Elevators, Asleep at the Wheel, or his excellent 2006 Following a brief detour into roots and producer Will Sheff has logically built on tribute to fellow Texas songwriter Cindy blues music, This Charming Life finds Ar- Erickson’s knack for lyrical trickery, creating Walker, one might have expected more. matrading returning to what she does best; a song cycle of a dozen components that in- As it is, Country Music is the sound of a spirited rock and roll spiced up with smart terweave into a quilt, evoking the dominat- veteran pro having a good time hanging and lyrics and hooks aplenty. Yet while the in- ing themes of the artist’s life and music. playing with whoever happens to drop by tent is familiar the approach is anything but. True Love Cast Out All Evil is book the studio. Not bad, but a record that was Armatrading plays all the instruments (sans ended by a pair of amateur recordings Erick- probably more fun to make than listening to drums) and produced the release herself. son made during his lengthy stay in a mental might indicate. **1/2 It’s her hardest-hitting and most muscular health facility. In between it swings back and album in years, built around a solid wall of forth between themes of love, pain and loss, Carole King and distorted aggression that showcases both and the unforeseen redemption that comes James Taylor the clout of her voice and her oft neglected via equal parts perseverance and sheer luck. skills as a guitarist. And while the joy ultimately outweighs the Live at the Troubadour For those who have mislabeled Arma- bad, this is in no way an easy journey. Concord Records trading a neo-folkie, This Charming Life The title cut and its natural partner “Be Having virtually invented the notion is a heck of a wake up call. One listen to and Bring Me Home” straddles a thin line of sensitive singer-songwriter, it seems such tough bits as “Love, Love, Love” and between conquering ones demons and suc- only appropriate that these two celebrate “Heading Back to New York City” should cumbing to them, while the gospel tinged its current revival (nee Josh Ritter and suggest there’s a hard-as-nails influence “Ain’t Blues Too Sad” finds the bitter in Jack Johnson among others) by reuniting. that’s been waiting for years to surface. And the sweet. On “Bring Back the Past” and Almost forty years after first emerging as does it ever! The dual punch of bass and “Goodbye Sweet Dreams” Erickson puts solo performers the two paired in 2007 for drums elevates this into something much a series of highly successful evenings. Yet in ‘CD’s’ continued on next page

16 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what’s happening

‘CD’s’ continued from page 14 his self examination on hold long enough to Chris Schutz & The Tourists BY JAMES CASSARA remember the sheer delight of rocking out. They’re among the most exuberant songs inger/songwriter Chris Schutz likes is hard to say. What isn’t difficult to he’s ever committed to disc, the sound of a to describe himself as “a Missouri distinguish is the praise Schutz, a man regaining confidence in what he was boy that left the country for the big Kansas City native, has garnered far born to do. city when I was just a lad. I went and wide. Savannah Now Magazine Sheff and company match this muscle searching for the man behind the called his work “top flight indie with buoyancy. For his part Erickson’s voice curtainS but instead I found the angels with rock” whilst others have compared is in surprisingly great shape. After decades dirty faces.” his voice to Roy Orbison. Schutz spent in a hellish hinterland the wonder of That rather cinematic sentence is recorded his debut album Gemini this album cannot be over stated. It is much itself a strong example of the type of no (Palindrome Sounds label) with few more than a brilliant comeback, it is among nonsense tough as nails stories Schutz edits or enhancements beyond use the finest and most penetrating albums tells: Characters on the outside looking of the odd synthesizer. True to his Erickson has ever laid down. ****1/2 in, desperate people doing what they can love of Radio Shack, old tube amps to stay a step ahead of heartache. Schutz abound and inform the style that Various Artists spent some years playing bass in a blues runs throughout the album. band and the blues — with its reliance on Schutz and the album’s col- Twistable Turnable they hold together nicely, anchored by Man: A Musical storied hard times — remains a big influ- laborators preferred the sound of live ence. He writes about “everyday kind of recording for a more open, intimate Schutz’s voice and skewed wordplay. Tribute to the songs folks and the trials and tribulations of my listening experience.The result has the or- Before making the album Schutz earned of Shel Silverstein own collection of strange days.” ganic fluidity of pop music, filled with all his stripes as a session player, seeing first Sugar Hill Records With his band The Tourists, an the musical nuances of a live recording. As hand what it takes to make a record. It’s an The late Shel Silverstein may have been ensemble that varies “from solo to six an independent folk/ rock artist he counts experience that has paid off in spades. He the closest to a true Renaissance man as pieces,” Schutz takes his stories on the the Mamas and the Papas, George Har- and the band marked their first full-band the past century has ever seen. Silverstein road, playing each show as if it might be rison and Orbison among those that have tour for the group, which included Eric was so good at so many things; cartoonist, his last, tearing through songs of quiet informed him stylistically. As a storyteller Hoyer on electric guitar, Stephen Hayes poet, screenwriter, author, and of course desperation. Lately he’s been touring as a he likens himself to William S. Burroughs on bass and vocals, and Ron DiSilverstro song writer. Silverstein penned at least a duo or trio — with 2 guitars and a bass in his ability to distort, to build, and on drums. dozen top ten hits, writing for such talents — a stripped down mean and lean con- (hopefully) tell a story. Welcoming them to Asheville will be as Johnny Cash, Dr. Hook & the Medicine figuration that seems to suite him best. Much of the record draws on his local favorite Pierce Edens, known for his Show, Judy Collins, Emmylou Harris, and “When I’m not on the road I enjoy the experiences as a recovering addict, and the own ability to spell bound a crowd with The Irish Rovers. finer things in life” he adds; Camel Lights, realizations – both light and dark – that hard luck stories and songs that worm This all-star tribute to the man and his Maxwell House and PBS. I have a love can come through that understanding. their way into your head with precision music, lovingly packaged in a classic cartoon affair with vinyl records and tape record- Working with co-producer Davidson, and gut wrenching emotion. and accented with informative liner notes, ers; I never learned how to write in cursive who’d previously worked with such gi- shows why his songs were so sought after and still use rabbit ears to get my three ants as Steve Winwood and The Rolling by others. It ideally captures the spirit of the channels of TV in my little house next to Stones, the arrangements were fleshed out IF Chris Schutz & the man as well as the child like nature of his the tracks. I am working on my next record by Davidson’s own piano and saxophone adult often decidedly world view. YOU Tourists performing here in Philly with my friend and fellow on several tracks. Clearly the collaboration with Pierce Edens at The Given the household nature of these Tourist, Jay Davidson. I don’t have a title has been creative, and with the addition of GO Emerald Lounge: 112 songs they’re pretty hard to mess up, but yet, not since I found out “Heavy Metal strings and horns delivers a much larger North Lexington Avenue most everything here works to some degree Be-Bop” was already spoken for.” sound than the stage allows. in downtown Asheville, or another. No way could anyone match Now how much of this is the truth While the songs on Gemini travel Saturday, July 17 at 9 p.m. Tickets are $5 Johnny Cash’s iconic rendering of “A Boy and how much is music business buildup through many different styles and moods for the 21+ show. Named Sue,” so Todd Snider doesn’t even try. His full throttle hold on tight version is all his own, and a pretty fair fit at that. My Morning Jacket turns “Lullabys, and drawings give solid testament to his room for one more. Based on La La Land worldly but it is refreshingly accessible and Legends, and Lies” into a 6/8 country waltz, brilliance. And while Twistable Turnable the answer is a resounding “you bet.” lacking in pretension. cajoling it along nicely with pedal steel gui- Man gives us only a glimpse of his gentle, Plants and Animals latest album derives “Fake It”, with its early Pink Floyd tar and Jim James’ lovely voice. Bobby Bare whimsical, occasionally sardonic and almost its name from what the band has described overtones comes closest to true Prog Rock, Sr. was the singer most closely associated always flat out hysterical songwriting what a as a “vortex of confusion” but the giddy but there also a feeling of warmth typically with Silverstein — some of his best albums delightful glimpse it is. **** nature of this release shows how skilled not associated with that genre. If there’s one were entirely written by Shel — but it’s they are at making something familiar seem constant that holds the album together it is surprising to hear how easily John Prine and startling fresh. the crunching guitar work of Warren Spicer Kris Kristofferson make the Bare-associated Plants and Animals The influence of hanging with friends and Nicholas Basque. You get the sense that “This Guitar is for Sale” and “The Winner” like Arcade Fire is certainly there but it is the two, along with drummer Matt Wood- sound as if they were theirs from day one. La La Land less a matter of imitation and more simply ley, spent as much time listening to fellow Only the overly sweet “The Giving Secret City Records drawing from the same pool. Cuts such Canadians Randy Bachman and Neil Young Tree” falls flat — Silverstein’s children’s Something has as the string laden “Game Shows” might as they did Yes and ELP. songs could occasionally induce diabetic clearly infiltrated the water of Montreal conjure up a half dozen different bands but It’s a decidedly odd mix, and at times comas — but that’s a fairly minor quibble or at the very least some sort of musical only if one doesn’t bother listening below not an easy one to assimilate. But there is among more than a few gems. collective consciousness has permeated the the surface. The art rock tendencies are no denying that for all its stylistic incongru- It’s been more than ten years since brainwaves of that town’s under thirty deni- balanced with assurance and heavy tremolo ence’s — or perhaps because of them, La La Shel Silverstein left this world; the surfeit zens. Considering how many world-beating guitars, an arrangement that keeps La La Land is one heck of an interesting trip. **** of books (more than 20 million sold in 20 indie rock bands seem to emerge from its Land planted firmly on solid if somewhat languages) collecting his poems, stories, environs one begins to speculate if there is extra terrestrial ground. It might be other ‘CD’s’ continued on page 28

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 17 RAPID RIVER ARTS noteworthy Swannanoa Shindigs

he Swannanoa local patriotic groups to Business Associa- perform during the band tion hosts Swan- breaks. Alcohol and pets nanoa Shindigs at will not be allowed. There 6 p.m. on every is no vendor fee to par- Tfirst Friday through Octo- ticipate, except for a small ber with the next one on food vendor fee. Vendors July 2, in Beacon Village. should reserve space The Babe Ruth Soft- ahead of time. Sponsor- ball and Baseball League ships of prizes or cash or will lead bingo games, and in-kind services are most skaters from Tarwheel welcome. Skateway will demon- strate their talents, as will Cole Mountain many crafters. Old time Cloggers music jamming areas will Photo: Tony Martin be available as will horse shoe, jump rope, and face painting areas. July’s First Friday Swannanoa Shindig IF Swannanoa Shindigs, July will feature prizes for people dressed in YOU 2 and August 6 at 6 p.m. in red, white and blue! Those dressed as Ms. GO Beacon Village, off Highway Liberty and Uncle Sam will be given special 70 at Beacon Veterinary prizes. Patriotic songs will be featured. Hospital and Marty’s Auto. Organizers are looking for donors of For more information call (828) 337-4718, cakes for the cakewalk and military and or visit www.SwannanoaShindig.com.

18 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE explore biltmore village

Make More Lasting Memories - Summer at Biltmore

Save Up to $10 Online Buy tickets online and save $10 off regular LIVE SUMMER CONCERTS adult daytime admission on Sunday–Friday Join us for unforgettable performances visits. Save $5 on all other days this summer. sponsored by SunTrust, including our new Diana at Biltmore stage Kids Admitted Free through Labor Day overlooking Biltmore House and the From now through September 6, 2010 you blue ridge mountains. can bring the whole family for less. Youth July 16-18 - Faith Renewed 16 and under are admitted free with a paying Celebration: Christian concert adult. weekend at Biltmore. Restaurants July 16 - Brandon Heath Bistro: Fresh local ingredients expertly – at Diana at Biltmore. prepared and served with style. Featuring July 17 - Gaither Vocal Band wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, and bistro – on the South Terrace. classics at lunch with impeccable seafood, July 18 - Sunday Worship with steaks, and lamb for dinner. Gloria Gaither at Diana at Biltmore. Cedric’s Tavern: Satisfying pub fare along- July 22 - An Evening with side robustly flavored American and global Mary Chapin Carpenter cuisine presented with Biltmore flair. Open – on the South Terrace. Over the daily for lunch, dinner, and late night enter- course of a 12–album recording career, tainment. Carpenter has won five Grammy® park your imagination with new sto- See Edith Vanderbilt’s Car on display Arbor Grill: Al fresco dining at this casual Awards and sold over 13 million ries and new tours that bring Ameri- for the first time ever. Mrs. Vanderbilt’s spot combining delicious food, wine, and records. Carpenter will celebrate her ca’s largest home to life. Discover fun 1913 Stevens-Duryea Model C-Six will be the estate’s natural beauty. Open daily for return to a favorite venue with music at our new Antler Hill Village—more on exhibit in the Winery. This rare piece is lunch and dinner, weather permitting. from her latest album, The Age of places to play, explore, and enjoy than the only car George Vanderbilt purchased Miracles, which was released this Sever, all included in your estate admission. that remains in the estate’s collection. Light Bites spring. Imagine what it was like to call Bilt- The village’s name comes from Antler Creamery: ice cream, gourmet coffee, cup- more home with our new house visit of- Hill, the “fine high ridge” where the Inn on July 23 - Clay Aiken and Ruben cakes, desserts, and drinks in the Village fering fascinating stories, vintage clothing, Biltmore Estate is located. From the Civil Studdard – on the South Terrace. and more for a fresh look at the people who War into the 1930s, the ridge was the site of Smokehouse: Carolina barbeque, quick After much anticipation, Clay Aiken lived and worked in this wondrous place. Antler Hall, a residence and social center for sandwiches, and light snacks at the Farm and Ruben Studdard kick off their North America tour at Biltmore. Biltmore offers something for every many estate families. A visit to Antler Hill Wine Bar: Biltmore wines accompanied Concert goers can expect an interest: free wine tastings, farmyard fun, a Village is included in estate admission. with light fare at the Winery entertaining evening as two friends new theater and exhibition hall, live music, Play in Our 8,000 Acre Backyard a new Outdoor Adventure Center, delicious Specialty Winery Experiences and colleagues blend their talents dining, great shopping and much more. Stop by our Outdoor Adventure Center for an unforgettable show. Clay in Antler Hill Village to explore the many * Behind-the-Scenes Guided Walking Tour and Ruben will be performing their Antler Hill Village different outdoor activities we offer. You * Red Wine & Chocolate renditions of classic hits from the past Discover our new village that connects can book a lesson on a Segway or in a Land * Signature Tasting five decades. In 2003, on the second the estate’s present and past, providing a Rover, rent a bike, schedule a horseback or Biltmore’s Outdoor Adventure Center season of American Idol, with over 24 relaxing place for dining, shopping, histori- carriage ride, or simply take a relaxed look at million votes cast by the TV viewing cal exhibits, and new ways to experience all your outdoor options. * Biking audience, Ruben Studdard won the Biltmore’s hospitality. In this one-stop shop, you also pick * Carriage Rides title, while Clay Aiken was the very The village is a casual place extending up nearly all the equipment you need right * Fly-fishing School close runner up. * Guided Segway Tours the Biltmore experience, from our fun and outside. Everyone in the family can have fun July 29 - An Evening with the relaxing Winery to exhibits at The Bilt- doing off-road driving, fishing, or biking, * Guided Horseback Trail Rides Steve Miller Band – on the South more Legacy to delectable pub fare and ale and our equipment accommodates young * Land Rover Experience Driving School Terrace. Get ready to rock with classic at Cedric’s Tavern. You can also enjoy live children to grandparents. * Land Rover Ride-Along Expedition tunes including “The Joker” and “Fly entertainment on the Village Green, explore Bring your own horse and explore * Kids’ Land Rover Adventure Course Like An Eagle” as this celebrated band farm life in the early 1900s at our Farm, and more than 80 miles of estate trails—the * River Float Trips from the golden age of rock fires up on get ready to explore our 8,000-acre backyard same paths used by the Vanderbilts and their * Sporting Clays School the South Terrace. at the Outdoor Adventure Center. guests at the turn of the century. July 30 - The Legendary Temptations IF Estate outdoor activities are – on the South Terrace. Still smooth THOUSANDS OF PRICELESS WORKS OF ART UNDER ONE ROOF YOU available by reservation to stepping and styling, one of Motown’s GO estate daytime guests, Biltmore original supergroups continues to • Renoir paintings • A chess set once owned by Napoleon Bonaparte 12-Month Passholders, and satisfy after 40 years with soulful hits • 16th century Flemish tapestries • The “Chariot of Aurora” ceiling painting Inn on Biltmore Estate guests. such as “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rolling • John Singer Sargent portraits • Ming Dynasty (circa 1500s) goldfish bowls Call 1-800-411-3812 for more Stone,” and “Stay.” information, or visit www.biltmore.com.

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 19 RAPID RIVER ARTS PURCHASE CRAFT FAIR T-SHIRTS NOW biltmore village

Receive $3 off Tie The Knot! t-shirts with this ad. Take another $1 off eltic knots have been around since continuous the 3rd or 4th century and have braids as seen when wearing an old been seen in the artwork of the on the chalice, l Village Art & Craft l later Roman Empire. Each one and the sec- e w s g represents a different aspect of life: ond was more Fair t-shirt at the time o C h

c C fertility, love, faith and even farming. decorative u o

of purchase. C

t Some knots are quite simple but others with domed circles, initials or symbols in e r a g

Offer valid thru 8/6/10. r are very complicated. The Celts perfected between the knots. These knots have been a M spirals, step patterns and key patterns in incorporated into all kinds of artwork for their motifs before the Christian influence centuries; everything from the embroidery in about 450 AD changed this. From then at the hem of a garment to the major feature on this Celtic form of art was used by early in a piece of jewelry and the many other THE 38TH ANNUALVillage Christians to decorate their manuscripts, manifestations we see commonly today. adding depictions from life such as animals To this day many jewelers of handmade and plants. These early patterns were called pieces sell a type of Celtic love knot ring be- Art & Craft Fair plaits and it is these intricately interwoven cause it is so symbolic of the everlasting love cords that are most commonly associated of the couple. Almost all are carved to look with the Celts. like they are an actual weaving of two strands. AUGUST 7 & 8 But every once in a while you can find a craftsman Sat 10-7 • Sun 12-6 5 Biltmore Plaza who actually braids the 828.277.8100 knots by hand, such as 7 Boston Way 120 Exhibitors • All Media one goldsmith, creating art 828.274.2831 Rain or Shine • No Admission rings in Biltmore Village. Lynn Daniel, at blue, ASHEVILLE, NC 2010 BILTMORE VILLAGE has been making Celtic The celtic love knot, that represents love knot rings for many years. She became everlasting love, represents two bonded fascinated with their intricate nature and lovers, with its two intertwining overhand their history and set out to learn how to knots. Celtic love knot pattern consists of actually braid them into the rings she was complete loops that have neither a begin- making. The very first braid going around ning nor an end. a ring took her 47 hours to perfect (she The meaning behind these specific started watching the time when she realized loops made up into the total knot has been it wasn’t going to happen very quickly!), but broken down into the parts of the knot. The now jokes that she is a little faster doing it! two strands represent the two lovers. The Lynn says the symbolism for people crossings, which are repeated often, depict is powerful. She always tells them where the physical and the spiritual, expressed the expression “tie the knot” came from, in the interlacing of the knots. Finally, the and that this particular knot that she braids strand that has no beginning and no ends stands for everlasting love. represents the permanence and continuance These rings are not only beautiful to of life, love and faith. look at, but they serve to commemorate a This knot was performed during significant day in a couple’s life. They are wedding ceremonies. The couple getting also a wonderful idea for a mother’s ring married would have to tie this particular as Lynn often puts stones in between the knot, sometimes with a rope or even a silk braids. The stones could go around the ring; scarf. They would learn the intricate weav- and those stones could be the birthstones ing that would entwine their hands within of the children, thus making a beautiful the knot at the same time. It was difficult to mother’s ring. do and took a lot of practice by the couple. It is also quite stunning to incorporate The expression, “tie the knot” came from more than one color of 14k gold in the this actual ceremony and it’s a saying we piece, maybe by making the base of the still use today. piece white gold while making the individ- THE VILLAGE ART The first fully documented marriage ual braids in another color. Lynn says her fa- ceremony performed by the Celts also used vorite combination right now is a 14k white & CRAFT FAIR a chalice during the ceremony, much like gold ring with 14k rose gold braids. Photos courtesy Mediabear / Byron Belzak catholic communion. The couple would drink wine and have a wafer to represent Jesus’ participation in the blessing of the These Celtic love knot rings can be seen at union. The chalice usually had a carved de- blue, 1 Swan Street, in Historic Biltmore sign running around the girth of the vessel, Village. Lynn will be happy to help you and the design most frequently used was the design the Celtic ring that has great Celtic love knot. meaning for you. Hours: Monday through Two different designs emerged within Saturday, 10:30 to 6 p.m. and Sundays 12 the love knot designs. The first being the to 4 p.m. Visit www.bluegoldsmiths.com

20 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE explore biltmore village 38th Annual Village Art and Craft Fair

n August 7 and 8 New Morn- all over the southeast BY SHARI RIENDEAU ing Gallery and Bellagio sponsor arrive to stroll through the Village Art and Craft Fair on the fair, discovering the grounds of the Cathedral of unique gifts for friends, Fair hours are all Souls in Biltmore Village. In family and themselves! Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 O p.m. and Sunday noon its 38th year, the VACF continues a long This year’s poster tradition of bringing high-quality crafts to was designed by NC to 6 p.m., rain or shine. Biltmore Village. artist Margaret Couch There is no admission The fair hosts 118 artists from 17 states, Cogswell. Margaret fee. Homemade re- representing the full spectrum of craft me- started making cal- freshments are available dia - jewelry, ceramic, wood, fiber, metals, endars for friends as Photo courtesy Mediabear / Byron Belzak at church sponsored two-dimensional art and more. The craft Christmas presents ten concession booths with fair is a great opportunity to encounter new years ago. Now, together with her graphic proceeds benefiting the Cathedral’s Out- artists (34 are first-time exhibitors) and to designer sister, Margaret has a thriving reach program. talk with crafters one-on-one. Most exhibi- business, Two Sisters Designs, producing tors are not represented at New Morning stationary, t-shirts, calendars, etc. all featur- Gallery, so visitors are sure to find new ing her whimsical and colorful drawings. IF 38th Annual Village Art and treasures along with a few old favorites. Margaret also assembles clever mixed media YOU Craft Fair. This high quality Over the years, our reputation as one sculptures. She comments “I love to work GO craft fair, sponsored by New of the finest craft fairs in the area has spread with found objects – from tin cans, fabric Morning Gallery and Bellagio, (along with the ubiquitous cat posters and and book materials – to create work that takes place August 7 and 8 on T-shirts). Thousands of shoppers from celebrates the simple moments in life.” the grounds of the Cathedral of All Souls in Historic Biltmore Village. Fair hours are Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m., rain or shine. Free admission. Concessions available. For more This year’s poster was designed by NC The Historic information call (828) 274-2831. artist Margaret Couch Cogswell. Village Wayside Bar and Grille

ocated in historic Biltmore Village A bit of History about the Biltmore in the original 1896 train depot is Village Train Depot the newly renovated Village Wayside Designed by Richard Morris Hunt, Bar & Grille. We offer new twists the building has a central porte cochere, L on the classics we all know and love. low-hipped roof, wide overhanging eaves Owners, Mark and Polly dreamed of their and heavy, chamfered brackets which menu while waiting on the perfect location, distinguish the exterior. The depot, along incorporating the Midwestern and southern with Hunt’s other designs in Biltmore Vil- influences they grew up eating. lage, stands in striking contrast to Hunt’s more monumental efforts, such as the Biltmore Estate. The arrangement of the interior is typical of small railway stations of the period. Double waiting rooms are separated by a center ticket office and vestibule. The depot’s placement is directly in the line of sight of All Souls Church, so passengers arriving by train had an impressive view of the church. This central axis was the focus for Biltmore Village. Passenger service on the impressive Southern Railway line continued to arrive in Biltmore Village until August 1975. Try the Reuben, slow roasted Today, the building serves visitors as a his- and brined in house with a sweet peach hi- toric restaurant and lounge. biscus tea brine, or Mark’s favorite, the beef brisket, smoked in house and smothered in homemade Cheerwine BBQ sauce served The Village Wayside Bar & Grille with hand dipped local Kolsch beer battered 30 Lodge Street, Biltmore Village onion rings. Craving something more sub- Asheville, NC 28803 stantial? Check out Potsy’s Pigs, Hungarian (828) 277-4121 style cabbage rolls, or fillet tips over a bed of www.villagewayside.com house made hummus. The Village Wayside serves lunch and Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. dinner all day long with something for Friday-Saturday 11 a.m. until late Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. everyone!

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 21 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE explore asheville The Colburn Earth Science Museum

he Colburn Earth Science Mu- Climate and You ex- BY KATHLEEN O. DAVIS seum is the legacy of engineer and hibit. Major weather bank president Burnham Standish events and weather Colburn, who retired in the 1920s on donations, memberships and grants to patterns in Western to Biltmore Forest near Asheville. achieve its mission. North Carolina TColburn moved to the area to be close to The Colburn is on the lower level of and the Southeast- Western North Carolina’s rich mineral the Pack Place Education, Arts & Science ern United States fields and the diverse specimens they held. Center on historic Pack Square at Biltmore are showcased and In 1931, Burnham S. Col- and Patton av- patrons can practice burn and his brother, William enues in down- giving a weather B. Colburn, helped found the town Asheville. report “on TV”. Southern Appalachian Mineral The museum’s The Colburn Society. The club continues Hall of Minerals, is seeking fund- today to hold monthly meet- which features ing from donors to ings, regular field trips and many items from create a permanent other educational and social the museum’s paleontology ex- activities. collection of hibit. Currently, the more than 4,500 rological Society on a series of free scien- During his lifetime, Burn- museum has on display a handful of fossils tific educational talks about climate change. ham S. Colburn amassed a specimens from from the museum’s collection of more than around the The Colburn is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., significant collection of North 500 fossil specimens. These include teeth Tuesday through Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Carolina minerals, including world, includ- from a mastodon and a wooly mammoth, a ing a examples on Sunday. the world’s largest collection of large trilobite and a glossopteris fern fossil. The Colburn will also have an infor- hiddenite, a rare variety of the of the more than The Colburn also has a temporary 350 minerals mational booth at Bele Chere where the mineral spodumene discovered display on loan from the Gray Fossil Site museum will also be selling geodes to crack in Alexander County, North found in North in Tennessee where fossils from 5 million Carolina such as and other goodies from the Crystal Pocket Carolina in 1879. years ago were discovered in 2000 by Ten- gift shop. After Burnham S. Col- kyanite, quartz, nessee Dept. of Transportation crews. The corundum, beryl, Affordable, fun educational items, burn died in 1959, the Col- Gray Fossil Site display includes fossil casts including mineral specimens, books and burn family shared many of mica, feldspar of parts of a “pot-bellied” rhinoceros, tapir, and itacolumite, the bending rock. jewelry, are for sale at the Colburn’s Crys- Colburn’s specimens with S.A.M.S. so they alligator, turtle and sloth and information tal Pocket gift shop. The Colburn also sells could be displayed to the public. Specimens The Grove Stone Room’s displays panels about the site. highlight the geology of North Carolina crystal-filled, 44-million-year-old geodes from Colburn’s collection are also at The The Colburn is the storehouse of more from Chihuahua, Mexico, which the Col- British Museum, the Cranbrook Institute and the entire Earth. The exhibits cover than 500 volumes, publications and manu- volcanoes, earthquakes, plate tectonics and burn team can crack in half for you during of Science, the McKissick Museum and the scripts, including numerous publications your visit. Smithsonian Institution. general geologic processes, including those that formed The Colburn is a member of the Asso- S.A.M.S. members added items from ciation of Science-Technology Centers and their own collections and, in July 1960, they the mountains of Western North Carolina. participates in the ASTC Passport Program. opened the Burnham S. Colburn Memorial The Colburn offers annual memberships, Museum on Coxe Avenue in Asheville. The museum’s History of Mining in North Carolina which include free admission to the mu- In 1972, the museum relocated to the seum and discounts on programs. lower level of the Asheville Civic Center. exhibit chronicles mining activity in North Carolina, The Colburn facilitates more than The museum’s collections continued to 10,000 educational experiences a year. Last grow, and in 1982, the museum became including the activities of prehistoric Native Americans, year alone, Colburn educators taught hands- an independent nonprofit and changed its on, interactive Earth and physical science name to the Colburn Gem and Mineral Spanish explorers and 20th- century Western North Caro- classes to more than 7,700 school children Museum. from public, private and home schools from Since July 1992, the museum has linians. Displays showcase North Carolina’s role as the 14 counties in North Carolina, as well as served the community from its home in the students from Tennessee and South Caro- multi-museum Pack Place Education, Arts first major producer of gold in the United States, com- lina. In addition to classes, the Colburn has and Science Center in downtown Ashe- after-school clubs — Junior Rockhounds ville. The museum changed its name to the mercial mining in the state and the variety of gemstones and Science Sisters — summer day camps. Colburn Earth Science Museum in 2002 to Spaces are available in all of our upcom- reflect the museum’s broadening mission found in North Carolina. Campers leaving Colburn with space helmets. The exhibit also has a replica ing summer day camps except the “Junior and Earth science-related exhibits, events Rockhounds” camp. and hands-on classes taught to thousands of of a gem mine, complete with a pretend from the North Carolina Geologic Survey children each year. dynamite charge and gem pockets. and rare books from the early part of the The Colburn Earth Science Museum’s The Colburn’s Gem Collection 20th century. IF Admission: $6 for adults 18- mission is to foster an appreciation for the includes more than 1,000 cut gemstones The Colburn’s signature annual event 59, $5 for students, children Earth and its resources and environments from around the world, including speci- is Gem Fest, a free, three-day gem and YOU 4-17, and adults 60 and older. through exhibits, educational programs mens from North Carolina. Garnet, mor- mineral show each Father’s Day weekend. GO Free for children under 4. and the care of its collection. The Colburn ganite, diamond, emerald, ruby, sapphire, Gem Fest is a fundraiser and a community Visit www.colburnmuseum. achieves its mission by creating experi- hiddenite, stibiotantalite, tourmaline and celebration of the museum and Earth sci- org ,or call (828) 254-7162 for more ences that educate and inspire our diverse topaz are just some of the breathtaking ence, particularly mineralogy, gemology and information. Follow the Colburn on community about the wonders of Earth gemstones on display. paleontology. Facebook at www.facebook.com/Colburn. science. The Colburn Earth Science Mu- Visitors explore meteorology and cli- The Colburn also partners with the Museum and on Twitter at www.twitter. seum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that depends matology through the museum’s Weather, Asheville chapter of the American Meteo- com/colburnmuseum.

22 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 Reel Take Reviewers: ∑∑∑∑∑ - Fantastic CHIP KAUFMANN is a film historian who ∑∑∑∑ - Pretty darn good also shares his love of classical music as a program ∑∑∑ - Has some good points host on WCQS- ∑∑ - The previews lied FM radio. ∑ - Only if you must MICHELLE KEENAN is M- Forget entirely a long time student For the latest REVIEWS, THEATER INFO of film, a and MOVIE SHOW TIMES, visit believer in Illustration of Michelle www.rapidrivermagazine.com the magic of & Chip by Brent Brown. movies and a fundraiser for BRENT BROWN is a graphic Questions/Comments? public radio. designer and illustrator. You can email Chip or Michelle at View more of his work at [email protected] www.brentbrown.com.

The A-Team ∑∑∑ reprises the role that brought him noto- of this works together to create likeable Short Take: A 21st Century big-screen, riety in the states, that of Aldous Snow, characters and an amiable story. big-budget adaptation of the 1980’s the over-sexed, larger-than-life British You know if you’re a candidate for this television show. rock star from Forgetting Sarah Marshall. kind of comedy or not. If you are, you’ll Get Him to the Greek is not a sequel, but enjoy it. If not, spare the rest of us the REEL TAKE: If you have little to no rather a new story about the funniest char- snobby diatribe and go see something else. familiarity or affection for the 1980’s acter in the previous film. In fact there is television show The A-Team, you should Rated R for strong sexual content and drug only the briefest of references to FSM and use throughout, and pervasive language. pretty much pass on the new film based it’s in classic Aldus Snow style. REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN on the series. If, on the other hand, you But I digress; said mild-as-milk toast are familiar with said vintage prime time schlep must get said over-the-top fare you’ll probably enjoy the heck out of rock star to his big come-back concert Jonah Hex this 21st century, big screen, big budget on time. Strangely enough P. Diddy ∑∑∑ adaptation. The A-Team movie is exactly Bradley Cooper, Sharlto Copley, Liam plays the record-label executive who Short Take: what it’s supposed to be, nothing more, Neeson, and Quinton ‘Rampage’ has charged our young hero with said There’s no way nothing less. Jackson in the big screen adaptation of task. This is obviously easier said than this train wreck The A-Team television series fea- the 1980’s hit show The A-Team. done, and the results are a madcap of a movie tured George Peppard as the ring leader st should be so flash folks – it’s supposed to be an action 21 century, twenty-something, of an outlaw, do-gooding band of soldiers laugh out loud comedy. The problem entertaining, who pulled off risky jobs that ‘couldn’t be flick and a comedy. Is it over the top? Yes. but it is. Does it get a little too convoluted for its though is that, in keeping with many done.’ The series made Mr. T a household movies of the 21st century so far, it REEL TAKE: name and kept the whole gang in high own good? Yes. More importantly, it’s a has little staying power. Everything you’ve cotton throughout the early and mid 80’s. ridiculously fun thrill ride. In sum, it’s a It’s not that it’s not funny – it is. heard about Jonah This go-round, the brains of the unit, Col. popcorn movie that’s pure entertainment. It’s actually quite a funny movie and Hex is true. The Hannibal Smith, is played by Liam Nee- For my money, “I love it when a plan a notch up from the film’s [sort of] story lacks any son. The ‘Face’ and con man of the unit comes together.” p.s. stay ‘till the very end prequel. Writer/Director Jason Stoller, sense of coher- is played by Bradley Cooper, and relative of the closing credits. who actually did direct Forgetting ency, the editing new comers Sharlto Copley and Quinton Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of Sarah Marshall worked with some of is drastic, the con- ‘Rampage’ Jackson round out the team as Josh Brolin as action and violence throughout, language the characters invented by Jason Segel tinuity is shaky at ‘Mad dog’ Murdock, the pilot and B.A. and smoking. the disfigured bounty (also from FSMl), but took this story best, and Megan Baracus, the brawn. hunter seeking revenge REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN to slightly darker level than Segel and in Jonah Hex. Fox’s role could The chemistry in the original was part other con- just as easily have of the fun and it is in this go ‘round too. Get Him to the temporaries (think been played by a dog (or a cat). However They play to great strength as an en- ∑∑∑ Judd Apatow) do. that doesn’t keep it from being one of the semble. Individually, three out of the four Greek Unfortunately more purely enjoyable movies that the do a spot-on job inhabiting these familiar Short Take: A there are a few too summer has had to offer so far. characters, but giving them new life. Suru- hapless record label many puke scenes The primary reason for this falls to prisingly Liam Neeson is the only one that employee is given and the like, but Josh Brolin and John Malkovich. They just didn’t quite own the smoothness of the responsibility of when they break know their dialogue is just plain ridicu- Peppard’s Col. Smith. He’s completely retrieving an out-of- control rock-n-roll free of the juvenile lous yet they mouth it with just the right likeable, but there’s a certain something star and getting him bits, it’s really amount of mock seriousness to make it missing. However, considering he was back to the Greek quite good. Hill fun to listen to. While watching this I working just after a great personal tragedy, Theatre in Los and Brand have couldn’t help but think of The Wild, Wild he does an amazingly good job, and he is Angeles in time for great chemistry, West, the TV show not the Will Smith - solid as the ringleader for the gang. Jonah Hill and Russell Brank give his big come-back and who knew Selma Hayek fiasco of a few years ago. We Director Joe Carnahan (Smokin’ new definition to the ‘buddy picture’ Get concert. Diddy was funny? have a super villain (Malkovich) who plans Aces) is the ideal person for the job. Hav- Him to the Greek (and who knew The best part to blow up Washington D.C. with a new ing grown up with the television show REEL TAKE: While P. Diddy was funny?!) is, regardless of secret weapon. President Ulysses S. Grant he sets the film up as nice homage and they’re not exactly rock star or schlep, Stoller isn’t afraid (the movie is set in 1876) turns to the only as good entrée into the new generation. Hope & Crosby, Jonah Hill and Russell to show the vulnerable sides of both of person who can stop him, a facially scarred From there he’s it’s all out over-the-top Brand may be the new poster boys for the his main characters. He also imbues an bounty hunter who can talk to the dead. action and silliness. It has been criticized buddy picture. Jonah Hill is Aaron Green, a hapless record label account rep. Brand otherwise tasteless comedy with heart. All for this by some film reviewers. News- ‘Movies’ continued on page 24

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 23 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews

‘Movies’ continued from page 23 Prince of Persia: The Sands kingdom. With the help of the TEEN entertained. Jonah Hex is based on a lesser known ∑∑∑ DC comic book figure from the 1970s. I of Time 1/2 dagger and Princess Tamina The instances had never heard of the character before this Akin to Hitman and Lara Croft: (Gemma Arterton), he sets out to REVIEW when they movie came out but he apparently has his Tomb Raider, Prince of Persia is yet clear his name and inadvertently by Clara Sofia use the dagger admirers. They were not happy with this another movie that is based on a video save the world. to go back in film at all, giving it a less than 20% rating game. It tells the story of Prince Dastan For a film that is based on time are fun on Rotten Tomatoes. Lighten up I say. Just (Jake Gyllenhaal), a boy off the streets a video game, I thought that to watch, and because it isn’t good doesn’t mean that it of Persia, who Prince of Persia was I found myself genuinely curious to find isn’t fun. Unfortunately by the time you is chosen by the surprisingly good. It out who was the traitor in the kingdom. read this, Jonah Hex will be long gone king to join the keeps the viewer’s I recommend this film to anyone having been one of the biggest box office royal family and attention and is who is looking for a good summer bombs of the year. his discovery of able to form a fairly action-adventure movie. The use of From what I’ve read about the film’s a magic dagger complex plot. The parkour, a French type of martial arts, convoluted history, it seems that they which enables dialogue is not as is interesting to see and makes some of shot the film in April 2009. The preview the user to turn good as it could be, the action sequences unique. However, audience and the fanboys didn’t like it. back time. When and the chemistry Prince of Persia is not an especially (too humorous and not dark enough). The Dastan is accused between Tamina and memorable movie, and while one prob- executives panicked as Hollywood execu- of a crime he did Dastan leaves some- ably cannot gather anything meaningful tives are wont to do and ordered extensive not commit, he thing to be desired, from it, it is a fun journey to go on and reshoots in January 2010 to add the missing becomes a fugitive but the action and worth seeing once. and must find out Prince Dastan (Jake Gyllenhaal) the whodunit aspect elements. As often happens in cases like must recover a magic dagger in order Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of this the new, improved version fared even who is causing of the movie is violence and action. to save the world in Prince of Persia: enough to keep one worse with preview audiences but by this trouble in the The Sands of Time. time it was too late. So after showing trail- ers geared to Megan Fox’s fanbase they released the film and it died a very quick death. I’m reminded of how Warner Broth- ers did much the same thing with their big I’m sure there was a much better film increase the alienation that the kid, Dre him being Will Smith’s son. budget adaptation of The Avengers back in here than the one that Warners released Parker (Jaden Smith), feels. He is truly In case you’re unfamiliar with the 1998 when they cut almost an hour out the but it really doesn’t matter. At 77 minutes a stranger in a strange land who has to original story, it’s a very simple one. film and then threw it into theaters. the film doesn’t outstay its welcome and learn to make the effort to adapt to his Kid gets bullied, kid learns to fight back if you look at it as a throwback to the old new surroundings. This time there’s a lot by learning self defense from an un- Saturday matinees where the purpose more than bullies that he must learn to likely source. Kid takes part in martial was simply to entertain you than the film overcome. arts tournament and… learns a few life works quite well on that level. Too bad it The role of the mother (Taraji P. lessons along the way. Throw in the Chi- Theatre Directory cost so much to make. Henson) is expanded and the relation- nese and American outlooks and what ship between her and her son is more each one has to offer and you have the Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company Rated PG-13 for sequences of violence, action and some sexuality. developed than the first time around. blueprint for a winner that goes beyond Movieline (828) 254-1281 the scope of the original. www.ashevillepizza.com REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN Photographed on location in China, Beaucatcher Cinemas (Asheville) ∑∑∑∑ the film works just as well as a travel- Movieline (828) 298-1234 The Karate Kid ogue, taking us to the Great Wall and Biltmore Grande Short Take: A little overlong into the Forbidden City in Beijing as 1-800-FANDANGO #4010 but better than the original with well as the less exotic parts of the city. It www.REGmovies.com great performances from Jackie is a beautiful film to look at along with a Chan and Jaden Smith. Carmike 10 (Asheville) typically effective, emotional score from Movieline (828) 298-4452 REEL TAKE: In this climate of James Horner that knows what buttons to www.carmike.com the perpetual remake, it’s nice to push and when. see one that justifies remaking the The one drawback for me is that at Carolina Cinemas original by being better without to- 140 minutes the film is simply too long (828) 274-9500 tally dissing the first film. That’s the although the audience I was with didn’t www.carolinacinemas.com case with this redux of the beloved seem to mind it at all. Two hours max Cinebarre (Asheville) 1984 original. Norwegian director would have been fine but it’s a small www.cinebarre.com Harald Zwart (Agent Cody Banks) Jackie Chan teaches Jaden Smith martial quibble. Is The Karate Kid manipulative? arts in the remake of The Karate Kid. The Falls Theatre (Brevard) is finally given a film that gives him Of course it is, that’s the whole point of Movieline (828) 883-2200 the opportunity to do something the story and this type of entertainment. Mr Miagi has become Mr Han (Jackie There’s nothing wrong with manipula- Fine Arts Theatre (Asheville) more than paint by the numbers and he makes the most of it. I now wholeheart- Chan) who also has a family secret which tion when it’s done this well. As for the Movieline (828) 232-1536 is discovered in a marvelous scene that fact that he’s learning kung-fu and not www.fineartstheatre.com edly forgive him for Pink Panther 2, one of the worst sequels ever. is powerfully emotional without being karate, give me a break! Flat Rock Theatre (Flat Rock) Zwart and screenwriter Christo- overdone. Here Chan gets a chance to Rated PG-13 for bullying, martial arts Movieline (828) 697-2463 pher Murphey expand the scope of the play a rare dramatic scene and he takes to action, and mild language. www.flatrockcinema.com first film by moving the action to China it like a duck to water. Jaden Smith con- REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN Four Seasons (Hendersonville) which allows for the action to be a reflec- tinues to develop the promise he showed Movieline (828) 693-8989 tion of the differences between West- in The Pursuit of Happyness. Someday Will Smith will be his father instead of Smoky Mountain Cinema (Waynesville) ern and Eastern culture. This helps to ‘Movies’ continued on page 25 Movieline (828) 452-9091

24 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews

‘Movies’ continued from pg. 24 essential if you’re going to pull off a film of this genre. Let it suffice to say that Tom and Cameron do have the chemistry and Asheville Film Society they are having absolutely too much fun which means that the audience is involved ell it’s official. As of May AFS screenings, costs and having fun too. 25, 2010 the Asheville Film only $10 and entitles The other key ingredient necessary Society is up and running, you to certain benefits to making a film like this work is that it which is a good thing with such as ticket dis- needs a strong supporting cast. Viola Da- the recent announcement counts, special screenings, and free refills vis, Paul Dano, Jordi Molla , and especially Wthat the Asheville Film Festival will no on popcorn. Peter Sarsgaard as the principal villain longer be funded by the city and is going do very well with their respective parts on hiatus for this year. FILM SCHEDULE FOR JULY although Davis’ is somewhat underwrit- Every Tuesday evening at 8 the AFS July 6: David Lynch’s Blue Velvet. ten. No matter. Throw in exciting cam- will screen a wide variety of films in the July 13: Tarsem Singh’s The Fall. erawork, seamless CGI, and an effective upstairs cinema lounge at the Carolina soundtrack and you have a real winner on Cinemas on Hendersonville Road. July 20: Richard Lester’s second Beatles Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise relax your hands. A great movie, no but a very Movies shown in June included Blood film Help! for a moment in Knight and Day. good one and one that will continue to Simple, Rushmore, The Life and Times July 27: the 1934 version of Imitation entertain for many years to come. of Harvey Milk, Twentieth Century ∑∑∑∑ of Life with Claudette Colbert. Knight and Day Rated PG-13 for sequences of action vio- and Francis Ford Coppola’s most recent Short Take: Ideal Summer movie is lence and brief strong language. offering Tetro. All movies are free and open to the public, but AFS members perfect for everyone with Tom Cruise REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN IF Asheville Film Society and Cameron Diaz having entirely too get certain bonuses. YOU Screenings, Tuesday much fun. If you’re interested in learning more evenings at 8 p.m. All The Secret in Their Eyes about the society and its aims, or would GO REEL TAKE: If there is any justice left movies are free and open ∑∑∑∑1/2 like to see the schedule for upcoming then Knight and Day will be a big suc- to the public and take films, go to their website, www.ashe- place in the Upstairs Cinema cess and Tom Cruise can get back to the Short Take: The well deserving winner of Best Foreign Film at the Oscars villefilm.org, and check it out. A yearly Lounge at Carolina Cinemas, 1640 business of being a movie star for at this this year, The Secret in Their Eyes is membership, which can be obtained at Hendersonville Road, in Asheville. point in his career, he needs a hit if he is a captivating suspense drama which to remain viable as a bankable commodity is not only deftly crafted but good at the box office. I have never been a big entertainment too. fan of his although I have enjoyed some of his movies. On the other hand his Oprah to write a novel based on a case that’s The Secret of Kells ∑∑∑∑ antics have never troubled me in the least haunted him for 25 years. His involve- and they certainly haven’t stopped me Short Take: Intriguing animated ment in the case of a brutally raped and film concerning the creation of the from seeing any of his movies as it appar- murdered woman, her bereaved husband, ently has with a lot of people. Medieval Book of Kells is a refreshing the disturbingly odd culprit, the politics of change of pace from today’s standard Cameron Diaz could use a big hit as the judicial system and a beautiful young in-your-face animated features. well for not only have her recent movies attorney have ever altered his life. It’s as underperformed but as an American actress if by penning the book he will be granted REEL TAKE: Remember 2003’s The Trip- and box office attraction she is nearing the relief and maybe even resolution. The lets of Belleville ? Well the same produc- dread age of 40 (she’s 37). Will she be the story unfolds elegantly between present tion company (Les Amateurs) that brought next Susan Sarandon or the next Michelle day and 1974. us that animated feature is back with The Pfeiffer? Only time will tell. While we The cast, direction and photography Secret of Kells. As the title suggests, this Soledad Villamil and Ricard Darin ponder the insignificance of such a ques- all work together as an ensemble. It is the film tells the story of the creation of the tion, it’s time to move on to more perti- star in the very worthy Oscar winner 9th century Book of Kells, an illumi- The Secret in Their Eyes. strength of this ensemble that draws the nent matters like “How is the movie?” viewer in and envelopes you in the story. I nated manuscript of the four Gospels of Very well, thank you very much. was particularly drawn in by the merits of the New Testament. Illuminated means REEL TAKE: I really, really hope that the In fact I was pleasantly surprised at how Darin. He possesses a quality of empathy, painstakingly hand colored in rich tapestry Argentinean film The Secret in Their Eyes good it actually was considering most of likeability and a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ like designs as well as large flowing let- is still playing at the Fine Arts Theatre the negative reviews it has been receiving. that make him a very engaging presence. ters. If you’ve ever seen pictures of it (try in downtown Asheville (or elsewhere in This is Mission Impossible (all three of I don’t believe I’ve ever seen this actor Google), you’d never forget it. the vicinity) by the time this issue goes them) with a sense of humor. It harks back before, but he seemed so familiar, like an Since the exact origins of The Book to print. If it is, be sure to see it. In spite to such 1960s offerings as Charade with old friend. of Kells are lost in the mists of time, this of subtitles, this film is not just for the Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn or Ca- I saw a screener of this film under less film creates its own story of how it came art-house crowd. Its broad audience appeal price with Richard Harris and Doris Day than ideal conditions. If this movie could to be. is being invaded by Vikings st is part of what makes The Secret in Their only made louder for 21 century audi- make such an impression on me, given the and the Abbott of the monastery of Kells Eyes such a captivating film. ences with a few too many explosions. Of circumstances, then it really is something is busy trying to construct a wall to keep When this little gem took home the more recent vintage you can add Bird on a worthwhile. Imagine what how much you them out. His young nephew Brendan is Oscar for Best Foreign Film earlier this Wire with Mel Gibson and Goldie Hawn. will enjoy it (I hope) on the big screen. captivated by tales of a fabulous book be- year, there was some dismay and discussion The story of two people on the run This is the first film I’ve seen in a long ing created by monks at another monas- that it should have gone to The White Rib- from the authorities who eventually fall in time that is not disposable the minute you tery. When one of the illustrators, Brother bon. For my money the better film won. love is a tried and true formula that dates finish watching it. Find out what The Se- Aidan, comes to Kells to seek shelter, The Secret in Their Eyes is a deftly crafted, back to Alfred Hitchcock and The 39 Steps cret in Their Eyes is. You won’t be sorry. Brendan gets the opportunity to work with in 1935. As with all the movies I have tight suspense drama that never misses a him much to his uncle’s displeasure who mentioned, there is a successful chemis- beat, is also a great piece of entertainment. Rated R for a rape scene, violent images, sees no value in such artistic endeavors. try between the stars which is absolutely Benjamin Esposito (Ricardo Darin) some graphic nudity and language. is a recently retired lawyer who decides REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN ‘Movies’ continued on page 26

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews

‘Movies’ continued from page 25 movies it reminds me portunity to secretly horrific scenes, it is far too cerebral for of (borrows from) create another life its own good which was borne out by In order to do this, Brendan must almost all of them form this time us- audience exit polls which were strongly secretly leave the monastery to search for better or at least more ing human DNA. negative. Once again studio mismarket- berries and herbs to make ink. While outside enjoyable. Bride of The results are a ing rears its ugly head. People expecting he meets a shape shifting spirit, Aisling, Frankenstein, Alien, very humanoid a slice and dice creature feature got more who shows him the wonders of the forest. Rosemary’s Baby, looking creature than they bargained for or wanted and the The knowledge Brendan picks up will serve Ang Lee’s Hulk, the with the ability to resulting negative word of mouth doomed him in good stead later. The Vikings do 1977 and 1996 ver- transform herself the picture in a hurry. attack, destroy the monastery, and Brendan sions of The Island of (yes, it’s a girl) into While there is much to admire in is believed dead. This enables him to set out Dr Moreau to name Delphine Chaneac as the creation various aspects of Splice including three terrific performanc- on a journey to bring the book to fruition, a some of the better and Sarah Polley as the creator in the other animals. es (Brody, Polley and French actress Del- journey that takes several years. In the end known ones and es- derivative sci-fi flick Splice. On one level phine Chaneac as Dren), I am inclined to the book is completed and Brendan returns pecially a little known Splice is a movie agree with the preview audiences though to Kells where it all began. one, Ralph Nelson’s 1976 Embryo with about parenting with the creature who they not for quite the same reasons. I have no Rock Hudson and Barbara Carrera. name Dren (nerd spelled backwards) be- problem with it wanting to be more than The story involves a pair of research coming their surrogate child. She develops just another creature feature but the film scientists (Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley) very rapidly becoming more human each takes itself way too seriously. Director who have created an artificial life form day and developing human emotions like Vincenzo Natali has crafted a good look- (two of them actually who are dubbed fear, jealousy, and of course desire. This ing film but it moves slowly, is 15 minutes Fred and Ginger) that can be used for naturally leads to complications involving too long, and fails to get us involved with genetic experiments by the pharmaceutical both “parents” that result in a couple of very the main characters. Plus you can see the company funding their research. They also moving scenes and one very uncomfortable ending coming a mile away. happen to be involved with each other. He one involving Adrien Brody. Rated R for nudity, strong sexuality, vio- wants children but she doesn’t (for good However Splice is being marketed as lence, and language. reasons it turns out) so they take the op- a horror film and while it contains several REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN The monk’s apprentice Brendan is introduced to the wonders of the forest by the Forest Spirit, Aisling in the animated feature The Secret of Kells. Chip Kaufmann’s Pick: Michelle Keenan’s Pick: “The Island of Doctor Moreau” July DVD Picks “The Green Zone” What makes The Secret of Kells so enjoyable is the various styles of animation that are used to bring the story to life. Un- The Island of Doctor Moreau and film are dashed and reviled by many like the full blown in your face sameness of (1996) as un-American and this is simply gross, most animation today, there is a deliberate narrow-minded, hollow propaganda. primitive quality in Kells which recalls the I had originally intended to make Ralph Nelson’s 1976 sci-fi/horror flick Under Paul Greengrass’ direction linear, limited drawing style of the 1950s the film is tightly executed, well shot and and 60s. The style also changes throughout Embryo my DVD pick for July. This was because of all the movies that the new entertaining – all of which are hallmarks the film so that by the end we have moved of his work. Damon, one of the hardest from the simple to a beautiful recreation of release Splice (reviewed in this issue) borrowed (stole?) from, it was the most working actors in Hollywood and some- the illuminated style of the book. one who seems to come to his roles so Outside of Brendan Gleeson as the purloined. Unfortunately, although it has been released on DVD, Embryo is authentically, plays Chief Warrant Officer voice of the head Abbott, the rest of the vo- Roy Miller. Miller is a good soldier and cal cast is made up of unknowns but they fit not available to be rented from Netflix or version has better production values and a good officer. He’s the kind of soldier their characters perfectly especially Christen anyone else for the time being so at the the added bonus of Marlon Brando in you want in your army. The fact that he Mooney as the forest spirit Aisling. Compli- last minute John Frankenheimer’s bizarre the strangest role of his career. It also has sees it as a moral imperative to ques- menting the visual style and the ideal voices 1996 version of The Island of Doctor Val Kilmer in one of the strangest roles tion intelligence that is unquestionably is a wonderful soundtrack of Celtic music Moreau came to the rescue. of his career. That combination along flawed, especially when he is told to ‘leave composed by Bruno Coulais. Co-directors To call the production troubled with Stan Winston’s superb “humani- it alone,’ is completely just. If another Tomm Moore and Nora Twomey are to be would be an understatement. Marlon mal” make-up (the movie is about DNA country dismantled the army of another congratulated for giving us something dif- Brando, in the title role, had the original alteration gone awry) make for a perfect nation and went to war on lies, the US ferent, an animated work of great originality director fired and most of the original summer movie which looks even better would likely lead the charge to have the and beauty that can stand on its own merit script rewritten to suit him. John Fran- on a flat screen TV. leader of that country brought down and and is worth seeing more than once. Keep kenheimer (The Manchurian Candidate – 1962 version) was called in to salvage the tried for war crimes. your eyes peeled for the DVD. Exactly how much of Green Zone film and did his best and almost pulled it The Green Zone (2010) This feature is not rated. off. While not a good film, it is an abso- is true and how much is fiction I don’t Green Zone is based on the 2006 know but at the end of the day, it’s a REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN lutely fascinating one full of memorable non-fiction book “Imperial Life in the imagery. I have already forgotten most movie. WMD’s are an issue that was Emerald City” which documented life greatly ignored by the media, politicians Splice ∑∑∑1/2 of Splice but I still can see Moreau in my in the Green Zone in Baghdad in the mind’s eye. and most of all, by everyday Americans. SHORT TAKE: This well made version months leading up to the US invasion. Greengrass, Co-writer Brian Hege- of several recycled sci-fi and horror This film is the third version of the It was written by then Baghdad Bureau H. G. Wells story after Island of Lost land, Damon and a fine supporting cast, ideas should be better than it is. Chief for the Washington Post, Rajiv including Brendan Gleeson, Amy Ryan, Souls (1932) which is not available on Chandrasekaran. Regardless of your per- REEL TAKE: You know that you’re getting DVD and The Island of Dr. Moreau Greg Kinnear, Khalid Abdalla, have made older when almost every movie you see re- sonal opinion of the war or of ‘G.W,’ this a movie worth watching and one which is (1977 w/Burt Lancaster and Michael book should be mandatory reading for minds you of one you’ve seen before. In the York) which is. The Frankenheimer in no way un-American. case of Splice I can think of a least a dozen all Americans. Unfortunately the book

26 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE thoreau’s garden

Mosses in the Landscape BY PETER LOEWER

osses are familiar sive so when it overtakes other plants of shady habi- and slower-growing mosses, be tat. Some are aquatic; 1 prepared to cut back a bit. This many grow in soil 2 is a great species to start you or on rocks; the bark 3 moss garden. Mof trees, living and dead; stone 5. Cord moss (Funaria hygro- walls; broken sidewalks; brick metrica) has stalked capsules that buildings; and shingled roofs. are straight when wet and twisted The leafy growths of moss- like rope when dry. They react to es are really branches that arise minute changes in humidity, but from a spreading green filament 7 4 the process helps to spread spores produced by a germinating about. Look for this moss on spore. This green filament (or old, abandoned foundations and protonema) grows above and burned-over soil. below the soil surface and when mature, produces the branches 6. Hair-cap moss (Polytrichum and tiny roots (or rhizoids), the commune) is also called great roots being just deep enough to 5 Goldilocks and growing up to a hold the plant and absorb water, 6 foot long, can’t be missed. Spo- making mosses extremely easy rophytes appear in early spring to transplant. (sometimes late autumn), usually Most mosses prefer shade maturing in July. Most farmers because they have a poorly consider this moss a weed but developed water distribution Seven common mosses found in our area. years ago it was gathered by early system thus hot sun dries them Illustration by Peter Loewer Americans to stuff pillows when out before the water can reach feathers were not very handy. the thirsty cells. The hair-cap moss (Polytricum commune) This genus is found in many parts of the country and revels is our largest and most common moss — it often grows in in high humidity and abundant rainfall. open fields — but the overhanging grasses provide some 7. Pincushion moss (Leucobryum glaucum) forms large shade and the dew of morning often furnishes needed water. balls of moss exactly like its common names suggests. It’s Mosses are usually subject to rapid changes of moisture and also like a canary in a coal mine and when water begins to have developed the ability to fold-up their leaves when dry, get scarce and dews subside, the green changes to shades of markedly changing their appearance, because they certainly a gray-white. If introduced to a terrarium, they often give a look dehydrated. bonus of seedlings from nearby flowering plants. But when it comes to mosses, many gardeners try to We are very lucky to have a moss enthusiast in our area grow grasses in deep shade and are usually unhappy with the and if you want to learn more about these fascinating plants results. But if they switched to having a moss garden, not travel electronically to the Website of Mossin’ Annie (Annie only is it a thing of beauty during the warm months of the Martin), at www.mountainmoss.com. year, moss gardens are truly glorious during the cold seasons. Seven Common Mosses of Our Area 1. Sphagnum moss (Sphagnum capillifolium) is the com- Peter Loewer, shown here, examining mon species found in wet and boggy places. As the sphag- the blossoms of early-blooming num matures, the older parts of the plant begin to decay, Lenten roses, is a well-known writer while the younger moss continues to grow on the top. That and botanical artist who has written decayed moss eventually becomes peat moss and over eons it and illustrated more than twenty-five can slowly encircle and fill small ponds and become quag- books on natural history over the mires — but your backyard is surely safe. past thirty years. 2. Feather moss (Hypnum crista-castrensis) forms dense masses of yellow-green, plum-like branches and is one of our most beautiful mosses. Look for it on rich woodsy soil, under the shade of trees. Works by Sara Le Van at Asheville 3. Woodsy mnium — try saying that three times in a quick manner — has the scientific name of Mnium cuspidatum and Gallery of Art is quite common in many habitats, especially in moist soil or The exhibit, “Over, humus, decayed logs and stumps, and often on the bark of Through and Un- trees and on rocks. When dry, it quickly shrinks and the tiny der”, will contain leaves look like wrinkled tissue paper. When water is again paintings describing available, the little leaves become a bright glossy green. Green nature’s wonder. An sporophytes appear above the moss on short wiry stems are opening reception will be held Friday, July 2 from 5 often one of the first active sights of spring. to 8 p.m. The public is cordially invited. The gallery is 4. Fern moss (Thudium delicatulum) grows in dense mass located at 16 College Street in downtown Asheville. For on earth, stones, and dead tree branches, looking much more information call (828) 251-5796, or visit www. like fine embroidery that’s been carefully crafted with a ashevillegallery-of-art.com. On display through Satur- lustrous, dark green thread. This species can be a bit inva- day, July 31, 2010.

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE arts & music

see how in synch with Red- ‘CD’s’ continued from page 17 ding they were, swinging from “I Just Find This Stuff in the Dirt!” Otis Redding gritty in your voice Southern soul to rapturous gospel in a THE MULTI-FACETED WORLD OF LUCILE STEPHENS Live on the Sunset Strip moment’s time. Stax Records The band, in particular hat was my new Although Otis Redding’s the bass/drum combo of Ralph studio-mate Lu- BY GREG VINEYARD historic 1966 stand at Holly- Stewart and Elbert Woodson, cile Stephens’ wood’s Whisky a Go Go has is inspired and near perfect. response when I I must mention been previously chronicled — first with Even when Redding mangles a lyric or the noticed her cool here “the smoking man the ten songs 1968 release and with 1993’s band misses a beat — both of which are Tmetal pendant while we installation”. That’s MY volume two — this is the first time the preserved here for posterity — it just adds were greeting visitors name for it. “Buddy, entire four night run has been given the to the potent immediacy of these record- during our June Studio Do You Have a Light?” royal treatment it deserves. ings. Redding was only 24 when he played Stroll. She turned it is characteristically And unlike the previous expanded these gigs and, as we all too tragically over to show how she tongue-in-cheek, yet version this is no simple collection of out know, in a scant 26 months he’d be gone. had attached the clasp to also makes a visual takes and alternate tracks; it is three entire It is impossible to overstate his influ- the back. BAM! Instant and conceptual state- sets as Redding & His Orchestra Live tear ence and even more futile to attempt any industrial jewelry. ment. The tonality of through the songs with wild abandon and speculation as to what might have been. Since arriving in the white acrylic on a ferocity that borders on frightening. And The music left behind is all we have and the River Arts District in the clay bust comple- while Redding most frequently recorded unless other recordings are found and 2008, I have continuous- ments the old, green with either the Bar-Kays or Booker T. & deemed worthy of release that will have ly marveled at Lucile’s flea-market chair. No. the MG’s for this occasion he assembled a to suffice. creativity, ingenuity 4 pencil scribbles and ten piece “orchestra” who, along with the These tracks go a long way towards and humility. Not to paint crackles provide a back up singers, were as much the stars of soothing the pain of Redding’s early de- mention her output. No “Trees in the Distance” subtle pattern relation- Acrylic by Lucile Stephens the show as is the man himself. mise as well as a stark reminder — if any medium is off-limits ship. The diminutive It takes but one listen to “These Arms need be given — as to what a loss it was. due to her wide-ranging skills and limitless scale of the bust helps bring a fragile per- of Mine” –at the conclusion of which the At 28 songs Live on the Sunset Strip may curiosity. And the time-honored tradition sona into focus: decades have been spent on band cuts into a torrid make it up as you be a bit of excess but what glorious excess of picking up cool junk serves her well. A the porch, and we’re now seeing a twilight go along version of “Satisfaction” — to it is. ****1/2 life-long artist, Lucile graduated from the moment in an old man’s day. But the scene University of Georgia with a BFA in Draw- is not necessarily a sad one. He’s just simply ing and Painting, and an MFA in Art Educa- having a cigarette. tion. After teaching in the public school My interpretation of this piece is far system for a quarter century, her retirement more specific than Lucile’s intentions, but has become, as she says, “consumed with that’s part of the excitement of seeing new art-making.” Sensing endless possibilities in art: reaction! She just has this innate sense all materials, Lucile unflinchingly embraces with a variety of materials and techniques, it all in her treks into N.A.R.’s (“New Ar- and a passion for creating. Period. You’ll tistic Realms”). Several years back, she took never hear her brag about herself or get up welding, resulting in a vast array of new involved in drama. Her boldest statement is: works. Metal, clay, wood, paint, mixed-me- “Art is my life. I couldn’t function without dia… the breadth and depth of her creations it.” That rings true for a great many artists, is astounding. and I’m lucky she lives that creed, for I get Lucile’s material combinations are to stay inspired by the simple elegance, wit, inventive. An old, upside down cooking pot perseverance and style of her creations. becomes a stand for an elegant clay sculp- ture. Flowing driftwood sticks out of the top of a hand-carved vase. Lively horse torsos IF Lucile Stephen’s work can be leap from slabs of metal and wood. The seen at Constance Williams contrasts are often lovely, not just because YOU Gallery, 9 Riverside Dr. in they are unexpected (and fun), but also due GO Asheville. Open Every Day to her color sense and object choices. Her 11 to 4 p.m., and during the metal raven sculpture simply rests atop a River Arts District’s monthly “Second couple 1940’s books, evoking Poe. And her Fridays” event from 4 to 7 p.m. titles often perfectly reflect the feeling of the work, like “A Bowl Full of Howlers” and “Off the Top of My Head.” Greg Vineyard is an artist In my private collection, I now have a and creative consultant burnished prehistoric fish, a square tray that in Asheville’s River Arts District, where he and his looks like Picasso made it, a steel sculpture Ceramics For Contemplation where Lucile appears to have channeled a & Creativity can be found in 1920’s Russian Constructivist and an acrylic Constance Williams Gallery (Open Every Day landscape with bright orange trees holding 11-4). CURVEstudiosNC.com. guard over a rocky field.

“Art is my life. I couldn’t function without it.”

28 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 CRAFT BEER, RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE A LOOK INTO joe’s brew notes THE FUTURE PART 4 She Said Beer, He Said Wine: Brew News Green Man Brewing is open every day Create a Dinner with Beer and Wine Selections for Each Course at 7 a.m. to show World Cup matches. Beer fans; their “Easy Rider” Wheat, his is the final installment of a beer visit your an American style wheat ale, is now BY JOE ZINICH 4-part series that looks into craft favorite wine on tap. beer’s future. Previous articles and/or beer store The Pint House hosts Sean Wilson spoke to the industry’s meteoric for consultations the same ap- former president of Pop the Cap – the growth, the drivers of that growth, with experts. proach with the group that got the law changed to al- Tthe ever-growing availability of flavorful Or, you could beer selection. low a new variety of full-flavored beer beers, and the many ways to explore and ask an invited Continue in to be produced and sold in North enjoy them. This column combines the guest – a beer, this manner for Carolina – will present his Fullsteam information in earlier articles with the new wine “geek” the courses that Brewery “southern beer” to Asheville in this one to help you create a dinner event – to make the remain. Discus- beer lovers. A special ticketed-event that will excite and please your friends. choices. A more sions can be is planned for July 19 that includes For guidance on how to present a din- adventuresome prompted with 4 different beers, a matching food ner with both beer and wine for each course, approach is to A toast to flavors at the 12 Bones, information (ob- tasting menu, and an opportunity to I asked Julie Atallah (Brusin’ Ales) and Rob ask friends to Brusin’ Ales dinner. tained on line or listen to and speak with Sean. For Campbell (Wine Guy) for their suggestions. bring a sample from an expert) more information, ticket prices, and As an example, they chose the beer and wine of favorite wines and beers. Be flexible; be on each beverage and food selection or en- availability visit monkpub.com. to complement the dinner menu shown in creative. There are many ways to create great tirely impromptu, whichever works best. Their second anniversary will be the sidebar. Their advice on how to plan and flavor combinations. Just remember the Attend a beer/wine dinner and learn celebrated on July 3 with the intro- conduct a dinner follow. basic rule – the flavor of the beverage should from the professionals; throw a dinner with duction of their version of the Randall Julie and Rob both suggested two ways not overpower the flavor of the food and the help of professionals; or create a dinner called the “Holy Hopper”. The Ran- to prepare for this type of dinner. Start with vice versa. from your own imagination. Each choice dall is a device that allows infusion of the choice of the beer and wine to be served Once the food, beer, and wine selec- is a fun way to entertain and to share in the interesting, delicious, and sometimes and decide on the menu, or start with the tions are made, consider time frame, portion discovery of new flavor combinations. challenging flavors into beer. menu and decide on the beer and wine size, beverage amount, tasting order, and This four part series was designed to to serve. The easier way is to begin with (more formally) discussion topics and de- encourage active participation in the craft Asheville won the Beer City USA title the menu. Also, be clear on the purpose tailed information. Plan for the dinner to be beer revolution. The articles provided ideas for the second year in a row. A testi- of the get-together -- a focus on the food a 2-3 hour event. Allow time to enjoy each and tools to begin or enhance the experi- mony to our brewers, their beer, and and flavors or on events planned around course, each wine and beer, and for discus- ence. The Craft Beer scene in general and the Asheville beer community. Of the dinner (for example a birthday party). sion. Portions should be relatively small; Asheville’s in particular is a very social world course some “sore loser” comments Under all circumstances plan with a sense tapas size. Serve 3 to 4 ounces of wine and of fun and flavor; enjoy. came from the wanna-be cities, but of fun and adventure. 4 to 6 ounces of beer with each course; just to them I say, “we may not have the The menu itself can be very informal enough for guests to taste, savor and return For eight years, Joe Zinich most breweries or the most festivals (five types of pizza from your favorite piz- home safely. has been taking a self- but we do have the most enthusiastic zeria) or, if you love to cook, a multi-course At the start, suggest everyone take a sip guided, high-intensity tour supporters. Deal with it!” dinner from appetizer to dessert. Whatever of the wine and appreciate its flavor. Next, of the Asheville beer scene. your menu there is a wine and a beer selec- sample a portion of food with the wine and Brewgrass sold out in 21 hours; Contact him at: jzinich@ good news for the organizers and the tion to complement the food and spice up consider the flavor combination. Follow this bellsouth.net. the conversation. To select each wine and with a sip of water to cleanse the palate. Use people who got tickets, bad news for the local, long-time supporters who didn’t. Perhaps we, as a group, could Beer/Wine Dinner Menu suggest to the Brewgrass folks to sup- port local by selling tickets at select he following menu was developed Borracho Beef Short Ribs with Fennel Au Smoked Skate Wings with Citrus Salad local stores and breweries for a week by 12 Bones smokehouse (12bones. Gratin and Plantain Puree of Clementines and Meyers Lemons. and then offer them online; the Beer com) for a beer dinner sponsored Beer Selection: CA, Bear Republic Big Bear Beer Selection: , Plank Bavarian City model. T jointly with Brusin’ Ales. The menu black stout: Full Bodied with a roasted scent Hefeweizen: the style goes well with sea- came first and Julie and Jason Atallah chose and flavor that complements the beef. This food, Plank has a hint of banana and clove The first annual Brew Off, Asheville’s the beers. I asked Rob Campbell to recom- version is loaded with hops that contrast with to complement the salad. home brew competition & tast- mend wine choices. What follows is an the fennel. Wine Selection: CA, Pomelo 2008 Sauvi- ing, was held in the Wedge Brewery opportunity to learn from the experts. parking lot with well over 40 brews Wine Selection: Australia: Rawley “Raw Power” gnon Blanc: the style with its crisp acidity available to taste. It was presented Lamb Sausage with Sage and Apricots 2008 Shiraz: Australian Shiraz are big, rich complements fish. The California versions wines with fruity, licorice flavors. Will stand up have a whisper of smokiness. by the non-profit organization Just and a Parmesan, Baby Artichoke Economics (justeconomicswnc. Risotto well to strong flavors of the short ribs while the Duck Confit Taquito with Fig, Goat licorice enhances the fennel. org), an advocacy group for a strong, Beer Selection: DE, Dogfish Head Aprihop, cheese and Lavender Dipping Sauce sustainable WNC economy, and was an IPA made with apricots. IPA’s work well Honey Lager Gelato with Cornbread Beer Selection: England,Traquair Jacobite, a rousing success. Attendance was with spicy, rich foods. The apricot flavor in Biscuits and Roasted Brazil Nuts Scotch Ale spiced with coriander: this strong and our local home brewers this version pairs well with the risotto. ale presents a beefy but complementary Beer Selection: , Bier du Miel, Saison contrast to the duck. The coriander flavor excited the crowd with flavors that Wine Selection: France, Houchart 2006 with honey: a hint of honey sweetness with a supports the sauce. were a challenge and a delight. Cuvee Rouge, is a Shiraz/Cabernet blend: champagne effervescence. Shiraz pairs well with lamb but is to light Wine Selection: OR, Bethel Heights 2008 Wine Selection: , Sant’ Evasio 2009 for the spices in sausage. The addition of Pinot Noir: this grape has an earthy but Moscato d’Ast: made with muscato grapes Visit www.rapidrivermagazine.com to read all four Cabernet adds weight. The French blends light flavor great with duck. Its level of acid- which have a honey character. The Sant’ Eva- parts of “Craft Beer, a Look into the Future.” are earthy with an aromatic spiciness. ity (the French versions are too acidic) does sio is a light, slightly sweet sparkler. not overpower the sauce.

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art Paris of the South?

f you have lived in Watercolors by Lisa Asheville for any Ringelspaugh-Irvine length of time you have most likely Left: Scandal in the heard Asheville com- Grove. “My favorite I building in Asheville. pared to Paris. I can easily see the Who knows? Maybe controversial Madam there is something to it... waiting to dance on after all, Asheville is a the rooftop under the very romantic place, and stars… and maybe there is no lack of culture, she’ll go home with…” diversity and nightlife. Our city has played muse Below: Busking to many notable artists, for Rubles. “Often crafters, poets, and writ- there’s a classical ers. Recently, we even musician playing in had our own art heist just this storefront. Who like the famous museums better to join in, than of Paris. Chagall’s blue and Lisa Ringelspaugh purple violinists? Oh is a longtime resident yes, I know Chagall was Russian, not and professional painter French.” known for her lively wa- tercolor interpretations of local landmarks. Inspired painters and artisans in by turn-of-the-century diverse media and styles. Paris, Lisa asked herself, Gallery manager Phil “If those artists vis- DeAngelo says, “Lisa is ited Asheville, then what a serious painter, and would happen?” Her new in this case, she’s also “Dream Series” answers with a touch of shown us how seriously funny she can be.” whimsy, a healthy dose of imagination and BlackBird Frame & Art is an indepen- plenty of artistic license. Through Lisa’s dent art gallery and custom frame studio brush, Matisse, Gauguin, Chagall and Dali owned by Pat and John Horrocks. have finally come to visit our fair city and have reinterpreted their favorite works in a new southern Appalachian light. IF Asheville Dream Series by “Paris of the South?” is a fun, artistic YOU Lisa Ringelspaugh-Irvine. romp through the city of Asheville, from GO Opening Reception Friday, Kim’s Wig Shop to the S&W Cafeteria, and July 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. certain to bring a smile to your face. Join Lisa at BlackBird Frame & Art, 365 on Friday evening for a special night of wine, Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. refreshments, and stimulating conversation. Show dates: July 8 - July 24, 2010. Visit BlackBird’s gallery located at 365 Mer- www.blackbirdframe.com for more rimon Avenue features the work of 25 local information, or phone (828) 252-6036.

30 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE restaurants & wine Sangria, on the Sand and on the Grass PLUS, FLAG-WAVING DRINKS, AND A SHORT HISTORY ABOUT PUNCH

cringed when I heard someone refer to Sangria Blanca BY MICHAEL PARKER my Sangria as punch. It took me back White wine sangria This is the perfect time to go to an old TV commercial for Polaner for the jug and the box. parts for the pink, and then your leftovers All Fruit where, at a formal dining table A 4 liter jug of “Rhine” wine for $11 will be red and white instead of pink, if that sat a mostly formal family. The black 2 cups Sugar (optional, how sweet matters to you. Layer first the Chambord, then the blue Isheep of the family said, in something of a do you want it?) Curaçao in a glass. Pour sour mix and vodka Texan accent, “Please pass the jelly.” The Juice of two fat Oranges Juice of two fat Lemons Fun with Layers: into cocktail shaker over ice, then shake and matriarch fainted. gently pour. However, it actually is a punch, so this 4-6 oz. of cheap Gallo brandy Flag-Wavin’ Drinks 4-6 oz. of cheap Triple Sec Cream can replace the vodka and sour is one of those situations where all Cham- mix if a milder drink is desired. pagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling Two thin-sliced Oranges Bomb Pop Shot wine is Champagne. After that, it really isn’t Two thin-sliced Lemons something to be argued about. Two handfuls of thin-sliced watermelon ½ oz. Grenadine Punch is a funny word for punch, Let it sit for a while for the flavors to blend. ½ oz. Blue Curaçao don’t you think? I always assumed it to be Hold the ice and club soda until serving time. ½ oz. Cream July at the Weinhaus of English or pre-English/Germanic origin, Make sure all your ingredients are cold, and Reservations are required for these thinking of Glühwein, Glögg, Wassail, and Sangria Roja then layer them in a shot glass. For a stron- events, please call the Weinhaus at (828) any of their descendants that took on added Red wine sangria ger version, you can substitute vodka for the 254-6453 or 1-800-283-1544. spirits and therefore packed a punch. Brits, I 5 liters of Cheap Red cream. For a cocktail, rather than just a shot, have had the impression, love a good punch simply double the measurements and use a Thursday, July 15 3 cups Sugar (optional) Chef/owner Larry Waldrop of the because they love a good fight. lowball glass. If you want ice, be sure to add 10 oz. Brandy (dark spiced rum Grovewood Café will prepare a five However, the word punch is the gift of is good, too) it last, and gently. course wine dinner with appetizers on the Persian and Hindi languages. The num- 6 Apples, thin-sliced the patio, weather permitting. The time ber five is behind the meaning of related 6 Pears, thin-sliced Bomb Pop Martini is 7:30 p.m. The cost is $65 all inclusive. words from both languages: paantsch, panj, 6 handfuls of thin-sliced Watermelon ½ oz. Grenadine and punj. It is an easier concept to remem- Splash of Lemon-Lime Soda Tuesday, July 27 Let it stand for several hours and hold the Kathmandu Café will present a dinner ber when you realize that the Punjab is the 1 oz. Dekuyper Island Blue Pucker ice and club soda until serving time. with their unique Nepalese cusine paired land of five rivers, and the number applies 2 oz. Bacardi Razz to the five elements/ingredients of what they with wines from around the world The thought constituted a legitimate punch. Of Sangria Rosada Layer the ingredients in order. This drink time is 7:00 p.m. The cost is $45 all course, the English brought the word and Pink sangria, one gallon has a red stripe at the bottom and the top, inclusive. because the grenadine sinks, but the Rum’s the concept to throne base back when the 5 liter box of Pink Wine higher alcohol content keeps it on top. It Friday, July 30 sun never set on the British Empire. 1 large Grapefruit Friday night flights at the Weinhaus will is neither shaken nor stirred! If you prefer I like to stick with the concept of San- 1 large Orange feature The Days of Wine and Rosés, an not to pucker, you can pour blue Curaçao gria. There are hundreds, probably thousands Juice of 1 Lemon exploration of dry summer Rosé wines. instead. of punch recipes, so go to the nearest church Juice of 1 Lime The price is $10 for a tasting and light ladies’ cookbook and add booze. Sangria, on Vodka hors d’ouvres. Time is 5:00-7:00 p.m. the other hand, has its general guidelines. Bomb Pop Cocktail Held at the Weinhaus. But, it can get expensive, especially in Combine the fruit juices and then add wine without grenadine the current economy. This is the perfect time until you have a gallon of liquid. You will have leftover wine. Add the vodka until you 1 oz. Chambord raspberry liqueur The Weinhaus to go for the jug and the box. (Box wine, 1 oz. Blue Curaçao 86 Patton Avenue in Asheville white and red, is God’s gift to those who vol- reach a taste you like. Remember that you can buy red and white and combine equal 1 oz. Lemon vodka (828) 254-6453 unteer, or get volunteered, to make Sangria.) 1 oz. Sour mix Good Sangria requires good fruit. A big mistake in making Sangria is spend- ing too much on pre-cut fruit. You really need to know how to slice and chop it on your own. If the knife scares you, go to the kitchen store and buy a cheap mandolin for Great values & styles twenty dollars. It will pay for itself before two batches, and slice the fruit thin so more FREE Wine Tastings on Saturdays flavors get combined in the mix. It is important to leave the ice out while from 2 to 5 p.m. the flavors blend, otherwise you will get Tasting wine is not only fun, but it presents a chance to learn about diluted sangria. Also, if you like soda water, wine and what it is about a particular wine that you like, or don't add it to your glass rather than the batch. like. You can sip while you shop. Find some new favorites — try Make an effort to discover your secret ingredient for a recipe you can call your it before you buy it. We will usually have a few whites and a few own. I love watermelon. For another ex- reds open, with the occassional guest speaker. Please stop by! ample, you can substitute brandy with rum. www.theAshevilleWineGuy.com With the following recipes, make simple common sense adjustments if you go with a Wine Retail ~ Tastings ~ Wine Classes 555 Merrimon Ave. different size jug or box. Great wines for any occasion and budget. (828) 254-6500

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 31 Another Great Summer Season RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE Wd WffWbWY^_Wd[l[d_d] fine art June 26 Balsam Range July 3 Paul’s Creek Band July 10 Lonesome River Band Chris Van Dyke July 17 Alice Gerrard and The Kari Sickenberger Band Rediscovering the Passion of Art July 24 Dismembered Tennesseans through Fine Jewelry July 31 Dehlia Low rom the start Chris Van Dyke wanted Aug. 7 The Kruger Brothers a downtown location for his art jew- BY DENNIS RAY Aug. 14 New North Carolina Ramblers elry store. He had moved here in the Aug. 21 Jeff Little Trio spring of 1999 but couldn’t find an integrity and letting his Aug. 28 The Farewell Drifters Favailable storefront downtown that suited creativity explode into him, but did find a “quaint and charming” his artwork like a dancer All concerts at 7:30 pm in our historic building in North Asheville on Merrimon air-conditioned auditorium catching flight. $15 adults, $5 students (k-12), children free. Avenue. That summer Van Dyke Gold- “My father said Season tickets (10 shows) $120 adults, $40 students (k-12) smithing opened, quickly establishing Van ‘Make every piece true.’ Come early and enjoy an authentic Appalachian dinner, Dyke as a leading jeweler in an area already I quickly came to realize served at 5:00 and 6:15 pm in our dining room. well known for its fine jewelry. that by ‘true’ he meant Reservations required. For Van Dyke success didn’t hap- ‘It’s got to get past me, pen overnight nor was it handed to him. pal.’ The highest standard He worked extremely hard for more than — something I continue Chris Van Dyke owner of Van Dyke 20 years to get to where he is. At 19 he to strive for with each of Jewelry and Fine Craft gallery. began his apprenticeship with his father, my pieces. Peer review 121 Schoolhouse Road Stecoah, NC an established goldsmith, in Bloomsburg, is the Everest I climb with each and (828) 479-3364 Pennsylvania. It was there he learned not every one of my designs.” StecoahValleyCenter.com only to make fine jewelry but about taking In his mid 20’s, like a character care of the customer and giving to them out of a Horatio Alger novel, Van the best possible service as well as product. Dyke left the safety of his father’s He learned about working hard and having business and headed west to find his own way. He settled in Phoenix where he worked for a small family owned jewelry shop doing repairs. It was there in the desert where he decided to attend the Gemological Institute of America. “I learned all about diamonds and colored stones, where they come from, how a modern European feel with its hardwood they are formed, the business behind them, floors and beige stone colored walls and and, most importantly, how to talk knowl- dark wooden display cabinets. There are edgeably about my craft. It gave me the over nine artists represented here, ranging chance to really know what I was putting in from ironwork, sculpture, pottery to tex- these pieces I was working so hard on.” tiles, and of course Van Dyke’s marvelous Shortly after moving to Asheville and line of jewelry. opening Van Dyke Goldsmithing he got Perhaps the success of his gallery is how married and had three sons. He watched all of the artist’s works compliment each his business grow in many “wonderful and other. “You can purchase a piece from each surprising” ways while he honed his artistic artist and they will all work well in your style. Yet something was amiss. Though the house,” he says. Like the gallery, the artwork business on Merrimon was successful, Van or fine craft is all elegant and stunning. Dyke never forgot his dream of being part of “I cannot imagine a better place to live downtown Asheville. and work than Asheville,” he says. “I miss my This spring he found the storefront he traveling days but that was a long time ago.” had invisioned when he first arrived. He As novelist Don Williams Jr. wrote, understood moving an established busi- “The road of life twists and turns and no ness could be dangerous, but sometimes two directions are ever the same. Yet our the needs of fulfilling a dream outweigh the lessons come from the journey, not the des- fears of any failure. Van Dyke listened to tination.” In the end Van Dyke has indeed his heart and on May 1, with a slight name found his way home. change to Van Dyke Jewelry and Fine Craft, moved his businesses to Biltmore Avenue. “I learned a lot on Merrimon,” he says. “I got a chance to meet great people, built Van Dyke Jewelry up a solid clientele, and I learned a million and Fine Craft different things. This gallery couldn’t have 29 Biltmore Ave. Located between happened 11 years ago. I needed the time Mast General Store and Doc Chey’s with to make it happen.” He laughs then adds, exclusive parking in the rear. “Over the years I’ve discovered many talent- (828) 281-4044 ed local artists whose work I now display.” www.vandykejewelry.com Van Dyke Jewelry and Fine Craft has

32 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art

The 63rd Annual Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands

or four days each July and October, BY APRIL NANCE Asheville’s Civic Center comes alive tional materials, forms, and with fine traditional tools, Hennigar creates his Fand contemporary crafts. own contemporary wood More than 200 craftspeople furniture. Throughout the fill the two levels of the Fair, creativity, talent and center selling their works innovation converge in this of clay, fiber, glass, leather, way. metal, mixed media, natu- The Fair focuses on ral materials, paper, wood the process of craft, often and jewelry. lost in a highly mecha- The Fairs, a local tradi- nized and digital world, the tion since 1948, showcase work of the hand – iron the work of members of the is hammered to become Southern Highland Craft a fireplace tool, splints of Guild. Having been accept- white oak are harvested ed into the Guild through a Alwin Wagener to become a basket. This rigorous jury process, these theme is reflected in the craftspeople are the best of the best in the scheduled demonstrations as well as the Appalachian region. Membership is open individual craft booths. Visitors interact to artists living in the mountain coun- with highly-trained craftspeople selling their ties of nine states work and sharing a bit about their process from Maryland to and inspiration. Alabama. The Fairs also feature craft demonstrations and, beginning on Friday, local musicians share their love of tradi- tional and bluegrass mountain music Chiwa live on the arena stage. Unlike any other fair, the Craft Fair of the South- Asheville Civic Center ern Highlands is an experience, a place Asheville provides the perfect back- to show off the tal- drop for the Craft Fair. Long known as an ent and innovation arts and crafts destination, Asheville offers of Guild members. architectural charm, eclectic restaurants and It is diverse: crafts a wide variety of lodging. As an organiza- rooted in Appa- tion, the Guild has been serving artists in lachian traditions this area since 1930. are featured along For a complete listing of exhibitors, Doug Dacey with the work of craft demonstrations, and entertainment contemporary art- schedule for the Craft Fair of the Southern ists, reinventing Highlands, visit www.craftguild.org. their medium to accommodate the modern world and IF The 63rd Annual Craft Fair to reflect their view of the Southern Highlands of it. A wonderful YOU at the Asheville Civic Center, example of this is GO 87 Haywood St. downtown the work of Co- Asheville. July 15-18 and lumbus, NC artist October 21-24, 2010 Derek Hennigar, Thursday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and whose rocker is fea- Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: Adults tured in this year’s $7, children under 12 free. Group discounts Craft Fair advertis- available. For more information visit www. Chery Cratty ing. Using tradi- craftguild.org or call (828) 298-7928.

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 33 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE culture for kids Engage the Kids with a Few Good Books This Summer

Loving Ruby in a tiny, cramped Bowen also provides some easy yoga poses she can be more than people expect. by author Lois Chazen apartment to mov- designed to help children find inner peace In fact, Suzie has championed the ing into a specially and tranquility. Kids will like Playing with causes of the handicapped all over West- Loving Ruby is an built and definitely Gaia…Discovering the Spirit of Mother ern North Carolina with the advent of her engaging and poetic more spacious home Earth for the easy wording and brightly non-profit organization, Suzie’s Closet tribute from writer Lois (and getting a new colored illustrations by Twila Jefferson. (www.suziescloset.com). Suzie’s Closet Chazen to the darling puppy) provided helps provide medical equipment, financial baby cardinal, Ruby, for them by all of the special volunteers at assistance with medical travel and building whom Chazen found abandoned Habitat for Humanity. Butterflies Don’t ramps for thousands of families in the area. in a local park and cared for until the bird This charming story is told from Allie’s Crawl She is truly an amazing butterfly! was an appropriate age where she could fly point of view and also includes special away and take care of herself. Chazen recalls by Angela and informational sections that kids and parents Suzie Tipton walking along and discovering the bird, alike can gain additional information, not The Purple Rain how it hopped away from her, and how she only about Habitat for Humanity, but about Butterflies Don’t in Zanzibar stopped traffic to save it and took it home homebuilding in general. A House for Crawl is a story that on by author Walter Rein with her to care for it. Wally and Me provides a great first look at the offset is about the Chazen takes her enchanted reader the benefits of volunteering in the commu- life of a clumsy little caterpillar who longs Kids (like my along the path of what to do if you find a nity and how volunteering can make a huge to fly beautiful in the sky with butterflies. 3-year-old son) will baby bird incapable of taking care of itself impact in someone’s life. While the clumsy caterpillar strives to be really appreciate The how to (hopefully) insure its health and all it can be…it is criticized by the but- Purple Rain in Zanzibar happiness…and ultimately how to let go of terflies for not being just like them and do because it is not unlike reading a good Dr. something you’ve come to love. Beautifully Playing with Gaia… Discovering what they can do. Still the caterpillar keeps Seuss book. It has wacky characters with illustrated by Sundara Fawn and written the Spirit of Mother Earth its chin up and goes on about its life…un- wacky character names and lines that rhyme in pleasantly rhyming lines, kids will love til one day it goes into a cocoon and then in a sing-songy manner that make them Loving Ruby for its creativity and its very by author Cindy Bowen emerges as what it has always wanted to incredibly easy and fun to read and remem- special message. Playing with Gaia… be…a butterfly, which can now join its ber. The illustrations by Jack Ferrell tie the Discovering the Spirit friends and sail on beautiful breezes. whole book together and make it easy for of Mother Earth is The story behind Butterflies Don’t kids (who can’t quite read yet) to look at the A House for Wally and Me an earthy book that Crawl is the inspirational tale of co-author pictures and tell YOU the story. The Purple by author Gene Stelten encourages children to Suzie Tipton’s life. Suzie has lived most of Rain in Zanzibar is a fun summer read for take a look around at her life with spastic quadriplegic cerebral parents and kids alike. A House for Wally and Me follows the world they live in and appre- palsy…and although doctors were grim Allie’s family of four as they go from living ciate the beauty that is there. Author Cindy about her prognosis… Suzie has shown that BOOK REVIEWS BY BETH GOSSETT... AND SON

man held up the cover of your video and Discovering the Clown showed a short clip, then he made a funny Tim “T-Bone” Arem, M.Ed. is the remark about it. Oh I said hum... I wonder producer and host of T-Bone’s Radio in All of Us if they should of contacted me first? Active Kids, http://j.mp/trakradio The next day I had lunch with my at- Tim is also artistic director of Asheville’s ave you ever wanted to become a teeth as this torney and three months later I was driving International Children's Film Festival, clown, run away and join the cir- new character, a sports car from the settlement. It turns www.aicff.org. For more information cus? You might be one step closer I was able to out the parent company World Wide Pants about Tim please visit www.tbonerun. with the re-release of T-Bone’s be in the circle should of asked my permission. My fifteen com, or call (828) 298-4789. World of Clowning. of folks like minutes of fame had crossed my path. HCreated by Asheville resident Tim “T- Kenny Rogers, This DVD has many stories that go Bone” Arem, radio host, creative director Henry Win- with it. In summary it took me 25 years to for the Asheville International Children’s kler, Danny change the format from video to DVD. This Film Festival, health & fitness educator, Devito, rock week T-Bone’s World of Clowning hits the Family Art pARTy! spokesperson, author and former Ronald musicians Don stores and the universe again. I wonder what Mc Donald for the LA region. Dokken and new adventures it will bring into my life. Sunday, July 11 from 1 to 4 p.m. After I retired from the MC Donalds Sammy Hagar, To purchase a copy visit, Ultimate Pack Square – FREE. Get crafty with spokesperson duties, I wanted to create my sports personalities, Bruce Jenner, and Ice Cream, The Toy Box, O.P Taylors, hands-on activities for all ages. All own character, said Arem. As a child grow- Lance Armstrong, to name a few. Once Upon a Time, Malaprops book Store supplies provided. For more infor- ing up my mom nick named me T-Bone The common thread with these per- Dancing Bear Toys and if you see me at mation, call Sharon McRorie at (828) and the name kind of stayed with me into sonalities was that my character T-Bone the hundred events I do in Asheville and 253-3227, ext. 122. my clowning adulhood. perform for their kids. So their kids grew up around the country I probably will have a So in 1985 I created a fun and educa- watching my clowning video. It was pretty few copies on me. The Big Crafty tional clown character named T-Bone that cool to hear comments from Henry Winkler Oh and by the way, T-Bone has Sunday, July 11 from 12 to 6 p.m. kids could relate to. It helped that I had “ My kids loved your video”. morphed into a health & fitness character. Pack Place and Pack Square an educational background with a masters As the video found it’s way into the I’ve dropped my Yak wig, clown shoes and degree in teaching K-6 grades universe, I got a call one day from a friend – FREE Admission. A lively celebra- make up but my mission is the same as it’s tion of handmade commerce. This Because of spending the majority of my in Hawaii. T-bone did you see yourself on always has been, to provide information, adulthood in Los Angeles and performing David Letterman? What do you mean I said, juried indie craft fair features 100 education and fun to the families I come in artists and crafters. For details visit at thousands of birthday parties to cut my I haven’t left the house. No he said Letter- contact with. www.thebigcrafty.com.

34 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS culture for kids JOSEPH RATHBONE RECOMMENDS

his month I will review The Ka- rate Kid and Prince of Persia: The BY JOSEPH RATHBONE, AGE 11 Sands of Time. The Karate Kid, a remake to that is when Dastan meets the 1984 film of the same name, princess Tamina (Gemma Tis, over-all, a very good movie and I give it Arterton) who is pro- four stars. It is rated PG for some language tecting the ancient dagger, a gift from the and violence. The movie starts out show- gods, that could release the sands of time. ing Dre Parker (Jaden Smith) saying good- After Dastan is accused of murdering his father, he decides to help princess Tamina protect the dagger and find the real killer. Pretty much the rest of the movie is about Dastan and Tamina being chased by Has- sansins (this is where the film becomes just another action flick) and them trying to save the dagger from falling into the wrong hands, which it does. At the end there is a very surprising twist that some of you might see coming and others won’t. I rec- ommend this movie for teenag- ers and adults. Jaden Smith as Dre Parker in The Karate Kid. bye to his friends while preparing to move to China with his mother (Taraji P. Henson). When he arrives in China, he quickly makes a new friend, Mei Ying; she is from a strict traditional upper- class family. Dre “meets” Cheng and his gang, the local bullies, shortly after Mei befriends him. But Cheng is not happy with this and beats Dre up. These beatings continue until finally Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) agrees to train Dre in the art of real Kung Fu. Mr. Han and Cheng’s kung fu teacher agree to have Ching and his gang Jake Gyllenhall in Prince of Persia, leave Dre alone until the big the Sands of Time. tournament. The rest of the movie is I would like to thank Beaucatcher Cinemas about Dre training with Mr. for allowing me to review these movies. Han for the tournament and at Beaucatcher Cinemas has seven theatres the end Dre fights in the tourna- and is located at Tunnel Road and I-240 ment. I’m not going to give away in Asheville (321 Haw Creek Lane), the ending so you’ll have to see the phone 298-1234. All shows before movie to find out. Sadly, I have not seen 6 p.m. are at bargain price. the original Karate Kid movie from 1984 but I have heard it was good too. I highly recommend for anybody to see this movie. Prince of Persia, the Sands of Time is a good movie with a twisty plot, good action and stunts and I give it three and a half-stars. SPITFIRE - OPEN MIC It is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action. Dastan (Jake Gyllenhall) From poets to punk rockers... circus acts to scientists... calling all youth! Stand up and is the main character that in the beginning be heard as Spitfire continues it’s monthly was adopted by the King of Persia and was celebration of free self expression. raised along side the king’s two sons. The ancient city of Alamut was al- IF YOU GO: From 2 to 4 p.m. lied to Persia and was framed for selling Saturday, July 3 at Pritchard Park, FREE. All forms of self expression weapons to the enemy. So Dastan and his welcome. Anyone under 19 two brothers invade the city of Alamut and encouraged to perform. Coupon code: SSB-10%-JULY Coupon code: SSB-20%-JULY

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 35 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™

Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday and may be purchased online at www. Fleta Monaghan exhibit folkmootusa.org or by calling the Folk- Concerts at Special Film Screening: Chuck Close moot ticket office at (828) 452-2997. The show entitled “Six Months Plus” St. Matthias Church features recent work in oils, encaustic Chuck Close Film Screening, Saturday, July 24 and mixed Thursday, July 8, at 7 p.m. at the Concerts start at 3 p.m. unless Low-Cost Shot Clinic otherwise noted. media. On Fine Arts Theatre. display at 310 Animal Compassion Network (ACN), Sunday, July 4 – Baroque music ART Gallery This is the 2007 expanded version of the 1997 documentary (of the the largest safe-for-life, non-profit, featuring strings with organ and until July 31, animal welfare organization in WNC, recorder. It will include music by 2010. The gal- same name) by filmmaker Marion Cajori. This feature-length film will host a low-cost rabies, vaccine Stanley, Handel, Marcello, and lery is located and microchip clinic from 11 a.m to Vivaldi. This will be part of the in the River follows Chuck Close as he paints a self-portrait and interviews many of 3 p.m. Protect your pet against rabies First Sunday Classical Chamber Arts District and other deadly diseases with low- Music Series. at Riverview his friends, including artists Robert Rauschenberg and Alex Katz, and cost vaccinations and medical services Station, 191 provided by Dr. Boatright. Sunday, July 11 – Joe Mambo Lyman Street features music by Philip Glass. Afro-Cuban Jazz ensemble will in Asheville. Open from 9:30 a.m. to Presented by the Asheville Art Rabies (1 or 3 year) $10; DHLPP or perform. This will be part of the 3:30 p.m. and most weekdays. Call Museum and held in conjunction 3227 for advance tickets or purchase DHPP $15; Bordatella $15; FVRCP/ Second Sunday Jazz Series. (828) 776-2716. with the exhibition Limners to them at the Fine Arts Theatre Box FELV $20; Microchip with lifetime Office at the screening. registration $18. At Pet Harmony, Sunday, July 18 – Soprano Facebook: Portraiture from the 19th Amanda Horton will present a Saturday, July 3 to the 21st Century. ACN’s adoption center and retail store, Asheville Art Museum, 2 South Pack 803 Fairview Street, less than a half- recital of arias. Auditions for Twelfth Night $8 Members/Seniors/Students, $10 Square. Call (828) 253-3227 or visit mile south of the I-40 off ramp and General Admission. Call (828) 253- www.ashevilleart.org. Sunday, July 25 – The The Montford Park Players, North just off Hendersonville Rd. For more Clearwater Connection singing Carolina’s Longest Running Shake- information call (828) 274-3647 or visit duo will present a concert of speare Festival, will hold auditions for www.animalcompassionnetwork.org. popular standard songs. Shakespeare’s comedy Twelfth Night. Friday, July 9 ful thoughts. Everyone welcome! Led We are looking for Renaissance musi- The Alison by Meg MacLeod, Certified Facilitator Monday, July 26 A free-will offering will be taken cians (harp, recorder, violin, etc) to Brown of The Work. From 2 to 4:30 p.m. at Free Mystic Heart Universe for the restoration of the beauti- form an ensemble. From 3 to 6 p.m. at 62 Courtland Ave., Asheville, NC. $15 Meditation Teleconference Call ful and historic church. St. Mat- the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre, 100 Quartet to $25 each session, sliding scale. (828) thias’ Church is over 100 years Gay St. in Asheville. For more infor- Sophisticated 279-6466 or [email protected]. This month’s call is from 8 to 9 p.m. old and is on the national historic mation call (828) 254-5146, visit www. bluegrass/jazz www.thework.com. est. Join us and celebrate the mystical register. The church is located in montfordparkplayers.org, or email concert is part union of our outer divine conscious- Asheville just off South Charlotte [email protected]. of the 2010 Tuesday, July 13 ness and our inner mystical heart, Street at Max Street on the hill Summer at Piano for Fun which creates the marriage uniting across from the Asheville Public the Wortham the human and the divine, heaven and Works Building (1 Dundee St.). Series. Diana The Asheville earth, the Mystic Universe. Music School How to place an event/ Wortham Photo: David McClister You are invited to deepen your Theatre at is proud to an- classified listing with nounce a new conscious awareness of your oneness Bill Walz will hold Satsang. Explore Pack Place. 8 p.m. Regular $30; Senior with the God-Presence that lives and an afternoon of deep meditation, $28; Student $25; Child: $12; Student kind of music Rapid River Arts & class geared towards adults. Piano For breathes each of us. trans-egoic psychology and personal Culture Magazine Rush day-of-the-show (with valid consciousness evolution while opening I.D.) $10. Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 Fun classes are small group classes To sign up for the meditation contact where the emphasis is on learning to Mary & Barry at (828) 338-0042 or into the discovery of your deepest and Any “free” event open to the public or online at www.dwtheatre.com. wisest self. can be listed at no charge up to 30 make music in a more relaxed way visit www.MysticHeartUniverse.com. words. For all other events there is July 9 – August 1 compared to what is usually taught Get beyond the trouble-making aspects in more rigorous traditional piano Through July 28 of ego as you discover and live your a $9.95 charge up to 30 words and HART presents 10 cents for each additional word. lessons. Deborah Belcher, a nationally Fred Feldman Exhibit potential. The afternoon will begin CHICAGO the Musical known piano clinician, performer and with Gentle Yoga warm-up for persons 160 word limit per event. At Studio 103 Fine Art Gallery, 103 Based on a play of the same name by educator will be leading these group of all ages and levels of yoga experience Sponsored listings (shown in adventures into the joys of music West St. in Black Mountain. Exhibit boxes) can be purchased for $12 reporter Maurine Dallas Watkins, who with Kirsten Walz, RYT. More details making. These weekly classes are 50 runs through July 28. Whimiscal and at (828) 258-3241, www.billwalz.com per column inch. Deadline is the had been assigned to cover the 1924 fun, rescued wood sculptures that play trials of murderesses Beulah Annan minutes long and meet for eight weeks 19th of each month. Payment at a time. The first series of classes will and tell time. From 2 to 5 p.m. at the Asheville must be made prior to printing. and Belva Gaertner for the Chicago Friends Meeting House, 227 Edge- Tribune. begin at 10 a.m. and will be taught at Email Beth Gossett at: the Asheville Music School’s West wood, off Merrimon. Suggested dona- [email protected] Performances July 9, 10 15, 16, 17, 22, location, 1408 Patton Ave. tion $10-$20. Or mail to: 85 N. Main St, Can- 23, 24, 30, 31 at 7:30 and July 11, 18, ton, NC 28716. Call (828) 646- 25 and August 1 at 3 p.m. Tickets are For more information or to register August 7 & 8 0071 to place ad over the phone. $22 for Adults, $20 for Seniors, Stu- for the class, call the Asheville Music 38th Annual School, (828) 252-8861, or visit www. dent/child $10 with special $5 discount Village Art – Disclaimer – tickets for Students for Thursday and ashevillemusicschool.com. Asheville Due to the overwhelming number of Sunday performances. Box Office Music School, 250 Charlotte St., Ashe- and Craft Fair local event submissions we get for our Hours are Monday-Saturday 1-5 p.m. ville Music School West, 1408 Patton This high quality “What to Do Guide” each month, we Ave., (828) 252-1888. Feldman includes awesome speakers Call (828) 456-6322 for reservations in his sculptures that any music phobe craft fair, sponsored can no longer accept entries that do not or visit www.harttheatre.com. All by New Morning specifically follow our publication’s July 22 – August 1 would die to have. Call (828) 357-8327 performances are at the Performing or visit www.studio103fineartgallery. Gallery and Bel- format. Non-paid event listings must Arts Center at the Shelton House, 250 Folkmoot USA lagio, takes place on be 30 words or less and both paid and com for details. Pigeon St. Waynesville, NC. A two week festival in eleven coun- the grounds of the non-paid listings must provide infor- Cathedral of All Souls in Historic Bilt- mation in the following format: date, ties across Western North Carolina, Saturday, July 31 Sundays, July 11 & 18 more Village. Fair hours are Saturday time, brief description of what your features performances, parades and Summer Satsang with Bill Walz event is and any contact information. The Work of Byron Katie workshops by more than 350 perform- 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday noon to Any entries not following this format ers from about ten countries celebrat- Asheville consciousness columnist 6 p.m., rain or shine. Free admission. Learn simple, interactive inquiry to and teacher and UNCA meditation Concessions available. For more infor- will not be considered for publication. find freedom and kindness with stress- ing culture heritage through dance and music. Tickets are on sale now and personal consciousness teacher mation call (828) 274-2831.

JULY EVENTS ~ ANNOUNCEMENTS ~ CLASSIFIEDS

36 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™

Laugh Your Asheville Justin West at Woolworth Walk’s FW Front Gallery Art Classes for Adults this July Off Comedy Festival Justin West will be showcasing his new works in the exhibit “Weathered Mixed Media/Collage, 6 weeks starts July 8 from and Feathered.” Justin is a self- taught artist whose approach to his work 1:30-4:30 p.m., beginner and up, $200. Elizabeth July 13-17 is playful, soulful, and intuitive. The subjects of his paintings range from Lasley instructor The annual festival is anchored purely aesthetical to richly symbolic, from dark to light, from simple to by HBO and Comedy Central Drawing, 6 weeks starts July 7. Beginning 9:30- chaotic. He paints on surfaces beyond the canvas including jars, flasks, 12:30. Intermediate/Advanced 1:30-4:30. $200. veteran Jake Johannsen. The glass, and wood. Through his artwork Justin aims to explore and solidify three-day event showcases more Scratchboard 2-Day Workshop for beginners and the many nuances of his experiences. Come meet artist Justin West at the up, July 23 and 24 from 10-3 p.m. $150 plus $10 than 40 stand-up comedians. For opening reception Friday, July 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. more information visit www. materials fee. Lorelle Bacon instructor. laughyourashevilleoff.com, call On display through July 30, 2010 at Woolworth Walk, 25 Haywood Street Landscape Painting. Fridays, July 9, 16, and 23 the box office at (828) 257-4530, in Asheville. Phone (828) 254-9234. Gallery Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 from 10-1 p.m. On location, any media. $45 per or visit the Pack Place Box Of- to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 to 7 p.m.; Sunday 11 to 5 p.m. class or register for all three classes for $115. Fleta fice in person. Monaghan instructor. River’s Edge Studio • 191 Lyman Street, Asheville (828) 776-2716 • [email protected] Liturgical Artists to Best in Show by Phil Juliano www.fletamonaghan.com Develop Talents August 22-27, 2010 Summer Music in Flat Rock Beginning and experienced weav- ers, photographers, choir singers Saturday, July 3 – Dana and and directors, quilters and needle Susan Robinson will perform workers will gather at Kanuga a free concert in Flat Rock Conferences for the 13th Annual beginning at 6 p.m. Dana and Liturgical Arts Conference. Stu- Susan are two guitar-playing, dents will attend hands-on classes banjo-frailing, fiddle-sawing, and in the morning, concentrating on harmony-singing interpreters of one of seven areas: by Amy Downs the American experience. Callie & Cats Scheduled concerts for the re- • Canvaswork Sampler taught by mainder of the season include: August 7 - Sally Bar- Sally Boom of Montrose, Ala. ris, September 4 - The Swayback Sisters, October 2 • Worship for Singers and Choir - Peace Out. This is a casual, family oriented, bring- Directors taught by Chris Brayne your-lawn-chair outdoor event, weather permitting. of Charlotte, N.C. Food and beverages will be available from Flat Rock • Sewing Church Linens taught Village Bakery and Hubba Hubba Smokehouse. by Pat Crane of Wethersfield, Concerts are held in Flat Rock on Little Rainbow Conn. Row’s back deck (behind the colorful shops, corner • Quilted Stoles, Vestments and of Greenville Highway and West Blue Ridge Road) Altar Paraments taught by Pamela from 6 to 8 p.m. For further information, call Hand Hardiman of Farmington, Conn. in Hand Gallery at (828) 697-7719 or visit www. flatrockonline.com. • Blackwork Celtic Knot taught by Marion Scoular of Duluth, Ga. • Images of Spirituality taught by Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins Robin Smith of Columbia, S.C. Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands • An Introduction to Weaving July 15-18 at the Asheville Civic Center, 87 Hay- taught by Jane Stickney of Hig- wood St. downtown Asheville. Thursday – Saturday ganum, Conn. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admis- Instructors will offer optional sion: Adults $7, children under 12 free. Visit www. afternoon workshops on topics craftguild.org or call (828) 298-7928 for details. including canvas painting, flower arranging, color for liturgical design, reversible embroidery on a bookmark and community Haywood Community Band Concert weaving on a traveling loom. Sunday, July 18 – The Haywood Community Daily worship services will be Band will present a free concert beginning at 6:30 lead by the Rev. Robert Childers, Dragin by Michael Cole p.m. at the pavilion next to the Maggie Valley rector of Church of the Good Town Hall. The theme for this concert will include Shepherd located in Lookout patriotic melodies. In addition, the band will also Mountain, Tennesee. play an original composition, Pickett’s Charge, Affiliated with the Episcopal written by band member Mike McDonald and Church since 1928, Kanuga is commemorating a major Civil War battle which a 1,400-acre retreat center near took place July 3, 1863. Bring a picnic dinner and Hendersonville, NC. Group dis- enjoy a beautiful sunset as the band plays on. counts or financial aid is available. Visit www.haywoodcommunityband.org for more For more information, visit www. information, or call John Barrett at (828) 452-5553, kanuga.org or call (828) 692-9136. or Bob Hill at (828) 452-7530.

CLASSES ~ LECTURES ~ ARTS & CRAFTS ~ READINGS

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 37 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE noteworthy

Haywood County Arts Council Presents the 25th Annual International Festival Day

nternational Festival Day is the highlight of regional BY KAY S. MILLER performances by international folk dancers and musi- cians from Folkmoot USA, North Carolina’s Official International Festival which takes place from July 22- In the Passport to the Arts August 1, 2010. children’s area sponsored by Unit- I On Saturday, July 31 Waynesville’s Main Street is trans- ed Community Bank, children are formed into a world bazaar where more than one hundred issued a “passport” and “travel” to artists, craftsmen, and international guests sell all forms countries like Russia, , Latvia, of art and craft. Art lovers can browse booths filled with United Kingdom, France, Switzer- handcrafted items and even catch a demonstration or two by land, Jordan, Portugal and Poland, artisans including flame workers, potters, and woodworkers. creating Indian twirling palm pup- From Russian nesting dolls to Seagrove pottery, traditional pets, Kufi hats, and other one-of-a-kind crafts to take home. Appalachian baskets, and Guatemalan carvings from veg- Festival entertainment will be provided by Folkmoot USA’s etable ivory, art lovers will find international dancers and musicians, Voices in the Laurel treasures at every stop. Children’s Chorus, and students from the Haywood County The international theme Arts Council’s Junior Appalachian Musicians program. of the day continues at opposite Rapid River Magazine Encourages ends of Main Street where food courts feature a wide variety of IF The Haywood County Arts Council presents You to Support Our Advertisers choices including Gyros, Asian YOU the 25th Annual International Festival Buying local helps keep money in the neighborhood. spring rolls, Crepes, Beignets, GO Day Saturday, July 31 from 10 a.m. until 5 Caribbean Shawarmas, Fajitas, p.m. in downtown Waynesville. For more For every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $45 and — a North Carolina staple information visit www.haywoodarts.org or call goes back into the community. Local businesses are — pulled pork barbeque. the Haywood County Arts Council at (828) 452-0593. owned by people who are invested in our future.

NORTH INTERNATIONAL CAROLINA’S FESTIVAL July 22-Aug. 1, 2010 presented by

Eleven Days of World Music & Dance Performers from: Russia, Latvia, United Kingdom (Irish), Peru, France, Switzerland, Jordan, Poland and Portugal*

Tickets & Information 877.FolkUSA | www.folkmootusa.org *Subject to change

38 July 2010 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 13, No. 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE healthy lifestyles

Did You Get Your Vaccinations? BY MAX HAMMONDS, MD nyone who travels regularly overseas know that one can develop severe chronic pain in the same area that may needs to keep a shot record. Those who work in the take months or years to go away. This vaccine does not health care industry also need an up-to-date shot re- totally prevent this. It is about 50-60% effective. However cord. Who else in the adult world needs to keep their the devastation of post-herpetic neuralgia (nerve pain) is so A vaccinations up-to-date? Those over 55. severe that a one-time shot seems like a good idea. What? I thought immunizations are for kids? There are other vaccines that should be considered in There are two vulnerable age groups who need to be those over 55 including: measles, mumps and rubella vac- protected against the harmful microbes that inhabit our cine, meningitis vaccine, polio vaccine, and hepatitis vaccine. world: those who have yet to develop immunity (those un- For more information on whether you or any older person der 10 years old) and those whose immunity is wearing out that you care for should be receiving any of these immuniza- (those over 55 who have decreased resistance or increased tions, check with your doctor or check out the now familiar ill-health). While the under 10 group have their mothers to websites of WebMD or the CDC. check on them, the over 55 group have to rely on the health An ounce of prevention… care providers to keep them up-to-date and protected. So what immunizations do older people need to consider? 1. The influenza vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone over 6 months of age get the flu vaccine this year. It contains the H1N1 strain along with the other strains, so there’s no reason to get two shots this year. Those who have chronic illness and those who are traveling abroad (it is an international disease) should be vaccinated early. 2. Tetanus. The tetanus microbe is in the soil and on every object everywhere. People are exposed to it constantly. So why the immunization? An excessive exposure in a cut or wound can overwhelm a weak immune system. Therefore, the immune system needs to be updated every 10 years with a new immunization. This immunization is usually given with diphtheria and pertussis vaccines. Anyone under 65 who is exposed to infants under one year should have their pertussis (whooping cough) updated as well. 3. Pneumococcal pneumonia. In this day of antibiotics, people don’t expect pneumonia to be fatal. The fact is: Pneu- monia is the nation’s leading cause of vaccine-preventable illness and death. The pneumonia caused by the pneumo- coccal bacteria is especially virulent in the over 65 age group and in those with long-standing health problems, transplant patients, and those without a spleen. They all should receive the PPSV vaccine one time and have it repeated once after age 65. 4. Chicken Pox. There is a long standing maxim in medicine AFFORDABLE, FLEXIBLE health insurance. that says that children’s diseases are mild in children and NO, REALLY. devastating in adults. Chicken pox is one of those diseases How can HumanaOne help you? that can have severe side effects when it happens in older adults. Health care workers, military personnel and inter- Short term GET A FREE QUOTE national travelers especially need this immunization unless INDIVIDUAL plans are IN MINUTES a blood test can confirm that they have had the disease and PLANS AS LOW available too! already have immunity. Call Center Hours AS M-Th 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. EST 5. Shingles. It’s chicken pox again! This time in those who Fri 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. EST have already had the disease. Herpes zoster is a recurrence or $78 Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. EST flair up of the chicken pox virus in the nerve bodies of those who had the disease years ago. While the skin rash and initial Is this you? pain can clear up in 3-6 weeks, 60% of those with shingles • Self-employed • Early retiree • Losing benefits at work Advertise with 1-888-691-9689 Rapid River Magazine *Male, 39, NS, Chicago 60605, Monogram. Rates vary by age, location and plan selection. All applications are subject to underwriting approval. Waiting periods, limitations and exclusions may apply. Insured by Humana Insurance Company, Humana Health Plan, Inc., Humana Health Insurance Company of Florida, Inc., Humana Employers Health Plan (828) 646-0071 of Georgia, Inc. and Humana Insurance Company or Humana Health Benefit Plan of Louisiana, Inc. For AZ residents: Insured by Humana Insurance Company. Short Term Medical plans are Free web links • Free ad design • Easy monthly billing not renewable, do not cover pre-existing conditions, and refunds are not available (varies www.rapidrivermagazine.com by state). GCA07A2HH_A

Vol. 13, No. 11 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — July 2010 39